Maryland Boating Certification Practice Exam

What percent should the tongue weight be compared to the combined weight of the trailer and vessel?

1. 5%

2. 10%

3. 15%

4. 20%

The correct answer is: 10%

The correct percentage for tongue weight, which is the downward force that the tongue of the trailer exerts on the hitch of the towing vehicle, should ideally be about 10% of the combined weight of the trailer and vessel. This guideline ensures safe towing and stability on the road. Proper tongue weight helps prevent trailer sway and improves handling, contributing to overall safety when transporting a boat. A tongue weight that is around 10% ensures that the load is evenly balanced between the trailer and the tow vehicle. If the tongue weight is too low, it can lead to the trailer swaying or fishtailing, creating a hazardous driving situation. Conversely, if it is too high, it can cause excessive downward force on the tow vehicle's rear axle, negatively affecting steering and braking. The values of 5%, 15%, and 20% are outside the recommended range for most standard boat trailers, either providing insufficient stability or excessive load on the hitch, leading to potential towing difficulties and safety hazards. Thus, maintaining the tongue weight around 10% is critical for effective and safe towing practices.