What is the effect of improper tongue weight?

Improper tongue weight can significantly influence the handling of a trailer while being towed. When the weight distribution at the hitch is not adequate—meaning it's either too heavy or too light—it can lead to swaying of the trailer, especially at higher speeds or during maneuvers. The ideal tongue weight should be approximately 10% to 15% of the total trailer weight, allowing for stability during travel. If the tongue weight is too light, the trailer can become unstable, causing the trailer to sway from side to side, which can be dangerous and lead to loss of control.

The other effects mentioned, such as the trailer remaining stationary, the coupler disconnecting, or an uneven load distribution, could happen under specific circumstances but are not the direct result of improper tongue weight in the same manner as swaying is. Swaying presents a direct link to the safety and stability concerns when towing a trailer.