Here is some more helpful info on wdh. Keep in mind this thread is extremely old so follow the curt instructions. This thread is more designed to help you understand the wdh concepts.
how a wdh works
Another way to set up a hitch involves hitting the scales. I have found this method to be foolproof as well as helpful in knowing exactly where you are on weights. Go to your local truck scales (
catscale.com) to find a location near you. Weigh with a full tank of fuel and your trailer loaded to camp. You will want to get 3 passes in any order:
1st weigh: just truck no trailer. Front axle on scale pad #1, rear axle on scale pad number 2.
2nd weigh: truck plus trailer no wdh. Truck axles the same as 1st weigh. Both tt axles on scale pad #3.
3rd weigh: truck plus trailer with wdh hooked up. Axles the same places as 2nd weigh.
What this tells you:
Truck gcwr - scaled truck weight = adjusted towing capacity.
Truck gvwr - scaled truck weight = available payload
Truck grawr - scaled rear axle weight = how much weight you can add to that axle.
Total weight of 2nd weigh - total weight of 1st weigh = total loaded weight of your trailer.
Combined steer and drive axle weights of 2nd weigh - total weight of 1st weigh = loaded tongue weight.
Now compare your 1st and 3rd weighs. The idea of a wdh is to help spread the tongue weight of the trailer out. It will transfer some weight to the front axle and some weight back to the trailer. Your goal is to return your front axle to as close to unloaded weight as possible without going heavier. Repeat your 3rd weigh as many times as necessary after adjustments to achieve this. We used to take the tools with us, unhitch out of the way at the truck stop, make the adjustments, hook up and go weigh again.
Catscales are typically $9-12 for first weigh and $1-3 for each additional weigh in a 24 hour period at the same scale. Unless you are really tall, you will want to bring a broom handle or something to hit the scale buzzer as it sits at driver height for tractor trailers. You will be asked for your truck number, just tell them private vehicle. If they say they still need a number, just say your favorite number.