1999 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 234

Starting and operating The tongue load can be weighed with a bathroom scale as shown in the illustration below. When weighing the tongue load, be sure to position the towing coupler at the height at which it would be during actual towing, using a jack as shown. Tongue load Bathroom scale Jack OM-H2785 HS0145 The tongue load can be adjusted by proper distribution of the load in the trailer. Never load the trailer with more weight in the back than in the front; approximately 60 percent of the trailer load should be in the front and approximately 40 percent in the rear. Also, distribute the load as evenly as possible on both the left and right sides. Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to prevent a change in weight distribution while driving. OM-H2787 - CONTINUED - 7-49