2002 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 277

Starting and operating Gross Axle Weight Certification plate HS0144 HS0143 To check both GVWR and GAWR and to confirm that the total weight and weight distribution are within safe driving limits, you should have your vehicle and trailer weighed at a commercial weighing station. Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to prevent a change in weight distribution while driving. n Tongue load WARNING If the trailer is loaded with more weight in the back of trailer's axle than in the front, the load is taken off the rear axle of the towing vehicle. This may cause the rear wheels to skid, especially during braking or when vehicle speed is reduced during cornering, resulting in over-steer, spin out and/or jackknifing. Ensure that the trailer tongue load is from 8 to 11 percent of the total trailer weight and does not exceed the maximum value of 200 lbs (90 kg). 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. - CONTINUED - 8-25