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not exceed either front or rear GAWR. Refer to
"Vehicle Loading/Vehicle Certification Label" in
"Starting and Operating" for further information.
WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the
maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous
driving condition can result if either rating is
exceeded. You could lose control of the
vehicle and have a collision.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The tongue weight is the downward force ex-
erted on the hitch ball by the trailer. The recom-
mended tongue weight is 10% to 15% for a
conventional hitch. You must consider this as
part of the load on your vehicle.
Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multi-
plied by the maximum width of the front of a
trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The trailer sway control can be a mechanical
telescoping link that can be installed between
234
the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue that
typically provides adjustable friction associated
with the telescoping motion to dampen any
unwanted trailer swaying motions while travel-
ing.
If equipped, the electronic Trailer Sway Control
(TSC) recognizes a swaying trailer and auto-
matically applies individual wheel brakes and/or
reduces engine power to attempt to eliminate
the trailer sway.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer
tongue weight, just as if it were luggage located
at a hitch ball or some other connecting point of
the vehicle. These kinds of hitches are the most
popular on the market today and they are
commonly used to tow small and medium sized
trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing system works by applying
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are
typically used for heavier loads to distribute
trailer tongue weight to the tow vehicle's front
axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in ac-
cordance with the manufacturer's directions, it
provides for a more level ride, offering more
consistent steering and brake control thereby
enhancing towing safety. The addition of a
friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens
sway caused by traffic and crosswinds and
contributes positively to tow vehicle and trailer
stability. Trailer sway control and a weight dis-
tributing (load equalizing) hitch are recom-
mended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW) and
may be required depending on vehicle and
trailer configuration/loading to comply with
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) require-
ments.
WARNING!
• An improperly adjusted Weight Distributing
Hitch system may reduce handling, stabil-
ity, braking performance, and could result
in a collision.
• Weight Distributing Systems may not be
compatible with Surge Brake Couplers.
Consult with your hitch and trailer manu-
facturer or a reputable Recreational Ve-
hicle dealer for additional information.
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