Chapter 3 - Use Of Your Folding Camping Trailer; Equipment; Tow Vehicle; Hitches - Jayco Eagle Owner's Manual

USE OF YOUR FOLDING CAMPING TRAILER
In this chapter you will find helpful information to assist you in preparing, traveling and
using your folding camping trailer.

EQUIPMENT

Tow Vehicle

Begin your camping experiences by using a tow vehicle that will adequately transport
your folding camping trailer to and from your destinations. You must use the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) factor as a measuring tool to cross match the capability
of your selected tow vehicle. Ford, Chrysler and Chevrolet provide trailer towing guides
for their products, as do most auto and truck manufacturers. Ask your local automotive
dealer for a copy or contact the factory's direct lines for information. Many tow vehicles,
including mini-vans, have special towing package options available for folding camping
trailers. Tow vehicles with long wheel bases, such as Explorers, Broncos or Blazers,
perform better than tow vehicles with short wheel bases. The condition of the suspension
system in your tow vehicle is also an important factor. Make sure your tow vehicle is in
good mechanical condition and maintenance is up to date.

Hitches

After choosing your tow vehicle, it is very important to install a hitch system with weight
distributing bars to accommodate your coach. This weight selection and installation
should be performed by a professional hitch service which may or may not be your
selling dealer.
Class II or III hitches are suggested. With the Class III, 350# equalizing bars can be used
if installed correctly with the surge brakes. The very equipment which sometimes gives
autos, trucks and sport utility vehicles a softer ride can accentuate swaying when pulling
a trailer. Conversely, too stiff a suspension can increase vibration, bounce and accelerate
wear of your tow vehicle and trailer. It is important that your trailer be level when hitched
to your tow vehicle. Educate yourself to protect you, your family and other motorists. An
anti-sway device may be needed with some tow vehicle/trailer combinations. Short wheel
bases on tow vehicles can contribute to sway.
CAUTIONS:
• Using an oversized or undersized hitch can cause damage to the frame of your
folding camping trailer.
• Jayco, Inc. cannot be responsible for the suspension system of the tow vehicle. The
final ball height after the coach is completely hooked up is a factor to be consid-
ered when towing a trailer. To avoid overloading your RV axles and minimize
possible handling difficulties, your RV should tow level when hooked to your tow
vehicle.
• Do not overload your tow vehicle
CHAPTER 3
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