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

CHAPTER 3
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-Daimler 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 customer assistance for
information. Most tow vehicles have towing packages available as an option and these
should be given serious consideration. Tow vehicles with longer wheel bases perform
better and are more stable than short wheel bases, such as those on most SUV's. The
condition of the suspension system in your tow vehicle is also important and will affect
your trailer's handling. Become familiar with and understand how to properly distribute
loads in your trailer and tow vehicle and never overload either unit. Make sure your tow
vehicle is in good mechanical condition and maintenance is up to date. When you tow a
RV, you must drive differently than you do when driving a single vehicle. Practice
hooking up, driving, backing up and braking in a safe environment (with vehicles fully
loaded as if for normal travel is possible) or seek out professional instruction. Obey all
posted speed limits. Be prepared to drive slower and if you must pass, do so with utmost
care, particularly in strong winds. When being passed by or when passing semi-trailers or
large buses, be prepared for displaced air, as it can be severe enough to cause trailer
sway. Understand how trailer brakes, tow vehicle brakes, acceleration can affect your
control of the trailer when you experience trailer sway as well as proper hitches and sway
controls.
There are many excellent publications about traveling with a RV. We strongly recom-
mend you make use of available resources at your local library, the internet or bookstore.

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 combina-
tions. Short wheel bases on tow vehicles can contribute to sway.
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