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Section 3: Pre-Travel Information
The rear bumper of your RV is not designed to carry cargo. Items that extend beyond the
bumper OR weigh over 100 lbs. (45kg) will place undo strain on the bumper. The 100 lb.
bumper capacity includes the weight of the spare tire (if so equipped).
NOTE: Some items may fall within the given weight range, (IE: bike
racks) however, they can still cause damage. In addition, extra weight
behind the axle may reduce the hitch weight which can adversely affect
handling.
Travel Trailer Hitch (customer supplied)
Hitch selection affects the towing and handling characteristics of your recreation vehicle.
There are many kinds of hitches available and assuring that you have the correct hitch in-
stalled is critical to a safe towing.
Ask your dealer about the proper class and type of hitch you need for your individual tow
vehicle/RV combination. A travel trailer requires a frame mounted hitch.
The hitch class rating based on the capacity that hitch has for towing and a weight classifica-
tion. The weight classification is determined from the hitch's weight carrying capacity (the
tongue weight on a travel trailer). Before selecting a hitch, you must know your GVWR and
tongue weight. The rating of the hitch package purchased should be equal to or greater
than the RV's GVWR and the hitch weight.
Using an oversized or undersized hitch can cause damage to the RV frame. We
(as your RV manufacturer) cannot be responsible for the tow vehicle suspen-
sion system. The final ball height after the tow vehicle/travel trailer combina-
tion is completely hooked up is a factor that must be considered. To avoid
overloading your trailer axles and minimize possible handling difficulties,
your trailer should be level when hooked to your tow vehicle. Do not overload
your tow vehicle.
Equipment that sometimes gives autos, trucks and sport utility vehicles a softer ride can
accentuate swaying when pulling a RV. Suspension that is too stiff will increase vibration,
bounce and accelerate wear of your tow vehicle and RV combination.
Your recreation vehicle manufacturer cannot be responsible for the suspension system
of any tow vehicle. There are a variety of tow vehicle suspension systems available that
will affect the ball height, stability and levelness of a hooked up RV. Make sure your
dealer is aware of the tow vehicle you are using so a compatible hookup is achieved.
Travel Trailer Hitch Weight
Maintain the proper tongue weight of the trailer. Stay within the target range of 10%-15% of
the overall gross weight (travel trailer weight plus contents).
Travel Trailer Hitch Height and Hitch Ball
To determine the hitch height for your model, make sure that the trailer is level. When the
loaded RV is hitched to the tow vehicle, check the hitch ball height. This can be determined
by measuring the distance from the center of the hitch ball to the ground. Record this number
in the box for future reference.
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Maintenance Record
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