Trailer Towing & Driving Tips - Airstream 2012 INTERSTATE Owner's Manual

DRIvING
TRAILER TOWING AND DRIVING TIPS
(Some text is partial excerpts from Sprinter Operators Manual)
Warning
: Failure to use proper equipment and driving tech-
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nique can result in a loss of vehicle control when towing a trailer. Improper
towing or failure to follow the instructions contained in this section can
result in serious injury. Follow the guidelines below carefully to assure
safe trailer operation. Ask your authorized Sprinter or Airstream dealer if
you require an explanation of information contained in the manuals.
Trailer Hitches
Units have hitches and wiring installed from the Sprinter manufacturer. The
Sprinter 7- way connector is used for lights and charge line on a trailer. For
further information, please see your authorized Sprinter dealer.
The bumpers on your vehicle are not designed for use with clamp type hitches.
Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper type hitches to them.
To reduce the possibility of damage, remove the hitch ball adapter from the
receiver when not in use.
Since this vehicle is designed and intended primarily as a load-carrying vehicle,
towing a trailer will affect handling, durability and economy. Maximum safety
and satisfaction depends upon proper use of correct equipment and avoiding
overloads and other abusive operation.
Warning
: The total weight of the motorhome and trailer must
not exceed the GCWR listed in the specification section of this manual.
The maximum towing capacity varies according to the size of the moto-
rhome and its GCWR. Vehicles should be properly equipped for towing
trailers. Information on trailer hauling capabilities and special equipment
required may be obtained from your Sprinter and/or Airstream dealer.
Loading a Trailer
When loading a trailer, you should observe that neither the permissible GTW
(Gross Tongue Weight), nor the trailer GVWR are exceeded.
Maximum permissible values are listed on the safety compliance certification
labels for the vehicle and for the trailer to be towed. For their location, see the
Sprinter Operators Manual. The lowest value listed must be selected when
determining how the vehicle and trailer are loaded.
To assist in attaining good handling of the vehicle/trailer combination it is im-
portant that the tongue weight be maintained at approximately 10%-15% of
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