Using The Rear Hitch; Towing And Braking Label - Jayco Swift Owner's Manual

Section 4: Vehicle Operation

Using The Rear Hitch

Do not install a frame equalizing type hitch on your motorhome.
Towing will affect vehicle handling, durability and fuel economy. Exceeding any of the
listed weight ratings will result in unacceptable overall vehicle performance. Your safety
and satisfaction require proper use of correct equipment.
For maximum pulling load and vertical tongue weight, refer to the label located on the rear
hitch. A hitch bar of appropriate strength and steel should be selected to meet the capacities
of the towing receptor.
Always use safety chains between the motorhome and the towed trailer or vehicle. Cross
the chains under the tongue and allow for slack when turning corners. Connect the safety
chains to the vehicle frame or hook retainers. Never attach the safety chains to the bumper.
Before descending a steep or long grade when towing a trailer or vehicle, reduce speed and
shift the motorhome into a lower gear to control vehicle speed. Avoid frequent or prolonged
brake application, which can cause overheating or brake failure.
By definition the GCWR is "the maximum total weight rating allowed for a vehicle and any
attachment, such as a trailer or towed vehicle. To determine the total allowable weight for a
towed item, subtract the GVWR from the GCWR.
Total weight of your motorhome and any trailer or vehicle towed
by it must not exceed the GCWR. Do not assume that you can tow a
vehicle that happens to be within the capacity of the hitch. By doing so,
you may exceed the total GCWR of the motorhome.
The total weight of your motorhome (including cargo, passengers,
fluids, etc...) in addition to the vertical (tongue) weight must not ex-
ceed the GVWR and/or any GAWR. Once again, do not assume that
you can tow a trailer or vehicle that happens to be within the vertical
(tongue) weight capacity of the hitch. By doing so, you may exceed the
GVWR and/or GAWR of the motorhome.
Your motorhome chassis breaking system is rated for operation at
GVWR, NOT GCWR. Any trailer or vehicle being towed by your mo-
torhome must have adequate brakes as required by all state (or province)
and local regulations for towing with your motorhome, including areas
you may be traveling through. Failure to follow the towing guidelines
may result in property damage or injury.
Maintenance Record
30

Towing and Braking Label

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