Hitch; Hitch Height & Hitch Ball; Sway Control - Jayco 2012 Jay Feather Ultralite Owner's Manual

SECTION 3
PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION
H (C
ITCH USTOMER
Using an oversized or undersized hitch
can cause damage to the RV frame. Jayco
cannot be responsible for the tow vehicle
suspension system. The final ball height
after the tow
combination 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.
Hitch selection is important because it affects
the towing and handling characteristics of
your RV. There are many kinds of hitches
available for various uses and assuring that
you have the correct hitch installed is critical
to a safe towing experience.
Ask your dealer about the proper class and
type of hitch you need to purchase for your
individual tow vehicle/RV combination (a
travel trailer requires a frame mounted hitch).
The hitch manufacturer assigns a hitch class
rating based on the capacity that hitch has for
towing and a weight classification. The weight
classification is determined from the hitch's
weight carrying capacity (also known as the
tongue weight on a travel trailer). Before
selecting a hitch, you must know your GVWR
and tongue weight or pin box rating.
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).
Equipment that sometimes gives autos, trucks
and sport utility vehicles a softer ride can
accentuate swaying when pulling a RV;
conversely, suspension that is too stiff will
increase vibration, bounce and accelerate
wear of your tow vehicle and trailer. Educate
yourself to protect you, your family and other
motorists.
3 - 2
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UPPLIED
vehicle/travel trailer
The rating of the hitch package purchased
should be equal to or greater than the RV's
GVWR and the hitch weight (or pin box
rating).
H H & H
ITCH EIGHT
To
This unit hitch
height for your model, make
height is:
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.
Adjust the equalizing bars of the hitch
assembly so that the tow vehicle and the
trailer are essentially level. A high hitch will
transfer weight behind the axles and cause
the vehicle to fishtail. A low hitch will transfer
additional weight to the hitch. Refer to the
hitch manufacturer instructions to adjust the
weight-distributing hitch to the proper height.
If you have additional questions, consult with
your dealer. Jayco 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 certain your Dealer is aware of the
tow vehicle you are using so a compatible
hookup is achieved. Depending on the model,
your required travel trailer hitch ball diameter
is either 2" or 2-5/16" (consult your dealer for
assistance).
S C (C
WAY ONTROL
A sway control device (customer supplied)
should be used with your tow vehicle/travel
trailer combination. Consult with your
Dealer to obtain the proper equipment for
your needs.
JAYCO TOWABLE
B
ITCH ALL
determine the

hitch

S )
USTOMER UPPLIED