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Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling
Towing Guidelines
Weight distribution is an important factor when loading your fifth-wheel
and travel-trailer. A recreational vehicle with the cargo distributed properly
will result in efficient, trouble-free towing. Loading the coach as evenly as
possible and then weighing the loaded RV can accomplish proper weight
distribution. Keep heavier items as low as possible and distribute evenly
(front to back and side to side). Securing your possessions can prevent
damage from shifting during towing and maintain the weight distribution
balance achieved during preparation for travel.
You must not exceed the GVWR or GAWR of the unit (see definitions). To
verify GVWR, total the loaded hitch and axle weights. If this total exceeds
GVWR, you must remove items until the vehicle weight is within this limit.
You can verify that the coach's axles are not overloaded by comparing
the loaded axle weight with the GAWR. If the reading is above this limit,
redistribute the item load.
Finally, make sure the pin weight of the loaded fifth-wheel falls within the
limits of the tow vehicle.
Weight Ratings - Definitions
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
The maximum permissible weight of this coach when fully loaded. It
includes all weight at the unit's axle(s) and tongue or pin.
UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)
The weight of this fifth-wheel as manufactured at the factory. It includes
all weight at the coach's axle(s) and tongue or pin. If applicable, it also
includes full generator fluids, fuel, engine oil and coolants.
CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)
Is equal to GVWR minus each of the following: UVW, full fresh (potable)
water weight (including water heater) and full LP gas weight.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
The maximum allowable weight that an axle system is designed to carry.
Weight Ratings - Labels
The information on the weight ratings is contained on two labels: The
Federal Certification Tag and the RVIA Weight Label. Each label contains
the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) / Serial Number for the vehicle
rated. These ratings are specific for each fifth-wheel and travel-trailer
manufactured. Use only the ratings found on these labels:
Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling
Passengers are not permitted in
the coach while it is in motion.
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Summary of Contents for Keystone RV Automobile Accessories
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Page 1: Chapter 3: Towing And Leveling
Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling Towing Guidelines Weight distribution is an important factor when loading your fifth-wheel and travel-trailer. A recreational vehicle with the cargo distributed properly will result in efficient, trouble-free towing. Loading the coach as evenly as possible and then weighing the loaded RV can accomplish proper weight distribution. -
Page 2: Federal Certification Label
Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling Federal Certification Label Location The Federal Certification Tag on your fifth-wheel or travel-trailer can be located on the road side (off-door side) near the front of the unit as seen in the diagrams below. This tag contains the GVWR, GAWR (front and rear) and tire pressure limits. -
Page 3: Fifth-Wheel
Weighing Your Unit Fifth-Wheel Pull forward on the scales until only the coach’s axles are on the • scale. Record axle weight. Pull off the scales and unhook from the fifth-wheel. Weigh the truck by itself and record this weight. To determine hitch pin weight subtract the weight of the tow •... -
Page 4: Before Towing
Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling Check tires for proper inflation and wheel lug torque to meet manufacturer’s specifications. 6. Close and latch tailgate. 7. Back truck slowly until kingpin engages the fifth-wheel and automatically locks 8. Ensure the lock is closed. 9. -
Page 5: While Driving
to dangerous driving conditions such as sway and reduced tow vehicle control. In no circumstance should the loaded weight ever exceed the GVWR or the GAWRs. Safety Chains Always use safety chains when towing. They maintain the connection between the travel-trailer and tow vehicle in the event of separation of the ball and trailer coupling. - Page 6 Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling lane. Try to drive with an anticipation of problems that may occur way ahead and prepare for them, even though they may never happen. As a motorist sharing the road, you are taller, heavier, longer and require more time and distance to stop.
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Page 7: Turning Corners
Turning Corners Here is where you find a first basic difference when towing. The trailer wheels do not follow the path of your tow vehicle’s wheels. The trailer will make a closer turn than the tow vehicle. Compensate by pulling further into the intersection so that the trailer will clear the curb or clear any parked vehicles along the road. -
Page 8: Stabilizing Jacks
Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling Stabilizing jacks are designed to level and stabilize your coach. Do not attempt to lift the unit to change a tire or for any other purpose. After-market stabilizer stands must be placed only under chassis frame rails. Stabilizer jacks ... -
Page 9: Chapter 4: Appliances And Equipment
Chapter 4: Appliances and Equipment What to do if you smell gas Do not try to light any appliance Extinguish any open flames including cigarettes Do Not Touch Any Electric Switch Open windows and doors Exit trailer Shut off the gas supply at the gas container (bottle or source) Immediately call a service center or gas supplier from an outside phone and follow their instructions Do not turn on the gas supply until the gas leaks have been repaired...
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