Jayco Eagle Eagle Super Lite Owner's Manual page 23

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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). Fifth-wheels typically
maintain 25% of their overall gross weight
(trailer weight and contents) on the hitch.
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.
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 determine the hitch
This unit hitch
height for your model,
height is:
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.
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
B
ITCH
ALL
PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION
tow vehicle you are using so a compatible
hookup is achieved. Depending on the model,
your required travel trailer hitch ball diameter
is 2-5/16" (consult your dealer for assistance).
There is no recommended hitch height for
fifth-wheel travel trailers; usually the fifth
wheel pin box is adjustable for variance in
trucks and truck suspension systems.
S
C
WAY
ONTROL
(C
S
USTOMER
UPPLIED
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.
Sway control devices are available to reduce
the
sway
produced by
displacement
caused
passing you in transit, incorrect weight
distribution, excessive speed, the RV tires
dropping onto the shoulder of the road, etc.
You will also want to discuss this purchase
with your Dealer.
The use of a sway control device will help to
control the side-to-side movement and keep
sway in check.
Suggestions for sway situations:
Slowly ease your foot off the accelerator.
Turn the steering wheel as little as
possible. Natural lag time reaction when
counter-steering to correct sway could
possibly make it worse.
If the trailer is equipped with electric
brakes, using the hand control will help to
keep the vehicles aligned.
As soon as possible, stop to determine
the cause of the sway. Check all
equipment and load distribution. If the
problem cannot be solved immediately,
contact
your
Dealer
appointment (travel at a very reduced
speed on your way there).
SECTION 3
)
crosswinds,
air
by
other
vehicles
for
a
service
19

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