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SECTION 3
PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION
Fig 3.4 Trailer Weight Information label
You may question the total weight capacity of
the tires on your RV being less than the
GVWR; this is correct. In order to calculate
the actual weight on the RV tires, it is
necessary to include the tongue weight. The
tongue weight is actually being carried by
your tow vehicle, not the RV tires.
For example: If the tires are rated at
2,000 lbs. each x 4 tires = 8,000 lbs.
and the RV has a GVWR of 9,000 lbs.
with a tongue weight of 1,200 lbs. The
actual weight on the RV tires is 7,800
lbs. which is within the weight rating of
the tires.
If you have further questions, please contact
your dealer or Jayco Customer Service.
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
22
S
)
UPPLIED
vehicle/travel
trailer
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.
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 height for your model,
make sure that the trailer is level. When the
loaded RV is hitched to the
This unit hitch
tow vehicle, check the hitch
height is:
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
B
ITCH
ALL
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