brakes, tow vehicle brakes, acceleration, the proper hitch and sway
controls can affect your control of the trailer when you experience
trailer sway.
Hitches
I
CAUTION:
V
Using an oversized or undersized hitch can cause damage to the frame
of your trailer.
V
Jayco, Inc. cannot be responsible for the suspension system of the tow
vehicle.
V
The final ball height after the trailer is completely hooked up is a factor
to be considered when towing a trailer. It is important that your trailer
be level when hitched to your tow vehicle.
V
To avoid overloading your trailer axles and maximize possible handling
difficulties, your trailer should be level when hooked to your tow
vehicle.
V Do not overload your tow vehicle.
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. Your trailer requires a frame
mounted hitch. This type of hitch is assigned a class number, by the manufacturer. The
class is based on the capacity the hitch has for towing and a weight classification. The
weight classification is determined from the hitch’s weight carrying capacity, which is also
known as the tongue weight. Before selecting a hitch, you must know the total towed
weight (trailer weight and all contents of the trailer) and the tongue weight of the trailer.
The rating of the hitch package should be equal to or greater than the trailer’s GVWR and
the hitch weight.
Equipment that sometimes gives autos, trucks and sport utility vehicles a softer ride can
accentuate swaying when pulling a travel trailer. Conversely, suspension that is too stiff
will increase vibration, bounce and accelerate wear of your tow vehicle and travel trailer. It
is important that your travel trailer be level when hitched to your tow vehicle. Educate
yourself to protect you, your family and other motorists.
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTING SYSTEM
A weight distributing hitch system provides a more stable tow vehicle/trailer combination.
This system will spread the weight evenly to distribute it to the tow vehicle front and rear
axles and the trailer axle. Consult with your tow vehicle dealer and or hitch installer to
familiarize yourself with the operation and requirements of the weight distributing hitch
system.
SWAY CONTROL
Sway can be a major factor while traveling. It can be caused by a number of factors
including gusty wind, air displacement while passing a semi-truck, incorrect weight
distribution and often excessive speed. The use of a sway control device will help to control
the side-to-side movement and keep sway in check.
26 Jay Feather Conventional Travel Trailer
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