IMPORTANT:
§ Determine hitch and axle weights with both vehicles
level.
§ Tilting the trailer forward will add front axle
weight.
§ Hitch weight and tension of the equalizer bars will be
affected by leveling the trailer and tow vehicle.
§ Havethetowvehiclelevelif equalizersareused.Have
tire pressure up to speci cations as indicated on the
tire sidewall.
Consider load weights when determining weight
distribution. Proper trailer positioning and loading
are important not only for ease of hauling, but for
safety. Remember: 10% to 15% of a travel trailer’s
weight should be on the hitch. A fth wheel will be
slightly more as a percentage.
Heavier items should be placed over the axles. Avoid
placing too much weight at the front or rear of the trailer.
Excess weight in/on the rear of the trailer can have a
negative effect on the stability of both vehicles. Stability
and weight can be affected if waste is in the holding tanks
or water in the fresh water holding tank.
CAUTION: Do not attach such items as motorcycles,
fuel or water containers, etc. on the rear of your
trailer.
SECURE FOR TRAVEL
Before starting out, make certain everything is secure in
the trailer.
§ Check cabinets and drawers; make sure nothing can
spill in cabinets or refrigerator.
§ Ensure that the refrigerator latch is engaged.
§ Lock windows and rockguards.
§ Close roof vents.
§ Secure loose chairs and other items.
§ Disconnect all hoses and close all valves.
§ Make sure electrical cords and adapters have been
disconnected and put away.
Hitch Connection
Using the proper hitch on the tow vehicle is critical for
maximum safety when towing a travel trailer. Load-
leveling or load-equalizing hitches with anti-sway bars
are recommended for added stability and maneuvering.
Several factors need to be considered when selecting the
proper hitch including:
7
§Gross weight of the trailer.
§Tongue weight.
§Awelded or bolted weight-carrying hitch on the frame
or body of the tow vehicle.
§A 2 5/16 inches hitch ball. (Lubricate the hitch ball
periodically).
Consult your dealer and/or a representative of your tow
vehicle manufacturer in selecting a hitch and accessories
for your trailer.
SAFETY CHAINS
The Department of Transportation federally mandates
use of safety chains on travel trailers. Safe towing
recommendations include:
§Attach safety chains to the tow vehicle separate from
the hitch.
§Leave only enough slack in each length of chain to
permit the vehicle to turn during normal driving.
§The chains should not contact the ground or road
surface.
§Cross the chains from the trailer hitch to the tow
vehicle.
§When all connections are secure, be certain the 7-pin
electrical connector cord and the breakaway switch
lanyard cable are longer than the extended safety
chains.
§Should the hitch ball become disengaged from the
coupler, the safety chains will extend, the 7-pin
connector should remain connected to the tow vehicle
for braking and the breakaway switch should not
engage.
VEHICLE & TRAILER HOOK-UP
Connecting the tow vehicle hitch to the coupler on the
travel trailer or fth wheel is a simple procedure, described
by the following:
TRAVEL TRAILERS
Before dropping the coupler over the hitch ball,1.
the coupler-locking arm must be in an unlocked
position.
Thecoupler should be slightlybehind the ball (away2.
from thetow vehicle),permittingthe couplertoslide
down over the ball positively.
After locking the coupler over the ball, be certain3.
the ball is fully engaged with the coupler.
Attach the safety chains to the tow vehicle. Be sure4.
to cross the chains from the trailer hitch to the tow
vehicle. Be careful to leave slack in each length of
chain to permit the vehicle to turn during normal
driving.
Check the vehicle’s turning capabilities.5.
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