WEIGHING, LOADING, AND TOWING
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THOR MOTOR COACH | MADE TO FIT
have a partner stand to the rear, but not directly behind
the vehicle, to check that the turn signals, taillights and
brake lights are functioning properly.
• Always pack the trailer so that most of the weight is over
the axles, yet allowing sucient tongue weight for safe
control of the trailer.
Not only should roughly 60% of the trailer’s load be
placed over the front half of the trailer, it should also
be loaded in a way that results in a tongue weight that is
between 10-15% of the total weight of the loaded trailer.
Ensure weight is evenly distributed on the le and right
sides of the trailer. Once the load is properly distributed
and an ideal tongue weight is achieved, all cargo should
be secured to prevent the load from shiing.
• Check both TRAILER AND MOTORHOME tires daily
for proper ination and for any unusual wear (check tire
pressure with cold tires). Do not forget the inner tires
of the dual tire/wheel set-up and spare tires for both the
motorhome and trailer.
Tires that are not properly inated can negatively aect
handling. Further, under-inated tires can create more
rolling resistance, which not only forces the engine to
work harder and consume more fuel, but also increases
tire temperatures and may contribute to a blow-out.
Additionally, check the speed and load rating on the
tires for both the motorhome and trailer and never
exceed these limits.
• Check the trailer’s hub bearings before starting a trip
and oen during your travels. Ensure bearings are in
good order and properly greased.
• Check trailer brakes at the start of each trip and daily
during travels. Smaller, lighter trailers may not need
trailer brakes of any kind, but heavier trailers, or those
designed to carry heavier loads, will usually incorporate
a trailer brake system. If the trailer is equipped with
hydraulic or electric surge brakes, make sure the emer-
gency “breakaway” cable is properly attached to the tow
vehicle. In case the trailer somehow disconnects from
the hitch, this cable is designed to trigger the brakes on
the trailer and quickly bring it to a halt.
• Adjust your mirrors. Before departure, make sure the
side view mirrors are adjusted to create a clear view that
extends to the end of the trailer.
• Ensure back-up cameras are in proper working order.
Some cameras may be able to be placed in monitor
mode, so that the towed vehicle can be observed while
traveling.
• Tow bars and tow dollies generally are made to travel
in a forward direction only. Most towing equipment
of this type is not designed for backing. Never attempt
back-up maneuvers with a tow bar or tow dolly; doing
so could result in damage to the motorhome, towed
vehicle or towing device.
• Be mindful of the extra length a trailer or towed vehicle
adds to the motorhome. Motorhomes are long vehicles,
and the added length of a trailer makes a very long com-
bination. Be extra careful when merging into trac or
making lane changes. Allow extra time to make these
maneuvers. ALWAYS SIGNAL YOUR INTENTIONS
WITH PROPER USE OF TURN SIGNALS WELL IN
ADVANCE OF YOUR INTENDED MANEUVER.
• Allow for extra braking distance caused by the added
weight of a trailer or towed vehicle.
• Be extra cautious when making turns. Allow for the
extra length and large turning radius caused by the
added length of the trailer or towed vehicle.
• Use the aid of a spotter when backing the trailer. Be
sure the spotter is always in view of your rear-view
mirrors. STOP THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY IF
YOU CANNOT SEE YOUR SPOTTER.
• Always chock trailer or towed vehicle wheels when
disconnected from the towing vehicle (motorhome) or
when parking on an incline.
Reference:
https://www.gmc.com/gmc-life/trucks/tips-for-safe-trailering-and-
towing
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