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to the longer length of your tow vehicle/RV combination. Drive with caution to avoid situations that might require
quick momentum changes.
The required stopping distance is greatly increased when towing an RV. Even though your RV is equipped with
brakes designed for GVWR, we suggest practicing stopping away from traffic until you become accustomed to your
RV’s stopping distance. A good way to practice is at a arge parking lot (where it is permissible). Easing to a stop and
starting smoothly saves wear and tear on your tow vehicle/RV combination.
Be aware of road surface conditions. Slow down well in advance of dips and bumps to reduce the jolting to your tow
vehicle/RV combination. Drive over them slowly and let the trailer tires pass over them before accelerating. Cross
railroad tracks slowly (always release your brakes before crossing).
When descending a long hill, drop down into a lower gear (or lower range if you have automatic transmission). Avoid
conditions that require excessive and prolonged use of your brakes. Apply and release brakes at short intervals to
give them chance to cool. The tow vehicle transmission and engine will help in controlling downhill speed and can
lengthen brake life.
Use care when accelerating or decelerating on a slippery surface. Abrupt speed changes can cause skidding and loss
of control. Driving through water deep enough to wet the brakes may affect stopping distance or cause the vehicle
to pull to one side. Check the RV’s brake operation in a safe area to be sure they have not been affected. Never oper-
ate any vehicle if a difference in braking efficiency is noticeable.
Passenger safety
• While your RV is in motion, DO NOT allow anyone to ride inside as a passenger.
• In several states, this practice is against the aw.
Weight and Clearance Limits
In order to obey all posted weight and clearance limits, you MUST always know the weight and height of your RV/
tow vehicle combination.
• ALWAYS include the roof air conditioners, TV antennas, and floodlights as they may cause clearance problems
under some tunnels, canopies or hanging signs.
• Some bridges, older ones in particuar, may not support the weight of your RV/tow vehicle combination.
Turning Corners
When turning, the tires do not follow the path of your tow vehicle tires. The RV will make a tighter turn than the tow
vehicle. You must compensate for this action by carefully pulling the tow vehicle out into the intersection further
than you would normally so that the RV clears the curb (or any parked vehicles along the curb).
Backing up
If there are no pull through sites at your camping destination, choose a level site and back in carefully. BEFORE you
park, exit your tow vehicle, and inspect that site conditions are satisfactory.
• Check that you have plenty of vehicle clearance.
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