The weight rating of trailer hitches, receivers, ballmounts, balls, and
safety chains (or any other piece of the towing system) must not be exceeded by
gross trailer weight or tongue weight.
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GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT (GTW) - the weight of the loaded trailer.
To determine GTW, weigh the loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. |
|
TONGUE WEIGHT (TW) - the downward pressure placed on the ball by the
coupler. Normally the TW can be measured using a bathroom scale and
a box. On a level surface, place the coupler of the loaded trailer on
the scale at normal towing height (not pictured).
For heavier tongue weights, use the method diagramed on the
right. |
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Trailer Loading
One of the main causes of trailer sway is not having a large enough
percentage of trailer tongue weight compared to gross trailer weight.
Usually tongue weight is 10 to 15 percent of the trailer's gross weight.
To help prevent the trailer from swaying back and forth, a few things can be
done. Try placing heavier cargo in the front of the trailer, ahead of the
trailer's axle. Also center the cargo left-to-right and use tie-downs
to keep the load from sliding.
| Trailer
Sway can lead to a loss of vehicle control. When starting out with
a new load on a trailer, make sure it will not sway by gradually increasing
your speed in intervals until highway speed is reached. If the trailer
does begin to sway, try adjusting the cargo and equipment accordingly and
then repeat the test. If repositioning the load and equipment did not help
reduce the sway, a sway control may be needed. |
Driving
The addition of a trailer adds weight and length to the tow vehicle. More
weight means more time to speed up and more importantly, slow down. Overall
handling is also affected. When towing, allow for extra time when switching
lanes, stopping and passing other vehicles. To assist in slowing down,
many people use an electric trailer brake controller. The extra length
can cause problems on turns. Because the trailer does not follow the exact
path as the vehicle on turns, remember to swing out wider when traveling around
bends and corners.
To conserve fuel when towing,
travel at moderate speeds. Faster speeds increase wind resistance, reduce
gas mileage, and place added strain on the vehicle and trailer. When traveling
over large hills or down gravel roads, use a lower gear to ease transmission
and engine operation. Shifting out of overdrive and into a lower
gear may also improve vehicle gas mileage. Transmission coolers also greatly
reduce
If for some reason (a gust of wind, a downgrade, a pass by a larger
vehicle, etc.) the trailer does begin
to sway, the driver needs to assess the situation to determine the proper
course of action. Here is a list of Do's and Don'ts to think about.
|
DO |
DON'T |
- Gradually Reduce Speed
-
Steady the Steering Wheel - Sudden Turns can Worsen Sway
-
Apply only the trailer brakes (if applicable)
|
- Do Not Slam on the Brakes - Jackknifing Could Occur
-
Do Not Attempt to Steer Out of a Sway Situation
-
Do Not Increase Speed - Sway Increases in Faster Speeds
-
Do Not Tow a Trailer that Continues to Sway
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Also,
be extra cautious of potholes and other large bumps. Riding over one can damage
the tow vehicle, trailer hitch and/or trailer. When pulling a trailer take
your time and be careful.
Trailer Hitches, Receivers and Ballmounts
Keep in mind the trailer's gross trailer weight and tongue
weight when selecting trailer hitches and ballmounts. Hitches or Receivers
are specific to each vehicle and are rated accordingly. To find out how
much your vehicle can tow, see the owner's manual. Class III Ballmounts
are selected not only with gross trailer weight in mind, but also trailer height.
The more level the trailer, the easier it is to pull. Class I and Class
II Ballmounts are specific for each vehicle and are recommended by the hitch
manufacturer.
Trailer Wiring
ALWAYS make sure the turn signals, brake lights, tail lights, electric brakes,
and breakaway switches are working on the trailer prior to each use.
If the trailer has some wiring problems, a wiring
diagram / plug diagram is available which shows the proper way install trailer wiring. Replacement
trailer connectors are also available. Always be sure to find a good secure
ground on the trailer and also on the tow vehicle.
Trailer Couplers
The inside of the coupler should be
clean and slightly lubricated.
Safety Chains
ALWAYS connect the trailer's safety chains securely to the trailer hitch or tow
vehicle by crossing them underneath the coupler. The safety chains should
only be long enough to allow for tight turns. Anything longer may weaken
the safety feature of the chains if the other connections fail. Also make
sure the chains cannot wiggle or bounce free and do not let them drag on the
ground.
Hitch Balls
Always make sure the ball's weight rating is greater than the gross trailer
weight rating. As for the hole diameter, it
must be less than 1/16" greater than the ball shank diameter. When
tightening, always use the lock washer and make sure a portion of the ball shank
extends past the bottom the nut. |
|
Needed
Information for Correct Ball |
-
Gross Trailer Weight Rating (GTW)
- Hole Diameter
-
Mounting Platform Thickness
|
|
Sway Controls
Available in two different styles, sway controls reduce the effects of wind
gusts and sudden maneuvering by applying resistance to the trailer and vehicle
with respect to each other. Aside for trailers with a large surface area,
such as enclosed or travel trailers, sway controls are also used on trailers
with a low tongue weight percentage.
Weight Distribution
Weight Distribution Systems
are usually recommended for vehicles towing more than 5,000 lbs. The systems
improve braking and handling while increasing the towing capacity of some trailer
hitches.
Trailer Tires
Check tire inflation and tread wear often. Fill the tires to match
manufacturer's guidelines, for tires with too much or too little air pressure
can cause the trailer to sway.
Trailer Towing Mirrors
Available in a custom or universal fit, towing mirrors increase visibility by
allowing the driver to see the end of the trailer. This makes backing up
and passing other vehicles much easier.
Electric Trailer Brake
Controls
For use with trailers that have electric brakes, electric brake controllers
send the signal that applies the trailer's brakes.
Transmission Coolers
A must for all towing vehicles with automatic transmissions. Transmission
coolers lower the operating temperature of the oil by up to 60 degrees.
Every 20 degree drop in temperature can double both oil and equipment life by
reducing deposits and stress on the seals. Overheating causes 90% of
transmission failures.
