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Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling
Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling
Towing Guidelines
Weight distribution is an important factor when loading your fth-wheel
and travel-trailer. A recreational vehicle with the cargo distributed properly
will result in efcient, trouble-free towing. Loading the coach as evenly as
possible and then weighing the loaded RV can accomplish proper weight
distribution. Keep heavier items as low as possible and distribute evenly
(front to back and side to side). Securing your possessions can prevent
damage from shifting during towing and maintain the weight distribution
balance achieved during preparation for travel.
You must not exceed the GVWR or GAWR of the unit (see denitions). To
verify GVWR, total the loaded hitch and axle weights. If this total exceeds
GVWR, you must remove items until the vehicle weight is within this limit.
You can verify that the coach’s axles are not overloaded by comparing
the loaded axle weight with the GAWR. If the reading is above this limit,
redistribute the item load.
Finally, make sure the pin weight of the loaded fth-wheel falls within the
limits of the tow vehicle.
Weight Ratings - Definitions
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
The maximum permissible weight of this coach when fully loaded. It
includes all weight at the unit’s axle(s) and tongue or pin.
UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)
The weight of this fth-wheel as manufactured at the factory. It includes
all weight at the coach’s axle(s) and tongue or pin. If applicable, it also
includes full generator uids, fuel, engine oil and coolants.
CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)
Is equal to GVWR minus each of the following: UVW, full fresh (potable)
water weight (including water heater) and full LP gas weight.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
The maximum allowable weight that an axle system is designed to carry.
Weight Ratings - Labels
The information on the weight ratings is contained on two labels: The
Federal Certication Tag and the RVIA Weight Label. Each label contains
the Vehicle Identication Number (VIN) / Serial Number for the vehicle
rated. These ratings are specic for each fth-wheel and travel-trailer
manufactured. Use only the ratings found on these labels:
Passengers are not permitted in
the coach while it is in motion.
Note