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Chapter 3: Towing and Leveling
to dangerous driving conditions such as sway and reduced tow vehicle
control. In no circumstance should the loaded weight ever exceed the
GVWR or the GAWRs.
Safety Chains
Always use safety chains when towing. They maintain the connection
between the travel-trailer and tow vehicle in the event of separation of
the ball and trailer coupling. Safety chains are included with every travel-
trailer and, in most states, are required when towing a travel-trailer. Hook
them to the frame of the tow vehicle (not the hitch), crossing them under
the trailers tongue. Inspect the length of the chains once attached to the
tow vehicle frame. They should be long enough to allow for turns, but
short enough to avoid any drag.
Breakaway Switch
The breakaway switch is another safety device as it provides a means of
automatically slowing and stopping your RV if it should become detached
during traveling. The cable from the breakaway switch should be attached
to the tow vehicle so that it remains connected in the event the trailer
coupling detaches from the hitch ball. The breakaway switch is powered
from the RV 12 Volt battery. If separation occurs the pin is pulled out of
the switch and current from the RV battery is applied to the trailer brakes.
Tire Pressure
Maintaining proper tire pressure is another key to safety. The Cold
Ination Pressure for each axle is located on the Federal Certication
Label. Cold ination pressure refers to the pressure in the tire prior
to traveling. Always check your tire pressure before traveling. Under
inated tires will cause excessive sidewall exing and produce extreme
heat, leading to early tire failure and possible loss of control. Over inated
tires can cause uneven tire where and also lead to early failure. More
information on tires and maintenance can be found in the Care and
Maintenance section.
Level Towing
Having the tow vehicle and recreational vehicle level with each other will
help improve towability as well as safe driving. A hitch that is too low can
cause the front to drag. A hitch that is too high can cause the rear to hit
those high spots in the road.
Lights
Check all electrical connections to ensure all lights on the tow vehicle and
travel-trailer are functioning properly. The break lights, hazards and turn
signals should be in synchronization with the tow vehicle.
Mirrors
Adjust the mirrors on the tow vehicle prior to departure. Having someone
to assist you will make this safety step quick and easy. First line up the
tow vehicle and trailer. Next, sit in the driver’s seat and adjust the left
mirror to where you can see the entire left side of the trailer and well
beyond. Finally, while still sitting in the driver’s seat, have someone adjust
the right mirror until the same result is achieved.
While Driving
Driving with a trailer in tow is different. Start out slowly, checking the
trafc after signaling and being sure the road is clear. Accelerate slowly
and evenly, checking the mirrors frequently as you move into the proper
Disconnect the unit from the
Bargman Seven-Way Tow
Vehicle Cord prior to testing the
breakaway switch. Failure to
do so may cause damage to the
brake controller.