One way to effectively load a travel
trailer is to spread the weight from side to side and from front to back based
on your trailer’s load specifications. According
to the Your RV Lifestyle website,
weight distribution is critical and you should, “know your Gross Axle Weight
Ratings (GAWR), obtain measurements of specific wheel position loads and set
tire pressure appropriately.” You are
also trying to keep the center of gravity low and have all cargo secured to
prevent it from shifting while the trailer is moving.
The California Department of Motor
Vehicles says that hitch weights for travel trailers should be on average at
least 10% of the trailer’s gross weight to ensure smooth handling and can go
15% or higher in some cases. If you tow
a large travel trailer, your hitch weight is determined by capacity of the tow
vehicles and the hitch. Heavy trailers
should be towed by a pickup truck or heavy-duty van. Always keep in mind that if you do not follow
your specific recommendations, you may find yourself in the unpleasant and
potentially dangerous position of a trailer fishtailing across lanes.
You can research on the Internet or
check the yellow pages to find a public scale where you can bring your trailer
in to have it weighed. Furthermore remember
that the suggested speed for safe towing is no higher
than 55 MPH and it is the law in many states.
Be sure to take your time and enjoy the trip along the way to help
guarantee a safe arrival.
Sources:
Pikes Peak Traveland has been one of
the top Colorado Springs RV dealers since 1982 and a partner in the national
Route 66 RV Network. Whether you are in the market for a new or used RV, want
to consign one, or need parts or service, we can help. We only sell the top names in RVs and offer
some of the best prices around. Please
come out and take a look at our extensive inventory of quality RVs for
sale.
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