Towing Info

GVWR - Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

The value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.

 

Hitch / Tongue Weight

The portion of the weight of a trailer that is carried on the towing vehicle through the connection point.  Conventional bumper type hitches should be 10% to 14% of the gross weight of the vehicle.  For fifth wheel and  goose neck type hitches should be 15% to  20% of the gross weight of the vehicle.

 

 

 Safety Chains

Note: Chains are crossed.

You must have two separate means of attachment between your vehicle and the trailer.
  • The chains should be long enough to allow the vehicle to corner without binding, but not so long that they drag on the pavement.  Dragging can cause the chains to become worn and unsafe.
  • Chains should always be of equal length on both sides.  
  • Safety chains should be crossed under the tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to the road should the primary hitch accidentally disconnect. The right chain attaches to the left side and the left chain attaches to the right side. 
  • It is recommended that chain hooks have latches or devices that prevent accidental disconnect.
  • The breaking strength of each chain should equal the gross weight of the towed trailer. (See: Chain grade charts.)
  • Chains are required for goose neck trailers that use a ball and socket hitch. Fifth-wheel type hitches that have safety latches do not require safety chains.