- (1) What is your vehicle's tow rating?
- (2) What is the trailer's weight?
- (3) In addition to the trailer, how much weight will you carry?
- (4) How much time will be spent towing?
- (5) What type of conditions will you frequently encounter? steep grades, high altitude, extreme temperatures
- (6) What special conditions requiring added traction are you unlikely to encounter? off-roads, snowy roads, unfinished roads
- (7) Will you tow over short or long distances?
- (8) Is the trailer equipped with trailer brakes?
- (9) What type of electrical connection does the trailer require? 4-wire, 6-wire, 7-wire, other
- (10) What type of hitch does the trailer require? weight-carrying, weight-distribution, fifth-wheel, or gooseneck
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is not the weight of the trailer. GVWR is the maximum amount the vehicle is rated to carry. Everything that contributes to the weight of the tow vehicle features in this rating including the base unit dry weight (UVW), all fluids, cargo, optional equipment, and accessories. Gross Dry Weight or Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) is based on standard model features. It is the weight of the actual unloaded vehicle without cargo, fresh water, LP gas, optional equipment, or accessories. Hitch Weight or Tongue Weight is the amount of weight sitting on the ball of the hitch or in the back of the truck. For a trailer this can be minimized with a weight-distribution hitch.
Axle Weight is the proportion of the UVW that is supported by the axles, tires, and wheels. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the maximum load weight, in pounds, that can be placed on the axle.Electric brakes usually provide automatic and manual control of the trailer brakes. The tow vehicle must be equipped with a brake control and additional wiring. The control is installed within reach of the driver and can be applied manually or automatically. Surge brakes are independent hydraulic brakes activated by a master cylinder on the trailer tongue. The tow vehicle's hydraulic brake system should never be connected directly to the trailer's hydraulic system.
Wiring your tow vehicle or trailer should only be done by someone with electrical experience. Wiring the plug incorrectly can damage the tow vehicle or trailer.
