Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Trailer Hitch Draw Bars and Balls

 12 Jan 21:

So we have the right tires for our trailer, and we know how much the tow vehicle is rated to tow, and we can find out how much cargo weight the trailer can carry by looking at the data tag. The tag also tells us the weight of the trailer and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for the trailer (trailer plus cargo).


If we buy a used trailer and the tag is missing, we can ask our trailer pro to look at the axle and let us know what the weight rating for the axle is. 

Next things to check are the hitch receiver, what is it rated for? 3500 pounds, Class III on our Outback and Edge, 8000 pounds on our RV. Then check the draw bar and hitch pin, yes, the hitch pin too, this draw bar rated for 7500 pounds, plenty for the cars but not maximum for the RV. We also need to be aware that trailer weight should be reduced for extra cargo carried inside the tow vehicle, including things like water in the tank of our RV and fuel, passengers, etc...


Hitch balls are also rated, higher load rating is good in our book.


We'll mention trailer tongue weight, 350 pounds on our cars and 500 on our RV.

Tow Smart!
Clark and Skipper

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