General Towing Definitions

The following definitions related to towing a trailer will help you understand the following information:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle. This includes the driver, passengers, cargo and tongue weight. The total load must be limited so that you do not exceed the GVWR.

Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)

GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of all cargo, consumables, and equipment (permanent or temporary) loaded into or onto the trailer in its "loaded condition" and ready for operation.

The recommended way to measure GTW is to place the fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of the trailer must be supported by the scale.

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)

GCWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle and trailer when weighed in combination.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

GAWR is the maximum load-carrying capacity of the front and rear axles. Distribute the load evenly over the front and rear axles. Make sure you do not exceed either the front or rear GAWR.

Tongue Weight (TW)

TW is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. You must consider this as part of the load on your vehicle.

Trailer Frontal Area

Frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the maximum width of the front of the trailer.

Trailer Sway Control (TSC)

TSC may be a mechanical telescoping link that can be installed between the receiver hitch and the trailer tongue, which typically provides adjustable friction associated with telescoping movement to dampen any unwanted trailer sway motions during travel.

If equipped with electronic TSC, the system detects trailer sway and automatically applies individual wheel brakes and/or reduces engine power in an attempt to stop the trailer from swaying.

Load-Carrying Hitch

A load-carrying hitch supports the weight of the trailer tongue as if it were luggage located in the hitch or at some other point of attachment on the vehicle. These types of hitches are normally used for towing small and medium-sized trailers.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing system works by applying leverage through spring (load) bars. They are normally used for heavier loads to distribute the trailer tongue weight to the front axle of the tow vehicle and the trailer axles. When used according to the manufacturer's instructions, it provides a more level ride, offering more stable steering and brake control, which improves towing safety. Adding friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens sway caused by crosswinds and positively affects the stability of the tow vehicle and trailer. A trailer sway control and weight-distributing hitch (load equalizing) is recommended for heavier loads with tongue weight (TW) and may be required depending on vehicle and trailer configuration/loading to meet the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.

• An improperly adjusted weight-distributing hitch system may reduce handling, stability, braking performance and may result in a collision.
• Weight-distributing systems may not be compatible with surge brake couplers. Consult the manufacturer of your hitch and trailer or your recreational vehicle dealer for more information.