More of this Feature • Terminology • Hitches • Safety First

Join the Discussion "If I tow this behind my RV with an "A" frame will it hurt the transmission"? Bob Perry (BOBP750)

Related Resources • Trailer Hitches

From Other Guides • Towed or Toad? • Fifth Wheel Trailers • How to Back a Camper • Test Drive a GMC Sierra 4x4 SLT

Elsewhere on the Web • How manufactures determine towing rates • Towing rates for 1999 and 2000 trucks and SUVs

Determining what your SUV or truck can tow can be a difficult task.  The terminology can be as confusing as Chinese arithmetic.  If you have spent an evening or two sifting through your vehicle owner's manual, you may have found that information to be as clear as mud.  Add these questions to the fact that all manufacturers don't use the same formula to determine the vehicle towing capacity, and it becomes apparent why consumers continue to be confused.

Determine Your Tow Vehicle

If your needs are as basic as towing a small boat or transporting horses or 5th wheel trailers, having the right tow vehicle is one of the more important aspects.  Before purchasing a tow vehicle, it's best to determine the maximum weight you might tow and then match that weight to a vehicle of your choice. Trailer Life and Bob's Travel Center have Tow Vehicle Guides that will help narrow your choices.

Basic Terms

Becoming familiar with the terminology can lessen the confusion in determining how much your vehicle is capable of towing.  Sherline offers a  Trailer Load and Balance Worksheet that will help take some of the guesswork out of the formula.

Hitches

After you have determined how much weight you will be towing and how much weight your tow vehicle can handle, the hitch will be the next tough choice. It's often a choice that consumers unwisely spend little time considering. The hitch is one of the more important factors in assuring that your tow vehicle and load make it to their destination safely.  There are several types of hitches to choose from. In some cases, the trailer you are towing will determine the type of hitch you'll need.  One of the more unique hitch systems is offered by Advanced Air Hitches. Their unique design can improve handling, braking, traction and wear and tear on your equipment.

Safety First

Although safety should always be a concern when driving a vehicle, safety should have a heighten awareness when towing.  Awareness should begin with a towing check list.  Before each trip take a  few extra minutes to go over this check list and give yourself peace of mind.  The time spent thinking and checking safety concerns could not only save  your equipment from damage but also reduce the possibilities of accidents on the highway and save lives.

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