I I . S A F E T Y
HITCH CLASS INFORMATION
Pride would like to pass along the following important information about choosing the correct vehicle hitch system for use with various
After choosing a particular exterior lift system, it is important to fit it with the correct hitch receiver. Hitches come in a variety of sizes and are designated by class. The classes range from Class I to Class IV. The heavier the load, the larger class of hitch having a greater tongue weight needed. Tongue weight is the amount of weight (downward force) the load puts on the hitch. See figure 1.
The combined weight of your lift and mobility vehicle gives you the minimum tongue weight for your application. Exceeding the tongue weight of a hitch creates an unsafe driving situation and can damage the hitch and/or the vehicle. See figures 2 and 3.
WARNING! Adding accessories, oversize batteries, or a different seat will increase the weight of your mobility vehicle. Verify with your authorized Pride Provider that the total weight of your mobility device, including additions, does not exceed the maximum weight allowance.
WARNING! Never exceed the maximum lifting capacity of a lift regardless of the class of hitch being used. Doing so may cause lift and/or vehicle damage.
Hitch Classes
A Class I hitch has a maximum tongue weight of 200 lbs. (90.75 kg).
A Class II hitch has a maximum tongue weight of 350 lbs. (158.75 kg).
A Class III hitch has a maximum tongue weight of 500 lbs. (225.75 kg).
A Class IV hitch has a maximum tongue weight of 1200 lbs. (544.30 kg).
Figure 1. Tongue Weight Pressure Point
Figure 2. Unsafe Driving Situation
WARNING! Before choosing an |
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Figure 3. Vehicle Damage | |||
exterior lift and applicable hitch | |||
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system, check your vehicle owner’s |
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manual for its hitch maximum |
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tongue weight capacity. Do not |
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exceed the maximum tongue weight |
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capacity of your vehicle. |
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8 | www.pridemobility.com | Exterior Lift System |