Maytag 2006 owner manual Hitching UP, Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution, Sway Control Device

TOWING YOUR AIRSTREAM

	HITCHING UP
B	Hitching up your trailer is something that will become almost second nature with practice. The
	following section includes proper hitch load distribution and a procedure for hitching up.
	Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution
	When a trailer is hitched up properly to a tow vehicle with a load equalizing hitch, approxi-
	mately 1/3 of the trailer’s tongue weight will be on the trailer’s axles and 2/3 will be transferred
	to the tow vehicle, 1/3 of this weight transfer will be carried by the front wheels and 1/3 by
	the rear wheels of the tow vehicle (See diagram), Thus, the tire load of each wheel on the tow
	vehicle will be increased by 1/6 of the trailer’s tongue weight. The tire air pressure of the tow
	vehicle should be increased to compensate for this additional weight. Refer to the vehicle’s
	owner’s manual for this information.
	Warning: The tongue weight should he approximately 10% of the trailer’s
	total weight, but MUST NOT EXCEED 1,000 lbs. And, under no condition should it exceed
	the hitch rating. Your hitch installer should provide your hitch rating information.
	Sway Control Device
	Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch manufacturers field of expertise and
	performed formal testing, we find the vast majority of Airstream owner’s purchases sway-
	control devices.
	When passed by large trucks or when exposed to sudden crosswinds the trailer will be
	“pushed” and this action will be felt in the tow vehicle. It’s our understanding the sway control
	devices will reduce the amount of movement and make towing more comfortable and add
	some safety.

Percentage of Tongue Load distributed to car and or trailer wheels

Follow the directions of the sway control manufacturer when having it installed and using it.

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