Tow Rating Guide
Welcome to the Go RV Tow Guide, your essential resource for towing safely and effectively with your RV. Whether you're a seasoned RVer or just starting out, understanding towing capacities, equipment, and best practices is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
How much weight can my vehicle tow?
Essential Tow Capacity Information:
Understanding your vehicle’s tow rating capacity is critical to choosing the right RV for you and your family.
Know Your Vehicle's Tow Capacity
Before hitching up, always check your vehicle’s towing capacity. This information can typically be found in your vehicle’s owner manual or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Exceeding your vehicle’s towing limit can lead to safety hazards and mechanical issues.
Matching Your RV to Your Tow Vehicle
Ensure your RV’s weight (including cargo and passengers) does not exceed your vehicle’s towing capacity. Matching your RV's weight to your tow vehicle’s capabilities ensures better control, braking efficiency, and overall safety on the road.
Choosing the Right Hitch
Selecting the correct hitch is crucial for safe towing. Consider factors like hitch class (e.g., Class III, IV), weight distribution systems for larger trailers, and sway control devices to enhance stability. Consult with a professional if you’re unsure which hitch setup suits your RV and vehicle combination.
Brake Requirements
Depending on your local regulations and the weight of your RV, you may need additional braking systems. Electric brakes, brake controllers, and brake assist devices help manage stopping distances and improve safety, especially when towing heavier loads.
Towing Terms and Definitions
Dry Weight/Shipped Weight
The weight of the RV as shipped from the manufacturer without any passengers, cargo, liquids, or additional accessories or dealer installed options.
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)
The current combined weight of the RV (dry weight) plus passengers, cargo, and liquids.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The maximum allowed weight of an Vehicle/RV, including passengers, cargo, fluids, etc.
Cargo Weight
The total weight of all passengers, food, clothing, liquids, accessories, etc.. that you might put into your RV.
Tongue/Hitch Weight
The weight/pressure applied from the trailer tongue/coupler to the conventional/bumper hitch on your vehicle.
Pin Weight
This is often referred to as the weight/pressure applied from fifth wheel king pin to the hitch in the bed of your truck.
Payload Capacity
For Trucks the amount of weight you can safely add to the bed of the truck. Your Fifth Wheels Hitch Weight or Pin Weight plus the actual weight of hitch plus any other accessories you have in the bed of the truck must not exceed the Payload Capacity amount. Confirm Payload Capacity with your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Max Towing Capacity
The maximum weight limit that can safely be towed by your specific vehicle. This weight is calculated by adding the RV’s GVW with weight of all passengers, cargo, and liquids in your tow vehicle.
