Airstream INTERNATIONAL CCD - Manual (Page 21)

B
B - 5
TOWING
HITCHING UP
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, approximately 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% to 14% of the trailer’s total
weight. Under no condition should it exceed the
hitch rating. Your hitch installer should provide your
hitch rating information to you.
Sway Control Device
Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch
manufacturers field of expertise and preformed formal
testing, we find the vast majority of Airstream owners
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 understand-
ing the sway control devices will reduce the amount
of movement and make towing more comfortable and
add some safety.
Follow the directions of the sway control manufacturer
when having it installed and using it.
Percentage of Tongue Load
distributed to car and or trailer wheels