Stay within your limits . Review the towing capacity of your specific vehicle and ensure it ’ s capable of handling the weight of your trailer . Exceeding the maximum towing capacity can result in dangerous handling , insufficient braking performance , or serious damage to the vehicle ’ s suspension , engine and drivetrain . In addition to ensuring your vehicle ’ s towing capacity is sufficient for your trailer , also make sure your trailer hitch is capable of handling your trailer ’ s loaded weight . Your hitch should be labeled with the maximum trailer and maximum tongue weights it can safely support . Depending on the weight of your trailer , you should also follow your owner ’ s manual ’ s recommendations regarding the use of weight carrying or weight-distributing hitches .
Don ’ t assume all versions of a certain model line share identical tow ratings . Towing capacities can differ by body styles , bed lengths , drivelines , and other equipment installed on the vehicle . Likewise , different hitch designs can handle different weights , and certain designs may be required for trailers over a certain weight . Always check the owner ’ s manual for the vehicle ’ s towing capacity -- or if you own a new Chevrolet , refer to our latest towing guide on Chevrolet . com
If you plan on also carrying extra cargo or several passengers , you should also ensure you ’ re not overloading the tow vehicle itself . Refer to the gross vehicle weight rating ( GVWR ) issued for your particular vehicle ( including the tongue weight of the trailer ) and ensure your loaded vehicle does not exceed the manufacturer ’ s rating . Likewise , ensure your loaded vehicle and loaded trailer do not exceed the gross combination weight rating ( GCWR ) set by the manufacturer .
Pack your trailer properly . Not only is it incredibly important to stay within the trailer ’ s maximum load capacity , but it ’ s also important to ensure any cargo is properly positioned . In general you should load it in a way that results in a tongue weight on conventional hitch trailers that is between 10-15 % of the total weight of the loaded trailer . Specific trailers ( such as some boat trailers ) might be designed for a lower tongue weight . Always reference the trailer ’ s owner ’ s manual to determine correct loading . Ensure weight is evenly distributed on the left and right sides of the trailer . Once the load is properly distributed and an ideal tongue weight is achieved , all cargo should be secured to prevent the load from shifting .
Check your tires . This goes for both your tow vehicle and your trailer . Tires that are not properly inflated can negatively affect handling . Further , underinflated tires can create more rolling resistance , which not only forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel , but also increases tire temperatures and may contribute to a blow-out . Refer to the
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