HITCHES: The 1 ¼” receiver is generally found on a Class II hitch and a 2” receiver is generally found on a Class III or a Class IV hitch. (See diagram below)
Note: TWISTEP® is a durable product and by itself can support up to 500 pounds.
When used in conjunction with most Class III hitches, (which are usually rated to 500 pounds), TWISTEP® can support up to 500 pounds. However, when used in conjunction with most Class II hitches (which are usually rated to 300 pounds), TWISTEP® can support up to 300 pounds.
The load bearing capacity even among the same class of hitch can vary, so if you are uncertain about your hitch’s load bearing capacity, we recommend you check your owners manual, contact the dealer or the source of your after-market hitch.
To assist you further on the subject of hitches, we’ve provided some basic definitions and diagrams below.
GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT (GTW)
This is the total weight of the trailer under fully-loaded conditions, including food, water, gear, etc. To find out the Gross Trailer Weight, measure the gross trailer load by placing the fully-loaded trailer on a commercial scale.
|
|
TRAILER TONGUE WEIGHT (TW)
This is the downward pressure that the tongue of a fully loaded trailer exerts on the hitch. The tongue weight can be measured on a commercial scale. Be sure the trailer is level and the wheels are chocked.
|
|
VEHICLE TOWING CAPACITY
The manufacturer's specification of the weight the vehicle is designed to tow. Although some hitches may have a higher stated capacity since they fit other vehicles, never exceed the manufacturer's stated trailer capacity. The specifications are found in the vehicle's owner manual, or can be obtained by writing to the vehicle manufacturer.
|
|
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTING HITCHES
By adding weight distributing equipment to a Class III or Class IV hitch, you will more evenly distribute the weight over the axles of the tow vehicle. This will eliminate tow vehicle sag as shown in the diagram below.
|