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RV Travel Trailer Hitch System Ratings

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Travel trailer hitches are classified by the trailer towing industry according to the amount of weight they can carry. This rating system addresses tongue weight and total weight. Keep in mind that within each classification are numerous travel trailer hitches made by a variety of manufacturers.

The three most common types of RV travel trailer hitches are the weight-carrying hitch, the weight-distributing (or load equalizer) hitch, and the fifth-wheel hitch or gooseneck.

Weight-carrying trailer hitches are designed to carry all of the travel trailers tongue weight. Weight-distributing trailer hitches are used with a receiver hitch and special parts that distribute the tongue weight among all tow vehicle and trailer axles.

Make sure the hitch has provisions for the connection of safety chains, which are required by most states. When connected, safety chains should have some slack to permit sharp turns but should not drag on the road. In addition, they should cross under the trailer tongue to help prevent the tongue from dropping to the road in the event the trailer separates from the tow vehicle.

Fifth-wheel hitches are designed for mounting the trailer connection point in the middle of the truck bed. When purchasing a fifth wheel hitch, use the recommendations of the manufacturer of the tow vehicle and fifth wheel trailer based on the type and weight of the trailer.

Weight Distribution Hitch

Fifth Wheel Hitch

Gooseneck Hitch
weight distributing hitch fifth wheel hitch gooseneck hitch

Hitch Terminology:

GTW = Gross Trailer Weight - the weight of the trailer fully loaded
TW = Tongue Weight - the weight put on the hitch ball by the trailer coupler
WC = Weight Carrying - towing capcity of a hitch without a weight distribution system
WD = Weight Distributing - towing capacity of a hitch with a weight distribution system

Vehicle Type -->

Compact Cars

Mid-Size Cars

Full-Size Cars
Mini-Trucks & Vans

Full-Size Trucks,
Vans & SUV's *

Hitch Class Rating 
Class I Trailer Hitch
WC GTW - Up to 2,000 lbs.
WC TW - Up to 200 lbs		 Light Duty Light Duty Light Duty

Light Duty
Class II Trailer Hitch
WC GTW - Up to 3,500 lbs.
WC TW - Up to 350 lbs		 Medium Duty Medium Duty Medium Duty
Class III Trailer Hitch
WC GTW - Up to 5,000 lbs.
WC TW - Up to 500 lbs		 Heavy Duty Heavy Duty
Class IV Trailer Hitch
WC GTW - Up to 7,500 lbs.
WC TW - Up to 750 lbs
WD GTW - Up to 12,000 lbs.
WD TW - Up to 1,200 lbs		 Heavy Duty Heavy Duty
Class V Trailer Hitch
WC GTW - Up to 12,000 lbs.
WC TW - Up to 1,200 lbs
WD GTW - Up to 14,000 lbs.
WD TW - Up to 1,400 lbs		 Extra Heavy Duty

* Even Full Size Trucks & SUVs have weight limits. Make sure your tow vehicle rating matches your travel trailer.

You may also want to read:
RV Tow Vehicle Basics... weight ratings, tow packages & hitches
 Safety Tips for RV Fifth Wheel & Travel Trailer Towing
Why You Should Know Your RV Travel Trailer Weight
How to weigh your Travel Trailer or Fifth Wheel

 

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