Towing Terms You Should Know

Towing Terms 101

When it comes to towing, it can sometimes feel like it has its own language. Before you decide to hitch anything up, check out this comprehensive guide provided by Walt Massey Chevrolet Franklinton to get the basics down.

Towing Glossary

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum weight that a vehicle is designed to carry. Includes the weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and any towing capacity. Exceeding this weight limit can be very dangerous on the road.

Payload Capacity: This refers to the total weight capacity of the trailer itself. You can calculate this by subtracting the weight of your trailer from the GVWR.

Coupler: A mechanism that connects the ball of your vehicle to the trailer tongue. These come in a variety of makes and sizes.

Tongue Weight: The amount of weight that is pressed down on the hitch ball by the trailer coupler. For proper handling and safety, the tongue weight needs to be 10-15 percent of the total trailer weight.

Sway: The side-to-side movement of a trailer while it’s being towed is called the sway. The sway can be caused by wind, high speeds, poor weight distribution, or other similar factors. Having a sway control system can decrease this movement and increase safety.

Breakaway Switch: This is a safety device that activates the electric brakes on the trailer if, for some reason, it becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle.

Hitch Glossary

Gooseneck: A trailer that attaches to a hitch ball that is attached to the tow vehicle.

Fifth Wheel: A hitch specially designed for towing heavy-duty pieces like campers or large trailers.

Fixed Tongue: A more flexible hitch, the Fixed Tongue is permanent and has a fixed ball mount. This is ideal for those who tow the same trailer consistently.

Bolt-On: Ideal for lighter and moderate towing jobs, the bolt-on is attached to the vehicle frame.

Satisfy Your Towing Needs at Walt Massey Chevrolet Franklinton

Now that you’ve got the basics of towing down make sure you have the correct vehicle to handle the job. At Walt Massey Chevrolet Franklinton, we have a variety of vehicles with impressive towing capabilities and will supply you with all the tools and knowledge you need to tow successfully.

Don’t wait – schedule your appointment today.