Jayco 2009 Octane ZX, Owner'S Manual, Page: 27 / 102

SECTION 3
PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION
23
Hitch selection is important because it affects
the towing and handling characteristics of
your RV. There are many kinds of hitches
available for various uses and assuring that
you have the correct hitch installed is critical
to a safe towing experience. Ask your dealer
about the proper class and type of hitch you
need to purchase for your individual tow
vehicle/RV combination (a travel trailer
requires a frame mounted hitch).
The hitch manufacturer assigns a hitch class
rating based on the capacity that hitch has for
towing and a weight classification. The weight
classification is determined from the hitch’s
weight carrying capacity (also known as the
tongue weight on a travel trailer). Before
selecting a hitch, you must know your GVWR
and tongue weight or pin box rating.
Maintain the proper tongue weight of the
trailer. Stay within the target range of 10%-
15% of the overall gross weight (travel trailer
weight plus contents). Equipment that
sometimes gives autos, trucks and sport utility
vehicles a softer ride can accentuate swaying
when pulling a RV; conversely, suspension
that is too stiff will increase vibration, bounce
and accelerate wear of your tow vehicle and
trailer. Educate yourself to protect you, your
family and other motorists.
The rating of the hitch package purchased
should be equal to or greater than the RV’s
GVWR and the hitch weight (or pin box
rating).
H
ITCH
H
EIGHT
& H
ITCH
B
ALL
To determine the hitch
height for your model,
make sure that the trailer
is level. When the loaded
RV is hitched to the tow
vehicle, check the hitch
ball height. This can be
determined by measuring the distance from
the center of the hitch ball to the ground.
Record this number in the box for future
reference.
Adjust the equalizing bars of the hitch
assembly so that the tow vehicle and the
trailer are essentially level. A high hitch will
transfer weight behind the axles and cause
the vehicle to fishtail. A low hitch will transfer
additional weight to the hitch. Refer to the
hitch manufacturer instructions to adjust the
weight-distributing hitch to the proper height.
If you have additional questions, consult with
your dealer. Jayco cannot be responsible for
the suspension system of any tow vehicle.
There are a variety of tow vehicle suspension
systems available that will affect the ball
height, stability and levelness of a hooked up
RV. Make certain your dealer is aware of the
tow vehicle you are using so a compatible
hookup is achieved. Depending on the model,
your required travel trailer hitch ball diameter
is 2-5/16” (consult your dealer for assistance).
S
WAY
C
ONTROL
(C
USTOMER
S
UPPLIED
)
Sway control devices are available to reduce
the sway produced by crosswinds, air
displacement caused by other vehicles
passing you in transit, incorrect weight
distribution, excessive speed, the RV tires
dropping onto the shoulder of the road, etc.
You will also want to discuss this purchase
with your Dealer.
The use of a sway control device will help to
control the side-to-side movement and keep
sway in check.
Suggestions for sway situations:
‰
Slowly ease your foot off the accelerator.
‰
Turn the steering wheel as little as
possible. Natural lag time reaction when
counter-steering to correct sway could
possibly make it worse.
‰
If the trailer is equipped with electric
brakes, using the hand control will help to
keep the vehicles aligned.
This unit hitch
height is:
A sway control device (customer supplied)
should be used with your tow vehicle/travel
trailer combination. Consult with your
Dealer to obtain the proper equipment for
your needs.