Section 3: Pre-Travel Information
37
Equipment that sometimes gives autos, trucks and sport utility vehicles a softer ride can
accentuate swaying when pulling a RV. Suspension that is too stiff will increase vibration,
bounce and accelerate wear of your tow vehicle and RV combination.
Your recreation vehicle manufacturer 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 sure your
dealer is aware of the tow vehicle you are using so a compatible hookup is achieved.
Travel Trailer Hitch Weight
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).
Travel Trailer Hitch Height & Hitch Ball
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. 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 either 2” or 2-5/16” (consult
your dealer for assistance).
Travel Trailer Hitching Procedure
The following procedure will help to assist you in securely hooking up your recreation
vehicle to your tow vehicle.
1.
Make sure the trailer wheels are blocked.
2.
Turn the tongue jack crank to raise the travel trailer tongue above the hitch ball.
3.
Open the coupler latch on the travel trailer hitch.
4.
Back the tow vehicle into the proper position.
5.
Turn the tongue jack crank to lower the coupler onto the hitch ball.
6.
Close the coupler latch after it is completely seated.
7.
Install the (customer supplied) weight distributing bars (equalizers) as directed by the
OEM.
This unit hitch
height is:
Using an oversized or undersized hitch can cause damage to the RV frame.
Jayco cannot be responsible for the tow vehicle suspension system. The final
ball height after the tow vehicle/travel trailer combination is completely
hooked up is a factor that must be considered. To avoid overloading your
trailer axles and minimize possible handling difficulties, your trailer should
be level when hooked to your tow vehicle. Do not overload your tow vehicle.
Table of Contents
Maintenance Record
Summary of Contents for Hummingbird 2018
Page 1: ...Owner sManual PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER 0283457 2018 2018 Towables...
Page 2: ......
Page 4: ......
Page 10: ......
Page 12: ...8 Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 28: ...Section 1 Warranty Service 24 Notes Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 46: ...Section 3 Pre Travel Information 42 Notes Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 64: ...Section 4 Vehicle Operation 60 Notes Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 136: ...Section 10 Appliances 132 Notes Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 138: ...Section 11 Electronics 134 Notes Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 149: ...Section 13 Exterior 145 Travel Trailers Sealant Diagram Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 150: ...Section 13 Exterior 146 Notes Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 154: ...Section 14 Travel Camping Storage Checklists 150 Notes Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
Page 159: ...Section 15 Additional Information 155 Notes Table of Contents Maintenance Record...
