- Fifth wheels must be within the Gross Vehicle Weight Ratio (GVWR) of a truck's towing capacity. Take your loaded camper to a weigh scale to learn your actual weight.
- Avoid collisions with low objects by knowing your fifth wheel's size limitations. Your total height includes all roof accessories, including vents.
- Learn to back up properly by remembering that trailers veer in the opposite direction the steering wheel is turning. Test this concept by placing either hand on the bottom of the wheel, and point your thumb out. As you turn, the trailer will head in the direction of your thumb.
- Even expensive fifth wheels are assembled with staples, and motion makes parts loosen. Investigate drips and odd noises immediately.
- Prevent hitch failure with this departure test: After connecting the trailer to your truck, unchock your wheels and raise the camper legs six inches. Pull away and manually apply the trailer brakes using only your brake controller.
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