DRIvING
B - 7
B
the loaded trailer weight, but not to exceed the hitch rating. Tongue loads can
be adjusted by proper distribution of the load in the trailer, and can be checked
by weighing separately the loaded trailer and then the tongue.
The tongue weight (TW) at the hitch ball must be added to the GVW to prevent
exceeding your Sprinter towed vehicles or rear GAWR.
When towing trailers, motorhome tires should be inflated to the highest pres-
sures shown on the Sprinter Tire Information Placard. See Sprinter Manual for
its location. The Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) of this vehicle is reduced by
the amount that equals the trailer tongue load on the trailer hitch.
Checking Weights of Vehicle and Trailer
To assure that the tow vehicle and trailer comply with the maximum permissible
weight limits and to know the actual weights, have the loaded vehicle-trailer
combination (tow vehicle including driver, passengers, and cargo and trailer
fully loaded) weighed on a commercial scale as explained earlier in this sec-
tion.
Also check the vehicles front and rear axle weights and tongue weight. The val-
ues as measured must not exceed the Sprinter weight ratings listed on vehicle
information placards and in the Sprinter manual. These ratings are also listed in
the Specification section of this manual, page J-1. NOTE: Check the Sprinter
manual for all weights and tire information placard locations.
Attaching a Trailer
Please observe maximum permitted trailer dimensions (weight and length).
Most states and all Canadian provinces require safety chains between your tow
vehicle and trailer. The chains should be crisscrossed under the trailer tongue.
It must be attached to the hitch receiver, and not to the vehicles bumper or
axle. Be sure to leave enough slack in the chains to permit turning corners.
Most states and all Canadian provinces required a separate brake system
for towing trailers.
Warning: The towing vehicle’s braking system is rated for op-
eration at GVWR (GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING), NOT at the GCWR
(GROSS COMBINED WEIGHT RATING). A separate functioning brake
system is required for any towed vehicles or trailers weighing more than
1000 lbs. (450 kg) when fully loaded. NEVER exceed the GVWR (GROSS
VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING), or the GAWR (GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING)
specified on a motorhome certification label. Also NEVER, exceed the
