2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Owner Manual - Page 442

440 STARTING AND OPERATING rear GAWR. Refer to "Vehicle Loading/Vehicle Certifica- Weight-Carrying Hitch tion Label" in "Starting and Operating" for further A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight, just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or information. some other connecting point of the vehicle. These kind of WARNING! hitches are the most popular on the market today and they are commonly used to tow small- and mediumIt is important that you do not exceed the maximum sized trailers. front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition can result if either rating is exceeded. You could lose Weight-Distributing Hitch A weight-distributing hitch system works by applying control of the vehicle and have a collision. leverage through spring (load) bars. They are typically used for heavier loads, to distribute trailer tongue weight Trailer Tongue Weight (TW) The TW is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball to the tow vehicle's front axle and the trailer axle(s). by the trailer. In most cases it should not be less than 10% When used in accordance with the manufacturers' direcor more than 15% of the trailer load. You must consider tions, it provides for a more level ride, offering more consistent steering and brake control, thereby enhancing this as part of the load on your vehicle. towing safety. The addition of a friction/hydraulic sway Frontal Area control also dampens sway caused by traffic and crossThe frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the winds, and contributes positively to tow vehicle and maximum width of the front of a trailer.