Knowing What/How Much You Can Tow

Having a motorhome might be one of the most significant investments you could make. The freedom of choosing where to live gives a new meaning to “Life on the Road.” You will need a few tips on what and how much you can tow.

Figure Out the Class of your RV Before Towing

You need to know the towing capacity. This is the maximum weight limit that your vehicle can tow. Add the RV’S Gross Vehicle Weight plus the total weight from passengers to liquids. You can easily find this information on your vehicle’s manufacturer. 

Depending on the class, your vehicle will have a different capacity to tow. If you have a Class A motorhome, you will probably be able to pull a truck/car. Nevertheless, you can only tow one single vehicle with this type of motorhome. On the other hand, Class B can tow a small vehicle or trailer. Class B+ also allows you to drag one or two thousand pounds more. And lastly, Class C has a truck chassis that can tow from a small vehicle to a commercial truck, depending on the rating this was built on.

Here’s your motorhome towing capacity based on class:

Class A: 5,000-10,000 pounds

Class B and B+: 3,500-5,000 pounds

Class C: 5,000 pounds

Super Class C: 40,000 pounds

What Affects the Towing Capacity?

The capacity to tow is mainly based on the design of the vehicle. These are some factors that affect the towing capacity:

  • Engine
  • Transmission
  • Axles
  • chassis 
  • The overall weight of the motorhome 

What Can You Tow?

RV and Motorhomes can tow many things. The class rating and chassis will measure the limit. Your average RV should be able to haul cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats. Remember that you must be sure the added weight does not exceed the critical towing weight limits. You can find that number on the motorhome’s Safety Compliance Certification Label. When it comes to towing tips, remember that it’s all about the way you have the load distributed. If this is your first time loading your motorhome, consider speaking with experts to learn the best way around it. 

Geraldine Orentas is a writer in partnership with fence & event rental supplier, Viking Fence.

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