🔧 RV Care: Know Your Weight

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the weight of an RV.

• The size of the RV: Larger RVs will naturally weigh more than smaller ones.

• The type of RV: Class A motorhomes are typically the heaviest type of RV, followed by Class C motorhomes and travel trailers. Fifth wheels are the lightest type of RV.

• The materials used in construction: RVs made with heavier materials, such as fiberglass, will weigh more than those made with lighter materials, such as aluminum.

• The number of amenities: RVs with more amenities, such as slide-outs, air conditioning, and multiple TVs, will weigh more than those with fewer amenities.

• The weight of the passengers and cargo: The weight of the passengers and cargo inside the RV will also affect the overall weight of the RV.

It is important to understand the weight of your RV before you purchase it. This will help you to ensure that you have a tow vehicle that is capable of safely towing the RV. You should also make sure that you have enough space to park the RV and that you can access all of the amenities that you need.

Here are some of the most common weight measurements used to describe RVs:

• Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW): This is the weight of the RV without any passengers, cargo, or fluids.

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): This is the maximum weight that the RV can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, and fluids.

• Gross Cargo Carrying Capacity (GCCC): This is the amount of weight that can be safely added to the RV, in addition to the UVW.

• Tongue Weight: This is the weight of the RV that is supported by the hitch. It is important to make sure that the tongue weight is not too high, as this can cause the RV to sway while towing.

• Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): This is the maximum weight that each axle on the RV can safely carry.

• Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR): This is the maximum weight that can be safely towed by a tow vehicle, including the weight of the tow vehicle, the RV, and the cargo.

It is important to consult the owner's manual for your RV to get the most accurate weight information. You should also weigh your RV periodically to make sure that it is not overweight. If your RV is overweight, it can be dangerous to drive and can also damage the RV.