There’s tons of misunderstandings and misconceptions when it comes to how to tow safety. Here’s our list of the top towing misconceptions, as prepared by the towing experts at Chicago Towing.

Towing Terminology

• GCWR – Gross Combination Weight Rating – The highest weight that the trailer and towing vehicle can tow together
• GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating – The maximum weight rating for a certain vehicle that cannot be exceeded
• Curb Weight – The weight of a trailer or vehicle including all equipment and full tanks
• Tongue Weight – The downward weight applied from the trailer’s tongue to the vehicle’s hitch

Misconception – Upgrading Trailer Hitches Increases your Towing Capacity

Upgrading a trailer hitch can maximize the capabilities for towing of a vehicle, but it doesn’t cancel out the maximum weight capacity set by the truck manufacturer, which should never be exceeded.

Misconception – It’s OK to Estimate the Tongue Weight

Many people guess the vehicle’s tongue weight – this isn’t safe. You want to make sure that the load is equally distributed across all vehicle’s axels, in order to avoid accidents.

Misconception – Trailer bearings don’t need maintenance.

Trailer bearings are in the trailer’s wheel mechanisms, and ALWAYS need maintenance. They should be regularly inspected, cleaned, and repacked with fresh grease.