Can I Add a Tow Hitch to My RV? | Owner's Manual Insights

If you're considering towing behind your RV, it’s crucial to understand the capabilities and limitations of your RV's hitch receiver. This article provides essential information regarding towing practices and the specifications. Be sure to review the Owners Manual for more information.

Towing Behind Your RV

Hitch Receiver Specifications

• Weight-Carrying Hitch Only:
  The hitch receiver installed on your RV is designed solely as a weight-carrying hitch. DO NOT use weight distribution bars or equipment when towing. Using these could result in damage to the RV or additional items not covered by Keystone's limited warranties. Improper towing equipment can lead to handling issues, loss of control, and serious accidents.
• Factory-Installed Hitch Requirement:
  If your RV does not have a factory-installed hitch receiver from Keystone, you should not tow anything behind your RV. The RV frame and bumper are not designed for towing, and attempting to do so can result in significant safety hazards.
• Towing Features:
  A properly equipped hitch for trailer towing will include:
• Tabs for safety chain attachment: a bracket for the trailer wiring plug, a label indicating the maximum towing capacity

Additional Towing: Multiple Trailer Combinations

For RVs equipped with a factory-installed hitch receiver (limited to certain fifth-wheel models), you can tow an additional trailer behind your RV:

• Weight-Carrying Hitch:
  The hitch receiver can be used as a weight-carrying hitch to tow a trailer. However, do not use a drawbar longer than 10 inches (254 mm). The maximum length is measured from the center of the fastening pin to the center of the ball.
• Towing Capacity:
• Maximum Trailer Tow Rating: 3,000 lbs. (1,361 kg) Maximum Tongue Weight: 300 lbs. (136 kg)

Using the Hitch Receiver for Cargo

The hitch receiver can also be utilized to attach a cargo basket or carrier for transporting additional items. When doing so, ensure that:

• The cargo carrier is properly secured to the hitch receiver.
• All cargo is securely fastened in place.
• The cargo weight carrying capacity includes the weight of the cargo carrier itself.

Maximum total weight for cargo carrying: 300 lbs. (136 kg).

Conclusion

In summary, whether you can add a tow hitch to your RV depends on your specific model and its factory features. For safe towing practices, always refer to your Owner’s Manual and adhere to the guidelines provided. Properly understanding your RV's towing capabilities will help ensure safe and enjoyable travel experiences. Contact Owner Relations for any additional questions.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is deemed to be true and accurate at the time of publication. However, due to the evolving nature of our products and services, there may be changes or updates that occur after this article was published. We encourage users to verify the contents and consult with their dealer or Keystone RV for the most current information. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or reach out to Keystone RV directly.