Two Considerations for New RV Buyers

Recreational vehicles (RVs) can have many benefits compared to a fixed home. With more than 16,000 campgrounds nationwide, those who own RVs can travel for days, weeks, or even months and see the country in a way that those with a fixed home may not be able to.

RVs, like any home, can range in size and price. They are divided into two categories: a motorhome (which is motorized) and a towable (which is towed behind a car, truck, or van). According to CostHelper, a towable can range from a tent trailer at $3,000 to a toy hauler (maximum at $80,000). Motorhomes are designated by classes and can go anywhere between $40,000 to $800,000.

When it comes to buying a new RV, it needs at least the basics: a bed, a food preparation area, a table, and storage space. But there are the mechanics of an RV as well, so here are two things you need to look for when purchasing a new RV.

RV Trailer Brake Controllers

A brake controller for trailers is generally an OEM or aftermarket installed device. It is mounted to the driver?s side dashboard and utilizes a trailer?s electrical braking system when slowing down or coming to a halt. There?s a plus or minus aspect to the system so that someone operating a tow vehicle would be able to adjust it depending on the weight of the trailer.

While there are many kinds of brake controllers, an effective option is a hydraulic over electric controller that utilizes an electric current to control the braking of a trailer.

What is Trailer Sway Control

Trailer sway can be caused by the environment (crosswinds), poor trailer loading (load too far back), or malfunctions in the weight distribution system. Trailer sway devices come in two different types. There is the type that works to prevent swaying once the swaying has started, and the other works to prevent the swaying altogether.

The question What is Trailer Sway Control is important from a safety standpoint. It is a major cause of trailer accidents, with the image of a trailer fishtailing being enough to conjure a sick feeling. To increase safety and reduce trailer sway, some RV owners such a weight distribution hitch.

Weight distribution hitches utilize two weight measurements. There is the gross trailer weight, which is the complete weight of the trailer. And then there is the tongue weight, which is the amount of the weight of the trailer pressing down on the hitch.

Finding the right weight distribution hitch is important for safety.

Answering the question What is Trailer Sway Control ensures a greater deal of safety than if the question was unanswered. And like any investment, buying an RV requires a full-on understanding of the benefits, risks, and preventative measures associated with it.