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Hitching Up

The Aurora 16BHX is a travel trailer that requires a proper hitch setup on your tow vehicle. Always verify your tow vehicle’s ratings before towing.

SpecAurora 16BHX
GVWR~4,500–5,000 lbs
Hitch ball size2-5/16 inch
Hitch classClass III or IV
Weight distributionRecommended if tow vehicle is light
Brake controllerRequired (electric brakes)
  • 2-5/16” hitch ball (correct size is critical — wrong size can cause trailer separation)
  • Class III or IV receiver hitch
  • Weight distribution hitch (if recommended for your setup)
  • Sway control (optional but recommended)
  • 7-pin trailer wiring connector
  • Brake controller (in-cab)
  • Safety chains (2)
  • Breakaway cable
  1. Back up the tow vehicle until the hitch ball is directly under the trailer coupler.
  2. Lower the tongue jack until the coupler sits on the ball — don’t go too low.
  3. Latch the coupler — push the latch lever down and lock it. Give the trailer a firm upward tug to confirm it’s locked.
  4. Raise the tongue jack fully — pin or crank it up so it clears the ground.
  5. Attach safety chains — cross them under the tongue in an X pattern. Leave enough slack to turn but not drag.
  6. Connect the 7-pin connector — plug into the tow vehicle’s trailer socket.
  7. Connect the breakaway cable — clip to a secure point on the tow vehicle (not the hitch ball mount).
  8. Test the lights — have someone check brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
  9. Test the brakes — pull forward slowly and apply the trailer brake controller manually to verify trailer brakes engage.

If using a weight distribution hitch:

  1. Attach the head to the ball mount.
  2. Insert the spring bars into the head.
  3. Lift the spring bars using the jack until the tow vehicle returns to its normal ride height.
  4. Lock the bars in place.

Adjust the tension so the front and rear of the tow vehicle are level (measure before and after hitching).

  • Coupler is latched and locked
  • Tongue jack is fully raised
  • Safety chains are crossed and attached
  • 7-pin connector is plugged in
  • Breakaway cable is clipped
  • All lights working (brake, turn, running)
  • Trailer brakes responding
  • All exterior compartments are closed and latched
  • Stabilizer jacks are fully raised
  • Sewer hose stored in bumper
  • Water hose disconnected and stored
  • Shore power cord disconnected and stored