TODAY'S TOW VEHICLES MAKE TRAILERING EASY

RESTON, Va. --Matching the right tow vehicle with an appropriate trailer is easier than ever, say RV and automotive industry experts, due to the broad availability of high power, quality performance tow vehicles.

Detroit's bit-three automakers all have reported increases in sales of light- and heavy-duty tow packages for their new-model full-size and light trucks, indicating the growing popularity of trailering. Manufacturers also reported increases in tow package options on family vehicles including mini passenger vans, 4 x 4s and station wagons.

Today's market features a large selection of tow vehicles -- many with sophisticated engineering packages providing greater towing power, superior maneuverability and improved brake capacity. Some of Detroit's newest releases are equipped with higher horsepower-per-cubic-inch ratios, fuel-injected engines, increased tow ratings and sophisticated rear wheel anti-lock brake systems.

Conversion vehicles, 4 x 4s, light trucks, most full-size and many midsize cars, for example, come with engines that offer fuel economy and greater horsepower, making them choice tow vehicles. In fact, trailer buyers often already own an ideal tow vehicle, as larger cars are back in vogue and vans and light trucks are enjoying a popularity boom.

Even many of today's compact cars can tow smaller, lightweight trailers. Generally, only tiny, mostly imported subcompacts are not recommended for any towing, according to auto manufacturer guidelines.

For many of the nation's 25 million RV enthusiasts, towing is a favored option because it offers great flexibility. There are no special licenses required and by paying proper attention to the difference in the size, height and weight when the RV is hitched to the tow vehicle, experienced drivers will find it easy to take the wheel. Towing also allows travelers to unhitch their trailer at the campsite and use their van, pickup or car for sightseeing or errands.

Also popular because of their economical price tags, towables represent tow-thirds of all RVs owned in the United States, according to a University of Michigan study. Folding camping trailer prices begin near $3,200, making them the least expensive RV type; travel trailers can be purchased for as little as $8,000. Slide-in truck campers, which are also classified as towable RVs, fall in between at an entry level price of about $5,000.

For advice on which tow vehicles are suitable for the towable RV you're interested in, consult the RV manufacturer's guide. Much like an auto owner's manual, the guide is a reference tool that reviews operational aspects of an RV. If you have further questions or want to explore additional tow combinations, visit your RV dealer or consult a towing guide available from auto manufacturers.

If you plan to tow with a Chevrolet vehicle, visit your local dealer to use their computerized system, "Spec Manager," for towing information by vehicle type. For information on Chrysler vehicles stop by a dealership for a copy of their 8-page "Dodge Trailer Towing Guide."

Ford owners can write for a copy of "Ford's RV and Trailer Towing Guide," Ford Motor -- Ford Division, 300 Rennaissance Center, P.O Box 43360, Detroit, MI 48243. For a copy of the "GMC Recreational and Trailer Guide" write to GMC Truck, General Motors Corp., Customer Service Department, 31 Judson St., Pontiac, MI 48342.

Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) suggests you discuss these basic factors with your RV and auto dealers when evaluating trailer/tow vehicle options: engine horsepower, transmission and axle capacity, cooling equipment, suspension, springs and shocks, power brakes, power steering and battery compartment.

You'll also want your RV dealer's advice on the choice and installation of a hitch, which is key to a safe towing system, and on special towing packages to improve towing capacity. Towing packages, which customarily offer more powerful suspensions and extra capacity cooling systems, can often be added to your new or used tow vehicle at the dealership.

Towable RVs are available in a wide range of types, sizes and price ranges, each offering its own advantages related to economy, spaciousness, convenience and comfort. Towable RVs include:

Folding Camping Trailer -- A lightweight unit with collapsible sides that fold for aerodynamic towing by a motorized vehicle, even by some compact cars. When set up, they provide kitchen, dining and sleeping facilities for up to eight people. These are the least expensive RVs, with prices starting as low as $3,200 and topping out at around $11,000.

Travel Trailer -- A unit designed to be towed by a car, van or pickup. Travel trailers provide comforts such as kitchen, toilet, sleeping, dining and living facilities, electric and water systems and modern appliances. Travel trailers sleep four to eight people. Prices for conventional travel trailers start a t $8,000 and climb as high as $49,000 depending on size and features. Fifth-wheel models, which are built to be towed by pickups, sell for between $11,000 and as much as $82,000, with an average retail price of $21,000.

Truck Camper -- A camping unit that is loaded onto, or affixed to, the bed or chassis of a pickup. Many have kitchen and bathroom facilities. Truck campers sleep two to six people and sell for prices starting at $5,000.

RVIA is the national association representing the manufacturers and component parts suppliers, who together produce 95 percent of all RVs manufactured in the U.S.