A
B
If you’re using a “dead-weight” hitch, the trailer tongue
(A)
should weigh
10%
of
the total loaded trailer weight
(B).
If you have a
“weight-distributing” hitch, the trailer tongue
(A)
should weigh 12% of the
total loaded trailer weight
(B).
After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue,
separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to
get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
Total Weight
on
Your Vehicle’s Tires
Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the limit for cold tires. You’ll find
these numbers on the Certification label on the driver’s door lock pillar or
see “Tire Loading” in the Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW
limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue.
Hitches
It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks
going by, and rough roads are a
few
reasons why you’ll need the right hitch.
Here are some rules to follow:
If you use a step bumper hitch, and your trailer tongue has a V-shaped
foot, your bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Check the distance
from the front edge
of
the foot to the middle of the hitch ball socket. If
the distance is less than
12 inches, take the foot
off
the trailer tongue.
If
you’ll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than
2,000
pounds
(900
kg), be sure to use
a
properly mounted,
weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This
equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good
handling when you’re driving.
If your vehicle has the bumper delete option,
do
not bolt any type
of
hitch
to
the close-out panel. The close-out panel will not support a
hitch.
4-45
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