If you’re using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer
tongue (A) should weigh
10
percent of
the
total loaded
trailer weight (B). If you have a weight-distributing
hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh
12
percent 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 upper
limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the
Tire-Loading Information label at the rear edge of the
driver’s door or see “Loading Your Vehicle”
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:
0
0
The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for
hitches.
Do
not attach rental hitches or other
bumper-type hitches to them. Use only a
frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to
the bumper.
Will you have to make any holes in the body
of
your
vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do,
then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove
the hitch. If you don’t seal them, deadly carbon
monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your
vehicle (see “Carbon Monoxide” in the Index).
Dirt
and water can, too.
Safety Chains
You should always attach chains between your vehicle
and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue
of
the
trailer
so
that the tongue will not drop to the road
if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions
about safety chains may be provided by the hitch
manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the
manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety
chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always
leave just enough slack
so
you can turn with your rig.
And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.
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