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Towing a Trailer
Towing Equipment and
Accessories
Towing generally requires a variety
of supplemental equipment. To
ensure the best quality, we
recommend that you purchase Acura
equipment whenever possible.
Discuss any additional needs with
your trailer sales or rental agency,
and make sure all equipment is
properly installed, maintained, and
also meets state regulations.
Hitch
We strongly recommend that you
have your Acura dealer install an
Acura hitch and use the required
fluid coolers. Using non-Acura
equipment may result in serious
damage to your vehicle.
Weight Distributing Hitch
A weight distributing hitch is not
recommended for use with your
MDX.
188
Driving
Table of Contents
Safety Chains
Always use safety chains when you
tow a trailer. Make sure the chains
are secured to the trailer and hitch,
and that they cross under the tongue
and can catch the trailer if it
becomes unhitched. Leave enough
slack to allow the trailer to turn
corners easily, but do not let the
chains drag on the ground.
Sway Control
This device is recommended if your
trailer tends to sway. Your trailer
maker can tell you what kind of sway
control you need and how to install it.
Transmission Fluid Cooler and
Power Steering Fluid Cooler
To help prevent overheating, a
heavy-duty transmission fluid cooler
and a heavy-duty power steering
fluid cooler are required for trailer
towing. These coolers are available
only from your Acura dealer.
Trailer Brakes
Acura requires that any trailer with a
total trailer weight of 1,000 lbs (455
kg) or more have its own brakes.
There are two common types of
trailer brakes: surge and electric.
Surge brakes are common for boat
trailers, since the brakes will get wet.
Electric brakes must be
electronically actuated. Do not
attempt to tap into your vehicle's
hydraulic system. See your brake
manufacturer for more information
on installing electric brakes.
Trailer Mirrors
Many states and provinces require
special exterior mirrors when towing
a trailer. Even if they don't, you
should install special mirrors if you
cannot clearly see behind you, or if
the trailer creates a blind spot.
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