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182
4-1. Before driving
Safety checks before towing
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Check that the maximum load limit for the towing hitch/bracket and hitch ball is not
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exceeded. Bear in mind that the coupling weight of the trailer will add to the load
exerted on the vehicle. Also make sure that the total load exerted on the vehicle is
within the range of the weight limits. (P. 179)
Ensure that the trailer load is secure.
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Supplementary outside rear view mirrors should be added to the vehicle if the traffic
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behind cannot be clearly seen with standard mirrors. Adjust the extending arms of
these mirrors on both sides of the vehicle so that they always provide maximum visibility
of the road behind.
The trailer ball is set up at the proper height for the coupler on the trailer.
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Maintenance
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Maintenance must be performed more frequently when using the vehicle for towing
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due to the greater weight burden placed on the vehicle compared to normal driving.
Retighten all bolts securing the hitching ball and bracket after towing for approximately
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1000 km (600 miles).
If trailer sway occurs
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One or more factors (crosswinds, passing vehicles, rough roads, etc.) can adversely
affect handling of your vehicle and trailer, causing instability.
If trailer swaying occurs:
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• Firmly grip the steering wheel. Steer straight ahead.
Do not try to control trailer swaying by turning the steering wheel.
• Begin releasing the accelerator pedal immediately but very gradually to reduce
speed.
Do not increase speed. Do not apply vehicle brakes.
If you make no extreme correction with the steering or brakes, your vehicle and trailer
should stabilize (if enabled, Trailer Sway Control can also help to stabilize the vehicle and
trailer.).
After the trailer swaying has stopped:
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• Stop in a safe place. Get all occupants out of the vehicle.
• Check the tires of the vehicle and the trailer.
• Check the load in the trailer.
Make sure the load has not shifted.
Make sure the tongue weight is appropriate, if possible.
• Check the load in the vehicle.
Make sure the vehicle is not overloaded after occupants get in.
If you cannot find any problems, the speed at which trailer swaying occurred is beyond
the limit of your particular vehicle-trailer combination.
Drive at a lower speed to prevent instability. Remember that swaying of the towing vehi-
cle-trailer increases as speed increases.
GX460_OM_OM60R28E_(GE)
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