Trailer Brakes; Driving With A Trailer - Cadillac 2004 DeVille Owner's Manual

Hitches
It is important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are
a few reasons why you will need the right hitch. Here
are some rules to follow:
•
The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for
hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other
bumper-type hitches to it. 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 do not seal them,
deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust
can get into your vehicle. See Engine Exhaust
on page 2-40. 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.
4-42
Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with
your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the
ground.

Trailer Brakes

Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try to tap into
your vehicle's hydraulic brake system. If you do, both
brake systems will not work well, or at all. If you tow more
than 1,000 lbs. (450 kg), use trailer brakes. Be sure to
follow the instructions that come with the trailer or from
the brake manufacturer.
Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer
brakes so you will be able to maintain them properly.

Driving with a Trailer

Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
Before setting out for the open road, you will want to get
to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer.
And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving
is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive
as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform
(and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector,
lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has
electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and
then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure
the brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.