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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
Certificationmire label on the driver's door edge,
above the door latch, 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:
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If you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than 2,000 Ibs. (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.
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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