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If you're using a "dead-weight" hitch, the
trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10% of
the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you
have a "weight-distributing" hitch, the
trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12% 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 limit for cold tires. You'll find these
numbers on the Certification 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.
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:
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.
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.
Sa#ety 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. Always leave just enough slack so
you can turn with your rig. And, never
allow safety chains to drag on the .ground.
Trailer Brakes
Does your trailer have its own brakes?
Be sure to read and follow the instructions
for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to
install, adjust and maintain them properly.
And because you have anti-lock brakes,
do not try to tap into your vehicle's brake
system. If you do, both brake systems
won't work well, or at all.
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