Preparing To Tow; Hitches; Safety; Trailer Brakes - Mazda 2005 Tribute Owner's Manual

Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight
exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in:
• engine damage
• transmission damage
• structural damage
• loss of control
• personal injury

Preparing to tow

Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is
properly attached to your vehicle. See your authorized Mazda dealer.

Hitches

Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle bumper. Use a load
carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that
10–15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.
Safety chains
Always connect the trailer's safety chains to the frame or hook retainers
of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer's safety chains, cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.
If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency
gives to you.
Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.

Trailer brakes

Electric, manual, automatic or surge-type brakes, if compatible with the
vehicle, are safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer's
specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal
regulations.
WARNING: Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system
directly to your vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle may not
have enough braking power and your chances of having a
collision greatly increase.
The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the
GVWR not GCWR.
Trailer lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. See your
authorized Mazda dealer for proper instructions and equipment for
hooking up trailer lamps.
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2005 Mazda Tribute (j14), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002),
Market: USA_English (fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
155