Toyota 2006 Matrix Owner's Manual page 229

The load on either the front or rear
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axle resulting from distribution of
the gross vehicle weight on both
axles must not exceed the Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed
on the Certification Label.
'06 MATRIX_U (L/O 0508)
Total trailer weight Tongue load
Tongue load
100 = 9 to 11%
Total trailer weight
The trailer cargo load should be
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distributed so that the tongue load
is 9 to 11% of the total trailer
weight, not exceeding the maximum
of 68 kg (150 lb.). Never load the
trailer with more weight in the back
than in the front. About 60% of the
trailer load should be in the front
half of the trailer and the remaining
40% in the rear.
HITCHES
Use only a weight carrying
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designed for the total trailer weight.
Toyota does not recommend using a
weight distribution (load equalizing)
hitch.
The hitch must be bolted securely to
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the vehicle frame and installed accord-
ing to the hitch manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
The hitch ball should have a light coat
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of grease.
Toyota recommends that the
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hitch be removed when not towing to
prevent injury and/or damage by the
hitch in event of a rear end collision.
After removing the hitch, the installa-
tion area should be sealed to prevent
entry of exhaust fumes and mud.
NOTICE
Do not use an axle−mounting hitch as
it may cause damage to the axle
housing, wheel bearings, wheels and/
or tires.
hitch
trailer
219