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Trailer towing
Trailer lights
Trailer lights and equipment must comply
with federal, state, and local regulations.
Check with your local recreational vehicle
dealer for the requirements in your area, and
use only equipment designed for your vehi-
cle.
6
Since lighting and wiring vary by trailer type
and brand, you should have a qualified tech-
nician install a suitable connector between the
vehicle and the trailer. Improper equipment or
installation can cause damage to your vehi-
cle's electrical system and affect your vehicle
warranty.
Additional trailer equipment
Many states and Canadian provinces require
special outside mirrors when towing a trailer.
Even if not required, you should install spe-
cial mirrors if you cannot clearly see behind
you, or if the trailer creates a blind spot.
Ask your trailer sales or rental agency if any
other items are recommended or required for
your towing situation.
6-14
Driving safety
Operating hints
WARNING
If you have a rear window open and you
tow a trailer with your vehicle, carbon
monoxide gas which you cannot see or
smell could come into your vehicle. It can
cause unconsciousness or death. Refer to
"Exhaust system" on page 9-24.
To maximize your safety when towing a
trailer:
Have your exhaust system inspected for
leaks, and make necessary repairs before
starting on your trip.
Keep the rear windows closed.
If exhaust does come into your vehicle
through a window or another opening,
drive with your front, main heating or
cooling system on and with the blower on
any speed. This will bring fresh, outside
air into your vehicle. Do not use recircula-
tion because it only recirculates the air
inside your vehicle. Refer to "Air selection
switch" on page 7-9.
Driver preparation
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of
experience.
Before setting out for the open road, you'll
want to get to know your trailer. Acquaint
I n f o r ma t i o n P r o v i d e d b y :
yourself with the feel of handling and braking
with the added weight of the trailer. 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 without a trailer.
Vehicle preparation
Before you start, check the trailer hitch,
safety chains, tires and mirror adjustment.
Tire
Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the
cold inflation pressure listed in the manual.
You'll find these numbers on the tire and
loading information placard at the sill of the
driver's door.
Refer to "Tire inflation pressures" on page
9-18.
Following distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle
ahead as you would when driving your vehi-
cle without a trailer. This can help you avoid
situations that require heavy braking and sud-
den turns.
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