Chrysler PACIFICA 2017 Owner's Manual page 424

422 STARTING AND OPERATING
Tongue Weight (TW)
The tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the
hitch ball by the trailer. You must consider this as part of
the load on your vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the
maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The trailer sway control can be a mechanical telescoping
link that can be installed between the hitch receiver and the
trailer tongue that typically provides adjustable friction
associated with the telescoping motion to dampen any
unwanted trailer swaying motions while traveling.
If equipped, the electronic Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
recognizes a swaying trailer and automatically applies
individual wheel brakes and/or reduces engine power to
attempt to eliminate the trailer sway.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight,
just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some other
connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of hitches are the
most popular on the market today and they are commonly
used to tow small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing system works by applying leverage
through spring (load) bars. They are typically used for heavier
loads to distribute trailer tongue weight to the tow vehicle's
front axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in accordance
with the manufacturer's directions, it provides for a more level
ride, offering more consistent steering and brake control
thereby enhancing towing safety. The addition of a friction/
hydraulic sway control also dampens sway caused by traffic
and crosswinds and contributes positively to tow vehicle and
trailer stability. Trailer sway control and a weight distributing
(load equalizing) hitch are recommended for heavier Tongue
Weights (TW) and may be required depending on vehicle and
trailer configuration/loading to comply with Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.
WARNING!
• An improperly adjusted Weight Distributing Hitch
system may reduce handling, stability, braking per-
formance, and could result in a collision.
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