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when you remove the hitch. If you don't seal them, deadly carbon
monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your vehicle (see
Index under "Carbon Monoxide"). Dirt and water can, too.
attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to them.
The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches. Do not
Safety 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. 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
Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll
be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly.
Driving with a Trailer
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount
of experience. Before setting
out for the open road, you'll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint
yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of
the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is
now a good deal longer and not nearly so responsive as your vehicle is by
itself.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform, safety chains,
electrical connector, lights, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has
electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the
trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This
lets you check your electrical connection at the same
time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load
is secure,
and that the lights and any trailer brakes are still working.
r
c .
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