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Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires
Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the upper
limit for cold tires. You'll find these numbers on the
-
Tire
Loading Information label at the rear edge of the
driver's door or see "Loading Your Vehicle" in the
Index. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW
limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the
trailer tongue.
Hitches
It's important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads
are a few reasons why you'll need the right hitch.
Here are some rules to follow:
D
The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended
for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other
-
bumper
type hitches to it. Use only a frame
hitch that does not attach to the bumper.
D
Will you have to make any holes in the body of
your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you
do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you
remove the hitch. If you don't seal them, deadly
carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get
into your vehicle. See "Carbon Monoxide" in the
Index. Dirt and water can, too.
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. Instructions
about safety chains may be provided by the hitch
manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the
manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety
chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always
leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig.
And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs. (450 kg)
loaded, then it needs its own brakes
be adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions
for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, adjust
-
mounted
and maintain them properly. Because you have anti
brakes, do not try to tap into your vehicle's brake
system. If you do, both brake systems won't work
well, or at all.
--
and they must
-
lock
4-35
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