Ford 1996 Contour Manual page 158

6
Using the hitch
Your vehicle uses a load carrying hitch. Because this type of
hitch places the tongue load of a trailer on the rear wheels of
your vehicle, you must distribute the load in your trailer so that
10 to 15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.
Tie down the load so that it does not shift and change the
weight on the hitch. This will prevent damage to your vehicle
and make your vehicle easier to handle.
Connecting the safety chains
Always attach the trailer's safety chains to your vehicle. They
help protect your trailer if the hitch breaks.
To connect the trailer's safety chains:
Cross the chains under the trailer tongue and attach them to
1.
your vehicle's frame or hook retainers. Never attach the
safety chains to your vehicle's bumper. The bumper is not
designed to bear the weight of a trailer.
Make sure that you leave enough slack in the chains to
2.
allow you to turn corners.
If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental
agency gives you.
Driving Your Contour
159