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A
B
~~
If you're using
a
weight-carrying hitch,
the
trailer
tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded
trailer weight (B). If you have
a
weight-distributing
hitch,
the
trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent of
the total loaded trailer weight (B).
After you've loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and
then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are
proper. If they aren't, you may be able to get them right
simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
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 r e x 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
vehiclee, including the weight of the trailer tongue.
Hitches
It's important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and sough roads are a
few reasons why you'll need
the
right hitch. Here are
some rules to follow:
The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for
hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other
bumper-type hitches to them. Use only a
frame-mounted hitch that does not attach
to
the bumper.
0
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.
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