Trailer Hitch - Mazda J16R Manual

J16R_8S06-EA-03H_Edition3.book Page 14 Thursday, March 4, 2004 4:14 PM
Before Driving Your Mazda
Towing
Tow Loads:
Attempting to tow loads greater than those specified is dangerous as it may cause
serious handling and performance problems that could result in personal injury or
vehicle damage, or both. Always keep tow loads within specified limits in the Trailer
Towing-Load Table.
Trailer Loading:
Loading the trailer with more weight in the rear than in the front is dangerous. Doing
so could cause you to lose control. The trailer tongue load must be 10%-15% of the
total trailer load (sum of the weights of the trailer and cargo). Try to load the trailer
with the weight about 60% toward the front and 40% toward the rear.
Determining Total Trailer Weight and Tongue Load:
Attempting to tow loads without determining the total trailer weight and tongue load is
dangerous. Trailer sway from crosswinds, rough roads or other causes could result in
loss of control and a serious accident. Always have the total trailer weight and tongue
load determined prior to departure.
The total trailer weight and tongue load can be determined by weighing the trailer on
platform scales at a highway weight station or a trucking company.
M Trailer Hitch
Use only a hitch ball recommended by the trailer manufacturer that conforms to the gross
trailer weight requirement.
When not towing a trailer, remove the trailer hitch (if detachable) to reduce the possibility
of damage as a result of the vehicle being rear-ended.
When the trailer load is more than 907 kg (2,000 lb), use a frame-mounted weight-
distributing hitch.
4-14
Black process 45.0° 240.0 LPI
Form No. 8S06-EA-03H
WARNING
CAUTION