Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires
Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the
upper limit for cold tires. You will find these
numbers on the Certification/Tire Label at the rear
edge of the driver’s door, or see Loading Your
Vehicle on page 332. Do not go over the
GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of
the trailer tongue.
Hitches
It is important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by, and rough
roads are a few reasons why you will need
the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow:
• If you will be pulling a trailer that, when loaded,
will weigh more than 2,000 lbs (900 kg), use a
properly mounted, weight-carrying hitch and
sway control of the proper size. This
equipment is very important for proper vehicle
loading and good handling while driving.
• Will you have to make any holes in the body of
your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch?
If you do, remember to seal the holes when you
remove the hitch. If you do not seal them,
deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your
exhaust can get into your vehicle. See Engine
Exhaust on page 140. 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 to help
prevent the tongue from contacting 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. Never allow safety
chains to drag on the ground.
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