NOTICE:
Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your
vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by
your warranty.
To
pull a trailer correctly, follow
the advice in this part, and see your dealer for
important information about towing a trailer
with your vehicle.
Every vehicle is ready for some trailer towing. If yours
was built with trailering options, as many are, it’s ready
for heavier trailers. But trailering is different than just
driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes
in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful,
safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be
used properly.
That’s the reason for this part. In
it
are many
time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules.
Many of these are important for your safety and that of
your passengers.
So
please read this section carefully
before you pull a trailer.
If You
Do
Decide
To
Pull
A
Trailer
If
you do, here are some important points:
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There
are
many different laws, including speed limit
restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure
your rig will be legal, not only where you live but
also where you’ll be driving.
A
good source for this
information can be state or provincial police.
Consider using a sway control if your trailer will
weigh
2,000
lbs.
(900
kg) or less. You should always
use a sway control if your trailer will weigh more
than
2,000
lbs.
(900
kg). You can ask a hitch dealer
about sway controls.
Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first
500
miles
(800
km)
your new vehicle is driven. Your engine,
axle or other parts could be damaged.
Then, during the fist
500
miles
(800
km)
that you
tow a trailer, don’t drive over
50
mph
(80
km/h)
and
don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your
engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.
You should use DRIVE (D) (or, as you need to, a
lower gear) when towing a trailer. Operating your
vehicle in DRIVE (D) when towing a trailer will
minimize heat buildup and extend the life of
your transmission.
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