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Hitches
Safety Chains
It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a
few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are
some rules to follow:
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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.
0
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.
You
should always attach chains between your vehicle
and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue
of
the trailer
so
that the tongue will not drop to 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.
And, never allow safety chains to drag
on
the ground.
Trailer
Brakes
Does your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to
read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes
so you’ll be able
to
install, adjust and maintain
them properly.
Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try to tap into
your vehicle’s brake system.
If
you do, both brake
systems won’t work well, or at all.
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