Trailer Towing 421 |
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. Never exceed 45 mph( 72 km / h) when towing a trailer in hilly country on hot days.
. When towing a trailer, steering, stability, stopping distance and braking performance will be different when compared to normal operation. For safety’ s sake, you should employ extra caution when towing a trailer and you should never drive at excessive speeds. You should also keep the following tips in mind:
. The braking power of the parking brake may not be sufficient when stronger braking power is needed( e. g., when parking on a steep slope while towing a trailer).
If your vehicle is equipped with SI-DRIVE, and when towing a trailer on an uphill slope, do not drive in the Intelligent( I) mode. It is recommend that you drive in the Sport( S) mode. However, it is possible to tow a trailer in any mode of the SI-DRIVE on a downhill slope.
! Before starting out on a trip s08al0501
. Check the towing regulations for trailer or caravan vehicles that vary by state / region. Failure to comply with the
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procedures set forth will not only compromise your safety, but will also negate your insurance coverage and / or may violate the state road and traffic acts and regulations.
. Check that the vehicle and vehicle-tohitch mounting are in good condition. If any problems are apparent, do not tow the trailer.
. Check that the vehicle rests horizontally with the trailer attached. If the vehicle is tipped sharply up at the front and down at the rear, check the total trailer weight, GVW, GAWs and tongue load again, then confirm that the load and its distribution are acceptable.
. Check that the tire rating and pressures are correct.
. Check that the vehicle and trailer are connected properly. Confirm that: – The trailer tongue is connected properly to the hitch ball.
– The trailer lights connector is connected properly and trailer’ s brake lights illuminate when the vehicle’ s brake pedal is pressed, and that the trailer’ s turn signal lights flash when the vehicle’ s turn signal lever is operated.
– The safety chains are connected properly.
– All cargo in the trailer is secured
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safely in position.
– The outside mirrors provide a good rearward field of view without a significant blind spot.
. Sufficient time should be taken to learn the“ feel” of the vehicle / trailer combination before starting out on a trip. In an area free of traffic, practice turning, stopping and backing up.
! Driving with a trailer s08al0502
. You should allow for considerably more stopping distance when towing a trailer. Avoid sudden braking because it may result in skidding or jackknifing and loss of control.
. Avoid uneven steering, sharp turns and rapid lane changes.
. Slow down before turning. Make a larger than normal turning radius because the trailer wheels will be closer than the vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. In a tight turn, the trailer could hit your vehicle.
. Crosswinds will adversely affect the handling of your vehicle and trailer, causing sway. Crosswinds can be due to weather conditions or the passing of large trucks or buses. If swaying occurs, firmly grip the steering wheel and promptly begin decelerating your vehicle at a gradual pace.
– CONTINUED –
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8
Driving Tips
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