Subaru Outback Manuals 2018 Outback Owner's Manual | Page 367

Driving tips/Trailer hitch (Outback – if equipped) CAUTION . When you use the rope hooks, always secure the rope at all four hook points. . Do not tighten the rope exces- sively. Otherwise, it may lead to damage to the vehicle body or cargo. . Check that the rope is not loose before driving the vehicle. . When you use the rope hooks, never exceed the maximum load limit. Load limit: Observe the load limit that is indicated on the rope hook. Trailer hitch (Outback – if equipped) S08AK WARNING . Never exceed the maximum weight specified for the trailer hitch. Exceeding the maximum weight could cause an accident resulting in serious personal in- juries. Permissible trailer weight changes depending on the situa- tion. For possible recommenda- tions and limitations, refer to “Trailer towing (Outback)” F8- 22. . Trailer brakes are required when the towing load exceeds 1,000 lbs (453 kg). Be sure your trailer has safety chains and that each chain will hold the trailer’s maximum gross weight. Towing trailers without safety chains could cre- ate a traffic safety hazard if the trailer separates from the hitch due to coupling damage or hitch ball damage. . Be sure to check the hitch pin and safety pin for positive locking placement before towing a trailer. If the ball mount comes off the 8-19 hitch receiver, the trailer could get loose and create a traffic safety hazard. . Use only the ball mount supplied with this hitch. Use the hitch only as a weight carrying hitch. Do not use with any type of weight dis- tributing hitch. . The standard bumper beam must be installed after you remove the trailer hitch. Consult a SUBARU dealer for purchase of a standard bumper beam if you do not have the original. . If a trailer hitch is installed, it is not possible to install the rear towing hook. The maximum gross trailer weight and maximum gross tongue weight are indi- cated in the following table. Maximum gross trailer weight Outback 2,700 lbs (1,224 kg) Maximum gross tongue weight 200 lbs (90 kg) When towing a trailer, refer to “Trailer towing (Outback)” F8-22. – CONTINUED –