Trailer Towing (Outback) 435
WARNING
If the trailer is loaded with more
weight in the back of trailer’s axle
than in the front, the load is taken off
the rear axle of the towing vehicle.
This may cause the rear wheels to
skid, especially during braking or
when vehicle speed is reduced during
cornering, resulting in oversteer,
spin out and/or jackknifing.
Ensure that the trailer tongue load is from
8% to 11% of the total trailer weight and
does not exceed the maximum value.
For details about the trailer tongue load,
refer to “Total trailer weight” ☞P433.
1) Jack
2) Bathroom scale
The tongue load can be weighed with a
bathroom scale as shown in the following
illustration. When weighing the tongue
load, be sure to position the towing coupler
at the height at which it would be during
actual towing, using a jack as shown.
F: Front
The tongue load can be adjusted by proper
distribution of the load in the trailer. Never
load the trailer with more weight in the
back than in the front; approximately 60%
of the trailer load should be in the front and
approximately 40% in the rear. Also,
distribute the load as evenly as possible
on both the left and right sides.
Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to
prevent a change in weight distribution
while driving.
& Trailer Hitches
WARNING
s08al03
Never drill the frame or under-body
of your vehicle to install a commercial
trailer hitch. If you do, dangerous
exhaust gas, water or mud may
enter the passenger compartment
through the drilled hole. Exhaust
gas contains carbon monoxide, a
colorless and odorless gas which is
dangerous, or even lethal, if inhaled.
Also, drilling the frame or underbody
of your vehicle could cause
deterioration of strength of your
vehicle and cause corrosion around
the drilled hole.
CAUTION
. Do not modify the vehicle exhaust
system, brake system, or
other systems when installing a
hitch or other trailer towing
equipment.
. Do not use axle-mounted hitches
as they can cause damage to the
axle housing, wheel bearings,
wheels or tires.
8
Driving Tips
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