Introduction
Hitch
systems,
towing
packages,
tongue
weight, and
driving
permits—there’s
a lot more
to towing a
trailer than
just
hitching up
and taking
off down the
road. This
brochure
provides
general
information
and tips
that can
help you
make safe
decisions
when
purchasing
and driving
a tow
vehicle and
trailer for
noncommercial,
personal
use. It
covers the
following
topics:
-
How the
size and
weight
of a
trailer
affect
the
selection
of a tow
vehicle
-
Things
to
consider
if you
already
have a
tow
vehicle
-
The
importance
of
trailer
manufacturers’
tow
ratings
-
How to
measure
the
weight
of a
trailer
-
The
hitching,
braking,
and
wiring
systems
that
connect
tow
vehicles
with
trailers
-
Tire
safety
-
Proper
loading
and
weight
distribution
of cargo
and
equipment
-
State
and
local
requirements
for
towing a
trailer
-
A
pre-departure
checklist
-
Safety
tips for
driving
with a
trailer
-
Safety
tips for
maintaining
a tow
vehicle
and
trailer
This
brochure is
not a
substitute
for the
technical
information
found in
manufacturers’
towing
guides and
vehicle
owner’s
manuals. Its
purpose is
to give you
some basic
information
about
factors to
consider and
equipment
you will
need to
ensure your
safety and
that of your
passengers,
as well as
the safety
of other
people on
the road,
when you are
towing a
trailer.
Introduction
-
Selecting a
Tow Vehicle
-
If You
Already Have
a Tow
Vehicle
-
Connecting
Your Trailer
To Your Tow
Vehicle
-
Tire Safety
-
Loading and
Weight
Distribution
-
State and
Local
Requirements
for Towing
-
Pre-departure
Safety
Checklist
-
Safety Tips
For Driving
With a
Trailer
-
Maintenance
-
Resources
-
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