1995 Cadillac Fleetwood Owner's Manual - Page 180

Hitches 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: e If you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will Using A Weight-Carrying Trailer Hitch (Recommended for loaded trailers weighing less than 3,000 lbs. or 1 362 kg.) The trailer tongue should weigh 10 percent of the total trailer load (maximum 300 lbs. or 136 kg) or as specified by the trailer manufacturer to minimize sway. Trailers that weigh more than 1,000lbs. (454 kg) should be equipped with trailer brakes. Consider using sway control if your loaded trailer will weigh 3,000 lbs. (1 362 kg) or more. weigh more than 2,000 lbs. (900 kg), be sure to use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when you're dnving. e 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. e Don't let the steel in a hitch contact the aluminum on Trailer Hitching Procedure Using Weight A Distributing (Equalizing) Hitch (Recommended for loaded trailers weighing 3,000 lbs. to 7,000 lbs. or 1 362 kg to 3 178 kg.) Using a weight distributing hitch without disabling the Electronic Level Control (ELC) system may defeat the purpose of the weight distributing hitch. Also, your rear tires may become overloaded. A weight distributing hitch should spread the load to all axles. If you use a weight distributing hitch, always disable the ELC by following the proper steps. your bumper. If you do, the two will corrode. You can use something like paint or plastic tape to separate the steel and aluminum. The samesteel to aluminum problem can happen with fasteners, too. 4-35