1996 Cadillac DeVille Owner's Manual - Page 216

Hitches It's importantto have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going and rough roads are by a few reasonswhy you'll need the right hitch. Here are some rulesto follow: 0 Safety Chains 0 If you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh morethan 2,000 lbs. (900 kg), be sure to use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch and sway controlof the proper size. This equipment is very importantfor proper vehicle loading and good handling when you're driving. Trailer Brakes Will you have to make any holes in the body your of vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? you do, If Because you have anti-lock brakes, don't to tap into try then be sure to seal the holes later when remove you your vehicle's hydraulic brake system. If do, both you the hitch.If you don't seal them, deadly carbon brake systems won't work well, or at all. monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your Be sure to read and follow instructionsfor the trailer the in it vehicle (see "Carbon Monoxide" the Index).Dr brakes so you'll be ableto maintain them properly. and watercan, too. The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitchesto them. Use'onlya frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper. You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not to the road drop if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may provided by the hitch be manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety chains anddo not attach them to the bumper. Always leave just enough slackso you canturn with your rig. on And, never allow safety chains to drag the ground. 4-35