1997 Chevrolet Express Van Owner's Manual - Page 186

Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated tothe upper limit for coldtires. You'll find these numbers on the Certification label at the rear edgeof the driver's door or see "Tire Loading" in the Index. Then be sure you don't go over theGVW limit foryour vehicle, including the weight of the trailertongue. If you'll be pulling atrailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than 4,000 lbs. (1 800 kg), be sure to use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. Thisequipment is very important forproper vehicle loading and good handling when you're driving. 0 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: 0 Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you're using the wiring provided by the factory-installed hitch,you should not need to make any holes in the body of your vehicle. However, if you have an aftermarket hitch installed, you may need to make holes in the body. The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to them. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper. Do not use aball hitch, because it could pull the bumper loose. If you do, then be sure to seal the holes laterwhen 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.