2005 Dodge Caravan Owner Manual - Page 339

STARTING AND OPERATING 339 • The tongue weight of the trailer. • The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put in or on your vehicle. • Remember that everything put in or on the trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Tongue weight must be equal to at least 10% of Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), but no more than 15% of GTW. Towing Requirements • The maximum frontal area of the trailer cannot exceed 40 square feet (3.72 square meters). • The trailer tongue load must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and should never exceed the weight referenced on the Tire and Loading Information placard. Refer to the Tire- Safety Information Section in this manual. • The "D" range can be selected when towing. However, if frequent shifting occurs while in this range, the "3" range must be selected. NOTE: Using the "3" range while operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions will improve performance and extend transaxle life by reducing excessive shifting and heat build up. • Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact spare tire. • Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size, stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are recommended for motoring safety. • The automatic transaxle fluid and filter should be changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than 45 minutes of continuous operation. See Schedule "B" in section 8 of this manual for transaxle fluid change intervals. NOTE: Check the automatic transaxle fluid level before towing. 5