2014 Honda Odyssey 2014 Odyssey Owner's Manual - Page 403

uu Towing a Trailer u Towing Preparation ■ Tongue load The weight of the tongue with a fully loaded trailer on the hitch should be approximately 10% of the total trailer weight. Tongue Ton gue Load Load • Excessive tongue load reduces front tire traction and steering control. Too little tongue load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway. • To achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading 60% of the load toward the front of the trailer and 40% toward the rear. Readjust the load as needed. ■ Towing Equipment and Accessories ■ Hitches The hitch must be of an approved type and properly bolted to the underbody. 1 Towing Equipment and Accessories Make sure that all equipment is properly installed and maintained, and that it meets federal, state, province/ territory, and local regulations. Consult your trailer sales or rental agency if any other items are recommended or required for your towing situation. The lighting and wiring of trailers can vary by type and brand. If a connector is required, it should only be installed by a qualified technician. 402 Driving ■ Weight distribution hitches A weight distributing hitch is not recommended for use with your vehicle. An improperly adjusted weight distributing hitch may reduce handling, stability, and braking performance. ■ Safety chains Always use safety chains when you tow a trailer. Leave enough slack to allow the trailer to turn corners easily, but do not allow the chains to drag on the ground.