2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Owner's Manual - Page 227

STARTING AND OPERATING 227 WARNING! Improper towing can lead to an injury accident. Follow these guidelines to make your trailer towing as safe as possible: • Be sure a trailer is loaded heavier in front, about 10% to 15% of gross trailer weight. Loads balanced over the wheels or heavier in the rear cause the trailer to sway severely side to side which will cause loss of control of the vehicle and trailer. Failure to load trailers heavier in front is the cause of many trailer related accidents. • Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system of your vehicle with that of the trailer. This could cause inadequate braking and possible personal injury. • Trailer brakes are required for trailers in excess of 2,000 lbs (907 kg). • Do not connect a trailer lighting system directly to the lighting system of your vehicle. Use an approved trailer wiring harness. Failure to do so could damage the vehicle electrical system and/or result in personal injury. • When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a loss of control, poor performance or damage to brakes, axle, engine, transmission, steering, suspension, body structure or tires. • Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer and will not shift during travel. 5