2004 Mazda MPV Owner's Manual - Page 133

Before Driving Your Mazda Towing WARNING Tow Loads: Attempting to tow loads greater than those specified is dangerous as it may cause serious handling and performance problems that could result in personal injury or vehicle damage, or both. Always keep tow loads within specified limits in the Trailer Towing-Load Table. Trailer Loading: Loading the trailer with more weight in the rear than in the front is dangerous. Doing so could cause you to lose control. The trailer tongue load must be 10%-15% of the total trailer load (sum of the weights of the trailer and cargo). Try to load the trailer with the weight about 60% toward the front and 40% toward the rear. Determining Total Trailer Weight and Tongue Load: Attempting to tow loads without determining the total trailer weight and tongue load is dangerous. Trailer sway from crosswinds, rough roads or other causes could result in loss of control and a serious accident. Always have the total trailer weight and tongue load determined prior to departure. CAUTION The total trailer weight and tongue load can be determined by weighing the trailer on platform scales at a highway weight station or a trucking company. M Trailer Hitch Use only a hitch ball recommended by the trailer manufacturer that conforms to the gross trailer weight requirement. When not towing a trailer, remove the trailer hitch (if detachable) to reduce the possibility of damage as a result of the vehicle being rear-ended. When the trailer load is more than 907 kg (2,000 lb), use a frame-mounted weightdistributing hitch. 4-14