2013 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 378

Safety chains Always use suitable safety chains between your vehicle and the trailer. The safety chains should be crossed and should be attached to the hitch, not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to leave enough slack in the chains to permit turning corners. Trailer lights CAUTION When splicing into the vehicle electrical system, a commercially available powertype module/converter must be used to provide power for all trailer lighting. This unit uses the vehicle battery as a direct power source for all trailer lights while using the vehicle tail light, stoplight and turn signal circuits as a signal source. The module/converter must draw no more that 15 milliamps from the stop and tail lamp circuits. Using a module/converter that exceeds these power requirements may damage the vehicle's electrical system. See a reputable trailer dealer to obtain the proper equipment and to have it installed. Trailer lights should comply with federal and/or local regulations. For assistance in hooking up trailer lights, contact a NISSAN dealer or reputable trailer dealer. Vehicles equipped with the optional trailer tow package are equipped with a 7-pin trailer harness connector. A NISSAN 7-pin tow harness kit is available from your dealer. If your trailer is equipped with a flat 4-pin connector, an adapter will be needed to connect the trailer lights to the vehicle. Adapters are available at auto parts stores and hitch retailers. Electric Trailer Brakes -Electric braking systems are activated by an electronic signal sent from a trailer brake controller (special brakesensing module). If electric trailer brakes are used, see "Electric trailer brake controller" in this section. Have a professional supplier of towing equipment make sure the trailer brakes are properly installed and demonstrate proper brake function testing. Trailer brakes When towing a trailer load of 3,500 lbs. (1,587 kg) or more, trailers with a brake system MUST be used. However, most states require a separate braking system on trailers with a loaded weight above a specific amount. Make sure the trailer meets the local regulations and the regulations where you plan to tow. Several types of braking systems are available. Surge Brakes -The surge brake actuator is mounted on the trailer tongue with a hydraulic line running to each trailer wheel. Surge brakes are activated by the trailer pushing against the hitch ball when the tow vehicle is braking. Hydraulic surge brakes are common on rental trailers and some boat trailers. In this type of system, there is no hydraulic or electric connection for brake operation between the tow vehicle and the trailer. WARNING Never connect a trailer brake system directly to the vehicle brake system. Electric trailer brake controller Trailers equipped with electric brakes may require the installation of an aftermarket trailer brake controller. A Genuine NISSAN jumper harness is available that is specifically designed to be used when installing an aftermarket brake controller. Install the aftermarket electric trailer brake controller according to the manufacturer's instructions. Technical and consumer information 9-25