2015 Nissan Murano Towing Guide - Page 8
2015 Nissan Murano Manual
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stamped on the top of the ball. The required hitch ball size is stamped on most trailer couplers. Always make sure the hitch ball selected has the proper shank diameter and weight rating for the ball mount as well as the coupler on your trailer. Using a 1 /8" hitch ball in a 2" coupler, for example, could result in the trailer separating from the tow vehicle. The diameter of the hitch ball shank must be matched to the ball mount hole diameter. The shank should be no more than /16" smaller than the hole. To keep the hitch ball in top condition, a simple maintenance routine is recommended. Coating it with light grease will minimize wear of both the coupler and hitch ball. In addition, removing the hitch ball when not towing, or protecting it with a special cover will help prevent rust from forming on it. TRAILER TONGUE The tongue is the part of the trailer that extends forward to meet the tow vehicle, and it carries the coupler assembly. Knowledge of the trailer minimum and maximum tongue load (conventional trailers) and king pin load (5th wheel and gooseneck trailers) is critical as it can have a significant effect on the handling and capacity of the tow vehicle. Refer to your vehicle owner's manual to view the maximum conventional trailer tongue load listed for your vehicle. Trailer tongue weight is the amount of downward pressure exerted onto the hitch ball. Keep the tongue load between 10-15% of the total trailer weight. DO NOT exceed the maximum tongue load specification. If the tongue weight is below the recommended amount, you must move some of the load forward or add weight to the front frame of the trailer. SAFETY CHAINS/CABLES Always use suitable safety chains/cables between the tow vehicle and the trailer. If the hitch should break or become disengaged while towing, these chains/cables will help provide an emergency connection between the vehicle and the trailer. When installed properly the chains/cables should be crossed under the trailer tongue, and attached to the hitch or vehicle frame. Crossing the chains/cables under the tongue will help prevent the tongue from hitting the ground should the trailer become disconnected. Be sure to leave enough slack in the chains/cables to turn corners without binding; however, note that excessive slack 2015 NISSAN Towing Guide 1 7 OK Not OK 7