2002 Toyota Land Cruiser Owners Manual - Page 197

'02 L/C U (L/O 0108) Never load the trailer with more weight in the back than in the front. About 60% of the trailer load should be in the front half of the trailer and the remaining 40% in the rear. HITCHES NOTICE Do not use axle−mounted hitches as they can cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels or tires. Also, never install a hitch which may interfere with the normal function of an Energy Absorbing Bumper, if so equipped. D If you wish to install a trailer hitch, you should consult with your Toyota dealer. D Use only a hitch recommended by the hitch manufacturer and the one which conforms to the total trailer weight requirement. 1 2 3 4 Trailer ball load rating Ball diameter Shank length Shank diameter D The hitch must be bolted securely to the vehicle frame and installed according to the hitch manufacturer's instructions. TRAILER BALL Follow these easy steps to properly determine the correct trailer ball for your application: 1. Determine the correct trailer ball size for the trailer coupler. Most couplers are stamped with the required trailer ball size. The sizes you will most likely find stamped on the coupler are: D The hitch ball and king pin should have a light coat of grease. D Toyota recommends removing the trailer hitch whenever you are not towing a trailer to reduce the possibility of additional damage caused by the hitch if your vehicle is struck from behind. After removing the hitch, seal any mounting holes in the vehicle body to prevent entry of pollutants such as exhaust fumes, dirt, water, etc. 197