2007 Toyota Corolla Owners Manual - Page 218

'07 Corolla_U (L/O 0608) HITCHES Total trailer weight Tongue load D A safety chain must always be used between the towing vehicle and the trailer. Leave sufficient slack in the chain for turns. The chain should cross under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to the ground in case it becomes damaged or separated. For correct safety chain procedures, follow the hitch or trailer manufacturer's recommendations. D Use only a hitch which is recommended by the hitch manufacturer and conforms to the total trailer weight requirement. D Follow the directions supplied by the hitch manufacturer. Lubricate the hitch ball with a light coat of grease. Tongue load 100 = 9 to 11% Total trailer weight 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. CAUTION D The trailer cargo load should be distributed so that the tongue load is 9 to 11% of the total trailer weight, not exceeding the maximum of 68 kg (150 lb.). 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. 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. BRAKES AND SAFETY CHAINS D If the total trailer weight exceeds 453 kg (1000 lb.), trailer brakes are required. D Never tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system as it would lower its braking effectiveness. D Never tow a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, there is danger of the trailer wandering over into another lane. D Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to any applicable federal and state/provincial regulations. 206 2007MY COROLLA from Oct. '06 Prod. (OM12B32U)