2008 Acura RL Owner's Manual - Page 383

Main Menu Table Of Contents Towing a Trailer To achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading 60 % of the load toward the front of the trailer and 40 % toward the rear, then re-adjust the load as needed. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all accessories, all cargo, and the tongue load is: 4,980 lbs (2,260 kg) Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle axles are: 2,680 lbs (1,215 kg) on the front axle, and 2,380 lbs (1,080 kg) on the rear axle. Checking Loads The best way to confirm that all loads are within limits is to check them at a public scale. For public scales in your area, check your local phone book, or contact your trailer dealer or rental agency for assistance. If you cannot get to a public scale, you can estimate the total trailer weight by adding the weight of your trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer) with everything in or on the trailer. If you normally pull the same load each time you tow a trailer, you can use a suitable scale or a special tongue load gauge to check the tongue load the first time you set up a towing combination (a fully loaded vehicle and trailer), then recheck the tongue load whenever the conditions change. Towing Equipment and Accessories Towing generally requires a variety of supplemental equipment, depending on the size of your trailer, how much load you are towing, and where you tow. To ensure the best quality, we recommend that you purchase Acura equipment whenever possible. Discuss your needs with your trailer sales or rental agency, and follow the guidelines in the rest of this section. Also make sure that all equipment is properly installed and maintained, and that it meets federal, state, province, and local regulations. Hitches Any hitch used on your vehicle must be properly bolted to the underbody. 380 2008 RL