2003 Cadillac Seville Owner's Manual - Page 245

Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. You'll find these numbers on the Tire-Loading Information label at the rear edge of the driver's door or see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-31. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when youinstall a trailer hitch? If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don'tseal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your vehicle. See EngineExhausf on page 2-33. Dirt and water can, too. Hitches It's important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you'll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow: The rear bumper onyour vehicle is not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to it. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that doesnot attach to the bumper. If you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than 2,000 Ibs (900 kg), be sure to use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when you'redriving. Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not dropto the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. Trailer Brakes Because you have anti-lock brakes, don't try to tap into your vehicle's hydraulic brake system. If you do, both brake systems won't work well, or at all. If you tow more than 1,000 Ibs (450 kg), use trailer brakes. Be sure to follow the instructions that come with the trailer or from the brake manufacturer. 4-36