2012 Cadillac Escalade Owner's Manual - Page 365

Driving and Operating 9-65 Towing Equipment Hitches The correct hitch equipment helps maintain combination control. Many trailers can be towed with a weight carrying hitch which simply features a coupler latched to the hitch ball, or a tow eye latched to a pintle hook. Other trailers may require a weight distributing hitch that uses spring bars to distribute the trailer tongue weight among the two vehicle and trailer axles. See "Weight of the Trailer Tongue" in Trailer Towing on page 9‑61 for rating limits with various hitch types. If a step-bumper hitch will be used, the bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there is ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper. Consider using sway controls with any trailer. Ask a trailering professional about sway controls or refer to the trailer manufacturer's recommendations and instructions. Hitch Cover (without Dual Exhaust) The vehicle may have a hitch cover. To remove the hitch cover: Weight‐Distributing Hitch Adjustment 1. Turn the fasteners on the lower tabs 90 degrees counterclockwise. A. Body to Ground Distance B. Front of Vehicle When using a weight-distributing hitch, the spring bars should be adjusted so the distance (A) is the same after coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle and adjusting the hitch. 2. Lift the lower edge of the cover about 45 degrees. 3. Pull the cover downward to disengage the upper attachments.