1994 Chevrolet Suburban Owner's Manual - Page 198

After you've loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren't, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer. Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the limit for cold tires. You'll find these numbers on the Certification label at the rearedge of the driver's door or see "Tire Loading" in the Index. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW limit for your vehicle. 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: If you use a step bumper hitch, and your trailer tongue has a V-shaped foot, your bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Check the distance from the front edge of the foot to the middle of the hitch ballsocket. If the distance is less than 12 inches, take the foot off the trailer tongue. If you'll be pulling a trailer with a utility model that, when loaded, will weigh more than 3,000 pounds (1 361 kg); or with a wagon model that, when loaded, will weigh more than 4000 pounds (1 800 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're driving. 0 Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don't seal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO)from your exhaust can get into your vehicle (see "Carbon Monoxide" in the Index). Dirt and water can, too. Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailerso that the tongue will not drop to 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. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. 4-39