1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Owner's Manual - Page 201

If you're using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a weight-distributing hitch, the trailer tongue(A) should weigh 12 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you've loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, see if the weights are to proper. If they aren't, you may be to get them right able simply by moving some items around in the trailer. 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 tofollow: 0 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 the of driver's door, or see "Loading Your Vehicle'' in the Index. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. 0 The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches other or bumper-type hitches to them. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper. Will you have to make any holes inthe body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do, then be sureto seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don'tseal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust get into your can vehicle (see "Carbon Monoxide" in the Index). Dirt and water can, too.