2013 Chevrolet Express 1500 Cargo Owner Manual - Page 244

9-54 Driving and Operating Weight-Distributing Hitches and Weight Carrying Hitches is ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper. If the loaded trailer being pulled will weigh more than 2 270 kg (5,000 lbs), 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 driving. Always use a sway control if the trailer will weigh more than these limits. Ask a hitch dealer about sway controls. 1. Body to Ground Distance 2. Front of Vehicle When using a weight-distributing hitch, the hitch must be adjusted so the distance (1) remains the same both before and after coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle. If a step-bumper hitch will be used, the bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there Will any holes need to be made in the body of the vehicle when a trailer hitch is installed? If using the wiring provided with the factory-installed trailering package, no holes need to be made in the body of the vehicle. However, if an aftermarket hitch is installed, holes may need to be made in the body. If holes are made in the body, then be sure to seal the holes later when the hitch is removed. If the holes are Weight. The only way to be sure it is not exceeding any of these ratings is to weigh the vehicle and trailer. Total Weight on the Vehicle's Tires Be sure the vehicle tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. These numbers can be found on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver door, or see Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑10. Make sure not to go over the GVW limit for the vehicle, or the GAWR, including the weight of the trailer tongue. If using a weight distributing hitch, make sure not to go over the rear axle limit before applying the weight distribution spring bars. Towing Equipment Hitches It is important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why the right hitch is needed.