2003 Honda CR-V Owner's Manual - Page 220

Towing a Trailer Checking Loads The best way to confirm that vehicle and trailer weights are within limits is to have them checked at a public scale. Using a suitable scale or a special tongue load gauge, check the tongue load the first time you set up a towing combination (a fully-loaded vehicle and trailer), then recheck the tongue load whenever the conditions change. Towing Equipment and Accessories Towing can require a variety of equipment, depending on the size of your trailer, how it will be used, and how much load you are towing. Discuss your needs with your trailer sales or rental agency, and follow the guidelines in the rest of this section. Also make sure that all equipment is properly installed and that it meets federal, state, province, and local regulations. Hitches Any hitch used on your vehicle must be properly bolted to the underbody. Safety Chains Always use safety chains. Make sure they are secured to both the trailer and hitch, and that they cross under the tongue so they can catch the trailer if it becomes unhitched. Leave enough slack to allow the trailer to turn corners easily, but do not let the chains drag on the ground. CONTINUED Driving 219