2008 Honda Pilot Owner's Manual - Page 230

Main Menu Table Of Contents Towing a Trailer Trailer Brakes Safety Chains Spare Tires Honda requires that any trailer with a total trailer weight of 1,000 lbs (455 kg) or more has its own brakes. There are two common types of trailer brakes: surge and electric. Surge brakes are common for boat trailers, since the brakes will get wet. If you choose electric brakes, be sure they are electronically actuated. Do not attempt to tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system. No matter how successful it may seem, any attempt to attach trailer brakes to your vehicles hydraulic system will lower braking effectiveness and create a potential hazard. See your trailer dealer or rental agency for more information on installing electric brakes. Always use safety chains when you tow a trailer. Make sure the chains are secured to the trailer and hitch, and that they cross under the tongue and 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. Sway Control When towing a trailer, we recommend that you carry a full-size spare wheel and tire for your vehicle and trailer. See page 267 for proper tire size, page 276 for how to store a full size wheel and tire, and page 273 for information on changing a flat tire. Remember to unhitch the trailer before changing a flat. Ask your trailer sales or rental agency where and how to store the trailer's spare tire. This device is recommended if your trailer tends to sway. Your trailer maker can tell you what kind of sway control you need and how to install it. Trailer Mirrors Many states and provinces require special exterior mirrors when towing a trailer. Even if they don't, you should install special mirrors if you cannot clearly see behind you, or if the trailer creates a blind spot. 226 2008 Pilot