1997 Nissan Pickup Owner's Manual - Page 192

Trailer hitch Check the towing capacity of your bumper hitch or receiver-type frame mounted hitch. Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and trailer. Make sure the trailer hitch is securely attached to the vehicle to help avoid personal injury or property damage due to sway caused by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing trucks. CAUTION ● Special hitches which include frame reinforcements are required for towing above 2,000 lb (907 kg). Suitable genuine NISSAN hitches for pickup trucks are available at your NISSAN dealer. ● Do not use axle-mounted hitches. ● Do not modify the vehicle exhaust system, brake system, etc. when the hitch is installed. ● To reduce the possibility of additional damage if your vehicle is struck from the rear, where practical, remove the hitch when not in use. Remove receiver when not in use. After the hitch is removed, seal the bolt holes to prevent exhaust fumes, water or dust from entering the passenger compartment. ● Check regularly to make sure that all trailer hitch mounting bolts are securely fastened. Trailer lights Trailer lights should comply with Federal and/or local regulations. For assistance in hooking up trailer lights, contact your authorized NISSAN dealer. Trailer brakes If your trailer is equipped with a braking system, make sure it conforms to Federal and/or local regulations and that it is properly installed. WARNING Never connect a trailer brake system directly to the vehicle brake system. Tire pressures ● When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tires to the recommended cold tire pressure indicated on the tire placard (affixed to the glove box lid). ● Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and proper inflation pressure should be in accordance with the trailer and tire manufacturers' specifications. Pre-towing tips ● Be certain your vehicle maintains a level position when a loaded and/or unloaded trailer is hitched. Do not drive the vehicle if it has an abnormal nose-up or nosedown condition; check for improper tongue load, overload, worn suspension or other possible causes of either condition. ● Always secure items in the trailer to Safety chain Always use a suitable chain between your vehicle and the trailer. The chain should be crossed and should be attached to the hitch, not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to leave enough slack in the chain to permit turning corners. 9-21