1999 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 207

● 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. ● Regularly check that all hitch mounting bolts are securely mounted. Safety chains Always use suitable chains between your vehicle and the trailer. Safety chains 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 chains to permit turning corners. it has an abnormal nose-up or nose- down condition; check for improper tongue load, overload, worn suspension or other possible causes of either condition. ● Always secure items in the trailer to prevent load shift while driving. ● Be certain your rear view mirrors conform to all federal, state or local regulations. If not, install any mirrors required for towing before driving the vehicle. Trailer lights Trailer lights should comply with federal and/ or local regulations. When wiring the vehicle for towing, connect the stop and tail light pickup into the vehicle electrical circuit. Trailer towing tips In order to gain skill and an understanding of the vehicle's behavior, you should practice turning, stopping and backing up in an area which is free from traffic. Steering stability and braking performance will be somewhat different than under normal driving conditions. ● Always secure items in the trailer to prevent load shift while driving. ● Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops. ● Avoid sharp turns or lane changes. ● Always drive your vehicle at a moderate speed. 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 driver's door, center pillar). ● Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and proper inflation pressure should be in accordance with the trailer and tire manufacturer's 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 10-16 Technical and consumer information