2005 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 277

1. Park unloaded vehicle on a level surface. With the ignition on and the doors closed, allow the vehicle to stand for several minutes so that it can level. 2. Measure the height of a reference point on the front and rear bumpers at the center of the vehicle. 3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and adjust the hitch equalizers so that the front bumper height is within 0 - .5 inches (0 - 13 mm) of the reference height measured in step 2. The rear bumper should be no higher than the reference height measured in step 2. buffeting caused by other vehicles. Make sure the sway control device is compatible with the trailer's brake system. ● The hitch should not be attached to or affect the operation of the impactabsorbing bumper. ● Do not use axle-mounted hitches. ● Do not modify the vehicle exhaust system, brake system, etc. to install a trailer hitch. ● To reduce the possibility of additional damage if your vehicle is struck from the rear, where practical, remove the hitch and/or 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 trailer hitch mounting bolts are securely mounted. ● When towing with the hitch ball mounted to the rear bumper, do not make sharp turns. The trailer may contact the bumper and cause damage to the bumper or trailer. Class I hitch Class I trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 2,000 lb (909 kg). Class II hitch Class II trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 3,500 lb (1,510 kg). WARNING Properly adjust the weight distributing hitch so the rear of the bumper is no higher than the measured reference height when the trailer is attached. If the rear bumper is higher than the measured reference height when loaded, the vehicle may handle unpredictably which could cause a loss of vehicle control and cause serious personal injury or property damage. Class III hitch Class III trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 5,000 lb (2,272 kg). CAUTION ● Special hitches which include frame reinforcements are required for towing above 2,000 lb (907 kg). Suitable genuine NISSAN hitches, ball mounts and hitch balls for pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles are available at a NISSAN dealer. Sway control device Sway control devices are used to help control the effects of sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and Technical and consumer information 9-21