1995 Pontiac Trans Sport Owner's Manual - Page 225

If you're using a "dead-weight" hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a "weight-distributing" hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you've loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren't, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some itemsaround in the trailer. Hitches It's important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by, and rough roads area few reasons why you'll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow: 0 Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires Be sure your vehicle's tires areinflated to the limit for cold tires. You'll find thesenumbers on the CertificatiodTire labelat the rear edge the driver's of door or see "Tire Loading" in the Index. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW limit foryour vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. 0 If you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than 2,000 pounds (900 kg), be sure to use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the propersize. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when you're driving. Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch?If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later you remove when the hitch. If you don't seal them,deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get intoyour vehicle (see "Carbon Monoxide" in the Index). Dirt and water can, too. The bumpers on your vehicle arenot intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to them. Useonly a frame-mounted hitch that does not attachto the bumper. 0 4-34