2000 Toyota Sienna Owners Manual - Page 203

00 SIENNA(U) Weight carrying hitch Without towing package 90 kg (200 lb.) With towing package 158 kg (350 lb.) Weight distributing hitch With towing package 238 kg (525 lb.) Never load the trailer with more weight in the back than in the front. About 60% of the trailer load should be in the front half of the trailer and the remaining 40% in the rear. HITCHES D Toyota recommends removing the trailer hitch whenever you are not towing a trailer to reduce the possibility of additional damage caused by the hitch if your vehicle is struck from behind. After removing the hitch, seal any mounting holes in the vehicle body to prevent entry of pollutants such as exhaust fumes, dirt, water, etc. D A safety chain must always be used between the towing vehicle and the trailer. Leave sufficient slack in the chain for turns. The chain should cross under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to the ground in case it becomes damaged or separated. For correct safety chain procedures, follow the hitch or trailer manufacturer's recommendations. NOTICE Do not use axle−mounted hitches as they can cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels or tires. Also, never install a hitch which may interfere with the normal function of an Energy Absorbing Bumper, if so equipped. BRAKES AND SAFETY CHAINS CAUTION D If the total trailer weight exceeds 453 kg (1000 lb.), trailer brakes are required. D If you wish to install a trailer hitch, you should consult with your Toyota dealer. D Never tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system as it would lower its braking effectiveness. D Use only a hitch recommended by the hitch manufacturer and the one which conforms to the total trailer weight requirement. D Toyota D The hitch must be bolted securely to the vehicle frame and installed according to the hitch manufacturer's instructions. recommends trailers with brakes that conform to any applicable federal and state/provincial regulations. D Never tow a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, there is danger of the trailer wandering over into another lane. D The hitch ball and king pin should have a light coat of grease. 203