2002 Toyota 4Runner Owners Manual - Page 217

'02 4Runner_U (L/O 0108) HITCHES Total trailer weight Tongue load BRAKES AND SAFETY CHAINS D Use only a hitch recommended by the hitch manufacturer and the one which conforms to the total trailer weight requirement. D Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to any applicable federal and state/provincial regulations. 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. D The hitch must be bolted securely to the vehicle frame and installed according to the hitch manufacturer's instructions. Tongue load Total trailer weight 100 (∗ 2) 15% (∗ 1) or 9 to 11% D A safety chain must always be used D The hitch ball and king pin should have a light coat of grease. D Toyota recommends removing the hitch when not towing to prevent injury and/ or damage due to the hitch in event of a rear end collision. After removal of the hitch, seal the installation area to prevent entry of exhaust fumes and mud. D The trailer cargo load should be distributed so that the tongue load is 15% for weight distributing hitch (∗1 ) or 9 to 11% for weight carrying hitch (∗2 ) of the total trailer weight, not exceeding the maximum of 226 kg (500 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. CAUTION NOTICE Do not use an axle-mounting hitch as it may cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels and or tires. D If the total trailer weight exceeds 453 kg (1000 lb.), trailer brakes are required. D Never tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system as it would lower its braking effectiveness. 2002 MY 4RUNNER_U (OM35787U) 217