2004 Toyota Highlander Owners Manual - Page 316

Finish '04 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0308) D The gross vehicle weight must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) indicated on the Certification Label. The gross vehicle weight is the sum of weights of the unloaded vehicle, driver, passengers, luggage, hitch and trailer tongue load. It also includes the weight of any special equipment installed on your vehicle. HITCHES Total trailer weight Tongue load D If you wish to install a trailer hitch, you should consult with your Toyota dealer. D Use only a hitch recommended by the hitch manufacturer and the one which conforms to the total trailer weight requirement. D The hitch must be bolted securely to Tongue load Total trailer weight 100 = 9 to 11% D The load on either the front or rear axle resulting from distribution of the gross vehicle weight on both axles must not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the Certification Label. the vehicle frame and installed according to the hitch manufacturer's instructions. D The hitch ball and king pin should have a light coat of grease. D The trailer cargo load should be distributed so that the tongue load is 9 to 11% of the total trailer weight, not exceed the following. 2AZ−FE engine 136 kg (300 lb.) 3MZ−FE engine 158 kg (350 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. 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. NOTICE Do not use axle−mounted hitches as they can cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels or tires. 316 2004 HIGHLANDER from Aug. '03 Prod. (OM48478U)