2008 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual - Page 378

'08 Rav4_U (L/O 0802) Total trailer weight Tongue load 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 NOTICE Do not use an axle−mounting hitch as it may cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels and/ or tires. BRAKES AND SAFETY CHAINS Tongue load 100 = 9 to 11% Total trailer weight D Use only a weight carrying hitch designed for the total trailer weight. Toyota does not recommend using a weight distribution (load equalizing) hitch. the vehicle frame and installed according to the hitch manufacturer's instructions. 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 A safety chain must always be used 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. 2.4 L 4−cylinder (2AZ−FE) 68 kg 3.5 L V6 (2GR−FE) engine Without towing package 90 kg With towing package 158 kg engine (150 lb.) D The hitch must be bolted securely to D The hitch ball should have a light coat of grease. D Toyota recommends that the trailer (200 lb.) (350 lb.) hitch be removed when not towing to prevent injury and/or damage by the hitch in event of a rear end collision. After removing the hitch, the installation area should be sealed to prevent entry of exhaust fumes and mud. 350 2008 RAV4 from Feb. '08 Prod. (OM42726U)