2009 Toyota Tundra Owners Manual - Page 300

2-5. Driving information CAUTION n To avoid accident or injury l Speed limit for towing a trailer vary by state or province. Do not exceed the posted towing speed limit. l Do not exceed the trailer hitch assembly weight, gross vehicle weight, gross axle weight and trailer tongue load capacities. l Do not use cruise control when you are towing. l Slow down and downshift before descending steep or long downhill grades. Do not make sudden downshifts. l Avoid holding the brake pedal down too long or applying the brakes too frequently. This could cause the brakes to overheat and result in reduced braking efficiency. l Do not tow the vehicle with the temporary spare tire installed. n Hitch Trailer hitch assemblies have different weight capacities established by the hitch manufacturer. Even though the vehicle may be physically capable of towing a higher weight, the operator must determine the maximum weight rating of the particular hitch assembly and never exceed the maximum weight rating specified for the trailer-hitch. Exceeding the maximum weight rating set by the trailer-hitch manufacturer can cause an accident resulting in death or serious personal injuries. n When towing a trailer l If the gross trailer weight exceeds 1000 lb. (453 kg), trailer brakes are required. Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to all applicable federal and state/provincial regulations. l Never tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system, as this will lower the vehicle's braking effectiveness. l 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 into another lane. 270