Page 259 of 419

4-56 Hitches
It's important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads
are a few reasons why you'll need the right hitch.
Here are some rules to follow:
If you use a step
-bumper hitch, your bumper could
be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure you have
ample room when turning to avoid contact between
the trailer and the bumper.
If you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than the capacity stamped on your
step bumper, be sure to use a properly mounted,
weight
-distributing hitch and sway control of the
proper size. This equipment is very important for
proper vehicle loading and good handling when
you're driving.
Safety Chains
You should always attach chains between your vehicle
and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the
tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from
contacting the road if it becomes separated from
the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be
provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer
manufacturer. For trailers up to 5,000 lbs. (2 270 kg)
you may attach the safety chains to the attaching points
on the bumper. For heavier trailers, follow the trailer
or hitch manufacturer's recommendation for attaching
safety chains. If you have the factory
-installed
trailering package, for vehicles equipped to pull a
trailer up to 10,500 lbs. (4 763 kg), you may attach
the safety chains to the attaching point on the hitch
platform. Always leave just enough slack so you can
turn with your rig. Never allow safety chains to drag
on the ground.
Page 261 of 419

4-58
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
Before setting out for the open road, you'll want to get
to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
handling and braking with the added weight of the
trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you
are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly
as responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform
(and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector,
lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has
electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and
then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be
sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the
load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes
are still working.Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you
would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This
can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking
and sudden turns.
Passing
You'll need more passing distance up ahead when you're
towing a trailer. And, because you're a good deal longer,
you'll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle
before you can return to your lane.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.
Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand
to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your
hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible,
have someone guide you.
Page 316 of 419

6-13
Noise Control System
The following information relates to compliance with
federal noise emission standards for vehicles with a Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 lbs.
(4 536 kg). The Maintenance Schedule provides
information on maintaining the noise control system
to minimize degradation of the noise emission control
system during the life of your vehicle. The noise control
system warranty is given in your warranty booklet.
These standards apply only to vehicles sold in
the United States.
Tampering With Noise Control
System Prohibited
Federal law prohibits the following acts or the
causing thereof:
1. The removal or rendering inoperative by any person,
other than for purposes of maintenance, repair or
replacement, of any device or element of design
incorporated into any new vehicle for the purpose
of noise control, prior to its sale or delivery to the
ultimate purchaser or while it is in use; or
2. The use of the vehicle after such device or element
of design has been removed or rendered inoperative
by any person.Among those acts presumed to constitute tampering
are the acts listed below.
Insulation:
Removal of the noise shields or any
underhood insulation.
Engine:
Removal or rendering engine speed governor
(if equipped) inoperative so as to allow engine
speed to exceed manufacturer specifications.
Fan and Drive:
Removal of fan clutch (if equipped) or rendering
clutch inoperative.
Removal of the fan shroud (if equipped).
Air Intake:
Removal of the air cleaner silencer.
Reversing the air cleaner cover.
Exhaust:
Removal of the muffler and/or resonator.
Removal of the exhaust pipes and exhaust
pipe clamps.
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