2006 Nissan Towing Guide 7 SAFETY CHAINS/CABLES
Always use suitable safety chains/cables between the tow vehicle and the trailer. If the
hitch should break or become disengaged for some reason, these chains/cables will
provide an emergency connection between the vehicle and the trailer.
The chains/cables should be
crossed under the trailer tongue and
attached to the hitch or vehicle frame.
Crossing the chains/cables under the
tongue will help prevent the tongue
from hitting the ground should the trailer
become disconnected. Be sure to leave
enough slack in the chains/cables to
turn corners without binding; however,
note that excessive slack will allow the
chains/cables to drag on the ground.
Do not use S-hooks for attaching, as
they may become un-hooked, and are
illegal in many states. To avoid damage
to the bumper and chains/cables when
making a sharp turn, do not attach the
chains/cables too close to the coupler. Consult your trailer manufacturer for the proper
location of the chain/cable attachment to the trailer.
REAR VIEW MIRRORS
In many cases, a trailer can block your rear vision when you’re using only the standard
Nissan rear view mirrors. These mirrors were not designed for towing.
“Extended” mirrors specifically designed for trailer towing should be used when your
rearward vision is obstructed. Before using these mirrors, make certain that they comply
with state and local regulations. Telescoping Tow Mirrors are available as an accessory for
Armada and Titan vehicles. Contact your Nissan dealer for details.
Not OK
CouplerTrailer Tongue
OK
2006 Nissan Towing Guide 14 TIRE PRESSURE
When towing a trailer, increase tow vehicle tire pressures to the recommended cold
specifications. You’ll find these figures in the owner’s manual and on the tire pressure chart
located in the vehicle. Trailer tire condition, size, load rating, and inflation pressure should
be in accordance with the trailer and tire manufacturer’s specifications.
TOWING
SAFETY
Towing can dramatically alter the handling and performance characteristics of your vehicle.
Plus, it puts increased strain on the engine and drivetrain. Therefore, it is always a good
idea to approach towing from the standpoint of safety — whether you’re purchasing
equipment or actually pulling the trailer.
Always make sure your vehicle’s towing capacity is adequate for the trailer you intend to
tow. Buy or lease only quality equipment, and have it installed only by professionals.
In addition, be certain that you have all of the equipment needed for safe towing,
including safety chains/cables, electric trailer brakes, electric trailer brake controller,
breakaway switch, extended rear view mirrors, and so on. All of these items have been
discussed in a previous section of this guide.
With regard to vehicle maintenance, you should follow a more frequent schedule, and
check fluid levels, pressures, tire condition, etc., more often when on the road. See your
owner’s manual for details.
LOADING YOUR TRAILER
Taking the time to load and balance your trailer properly will improve overall handling and
minimize the strain on your tow vehicle. Incorrectly loaded trailers tend to sway or swing
from side to side, upsetting vehicle handling. Careful loading and balancing can help
eliminate these problems.
As mentioned earlier, conventional trailer tongue load should fall between 10-15% of
the total trailer weight, and king pin load — if using a 5th wheel or gooseneck trailer —
should be between 15-25% of the total trailer weight. Excessive tongue/king pin load can
actually push the vehicle down in back, lifting the front wheels to a point where traction,
steering response, and braking are severely reduced. Insufficient tongue/king pin load can
cause instability, which may lead to “tail wagging” or jackknifing.
