2019 INFINITI Towing Guide
5
BALL MOUNT
A ball mount (also known as a drawbar) is a bar that holds a hitch ball and is inserted into a
receiver-type hitch. Ball mounts are available for a number of weight capacities (3,500 lbs.,
5,000 lbs., etc.), heights, fit different hitch sizes (1 1/4”, 2”, etc.), and can be weight-
distributing or non-weight-distributing. Choose a proper ball mount based on class, hitch
size, weight rating, and the vehicle’s tow capacity.
HITCH BALL
A hitch ball is bolted through a ball mount or a hitch
hole in the tow vehicle’s rear bumper. The coupler on
the trailer tongue attaches over the hitch ball.
Like ball mounts, hitch balls are available in a
number of weight capacities and sizes. Always make
sure the hitch ball selected has the proper shank
diameter and weight rating for the ball mount as
well as the coupler on your trailer. Using a 1 7/8”
hitch ball in a 2” coupler, for example, could result in the trailer separating from the tow
vehicle. The required hitch ball size is stamped on most trailer couplers.
The diameter of the hitch ball shank must be matched to the ball mount hole diameter. The
shank should be no more than 1/16” smaller than the hole in the ball mount. To keep the
hitch ball in top condition, a simple maintenance routine is recommended. Coating it with
light grease will minimize wear of both the coupler and hitch ball. Also, by removing the
hitch ball when not towing, or by protecting it with a special cover, you will help prevent
rust from forming on it.
TRAILER TONGUE
The tongue is the part of the trailer that extends forward to meet the tow vehicle, and it
also carries the coupler assembly. Knowledge of the trailer minimum and maximum tongue
load is critical as it can have a significant effect on the handling and capacity of the tow
vehicle. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual to view the maximum conventional trailer
tongue load listed for your vehicle. Trailer tongue weight is the amount of downward
pressure exerted onto the hitch ball. Keep the tongue load between 10-15% of the total
trailer weight. DO NOT exceed the maximum tongue load specification. If the tongue
weight is below the recommended amount, you must move some of the load forward or
add weight to the front frame of the trailer.
Hitch
Mount BallBall
2019 INFINITI Towing Guide
20 6. If no leaks are apparent and all other components appear to be operating
properly with the engine cooled to its normal operating temperature; check the
coolant level in the reservoir tank with the engine running. Add coolant to the
reservoir tank if needed. At this point, if repairs are required, go to the nearest
INFINITI retailer. See the IN CASE OF EMERGENCY section of your vehicle owner’s
manual for additional information on overheating.
NOTE – All INFINITI vehicles have an engine protection mode which helps reduce the
chance of engine damage if the engine coolant reaches a specified temperature.
NOTES
Passenger Vehicles – INFINITI cautions that you do not tow a trailer with Q50, Q60, Q70,
or Q70 (HEV) vehicles.
Cross-Over Vehicles – INFINITI cautions that you do not tow a trailer QX30, QX50, or the
QX70 2WD vehicles.
Other Recommendations and Information – Towing performance and speed are
affected by vehicle payload, tow weight, road grades, and weather conditions,
including high temperatures. See your vehicle owner’s manual for details.
TOWING GLOSSARY
BALL MOUNT A bar that holds the hitch ball and is inserted into the hitch receiver.
Also commonly called a drawbar.
1 Maximum Trailer Weight values are calculated assuming a base
vehicle with driver and any options required, to achieve the
rating. Additional passengers, cargo and/or optional equipment
will add weight to the vehicle and reduce your vehicle’s
maximum towing capacity and trailer tongue load.
2 In general, a weight-distributing hitch system (Class IV) should be
used when towing over 5,000 lbs.
3 Most states require a separate braking system on trailers with a
loaded weight above a specific amount. Check local ordinances.
7-pin connector trailer wire harnesses are required for use with
trailer brakes (available separately).
