Black plate (29,1)Cadillac DTS Owner Manual - 2011Using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A)should weigh 10 to 15 percent of the total loaded trailerweight (B).After loading the trailer, weigh the trailer and then thetongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper.If they are not, adjustments might be made by movingsome items around in the trailer.Total Weight on the Vehicle's TiresBe sure the vehicle's tires are inflated to the upper limitfor cold tires. These numbers can be found on theCertification/Tire label. See Loading the Vehicle onpage 5‑18. Make sure not to go over the GVW limit forthe vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue.HitchesIt is important to have the correct hitch equipment.Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads area few reasons why the right hitch is needed. Here aresome rules to follow:. The rear bumper on the vehicle is not intendedfor hitches. Do not attach rental hitches orother bumper-type hitches to it. Use only aframe-mounted hitch that does not attach to thebumper.. Will any holes be made in the body of the vehiclewhen the trailer hitch is installed? If there are, thenbe sure to seal the holes later when the hitch isremoved. If the holes are not sealed, dirt, water,and deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from theexhaust can get into the vehicle. See EngineExhaust on page 3‑33 for more information.Safety ChainsAlways attach chains between the vehicle and thetrailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue ofthe trailer to help prevent the tongue from contactingthe road if it becomes separated from the hitch.Instructions about safety chains may be provided bythe hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer.5-29
