Chevrolet VENTURE 2001, Manual, Page: 313 / 460

4-35
If you’re using a weight
-
carrying hitch, the trailer
tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded
trailer weight (B). If you’re using a weight
-
distributing
hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent of
the total loaded trailer weight (B).
After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and
then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are
proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them
right simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires
Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper
limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the
Certification/Tire label at the rear edge of the driver’s
door or see “Tire Loading” in the Index. Then be
sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle,
including the weight of the trailer tongue.
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:
D The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended
for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other
bumper
-
type hitches to them. Use only a
frame
-
mounted hitch that does not attach to
the bumper.
D If you’ll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than 2,000 lbs. (900 kg), be sure to
use a properly mounted, weight
-
carrying hitch and
sway control of the proper size. This equipment is
very important for proper vehicle loading and good
handling when you’re driving.
D Will you have to make any holes in the body of
your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch?
If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when
you remove the hitch. If you don’t seal them, deadly
carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get
into your vehicle. See “Carbon Monoxide” in the
Index. Dirt and water can, too.