weight INFINITI FX 2013 Towing Guide
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: INFINITI, Model Year: 2013, Model line: FX, Model: INFINITI FX 2013Pages: 25, PDF Size: 0.42 MB
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2013 Infiniti Towing Guide
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RENTING
The first thing to keep in mind when renting a trailer is to rent only from professional companies
that specialize in towing and towing equipment. More than likely, specialized companies hire
professional staff that can assist you in selecting and installing the proper towing equipment for
your Infiniti vehicle.
When renting, make sure you have your vehicle owner’s manual on hand so that you can reference
the towing capacities for your specific vehicle. Use this data to help select the proper trailer to meet
your anticipated towing needs. Never rent a trailer that exceeds the established towing capacities
for your vehicle, and make sure that any related towing equipment you rent will be sufficient for the
loaded trailer.
While you are there, ask questions. How much does the empty trailer weigh? How much weight will
the trailer hold? What is the trailer’s tongue load? With what type of brakes is it equipped (if any)?
All of these factors have an effect on whether your Infiniti vehicle is capable of safely pulling that
type of trailer or piece of equipment.
Make certain that the trailer stoplights, taillights, turn signals, and brakes (if equipped) are
connected and are operating correctly, and that all safety equipment is properly installed. Check
the safety chains/cables, tie-downs, etc.
For safer operation, carefully inspect the condition of the trailer and towing equipment. Specifically,
check to make sure the tires are not worn excessively and are properly inflated. Make sure there are
not any broken welds, missing bolts, and that the hitch components are not damaged.
Towing safety should be a high priority when choosing and renting towing equipment, including
hitches. NEVER RENT A CLAMP-ON-TYPE HITCH. Your vehicle’s bumpers are not designed for using
this type of hitch. Using it will damage your vehicle and could even result in the trailer separating
from the towing vehicle; this can cause death or serious injury. To avoid this, use only a permanent-
type hitch.
PURCHASING
If you are buying a travel or boat trailer, be sure that your Infiniti vehicle has the towing capacity to
pull it. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for detailed information regarding the towing capacity
of your specific vehicle. Your vehicle owner’s manual should ALWAYS be referenced before making
any towing decisions.
Naturally, you will want to select the towing and safety equipment that adheres to your
state’s and federal safety regulations.
TOWING EQUIPMENT
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And if you plan to tow often, consider convenience. Quick-disconnect trailer light connectors and
ratchet-type tie-downs, for example, make the job go faster and easier and are usually worth the
extra small investment. Purchase towing items such as hitches and hitch balls only from your
Infiniti retailer or a professional supplier of towing equipment.
If you are intending to use your vehicle to tow a trailer you already own, you must ensure that your
loaded trailer remains well within your vehicle's towing capacity as specified in the vehicle owner's
manual. In addition, you should purchase the right type, style, and class* of hitch and towing
equipment to properly adapt the trailer to your vehicle.
TYPES OF EQUIPMENT
Towing requires a variety of equipment, and, depending upon the application, there can be several
types or styles of each piece of equipment. Working with your Infiniti retailer or a professional
supplier of towing equipment, it should be relatively simple to determine the proper type of
equipment for your specific vehicle given the intended application. This section explains the most
common pieces of towing equipment available.
HITCHES
Whichever type of hitch you use, it should be firmly bolted to your vehicle, and should be of the
appropriate weight class for the equipment you intend to tow. In addition, keep the following in
mind:
Š Do not modify the vehicle’s braking or exhaust systems or its body structure/frame when
installing the hitch.
Š Installing an aftermarket hitch may affect the rear crash performance of your vehicle.
Š Be sure that the hitch does not interfere in any way with the vehicle’s impact-absorbing bumper.
Š Regularly check to see that all hitch-mounting bolts are securely fastened.
Š For receiver-type hitches using a ball mount, the ball mount should be removed when not
towing.
Š If you install a hitch yourself, remember that it must be securely attached to the frame or
underbody, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Never attach a hitch or towing device
to the vehicle axle housing. This may damage the housing, wheel bearings, wheels, or tires.
*
Refer to your owners manual for the equipment class information specific to your vehicle.
WHAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU
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Weight-Distributing Hitch System – This type of system
uses a “load-leveling” or “equalizing” hitch. The weight-
distributing feature helps shift the trailer tongue weight
to all the axles of the tow vehicle and the trailer axles.
Weight –distributing hitches should be used in many
towing conditions. In general, a weight-distributing hitch
system is recommended and should be used if you plan
to tow trailers with a maximum weight over 5,000 lbs.
Refer to trailer and hitch manufacturer for detailed information on load limits. Weight distributing
hitches are available in many styles and with sway control accessory options to accommodate
trailers with maximum loaded weight and for different driving conditions.
NOTE – A weight-distributing hitch system may affect the operation of trailer surge brakes. If you are
considering use of a weight-distributing hitch system with a surge brake-equipped trailer, check
with the surge brake, hitch, or trailer manufacturer to determine if and how this can be done. Follow
the instructions provided by the manufacturer for installing and using the weight-distributing hitch
system.
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 come in a number of weight capacities (3,500 lbs., 5,000 lbs., etc.)
and sizes (1
1/4”, 2”, etc.), and can be weight-distributing or non-weight-distributing.
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 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. 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.
Hitch
Mount BallBall
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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 of the tow vehicle. Refer to your vehicle owner’s
manual to view the maximum trailer tongue load listed for your vehicle, and always keep the tongue
load between 10 to 15% of the trailer weight. Do not exceed the 10 to 15% tongue weight
specification. If the calculated tongue weight is less than 10%, reduce the total trailer weight to
match the available tongue weight.
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 are using only the standard Infiniti 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 certain Infiniti vehicles. Contact your Infiniti retailer for details.
OK
Not OK
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NOTE – Improper or poor quality trailer harness wiring may affect your vehicle’s electrical system.
Use only an Infiniti approved wiring harness, or consult your retailer or a professional supplier of
towing equipment for compatible equipment.
BRAKES
As with hitches, several types of braking systems are available. Most states require a separate
braking system on trailers with a loaded weight above a specific amount, therefore you should
check to ensure you comply with all regulations. Have a professional supplier of towing equipment
demonstrate proper brake function testing.
NOTE – Never connect a hydraulic trailer brake system directly to the vehicle hydraulic brake system.
Surge Brakes – The surge brake actuator is mounted on the trailer tongue with a hydraulic line
running to each trailer wheel. Surge brakes are activated by the trailer pushing against the hitch
ball when the tow vehicle is braking. Hydraulic surge brakes are common on rental trailers and
some boat trailers. In this type of system, there is no hydraulic or electric connection for brake
operation between the tow vehicle and the trailer.
Electric Trailer Brakes – Electric braking systems are activated by an electronic signal sent from a
trailer brake controller (special brake-sensing module).
If electric trailer brakes are used, Infiniti recommends all-electronic actuation because with this
system it will not be necessary to tap into the tow vehicle’s hydraulic system. For adjustment
specifications refer to the brake controller manual for the controller being used.
For your convenience, QX56 and JX35 vehicles are pre-wired to accommodate most popular electric
trailer brake controllers. A wiring harness* is either included with your vehicle or available from
your Infiniti retailer. This harness provides electric trailer brake controller input and output
connections to the vehicle wiring. Contact an Infiniti retailer or a professional supplier of towing
equipment for information on trailers equipped with electric brakes and for Genuine Infiniti jumper
harness availability for your specific vehicle.
NOTE – Improper or poor quality trailer harness wiring may affect your vehicle’s electrical system.
Use only an Infiniti approved wiring harness, or consult your retailer or professional supplier of
towing equipment for compatible equipment.
GENUINE INFINITI PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
Whether you will be towing occasionally or on a regular basis, Infiniti offers a full range of Genuine
Infiniti Parts and Accessories to help you tow with confidence.
Every accessory is thoroughly tested and inspected for fit and workmanship. Therefore, you can be
certain that every item is designed to be compatible with the standard features of your vehicle and
designed to assist you with your towing needs.
*Contact your Infiniti retailer for more information on accessories or towing-related parts for your
Infiniti vehicle.
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PREPARING YOUR VEHICLE
BREAK-IN AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Infiniti recommends that you allow a sufficient “break-in” (500 miles) of both the engine and
drivetrain before towing with your new Infiniti vehicle. In addition, for the first 500 miles that you
tow a trailer, do not drive over 50 mph and do not make starts at full throttle.
Keep in mind, too, that towing places higher demands and added loads on vehicle components, so
more frequent maintenance is called for. Your Infiniti Service & Maintenance Guide provides the
accelerated maintenance schedule for towing purposes. Engine oil, filter, transmission oil, and
possibly other fluids should be changed more frequently when towing.
TIRE PRESSURE
When towing a trailer, increase the tow vehicle tire pressures to the recommended cold
specifications. You will find these figures in the vehicle owner’s manual and on the tire pressure
chart located within the vehicle. Trailer tire condition, size, load rating, and inflation pressure must
be in accordance with the trailer and tire manufacturer’s specifications.
MEASURING VEHICLE WEIGHT
The key to safe, efficient towing has to do with weight. Your vehicle — SUV, crossover, or passenger
car — is capable of carrying and towing only a certain amount of weight. You must compare your
vehicle’s tow weight ratings with the combined weight of the vehicle, trailer, and their contents.
This will help ensure that the total weight does not exceed any of your vehicle’s tow weight ratings.
There are four weights to consider when towing:
Š Gross Vehicle Weight
Š Gross Axle Weight (Front and Rear)
Š Gross Combined Weight
Š Trailer Tongue Load
These ratings are based upon normal highway driving and may be reduced if operating in reduced-
traction situations, for example, slippery boat ramps.
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NOTE – Attempting to tow loads greater than the GVWR, GAWR, GCWR, and the trailer tongue load
specified could adversely affect vehicle handling, braking, and performance. Damage to your
vehicle resulting from overloading may not be covered by your vehicle warranty.
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT (GVW)
The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the total weight of the vehicle, plus passengers, cargo, fuel,
hitch, trailer tongue weight, and any optional equipment.
The best way to determine the GVW is by having the
vehicle — loaded and ready to tow — weighed
at a public scale. To that figure, add the combined weight
of all passengers. Then, add the trailer tongue weight to
determine the approximate GVW.
The GVW you come up with must not exceed the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for your vehicle. On all
Infiniti vehicles, the GVWR is shown on the Federal Motor
Vehicle Safety Standard (F.M.V.S.S.) certification label
located in the driver’s-side door area.
To avoid overloading the vehicle, be sure to include the
trailer tongue weight as a part of the cargo when
determining how much weight can be safely carried
inside the vehicle. The weight of the roof rack cargo
should also be included.
MFD BY NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD
DATE
GVWR
GAWR FR.
WITH
GAWR RR.
WITH
THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO
ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL
MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY
STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON
THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE
SHOWN ABOVE.
SEE OWNERS MANUAL FOR
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.
TIRES
TIRES
TYPE: TRUCK
MODEL: 3B000
COLOR TRIM TRANS
AXLE ENGINE
RIMS AT PSI
COLD SINGLERIMS AT PSI
COLD SINGLE
F.M.V.S.S
Certification Label
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GROSS AXLE WEIGHT (GAW)
The Gross Axle Weight (GAW) is the maximum weight each axle (front and rear) is designed to safely
carry.
To determine the GAW, load the vehicle as you would for towing and attach the loaded trailer. At a
public scale, with the loaded trailer attached, place only the tow vehicle front wheels on the scale
to determine the actual front axle GAW. To obtain the rear axle GAW, place all four tow vehicle
wheels on the scale. From that figure, subtract the front GAW and you will have the rear GAW
amount.
The GAW you come up with must not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for your vehicle.
On Infiniti vehicles, the GAWR for both axles is listed on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
GROSS COMBINED WEIGHT (GCW)
The Gross Combined Weight (GCW) is the total weight of the tow vehicle with all passengers, cargo,
and fuel, plus the total weight of the trailer and all its cargo.
To determine the GCW, simply weigh your vehicle when fully loaded and ready to tow, and add in
the weight of the loaded trailer.
The GCW you come up with must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) for your
vehicle. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual to view the GCWR listed for your vehicle.
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TRAILER TONGUE LOAD
Trailer tongue load is the amount of
weight pressing down on the tow
vehicle hitch.
To measure trailer tongue load, place
the tongue of the trailer on a scale
when the trailer is not attached to the
vehicle. A separate vehicle jack — not
the trailer jack — should be used, as
the location of the trailer jack is rearward of the trailer tongue and will not give you an accurate
measurement of the true tongue load. Make sure the vehicle jack is placed directly under the trailer
tongue coupler, and the tongue is set at the height/level of the tow vehicle hitch.
For proper handling, you must keep the trailer tongue load between 10-15% of the actual trailer
weight, within the limits of the maximum trailer tongue load allowable. For example, to determine
the proper trailer tongue load for a 1,500-lb. trailer, multiply the weight of 1,500 lbs. by 10% to arrive
at a figure of 150 lbs.
Some trailer types may require different trailer tongue loads for safe towing. Always follow the
trailer manufacturer’s recommendations for proper trailer set-up and trailer tongue load. Keep the
trailer tongue load within the maximum trailer tongue load allowable. Additionally, make sure the
vehicle has the payload capacity available for the trailer tongue load.
Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual to view the maximum trailer tongue load listed for your vehicle.
NOTE – The vehicle weight ratings (GVWR, GAWR, GCWR, etc.) must not be exceeded, regardless of
trailer or hitch type.
HITCH & TRAILER HEIGHT
It is important that your trailer floor and
tongue ride as level as possible. This
will help prevent over-angling, bottoming-out,
and improper tongue load and load transfer.
Therefore, the hitch or trailer tongue must be
adjusted during the initial vehicle/trailer fit-
up to ensure a level ride. Ball mounts and
weight distribution hitches are available in
different configurations to adjust the tongue
load and load transfer and hitch ball height.
Trailer Tongue Load
Total Trailer Loadx 100 = 10-15%
Vehicle
Jack
Trailer Tongue Load
Total Trailer Load
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Towing can significantly 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 are 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. In addition, be certain that you have all of the equipment needed for
safe towing, such as safety chains/cables, electric trailer brakes, electric trailer brake controller,
breakaway switch, and extended rear view mirrors.
You should follow a more frequent maintenance schedule and check fluid levels, pressures, tire
condition, etc., more often when on the road. See your vehicle 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 must fall between 10-15% of the total trailer
weight, or within the limits of the maximum trailer tongue load specified by the trailer manufacturer.
Excessive trailer tongue load can actually push down the vehicle in back, lifting the front wheels to
a point where traction, steering response, and braking are severely reduced. Insufficient trailer
tongue load or negative load can lift the trailer tongue upwards on the trailer ball causing instability,
which may lead to “tail wagging” or jackknifing.
With this in mind, proper loading is extremely
important. When loading a trailer, 60% of the total
cargo weight should be positioned in the front
portion of the trailer and 40% in the back. Then the
load should be adjusted until the proper tongue load
ratio is achieved.
60%40%
TOWING SAFETY