weight INFINITI QX80 2017 Towing Guide
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: INFINITI, Model Year: 2017, Model line: QX80, Model: INFINITI QX80 2017Pages: 25, PDF Size: 0.29 MB
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RENTING
The first thing to keep in mind when renting any type of tow equipment, trailer, tow dolly, is to rent
only from professional companies that specialize in towing and towing equipment. Specialized
companies should 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. Make certain that the tow equipment and
components you rent not exceed your maximum towing capacity. Make sure that any related towing
equipment you rent has the proper weight class rating for your maximum intended towed load
weight, and the maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating.
While you are at the rental company, 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, dolly, or piece of tow 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.
WARNING: NEVER RENT A CLAMP-ON-TYPE HITCH. The hitch should not be attached to or affect
the operation of the impact-absorbing bumper. Use only a permanent-type hitch properly attached
to the vehicle to help avoid personal injury or property damage.
PURCHASING
If you are buying a 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 federal safety
regulations, as well as any regulations in any state in which you may travel.
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 trailer, tow dollies or towing equipment you intend to tow. In
addition, keep the following in mind:
WARNING- Never modify the vehicle’s braking or exhaust systems or its body structure/frame
when installing the hitch. Altering the brakes or structure on a vehicle could increase the likelihood
of a crash.
Installing an aftermarket hitch may affect the rear crash performance of your vehicle. Changing
the crash performance of a vehicle could lead to more severe vehicle damage, personal injury or
death in a crash. Be sure that the hitch does not interfere in any way with the vehicle’s impact-
absorbing bumper.
Never attach a hitch or towing device to the vehicle bumper. This may affect the operation of the
impact-absorbing bumper. Use only a permanent-type hitch properly attached to the vehicle to
help avoid personal injury or property damage.
Regularly check to see that all hitch-mounting bolts are securely fastened to ensure
the hitch will not come loose, and remains properly attached to the vehicle to help
avoid property damage, personal injury or death.
CAUTION- For receiver-type hitches using a ball mount, the ball mount should be removed when
not towing, or by protecting it with a special cover, this will help protect it from damage, and
prevent rust from forming on it.
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 owner’s manual for the equipment class information specific to your vehicle.
WHAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU
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Hitch Types
Receiver Hitch – A receiver hitch is bolted directly
to the vehicle structure for added strength and
durability. INFINITI bolt-on receiver hitches are
designed specifically for INFINITI vehicles and
include the necessary reinforcements, with ample
clearance around bumpers, frame members, etc.
These hitches allow for the removal of the ball mount
when not towing. Choose a proper class ball mount
based on the trailer weight.
Clamp-On Bumper Hitch – This is a temporary hitch
that clamps onto the bumper assembly.
WARNING: DO NOT USE this type of clamp-on
bumper hitch on any INFINITI vehicle because using
it may result in the trailer separating from the towing
vehicle. If the trailer separates from the vehicle, it
could cause a crash, resulting in property damage
and personal injury, or death. Use of this type of
hitch can also damage the towing vehicle.
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.
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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. Choose a
proper class ball mount based on the trailer weight.
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.
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 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.
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 ultimate combined breaking
strength of the two chains must be equal to the gross weight of the towed vehicle(s).
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.
WARNING- Do not use S-hooks for attaching the safety chains as they may become un-hooked
while towing. If the S-hook unhooks, the emergency chains/cables will become detached, so if the
tow hitch breaks or becomes disengaged, it will allow the trailer to completely break away causing
property damage and possibly personal injury or death. The use of S-hooks is illegal in many states.
CAUTION- 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
WARNING- In many cases, a trailer can block your rear vision when you are using only the
standard INFINITI rear view and outside mirrors. Be careful when changing lanes or turning. Using
only these mirrors could cause an accident as they 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.
SWAY CONTROL DEVICE
Sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and buffeting caused by other vehicles can affect trailer handling.
Sway control devices may help control the pivoting motion between tow vehicle and trailer and
make trailer towing easier on the driver. If you choose to use one, contact a reputable trailer hitch
supplier to make sure the sway control device will work with the vehicle, hitch, trailer and the
trailer’s brake system.
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A sway control device is recommended for all towing above 2,000 lb (907 kg). Too low a
percentage of tongue weight can also cause sway. Follow the instructions provided by the
manufacturer for installing and using the sway control device.
BREAKAWAY SWITCH
On a trailer with electric brakes, a breakaway switch can automatically activate the trailer brake
system if the trailer becomes separated from the tow vehicle. Should the trailer become detached,
a breakaway switch may help prevent the trailer from wandering into another lane.
WARNING-A breakaway switch relies on the power of a trailer battery, so make sure it is not
discharged. Never use the breakaway switch to “park” the trailer on a grade. The battery would
eventually discharge and release the brake, allowing the trailer to roll.
Be sure to leave enough
slack in the tether on the breakaway switch to turn corners without binding. If you do not, the
electric trailer brakes will lock-up and not release. See your trailer manufacturer for proper
installation of a breakaway switch that is compatible with your trailer braking system.
TRAILER LIGHTS
Trailer lights should comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, and should be
in proper working order at all times. If your vehicle is equipped with a towing package, a 7-pin
trailer harness connector is located at the trailer hitch, under a cover on the rear bumper on some
models for connecting trailer lights. For trailers that use a different style plug, contact your INFINITI
retailer or a professional supplier of towing equipment for adaptors to the 7-pin trailer harness.
A trailer’s taillights, stoplights, and turn signal lights must be wired into the towing vehicle’s
electrical system.* Most trailers operate on a four-wire system in which the stoplights and turn
signal lights utilize the same wire. Most all INFINITI vehicles have separate wires for the stoplights
and turn signal lights, therefore a device called a “converter” is needed.** Specifically, a “powered
converter” must be used, as a converter of this type creates only minimal additional electrical
demand (draw) on the vehicle lighting circuits, which helps to ensure protection for the vehicle’s
sensitive electronics.* Always check for correct operation of the taillights, stoplights, and turn
signal lights every time you connect a trailer for towing. Never replace vehicle fuses with fuses of a
higher amperage rating than the original.
*Vehicles equipped with LED taillights require that wiring be connected at a specific location. For assistance in
hooking up trailer lights, contact your INFINITI retailer or a professional supplier of towing equipment.
**QX80 and QX60 vehicles are pre-wired for trailer lighting and do not require a converter.
CAUTION – Improperly installed or poor quality trailer harness wiring may adversely 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.
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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 and laws. Have a professional supplier of towing
equipment demonstrate proper brake function testing.
Never connect a trailer brake system directly to the vehicle brake system. Trailer brakes
must be connected so that in the case of a breakaway from the towing vehicle, the trailer brakes
system shall automatically apply to stop the trailer to help ensure against the possibility of a
serious accident and personal injury or death.
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 the installation of a trailer brake controller. If you use an all-electronic actuation
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, QX80 and QX60 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.
CAUTION- 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 and to have it installed.
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
CAUTION- INFINITI recommends that you allow a sufficient “break-in” (500 miles) of both the
engine and drivetrain before towing with your new INFINITI vehicle. DO NOT tow a trailer or haul a
heavy load for the first 500 miles. For the first 500 miles that that you tow a trailer, do not drive
over 50 mph and do not make starts at full throttle. Following these recommendations helps your
engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at heavier loads.
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 safer, 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:
Gross Vehicle Weight
Gross Axle Weight (Front and Rear)
Gross Combined Weight
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).
WARNING- Attempting to tow loads greater than the GVWR, GAWR, GCWR, and the trailer tongue
load specified could adversely affect vehicle handling, braking, and performance. If you do, parts
of your vehicle can break, and tire damage could occur as a result of overloading which may not be
covered by your vehicle warranty. Overloading can also result in loss of control of your vehicle and
which could cause a serious accident, personal injury or death.
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GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT (GVW)
The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the actual weight of the fully loaded vehicle or trailer, including
passengers, cargo, and 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. That figure must include the combined
weight of all passengers and cargo that are normally in
the vehicle when towing a trailer.
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. Weigh your
vehicle on the scale with all of the passengers and cargo
that are normally in the vehicle when pulling a trailer.
Subtract the actual vehicle weight from the GVWR. The
remaining amount is the available maximum tongue/king
pin load.
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 any 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 placed on a single axle (front and rear) that it
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 cargo in the trailer and the vehicle may have to be moved, or removed to meet the
specified rating.
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.