warning INFINITI QX80 2021 Towing Guide
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: INFINITI, Model Year: 2021, Model line: QX80, Model: INFINITI QX80 2021Pages: 26, PDF Size: 0.6 MB
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
Introduction
2
Towing Equipment
3
What Is Right for You
9
Preparing Your Vehicle
13
Towing Safety
16
Towing Tips
21
Towing Glossary
22
Protection
23
Total Ownership Experience
INFINITI
TOWING GUIDE
The 2021 INFINITI Towing Guide provides information for
currently available 2021 INFINITI vehicles. This publication will
be amended as new vehicles are introduced.
2021
For important safety warnings, please read and follow your vehicle owner’s manual.
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RENTING
The first thing to keep in mind when renting any type of tow equipment, trailer or 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 do not exceed your vehicle’s 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.
TOWING EQUIPMENT
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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.
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- If you have a receiver-type hitch using a ball mount; remove the ball mount
when not towing, or protect it with a special cover, this will help keep 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
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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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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.
A sway control device is recommended for all towing above 2,000 lb (907 kg). If the
tongue weight percentage is low it can also cause sway. Follow the instructions provided
by the manufacturer for installing and using the sway control device.
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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.
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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PREPARING YOUR VEHICLE
BREAK-IN AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
CAUTION- INFINITI recommends that you allow a sufficient “break-in” 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 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 Owner’s
Manual & 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, or
crossover vehicle — 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- curb weight of vehicle plus the combined weight of
passengers and cargo
Gross Axle Weight (Front and Rear)- maximum weight (load limit)that can be
specified for front or rear axle
Gross Combined Weight- maximum total weight of vehicle, passengers, cargo,
and trailer
Trailer Tongue Load- the weight exerted at the vehicle-trailer coupling point
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, stability,
braking, and performance. Parts of your vehicle can break, and tire damage could
occur as a result of overloading; this 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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height. On some tandem axle trailers an incorrect hitch height can result in uneven
trailer axle loading.
WARNING- Towing can significantly alter the handling, stability and performance
characteristics of your vehicle. Moreover, 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.
WARNING- Always make sure your vehicle’s towing capacity is adequate for the
trailer you intend to tow. Be certain that you have all of the proper equipment needed
for safe towing, such as safety chains/cables, electric trailer brakes, electric trailer
brake controller, breakaway switch, and extended rear view mirrors. Make certain
your equipment conforms to all federal, state or local regulations to help avoid against
the possibility of a serious accident and personal injury or death.
You should follow a more frequent maintenance schedule and check fluid levels,
pressures, tire condition, etc., more often when on the road. Refer to your vehicle
owner’s manual for details. It is recommended you visit an INFINITI retailer for service.
LOADING YOUR TRAILER
WARNING- 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 and stability which
could result in a serious accident, personal injury or death. Careful loading and
balancing, and a weight distribution hitch and sway-control device 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.
WARNING- Excessive trailer tongue load can actually push down the tow vehicle in
back, lifting the front wheels to a point where traction, steering response, and braking
may be severely reduced. which could result in an accident, personal injury or death.
Too little trailer tongue load or negative load can lift the trailer tongue upwards on the
trailer ball causing instability, which may lead to swaying, “tail wagging,” or jackknifing
which could result in an accident, personal injury or death.
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
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WARNING-The trailer load should be
balanced equally from side-to-side.
Unequal side-to-side loading can negatively
affect handling and braking. Once in
place, all cargo should be firmly secured to
prevent shifting. If the load should shift
abruptly during braking or cornering, it
could adversely affect the handling and
stability of your vehicle and cause a
very unsafe situation and may lead to an
accident or personal injury.
● DO NOT carry flammable materials, such as
gasoline, in your trailer. In the event of an
accident, it may result in an explosion, fire,
or personal injury or death.
PROVIDING FOR VEHICLE/TRAILER STABILITY
WARNING- Improper loading, excessive or insufficient trailer tongue load,
overloading, excessive trailer weight, poorly designed trailer suspensions, crosswinds,
and poor maintenance are all things that can affect the stability of your vehicle
and trailer combination. Vehicle instability may result in loss of vehicle control and
cause an accident, personal injury or death.
If swaying occurs, gradually reduce speed, and apply only the trailer brakes to help
reduce sway. Steady the steering wheel and gradually pull over and stop to check
the cargo load for proper balance and distribution to ensure proper trailer tongue
load. In addition, check the condition of the suspension and shocks, as well as the tires,
tire pressures, and wheel bearings on both the tow vehicle and trailer.
If the swaying continues and your trailer is suitably balanced and within the towing
capacity limits of your vehicle, discontinue towing and consult your INFINITI retailer or
trailer manufacturer to determine the problem.
VEHICLE SPEED
Please note that some states have specific regulations and speed limits for vehicles
that are towing trailers. Remember to reduce your speed in unsafe or less-than-ideal
road conditions or weather. When towing a trailer, braking distances increase while
handling agility decreases. Always leave yourself an extra margin of distance to
respond to emergencies.
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PASSENGERS
WARNING- Never allow passengers to ride inside a trailer while it is being towed.
Not only is this unlawful in most areas, passengers could be seriously injured during
sudden trailer movement or in an accident. In addition, trailers may allow fumes from
the tow vehicle to leak inside. This could result in carbon monoxide poisoning from the
engine exhaust.
VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS
WARNING - DO NOT modify your vehicle beyond those required for proper hitch
installation, wiring hook-up, or adding extended mirrors on any INFINITI vehicle being
used for towing purposes. Changes to the drivetrain, suspension, exhaust systems,
electrical, frame structure/unibody, or other vehicle components are not necessary for
towing within the limits described in this guide. These changes may diminish the
reliability and longevity of your vehicle, and damage caused by such modifications
may not be covered under your vehicle’s warranty or may possibly result in loss of
vehicle control and cause an accident, personal injury or death.
TOOL KIT
When towing, bring tools including flares, a flashlight, emergency reflectors, jumper
cables, extra fuses, extra radiator coolant, oil, and easily replaced spare parts such as
taillight bulbs. You should also carry spare tires for your tow vehicle and trailer, as well
as a jack suitable for use on the trailer. Choose a jack that can raise and lower the
trailer so that you can connect the coupler to and disconnect it from the ball of your
hitch. Choose one with a weight capacity that matches or surpasses your trailer
tongue weight.
WARNING- Be aware that your automotive jack is designed for lifting only your
vehicle during a tire change. Using an automobile jack to lift a trailer-bearing load may
be unstable possibly causing it to fall off the jack stand which may result in property
damage or serious injury or death.
BEFORE STARTING OUT
Before starting out on a trip, make one last inspection of the tow vehicle and the trailer.
Are the tire pressures correct? Are the safety chains/cables securely in place? Is the
cargo tied down securely? Do all the lights work? Is the coupler properly attached over
the hitch ball and secured using a locking pin? Is the breakaway switch hooked up
and functioning properly? Are vehicle and electric trailer brakes working properly?
Make a checklist of key items to inspect. When towing, vehicle engine oil, transmission
oil*, and coolant should always be checked before starting out. Finding a potential
problem while in your driveway is better than discovering it miles from home.
If you have never towed a trailer before, be aware that it does take getting used to.
*When checking or replacement is required, it is recommended you visit an INFINITI retailer for
service.
TOWING TIPS/CAUTIONS &