trailer NISSAN TITAN 2017 2.G Owner's Guide

WARNING
Overloading or improper loading of a
trailer and its cargo can adversely affect
vehicle handling, braking and perfor-
mance and may lead to accidents.
CAUTION
●Do not tow a trailer or haul a heavy load
for the first 500 miles (805 km) . Your
engine, axle or other parts could be
damaged.
● For the first 500 miles (805 km) that you
tow a trailer, do not drive over 50 mph
(80 km/h) and do not make starts at full
throttle. This helps the engine and other
parts of your vehicle wear in at the
heavier load.
Your new vehicle was designed to be used pri-
marily to carry passengers and cargo. Remember
that towing a trailer places additional loads on
your vehicle’s engine, drive train, steering, brak-
ing and other systems.
A NISSAN Towing Guide (U.S. only) is available
on the website at www.nissanusa.com. This
guide includes information on trailer towing ca-
pability and the special equipment required for
proper towing.
MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS
Maximum trailer loads
Never allow the total trailer load to exceed the
value specified in the “Towing
Load/Specification” chart found in this section.
The total trailer load equals trailer weight plus its
cargo weight. ● When towing a trailer load of 3,500 lbs.
(1,587 kg) or more, trailers with a brake
system MUST be used.
The maximum GCWR should not exceed the
value specified in the following “Towing
Load/Specification” chart. The GCWR equals the combined weight of the
towing vehicle (including passengers and cargo)
plus the total trailer load. Towing loads greater
than these or using improper towing equipment
could adversely affect vehicle handling, braking
and performance.
The ability of your vehicle to tow a trailer is not
only related to the maximum trailer loads, but also
the places you plan to tow. Tow weights appro-
priate for level highway driving may have to be
reduced for low traction situations (for example,
on slippery boat ramps) .
LTI0161
TOWING A TRAILER
10-34Technical and consumer information

Temperature conditions can also affect towing.
For example, towing a heavy trailer in high outside
temperatures on graded roads can affect engine
performance and cause overheating. The engine
protection mode, which helps reduce the chance
of engine damage, could activate and automati-
cally decrease engine power. Vehicle speed may
decrease under high load. Plan your trip carefully
to account for trailer and vehicle load, weather
and road conditions.
WARNING
Overheating can result in reduced engine
power and vehicle speed. The reduced
speed may be lower than other traffic,
which could increase the chance of a col-
lision. Be especially careful when driving.
If the vehicle cannot maintain a safe driv-
ing speed, pull to the side of the road in a
safe area. Allow the engine to cool and
return to normal operation. For additional
information, refer to “If your vehicle over-
heats” in the “In case of emergency” sec-
tion of this manual.
CAUTION
Vehicle damage resulting from improper
towing procedures is not covered by
NISSAN warranties.
Tongue load
When using a weight carrying or a weight distrib-
uting hitch, keep the tongue load between 10 -
15% of the total trailer load or use the trailer
tongue load specified by the trailer manufacturer.
The tongue load must be within the maximum
tongue load limits shown in the following “Towing
Load/Specification” chart. If the tongue load be-
comes excessive, rearrange cargo to allow for
proper tongue load.
King pin load
When using a 5th wheel hitch, keep the tongue
load between 15 - 25% of the total trailer load
within the maximum king pin load limits shown in
the following “Towing Load/Specification” chart.
If the king pin load becomes excessive, rearrange
cargo to allow for proper king pin load.
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Technical and consumer information10-35

Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight
(GVW)/maximum Gross Axle Weight
(GAW)
The GVW of the towing vehicle must not exceed
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
shown on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification
label. The GVW equals the combined weight of
the unloaded vehicle, passengers, luggage,
hitch, trailer tongue load and any other optional
equipment. In addition, front or rear GAW must
not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating
(GAWR) shown on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S.
certification label.Towing with Weight Distributing Class 4
Hitch
The Class 4 towing capacities shown in the
towing load specification charts are calculated
per the SAE J2807 standards. Additional pas-
sengers, cargo and/or optional equipment, such
as the trailer hitch, will add weight to the vehicle
and reduce your vehicle’s maximum towing ca-
pacity and trailer tongue load.
The vehicle and trailer need to be weighed to
confirm the vehicle is within the GVWR, Front
GAWR, Rear GAWR, Gross Combined Weight
Rating (GCWR) and Towing capacity.
All vehicle and trailer weights can be measured
using platform type scales commonly found at
truck stops, highway weigh stations, building
supply centers or salvage yards.
Towing with Gooseneck Hitch
The gooseneck towing capacities are calculated
assuming a base vehicle with driver and any
options required to achieve the rating. Additional
passengers, cargo and/or optional equipment,
such as the trailer hitch, will add weight to the
vehicle and reduce your vehicle’s maximum tow-
ing capacity and trailer tongue load.
The vehicle and trailer need to be weighed to
confirm the vehicle is within the GVWR, FrontGAWR, Rear GAWR, Gross Combined Weight
Rating (GCWR) and Towing capacity.
All vehicle and trailer weights can be measured
using platform type scales commonly found at
truck stops, highway weigh stations, building
supply centers or salvage yards.
To determine the available payload capacity for
tongue/king pin load, use the following proce-
dure.
1. Locate the GVWR on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label.
2. Weigh your vehicle on the scale with all of the passengers and cargo that are normally
in the vehicle when towing a trailer.
3. Subtract the actual vehicle weight from the GVWR. The remaining amount is the avail-
able maximum tongue/king pin load.
To determine the available towing capacity, use
the following procedure. 1. Find the GCWR for your vehicle on the Towing Load/Specification chart found in
this section.
2. Subtract the actual vehicle weight from the GCWR. The remaining amount is the avail-
able maximum towing capacity.
CA0036
10-36Technical and consumer information

To determine the Gross Trailer Weight, weigh
your trailer on a scale with all equipment and
cargo, that are normally in the trailer when it is
towed. Make sure the Gross trailer weight is not
more than the Gross Trailer Weight Rating shown
on the trailer and is not more than the calculated
available maximum towing capacity.
Also weigh the front and rear axles on the scale to
make sure the Front Gross Axle Weight and Rear
Gross Axle Weight are not more than Front
Gross Axle Weight and Rear Gross Axle Weight
on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label.
The cargo in the trailer and vehicle may need to
be moved or removed to meet the specified rat-
ings.
Example:● Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) as weighed
on a scale - including passengers, cargo and
hitch - 7,804 lb. (3,540 kg).
● Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) from
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label -
7,804 lb. (3,540 kg).
● Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
from “Towing Load/Specification chart -
19,450 lb. (8,822 kg). ●
Maximum Trailer towing capacity from “Tow-
ing Load/Specification chart - 9,200 lb.
(4,173 kg).
8,990 lb. (4,078 kg) GVWR
– 7,804 lb. (3,540 kg) GVW
= 1,186 lb. (538 kg) Available for tongue/king pin weight
19,450 lb. (8,822 kg) GCWR
– 7,804 lb. (3,540 kg) GVW
= 11,644 lb. (5,282 kg) Capacity available for tow- ing
1,186 lb. (538 kg) Available tongue weight
/ 11,644 lb. (5,282 kg) Available capacity
= 10 % tongue weight
The available towing capacity may be less than
the maximum towing capacity due to the passen-
ger and cargo load in the vehicle.
Remember to keep trailer tongue weight be-
tween 10 - 15% of the trailer weight or within the
trailer tongue weight specification recommended
by the trailer manufacturer. If the tongue weight
becomes excessive, rearrange the cargo to ob-
tain the proper tongue weight. Do not exceed the
maximum tongue weight specification shown in
the “Towing load/specification” chart even if the
calculated available tongue weight is greater
than 15%. If the calculated tongue weight is less than 10%, shift the trailer load forward until the
trailer tongue weight reaches 10% of the trailer
weight.
Always verify that available capacities are within
the required ratings.
TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION
WARNING
The towing capacities provided in this
manual are for general reference only. The
safe towing capacity of your truck is af-
fected by dealer and factory installed op-
tions and passenger and cargo loads. You
must weigh the vehicle and trailer as de-
scribed in this manual to determine the
actual vehicle towing capacity. Do not ex-
ceed the published maximum towing ca-
pacity or the GCWR or the GVWR shown
on the FMVSS/CMVSS label. Doing so
can result in an accident causing serious
personal injury or property damage.
NOTE:
The SAE J2807 Weight Distributing Class 4
Hitch specifications are based on S and SV
grade models . The Gooseneck Hitch speci-
fications are based on SV grade models.
Technical and consumer information10-37

TOWING SAFETY
Trailer hitch
Your vehicle may be equipped with an optional
trailer tow package. The trailer tow package in-
cludes a receiver-type frame mounted hitch. This
hitch is rated for the maximum towing capacity of
this vehicle when the proper towing equipment is
used. Choose a proper ball mount and hitch ball
that is rated for the trailer to be towed. Genuine
NISSAN ball mounts and hitch balls are available
at a NISSAN dealer.
If your vehicle is not equipped with the optional
trailer tow package, check the towing capacity of
your bumper hitch or receiver-type frame
mounted hitch. Choose a proper hitch for your
vehicle and trailer. A Genuine NISSAN trailer
hitch is available at a NISSAN dealer. Make sure
the trailer hitch is securely attached to the vehicle
to help avoid personal injury or property damage
due to sway caused by crosswinds, rough road
surfaces or passing trucks.
A hitch used for towing 5th wheel and gooseneck
trailers can also be installed on your vehicle.
Contact a professional supplier of towing equip-
ment to purchase and have a 5th wheel or goose-
neck hitch installed.
WARNING
Trailer hitch components have specific
weight ratings. Your vehicle may be ca-
pable of towing a trailer heavier than the
weight rating of the hitch components.
Never exceed the weight rating of the
hitch components. Doing so can cause
serious personal injury or property
damage.
Hitch ball
Choose a hitch ball of the proper size and weight
rating for your trailer:● The required hitch ball size is stamped on
most trailer couplers. Most hitch balls also
have the size printed on the top of the ball.
● Choose the proper class hitch ball based on
the trailer weight.
● The diameter of the threaded shank of the
hitch ball must be matched to the ball mount
hole diameter. The hitch ball shank should
be no more than 1/16” smaller than the hole
in the ball mount. ●
The threaded shank of the hitch ball must be
long enough to be properly secured to the
ball mount. There should be at least 2
threads showing beyond the lock washer
and nut.
Ball mount
The hitch ball is attached to the ball mount and
the ball mount is inserted into the hitch receiver.
Choose a proper class ball mount based on the
trailer weight. Additionally, the ball mount should
be chosen to keep the trailer tongue level with the
ground.
Technical and consumer information10-41

Bumper towing
The Genuine NISSAN step bumper has provi-
sions to install a trailer hitch ball and is designed
to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 5,000 lb
(2,268 kg).
NOTE:
The tailer hitch ball can not be installed on
the step bumper if the receiver-type frame
mounted hitch is installed on the vehicle.
To install a trailer hitch ball cut out the circle in the
center of the step bumper
A, then remove it to
install the trailer hitch ball.
Weight carrying hitches
A weight carrying or “dead weight” ball mount is
one that is designed to carry the whole amount of
tongue weight and gross weight directly on the
ball mount and on the receiver.
Weight distribution hitch
This type of hitch is also called a “load-leveling” or
“equalizing” hitch. A set of bars attach to the ball
mount and to the trailer to distribute the tongue
weight (hitch weight) of your trailer. Many ve-
hicles can’t carry the full tongue weight of a given
trailer, and need some of the tongue weight
transferred through the frame and pushing down
on the front wheels. This gives stability to the tow
vehicle.
A weight-distributing hitch system (Class IV) is
recommended if you plan to tow trailers with a
maximum weight over 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg).
Check with the trailer and towing equipment
manufacturers to determine if they recommend
the use of a weight-distributing hitch system. NOTE:
A weight-distributing hitch system may af-
fect 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 manufac-
turer for installing and using the weight-
distributing hitch system.
General set-up instructions are as follows:
1. Park unloaded vehicle on a level surface. With the ignition on and the doors closed,
allow the vehicle to stand for several minutes
so that it can level.
2. Measure the height of a reference point on the front and rear bumpers at the center of
the vehicle.
3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and adjust the hitch equalizers so that the front bumper
height is within0-.5inches (0 – 13 mm) of
the reference height measured in step 2. The
rear bumper should be no higher than the
reference height measured in step 2.
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10-42Technical and consumer information

WARNING
Properly adjust the weight distributing
hitch so the rear of the bumper is no
higher than the measured reference
height when the trailer is attached. If the
rear bumper is higher than the measured
reference height when loaded, the vehicle
may handle unpredictably which could
cause a loss of vehicle control and cause
serious personal injury or property
damage.
Sway control device
Sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and buffeting
caused by other vehicles can affect trailer han-
dling. Sway control devices may be used to help
control these affects. 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 sys-
tem. Follow the instructions provided by the
manufacturer for installing and using the sway
control device.
Class I hitch
Class I trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball
mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers
of a maximum weight of 2,000 lb (907 kg) .
Class II hitch
Class II trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball
mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers
of a maximum weight of 3,500 lb (1,587 kg).
Class III hitch
Class III trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball
mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers
of a maximum weight of 5,000 lb (2,268 kg).
Class IV hitch
Class IV hitches are weight carrying (WC) and
weight distributing (WD) hitches depending on
the vehicle and hitch specifications. Not all Class
IV hitches are rated to be both. See the specific
hitch for that information. Class IV trailer hitch
equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball)
used as weight carrying are rated up to 10,000 lb
(4,535 kg) gross trailer weight (GTW) with a
maximum trailer tongue weight (TW) of 1000 lb
(453 kg) . Class IV hitches used for weight dis-
tributing are rated up to 14,000 lb (6,350 kg)
gross trailer weight (GTW) with a maximum trailer
tongue weight (TW) of 1400 lb (635 kg) . A Class
IV hitch usually has a 2square receiver opening.
A higher class drawbar does not increase the
towing capacity of the hitch. To use this class of
hitch for weight distribution requires a weight
distribution system. Class IV hitches attach to the vehicle frame only. A weight distributing hitch
should be used to tow trailers that weigh over
5,000 lb (2,268 kg).
Your vehicle may be equipped with Class IV
weigh distributing trailer hitch that has a
14,000 lb (6,350 kg) maximum weight rating, but
your vehicle is only capable of towing the maxi-
mum trailer weights shown in the “Towing
Load/Specification” chart in this section.
5th wheel/gooseneck
A 5th wheel or gooseneck trailer can be towed by
installing a 5th wheel or gooseneck trailer hitch.
These types of hitches are mounted in the bed of
the pick-up. A professional trailer equipment sup-
plier should install these hitches as it is very
important to mount the hitch correctly to distrib-
ute the king pin weight for the proper load carry-
ing and sway control performance.
The king pin weight should be 15% of the fully
loaded trailer. Make sure the king pin weight does
not cause the gross vehicle weight to exceed the
Gross Maximum Weight Rating or the rear axle
weight to exceed the Rear Gross Axle Weight
rating. For additional information, refer to “Maxi-
mum load limits” in this section.
Technical and consumer information10-43

The weight of the trailer should not exceed the
maximum towing capacity for the vehicle. For
additional information, refer to “Towing
Load/Specification” chart in this section.
Make sure the trailer design allows for the correct
vehicle to trailer clearances before purchasing a
5th wheel trailer.
WARNING
●The hitch should not be attached to or
affect the operation of the impact-
absorbing bumper.
● Do not use axle-mounted hitches.
● Do not modify the vehicle exhaust sys-
tem, brake system, etc. to install a
trailer hitch.
● To reduce the possibility of additional
damage if your vehicle is struck from
the rear, where practical, remove the
receiver when not in use.
● Regularly check that all trailer hitch
mounting bolts are securely mounted.
● When towing with the hitch ball
mounted to the rear bumper, do not
make sharp turns. The trailer may con-
tact the bumper and cause damage to
the bumper or trailer. ●
When towing a 5th wheel trailer, do not
make sharp turns while driving or back-
ing. The trailer may contact the vehicle
and cause damage to both the trailer
and vehicle.
CAUTION
● A 5th wheel hitch adapter is necessary
to use an aftermarket 5th wheel hitch. A
Genuine NISSAN 5th wheel hitch
adapter (as shown) may be available at
a NISSAN dealer.
● Ensure kit components are properly
stored when not in use. Improperly
stowed components could result in se-
rious personal injury during a collision
or sudden stop.
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10-44Technical and consumer information

8. Rotate the safety chain anchor attachments90° until the center of the anchor seats into
place. NOTE:
Removal of the gooseneck hitch ball and
safety chain anchor attachments are in the
reverse order of installation. To remove
safety chain anchor attachment, lift the
center
1, rotate 90°, and lift safety chain
anchor attachment away.
Tire pressures
● When towing a trailer, inflate the ve-
hicle tires to the recommended cold
tire pressure indicated on the Tire
and Loading Information label. ●
Trailer tire condition, size, load rating
and proper inflation pressure should
be in accordance with the trailer and
tire manufacturer’s specifications.
Safety chains
Always use suitable safety chains between your
vehicle and the trailer. The safety chains should
be crossed and should be attached to the hitch,
not to the vehicle bumper or axle. The safety
chains can be attached to the bumper if the hitch
ball is mounted to the bumper. Be sure to leave
enough slack in the chains to permit turning
corners.
LTI2212LTI2192
Technical and consumer information10-47

Trailer lights
CAUTION
When splicing into the vehicle electrical
system, a commercially available power-
type module/converter must be used to
provide power for all trailer lighting. This
unit uses the vehicle battery as a direct
power source for all trailer lights while
using the vehicle tail light, stoplight and
turn signal circuits as a signal source. The
module/converter must draw no more that
15 milliamps from the stop and tail lamp
circuits. Using a module/converter that
exceeds these power requirements may
damage the vehicle’s electrical system.
See a reputable trailer retailer to obtain
the proper equipment and to have it
installed.
Trailer lights should comply with federal and/or
local regulations. For assistance in hooking up
trailer lights, it is recommended that you contact a
NISSAN dealer or reputable trailer retailer. Ve-
hicles equipped with the optional trailer tow
package are equipped with a 7-pin trailer har-
ness connector. If your trailer is equipped with a
flat 4-pin connector, an adapter will be needed to
connect the trailer lights to the vehicle. Adapters
are available at auto parts stores and hitch retail-
ers.
Trailer brakes (if so equipped)
If your trailer is equipped with a braking system,
make sure it conforms to federal and/or local
regulations and that it is properly installed.
Vehicles equipped with a 7–pin trailer harness
connector are pre-wired for a trailer brake con-
troller. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN
dealer for a trailer brake adapter harness.
When towing a trailer load of 3,500 lbs.
(1587 kg) or more, trailers with a brake
system MUST be used. However, most states
require a separate braking system on trailers with
a loaded weight above a specific amount. Make
sure the trailer meets the local regulations and
the regulations where you plan to tow.
WARNING
The Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR) must never exceed the vehicle
manufacturers recommendation.
Several types of braking systems are available.
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 op-
eration between the tow vehicle and the trailer.
CAUTION
Your factory trailer brake control unit will
not activate surge-style trailer brakes
Electric Trailer Brakes - Electric braking sys-
tems are activated by an electronic signal sent
from a trailer brake controller (special brake-
sensing module) . If electric trailer brakes are
used, refer to “Electric trailer brake controller in
this section.
Have a professional supplier of towing equip-
ment make sure the trailer brakes are properly
installed and demonstrate proper brake function
testing.
WARNING
The NISSAN trailer brake controller has
been verified to be compatible with trail-
ers having electric actuated drum brakes
(one to four axles) and electric-over-
hydraulic brakes. It will not activate hy-
draulic surge-style trailer brakes
10-48Technical and consumer information