Hitches
It is important to have the correct
hitch equipment. Crosswinds,
large trucks going by and rough
roads are a few reasons why
you will need the right hitch.
Here are some rules to follow:
Do not let the steel in a hitch
contact the aluminum on your
bumper because it can corrode.
Use something like paint or plastic
tape to separate the steel and
aluminum. The same steel to
aluminum problem can happen
with fasteners too.
Will you have to make any holes
in the body of your vehicle when
you install a trailer hitch? If you
do, then be sure to seal the holes
later when you remove the hitch.
If you do not seal them, deadly
carbon monoxide (CO) from the
exhaust can get into your vehicle.
See “Engine Exhaust” in the
Index. Dirt and water can too.
Safety Chains
You should always attach chains
between your vehicle and your
trailer. Cross the safety chains
under the tongue of the trailer
so that the tongue will not drop
to the road if it becomes separated
from the hitch. Instructions about
safety chains may be provided
by the hitch manufacturer or by
the trailer manufacturer. Follow the
manufacturer’s recommendation for
attaching safety chains and do not
attach them to the bumper. Leave
sufficient slack in the chain for turns.
Never allow safety chains to drag on
the ground.
Trailer Brakes
Does your trailer have its own
brakes?
Be sure to read and follow the
instructions for the trailer brakes so
you will be able to install, adjust and
maintain them properly. If you have
antilock brakes, do not tap into your
vehicle’s brake system. If you do,
both systems will not work well,
or at all.
Driving with a Trailer
Towing a trailer requires a certain
amount of experience. Get to know
the rig before setting out for the open
road. Acquaint yourself with the feel
of handling and braking with the
added weight of the trailer. And
always keep in mind that the vehicle
you are driving is now a good deal
longer and not nearly as responsive
as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check the trailer
hitch, platform and attachments,
safety chains, electrical connector,
lamps, tires and mirror adjustment.
If the trailer has electric brakes, start
your vehicle and trailer moving and
then apply the trailer brake controller
by hand to be sure the brakes
are working. This lets you check
your electrical connection at the
same time.
During your trip, check occasionally
to be sure that the load is secure,
and that the lamps and any
trailer brakes are still working.
9-80 Vehicle Service and Care
2009 - Pontiac Vibe Owner Manual
