Cadillac 2009 owner manual Total Weight on the Vehicle’s Tires, Hitches

least 10 percent of total loaded trailer weight, expect that the largest trailer the vehicle can properly handle is 6,000 lbs (2 721 kg).

It is important that the vehicle does not exceed any of its ratings — GCWR, GVWR, RGAWR, Maximum Trailer Rating or Tongue Weight. The only way to be sure it

is not exceeding any of these ratings is to weigh the vehicle and trailer.

Total Weight on the Vehicle’s Tires

Be sure the vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. These numbers can be found on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver door or see Loading Your Vehicle for more information.

Make sure not to go over the GVW limit for the vehicle, or the GAWR, including the weight of the trailer tongue. If using a weight distributing hitch, make sure not to go over the rear axle limit before applying

the weight distribution spring bars.

Hitches

It is important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why the right hitch is needed.

Weight-Distributing Hitches and Weight Carrying Hitches

(A) Body-to-Ground Distance (B) Front of Vehicle

When using a weight-distributing hitch, the hitch must be adjusted so that the distance (A) remains the same both before and after coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle.

If a step-bumper hitch is used, the bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there is ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper.

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