Jeep 2016 CHEROKEE Operating Information Manual - page 293
Trailer And Tongue Weight
Always load a trailer with 60% of the weight in
the front of the trailer. Loads balanced over the
wheels, or heavier in the rear, can cause the
trailer to sway
severely
side-to-side which will
cause loss of control of vehicle and trailer.
Failure to load trailers heavier in front is the
cause of many trailer accidents. Never exceed
the maximum tongue weight stamped on your
trailer hitch.
Consider the following items when computing
the weight on the front/rear axles of the vehicle:
•
The trailer tongue weight of the trailer.
•
The weight of any other type of cargo or
equipment put in or on your vehicle.
•
The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:
Remember that everything put into or on the
trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Also,
additional factory-installed options, or au-
thorized dealer-installed options, must be
considered as part of the total load on your
vehicle. Refer to the tire loading information
placard located on the drivers door pillar for
the maximum combined weight of occu-
pants and cargo for your vehicle.
Towing Requirements
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle
drivetrain components, the following guidelines
are recommended.
CAUTION!
•
Do not tow a trailer at all during the first
500 miles (805 km) the new vehicle is
driven. The engine, axle or other parts
could be damaged.
•
Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km)
that a trailer is towed, 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 the vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.
Perform the maintenance listed in the “Service
and Warranty Handbook.” Refer to “Service and
Warranty Handbook” for the proper mainte-
nance intervals. When towing a trailer, never
exceed the GAWR or GCWR ratings.
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