Safe Towing with Your Nissan Truck
If you are like many Nissan truck owners, you appreciate the strength and power that your truck provides. Towing capacity is one of the main features that truck owners enjoy. However, towing is not as simple as just hitching up and taking off. Improper towing could damage your truck or trailer, or even cause a tragic accident. Provided here are a few tips on safely towing with your Nissan truck.
Know Your Maximum Towing Weight
Nissan provides guidelines for maximum gross trailer weight (GTW) in each owner’s manual. Remember that the gross weight includes not only the weight of the trailer itself, but everything inside. Exceeding the maximum weight is highly dangerous, so be sure to weigh the trailer at a truck stop or other facility if you may be near the maximum.
Proper Loading
Even if your load is well within the maximum weight allowance, if it is not properly loaded then you tow will be unsafe. Load the heaviest items on the bottom and be sure to distribute the load evenly from side to side. Approximately 60% of the total load should be located forward of the trailer’s axle. It is also important to use approved tie-downs to prevent the load from shifting while you drive.
Inspection
Before you take off, take the time to fully inspect your entire setup. Ensure that the trailer lights and brakes are working properly. Make sure that your tie-downs are secure. Inspect your hitch and electrical connections. Drive forward and backward at slow speeds to ensure that everything is as it should be.
Towing is an important capability of your Nissan truck. However, it is very important that you take the time to properly set up your tow. Tomorrow we will discuss the unique challenges of driving a tow vehicle and give you a few suggestions for safer driving.
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