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172 STARTING AND OPERATING
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight,
just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some
other connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of
hitches are used to tow small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A Weight-Distributing Hitch system works by applying
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are typically
used for heavier loads to distribute trailer tongue weight to
the tow vehicle's front axle and the trailer axle(s). When
used in accordance with the manufacturer's directions, it
provides for a more level ride, offering more consistent
steering and brake control thereby enhancing towing
safety. The addition of a friction/hydraulic sway control
also dampens sway caused by traffic and crosswinds and
contributes positively to tow vehicle and trailer stability.
Trailer sway control and a weight-distributing (load
equalizing) hitch are recommended for heavier Tongue
Weights (TW) and may be required depending on vehicle
and trailer configuration/loading to comply with Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.
RECOMMENDED DISTRIBUTION HITCH
ADJUSTMENT — QUADRA-LIFT AIR SUSPEN-
SION EQUIPPED VEHICLES
1. Verify that the vehicle is at the Normal Ride Height.
NOTE:
The vehicle must remain in the RUN position with all doors
closed while attaching a trailer for proper leveling of the air
suspension system.
2. Position the vehicle on a level surface in preparation
to connect to the trailer (do not connect the trailer).
3. For vehicles equipped with Quadra-Lift air
suspension, use the touchscreen radio settings to
enable Tire/Jack mode. Tire/Jack mode will be
canceled and the procedure must be restarted if the
vehicle is driven at speeds above 5 mph (8 km/h).
When towing, the automatic Entry/Exit feature may
be disabled through the Uconnect Touchscreen Radio
to prevent vehicle and trailer movement when gear
selector is moved to PARK.
4. Measure the height from the top of the front wheel
opening on the fender to the ground; this is height H1.
Measuring Height (H)
5. Attach the loaded trailer to the vehicle without the
weight distribution bars connected.
6. Measure the height from the top of the front wheel
opening on the fender to the ground; this is height H2.
7. Install and adjust the tension in the
weight-distributing bars per the manufacturers’
recommendations so that the height of the front
fender is approximately (H2-H1)/2+H1 (about
1/2 the difference between H2 and H1 above Normal
Ride Height [H1]).
8. Use the touchscreen radio settings and switch off
Tire/Jack mode. Make sure the vehicle returns to
Normal Ride Height. Perform a visual inspection of
the trailer and weight-distributing hitch to confirm the
manufacturers’ recommendations have been met.
WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight-Distributing Hitch
system may reduce handling, stability, braking
performance, and could result in a collision.
Weight-Distributing Hitch systems may not be compat-
ible with surge brake couplers. Consult with your hitch
and trailer manufacturer or a reputable Recreational
Vehicle dealer for additional information.
23_WS_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 172
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