2009 Maxima Owner's Manual

● The threaded shank of the hitch ball must be
long enough to be properly secured to the
ball mount. There should be at least 2
threads showing beyond the lock washer
and nut.
Ball mount
You may add Class I trailer hitch equipment that
has a 2,000 lb (909 kg) maximum weight rating to
the vehicle, but your vehicle is only capable of
towing the maximum trailer weights shown in the
Towing Load/Specification Chart earlier in this
section.
The hitch ball is attached to the ball mount and
CAUTION
the ball mount is inserted into the hitch receiver.
Choose a proper class ball mount based on the
trailer weight. Additionally, the ball mount should
be chosen to keep the trailer tongue level with the
ground.
● Do not use axle-mounted hitches.
● The hitch should not be attached to or
affect the operation of the impactabsorbing
bumper.
Sway control device
● Do not modify the vehicle exhaust system,
brake system, etc. to install a
Sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and buffeting
trailer hitch.
caused by other vehicles can affect trailer han- ● To reduce the possibility of additional
dling. Sway control devices may be used to help damage if your vehicle is struck from
control these affects. If you choose to use one, the rear, where practical, remove the
contact a reputable trailer hitch supplier to make receiver when not in use.
sure the sway control device will work with the
vehicle, hitch, trailer and the trailer’s brake system.
Follow the instructions provided by the
manufacturer for installing and using the sway
control device.
● After the hitch is removed, seal the bolt
holes to prevent exhaust fumes, water
or dust from entering the passenger
compartment.
Class I hitch
Class I trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball
mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers
of a maximum weight of 2,000 lb (909 kg).
● Regularly check that all trailer hitch
mounting bolts are securely mounted.
9-20 Technical and consumer information
Tire pressures
● When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle
tires to the recommended cold
tire pressure indicated on the Tire
and Loading Information label.
● Trailer tire condition, size, load rating
and proper inflation pressure should
be in accordance with the trailer and
tire manufacturer’s specifications.
Safety chains
Always use suitable safety chains between your
vehicle and the trailer. The safety chains should
be crossed and should be attached to the hitch,
not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to leave
enough slack in the chains to permit turning
corners.