NISSAN 2008 Versa Hatchback - Towing Guide - Manual (Page 8)

2008 Nissan Towing Guide 7
from the tow vehicle.
The diameter of the hitch ball shank must be matched to the ball mount hole diameter. The
shank should be no more than
1
/
16
” smaller than the hole.
To keep the hitch ball in top condition, a simple maintenance routine is recommended.
Coating it with light grease will minimize wear of both the coupler and hitch ball. Also, by
removing the hitch ball when not towing, or by protecting it with a special cover, you will help
prevent rust from forming on it.
TRAILER TONGUE
The tongue is the part of the trailer that extends forward to meet the tow vehicle, and it also
carries the coupler assembly. Knowledge of the trailer tongue load (conventional trailers) and
king pin load (5th wheel and gooseneck trailers) is critical as it can have a significant effect on
the handling of the tow vehicle. See the SPECIFICATIONS section of this guide or refer to
your vehicle owner’s manual to view the maximum conventional trailer tongue load listed for
your vehicle.
SAFETY CHAINS/CABLES
Always use suitable safety chains/cables between the tow vehicle and the trailer. If the hitch
should break or become disengaged for some reason, these chains/cables will provide an
emergency connection between the
vehicle and the trailer.
The chains/cables should be
crossed under the trailer tongue and
attached to the hitch or vehicle frame.
Crossing the chains/cables under the
tongue will help prevent the tongue
from hitting the ground should the trailer
become disconnected.
Be sure to leave enough slack in the
chains/cables to turn corners without
binding; however, note that excessive
slack will allow the chains/cables to
drag on the ground.
Do not use S-hooks for attaching, as
they may become un-hooked and are
illegal in many states. To avoid damage
Not OK
OK