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TOWING A TRAILER<br />
IMPORTANT<br />
The vehicle must be fitted with a homologated<br />
tow hitch and suitable electrical<br />
system for towing a caravan or<br />
trailer. Have the tow hitch fitted by an<br />
expert who will issue specific documentation<br />
for use on roads.<br />
Fit special wing mirrors in accordance<br />
with the highway code.<br />
Remember that towing a trailer<br />
makes it harder for the vehicle to<br />
climb the maximum gradients specified,<br />
increases braking and overtaking<br />
distance, proportionally to the overall<br />
weight of the trailer.<br />
Engage a low gear when driving<br />
downhill rather than constantly braking.<br />
The weight the trailer exerts on the<br />
vehicle’s tow hitch coupling reduces<br />
the vehicle’s payload by the same<br />
amount.<br />
In order to be sure you are not exceeding<br />
the maximum towing weight<br />
(shown in the log book) you have to<br />
take into account the trailer weight fully<br />
laden including the accessories and<br />
personal luggage.<br />
Do not exceed the speed limits for<br />
towing a trailer in the country you are<br />
driving in. In any case, do not exceed<br />
the top speed of 100 km/h.<br />
WARNING<br />
Where your vehicle is<br />
equipped with ABS, remember<br />
that this has no effect over<br />
the trailer braking system. Particular<br />
care must be taken on slippery<br />
surfaces.<br />
WARNING<br />
Under no circumstances<br />
modify the vehicle’s braking<br />
system for trailer braking control.<br />
The trailer braking system must be<br />
completely independent from the<br />
vehicle hydraulic system.<br />
TOW HITCH INSTALLATION<br />
The tow hitch must be fixed to the<br />
body by an expert in accordance with<br />
the following instructions and respecting<br />
the additional and/or integrative<br />
information provided by the tow<br />
hitch manufacturer.<br />
The tow hitch to be fitted must comply<br />
with the current regulations in<br />
force, with reference to Directive<br />
94/20/CEE and subsequent modifications.<br />
Use a tow hitch suited for the maximum<br />
towable load of the vehicle version<br />
on which the tow hitch is to be fitted.<br />
Use a unified coupling for the electrical<br />
connections. The coupling is generally<br />
fitted on a specific mount fastened<br />
to the tow hitch.<br />
For the electrical connections, a 7 or<br />
13 pole 12VDC coupling must be used<br />
(CUNA/UNI and ISO/DIN standards).<br />
Follow the instructions provided by<br />
the manufacturer of the vehicle and/or<br />
the tow hitch.<br />
For the electric connections use the<br />
proper trailer light control unit.<br />
GETTING THE BEST OUT OF YOUR VEHICLE<br />
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