Nissan 2011 Benutzerhandbuch

 

2011 NISSAN Towing Guide 

 

 

18

If possible, before you actually hit the open road, practice towing in a large uncrowded area 

such as a stadium or shopping center parking lot. Become especially familiar with backing up 

a trailer — the maneuver many people find most difficult. 

The combination of your tow vehicle and trailer obviously requires a greater distance to stop. 

A good rule of thumb to remember is that for each 10 mph of speed, allow yourself one tow 

vehicle and trailer length of distance between the front of your vehicle and the vehicle ahead.  

 

When braking, use firm but gradual pressure on the pedal rather than panic braking. 

Applying the brakes abruptly or with too much force can cause the trailer to skid or jackknife 

at its point of attachment with the vehicle. This, in turn, can throw the tow vehicle out of 

control. If equipped with an electric trailer brake controller, follow the recommended 

operational instructions. 

As mentioned in the introduction to this section, because of the added weight of the trailer, 

acceleration capability is reduced and you will require a longer distance to pass another 

vehicle. Be certain you have sufficient time and space to pass safely. Never attempt to pass 

on hills or when going around curves. 

Know your vehicle and trailer capabilities. Entering a sharp corner too quickly or abruptly can 

“crack the whip,” whereby the trailer can actually pull the tow vehicle off the road. Therefore, 

when approaching a relatively sharp corner, begin braking sooner than you would when not 

towing. Do your braking in a straight line prior to the corner, and turn smoothly into it. In 

addition, remember to make a wider turn than normal to ensure that the trailer safely clears the 

inside of the turn. 

When towing a 5th wheel or gooseneck trailer, do not make sharp turns while driving or 

backing as the trailer may contact the vehicle and cause damage to both the trailer and 

vehicle. A special extended 5th wheel pin box or sliding hitch may be required to provide 

additional trailer-to-truck clearance for tight maneuvering. 

Backing up with a trailer is a difficult maneuver

. 

Steer with one hand at the bottom of the 

steering wheel. To turn the trailer to the left, first move the steering wheel to the left. To turn