Preparing to tow, Hitches, Weight distributing hitch – Lincoln 2008 Mark LT User Manual

Page 208: Safety chains, Tires, wheels and loading

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Trailer frontal area considerations:
• Not to exceed towing vehicle frontal area without Class IV trailer

towing package

• Not to exceed 60 square feet (5.52 square meters) with Class IV

trailer towing package

Note: Do not exceed trailer weight of 5,000 lb (2268 kg) when towing
with bumper only.

Preparing to tow

Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is
properly attached to your vehicle. See your authorized dealer or a
reliable trailer dealer if you require assistance.

Hitches

Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle’s bumper or attach to the
axle. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10%–15% of the
total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.

Weight distributing hitch

When hooking up a trailer using a load equalizing hitch, always use the
following procedure:

1. Park the unloaded vehicle on a level surface. With the ignition on and
all doors closed, allow the vehicle to stand for several minutes so that it
can level.

2. Measure the height of a reference point on the front and rear bumpers
at the center of the vehicle.

3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and adjust the hitch equalizers so that
the front bumper height is within

1

2

” (13 mm) of the reference point.

After proper adjustment, the rear bumper should be no higher than in
Step 2.

Note: Adjusting a weight distributing hitch so the rear bumper of the
vehicle is higher than it was unloaded will defeat the function of the
weight distributing hitch and may cause unpredictable handling.

Safety chains

Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers
of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.

If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency
gives to you.

2008 Mark LT (mlt)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA
(fus)

Tires, Wheels and Loading

208

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