Subaru 2003 Legacy - Manual (Page 332)

8-34
B
All vehicles except OUTBACK wagon
SUBARU does not offer accessory trailer hitches. Consult with a pro-
fessional hitch supplier to assist you in choosing an appropriate hitch
for your vehicle. Be sure to follow all of the hitch manufacturer’s
instructions for installation and use.
Never use a hitch that mounts only to the rear bumper. The bumper is
not designed to handle that type of load.
Regularly check that the hitch mounting bolts and nuts are tight.
B
Connecting a trailer
n Trailer brakes
WARNING
D
Adequate size trailer brakes are required when the trailer and
its cargo exceed 1,000 lbs (453 kg) total weight.
D
Do not directly connect your trailer’s hydraulic brake system
to the hydraulic brake system in your vehicle. Direct connection
would cause the vehicle’s brake performance to deteriorate and
could lead to an accident.
If your trailer’s total weight (trailer weight plus its cargo weight)
exceeds 1,000 lbs (453 kg), the trailer is required to be equipped with
its own brake system. Electric brakes or surge brakes are recom-
mended, and must be installed properly. Check that your trailer’s
brakes conform with Federal, state/province and/or other applicable
regulations. Your SUBARU’s brake system is not designed to be
tapped into the trailer’s hydraulic brake system. Please ask your
SUBARU dealer and professional trailer supplier for more information
about the trailer’s brake system.
n Trailer safety chains
WARNING
Always use safety chains between your vehicle and the trailer.
Towing trailer without safety chains could create a traffic safety
hazard if the trailer separates from the hitch due to coupling dam-
age or hitch ball damage.