11
Heavy Haul Trailers
2.3
Major Hazards
Loss of control of the trailer or trailer/tow vehicle combination can result in death or serious injury.
The most common causes for loss of control of the trailer are:
•
Improperly sizing the trailer for the tow vehicle, or vice versa.
•
Excessive Speed: Driving too fast for the conditions.
•
Failure to adjust driving behavior when towing a trailer.
•
Overloading and/or improper weight distribution.
•
Improper or mis-coupling of the trailer to the hitch.
•
Improper braking and steering under sway conditions.
•
Not maintaining proper tire pressure.
•
Not keeping lug nuts tight.
2.3.1
Improper Sizing of Trailer to Tractor
Trailers that weigh too much for the tractor can cause stability problems, which can lead to death or
serious injury. Furthermore, the additional strain put on the engine and drive train may lead to serious
tow vehicle maintenance problems. For these reasons the maximum towing capacity of your tractor
should not be exceeded. The towing capacity of your tractor, in terms of maximum Gross Trailer
Weight (GTW) and maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) can be found in the tractor’s
Owner’s Manual.
DANGER! Use of a tractor with a towing capacity less than the Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating of the trailer can result in loss of control and may lead to death or serious injury.
Be sure tractor is rated for the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of your trailer.
2.3.2
Driving Too Fast for the Conditions
With ideal road conditions, the maximum recommended speed for safely towing a trailer is 60 mph
(100kph). If you drive too fast, the trailer is more likely to sway, thus increasing the possibility for loss
of control. Also your tires may overheat, thus increasing the possibility of a blowout.
WARNING! Driving too fast for conditions can result in loss of control and cause death or
serious injury. Decrease your speed when going downhill or as road, weather, and
lighting conditions deteriorate.
Summary of Contents for H550 Series
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