8
2.2.5 Proper Use Of Safety Chains
Safety chains are provided so that control of the
trailer can be maintained if your trailer comes loose
from the hitch.
^
WARNING
Improper rigging of the safety chains can
result in loss of control of the trailer and
tow vehicle, leading to death or serious
injury, if the trailer uncouples from the tow
vehicle.
Cross chains underneath hitch and coupler
with enough slack to permit turning and to
hold tongue up, if the trailer comes loose.
Fasten chains to frame of tow vehicle.
Do not fasten chains to any part of the
hitch unless the hitch has holes or loops
specifi cally for that purpose.
2.2.6 Proper Connection Of Breakaway Brake
If equipped with brakes, your trailer will be equipped
with a breakaway brake system that can apply the
brakes on your trailer if your trailer comes loose from
the hitch. You may have a separate set of instructions
for the breakaway brake if the trailer is so equipped. The
breakaway brake system, including battery, must be in
good condition and properly rigged to be effective.
^
WARNING
An ineffective or inoperative breakaway
brake system can result in a runaway
trailer, leading to death or serious injury if
the coupler or hitch fails.
Breakaway lanyard must be connected
to the tow vehicle, NOT to any part of the
hitch.
Before towing trailer, test the function
of the breakaway brake system. If the
breakaway brake system is not working,
do not tow the trailer. Have it serviced or
repaired.
2.2.7 Matching Trailer And Hitch
^
DANGER
Be sure hitch and tow vehicle are rated for
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
of your trailer.
Use of a hitch with a load rating less than
the load rating of the trailer can result in
loss of control and may lead to death or
serious injury.
Use of a tow vehicle with a towing capacity
less than the load rating of the trailer can
result in loss of control, and may lead to
death or serious injury.
2.2.8 Worn Tires, Loose Wheels And Lug Nuts
Inspect all trailer tires before each tow. If a tire has a
bald spot, bulge, cut, cracks, or is showing any cords,
replace the tire before towing.
If a tire has uneven tread wear, take the trailer
to a trailer service center for diagnosis. Uneven
tread wear can be caused by tire imbalance, axle
misalignment or incorrect infl ation.
Tires with too little tread will not provide adequate
frictional forces on wet roadways and can result in
loss of control, leading to death or serious injury.
Improper tire pressure causes increased tire wear
and may reduce trailer stability, which can result in
a tire blowout or possible loss of control. Therefore,
before each tow you must also check the tire
pressure.
The proper tire pressure is listed on the Certifi cation
/ VIN label, normally mounted on the front left side of
the trailer, and should be checked when tires are cold.
Allow 3 hours cool-down after driving as much as 1
mile at 40 mph before checking tire pressure.
Safety
Summary of Contents for Utility Trailer
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