Coupling To The Tow Vehicle Safety chains: Chains permanently attached to the trailer such that if the coupler connection comes loose, the safety chains can keep the trailer attached to the tow vehicle. With properly rigged safety chains, it is possible to keep the tongue of the trailer from digging into the road pavement, even if the coupler-to-hitch connection comes apart. Trailer lighting (and braking) connector: A device that connects electrical power from the tow vehicle to the trailer. Electricity is used to turn on brake lights, running lights, and turn signals as required. In addition, if your trailer has a separate braking system, the electrical connector will also supply power to the trailer brakes from the tow vehicle. Breakaway switch: If the trailer becomes uncoupled from the tow vehicle, the breakaway switch lanyard, attached independently to the tow vehicle hitch, will pull a pin in the emergency electrical breakaway switch on the trailer. The breakaway switch is activated by a separate battery supply in the trailer such as to energize the trailer brakes independently of the towing vehicle. It is important to check the state of charge of the emergency breakaway battery before each trip. Simply pull the pin out of the switch by hand and then try to pull the trailer. If you feel a significant drag force the brakes are activated. Be sure to re-insert the pin in the breakaway switch. Also be sure to allow enough slack in the breakaway brake lanyard such that the switch will only activate (pin pulls out) if the coupler connection comes loose. Do Not Use Breakaway Switch as Parking Brake. Jack: A device on the trailer that is used to raise and lower the trailer tongue. ! WARNING An improperly coupled trailer can result in death or serious injury. Do not move the trailer until: �� The coupler is secured and locked to hitch; �� The safety chains are secured to the tow vehicle; and �� The trailer jack(s) are fully retracted. Do not tow the trailer on the road until: �� Tires and wheels are checked; �� The trailer brakes are checked; �� The breakaway lanyard is connected to the tow vehicle; �� The load is secured to the trailer; and �� The trailer lights are connected and checked. VARIOUS COUPLER DESIGNS Trailers are produced with a variety of coupler devices. One of the sections below will pertain to your trailer. 55
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