General Safety Infomation
! 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.
The breakaway lanyard must be connected to the tow vehicle, and
NOT to any part of the hitch.
Before towing the 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.
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MATCHING TRAILER AND HITCH
! DANGER
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.
Be sure your hitch and tow vehicle are rated for the Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer.
WORN TIRES, LOOSE WHEELS AND LUG NUTS
Just as with your tow vehicle, the trailer tires and wheels are important safety
items. Therefore, it is essential to inspect the 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 dealer service
center for diagnosis. Uneven tread wear can be caused by tire imbalance, axle
misalignment or incorrect inflation.
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. Remember, the proper tire pressure is
listed on the Certification / 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.