General Safety Infomation
Anticipate the trailer “swaying.” Swaying can be caused by excessive steering,
wind gusts, roadway edges, or by the trailer reaction to the pressure wave
created by passing trucks and busses.
When encountering trailer sway take your foot off the accelerator, and steer as
little as possible in order to stay on the road. Use small “trim-like” steering
adjustments. Do not attempt to steer out of the sway; you’ll only make it worse.
Also do not apply the tow vehicle brakes to correct trailer swaying. On the
other hand, application of the trailer brakes alone will tend to straighten out the
combination, especially when going downhill.
Check rearview mirrors frequently to observe the trailer and traffic.
Use lower gear when driving down steep or long grades. Use the engine and
transmission as a brake. Do not ride the brakes, as they can overheat and
become ineffective.
Be aware of your trailer height, especially when approaching bridges, roofed
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areas and around trees.
TRAILER NOT PROPERLY COUPLED TO THE HITCH
It is critical that the trailer be securely coupled to the hitch, and that the safety
chains and emergency breakaway brake lanyard are correctly attached.
Uncoupling may result in death or serious injury to you and to others.
! WARNING
Proper selection and condition of the coupler and hitch are
essential to safely towing your trailer. A loss of coupling may
result in death or serious injury.
Be sure the hitch load rating is equal to or greater than the load
rating of the coupler.
Be sure the hitch size matches the coupler size.
Observe the hitch for wear, corrosion and cracks before
coupling. Replace worn, corroded or cracked hitch components
before coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle.
Be sure the hitch components are tight before coupling the
trailer to the tow vehicle.