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GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION
FAILURE TO ADJUST DRIVING BEHAVIOR WHEN TOWING A TRAILER
• 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.
• 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 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.
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 switch is connected to the tow vehicle;
• The load is secured to the trailer; and
• The trailer lights are connected and checked.