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Horse Trailer Owner`s Manual

1. a Coupling To Tow Vehicle 10 Tighten setscrews A to the torque specified by the manufacturer 11 Tighten jam nuts to the torque specified by the manufacturer 12 Check tightness after 50 miles of towing Maximum Extension 13 Couple the trailer to the tow vehicle and verify that the trailer is level front to rear Adjust if necessary 14 Unload trailer See Loading And Unloading 35 Loading And Unloading 5 Loading And Unloading Improper trailer loading causes many accidents and deaths To safely load a trailer you must consider Overall load weight Load weight distribution Proper tongue weight Securing the load properly To determine that you have loaded the trailer within its rating you must consider the distribution of weight as well as the total weight of the trailer and its contents The trailer axles carry most of the total weight of the trailer and its contents Gross Vehicle Weight or GVW The remainder of the total weight is carried by the tow vehicle hitch It is essential for safe towing that the trailer tongue and tow vehicle hitch carry the proper amount of the loaded trailer weight otherwise the trailer can develop an undesirable sway at towing speeds or the rear of the towing vehicle can be overloaded Read the Tongue Weight information in Section 4 The load distribution must be such that no component part of the trailer is loaded beyond its rating
2. AA DANGER DANGER Indicates a hazardous situation which if not avoided WILL result in death or serious injury WARNING Indicates a hazardous situation which if not avoided could result in death or serious injury CAUTION Indicates a hazardous situation which if not avoided could result in minor or moderate injury NOTICE NOTICE Indicates a situation that could result in damage to the equipment or other property 2 2 Major Hazards Loss of control of the trailer or trailer tow vehicle combination can result in death or serious injury The most common causes for loss of control of the trailer are e Improper sizing the trailer for the tow vehicle or vice versa e Excessive Speed Driving too fast for the conditions e Improper braking and steering under sway conditions e Overloading and or improper weight distribution e Not keeping lug nuts tight e Failure to adjust driving behavior when towing a trailer e Not maintaining proper tire pressure e Improper or mis coupling of the trailer to the hitch 2 2 1 Improper Sizing Of Trailer To Tow Vehicle Trailers that weigh too much for the tow vehicle can cause stability problems which can lead to death or serious injury The additional strain put on the engine and drive train may lead to serious tow vehicle maintenance problems Do not exceed the maximum towing capacity of your tow vehicle The towing capacity of your tow vehicle i
3. Extreme cold weather can degrade battery performance and cause brakes to not operate properly Check battery charge level before towing Do not tow trailer if the battery requires recharging A discharged brake battery will not activate the brakes if the trailer uncouples from the tow vehicle The battery must be fully charged before towing trailer To test the breakaway brake battery remove the pullpin from the switch and attempt to pull the trailer forward You should feel the trailer resisting being towed but the wheels will not necessarily be locked If the brakes do not function do not tow the trailer until brakes or battery are repaired Immediately replace the pullpin The breakaway brake battery discharges rapidly when the pullpin is removed An ineffective breakaway brake system can result in a runaway trailer leading to death or serious injury if the receiver fails Test the function of the breakaway brake system before towing trailer Do not tow trailer if breakaway brake system is not working have it serviced or repaired Connect breakaway lanyard to the tow vehicle NOT to the safety chain ball hitch or support Do not tow the trailer with the breakaway brake system ON because the brakes will overheat which can result in permanent brake failure Coupling To Tow Vehicle 4 3 2 Trailer With King Pin A king pin connects to a fifth wheel that is installed in Failure to replace the pull
4. amp inflation when used as a dual d d Severe snow Light conditions truck tire Maximum load amp inflation when used as a single Load inflation limits Tires for light trucks have other markings besides those found on the sidewalls of passenger tires LT The LT indicates the tire is for light trucks or trailers Tire Safety ST An ST is an indication the tire is for trailer use only Max Load Dual kg Ibs at kPa psi Cold This information indicates the maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a dual that is when four tires are put on each rear axle a total of six or more tires on the vehicle Max Load Single kg Ibs at kPa psi Cold This information indicates the maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a single Load Range This information identifies the tire s load carrying capabilities and its inflation limits 3 5 10 4 Tire Safety Tips Preventing Tire Damage e Slow down if you have to go over a pothole or other object in the road e Do not run over curbs or other foreign objects in the roadway and try not to strike the curb when parking Tire Safety Checklist e Check tire pressure regularly at least once a month including the spare e Inspect tires for uneven wear patterns on the tread cracks foreign objects or other signs of wear or trauma e Remove bits of glass and foreign objects wedged in the tread e Make sure your t
5. Worn or broken suspension parts can jury g cause loss of control and injury may result Inspect for and repair all damaged parts at least once a year Have trailer professionally inspected annually and after any impact 9 2 1 2 Welds To perform many of the inspection and maintenance All welds can crack or fail when subjected to heavy activities you must jack up the trailer loads or movement of cargo that was not properly secured Any time that you know or suspect that When jacking and using jack stands place them so the trailer has been subjected to heavy loads or as to clear wiring brake lines and suspension parts movement of cargo immediately inspect the welds springs torsion bars etc Place jacks and jack and fasteners for damage To prevent severe damage stands under the outer frame rail to which the axles to your trailer inspect all of the welds for cracks are attached or failure at least once a year If a weld failure is detected contact your dealer Never go under trailer unless it is on firm and level ground and resting on properly placed and secured jack stands Do not attempt to repair a cracked or broken weld unless you have the skills and equipment to make the repair Improper weld repair will lead to early failure of the trailer structure and serious injury or death Crushing hazard The tow vehicle and trailer could be inadvertently moved while a person is under the trailer See y
6. size you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheel diameter Next number This two or three digit number is the tire s load index It is a measurement of how much weight each tire can support You may find this information in your owner s manual If not contact a local tire dealer Note You may not find this information on all tires because it is not required by law M S The M S or M S indicates that the tire has some mud and snow capability Most radial tires have these markings hence they have some mud and snow capability Speed Rating The speed rating denotes the speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for extended periods of time Note You may not find this information on all tires because it is not required by law U S DOT Tire Identification Number This begins with the letters DOT and indicates that the tire meets all federal standards The next two numbers or letters are the plant code where it was manufactured and the last four numbers represent the week and year the tire was built For example the numbers 3197 means the 31st week of 1997 The other numbers are marketing codes used at the manufacturer s discretion This information is used to contact consumers if a tire defect requires a recall Tire Ply Composition and Materials Used The number of plies indicates the number of layers of rubber coated fabric in the tire In general the greater the number of pli
7. AA AASA NANANA 26 4 3 1 1 Before Coupling Trailer To Tow Vehicle cccsseseseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeneeeeees 27 4 3 1 2 Prepare Receiver And Ball ccscsseeeeeeeeseseeeeeeeeeseeeseeeeeeeeeessesneeeeeeeeeesenneneees 27 4 3 1 3 Couple Trailer To Tow Vehicle csseeecceeseseeeeeeeeesenneeeeeeeeeeeeesseeeeeeeeeensseeneees 27 4 3 1 4 Connect Safety Chains NR 28 4 3 1 5 Connect Eer TR 28 4 3 1 6 Attach Breakaway Brake Lanyard ccccccsssseeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeneeeeeeeeseeneeneees 28 4 3 1 7 Test Electric EN 29 4 3 1 8 Test Electric Breakaway Brakes ccccssssseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseseeneeeeeeenseeneeeaees 29 4 3 1 9 Uncouple Trailer With Ball ReCeiver eccceseesseeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeenseeeneeeees 30 4 3 2 Trailer With King PUN egentgegergeggereegereegkeegsateg eege EEN ege dn wtavan 30 4 3 2 1 Before Coupling Trailer To Tow Vehicle cccccsssseeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeees 30 4 3 2 2 Prepare King Pin And Fifth Wheel ccccsssseeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeees 31 4 3 2 3 Couple Trailer To Tow Vehicle ecccccccsesseeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeenseennees 31 4 3 2 4 Connect E er TN ER 4 3 2 5 Attach Breakaway Brake Lanyard cccccsssseeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeseeneeeeeeeeseeeeeeeees 32 4 3 2 6 Test Electric ER 32 4 3 2 7 Test Electric Breakaway Brakes ccccssssseeeeeeeseeeesneeeeeeeeeeeseeeee
8. Distribute the load front to rear to provide proper tongue weight see chart A flowable load must be evenly distributed throughout the body 4 4 1 Checking Tongue Weight To check the tongue weight the tow vehicle and trailer must be on level ground as they will be when the trailer is being towed Take the trailer to a truck stop or grain elevator where there is a certified scale Place the tow vehicle only onto the scale and get the weight This weight must be less than your tow vehicle s GVWR Pull the trailer onto the scale and uncouple it from the tow vehicle leaving just the trailer on the scale Get a ticket which lists the total trailer weight Re connect the trailer to your tow vehicle and the drive the tow vehicle wheels off the scale just leaving the trailer axles on the scale Get a ticket which lists the trailer s axle weight Simply subtract the axle weight from the total weight to determine the hitch weight While you are at the scale you should weigh the entire combination vehicle This result should be less than the Gross Combined Weight Rating GCWR for your towing vehicle Some scales allow you to get individual axle weights also If this is possible get the tow vehicles front and rear axle weights to make sure they are in the same proportion as the tow vehicle alone and that the rear axle is not overloaded 4 5 Adjust Gooseneck Height The height of the receiver or king pin on t
9. Safety Administration NHTSA in addition to notifying us Tire Safety 3 3 Steps For Determining Correct Load Limit Tow Vehicle 1 Locate the statement The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX lbs on your vehicle s placard Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers who will be riding in your vehicle Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage capacity For example if the XXX amount equals 1400 Ibs and there will be five 150 lb passengers in your vehicle the amount of available cargo and luggage capacity is 650 Ibs 1400 750 5 x 150 650 Ibs Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage capacity calculated in previous step If your vehicle will be towing a trailer load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle Consult the tow vehicle s manual to determine how this weight transfer reduces the available cargo and luggage capacity of your vehicle 3 4 Glossary Of Tire Terminology Accessory weight The combined weight in excess of those standard items which may be replaced of automatic transmission power steering power brakes power windows power seats radio and heater to the extent that these items are available as factory ins
10. You must consider the rating of the tires wheels and axles For tandem and triple axle trailers you must make sure that the front to rear load distribution does not result in overloading any axle Towing stability also depends on keeping the center of gravity as low as possible Load heavy items on the floor and over the axles When loading additional items be sure to maintain even side to side weight distribution and proper tongue weight The total weight of the trailer and its contents must never exceed the total weight rating of the trailer Gross Vehicle Weight Rating or GVWR Do not transport people containers of hazardous substances or flammable liquids The exception is fuel in the tank of vehicles or equipment being hauled Do not transport flammable explosive poisonous or other dangerous materials on your trailer The exception is fuel in the tank of equipment being hauled 36 Do not transport people in your trailer Besides putting their lives at risk the transport of people on a trailer is illegal AA DANGER You can die or be brain damaged by Carbon Monoxide Do not operate a generator portable grills portable heaters portable lanterns or portable stoves inside the trailer Do not sleep in a trailer not equipped with living quarters A trailer not designed with living quarters must only be used for transportation of its intended cargo 5 1 Loading Trailer 5 1 1 Preparing Trailer
11. by an auxiliary charger or by using an on board battery maintainer charger if equipped If the trailer is used daily it is recommended that the battery charger be plugged in after each days use The battery may be located in a tongue mounted battery box or a side mounted box The accessory battery must be kept in a charged condition during storage The battery could freeze and break if it becomes discharged 4l Inspection Service And Maintenance 9 Inspection Service And Maintenance 9 1 Inspection Service amp Maintenance Summary Charts You must inspect maintain and service your trailer regularly to insure safe and reliable operation If you cannot or are unsure how to perform the items listed here have your dealer do them Note In addition to this manual also check the relevant component manufacturer s manual Inspection And Service Before Each Tow Item CC Inspection Service Manual Section Reference Breakaway Brakes Electric Check operation Section 4 Hydraulic Check operation Section 4 Breakaway Battery Fully charged connections clean Section 4 and 9 Brakes Electric Check operation Section 4 and 9 Hydraulic Check operation Check reservoir level Shoes And Drums Adjust Safety Chains And Hooks Check for wear damage Receiver And Hitch Ball Check for cracks pits and flats Section 4 and 9 Replace w ball and receiver having trailer GVW Rating Grease Section 4 and 9 Check locking devic
12. pressures than the corresponding standard tire Groove The space between two adjacent tread ribs Gross Axle Weight Rating The maximum weight that any axle can support as published on the Certification VIN label on the front left side of the trailer Actual weight determined by weighing each axle on a public scale with the trailer attached to the towing vehicle Gross Vehicle Weight Rating The maximum weight of the fully loaded trailer as published on the Certification VIN label Actual weight determined by weighing trailer on a public scale without being attached to the towing vehicle Hitch Weight The downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer coupler Innerliner The layer s forming the inside surface of a tubeless tire that contains the inflating medium within the tire Innerliner separation The parting of the innerliner from cord material in the carcass Intended outboard sidewall The sidewall that contains a white wall bears white lettering or bears manufacturer brand and or model name molding Tire Safety that is higher or deeper than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire or the outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle Light truck LT tire A tire designated by its manufacturer as primarily intended for use on lightweight trucks or multipurpose passenger vehicles May be used on trailer
13. proper air pressure may be found on the Certification VIN label and or on the Tire Placard This value should never exceed the maximum cold inflation pressure stamped on the tire 3 2 1 Trailers 10 000 Pounds GVWR Or Less The weight of cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX Ibs SIZE COLD TIRE PRESSURE 621KPA 90PSI REAR spare 1 Locate the statement The weight of cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX Ibs on your vehicle s placard This figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity The trailer s placard refers to the Tire Information Placard attached adjacent to or near the trailer s VIN Certification label at the left front of the trailer 3 2 2 Trailers Over 10 000 Pounds GVWR Note These trailers are not required to have a tire information placard on the trailer and may not have One installed 1 Determine the empty weight of your trailer by weighing the trailer using a public scale or other means 2 Locate the GVWR Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of the trailer on your trailer s VIN Certification label 3 Subtract the empty weight of your trailer from the GVWR stated on the VIN label That weight is the maximum available cargo capacity of the trailer and may not be safely exceeded
14. protruding features such as handles loose or broken parts of the trailer etc 5 1 2 Loading A Horse Trailer The trailering of horses introduces many variables that are not present in trailering of non living cargo Horses are prone to take flight when they feel threatened or pain In the confines of a trailer the flight response can cause serious injury or death to a human handler Even experienced and docile horses can be frightened Horses must be slowly acclimated to trailering Be sure the horse s first trips are short trips so you can gauge its reaction Some will take to the experience easily but others will strongly protest You must act according to your horse s demeanor Handling a horse that is not trailer acclimated may result in injury or death or damage to your trailer Horses must have a halter 1 Couple the trailer to the tow vehicle 37 Trailer must be coupled to tow vehicle before loading trailer If the trailer is fitted with a drop ramp carefully lower it to the ground If your trailer is fitted with swinging loading doors open them fully and secure them against the trailer Open all stall dividers and latch them in their OPEN against the wall position If the trailer has living quarters close and lock the door between the living quarters and horse area If feed doors are opened for ventilation the safety bars or netting that covers the feed door opening must be closed or in
15. trailer Contact your dealer for assistance Retract the jack to its fully retraced position Drop leg jacks may be spring loaded If so they will rapidly return to the raise position when released Keep clear when releasing drop legs 7 Fully retract jack drop leg if equipped 8 Raise tow vehicle tailgate if equipped 4 3 1 4 Connect SAFETY CHAINS 1 Visually inspect the safety chains and hooks for wear or damage Replace worn or damaged safety chains and hooks before towing Rig the safety chains so that they attach to the safety chain receivers on the tow vehicle If you are not certain of the hitch provisions for receiving safety chains contact the hitch manufacturer or installer Do NOT attach the safety chains to the gooseneck ball or its support Rig the safety chains so they have sufficient slack to permit turning but not too much slack the safety chains must keep the gooseneck on the tow vehicle bed if the trailer uncouples 28 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 Fasten chains to safety chain receivers on hitch not to ball Have sufficient slack to permit turning and to keep gooseneck on bed of tow vehicle if the trailer comes loose 4 3 1 5 Connect Electrical Cable Connect the trailer lights to the tow vehicle s elect
16. when the vehicle has been parked overnight Wheel and tire manufacturers recommend adjusting the air pressure to the trailer manufacturer s recommended cold inflation pressure in pounds per square inch PS1 stated on the vehicle s Federal Certification Label or Tire Placard when the trailer is loaded to its gross vehicle weight rating GVWR If the tires are inflated to less than the recommended inflation level or the GVWR of the trailer is exceeded the load carrying capacity of the tire could be dramatically affected If the tires are inflated more than the recommended inflation level handling characteristics of the tow vehicle trailer combination could be affected Refer to the owner s manual or talk to your dealer or vehicle manufacturer if you have any questions regarding proper inflation practices Tires can lose air over a period of time In fact tires can lose 1 to 3 PSI per month This is because molecules of air under pressure weave their way from the inside of the tire through the rubber to the outside A drop in tire pressure could cause the tire to become overloaded leading to excessive heat build up If a trailer tire is under inflated even for a short period of time the tire could suffer internal damage High speed towing in hot conditions degrades trailer tires significantly As heat builds up during driving the tire s internal structure starts to breakdown compromising the strength of the tire It is recommende
17. with a linchpin lock or similar device so that the catch and door cannot open while the trailer is being towed If your trailer is fitted with feed doors close and lock them Always keep one hand in contact with the feed door while closing Pull on the feed door handle to verify the door is properly latched Check the horses after 5 to 10 miles or 10 minutes of towing and then at least once per hour thereafter Open a feed door or other access and look for signs of stress cuts or injury On long trips it is recommended that horses be removed from the trailer every 6 10 hours for exercise food and watering Horses may kick when door is opened Stay clear when opening door 38 Pre Tow Checklist 6 Pre Tow Checklist 6 1 Pre Tow Checklist Before towing double check all of these items e Tires wheels and lug nuts See Breaking In A New Trailer section of this manual Tire Pressure Inflate tires on trailer and tow vehicle to the pressure stated on the Certification VIN label Receiver secured and locked See Coupling To Tow Vehicle section of this manual Safety chains properly rigged to tow vehicle not to hitch or ball See Coupling To Tow Vehicle section of this manual e Test Tail Stop and Turn Lights e Test trailer brakes Safety breakaway lanyard fastened to tow vehicle not to safety chains See Coupling To Tow Vehicle section of this manual Cargo properly loaded ba
18. with stall dividers and tie rings to secure the horse and has a II rubber floor mat to keep shoed horses from slipping on the metal underfloor Restraining a horse without using a combination of a tie strap and stall dividers may result in serious injury or death to the horse Before loading your horse inspect the interior of the horse trailer to insure that no hazards are present Read Loading And Unloading for specific instructions regarding trailering of horses Handling a horse that is not trailer acclimated may result in injury or death or damage to your trailer Do not haul an unbroken horse in this trailer Horses must have a halter Failure to secure a horse using a tie strap may result in serious injury or death to persons and or the horse The interior space of a trailer may contain hazards that result in serious injury or death to a trailered horse Inspect the interior of the trailer before loading a horse Adjust or repair all loose and protruding features such as handles loose or broken parts of the trailer etc Lock all stall dividers before towing trailer All saddles tack and equipment as well as horse s must be prevented from being thrown about before towing trailer Safety Hauling a horse in a livestock trailer may result in its serious injury or death Do not carry a horse in a livestock trailer Use a trailer designed to carry horses 2 2 14 Inoperable Brakes Or Ligh
19. 2 Finding Your Vehicle s Recommended Tire Pressure And Load Limits 21 3 5 3 Understanding Tire Pressure And Load Limits cccssseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees 21 3 5 4 Safety First Basic Tire Maintenance mmzeeeeeeeeuunuaananusuuuunuaaan0nansssssnn00m000nn 21 3 5 5 Steps For Maintaining Proper Tire PreSSure ccccsssssseeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeees 21 35 0 TG ama AANI 22 3 5 7 Mire TOCA sob cise AAP PAA AA AMA 22 3 5 8 Tire Balance And Wheel Alignment ccccssseeeeeeeeeeesseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeneeeeeeesseeeeneeeees 22 3 5 9 TIIEREDAN namana AABANG KAANAK AA ANAN GAAN 22 3 5 10 Tire Fundamen IBU mamam ANGARA KABA adanan 22 3 5 10 1 Information on Passenger Vehicle Tires ccssssssseecceeeseeseeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeees 22 3 5 10 2 UTQGS Information NAKAKA nnen 23 3 5 10 3 Additional Information On Light Truck Tires 1 0 anaanusanuuawnnansananananauaasanasanana 24 3 5 10 4 Tire Safety TIPS aa IKAN BAK A NA KAKA 24 Contents 4 Coupling To Tow Vehicle ssceceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeanenenees 25 4 1 Tow Vehicle And FRIGGIN ma 25 4 1 1 Trailer Information EE 25 4 1 2 El 25 4 2 Coupling And Uncoupling The Trailer 2 eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeess 25 4 3 Couple Trailer To Tow Vehicle 11 7222222 mmmm0ameememeeemmeemmeemmeeenaee2000no 26 4 3 1 Trailer With Ball RECCIV GE ius nanam NAGA
20. For Loading Open windows and vents to provide ventilation Open feed doors for ventilation only if equipped with safety bars or netting that covers the feed door opening which must be closed Consider the weather and transport conditions On warm sunny days maximum ventilation is required Do not carry a horse without providing ventilation even in coldest weather Ventilation is critical for the well being of your horses Know your horses and adjust ventilation for your horses comfort Be sure pivoting window latches are in a flush position so they do not present a protrusion that can injure your horse Tighten any loose or protruding screws in the walls Remove or secure loose objects i e butt bars saddles tack and equipment so that items will not move during towing Inspect for cracks at the welds on the divider hinges Loading And Unloading and the welds on the tie rings If you are able to open any cracks in or near these welds by lifting the dividers or by twisting the tie rings have the weld repaired before loading your horses The interior space of a trailer may contain hazards that result in serious injury or death to a horse All saddles tack and equipment as well as horse s must be prevented from being thrown about before towing trailer Inspect interior of trailer before loading a horse Latch all stall dividers in closed position before towing trailer Adjust or repair all loose and
21. Horse Trailer Owner s Manual This Owners s Manual contains safety information and instructions for your trailer You must read this manual before loading or towing your trailer You must follow all safety precautions and instructions 4 Star Trailers Inc P O Box 75395 Oklahoma City OK 73127 Gooseneck Trailers April 2011 Contents LE releli CUNO sce Eege 5 PE y E EA E E A E E E A E E E 6 2 1 Safety Alert Symbols And Signal Words n unnssnnnsnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn 6 2 2 EN Zell 74 LE 6 2 2 1 Improper Sizing Of Trailer To Tow Vehicle cccccsssseeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeneeeeeeeees 6 2 2 2 Driving Too FABIAN AA AASA 6 2 2 3 Adjust Driving When Towing Trailer csssseecceeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeseesneseeeeeeeeeees 7 2 2 4 Trailer Not Properly Coupled To Hitch csseeccceeeeseseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeees 7 2 2 5 Proper Use OF Safety CHAINS wiivisiceiisacissaustitise vasiincennduduncaneseenendududedaxeubudencianensevnddeuencancnsn 8 2 2 6 Proper Connection Of Breakaway Brake 700000mmmmemeeessuuunanauuusaunanaunanasasassssnn 8 2 2 7 Matching Trailer And Hitch sscsiiiccnuncvinssestnnnncunventinsnnsncadenninsiswunicdcrsunasanacnivndesannnnducantions 8 2 2 8 Worn Tires Loose Wheels And Lug Nuts ccccccesseseeeeeeeeeseeeeeeneeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeees 8 2 2 9 Improper LODGING svicsisicciiecetescciinatialneinsindateuustuetiin
22. acity jack stands Check wheels for side to side looseness If the wheels are loose or spin with a wobble the bearings must be serviced or replaced Never go under trailer unless it is on firm and level ground and resting on properly placed and secured jack stands If your axle s are equipped with a grease zerk on the ends of the axle s the bearings must be greased every 6 months or 6 000 miles to ensure reliable and safe operation of your trailer 1 Remove the rubber plug from the axle end 2 Place grease gun on zerk 3 Pump grease until new grease begins to appear Use a different color grease each time so you will know when the new grease begins to appear 4 Install rubber plug and cap Repeat for remaining wheel bearings If your trailer axle s are not equipped with grease zerks refer to the axle manufacturer s manual for service and maintenance information 9 2 9 Tires Before each tow check the tire pressure to make sure it is at the level indicated on the tire sidewall or VIN label Tire pressure must be checked while the tire is cold Do not check tire pressure immediately after towing the trailer Allow at least three hours for the Inspection Service And Maintenance tires to cool if the trailer has been towed for as much as one mile Tires can lose air over a period of time Replace the tire before towing the trailer if the tire treads have less than 2 32 inch depth or the telltale bands ar
23. ailer 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 An ineffective or inoperative breakaway brake system can result in a runaway trailer leading to death or serious injury if the receiver 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 A 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 caus
24. ailer with the breakaway brake system ON because the brakes will overheat which can result in permanent brake failure 33 4 3 2 8 Uncouple Trailer With King Pin Follow these steps to uncouple trailer from the tow vehicle 1 Park the trailer on a firm level surface and block trailer tires Lower tow vehicle tailgate if equipped Disconnect electrical connector Disconnect breakaway brake switch lanyard Before extending jack make certain the ground surface below the jack pad will support the tongue load Gd Drop leg jacks may be spring loaded If so they will rapidly return to the raise position when released Keep clear when releasing drop legs 6 Lower jack drop leg if equipped 7 Rotate jack handle to extend the jack to transfer some of the weight of the trailer to the jack 8 Open fifth wheel lock by pulling release handle 9 Slowly drive tow vehicle forward 10 Raise tow vehicle tail gate if equipped 4 4 Tongue Weight It is critical to have a portion of the trailer load carried by the tow vehicle That is the trailer gooseneck must exert a downward force on the hitch This is necessary for two reasons First the proper amount of tongue weight is necessary for the tow vehicle to be able to maintain control of the tow vehicle trailer system If for example the tongue exerts an upward pull on the hitch instead of pushing down on it because the trailer is overloaded behind its axle s t
25. and receivers are marked with their size and rating Receiver to hitch mismatch can result in uncoupling leading to death or serious injury Be sure the LOAD RATING of the hitch ball is equal or greater than the load rating of the receiver Be sure the SIZE of the hitch ball matches the size of the receiver 2 Wipe the ball clean and inspect it visually and by feel for flat spots cracks and pits A worn cracked or corroded hitch ball can fail while towing and may result in death or serious injury Before coupling trailer inspect the hitch ball for wear corrosion and cracks Replace worn or damaged hitch ball 3 Rock the ball to make sure it is tight to the hitch and visually check that the hitch ball is solid against the hitch frame 4 Wipe the inside and outside of the receiver clean and inspect it visually for cracks and deformations feel the inside of the receiver for worn spots and pits 5 Be sure the receiver is tight to the gooseneck of the trailer All receiver fasteners must be visibly solid against the trailer frame 27 A loose gooseneck ball can result in uncoupling leading to death or serious injury Make sure the gooseneck ball is tight to the hitch before coupling the trailer 6 Raise the bottom surface of the receiver to be above the top of the gooseneck ball 4 3 1 2 Prepare Receiver And Ball 1 Lubricate ball and inside of receiver with a thin layer of automotive be
26. and wheels are checked Breakaway switch is connected to tow vehicle The trailer lights are connected and checked Load is secured to trailer 4 3 Couple Trailer To Tow Vehicle The trailer may be equipped with a ball receiver fifth wheel or king pin See the appropriate section for the coupler on your trailer 4 3 1 Trailer With Ball Receiver A ball receiver connects to a ball that is installed in the bed of the tow vehicle We have utilized a ball receiver that is suitable for the size and weight of the trailer The load rating of the receiver and the necessary ball size are listed on the gooseneck You must provide a ball and support for your tow vehicle that meets or exceeds the GVWR of the trailer The ball size must be the same as the receiver size If the hitch ball is too small too large is underrated is loose or is worn the trailer can come loose from the tow vehicle and may cause death or serious injury Coupling To Tow Vehicle The tow vehicle ball and support must have a rated towing capacity equal to or greater than the trailer gross vehicle weight rating GVWR It is essential that the ball be the same size as the receiver The ball size and load rating capacity are marked on the ball hitch capacity is marked on the hitch 4 3 1 1 Before Coupling Trailer To Tow Vehicle 1 Be sure the size and rating of ball match the size and rating of the receiver Hitch balls
27. ar the breakaway switch Most trailers are setup to charge the battery from the tow vehicle If the electrical system on your tow vehicle does not provide power to the battery you must periodically charge the battery with a commercial battery charger to keep the battery charged Extreme cold weather can degrade battery performance and cause brakes to not operate properly Check battery charge level before towing Do not tow trailer if the battery requires recharging A discharged brake battery will not activate the brakes if the trailer uncouples from the tow vehicle The battery must be fully charged before towing trailer To test the breakaway brake battery remove the pullpin from the switch and attempt to pull the trailer forward You should feel the trailer resisting being towed but the wheels will not necessarily be locked If the brakes do not function do not tow the trailer until brakes or battery are repaired Immediately replace the pullpin The breakaway brake battery discharges rapidly when the pullpin is removed An ineffective breakaway brake system can result in a runaway trailer leading to death or serious injury if the king pin fails Test the function of the breakaway brake system before towing trailer Do not tow trailer if breakaway brake system is not working have it serviced or repaired Connect breakaway lanyard to the tow vehicle NOT to the fifth wheel or its support Do not tow the tr
28. aring grease 2 Lower tow vehicle tailgate if equipped 3 Remove safety latch pin and open receiver locking mechanism In the open position receiver is able to drop fully onto hitch ball See the receiver instructions for details of placing the receiver in the open position 4 Slowly back up tow vehicle so that hitch ball is aligned under receiver No one must be under the trailer or receiver during coupling Death or serious injury can occur if the trailer drops 4 3 1 3 Couple Trailer To Tow Vehicle 1 Lower the trailer tongue until the receiver fully engages the ball If the receiver does not line up with the hitch ball adjust the position of the tow vehicle 2 Close latch and engage the receiver locking mechanism In the engaged position the locking mechanism securely holds the receiver to the hitch ball 3 Insert the safety lock pin through the hole in the locking mechanism 4 Be sure the receiver is all the way on the hitch ball and the locking mechanism is engaged A properly engaged locking mechanism will allow the receiver to raise the rear of the tow vehicle Using the trailer jack test to see that you can raise the rear of the tow vehicle by 1 inch after the receiver is locked to the hitch Coupling To Tow Vehicle NOTICE The jack can be damaged by overloading Do not use jack to raise the tow vehicle more than 1 inch If the receiver cannot be secured to the ball do not tow the
29. ath or serious injury Do not tow the trailer until all of the visual checks are met 5 If the king pin cannot be secured to the fifth wheel do not tow the trailer Contact your dealer for assistance 6 Retract the jack to its fully retraced position Drop leg jacks may be spring loaded If so they will rapidly return to the raise position when released Keep clear when releasing drop legs 7 Fully retract jack drop leg if equipped 8 Raise tow vehicle tailgate if equipped 4 3 2 4 Connect Electrical Cable i Connect the trailer lights to the tow vehicle s electrical system using trailer electrical cable 2 Check all lights for proper operation Repair or replace non working lights before towing trailer 3 Check electric brakes for proper operation using brake controller mounted in the cab Improper electrical connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer will result in inoperable lights and electric brakes and can lead to collision Before each tow e Check that the electric brakes work by operating the brake controller inside the tow vehicle e Check that all lights and turn signals work 32 4 3 2 5 Attach Breakaway Brake Lanyard If the king pin or fifth wheel fails a properly connected and working breakaway brake system will apply the trailer brakes Connect the lanyard to the tow vehicle Do not connect the lanyard to king pin or its support This would keep the
30. ators that let you know when it is time to replace your tires These indicators are raised sections spaced intermittently in the bottom of the tread grooves When they appear even with the outside of the tread it is time to replace your tires Another method for checking tread depth is to place a penny in the tread with Lincoln s head upside down and facing you If you can see the top of Lincoln s head you are ready for new tires 3 5 8 Tire Balance And Wheel Alignment To avoid vibration or shaking of the vehicle when a tire rotates the tire must be properly balanced This balance is achieved by positioning weights on the wheel to counterbalance heavy spots on the wheel and tire assembly A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels so that they are positioned 22 correctly relative to the vehicle s frame This adjustment maximizes the life of your tires These adjustments require special equipment and should be performed by a qualified technician 3 5 9 Tire Repair The proper repair of a punctured tire requires a plug for the hole and a patch for the area inside the tire that surrounds the puncture hole Punctures through the tread can be repaired if they are not too large but punctures to the sidewall should not be repaired Tires must be removed from the rim to be properly inspected before being plugged and patched 3 5 10 Tire Fundamentals Federal law requires tire manufacturers to place stan
31. ave this manual contact your dealer for assistance 9 2 2 2 Manually Adjusting Brake Shoes Most braking systems are not automatically adjusted These brakes require manual adjustment The following steps apply to adjust most manually adjustable brakes Read your axle and brake manual to see how to adjust your brakes If you do not have this manual contact your dealer for assistance 1 Jack up the trailer and secure it on adequate capacity jack stands Be sure the wheel and brake drum rotate freely Remove the adjusting hole cover from the adjusting slot on the bottom of the brake backing plate With a screwdriver or standard adjusting tool rotate the starwheel of the adjuster assembly to expand the brake shoes Adjust the brake shoes out until the pressure of the linings against the drum makes the wheel very difficult to turn Note Your trailer maybe equipped with drop spindle axles See axle manual for your axle type You will need a modified adjusting tool for adjusting the brakes in these axles Rotate the starwheel in the opposite direction until the wheel turns freely with a slight drag Replace the adjusting hole cover Repeat the above procedure on all brakes Lower the trailer to the ground 2 3 6 7 8 9 2 2 3 Electric Brakes Two different types of electric brakes may be present on the trailer an emergency electric breakaway system which acts only if the trailer comes loose from the hitch and th
32. axles the GAWR of each axle will be provided If your trailer has a GVWR of 10 000 pounds or less there is a vehicle placard located in the same location as the certification label described above This placard provides tire and loading information In addition this placard will show a statement regarding maximum cargo capacity Cargo can be added to the trailer up to the maximum weight specified on the placard The combined weight of the cargo is provided as a single number In any case remember the total weight of a fully loaded trailer can not exceed the stated GVWR When loading your cargo be sure it is distributed evenly to prevent overloading front to back and side to side Heavy items should be placed low and as close to the axle positions as reasonable Too many items on one side may overload a tire The best way to know the actual weight of the vehicle is to weigh it at a public scale Talk to your dealer to discuss the weighing methods needed to capture the various weights related to the trailer This would include the weight empty or unloaded weights per axle wheel hitch or king pin and total weight Excessive loads and or underinflation cause tire overloading and as a result normal tire flexing occurs This situation can generate an excessive amount of heat within the tire Excessive heat may lead to tire failure It is the air pressure that enables a tire to support the load so proper inflation is critical The
33. breakaway brake system from operating when it is needed Contact the hitch manufacturer or installer if you are not certain of the hitch provisions for the breakaway brake connection 4 3 2 6 Test Electric Brakes If your trailer has electric brakes your tow vehicle will have an electric brake controller that sends power to the trailer brakes Before towing the trailer on the road you must operate the brake controller while trying to pull the trailer in order to confirm that the electric brakes operate While towing the trailer at less than 5 mph manually operate the electric brake controller in the tow vehicle You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes If the trailer brakes are not functioning the brake system MUST be evaluated to determine the cause of the problem and corrective action MUST be taken before the trailer is used Take the unit to your dealer or a qualified brake specialist Use this procedure each time you tow the trailer to check brake system operation 4 3 2 7 Test Electric Breakaway Brakes The breakaway brake system includes a battery a switch with a pullpin and lanyard and a breakaway brake controller Read and follow the instructions here as well as the instructions that have been prepared by the breakaway brake manufacturer If you do not have these instructions contact your dealer for assistance Coupling To Tow Vehicle The trailer will have a small breakaway battery mounted ne
34. cle brakes and the trailer brakes For proper operation and synchronization read and follow the axle brake and the brake controller manufacturers instructions If you do not have these instructions contact your dealer for assistance 9 2 2 5 Electric Brake Magnets To make certain an electrically operated braking system will function properly you must have your dealer inspect the magnets at least once a year or each 12 000 miles See the brake manual for wear and current inspection instructions 9 2 3 Trailer Brakes Hydraulic If Equipped Check reservoir fluid level prior to using the trailer Check with your dealer for the type of fluid used in the brake system Inspection Service And Maintenance Use only fresh fluid from a sealed container DO NOT reuse fluid After filling and bleeding refill the actuator Failure to maintain an adequate fluid level may cause brake failure 9 2 4 Trailer Connection To Tow Vehicle 9 2 4 1 Gooseneck Receiver And Ball Before each tow coat the ball with a thin layer of automotive bearing grease to reduce wear and ensure proper operation and check the locking device that secures the receiver to the ball for proper operation If you see or can feel evidence of wear such as flat spots pitting or corrosion on the ball or receiver immediately have your dealer inspect them to determine the proper action to prevent possible failure of the ball and receiver s
35. d the vehicle Wheel holding fixture The fixture used to hold the wheel and tire assembly securely during testing 3 5 Tire Safety Everything Rides On It The National Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA has published a brochure DOT HS 809 361 that discusses all aspects of Tire Safety as required by CFR 575 6 This brochure is reproduced in part below It can be obtained and downloaded from NHTSA free of charge from the following web site http www nhtsa dot gov cars rules TireSafety ridesonit tires index html Studies of tire safety show that maintaining proper tire pressure observing tire and vehicle load limits not carrying more weight in your vehicle than your tires or vehicle can safely handle avoiding road hazards and inspecting tires for cuts slashes and other irregularities are the most important things you can do to avoid tire failure such as tread separation or blowout and flat tires These actions along with other care and maintenance activities can also e Improve vehicle handling e Help protect you and others from avoidable breakdowns and accidents e Improve fuel economy e Increase the life of your tires This booklet presents a comprehensive overview of tire safety including information on the following topics e Basic tire maintenance e Uniform Tire Quality Grading System Tire Safety e Fundamental characteristics of tires e Tire safety tips Use this information to make tire safet
36. d to drive at moderate speeds Statistics indicate the average life of a trailer tire is about five years under normal use and maintenance conditions After three years replacing the trailer tires with new ones should be considered even if the tires have adequate tread depth Some experts claim Tire Safety that after five years trailer tires are considered worn out and should be replaced even if they have had minimal or no use This is such a general statement that it may not apply in all cases It is best to have your tires inspected by a tire supplier to determine if your tires need to be replaced If you are storing your trailer for an extended period make sure the tires are fully inflated to the maximum rated pressure and that you store them in a cool dry place such as a garage Use tire covers to protect the trailer tires from the harsh effects of the sun 3 2 Steps For Determining Correct Load Limit Trailer Determining the load limits of a trailer includes more than understanding the load limits of the tires alone On all trailers there is a Federal Certification VIN label that is located on the forward half of the left road side of the unit This certification VIN label will indicate the trailer s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating GVWR This is the most weight the fully loaded trailer can weigh It will also provide the Gross Axle Weight Rating GAWR This is the most a particular axle can weigh If there are multiple
37. dardized information on the sidewall of all tires This information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of the tire and also provides a tire identification number for safety standard certification and in case of a recall 3 5 10 1 Information on Passenger Vehicle Tires Radial Rim diameter code Ratio of height to width aspect ratio Load index amp Nominal width of speed symbol tire in millimeters U S DOT tire 8 65R15 Passenger qn SS 95 4 A identification number ae len Ta __ Severe snow conditions PRESS 2 aw trin Man 7 rmissable nilation ressure ATIR pr E Nay IF and materials used Treadwear traction and temperalure grades Max load rating P The P indicates the tire is for passenger vehicles Next number This three digit number gives the width in millimeters of the tire from sidewall edge to sidewall edge In general the larger the number the wider the tire Next number This two digit number known as the aspect ratio gives the tire s ratio of height to width Numbers of 70 or lower indicate a short sidewall Tire Safety for improved steering response and better overall handling on dry pavement R The R stands for radial Radial ply construction of tires has been the industry standard for the past 20 years Next number This two digit number is the wheel or rim diameter in inches If you change your wheel
38. dneacenndenes 45 9 2 2 2 Manually Adjusting Brake ShOC6S cccccsssseeecseeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees 46 9 2 2 3 Electric E 46 9 2 2 4 Tow Vehicle Operated Electric Brakes ccssssssseeeeeeeeeesseeeeeeeeeenseeeneeeees 46 9 2 2 5 Electric Brake Riagnebe uueessebeeee usgeuagtessgsaiesshaeenssgebteteeg ak annainn aiani aaia 46 9 2 3 Trailer Brakes Hydraulic If Equipped ccccssseeeeceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeees 46 9 2 4 Trailer Connection To Tow VehiICIC ccccsessseeeeeeeeessseneeeeeeesssseeeneeseeesenssneeeeeees 47 9 2 4 1 Gooseneck Receiver And Ball ccccccessseeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeeseseeeneeeees 47 9 2 4 2 King Pin And Fifth Wheel saa 47 9 2 5 Landing Leg OF Te 47 9 2 6 Lights And Signals Umaasa aaa 47 Ce ek H 47 9 2 8 Wheel BANG S inc sesscisstnaiescavedaimonmniccawennasiaiadaetntiadnaninnanenonesrscudesiveunvniasudesdssantnasnnuaued 47 E WO 47 Co eg O oo Cers iie E 48 2 2 11 LUN NU paaa AABANG 48 Introduction 1 Introduction Congratulations on the purchase of your trailer We believe you will be happy and completely satisfied with your purchase Our goal is to provide a valued customer a quality trailer at a reasonable price For your safety read and understand this manual before operating your trailer If there are any questions about information in this manual please consult your dealer When calling about your trailer pl
39. e amp replace Section 4 and 9 when worn King Pin And Fifth Wheel Check for cracks pits and flats Section 4 and 9 Replace w king pin and fifth wheel having trailer GVW Rating Grease Section 4 and 9 Check locking device amp replace Section 4 and 9 when worn Check tire pressure when cold Section 6 and 9 Inflate as needed Section 6 and 9 Check for damage Wheels Lug Nuts Or Bolts 4 Hub Check for tightness Section 6 Tighten For new and remounted Section 7 and 9 wheels check torque after first 10 25 amp 50 miles of driving and after any impact 42 Inspection Service And Maintenance Inspection And Service Every Month Item ji Inspection Service Manual Section Reference Lubrication Lubricate gate and door hinges if Section 9 equipped Inspection and Service Every 6 Months or 6 000 Miles item 5 9 c OS Inspection Service Manual Section Reference Brakes electric Magnet Controller in tow vehicle Brakes Electric Hydraulic Check wear and current draw Section 9 Check power output amperage Section 9 and modulation See Controller Mfr s Manual Inspect tread and sidewalls Section 9 thoroughly Replace tire when treads are worn Section 9 when sidewall has a bulge or sidewall is worn Rotate every 5 000 Miles Section 9 Check Operation Section 4 and 9 Check Operation Check Reservoir Level Brake Shoes And Drums Adjust Section 7 and 9 Safety Chai
40. e breakaway pin is pulled The other brake is an electric braking system that acts whenever the brakes of the tow vehicle are applied Breakaway Battery This battery supplies the power to operate the trailer brakes if the trailer uncouples from the tow vehicle Be sure to check maintain and replace the battery according to the battery manufacturer s instructions Your trailer may use the hydraulic system battery to operate the breakaway brakes Extreme cold weather can degrade battery performance and cause brakes to not operate properly 46 Check battery charge level before towing Breakaway Switch This switch engages the electric brakes if the trailer uncouples from the tow vehicle To check for proper functioning of the switch battery and brakes you must pull the pin from the switch and confirm that the brakes apply to each wheel You can do this by trying to pull the trailer with the tow vehicle after pulling the pin The trailer brakes may not lock but you will notice that a greater force is needed to pull the trailer If electric breakaway brakes do not operate when trailer is uncoupled from the tow vehicle death or serious injury can occur Check emergency breakaway brake system before each tow 9 2 2 4 Tow Vehicle Operated Electric Brakes The electric brakes that operate in conjunction with the tow vehicle brakes must be synchronized so that braking is properly distributed to the tow vehi
41. e visible A bubble cut or bulge in a side wall can result ina tire blowout Inspect both side walls of each tire for any bubble cut or bulge and replace a damaged tire before towing the trailer If you are storing your trailer for an extended period make sure the tires are inflated to the maximum rated pressure indicated on the sidewall or VIN label and that you store them in a cool dry place such as a garage Use tire covers to protect the tires from the harsh effects of the sun Ti Possible Cause Remedy Condition Check amp Adjust Pressure When Cold Even Center Wear Over Inflation Check amp Adjust Pressure When Cold Under Inflation Inside amp Outside Wear Check amp Unload Smooth Loss of Side Wear Camber or As Necessary One Side Overloading Have Alignment Checked Axle Not Square To Frame or Incorrect Toe In Feathering Square Axles Across The Face Have Alignment Checked Loose Bearings or Wheel Balance Check Bearing Adjustment and Wheel A Tire Balance Cupping Wheel Adjust Brakes Lockup Flat Spots Tire Inspection Chart 48 Worn damaged or under inflated tires can cause loss of control injury and damage Check tires before each tow 9 2 10 Lubrication Lubricate gate and door hinges every month if equipped 9 2 11 Lug Nuts Lug nuts are prone to loosen right aft
42. ease have the VIN number available for the dealer The VIN number is normally on the front left side of the trailer For future reference please write your VIN number in the space below This manual covers the basic trailer You must read understand and follow the instructions given by the trailer manufacturer tow vehicle and trailer hitch manufacturers Keep all manuals provided with your trailer in a safe place at all times Inserts providing information on axles and tire warranty are provided with this manual Please keep these inserts for future reference Safety 2 SAFETY 2 1 SaAreTy ALERT SYMBOLS AND SIGNAL Worps An Owner s Manual that provides general trailer information cannot cover all of the specific details necessary for the proper combination of every trailer tow vehicle and hitch You must read understand and follow the instructions given by the tow vehicle and trailer hitch manufacturers as well as the instructions in this manual Our trailers are built with components produced by various manufacturers Some of these items have separate instruction manuals Where this manual indicates that you should read another manual and you do not have that manual contact your dealer for assistance The safety information in this manual is denoted by the safety alert symbol A This symbol means ATTENTION BECOME ALERT YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED The level of risk is indicated by the following signal words
43. ed 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 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 Safety Inflate tires to pressure stated on the Certification VIN label Improper tire pressure may cause unstable trailer Blowout and loss of control may occur Death or serious injury can result Make sure of proper tire pressure before towing trailer The tightness of the wheel nuts or bolts is very important in keeping the wheels properly seated to the hub Before each tow check to make sure they are tight Metal creep between the wheel rim and wheel nuts or bolts may cause rim to loosen Death or injury can occur if wheel comes off Tighten lug nuts or bolts before each tow The proper tightness torque for wheel nuts or bolts and tightening sequence is listed in the Inspection Service and Maintenance section of this man
44. eeeeeessenneeeees 32 4 3 2 8 Uncouple Trailer With King Pin ccccssssseeeeeeeeeeseeseeeeeeeeeeesseeeeeeeeensseeneees 33 CE We CTT LEE 33 4 4 1 Checking Tongue Weight asaan Geesen 34 4 5 Adjust GOOSENECK Height 34 5 koading And UMIOAGING kaaa AA 36 5 1 Loading RL AA 36 5 1 1 Preparing Trailer For Loading lana ANAN NASAKANA SEA 36 5 1 2 Loading A Horse Trailer E 37 6 Pre e E TC 39 6 1 Pre TOW GHECKINS AA AA AA 39 6 2 Make Regular StopS sssssssssnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn nnmn n nnmnnn nnaman 39 7 Breaking In A New Trailer pi GARA 40 7A Retighten Lugs At First 10 25 amp 50 Miles een 40 7 2 Adjust Brakes At First 200 Miles 2022 eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee0002000020000000000e 40 7 3 Synchronizing Brake Systems escseeeeceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees 40 8 Accessories KR NK ENK NEEN NENNEN EN ERKENNEN EN EN ERKENNEN NK 41 8 1 Accessory REESEN CA AA paan 41 9 Inspection Service And Maintenance 11111 a 42 9 1 Inspection Service amp Maintenance Summary Charts maana nn nanana 42 9 2 Inspection And Service Instructions a 45 9 2 1 Trailer HERE eege 45 9 2 1 1 Fasteners And Frame Membets cccccccssseeeeeceesesseseeeeeeeeesessneeeeeeeeenseseneeeaes 45 UF E D 45 9 2 2 Trailer Brakes TE 45 9 2 2 1 Brake Shoes And DEUS scissitccscsictsnnsedscnwasdnanenndaceeceincananssaninennnadwenecsa
45. er or 4 Star Trailers Inc To contact NHTSA you may call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll free at 1 888 327 4236 TTY 1 800 424 9153 or go to http Awww safercar gov or write to Administrator NHTSA 1200 New Jersey SE Washington DC 20590 You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http www safercar gov Tire Safety 3 Tire Safety Information This portion of the User s Manual contains tire safety information as required by 49 CFR 575 6 Section 3 1 contains Trailer Tire Information Section 3 2 contains Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit Trailer Section 3 3 contains Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit Tow Vehicle Section 3 4 contains a Glossary of Tire Terminology including cold inflation pressure maximum inflation pressure recommended inflation pressure and other non technical terms Section 3 5 contains information from the NHTSA brochure entitled Tire Safety Everything Rides On It This brochure as well as preceding subsections describes the following items e Tire labeling including a description and explanation of each marking on the tires and information about the DOT Tire Identification Number TIN e Recommended tire inflation pressure including a description and explanation of A Cold inflation pressure B Vehicle Placard and location on the vehicle C Adverse safety consequences of u
46. er a wheel is mounted to a hub When driving on a remounted wheel check to see if the lug nuts are tight after the first 10 25 and 50 miles of driving and before each tow thereafter Lug nuts or bolts are prone to loosen after being first assembled Death or serious injury can result Check lug nuts or bolts for tightness on a new trailer and after re mounting a wheel at 10 25 and 50 miles Metal creep between the wheel rim and lug nuts or bolts can cause rim to loosen Death or injury can occur if wheel comes off Tighten lug nuts or bolts before each tow Tighten the lug nuts or bolts in three stages to the final torque for the axle size on your trailer to prevent wheels from coming loose Tighten each lug nut or bolt in the order shown in the following figure Use a calibrated torque wrench to tighten the fasteners Verify that wheel studs are free of contaminates such as paint or grease which may result in inaccurate torque readings Over tightening will result in breaking the studs or permanently deforming the mounting stud holes in the wheels and will void the axle warranty Inspection Service And Maintenance 2 2 4 BOLT 5 BOLT 6 BOLT 8 BOLT See your axle manufacturers manual or your dealer for wheel nut or bolt torque specifications 49 50 EU 52
47. es the more weight a tire can support Tire manufacturers also must indicate the materials in the tire which include steel nylon polyester and others Maximum Load Rating This number indicates the maximum load in kilograms and pounds that can be carried by the tire 23 Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal driving conditions 3 5 10 2 UTQGS Information Treadwear Number This number indicates the tire s wear rate The higher the treadwear number is the longer it should take for the tread to wear down For example a tire graded 400 should last twice as long as a tire graded 200 Traction Letter This letter indicates a tire s ability to stop on wet pavement A higher graded tire should allow you to stop your car on wet roads in a shorter distance than a tire with a lower grade Traction is graded from highest to lowest as AA A B and C Temperature Letter This letter indicates a tire s resistance to heat The temperature grade is for a tire that is inflated properly and not overloaded Excessive speed under inflation or excessive loading either separately or in combination can cause heat build up and possible tire failure From highest to lowest a tire s resistance to heat is graded as A B or O 3 5 10 3 Additional Information On Light Truck Tires Maximum load
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49. g If a door opens your cargo may be ejected onto the road resulting in death or serious injury to other drivers Always secure door latch after closing Place a linchpin in the catch Safety 2 2 12 Inappropriate Cargo The trailer may be designed for specific cargo If your trailer is designed for specific cargo only carry that cargo in the trailer A trailer must not be used to carry certain items such as people containers of hazardous substances or containers of flammable substances A trailer not designed with a living quarters must only be used for transportation of its intended cargo Do not transport people in your trailer Besides putting their lives at risk the transport of people in a trailer is illegal Do not transport flammable explosive poisonous or other dangerous materials in your trailer The exception is fuel in the tank of equipment being hauled Ay DANGER You can die or be brain damaged by Carbon Monoxide Do not operate a generator portable grills portable heaters portable lanterns or portable stoves inside the trailer Do not sleep in a trailer not equipped with living quarters A trailer not designed with living quarters must only be used for transportation of its intended cargo 2 2 13 Hazards To Horses Before hauling a horse you must be aware of its temperament The layout of a horse trailer is designed to safely contain your horse The trailer is equipped
50. h wheel and king pin are tight before coupling the trailer 7 Raise the bottom surface of the king pin plate to be slightly above the top of the fifth wheel 4 3 2 2 Prepare King Pin And Fifth Wheel 1 Lubricate king pin and fifth wheel with grease 2 Lower tow vehicle tailgate if equipped No one must be under the trailer or king pin during coupling Death or serious injury can occur if the trailer drops 4 3 2 3 Couple Trailer To Tow Vehicle 1 Back tow vehicle up close to the trailer centering the kingpin in the slot of the fifth wheel Stop before engaging the coupling No one must be under the trailer or king pin during coupling Death or serious injury can occur if the trailer drops 1 Adjust height of the trailer using the jack so that the king pin plate just touches the fifth wheel plate 2 Slowly back up tow vehicle keeping the kingpin centered in the slot of the fifth wheel Continue backing up until the fifth wheel locks firmly on the kingpin 3 Attempt to pull forward as an initial test of the closing of the fifth wheel locks 4 Visually check to confirm that the fifth wheel locks are properly locked onto the kingpin The king pin plate 1 must be in contact with the fifth wheel 2 with no space The adjustment nut 3 must be seated against the fifth wheel Coupling To Tow Vehicle An improperly coupled fifth wheel can come loose resulting in de
51. he rear wheel of the tow vehicle can lose traction or grip and cause loss of control Also even if there is some weight on the tongue but not enough weight on the tongue the trailer can become unstable at high speeds Remember the faster you go the more likely the trailer is to sway If there is too much tongue weight the tow vehicle is prone to jack knife The front wheels of the tow vehicle can be too lightly loaded and cause loss of steering control In addition to tow vehicle control tongue weight is necessary to insure that the trailer axle s do not exceed their Gross Axle Weight Rating GAWR Coupling To Tow Vehicle The rule of thumb is that 20 25 percentage of total weight of the trailer plus its cargo Gross Trailer Weight or GTW that should be on the tongue of the trailer For example a gooseneck trailer with a loaded weight of 6 000 pounds should have 20 25 of 6 000 pounds 1200 1500 Ibs on the hitch The numbers quoted are for example purposes only and should be tailored to the specific trailer For questions regarding the actual percent of tongue weight for the trailer check with the manufacturer for specifics Improper tongue weight load distribution can result in loss of control of the trailer leading to death or serious injury Make certain that tongue weight is within the allowable range Be sure to e Distribute the load evenly right and left e Keep the center of gravity low e
52. he trailer must be adjusted so that the trailer when loaded to rated capacity is level while connected to the tow vehicle A level trailer allows equal weight distribution on the axles Your dealer or a trailer service center can perform this adjustment or you can use the following steps to adjust the hitch height yourself Improper receiver or king pin height adjustment can result in overloaded tires blowout and loss of control leading to death or serious injury Adjust the receiver or king pin height so 34 that the loaded trailer is level Connect trailer to tow vehicle and load the trailer to rated capacity See Loading And Unloading Park the tow vehicle and trailer on a firm level surface Stand away from the trailer and visually verify if the trailer is level front to rear If the front of the trailer is higher than the rear the hitch must be raised If the front of the trailer is lower than the rear the hitch must be lowered Uncouple trailer from tow vehicle Loosen jam nuts and set screws A Remove retaining pin B and load bearing pin C if equipped Extend or retract the receiver or king pin as needed up to the maximum specified by the manufacturer If equipped fully insert load bearing pin B through one set of holes in receiver and outer tube NEVER use the set screw or any other device as a replacement for the load bearing pin B If equipped install retaining pin C on load bearing pin B
53. hicle to tow a trailer ask the vehicle dealer for advice on how to outfit the tow vehicle Vehicle manufacturers will provide you with the maximum towing capacities of their various models as well as the GCWR No amount of reinforcement will give a 100 horsepower 2 500 pound truck the towing capacity that a 300 horsepower 5 000 pound truck has 4 2 Coupling And Uncoupling The Trailer A secure coupling or fastening of the trailer to the tow vehicle is essential A loss of coupling may result in death or serious injury Therefore you must understand and follow all of the instructions for coupling The following parts are involved in making a secure coupling between the trailer and tow vehicle Coupling The trailer connecting mechanism by which the connection is actually made to the trailer hitch This does not include any structural member extension of the trailer frame or brake controller Coupling To Tow Vehicle Hitch The connecting mechanism including the ball support platform and ball and those components that extend and are attached to the towing vehicle including bumpers intended to serve as hitches Safety chains Chains permanently attached to the trailer such that if the 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 receiver to h
54. ire valves have valve caps e Check tire pressure before going on a long trip e Do not overload your vehicle Check the Tire Information Placard or Owner s Manual for the maximum recommended load for the vehicle 24 Coupling To Tow Vehicle 4 Coupling To Tow Vehicle Follow all of the safety precautions and instructions in this manual to ensure safety of persons cargo and satisfactory life of the trailer 4 1 Tow Vehicle And Hitch If the vehicle and hitch are not properly selected and matched to the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating GVWR of your trailer you can cause an accident that could lead to death or serious injury If you already have a tow vehicle know your vehicle tow rating and make certain the trailer s rated capacity is less than or equal to the tow vehicle s rated towing capacity A DANGER 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 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 Verify hitch and tow vehicle are rated for the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of your trailer 4 1 1 Trailer Information The Certification Vehicle Identification Number VIN tag is located on the front left side of the trailer The trailer Certification VIN tag contains the following critical safety informatio
55. itch connection comes apart Trailer lighting and braking connector A device that connects electrical power from the tow vehicle to the trailer 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 battery on the trailer 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 connection comes loose Jack A device on the trailer that is used to raise and lower the trailer tongue 26 An improperly coupled trailer can result in death or serious injury Do not move the trailer until Receiver is secured and locked to hitch Safety chains are secured to tow vehicle Trailer jack s are fully retracted Trailer brakes are checked Tires
56. kes tires wheels and lights Check the lug nuts or bolts for tightness Recheck the load tie downs to make sure the load will not shift during towing Check receiver tightness after towing 50 miles Adjust the brake controller to engage the trailer brakes before the tow vehicle brakes Follow the brake controller manufacturer s literature Use your mirrors to verify that you have room to change lanes or pull into traffic Use your turn signals well in advance Allow plenty of stopping space for your trailer and tow vehicle Use lower gears for climbing and descending grades Do not ride the brakes while descending grades they may get so hot that they stop working Then you will potentially have a runaway tow vehicle and trailer Do not apply the tow vehicle brakes to correct extreme trailer swaying Instead lightly apply the trailer brakes with the hand controller Make regular stops about once each hour Confirm that The receiver is secure to the hitch and is locked Electrical connectors are made e There is appropriate slack in safety chains There is appropriate slack in breakaway lanyard The tires are not visibly low on pressure The cargo is secure and in good condition Slow down for bumps in the road Do not brake while in a curve unless absolutely necessary Instead slow down before you enter the curve Do not drive so fast that the trailer begins to sway due to speed Generally never drive fa
57. lanced and tied down See the appropriate Loading And Unloading section of this manual Tongue weight and weight distribution set up Ramps secured for travel Fire extinguisher Flares and reflectors 6 2 Make Regular Stops After each 50 miles or one hour of towing stop and check the following items Receiver secured Safety chains are fastened and not dragging Cargo secured Doors latched and secured 39 Breaking In A New Trailer 7 Breaking In A New Trailer 7 1 Retighten Lugs At First 10 25 amp 50 Miles Wheel lugs can shift and settle quickly after being first assembled and must be checked after the first 10 25 and 50 miles of driving Failure to perform this check may result in a wheel coming loose from the trailer causing a crash leading to death or serious injury Improper tightening of the lug nuts or bolts voids the axle warranty Refer to the Inspection Service and Maintenance section of this manual Lug nuts or bolts are prone to loosen after being first assembled Death or serious injury can result Check lug nuts or bolts for tightness on a new trailer and after re mounting a wheel at 10 25 and 50 miles 7 2 Adjust Brakes At First 200 Miles Brake shoes and drums experience a rapid initial wear The brakes must be adjusted after the first 200 miles of use and each 3 000 miles thereafter Some axles are fitted with a mechanism that will automatically adjust the brake shoes Read
58. lation by visual inspection For convenience purchase a tire pressure gauge to keep in your vehicle Gauges can be purchased at tire dealerships auto supply stores and other retail outlets The recommended tire inflation pressure that vehicle manufacturers provide reflects the proper psi when a tire is cold The term cold does not relate to the outside temperature Rather a cold tire is one that has not been driven on for at least three hours When you drive your tires get warmer causing the air pressure within them to increase Therefore to get an accurate tire pressure reading you must measure tire pressure when the tires are cold or compensate for the extra pressure in warm tires 3 5 5 Steps For Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure 1 Locate the recommended tire pressure on the vehicle s tire information placard certification label or in the owner s manual 2 Record the tire pressure of all tires 3 If the tire pressure is too high in any of the tires slowly release air by gently pressing on the tire valve stem with the edge of your tire gauge until you get to the correct pressure 4 If the tire pressure is too low note the difference between the measured tire pressure and the correct tire pressure These missing pounds of pressure are what you will need to add Tire Safety 5 Ataservice station add the missing pounds of air pressure to each tire that is under inflated Check all the tires to make sure the
59. lt in uncoupling leading to death or serious injury Keep clear when releasing drop legs 8 Lower jack drop leg if equipped i 9 Rotate jack handle to extend the jack and transfer Be sure the LOAD RATING of the hitch ball the weight of the trailer gooseneck to the jack is equal or greater than the load rating of 10 Raise the trailer receiver above the tow vehicle the receiver hitch 11 Drive tow vehicle forward Be sure the SIZE of the hitch ball matches the size of the receiver 2 Check the kingpin and kingpin plate for wear bending cracks or corrosion before coupling Replace worn bent cracked or corroded kingpin before coupling the trailer 30 Coupling To Tow Vehicle A worn cracked or corroded king pin can fail while towing and may result in death or serious injury Before coupling trailer inspect the king pin for wear corrosion and cracks Replace worn or damaged king pin 3 Wipe the kingpin clean and inspect it visually and by feel for flat spots cracks and pits Check the condition of the fifth wheel mounting in the bed of the tow vehicle 4 Be sure the fifth wheel mechanism operates freely 5 Lubricate the fifth wheel plate surface with a light coat of Lithium base waterproof grease 6 Be sure the fifth wheel and kingpin fasteners are tight and any welds are solid A loose fifth wheel or king pin can result in uncoupling leading to death or serious injury Make sure the fift
60. n for the use of your trailer MANUFACTURER Name of trailer manufacturer DATE OF MANUFACTURE Month and year the trailer was manufactured GVWR The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the maximum allowable gross weight of the trailer and its contents The gross weight of the trailer includes the weight of the trailer and all of the items within it such as cargo and other supplies GAWR The Gross Axle Weight Rating is the maximum gross weight that an axle can support It is 25 the lowest of axle wheel or tire rating Sometimes the tire or wheel rating is lower than the axle manufacturers rating and will then determine GAWR The sum total of the GAWR for all trailer axles may be less than the GVWR for the trailer because some of the trailer load is carried by the tow vehicle rather than by the trailer axle s The total weight of the cargo and trailer must not exceed the GVWR and the load on an axle must not exceed its GAWR TIRE SIZE The tire size and load range for your trailer RIM SIZE The rim size and load range for your trailer PSI The tire air pressure Kilopascals Pounds per Square Inch measured with tires cold VIN The Vehicle Identification Number VEHICLE TYPE Model or style of trailer CERTIFICATION STATEMENT This trailer meets all the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards in effect on the date of manufacture shown above 4 1 2 Tow Vehicle When equipping a new vehicle or an older ve
61. n terms of maximum Gross Trailer Weight GTW and maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating GCWR can be found in the tow vehicle Owner s Manual A DANGER Use of an under rated hitch ball or tow vehicle can result in loss of control leading to death or serious injury Make certain your hitch and tow vehicle are rated for your trailer 2 2 2 Driving Too Fast With ideal road conditions the maximum recommended speed for safely towing a trailer is 55 mph Driving too fast can cause the trailer to sway thus increasing the possibility for loss of control Also your tires may overheat increasing the possibility of a blowout Safety Driving too fast for conditions can result in loss of control and cause death or serious injury Adjust speed down when towing trailer 2 2 3 Adjust Driving When Towing Trailer When towing a trailer you will have decreased acceleration increased stopping distance and increased turning radius The trailer will change the handling characteristics of the tow vehicle making it more sensitive to steering inputs and more likely to be pushed around in windy conditions or when being passed by large vehicles In addition you will need a longer distance to pass due to slower acceleration and increased length With this in mind e 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 steeri
62. nder inflation including tire failure D Measuring and adjusting air pressure for proper inflation e Tire Care including maintenance and safety practices e Vehicle load limits including a description and explanation of the following items A Locating and understanding the load limit information total load capacity and cargo capacity B Calculating total and cargo capacities with varying seating configurations including quantitative examples showing illustrating how the vehicles cargo and luggage capacity decreases as combined number and size of occupants increases This item is also discussed in Section 3 C Determining compatibility of tire and vehicle load capabilities D Adverse safety consequences of overloading on handling and stopping on tires 3 1 Trailer Tire Information Trailer tires may be worn out even though they still have plenty of tread left This is because trailer tires have to carry a lot of weight all the time even when not in use It is actually better for the tire to be rolling down the road than to be idle During use the tire releases lubricants that are beneficial to tire life Using the trailer tires often also helps prevent flat spots from developing The main cause of tire failure is improper inflation Check the cold tire inflation pressures at least once a week for proper inflation levels Cold means that the tires are at the same temperature as the surrounding air such as
63. ng Information Placard mounted next to the Certification VIN label the cargo capacity weight stated on that placard is only a close estimate The GVWR and GAWR are listed on the Certification VIN label normally located on the front left side of the trailer An overloaded trailer can result in failure or loss of control of the trailer leading to death or serious injury Never load a trailer so that the weight on any tire exceeds its rating Never exceed the trailer Gross Vehicle Weight Rating GVWR or axle Gross Axle Weight Rating GAWR Safety 2 2 10 Unsafe Load Distribution Improper front rear load distribution can lead to an unstable trailer or poor tow vehicle handling Poor trailer stability results from tongue weights that are too low and poor tow vehicle stability results from tongue weights that are too high Refer to the Loading And Unloading section for more information The rule of thumb is that 20 25 percentage of total weight of the trailer plus its cargo Gross Trailer Weight or GTW that should be on the tongue of the trailer For example a gooseneck trailer with a loaded weight of 6 000 pounds should have 20 25 of 6 000 pounds 1200 1500 Ibs on the hitch The numbers quoted are for example purposes only and should be tailored to the specific trailer For questions regarding the actual percent of tongue weight for the trailer check with the manufacturer for specifics The t
64. ng 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 e Check rearview mirrors frequently to observe trailer and traffic e Be aware of trailer height especially when approaching bridges roofed areas and trees e Be alert for slippery conditions You are more likely to be affected by slippery road surfaces when driving a tow vehicle with a trailer than driving a tow vehicle without a trailer e 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 e 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 2 2 4 Trailer Not Properly Coupled To 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 Proper selection and condition of the receiver and hitch are essential to safely towing a trailer A loss of coupling may result in death or serious injury Hitch size mu
65. ns amp Hooks Check for wear damage Receiver And Hitch Ball King Pin And Fifth Wheel Check for cracks pits and flats Section 4 and 9 Replace w ball and receiver having trailer GVW Rating Grease Section 4 and 9 Check locking device amp replace Section 4 and 9 when worn Check for cracks pits and flats Section 4 and 9 Replace w king pin and fifth wheel having trailer GVW Rating Grease Section 4 and 9 Check locking device amp replace Section 4 and 9 when worn 43 Inspection Service And Maintenance Inspection And Service Every Year or 12 000 Miles item o CC Inspection Service Manual Section Reference Brakes all types Check for scoring and wear Replace Section 9 Shoes and Drums per manufacturer s specifications See Brake Mfr s Manual Jack Drop leg if equipped See Jack Mfr s Manual Structure Frame Members Inspect all frame members bolts 4 Section 9 rivets Repair or replace damaged worn or broken parts Inspect all welds Repair as Section 9 needed Wheels Wheel Bearings Disassemble inspect assemble Section 9 4 See Axle Mfr s Manual and repack Replace promptly if immersed in water Rims Inspect for cracks amp dents Replace as needed Structure Axle Attachment Bolts Check BY DEALER Section 9 44 Inspection Service And Maintenance 9 2 Inspection And Service Instructions Broken or damaged fasteners can cause injury or damage to trailer and contents
66. our dealer for weld repairs The tow vehicle engine must be off ignition key removed and parking brakes set before entering the area under the trailer Broken or damaged welds can cause injury or damage to trailer and contents Inspect for and repair all damaged parts at 9 2 1 Trailer Structure least once a year Wash the trailer as needed with a power washer and a detergent solution 9 2 2 Trailer Brakes Electric 9 2 2 1 Brake Shoes And Drums Properly functioning brake shoes and drums are 9 2 1 1 Fasteners AND FRAME MEMBERS Inspect all fasteners and structural frame members essential to ensure safety You must have your dealer for bending and other damage cracks or failure inspect these components at least once per year or Repair or replace any damaged fastener and repair each 12 000 miles Brake adjustment is not covered the frame member If you have any questions about under the axle warranty the condition or method of repair of fasteners or frame members get the recommendation of or have the The brake shoes must be adjusted after the first 200 repair done by your dealer miles of use and each 3 000 miles thereafter Most axles are fitted with a brake mechanism that will 45 Inspection Service And Maintenance automatically adjust the brake shoes when the trailer is hard braked from a rearward direction Read your axle and brake manual to see how to adjust your brakes If you do not h
67. our dealer or the manufacturer and describe the alteration you are contemplating 2 2 16 Trailer Towing Guide Driving a vehicle with a trailer in tow is vastly different from driving the same vehicle without a trailer in tow Acceleration maneuverability and braking are all diminished with a trailer in tow It takes longer to get up to speed you need more room to turn and pass and more distance to stop when towing a trailer You will need to spend time adjusting to the different feel and maneuverability of the tow vehicle with a loaded trailer Because of the significant differences in all aspects of maneuverability when towing a trailer the hazards and risks of injury are also much greater than when driving without a trailer You are responsible for keeping your vehicle and trailer in control and for all the damage that is caused if you lose control of your vehicle and trailer Find an open area with little or no traffic for your first practice Before you start towing the trailer you must follow all of the instructions for inspection testing loading and coupling Also before you start towing adjust the mirrors so you can see the trailer as well as the area to the rear of it Drive slowly at first 5 mph or so and turn the wheel to get the feel of how the tow vehicle and trailer combination responds Next make some right and left hand turns Watch in your side mirrors to see how the trailer follows the tow vehicle Tu
68. our tow vehicle will have an electric brake controller that sends power to the trailer brakes Before towing the trailer on the road you must operate the brake controller while trying to pull the trailer in order to confirm that the electric brakes operate While towing the trailer at less than 5 mph manually operate the electric brake controller in the tow vehicle You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes If the trailer brakes are not functioning the brake system MUST be evaluated to determine the cause of the problem and corrective action MUST be taken before the trailer is used Take the unit to your dealer or a qualified brake specialist Use this procedure each time you tow the trailer to check brake system operation 4 3 1 8 Test Electric Breakaway Brakes The breakaway brake system includes a battery a switch with a pullpin and lanyard and a breakaway brake controller Read and follow the instructions here as well as the instructions that have been prepared by the breakaway brake manufacturer If you do not have these instructions contact your dealer for assistance 29 The trailer will have a small breakaway battery mounted near the breakaway switch Most trailers are setup to charge the battery from the tow vehicle If the electrical system on your tow vehicle does not provide power to the battery you must periodically charge the battery with a commercial battery charger to keep the battery charged
69. overall performance of the vehicle The tire inflation pressure is a number that indicates the amount of air pressure measured in pounds per square inch psi a tire requires to be properly inflated You will also find this number on the vehicle information placard expressed in kilopascals kPa which is the metric measure used internationally Manufacturers of passenger vehicles and light trucks determine this number based on the vehicle s design load limit that is the greatest amount of weight a vehicle can safely carry and the vehicle s tire size The proper tire pressure for your vehicle is referred to as the recommended cold inflation pressure As you will read below it is difficult to obtain the recommended tire pressure if your tires are not cold Because tires are designed to be used on more than one type of vehicle tire manufacturers list the maximum permissible inflation pressure on the tire sidewall This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal driving conditions 3 5 4 Safety First Basic Tire Maintenance It is important to check your vehicle s tire pressure at least once a month for the following reasons e Most tires may naturally lose air over time e Tires can lose air suddenly if you drive over a pothole or other object or if you strike the curb when parking e With radial tires it is usually not possible to determine under inf
70. pecial trim Radial ply tire A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at substantially 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread Recommended inflation pressure This is the inflation pressure provided by the vehicle manufacturer on the Tire Information label and on the Certification VIN tag Reinforced tire A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding standard tire Rim A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads are seated Tire Safety Rim diameter This means the nominal diameter of the bead seat Rim size designation This means the rim diameter and width Rim type designation This means the industry of manufacturer s designation for a rim by style or code Rim width This means the nominal distance between rim flanges Section width The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire excluding elevations due to labeling decoration or protective bands Sidewall That portion of a tire between the tread and bead Sidewall separation The parting of the rubber compound from the cord material in the sidewall Special Trailer ST tire The ST is an indication the tire is for trailer use only Test rim The rim on which a tire is fitted for testing and may be any rim listed as appropriate for use with that tire Tread That portion of a tire tha
71. pin can result the bed of the tow vehicle in ineffective brakes leading to loss of control serious injury or death If you do not use your trailer for three or more months or during winter months e Store the battery indoors and e Charge the battery every three months OR Replace the breakaway brake battery according to the Ga intervals specified by battery manufacturer 4 3 1 9 Uncouple Trailer With Ball Receiver pas ko Follow these steps to uncouple trailer from the tow CH vehicle 1 Park the trailer on a firm level surface and block trailer tires Lower tow vehicle tailgate if equipped Disconnect electrical connector Disconnect breakaway brake switch lanyard Disconnect safety chains from tow vehicle Unlock the receiver and open it Before extending jack make certain the ground surface below the jack pad will support the tongue load We have utilized a king pin that is suitable for the size and weight of the trailer You must provide a fifth wheel and support for your tow vehicle that meets or exceeds the GVWR of the trailer NO oR tabu Be sure the size and rating of the fifth wheel and kingpin match 4 3 2 1 Before Coupling Trailer To Tow Vehicle 1 Be sure the size and rating of the fifth wheel and Drop leg jacks may be spring loaded kingpin match If so they will rapidly return to the raise osition when released P Receiver to hitch mismatch can resu
72. r member which can be mounted on a vehicle Normal occupant weight This means 68 kilograms 150 Ibs times the number of occupants specified in the second column of Table of 49 CFR 571 110 Occupant distribution The distribution of occupants in a vehicle as specified in the third column of Table of 49 CFR 571 110 Open splice Any parting at any junction of tread sidewall or innerliner that extends to cord material Outer diameter The overall diameter of an inflated new tire Overall width The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire including elevations due to labeling decorations or protective bands or ribs Pin Weight The downward force applied to the 5th wheel or gooseneck ball by the trailer kingpin or gooseneck coupler Ply A layer of rubber coated parallel cords Ply separation A parting of rubber compound between adjacent plies Pneumatic tire A mechanical device made of rubber chemicals fabric and steel or other materials that when mounted on an automotive wheel provides the traction and contains the gas or fluid that sustains the load Production options weight The combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over 2 3 kilograms 5 Ibs in excess of those standard items which they replace not previously considered in curb weight or accessory weight including heavy duty brakes ride levelers roof rack heavy duty battery and s
73. railer will have the proper weight distribution if the load is evenly distributed in the dump body For non flowable discrete loads locate the load such as to provide the proper tongue weight After loading be sure to check that none of the axles are overloaded Uneven left right load distribution can cause tire wheel axle or structural failure Be sure your trailer is evenly loaded left right Towing stability also depends on keeping the center of gravity as low as possible Improper tongue weight load distribution can result in loss of control of the trailer leading to death or serious injury Make certain that tongue weight is within the allowable range Be sure to e Distribute the load evenly right and left e Keep the center of gravity low e Distribute the load front to rear to provide proper tongue weight A flowable load must be evenly distributed throughout the body 2 2 11 Shifting Cargo Since the trailer ride can be bumpy and rough you must secure the cargo so that it does not shift while the trailer is being towed A shifting load can result in failure or to loss of control of the trailer and can lead to death or serious injury You must tie down all loads with proper sized fasteners chains straps etc to prevent the load from shifting while towing If the door latch is equipped with a catch that has a hole for a linchpin use a linchpin to prevent the door latch from openin
74. rical system using trailer electrical cable Check all lights for proper operation Repair or replace non working lights before towing trailer Check electric brakes for proper operation using brake controller mounted in the cab Improper electrical connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer will result in inoperable lights and electric brakes and can lead to collision Before each tow e Check that the electric brakes work by operating the brake controller inside the tow vehicle e Check that all lights and turn signals work 4 3 1 6 Attach Breakaway Brake Lanyard If the receiver or hitch fails a properly connected and working breakaway brake system will apply the trailer brakes The safety chains will keep the tow vehicle attached and as the trailer brakes are applied the trailer tow vehicle combination will come to a controlled stop Connect the lanyard to the tow vehicle so that the hydraulic actuator will engage or the electric brake pullpin will be pulled out before all of the slack in the safety chains is taken up Do not connect the lanyard Coupling To Tow Vehicle to a safety chain gooseneck ball or its support This would keep the breakaway brake system from operating when it is needed Contact the hitch manufacturer or installer if you are not certain of the hitch provisions for the breakaway brake connection 4 3 1 7 Test Electric Brakes If your trailer has electric brakes y
75. rning with a trailer attached requires more room Stop the rig a few times from speeds no greater than 10 mph If your trailer is equipped with brakes try using different combinations of trailer electric brake and tow vehicle brake Note the effect that the trailer brakes have when they are the only brakes used When properly adjusted the trailer brakes will come on just before the tow vehicle brakes It will take practice to learn how to back up a tow vehicle with a trailer attached Take it slow Before backing up get out of the tow vehicle and look behind the trailer to make sure that there are no obstacles Safety Some drivers place their hands at the bottom of the steering wheel and while the tow vehicle is in reverse think of the hands as being on the top of the wheel When the hands move to the right counter clockwise as you would do to turn the tow vehicle to the left when moving forward the rear of the trailer moves to the right Conversely rotating the steering wheel clockwise with your hands at the bottom of the wheel will move the rear of the trailer to the left while backing up If you are towing a bumper hitch rig be careful not to allow the trailer to turn too much because it will hit the rear of the tow vehicle To straighten the rig either pull forward or turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction 2 2 17 Safe Trailer Towing Guidelines Before towing check coupling safety chain bra
76. s Load rating The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure Maximum load rating The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire Maximum permissible inflation pressure The maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated Maximum loaded vehicle weight The sum of curb weight accessory weight vehicle capacity weight and production options weight Measuring rim The rim on which a tire is fitted for physical dimension requirements Non pneumatic rim A mechanical device which when a non pneumatic tire assembly incorporates a wheel supports the tire and attaches either integrally or separably to the wheel center member and upon which the tire is attached Non pneumatic spare tire assembly A non pneumatic tire assembly intended for temporary use in place of one of the pneumatic tires and rims that are fitted to a passenger car in compliance with the requirements of this standard Non pneumatic tire A mechanical device which transmits either directly or through a wheel or wheel center member the vertical load and tractive forces from the roadway to the vehicle generates the tractive forces that provide the directional control of the vehicle and does not rely on the containment of any gas or fluid for providing those functions Non pneumatic tire assembly A non pneumatic tire alone or in combination with a wheel or wheel cente
77. st match receiver size Be sure hitch load rating is equal to or greater than load rating of the receiver Be sure hitch components are tight before coupling trailer to tow vehicle Observe hitch for wear corrosion and cracks before coupling Replace worn corroded or cracked hitch components before coupling trailer to tow vehicle An improperly coupled trailer can result in death or serious injury Do not move the trailer until Receiver is secured and locked to hitch Safety chains are secured to tow vehicle Trailer jack s are fully retracted Trailer brakes are checked Tires and wheels are checked Breakaway switch is connected to tow vehicle The trailer lights are connected and checked Load is secured to trailer Safety 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 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 Fasten chains to safety chain receivers on hitch not to ball Have sufficient slack to permit turning and to keep gooseneck on bed of tow vehicle if the trailer comes loose 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 tr
78. stalled An unstable trailer will result if the weight of the horses is not properly distributed in the trailer Always load the first horse into the forward most stall Tie the horse to the trailer interior by fastening the quick connect or tying the lead rope to the tie ring or other facility provided on the trailer wall for attachment of the lead rope A rule of thumb is to leave about 18 inches of free rope between the attachment point on the trailer and the horse Restraining a horse without using a combination of a tie strap and stall divider may result in serious injury or death to the horse Failure to secure a horse using a tie strap may result in serious injury or death to persons and or the horse 8 Close and latch stall divider 9 If additional horses are to be loaded repeat steps 6 8 for each horse lead the horse secure the horse close and latch the stall divider 10 After the last horse has been loaded latch any unused dividers in the CLOSED across the trailer position Double check that each horse is tied to the trailer and each stall divider is LATCHED in the CLOSED position 11 Loading And Unloading If your trailer is fitted with a butt bar or butt strap to keep the horse away from the door hook and latch the butt bar in place Close the trailer Release the door and swing the hinged doors to a closed position or raise the drop ramp Secure the trailer door catch
79. ster than 55 m p h Allow plenty of room for passing A rule of thumb is that the passing distance with a trailer is 4 times the passing distance without a trailer Safety 2 2 18 Safety Warning Labels On Your Trailer DISCONNECTED CONNECTED Lights can prevent trailer from being hit by other vehicles You must 1 CONNECT trailer and tow vehicle electrical connectors 2 CHECK all lights tail lights turn signal and brake lights 3 DO NOT TOW if lights are not working 2002 NATM ATTACH TO TOW r VEHICLE STRUCTURE ALWAYS use sa chains Chains hold trailer if connection fails You must 1 ALLOW slack for trailer to turn 2 ATTACH chain hooks securely to tow Trailer can roll if it comes loose Electric safety brake applies when cable pulls pin out of switch box 1 PULL hard to get pin out of switch box 2 CHECK brake by PULLING TRAILER with tow vehicle 3 ATTACH pin CABLE to tow vehicle so pin will be pulled out if trailer separates 4 Promptly REPLACE pin in switch box 2002 NATM Improper loading can cause trailer sway and sudden loss of control You must e Make certain weight of load plus trailer weight does not exceed trailer s capacity GVWR Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Load heavier items in front of wheels s Load evenly side to side e SECURE load to trailer e Close and PIN or LOCK doors 2002 NAIM Tire wheel or lugnut failure can cause loss of control Before to
80. t comes into contact with the road Tread rib A tread section running circumferentially around a tire Tread separation Pulling away of the tread from the tire carcass Treadwear indicators TWI The projections within the principal grooves designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the tread Vehicle capacity weight The rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilograms 150 Ibs times the vehicle s designated seating capacity Vehicle maximum load on the tire The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing by two Vehicle normal load on the tire The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the curb weight accessory weight and normal occupant weight distributed in accordance with Table of CRF 49 571 110 and dividing by 2 Weather side The surface area of the rim not covered by the inflated tire Wheel center member In the case of a non pneumatic tire assembly incorporating a wheel a mechanical device which attaches either integrally or separably to the non pneumatic rim and provides the connection between the nonpneumatic rim and the vehicle or in the case of a non pneumatic tire assembly not incorporating a wheel a mechanical device which attaches either integrally or separably to the non pneumatic tire and provides the connection between tire an
81. talled equipment whether installed or not Bead The part of the tire that is made of steel wires wrapped or reinforced by ply cords and that is shaped to fit the rim Bead separation This is the breakdown of the bond between components in the bead Bias ply tire A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at alternate angles substantially less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread Carcass The tire structure except tread and sidewall rubber which when inflated bears the load Chunking The breaking away of pieces of the tread or sidewall Cold inflation pressure The pressure in the tire before you drive Cord The strands forming the plies in the tire Cord separation The parting of cords from adjacent rubber compounds Cracking Any parting within the tread sidewall or inner liner of the tire extending to cord material CT A pneumatic tire with an inverted flange tire and rim system in which the rim is designed with rim flanges pointed radially inward and the tire is designed to fit on the underside of the rim in a manner that encloses the rim flanges inside the air cavity of the tire Curb weight The weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel oil and coolant and if so equipped air conditioning and additional weight optional engine Extra load tire A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation
82. ts If your trailer has electric brakes your tow vehicle will have an electric brake controller that sends power to the trailer brakes Before towing the trailer you must operate the brake controller while trying to pull the trailer in order to confirm that the electric brakes operate While towing the trailer at less than 5 mph manually operate the electric brake controller in the tow vehicle cab You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes Be sure that the electric brakes and all of the lights on your trailer are functioning properly before towing the trailer Electric brakes and lights on a trailer are controlled via a connection to the tow vehicle generally a multi pin electrical connector Improper electrical connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer will result in inoperable lights and electric brakes and can lead to collision Before each tow e Check that the electric brakes work by operating the brake controller inside the tow vehicle e Check that all lights and turn signals work You must provide mirrors that allow you to safely observe approaching traffic Standard mirrors usually do not provide adequate visibility for viewing traffic to the sides and rear a towed trailer 2 2 15 Trailer Modifications Modification of the trailer structure or alteration of your trailer can make the trailer unsafe and will void all warranty options Before making any alteration to the trailer contact y
83. ual Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts and use the crisscross star pattern sequence Improper tightening of the lug nuts voids the axle warranty Wheel nuts or bolts are also prone to loosen after first being assembled When driving a new trailer or after wheels have been remounted check to make sure they are tight after the first 10 25 and 50 miles of driving and before each tow thereafter Failure to perform this check can result in a wheel separating from the trailer and a crash leading to death or serious injury Wheel nuts or bolts are prone to loosen after being first assembled Death or serious injury can result Check wheel nuts or bolts for tightness on a new trailer and after re mounting a wheel at 10 25 and 50 miles Inadequate wheel nut or bolt torque can cause a wheel to separate from the trailer leading to death or serious injury Verify wheel nuts or bolts are tight before each tow 2 2 9 Improper Loading The total weight of the load you put on the trailer plus the empty weight of the trailer itself must not exceed the trailer s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating GVWR If you do not know the empty weight of the trailer plus the cargo weight you must weigh the loaded trailer at a commercial scale In addition you must distribute the load in the trailer such that the load on any axle does not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating GAWR If your trailer is equipped with a Tire 4 Loadi
84. wing you must CHECK 1 Tire pressure and tread 2 Tires and wheels for damage 3 Lug nuts for tightness For new and remounted wheels re tighten lug nuts at the first 10 25 and 50 miles of driving Safety MAXIMUM LOADED GVWR EQUALS OVERLOAD HAZARD MAXIMUM RISK OF DEATH DUE TO LOSS OF CONTROL NEVER EXCEED GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING GVWR CARGO WEIGHT BEFORE LOADING THE TRAILER FOR THE FIRST TIME YOU MUST VERIFY ITS CARGO CAPACITY PLUS 1 You MUST WEIGH the EMPTY TRAILER x Gt cand ates MET eid oe WEIGHT OF EMPTY TRAILER the MAXIMUM LOADED TRAILER WEIGHT GVWR see VIN SERIAL NO tag 3 DO NOT LOAD TRAILER BEYOND VERIFIED CARGO CAPACITY To protect you and others against death or serious injury all applicable labels shown must be on the trailer and must be legible If any of these labels are missing or cannot be read contact your dealer for replacement labels 2 2 19 Reporting Safety Defects If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash or could cause injury or death you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA in addition to notifying 4 Star Trailers Inc If NHTSA receives similar complaints it may open an investigation and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles it may order a recall and remedy campaign However NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you your deal
85. y a regular part of your vehicle maintenance routine Recognize that the time you spend is minimal compared with the inconvenience and safety consequences of a flat tire or other tire failure 3 5 1 Safety First Basic Tire Maintenance Properly maintained tires improve the steering stopping traction and load carrying capability of your vehicle Underinflated tires and overloaded vehicles are a major cause of tire failure Therefore as mentioned above to avoid flat tires and other types of tire failure you should maintain proper tire pressure observe tire and vehicle load limits avoid road hazards and regularly inspect your tires 3 5 2 Finding Your Vehicle s Recommended Tire Pressure And Load Limits Tire information placards and vehicle certification labels contain information on tires and load limits These labels indicate the vehicle manufacturer s information including e Recommended tire size e Recommended tire inflation pressure e Vehicle capacity weight VCW the maximum occupant and cargo weight a vehicle is designed to carry e Front and rear gross axle weight ratings GAWR the maximum weight the axle systems are designed to carry e Both placards and certification labels are permanently attached to the trailer near the left front 3 5 3 Understanding Tire Pressure And Load Limits Tire inflation pressure is the level of air in the tire that provides it with load carrying capacity and affects the
86. y have the same air pressure except in cases in which the front and rear tires are supposed to have different amounts of pressure 6 If you have been driving your vehicle and think that a tire is under inflated fill it to the recommended cold inflation pressure indicated on your vehicle s tire information placard or certification label While your tire may still be slightly under inflated due to the extra pounds of pressure in the warm tire it is safer to drive with air pressure that is slightly lower than the vehicle manufacturer s recommended cold inflation pressure than to drive with a significantly under inflated tire Since this is a temporary fix don t forget to recheck and adjust the tire s pressure when you can obtain a cold reading 3 5 6 Tire Size To maintain tire safety purchase new tires that are the same size as the vehicle s original tires or another size recommended by the manufacturer Look at the tire information placard the owner s manual or the sidewall of the tire you are replacing to find this information If you have any doubt about the correct size to choose consult with the tire dealer 3 5 7 Tire Tread The tire tread provides the gripping action and traction that prevent your vehicle from slipping or sliding especially when the road is wet or icy In general tires are not safe and should be replaced when the tread is worn down to 2 32 of an inch Tires have built in tread wear indic
87. your axle and brake manual to see if your brakes adjust automatically If you do not have the axle and brake manual contact your dealer for assistance If your trailer is not fitted with automatically adjusting brakes the brakes will need to be manually adjusted See section 9 for instructions 7 3 Synchronizing Brake Systems Trailer brakes are designed to work in synchronization with the brakes on the tow vehicle When the tow vehicle and trailer braking systems are synchronized both braking systems contribute to slowing and the tongue of the trailer will neither dive nor rise sharply 40 If trailer and tow vehicle brakes do not work properly together death or serious injury can occur Road test the brakes in a safe area at no more than 30 m p h before each tow To insure safe brake performance and synchronization read and follow the axle brake and the brake controller manufacturers instructions If you do not have these instructions contact your dealer for assistance Accessories 8 Accessories This chapter provides some basic information for the safe operation of accessories You must read and follow these instructions before using the accessory If you are uncertain whether you have all of the instructions contact your dealer before operating the accessory 8 1 Accessory Battery Your trailer may be equipped with an accessory battery The battery may be kept charged either by the tow vehicle
88. ystem When replacing a ball the load rating must match or exceed the GVWR of the trailer 9 2 4 2 King Pin And Fifth Wheel Before each tow inspect the fifth wheel and kingpin for wear and coat the contact surface of the fifth wheel plate with water resistant Lithium base grease If you see evidence of wear on the fifth wheel or kingpin immediately have your dealer inspect them to determine the proper action to prevent failure of the fifth wheel and kingpin system When replacing a king pin and fifth wheel the load rating must match or exceed the GVWR of the trailer 9 2 5 Landing Leg Or Jack If a grease fitting is present use a grease gun to lubricate the jack mechanism Grease the gears in the top of hand cranked jacks once a year by removing the top of the jack and pumping or hand packing grease into the gears 9 2 6 Lights And Signals Before each tow check all trailer lights for proper operation 47 To avoid risk of collisions all lights must work 9 2 7 Wheel Rims If the trailer has been struck or impacted on or near the wheels or if the trailer has struck a curb inspect the rims for damage Replace any damaged wheel Inspect the wheels for damage every year even if no obvious impact has occurred 9 2 8 Wheel Bearings A loose worn or damaged wheel bearing is the most common cause of brakes that grab To check your bearings jack up the trailer and secure it on adequate cap

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