Multiquip Trailers - Manual (Page 11)

trailer • owner's manual — rev. #4 (11/08/13) — page 11
incorrect use of safety Chains
Multiquip trailers are equipped with safety chains so control
of the trailer can still be maintained even if the trailer comes
loose from the hitch. It is important to always connect the
safety chains and for maximum effectiveness, ensure they
are properly rigged.
incorrect use of Breakaway Brake
Multiquip trailers are equipped with a breakaway brake
system that can apply the brakes on your trailer, if for
any reason your trailer comes loose from the hitch. You
will have a separate set of instructions for the breakaway
brake system. The safety chains and breakaway brake
system must be in good condition and properly rigged to
be effective.
warning
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 frame of tow vehicle. Do not fasten
chains to any part of the hitch unless the hitch has
holes or loops specifically for that purpose.
• Cross chains underneath hitch and coupler with
enough slack to permit turning and to hold tongue
up, if the trailer comes loose.
warning
An ineffective or inoperative breakaway brake system
can result in a runaway trailer, leading to death or
serious injury, if the coupler or hitch fails.
The breakaway cable must be connected to the tow
vehicle; and not to any part of the hitch.
Before towing the trailer, test the function of the
breakaway brake system. If the breakaway brake
system is not working, do not tow the trailer; have it
serviced or repaired.
safety guidelines
mismatch of trailer and Hitch
Be sure your hitch and tow vehicle are rated for the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer.
unsafe tires, lug nuts or wheels
Trailer tires and wheels are more likely to fail than car tires
and wheels because they carry a heavier load. Therefore,
it is essential to inspect the trailer tires before each tow.
If a tire has a bald spot, bulge, cuts, is showing any cords,
or is cracked, replace the tire before towing. If a tire has
uneven tread wear, take the trailer to a dealer service
center for diagnosis. Uneven tread wear can be caused
by tire imbalance, axle misalignment or incorrect inflation.
Tires with too little tread will not provide adequate tracking
on wet roadways and can result in loss of control, leading
to death or serious injury.
Improper tire pressure causes an unstable trailer and
can result in a tire blowout and loss of control. Therefore,
before each tow you must also check the tire pressure.
Tire pressure must 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. NOTE: Trailer tires will
be inflated to higher pressures than passenger vehicle tires.
Danger
Use of a hitch with a load rating less than the load rating
of the trailer can result in loss of control and may lead
to death or serious injury.
Use of a tow vehicle with a towing capacity less than
the load rating of the trailer can result in loss of control,
and may lead to death or serious injury..
warning
Improper tire pressure can result in a blowout and loss
of control, which can lead to death or serious injury.
Be sure tires are inflated to pressure indicated on side
wall before towing trailer.