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Safety Chains
You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer.
Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue
will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Follow
the manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety chains.
Always
leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. And, never allow
safety chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
Does your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to read and follow the
instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, adjust and
maintain them properly.
Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try to tap into your vehicle's
brake system. If you do, both brake systems won't work well, or at all.
Driving with a Trailer
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting
out for the open road, you'll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint
yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of
the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is
now a good deal longer and not nearly so responsive as your vehicle is by
itself.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform, safety chains,
electrical connector, lights, tires and mirror adjustment.
If
the trailer has
electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the
trailer brake controller
by
hand to be sure the brakes are working. This
lets you check your electrical connection at the same time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure,
and that the lights and any trailer brakes are still working.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when
driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations
that require heavy braking and sudden turns.
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