Four winns 278 VISTA Owner's Manual page 198

The trailer's safety chain/cable length MUST
be set short enough so the actuator's break-
away cable is NOT pulled if the coupler
separates from the tow vehicle's hitch but
remains connected by the safety chains/
cables. The break-away system should only
be activated after BOTH the trailer's coupler
and safety chains/cables have failed and
allowed the trailer to completely separate from
the tow vehicle. Provide just enough slack in
the trailer safety chains/cables to allow short
radius turns. The chains/cables should not
drag on the ground. Safety chains/cables
must be used.
Figure S14: Crossing the Safety Chains/Cables
To reduce the risk of break-away accidents,
be sure coupler is seated and safety chains/
cables crisscrossed before trailering.
Rubber safety chain straps are included on
the "S" hooks to prevent chains/cables from
bouncing off the tow vehicle and must be
used.
10. Retract jack fully and place in trailering or
horizontal position.
11. Check for proper tow vehicle-trailer hookup.
The tow vehicle and trailer should be level with
a positive tongue load. Four Winns
designed with tongue weights between 5% and
10% of the total weight of the boat, fuel, gear
and trailer. The trailer should be close to level.
If unsure of tongue load and trailer position,
consult your Four Winns dealer before proceeding.
Trailer Information - Section S
NOTICE
trailers are
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Be sure the tow vehicle and trailer are level
and have a positive tongue load. This will allow
the brake actuators to function properly on
trailer models having such braking systems.
Be sure to read the manufacturer's literature, included
in the owner's packet, before towing your Four Winns
boat and trailer.
B. Backing Up With Surge Brakes
Follow the steps listed above for hitching the trailer
before backing up.
1. Before backing up a slope or through soft ground,
pull the trailer forward slightly to assure the
actuator socket is in the fully forward position.
2. Back the trailer up.
Avoid sharp turns. This could bend, create
extreme stress or fracture either the actuator
or trailer tongue.
NOTICE
Be sure to check for obstacles or persons
behind the trailer before backing up. Also,
adjust your mirrors for clear view of the area
behind the trailer.
3. If the trailer is to be uncoupled from the tow
vehicle after backing, block all trailer wheels and
pull forward slightly to take strain off the actuator.
Uncouple the actuator by lifting the release handle
and raise the trailer tongue with the jack.
For most trailering conditions, the brake actuator will
allow you to back up normally. However, if the
coupler is not wired or if there is a failure the trailer
can still be backed up by using the manual brake
lockout.
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