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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. Instructions
about safety chains may be provided by the hitch
manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the
manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety
chains and do not attach them to the bumper. 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 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
t r y
to tap into
your vehicle's brake system. If you ldo, 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 as
responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
mxore
you
start, check the trailer hitch and platform
(and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector,
lamps, 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 lamps 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.
Passing
You'll need more passing distance up ahead when
you're towing
a
trailer. And, because you're
a good deal
longer, you'll need to go much farther beyond the
passed vehicle before you can return to your lane.
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