Nauticstar Deck Series Owner's Manual page 78

DECK SERIES OWNER'S MANUAL
Allow Considerably More Distance for Stopping
There is considerably more weight to be maneuvered, and even though your trailer is equipped with a braking system, it is
highly likely that additional room will be needed in order to execute slowing or full stops.
Check the Rear-View Mirrors
If not already equipped with them, install outside rear view mirrors on both sides of the tow vehicle. Make it a habit to check
the mirrors at frequent intervals to be sure the trailer and boat are riding properly.
Swing Wider Trailer
Trailer wheels are closer to the inside of turns than the wheels on the tow vehicle. This means swinging wider at curves and
corners will be required to prevent impacts between the trailer and other objects.
Do Not Control Trailer Sway by Using Vehicle Brakes
Especially avoid jamming on the brakes hard. Generally, this type of action makes the sway worsen.
Pay Attention to Wind
Be prepared for sudden changes in air pressure and/or wind buffeting when larger vehicles pass from either direction. Slow
down a little and keep a firm hand on the steering wheel. If the boat is equipped with a Bimini top, the top should be closed.
Avoid Sudden Stops and Starts
Even though the trailer has brakes, a sudden stop can cause it to skid, slide or even jack-knife. (Be especially careful to avoid
the necessity for quick stops while turning.) Smooth, gradual starts and stops will improve gas mileage and put less strain
on the tie-downs, etc.
Signal Your Intentions
Well before stopping, turning, changing lanes, or passing, use turn signals to let other vehicles know what you intend to do.
Drive in Tow Vehicle Manufacturer Recommended Gear
If the tow vehicle has a manual transmission, traveling in lower gears when going up steep hills or over sand, gravel or dirt
roads will ease the load on the engine and transmission. When driving on long downhill grades, try to avoid down-shifting.
Running in a low gear going downhill, which uses the engine as a brake, can actuate the trailer's surge brakes continuously
for the duration of the grade, causing them to over-heat. A better procedure is to slow down before the start of the down
grade and maintain a controlled downhill speed with repeated application and release of tow vehicle (and thus, the trailer)
brakes. This technique permits the brakes to cool down between applications and provides for reserve braking capacity in
an emergency. On moderate and steep sections, down-shifting into lower gears may be unavoidable. Slowing down is
important to allow the brakes to avoid overheating. Don't hesitate to pull over when possible, during or after severe braking
situations and allow the system to cool down. Running a stretch of highway where braking is not necessary is the quickest
way to cool down the brake system because it allows a significant volume of air to flow through the vented rotors and over
the brake pads.
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DECK SERIES P a g e