This User’s Manual contains safety information and instructions for your trailer.
You must read this manual before loading or towing your trailer.
You must follow all safety precautions and instructions.
H o m e s t e a d e r , L L C
P . O . B o x 1 4 9 7
N e w T a z e w e l l , T N 3 7 8 2 4
P h o n e :
4 2 3 - 6 2 6 - 9 0 4 0
M a i n F a x :
4 2 3 - 5 2 6 - 2 4 8 0
E-mail:
Customer Service:
Web Site:
www.HomesteaderTrailer.com
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Homesteader Owners Manual
CONTENTS
1.
Safety Information ______________________________________ 3
1.1 Safety Alert Symbols and Signal Words 3
Major Hazards 4
Driving Too Fast .................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Failure to Adjust Handling While Towing a Trailer ............................................................................................................ 4
Trailer Not Properly Coupled to the Hitch .......................................................................................................................... 4
Incorrect Use of Safety Chains ............................................................................................................................................ 5
Incorrect Use of Breakaway Brake ...................................................................................................................................... 5
Mismatch of Trailer and Hitch............................................................................................................................................. 6
Unsafe Tires, Lug Nuts or Wheels....................................................................................................................................... 6
Overload .............................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Unsafe Load Distribution .................................................................................................................................................... 8
Shifting Cargo...................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Inappropriate Cargo ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Inoperable Brakes, Lights or Mirrors ................................................................................................................................ 10
Hazards From Modifying Your Trailer.............................................................................................................................. 10
Hazards to Horses (Horse Trailers) ................................................................................................................................... 10
Reporting Safety Defects ................................................................................................................................................... 11
Trailer Towing Guide ........................................................................................................................................................ 12
2.
Coupling to the Tow Vehicle ______________________________ 13
2.1 Use an Adequate Tow Vehicle and Hitch 14
Trailer Information ............................................................................................................................................................ 14
Tow Vehicle ...................................................................................................................................................................... 15
2.2 Coupling and Uncoupling the Trailer 16
Trailer with Ball-Hitch Coupler ......................................................................................................................................... 16
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Trailer with Gooseneck Coupler and Drop-leg Jack .......................................................................................................... 20
Trailer with Fifth-wheel Coupler and Drop-leg Jack ......................................................................................................... 27
3.
Loading the Trailer _____________________________________ 33
3.1 Checking Tongue Weight 35
3.2 Securing the Cargo 35
3.3 Loading Cargo (Enclosed Trailer) 35
Loading Horses (Horse Trailer) ......................................................................................................................................... 37
Loading Cargo (Dump Trailer) .......................................................................................................................................... 39
4.
Checking the Trailer Before and During Each Tow ______________ 39
4.1 Pre-tow Checklist 39
4.2 Make Regular Stops 40
5. Tire Safety Information____________________________________ 40
5.1 Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit – Trailer 41
Trailers 10,000 Pounds GVWR or Less ............................................................................................................................ 41
1.1.2. Trailers Over 10,000 Pounds GVWR (Note: These trailers are not required to have a tire information placard on
the vehicle) ........................................................................................................................................................................ 42
5.2 Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit – Tow Vehicle 42
5.3 Glossary Of Tire Terminology 43
5.4 Tire Safety - Everything Rides On It 47
5.5 Safety First–Basic Tire Maintenance 48
Finding Your Vehicle's Recommended Tire Pressure and Load Limits ............................................................................ 48
Understanding Tire Pressure and Load Limits .................................................................................................................. 48
Checking Tire Pressure ...................................................................................................................................................... 49
Steps for Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure ....................................................................................................................... 49
Tire Size ............................................................................................................................................................................. 50
Tire Tread .......................................................................................................................................................................... 50
Tire Balance and Wheel Alignment ................................................................................................................................... 50
Tire Repair ......................................................................................................................................................................... 50
Tire Fundamentals ............................................................................................................................................................. 50
5.6 Tire Safety Tips 54
6.
Breaking-in a New Trailer ________________________________ 55
6.1. Retighten Lug Nuts at First 10, 25 & 50 Miles 55
6.2. Adjust Brake Shoes at First 200 Miles 55
6.3. Synchronizing the Brake Systems 55
7.
Accessories _________________________________________ 56
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7.1. Gasoline-Powered Electric Generators 56
7.2. Accessory Battery 57
7.3. Shore Power 57
7.4. Vending & Accessory Doors 58
8.
Inspection Service & Maintenance _________________________ 58
8.1. Inspection, Service & Maintenance Summary Charts 58
8.2. Inspection and Service Instructions 62
Axle Bolts, Frame, Suspension, & Structure ..................................................................................................................... 62
Trailer Structure ................................................................................................................................................................. 62
Drop Ramp Torsion Springs .............................................................................................................................................. 63
Trailer Brakes .................................................................................................................................................................... 63
Trailer Connection to Tow Vehicle ................................................................................................................................... 64
Landing Leg or Jack .......................................................................................................................................................... 65
Lights and Signals ............................................................................................................................................................. 65
Accessory Battery .............................................................................................................................................................. 66
Tires ................................................................................................................................................................................... 66
Wheel Rims ....................................................................................................................................................................... 66
Wheels, Bearings and Lug Nuts ........................................................................................................................................ 67
Lug Nuts (Bolts) ................................................................................................................................................................ 67
Hydraulic System .............................................................................................................................................................. 69
9.
Wiring Basics ________________________________________ 72
9.1. Tow Vehicle Wiring 72
9.2. Common Tow Vehicle Problems 72
9.3. Trailer Wiring 73
9.4. Trailer Troubleshooting Basics 73
9.5. Strange Trailer Light Problems 73
1. SAFETY INFORMATION
1.1 SAFETY ALERT SYMBOLS AND SIGNAL WORDS
Loss of control of the trailer or trailer/tow vehicle combination can result in death or serious injury. The most common causes for
loss of control of the trailer are:
Driving too fast for the conditions (maximum speed when towing a trailer is 60 m.p.h.);
Overloading the trailer or loading the trailer unevenly;
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Trailer improperly coupled to the hitch;
Inadequate tow vehicle or towing hitch; No braking on trailer;
Not maintaining proper tire pressure;
Not keeping lug nuts tight; and
Not properly maintaining the trailer structure.
An owner’s manual that provides general trailer information cannot cover all of the specific details necessary for the proper
combination of every trailer, tow vehicle and hitch. Therefore, you must read, understand and follow the instructions given by the
tow vehicle and trailer hitch manufacturers, as well as the instructions in this manual.
Trailer Components:
Our trailers are built with components produced by various manufacturers. Some of these items have separate instruction manuals.
Where this manual indicates that you should read another manual, and you do not have that manual, call Homesteader, LLC at
423-626-9040 for a free copy.
MAJOR HAZARDS
DRIVING TOO FAST
With ideal road conditions, the maximum speed when safely towing a trailer is 60 m.p.h. If you drive too fast, the trailer tires will
overheat and possibly blowout. As your speed increases, you are more likely to suddenly lose control. Never exceed 60 m.p.h.
while towing the trailer.
FAILURE TO ADJUST HANDLING WHILE TOWING A TRAILER
When towing a trailer, you will have decreased acceleration, increased stopping distance, and increased turning radius (which
means you must make wider turns to keep from hitting curbs, vehicles, and anything else that is on the inside corner). In addition,
you will need a longer distance to pass, due to slower acceleration and increased length.
Be alert for slippery conditions. You are more likely to be affected by slippery road surfaces when driving a tow vehicle with
a trailer, than driving a tow vehicle without a trailer.
Anticipate the trailer “swaying.” Swaying is the trailer reaction to the air pressure wave caused by passing trucks and busses.
Continued pulling of the trailer provides a stabilizing force to correct swaying. Do not apply the brakes to correct trailer
swaying.
Check rearview mirrors frequently to observe the trailer and traffic.
Use lower gear when driving down steep or long grades. Use the engine and transmission as a brake. Do not ride the brakes,
as they can overheat and become ineffective.
Be aware of your trailer height, especially when approaching roofed areas and around trees.
TRAILER NOT PROPERLY COUPLED TO THE HITCH
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It is critical that the trailer be securely coupled to the hitch, and that the safety chains are correctly attached. Uncoupling may
result in death or serious injury.
INCORRECT USE OF SAFETY CHAINS
If your trailer comes loose from the hitch for any reason, we have provided safety chains so that control of the trailer can still be
maintained
^ 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.
INCORRECT USE OF BREAKAWAY BRAKE
Your trailer may also be equipped with a breakaway brake system that can apply the brakes on your trailer, if your trailer comes
loose from the hitch for any reason. You will have a separate set of instructions for the breakaway brake if your trailer is so
equipped. The safety chains and breakaway brake system must be in good condition and properly rigged to be effective.
^ 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.
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MISMATCH OF TRAILER AND HITCH
^ 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.
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 m.p.h. before checking tire pressure. NOTE: Trailer tires will be inflated to higher pressures than
passenger vehicle tires.
Since trailer wheels and lug nuts (or bolts) are subjected to greater side loads than automobile wheels, they are more prone to
loosen. Before each tow, check to make sure they are tight.
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^ WARNING
Metal creep between the wheel rim and lug
nuts will cause rim to loosen and could result
in a wheel coming off, leading to death or
serious injury.
Tighten lug nuts before each tow.
The proper tightness (torque) for lug nuts is listed at page 86 in the “Inspection and Service Instructions” chapter of this manual.
Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts. If you do not have a torque wrench, use a lug wrench (from your tow vehicle) and
tighten the nuts as much as you can. Then have a service garage or trailer dealer tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque.
Lug nuts are also prone to loosen after first being assembled. When driving a new trailer (or after wheels have been remounted),
check to make sure they are tight after the first 10, 25 and 50 miles of driving and before each tow thereafter.
Failure to perform this check can result in a wheel parting from the trailer and a crash, leading to death or serious injury.
^ WARNING
Lug nuts are prone to loosen after initial
installation, which can lead to death or serious
injury.
Check lug nuts for tightness on a new trailer
or when wheel(s) have been remounted after
the first 10, 25 and 50 miles of driving.
^ WARNING
Improper lug nut torque can cause a wheel
parting from the trailer, leading to death or
serious injury.
Be sure lug nuts are tight before each tow.
OVERLOAD
The total weight of the load you put in or on the trailer, plus the empty weight of the trailer itself, must not exceed the trailer's
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). If you do not know the empty weight of the trailer, you must measure it at a commercial
scale. In addition, you must distribute the load in the trailer such that the load on any tire or axle does not exceed the tire load
rating or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
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^ WARNING
An overloaded trailer can result in loss of
control of the trailer, leading to death or
serious injury.
Do not exceed the trailer Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR) or an axle Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR).
Do not load a trailer so that the weight on any
tire exceeds its rating.
UNSAFE LOAD DISTRIBUTION
Uneven load distribution can cause tire, wheel, axle or structural failure. Be sure your trailer is properly loaded.
A proper weight distribution is equal, right to left; and creates a tongue weight that is in the proper range for stable trailer handling.
For tandem and triple axle trailers, it is necessary to know or check that no axle is overloaded.
In the table below, the second column notes the rule of thumb percentage of total weight of the trailer plus its cargo (Gross Vehicle
Weight, or “GVW”) that should appear on the tongue of the trailer. For example, a trailer with a gooseneck hitch, with a loaded
weight of 12,000 pounds, should have 20-25% of 12,000 pounds on the tongue. That is, the example trailer would have 2,400 to
3,000 pounds on its tongue.
Tongue Weight as a Percentage of Loaded Trailer Weight
Type of Hitch
Percentage
Ball Hitch (or Bumper Hitch)
10–15%
Gooseneck Hitch
20–25%
Fifth Wheel Hitch
20–25%
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^ WARNING
Improper tongue weight (load distribution) can
result in loss of control of the trailer, leading to
death or serious injury.
Make certain that tongue weight is within the
allowable range.
Be sure to:
Distribute the load front-to-rear to
provide proper tongue weight (see
chart);
Distribute the load evenly, right and left,
to avoid tire overload; and
Keep the center of gravity low.
Towing stability also depends on keeping the center of gravity as low as possible. Load heavy items on the floor, and over the
axles, but do not exceed the axle load rating (GAWR). When loading additional items, be sure to maintain even side-to-side
weight distribution and proper tongue weight.
SHIFTING CARGO
Since the trailer “ride” can be bumpy and rough, you must secure your cargo so that it does not shift while the trailer is being
towed.
If the door latch is equipped with a catch that has a hole for a linchpin, use a linchpin to prevent the door latch from opening. If
the door opens, your cargo may be ejected onto the road.
INAPPROPRIATE CARGO
Your trailer may be designed for specific cargo, for example, only for horses. If your trailer is designed for specific cargo, only
carry that cargo in the trailer. A utility trailer must not be used to carry certain items, such as people, containers of hazardous
substances or containers of flammable substances.
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^ WARNING
Do not transport flammable, explosive,
poisonous or other dangerous materials in
your trailer.
Exceptions:
Fuel in the tanks of vehicles that are
being towed
Fuel stored in proper containers used
in trailer living quarters for cooking
Fuel stored in the tank of an on-board
generator
INOPERABLE BRAKES, LIGHTS OR MIRRORS
Be sure that the electric brakes and all of the lights on your trailer are functioning properly before towing your trailer. Electric
brakes and lights on a trailer are controlled via a connection to the tow vehicle, generally a multi-pin electrical connector. Check
the trailer tail lights by turning on your tow vehicle headlights. Check the trailer brake lights by having someone step on the tow
vehicle brake pedal while you look at trailer lights. Do the same thing to check the turn signal lights.
If your trailer has electric brakes, your tow vehicle will have an electric brake controller that sends power to the trailer brakes.
Before towing the trailer on the road, you must operate the brake controller while trying to pull the trailer in order to confirm that
the electric brakes operate. While towing the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h., manually operate the electric brake controller in the tow
vehicle cab. You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes.
Standard mirrors usually do not provide adequate visibility for viewing traffic to the sides and rear of a towed trailer. You must
provide mirrors that allow you to safely observe approaching traffic.
HAZARDS FROM MODIFYING YOUR TRAILER
Essential safety items can be damaged by altering your trailer. Even simply driving a nail or screw to hang something can damage
an electrical circuit or other feature of the trailer.
Before making any alteration to your trailer, contact your dealer or Homesteader, LLC. at 423-626-9040 and describe the alteration
you are contemplating. Alteration of the trailer structure or modification of mechanical, electrical, heating or other systems on
your trailer must be performed only by qualified technicians who are familiar with the system as installed on your trailer.
HAZARDS TO HORSES (HORSE TRAILERS)
Before hauling a horse, you must be aware of its temperament.
The layout of a horse trailer is designed to safely contain your horse. The trailer is equipped with stall dividers and tie rings to
secure the horse, and has a Rumber floor. Restraining a horse without using a combination of a tie-strap and stall dividers may
result in serious injury or death to the horse.
Before loading your horse, inspect the interior of the horse trailer to insure that no hazards are present. Read the “Loading the
Horse Trailer” section at page 36 of this manual for specific instructions regarding trailering of horses.
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HAZARDS FROM ACCESSORIES
The “Accessories” chapter of this manual contains some information about certain optional accessories that may be on your
trailer. Read and follow all of these instructions before operating the accessories. The major hazards from some of these
accessories are:
SHORE POWER
“Shore Power” is the name given to connecting your trailer to a source of electrical power using an extension cord specifically
designed for that purpose.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform
the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying us. If NHTSA receives similar complaints,
it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy
campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Homesteader, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153) go to
http://www.safecar.gov: or write to: Administrator NHTSA, 1200 Jersey Avenue S.E. Washington, DC 20590. You can also
obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http://www.safecar.gov.
Figure 1-1 Warning Labels
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Figure 1-2 Warning Labels
^ WARNING
To protect you and others against death or
serious injury, all of the labels shown above
must be on the trailer and must be legible.
If any of these labels are missing or cannot be
read, call Homesteader, LLC. at 423-626-
9040 for free replacement labels.
You will need to provide us with the number
shown at the bottom of the label(s) in order for
us to send the correct one(s).
TRAILER TOWING GUIDE
Driving a vehicle with a trailer in tow is vastly different from driving the same vehicle without a trailer in tow. Acceleration,
maneuverability and braking are all diminished with a trailer in tow. It takes longer to get up to speed, you need more room to turn
and pass, and more distance to stop when towing a trailer. You will need to spend time adjusting to the different feel and
maneuverability of the tow vehicle with a loaded trailer. Because of the significant differences in all aspects of maneuverability
when towing a trailer, the hazards and risks of injury are also much greater than when driving without a trailer. You are
responsible for keeping your vehicle and trailer in control, and for all the damage that is caused if you lose control of your vehicle
and trailer.
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Safe Trailer Towing Guidelines
Recheck the load tie downs to make sure the load will not shift during towing.
Before towing, check coupling, safety chain, safety brake, tires, wheels and lights.
Check the lug nuts or bolts for tightness.
Check coupler tightness after towing 50 miles.
Adjust the brake controller to engage the trailer brakes before the tow vehicle brakes. Your dealer can make this adjustment.
Use your mirrors to verify that you have room to change lanes or pull into traffic.
Use your turn signals well in advance.
Allow plenty of stopping space for your trailer and tow vehicle.
Do not drive so fast that the trailer begins to sway due to speed. Never drive faster than 60 m.p.h.
Allow plenty of room for passing. A rule of thumb is that the passing distance with a trailer is 4 times the passing distance
without a trailer.
Shift your automatic transmission into a lower gear for city driving.
Use lower gears for climbing and descending grades.
Do not ride the brakes while descending grades, they may get so hot that they stop working. Then you will potentially have a
runaway tow vehicle and trailer.
To conserve fuel, don't use full throttle to climb a hill. Instead, build speed on the approach.
Slow down for bumps in the road. Take your foot off the brake when crossing the bump.
Do not brake while in a curve unless absolutely necessary. Instead, slow down before you enter the curve and power through
the curve. This way, the towing vehicle remains in charge.
Do not apply the brakes to correct extreme trailer swaying. Continued pulling of the trailer, and even slight acceleration, will
provide a stabilizing force.
Make regular stops, about once each hour. Confirm that
the coupler is secure to the hitch and is locked,
electrical connections are made,
there is appropriate slack in the safety chains,
there is appropriate slack in the breakaway switch pull pin cable,
the tires are not visibly low on pressure, and
the cargo is secure and in good condition.
2. COUPLING TO THE TOW VEHICLE
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Follow all of the safety precautions and instructions in this manual to ensure safety of persons, cargo, and satisfactory life of the
trailer.
2.1 USE AN ADEQUATE TOW VEHICLE AND HITCH
If the vehicle or hitch is not properly selected and matched to the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer, you can
cause an accident that could lead to death or serious injury. If you already have a tow vehicle, know your vehicle tow rating and
make certain the trailer’s rated capacity is less than or equal to the tow vehicle’s rated towing capacity. If you already have (or
plan to buy) a trailer, make certain that the tow rating of the tow vehicle is equal to or greater than that of the trailer.
TRAILER INFORMATION
The trailer VIN tag contains the following critical safety information for the use of your trailer.
GAWR: The maximum gross weight that an axle can support. It is the lowest of axle, wheel, or tire rating. Usually, the tire or
wheel rating is lower than the axle rating, and determines GAWR.
GVWR: The maximum allowable gross weight of the trailer and its contents. The gross weight of the trailer includes the weight
of the trailer and all of the items within it (such as cargo, water, food and other supplies). GVWR is sometimes referred to as
GTWR (Gross Trailer Weight Rating), or MGTW (Maximum Gross Trailer Weight). GVWR, GTWR and MGTW are all the
same rating.
The sum total of the GAWR for all trailer axles may be less than the GVWR for the trailer, because some of the trailer load is to be
carried by the tow vehicle, rather than by the trailer axle(s). The total weight of the cargo and trailer must not exceed the GVWR,
and the load on an axle must not exceed its GAWR.
PSIC: The tire pressure (Pounds per Square Inch) measured when Cold.
VIN: The Vehicle Identification Number.
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TOW VEHICLE
When equipping a new vehicle or an older vehicle to tow your trailer, ask the vehicle dealer for advice on how to outfit the towing
vehicle. Discuss the following information and equipment with the vehicle dealer.
Overall Carrying and Towing Capacity of Vehicle
Vehicle manufacturers will provide you with the maximum capacities of their various models. No amount of reinforcement will
give a 100 horsepower, 2,500 pound truck the towing capacity that a 300 horsepower, 5,000 pound truck has.
Towing Hitch
The towing hitch attached to your tow vehicle must have a capacity equal to or greater than the load rating of the trailer you intend
to tow. The hitch capacity must also be matched to the tow vehicle capacity. Only your vehicle dealer can provide and install the
proper hitch on your tow vehicle.
Suspension System
Sway bars, shock absorbers, heavy duty springs, heavy duty tires and other suspension components must be able to sufficiently
serve the size and weight of the trailer that is going to be towed.
Brake Controller
The brake controller is part of the tow vehicle and is essential in the operation of the electric brakes on the trailer. Homesteader,
LLC. provides electric brakes on trailers with a GVWR of 3,000 pounds or more. The brake controller is not the same as the
safety breakaway brake system that may be equipped on the trailer.
Side View Mirrors
The size of the trailer that is being towed and your state law regulations determine the size of the mirrors. However, some states
prohibit extended mirrors on a tow vehicle, except while a trailer is actually being towed. In this situation, detachable extended
mirrors are necessary. Check with your dealer or the appropriate state agency for mirror requirements.
Heavy Duty Flasher
A Heavy Duty Flasher is an electrical component that may be required when your trailer turn signal lights are attached to the tow
vehicle flasher circuit.
Electrical Connector
An Electrical Connector connects the light and brake systems on the trailer to the light and brake controls on the towing vehicle.
Heavy Duty Engine Oil Cooling System
The tow vehicle engine works harder when a trailer is being towed. Depending on the size of the trailer, you may need to install a
separate engine oil cooler. Inadequate cooling may result in sudden engine failure. Ask the tow vehicle dealer if it is necessary to
install a heavy duty cooling system.
Automatic Transmission Oil Cooler
The automatic transmission of a towing vehicle handles more power when a trailer is being towed. Inadequate cooling will
shorten transmission life, and may result in sudden transmission failure. Ask the tow vehicle dealer if it is necessary to install a
separate oil cooler for the automatic transmission.
Fire Extinguisher
It is sensible to have a fire extinguisher in the tow vehicle.
Emergency Flares and Emergency Triangle Reflectors
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It is wise to carry these warning devices even if you are not towing a trailer. It is particularly important to have these when towing
a trailer because the hazard flashers of your towing vehicle will not operate for as long a period of time when the battery is running
both the trailer lights and tow vehicle lights.
2.2 COUPLING AND UNCOUPLING THE TRAILER
A secure coupling (or fastening) of the trailer to the tow vehicle is essential. A loss of coupling may result in death or serious
injury. Therefore, you must understand and follow all of the instructions for coupling.
The following parts are involved in making a secure coupling between the trailer and tow vehicle:
Coupler: A device on the tongue of the trailer that connects to the hitch on the tow vehicle.
Hitch: A device on the tow vehicle that supports the weight of the trailer tongue and pulls the trailer. The coupler attaches to the
hitch.
Safety chains: If the coupler connection comes loose, the safety chains can keep the trailer attached to the tow vehicle. With
properly rigged safety chains, it is possible to keep the tongue of the trailer from digging into the road pavement, even if the
coupler-to-hitch connection comes apart.
Trailer lighting (and braking) connector: A device that connects electrical power from the tow vehicle to the trailer. Electricity is
used to turn on brake lights, running lights, and turn signals as required. In addition, if your trailer has a separate braking system,
the electrical connector will also supply power to the brakes from the tow vehicle.
Breakaway switch: If the coupler connection comes loose, the breakaway switch can actuate emergency electrical brakes on the
trailer. The breakaway switch must be rigged to the tow vehicle with appropriate slack that will activate the switch if the coupler
connection comes loose.
Jack: A device on the trailer that is used to raise and lower the coupler. The jack is sometimes called the “landing gear.”
VARIOUS COUPLER DESIGNS
Trailers are produced with a variety of coupler devices. One of the sections below will pertain to your trailer.
Ball Hitch Coupler
Gooseneck Hitch Coupler
TRAILER WITH BALL-HITCH COUPLER
A ball hitch coupler connects to a ball that is located on or under the rear bumper of tow vehicle. This system of coupling a trailer
to a tow vehicle is sometimes referred to as “bumper pull.”
A ball hitch trailer may be fitted with a tongue jack that can raise and lower the coupler. The tongue jack is mounted to the A-
frame (front, or tongue) part of the trailer. By rotating the jack handle clockwise, the jack will extend and raise the tongue of the
trailer.
We have utilized a Ball Hitch coupler that is suitable for the size and weight of the trailer. The load rating of the coupler and the
necessary ball size are listed on the trailer tongue. You must provide a hitch and ball for your tow vehicle, where the load rating of
the hitch and ball is equal to or greater than that of your trailer. Also, the ball size must be the same as the coupler size. If the
17
hitch ball is too small, too large, is underrated, is loose or is worn, the trailer can come loose from the tow vehicle, and may cause
death or serious injury.
THE TOW VEHICLE, HITCH AND BALL MUST HAVE A RATED TOWING CAPACITY EQUAL TO OR GREATER
THAN THE TRAILER Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE HITCH BALL BE OF THE SAME SIZE AS THE COUPLER.
The ball size and load rating (capacity) are marked on the ball; hitch capacity is marked on the hitch.
BEFORE COUPLING THE TRAILER TO THE TOW VEHICLE
Be sure the size and rating of hitch ball match the size and rating of the coupler. Hitch balls and couplers are marked with their
size and rating.
Wipe the hitch ball clean and inspect it visually and by feel for flat spots, cracks and pits.
^ WARNING
A worn, cracked or corroded hitch ball can fail
while towing, and may result in death or
serious injury.
Before coupling trailer, inspect the hitch ball
for wear, corrosion and cracks.
Replace worn or damaged hitch ball.
Rock the ball to make sure it is tight to the hitch, and visually check that the hitch ball nut is solid against the lock washer and
hitch frame.
Wipe the inside and outside of the coupler clean and inspect it visually for cracks and deformations; feel the inside of the
coupler for worn spots and pits.
Be sure the coupler is tight to the tongue of the trailer. All coupler fasteners must be visibly solid against the trailer frame.
^ WARNING
A loose hitch ball nut can result in uncoupling,
leading to death or serious injury.
Be sure the hitch ball is tight to the hitch
before coupling the trailer.
Raise the bottom surface of the coupler with the jack to be above the top of the hitch ball.
18
PREPARE THE COUPLER AND HITCH
Lubricate the hitch ball and the inside of the coupler with a thin layer of automotive bearing grease. Using the jack raise the
coupler above the ball height.
Open the coupler locking mechanism. Ball couplers have a locking mechanism with an internal moving piece and an outside
handle.
In the open position, the coupler is able to drop fully onto the hitch ball.
See the coupler instructions for details of placing the coupler in the “open” position.
Slowly back up the tow vehicle so that the hitch ball is near or aligned under the coupler, if the trailer jack has raised the
coupler.
COUPLE THE TRAILER TO THE TOW VEHICLE
Lower the trailer until the coupler fully engages the hitch ball. If the coupler does not line up with the hitch ball, adjust the
position of the tow vehicle.
Engage the coupler locking mechanism. In the engaged position, the locking mechanism securely holds the coupler to the
hitch ball.
Insert a pin or lock through the hole in the locking mechanism.
Be sure the coupler is all the way on the hitch ball and the locking mechanism is engaged. A properly engaged locking
mechanism will allow the coupler to raise the rear of the tow vehicle. Using the trailer jack, test to see that you can raise the
rear of the tow vehicle by 1 inch, after the coupler is locked to the hitch
If the coupler cannot be secured to the hitch ball, do not tow the trailer. Call your dealer for assistance.
Lower the trailer so that its entire tongue weight is held by the hitch, and continue retracting the jack to its fully retracted
position.
RIG THE SAFETY CHAINS
Visually inspect the safety chains and hooks for wear or damage. Replace worn or damaged safety chains and hooks before
towing.
Rig the safety chains so that they: cross underneath the coupler;
loop around a frame member of the tow vehicle or to holes provided in the hitch system (but, do not attach them to an
interchangeable part of the hitch assembly); and have enough slack to permit tight turns, but not be close to the road surface, so if
the trailer uncouples, the safety chains can hold the tongue up above the road.
ATTACH AND TEST ELECTRIC BREAKAWAY BRAKE SYSTEM
Trailers greater than 3000 GVWR are equipped with either electric brakes or hydraulic surge brakes. All electric brake units are
equipped with an electric breakaway brake system. A properly connected and working electric breakaway brake system will apply
the electric brakes on the trailer if the trailer should become separated from the tow vehicle.
The breakaway brake system includes a battery, a switch with a pull pin on a lanyard/cable. Read and follow the instructions here
as well as the instructions that have been prepared by the breakaway kit manufacturer.
19
The breakaway brake system may be fitted with a charging facility that draws power from the tow vehicle. If the electrical system
on your tow vehicle does not provide power to the breakaway brake battery, you must periodically charge the battery to keep the
breakaway brake system in working order.
Connect the pull pin cable to the tow vehicle so that the pull pin will be pulled out before all of the slack in the safety chains is
taken up. Do not connect the pull pin cable to a safety chain or to the hitch ball or hitch ball assembly. This would keep the
breakaway brake system from operating when it is needed.
Remove the pull pin from the switch and test tow the trailer, at less than 5 m.p.h. You should feel the trailer resisting being
towed, but the wheels will not necessarily be locked. If the brakes do not function, do not tow the trailer until brakes are
repaired.
Immediately replace the pull pin. The breakaway brake system battery discharges rapidly when the pull pin is removed.
Do not tow the trailer with the breakaway brake system ON because the brakes will overheat which can result in permanent brake
failure.
^ WARNING
Failure to replace the pull pin will prevent
brakes from working, leading to loss of
control, serious injury or death.
If you do not use your trailer for three or more months, or during winter months:
Store the battery indoors; and
Charge the battery every three months.
Replace the breakaway brake battery according to the battery at intervals specified by manufacturer.
CONNECT THE ELECTRICAL CABLES
Connect the trailer lights to the tow vehicle's electrical system using the electrical connectors.
Check all lights for proper operation.
Clearance and Running Lights (Turn on tow vehicle headlights).
Brake Lights (Step on tow vehicle brake pedal).
Turn Signals (Operate tow vehicle directional signal lever).
Check electric brakes for proper operation
If your trailer has electric brakes, your tow vehicle should have an electric brake controller that sends power to the trailer brakes.
Before towing the trailer on the road, you must operate the brake controller while trying to pull the trailer in order to confirm that
the electric brakes operate. While towing the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h., manually operate the electric brake controller in the tow
vehicle cab. You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes.
20
^ WARNING
Improper electrical connection between the
tow vehicle and the trailer will result in
inoperable lights and electric brakes, and can
lead to collision.
Before each tow:
Check that the taillights, brake lights
and turn signals work
Check that the electric brakes work by
operating the brake controller inside
the tow vehicle
UNCOUPLING THE BALL HITCH TRAILER WITH TONGUE JACK
Follow these steps to uncouple your ball hitch trailer from the tow vehicle:
Block trailer tires to prevent the trailer from rolling, before jacking the trailer up.
Disconnect the electrical connector.
Disconnect the breakaway brake switch cable. Promptly replace the pull pin in the switchbox.
Disconnect the safety chains from the tow vehicle.
Unlock the coupler and open it.
Before extending jack, make certain the ground surface below the jack pad will support the tongue load.
Rotate the jack handle (or crank) clockwise. This will slowly extend the jack and transfer the weight of the trailer tongue to the
jack.
TRAILER WITH GOOSENECK COUPLER AND DROP-LEG JACK
A gooseneck coupler on the trailer connects to a gooseneck ball that you must have installed in the bed of the tow vehicle. This
system of coupling a trailer to a tow vehicle permits the tow vehicle to turn to sharper angles than are permitted by a bumper hitch
system. A gooseneck coupler consists of a tube in an inverted “U” shape and a gooseneck ball receiver.
We have utilized a Gooseneck ball receiver that is suitable for the size and weight of the trailer. The load rating of the coupler and
the necessary ball size are listed on the gooseneck.
21
You must provide a gooseneck ball and support structure that is marked with a rating that meets or exceeds the GVW Rating of
your trailer and matches the size of the gooseneck ball receiver. If the gooseneck ball is too small, is underrated, is loose or is
worn, the trailer can come loose from the tow vehicle, and may lead to death or serious injury.
THE TOW VEHICLE, SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND GOOSENECK BALL MUST HAVE A RATED TOWING CAPACITY
EQUAL TO OR GREATER THAN THE TRAILER Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE GOOSENECK BALL BE OF THE SAME SIZE AS THE GOOSENECK BALL RECEIVER.
^ WARNING
Coupler-to-hitch mismatch can result in
uncoupling, leading to death or serious injury.
Be sure the LOAD RATING of the hitch ball is
equal or greater than the load rating of the
coupler.
Be sure the SIZE of the hitch ball matches the
size of the coupler.
The height of the ball receiver on the trailer must be adjusted to match the height of the gooseneck ball on your tow vehicle, so
that: There is clearance between the bottom of the trailer and the sides of the tow vehicle bed; and the trailer is level and allows
equal weight distribution on tandem axles.
The gooseneck height adjustment bolts, which have a “cup” that makes a gripping impression into the gooseneck tube, must be
tight so that the trailer does not drop to a lower position. Do not over-tighten because the tube can be deformed. After tightening
the bolts, tighten the jam nuts on the bolts.
^ WARNING
Improper gooseneck height adjustment can
result in overloaded tires, blowout and loss of
control, leading to death or serious injury.
Adjust the gooseneck receiver so that the
loaded trailer is level.
Before attempting to tow the trailer:
Be sure the size and rating of the gooseneck ball match the size and rating of the receiver. Gooseneck balls and receivers are
marked with their size and ratings.
Wipe the gooseneck ball clean and inspect it visually and by feeling for flat spots, cracks and pits.
22
^ WARNING
A worn, cracked or corroded gooseneck ball
can fail while towing, and may result in death
or serious injury.
Before coupling the trailer, inspect the
gooseneck ball for wear, corrosion and
cracks; and replace worn or damaged
gooseneck ball.
Rock the ball to make sure it is tight to the ball support, and visually check that the gooseneck ball nut is solid against the lock
washer and ball support frame.
Wipe the inside and outside of the receiver clean and inspect it visually for cracks; and feel the inside of the receiver for worn
spots and pits. If any of these conditions exist, have the receiver replaced before coupling the trailer.
Lubricate the inside of the gooseneck ball receiver with automotive bearing grease.
Be sure the receiver is tight to the trailer. All receiver fasteners must be visibly solid against the trailer frame.
Release the jack handle or crank from its holder.
Make certain the ground beneath the jack foot is firm enough to support the tongue weight.
Rotate the handle/crank clockwise to raise the bottom surface of the gooseneck to be above the top of the gooseneck ball.
PREPARE THE BALL RECEIVER AND GOOSENECK BALL
Release the lock plate on the gooseneck ball receiver. With the spring-loaded lock plate locking pin in the OPEN position,
rotate the lock plate to a position that allows the gooseneck ball to enter the receiver.
Slowly back up the tow vehicle so that the gooseneck ball is aligned under the gooseneck ball receiver.
^ WARNING
If the trailer drops during coupling, death or
serious injury may result.
There must be no one under the trailer or
coupler before or during the coupling
operation.
COUPLE THE TRAILER TO THE TOW VEHICLE
Rotate the jack handle counter-clockwise. This will retract the jack causing the gooseneck ball receiver to drop down so it can
fully engage the gooseneck ball and transfer the weight of the trailer tongue to the towing vehicle hitch. If the receiver does
not line up with the ball, raise the receiver again and adjust the position of the tow vehicle. Then lower the receiver over the
23
ball. When the drop leg base is no longer resting on the ground, the towing vehicle hitch is holding all of the weight of the
trailer tongue.
Close the lock plate on the gooseneck ball receiver.
Move the spring-loaded lock plate locking pin to the CLOSED position. Be sure the locking pin is holding the lock plate.
Be sure the receiver is all the way on the gooseneck ball and the lock plate is engaged. A properly engaged locking
mechanism will allow the coupler to raise the rear of the tow vehicle. Using the trailer jack, test to see that you can raise the
rear of the tow vehicle by 1 inch.
If the gooseneck ball cannot be secured to the receiver, do not tow the trailer.
After testing to see that the receiver is properly secured and locked to the ball, retract the jack to its fully retracted position.
Return the drop legs to their upper positions. The drop legs are held in the lowered position with a plunger pin. Rotating the
plunger pin while pulling it outward will cause it to come out of engagement with the drop leg and the leg will rapidly rise.
^ Caution
The drop legs are heavily spring loaded in
the lowered position. They will rapidly return
to the upper position when released and can
inflict serious bruises, scrapes or pinching.
Keep your feet, shins and hands well clear of
the drop legs and drop leg bases when
releasing the drop legs.
Always wear shoes or boots while
performing this operation
RIG THE SAFETY CHAINS
Visually inspect the safety chains and hooks for wear or damage. Replace worn or damaged safety chains and hooks before
towing.
Rig the safety chains so that they attach to the “safety chain receivers” on the hitch. If you are not certain of the hitch provisions
for receiving safety chains, contact the hitch manufacturer or installer. Do NOT attach the safety chains to the gooseneck ball or
its support; and Rig the safety chains so they have sufficient slack to permit turning, but not too much slack – the safety chains
must keep the gooseneck on the tow vehicle bed if the trailer uncouples.
24
^ 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 safety chain receivers
on the hitch, not to ball.
Have sufficient slack to permit turning
and to keep gooseneck on bed of
trailer, if the trailer comes loose.
ATTACH AND TEST THE BREAKAWAY BRAKE SYSTEM
If the coupler or hitch fails, a properly connected and working breakaway brake system will apply electric brakes on the trailer.
The safety chains will keep the tow vehicle attached and as the brakes are applied at the trailer’s axles, the trailer/tow vehicle
combination will come to a controlled stop.
The breakaway brake system includes a battery, a switch with a pull pin, and a breakaway brake controller. Read and follow the
instructions here as well as the instructions that have been prepared by the breakaway brake controller manufacturer.
The breakaway brake system may be fitted with a charging facility that draws power from the tow vehicle. If the electrical system
on your tow vehicle does not provide power to the breakaway brake battery you must periodically charge the battery on the trailer
to keep the breakaway brake system in working order.
Visually inspect the breakaway brake system for broken parts.
Connect the pull pin cable to the tow vehicle so that the pull pin will be pulled out before all of the slack in the safety chains is
taken up. Do not connect the pull pin cable to a safety chain or a safety chain receiver or to the gooseneck ball or its support.
This would keep the breakaway brake system from operating when it is needed. Contact the hitch manufacturer or installer if
you are not certain of the hitch provisions for breakaway brake connection
Remove the pull pin from the switch and test tow the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h. You should feel the trailer resisting being
towed, but the wheels will not necessarily be locked.
Immediately replace the pull pin. The breakaway brake system battery discharges rapidly when the pull pin is removed.
25
^ 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.
Connect the breakaway cable to the tow
vehicle; and NOT to the safety chain, safety
chain receiver, gooseneck ball or gooseneck
ball support.
Test the function of the breakaway brake
system before towing the trailer. Do not tow
the trailer if the breakaway brake system is
not working. Have it serviced or repaired.
Do not tow the trailer with the breakaway brake system ON because the brakes will overheat which can result in permanent brake
failure.
If you do not use your trailer for three or more months, or during winter months:
Store the battery indoors; and Charge the battery every three months.
Replace the breakaway brake battery at intervals recommended by the battery manufacturer’s instructions.
CONNECT THE ELECTRICAL CABLES
Connect the trailer lights to the tow vehicle's electrical system using the electrical connectors.
Check all lights for proper operation:
Clearance and Running Lights (Turn on tow vehicle headlights).
Brake Lights (Step on tow vehicle brake pedal).
Turn Signals (Operate tow vehicle directional signal lever).
Check electric brakes for proper operation
If your trailer has electric brakes, your tow vehicle will have an electric brake controller that sends power to the trailer brakes.
Before towing the trailer on the road, you must operate the brake controller while trying to pull the trailer in order to confirm that
the electric brakes operate. While towing the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h., manually operate the electric brake controller in the tow
vehicle cab. You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes.
UNCOUPLING THE GOOSENECK TRAILER WITH DROP-LEG JACK
Follow these steps to uncouple your gooseneck hitch trailer from the tow vehicle:
Block trailer tires to prevent the trailer from rolling, before jacking the trailer up
Disconnect the electrical connector.
26
Disconnect the breakaway brake switch cable. Promptly replace the pin in the switchbox.
Disconnect the safety chains from the tow vehicle.
Move the spring-loaded gooseneck receiver lock plate locking pin to the OPEN position.
Rotate the lock plate to a position that permits the gooseneck ball to exit the receiver.
Before releasing drop leg jack, make certain ground surface below jack base will support the trailer tongue load.
Rotate the drop leg plunger pin handle so that the plunger pin is released from the drop leg.
Push down on the drop leg base with your foot to place a drop leg to the desired lowered position.
Rotate the plunger pin handle so that the plunger pin is attempting to engage the drop leg.
Slowly raise your foot, permitting the drop leg to raise. The plunger pin will engage a hole in the drop leg.
^ Caution
The drop legs are heavily spring loaded in
the lowered position. They will rapidly return
to the upper position when released and can
inflict serious bruises, scrapes or pinching.
Keep your feet, shins and hands well clear of
the drop legs and drop leg bases when
releasing the drop legs.
Always wear shoes or boots while
performing this operation
Be sure the plunger pin is fully engaged. Push it in by hand if necessary. The bent part of the plunger pin handle must be
touching the plunger pin housing.
If your trailer has two drop leg jacks, lower them both to the same level, following the above instructions.
^ Notice
If the drop legs are not set at the same level, one
of the drop leg jacks can be overloaded and can be
damaged.
Release the handle (or crank) from its holder and engage it with the jack shaft.
27
Rotate the handle (or crank) from its hold and engage it with the jack shaft.
Rotate the handle (or crank) clockwise to slowly extend the jack and transfer the weight of the trailer tongue to the jack.
On two speed jacks, pushing the handle shaft toward the gearbox can perform rapid extension. This shifts the gearbox into a
high speed mode.
When the drop leg base contacts the ground, shift the gearbox into low speed mode by pulling out on the handle shaft until it
locks into low gear.
Continue to extend the jack(s), making sure that the ground is providing stable and level support for the trailer.
After the jack(s) are extended and the gooseneck ball receiver is well clear of the gooseneck ball, to permit driving the tow vehicle
away, disengage the handle from its shaft and return to its holder.
TRAILER WITH FIFTH-WHEEL COUPLER AND DROP-LEG JACK
A fifth wheel coupler on the trailer connects to a kingpin that you must have installed in the bed of the tow vehicle. This system of
coupling a trailer to a tow vehicle has a greater tongue weight capacity than a ball hitch or gooseneck coupling.
A fifth wheel coupler includes a flat load-bearing plate with a slot, and a mechanism inside the slot that “grips” the kingpin.
We have utilized a fifth wheel coupler that is suitable for the size and weight of the trailer. You must provide a kingpin and
kingpin plate that match the fifth wheel, and that is rated for the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer.
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO TOW THE TRAILER
Be sure the size and rating of the fifth wheel and kingpin match.
Wipe the kingpin clean and inspect it visually and by feeling for flat spots, cracks and pits. Check the condition of the kingpin
mounting in the bed of the tow vehicle.
^ WARNING
A worn, bent, cracked or corroded kingpin can
fail while towing, and may result in death or
serious injury.
Before coupling the trailer, inspect the kingpin
and kingpin plate for wear, bending, cracks or
corrosion; and replace worn or damaged
kingpin.
Be sure the fifth wheel mechanism operates freely.
Lubricate the fifth wheel plate surface with a light coat of Lithium-base, waterproof grease.
Be sure the fifth wheel and kingpin fasteners are tight and any welds are solid.
28
^ WARNING
A loose fifth wheel or kingpin can result in
uncoupling, leading to death or serious injury.
Be sure the fifth wheel and kingpin are tight
before coupling the trailer.
Be sure the brake line, electrical line, and any other lines are clear of the coupling area.
Be sure the locks are open.
If the tow vehicle is equipped with a tailgate, lower it.
Block the trailer wheels, front and rear.
Make certain that trailer fifth wheel plate is slightly above the kingpin plate on the tow vehicle.
Back tow vehicle up close to the trailer, centering the kingpin in the slot of the fifth wheel.
STOP before engaging the coupling.
^ WARNING
If the trailer drops during coupling, death or
serious injury may result.
There must be no one under the trailer or
coupler before or during the coupling
operation.
Adjust the height of the trailer, using the jack, so that the fifth wheel plate just touches the kingpin plate.
Slowly back up the tow vehicle, keeping the kingpin centered in the slot of the fifth wheel. Continue backing up until the fifth
wheel locks firmly on the kingpin.
Visually check to confirm that the fifth wheel locks are properly locked onto the kingpin.
Attempt to pull forward as an initial test of the closing of the fifth wheel locks.
29
^ WARNING
An improperly coupled fifth wheel can come
loose, resulting in death or serious injury.
Do not tow the trailer until all of the visual
checks have been performed:
Adjustment nut against fifth wheel.
Secondary lock behind yoke.
Fifth wheel against kingpin plate.
Raise the Drop Leg Jack
A trailer having a fifth wheel coupler will be outfitted with one or two drop leg jacks for raising and lowering the fifth wheel
coupler. Because we use several drop leg jack mechanisms, the general instructions below may vary slightly from the jack
manufacturer’s instructions.
Rotate the jack handle counter-clockwise. This will slowly retract the jack and transfer the weight of the trailer tongue to the
towing vehicle. When the drop leg base is no longer resting on the ground, the towing vehicle hitch is holding all of the
weight of the trailer tongue. Continue retracting the jack to its fully retracted position.
Return the drop legs to their upper positions. The drop legs are held in the lowered position with a plunger pin. Rotating the
plunger pin while pulling it outward about ¾ inch will cause it to come out of the engagement with the drop leg and the leg
will rapidly raise.
Raise the Tailgate
Pick up the trailer wheel blocks.
^ Caution
The drop legs are heavily spring loaded in the
lowered position. They will rapidly return to
the upper position when released and can
inflict serious bruises, scrapes or pinching.
Keep your feet, shins and hands well clear of
the drop legs and drop leg bases when
releasing the drop legs.
Always wear shoes or boots while performing
this operation
ATTACH AND TEST THE BREAKAWAY BRAKE SYSTEM
If the coupler fails, a properly connected and working breakaway brake system will apply electric brakes on the trailer.
30
The breakaway brake system includes a battery, a switch with a pull pin, and a breakaway brake controller. Read and follow the
instructions here as well as the instructions that have been prepared by the breakaway brake controller manufacturer.
The breakaway brake system may be fitted with a charging facility that draws power from the tow vehicle. If the electrical system
on your tow vehicle does not provide power to the breakaway brake battery, you must periodically charge the battery to keep the
breakaway brake system in working order.
Visually inspect the breakaway brake system for broken parts.
Connect the pull pin cable to the tow vehicle. Do not connect to kingpin or its support.
Remove the pull pin from the switch and test tow the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h. You should feel the trailer resisting being
towed, but the wheels will not necessarily be locked.
Immediately replace the pull pin. The breakaway brake system battery discharges rapidly when the pull pin is removed.
^ WARNING
An ineffective breakaway brake system can
result in a runaway trailer leading to death or
serious injury, if the coupler fails.
Connect the breakaway cable to the tow
vehicle, and NOT to the kingpin or its support.
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.
Do not tow the trailer with the breakaway brake system ON because the brake will overheat which can result in permanent brake
failure.
^ WARNING
Failure to replace the pull pin will prevent
brakes from working, leading to loss of
control, serious injury or death.
If you do not use your trailer for three or more months, or during winter months:
Store the battery indoors; and Charge the battery every three months.
Replace the breakaway brake battery at intervals recommended by the battery manufacturer
CONNECT THE ELECTRICAL CABLES
Connect the trailer lights to the tow vehicle's electrical system using the electrical connectors. Check all lights for proper
operation:
Clearance and Running Lights (Turn on tow vehicle headlights).
31
Brake Lights (Step on Tow vehicle brake pedal).
Turn Signals (Operate tow vehicle directional signal lever).
Check brakes for proper operation: While towing the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h., manually operate the electric brake controller
in the tow vehicle cab. You should feel the operation of the trailer brakes.
UNCOUPLING THE FIFTH-WHEEL TRAILER WITH DROP-LEG JACK
Follow these steps to uncouple your fifth wheel hitch trailer from your tow vehicle
Block trailer tires to prevent the trailer from rolling before jacking the trailer up.
Disconnect the electrical connector.
Disconnect the breakaway brake switch cable. Promptly replace the pin in the switch.
If the tow vehicle has a tailgate, lower it.
Make certain that ground surface below jack base will support trailer tongue load.
Rotate the drop leg plunger pin handle so that the plunger pin is released from the drop leg.
Push down on the drop leg base with your foot to place a drop leg to the desired lowered position.
^ WARNING
Improper electrical connection between the
tow vehicle and the trailer will result in
inoperable lights and electric brakes, and can
lead to collision.
Before each tow:
Check that the taillights, brake lights
and turn signals work
Check that the electric brakes work by
operating the brake controller inside
the tow vehicle
32
^ Caution
The drop legs are heavily spring loaded in the
lowered position. They will rapidly return to
the upper position when released and can
inflict serious bruises, scrapes or pinching.
Keep your feet, shins and hands well clear of
the drop legs and drop leg bases when
releasing the drop legs.
Always wear shoes or boots while performing
this operation
Rotate the plunger pin handle so that the plunger pin is attempting to engage the drop leg
Slowly raise your foot, permitting the drop leg to raise. The plunger pin will engage a hole in the drop leg.
Be sure the plunger pin is fully engaged. Push it in by hand if necessary. The bent part of the plunger pin handle must be
touching the plunger pin housing.
If your trailer has two drop leg jacks, lower them both to the same level, following the above instructions.
^ Notice
If the drop legs are not set at the same level, one
of the drop leg jacks can be overloaded and can be
damaged.
Release the handle (or crank) from its holder and engage it with the jack shaft.
Rotate the handle (or crank) clockwise to slowly extend the jack and transfer the weight of the trailer tongue to the jack.
On two speed jacks, pushing the handle shaft toward the gearbox can perform rapid extension. This shifts the gearbox into a
high speed mode.
When the drop leg base contacts the ground, shift the gearbox into low speed mode by pulling out on the handle shaft until it
locks into low gear.
^ Notice
Do not use high speed to lift the trailer, the drop
leg jack mechanism can be damaged.
High speed is used only to rapidly move the drop
leg base into contact with the ground.
33
Continue to extend the jack(s), making sure that the ground is providing stable and level support for the trailer.
Turn the crank two or three turns to take some of the weight of the coupling. Do not raise the fifth wheel off the kingpin
plate.
After the jack(s) are extended enough to permit driving the tow vehicle away, disengage the jack handle from its shaft and
return it to its holder. Do NOT drive the tow vehicle yet!
Open the fifth wheel locks by:
pulling the release handle, or
using a separate pipe release handle to engage the solid stud on the secondary lock
Slowly drive the tow vehicle away from the trailer.
Raise the tow vehicle tailgate.
3. LOADING THE TRAILER
Improper trailer loading causes many accidents and deaths. To safely load a trailer, you must consider:
Overall load weight;
Load weight distribution;
Proper tongue weight; and
Securing the load properly.
To determine that you have loaded the trailer within its rating, you must consider the distribution of weight, as well as the total
weight of the trailer and its contents. The trailer axles carry most of the total weight of the trailer and its contents (Gross Vehicle
Weight, or “GVW”). The remainder of the total weight is carried by the tow vehicle hitch. It is essential for safe towing that the
trailer tongue and tow vehicle hitch carry the proper amount of the loaded trailer weight, otherwise the trailer can suddenly sway
wildly at towing speed. Read the “Tongue Weight” section below.
The load distribution must be such that no component part of the trailer is loaded beyond its rating. This means that you must
consider the rating of the tires, wheels and axles. For tandem and triple axle trailers, you must make sure that the front-to-rear load
distribution does not result in overloading any axle.
Towing stability also depends on keeping the center of gravity as low as possible. Load heavy items on the floor and over the
axles. When loading additional items, be sure to maintain even side-to-side weight distribution and proper tongue weight. The
total weight of the trailer and its contents must never exceed the total weight rating of the trailer (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, or
“GVWR”).
34
^ WARNING
An overloaded trailer can result in loss of
control of the trailer, leading to death or
serious injury.
Do not exceed the trailer Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR) or an axle Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR).
Do not load a trailer so that the weight on any
tire exceeds its rating.
Tongue Weight
It is critical to have a portion of the trailer load carried by the tow vehicle. That is, the trailer tongue must exert a downward force
on the hitch. This is necessary for two reasons. First, the proper amount of tongue weight is necessary for the tow vehicle to be
able to maintain control of the tow vehicle/trailer system. If, for example, the tongue exerts an upward pull on the hitch, instead of
pushing down on it (because the trailer is overloaded behind its axle(s)), the rear wheel of the tow vehicle can lose traction or grip
and cause loss of control. Also, even if there is some weight on the tongue, but not enough weight on the tongue, the trailer can
suddenly become unstable at high speeds.
If, on the other hand, there is too much tongue weight, the front wheels of the tow vehicle can be too lightly loaded and cause loss
of steering control and traction, as well, if the front wheels are driving.
In addition to tow vehicle control, tongue weight is necessary to insure that the trailer axle(s) do not exceed their Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR).
The table below has “rules of thumb” for proper tongue weight.
In the table below, the second column notes the rule of thumb percentage of total weight of the trailer plus its cargo (Gross Vehicle
Weight, or “GVW”) that should appear on the tongue of the trailer. For example, a trailer with a gooseneck hitch, with a loaded
weight of 12,000 pounds, should have 20-25% of 12,000 pounds on the tongue. That is, the example trailer would have 2,400 to
3,000 pounds on its tongue.
Tongue Weight as a Percentage of Loaded Trailer Weight
Type of Hitch
Percentage
Ball Hitch (or Bumper Hitch)
10–15%
Gooseneck Hitch
20–25%
Fifth Wheel Hitch
20-25%
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^ WARNING
Improper tongue weight (load distribution) can
result in loss of control of the trailer, leading to
death or serious injury.
Make certain that tongue weight is within the
allowable range.
Be sure to:
Distribute the load front-to-rear to
provide proper tongue weight (see
chart);
Distribute the load evenly, right and left,
to avoid tire overload; and
Keep the center of gravity low.
3.1 CHECKING TONGUE WEIGHT
To check the tongue weight, the tow vehicle and trailer must be on level ground, as they will be when the trailer is being towed.
If you know the weight on your tow vehicle axles when you are not towing a trailer, trailer tongue weight can be determined with
the use of a truck axle scale.
3.2 SECURING THE CARGO
Since the trailer “ride” can be bumpy and rough, you must secure your cargo so that it does not shift while the trailer is being
towed.
^ WARNING
Shifting cargo can result in loss of control of
the trailer, and can lead to death or serious
injury.
Tie down all loads with proper sized
fasteners, ropes, straps, etc.
3.3 LOADING CARGO (ENCLOSED TRAILER)
Couple the trailer to the tow vehicle before loading. The tongue of a bumper pull trailer can rise during loading, before the cargo
is properly distributed. To measure the tongue weight, you will have to uncouple the trailer after it is loaded.
Do not transport people, containers of hazardous substances, cans or containers of flammable substances. However, fuel in the tank
of an off-road vehicle, or a car or motorcycle, etc., may be carried inside of your enclosed cargo trailer.
36
^ WARNING
Do not transport people inside the trailer,
even if it has living quarters. The transport of
people puts their lives at risk and may be
illegal.
PREPARING THE TRAILER FOR LOADING
Before loading cargo into your enclosed trailer, inspect the interior of the trailer.
Enclosed trailers may be fitted with “D”-ring hold-downs, and/or a track system that can be used to secure the cargo. Inspect the
“D”-rings and track system for looseness or signs of bending before loading the cargo onto the trailer.
^ WARNING
Damaged or loose “D”-rings can break,
allowing cargo to become loose inside the
trailer. Loose cargo can shift the center of
gravity, and result in loss of control of the
trailer.
Inspect “D”-rings, and test them for looseness
before loading cargo.
Do not use a damaged or loose “D”-ring to
secure cargo.
LOADING THE ENCLOSED TRAILER
Enclosed trailers may be fitted with a drop ramp door. The weight of the drop ramp door is partially held by a spring and cable
counterbalance assembly. If this assembly is out of adjustment or worn out, it will not provide the expected assistance for slow
and careful lowering and raising of the ramp.
Carefully lower the drop ramp to the ground.
Load the cargo up the drop ramp and into the trailer.
Secure the cargo to the trailer using appropriate straps, chains and tensioning devices.
Close the drop ramp door and secure the trailer door catch using a linchpin or other locking device, so that the catch and door
cannot open while the trailer is being towed.
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^ WARNING
If the door opens, your cargo may be ejected
onto the road, resulting in death or serious
injury to other drivers.
Always secure the door latch after closing.
Place a linchpin in the catch.
LOADING HORSES (HORSE TRAILER)
Couple the trailer to the tow vehicle before loading. This is essential for the bumper pull trailer because the tongue of a bumper
pull trailer can rise during loading, before the cargo is properly distributed.
The cargo-carrying portion of a horse trailer is designed only for carrying horses. Do not transport people, livestock, containers of
hazardous substances, or containers of flammable substances.
^ WARNING
Do not carry “loose” livestock in your horse
trailer. They can cause the trailer to become
unstable and can result in loss of control.
You must use a trailer designed to carry
“loose” livestock.
Before loading a horse in your trailer, inspect the interior of the trailer. The interior of the trailer must be smooth, and have no
protruding objects. There should be no loose objects that could move about and startle or injure the horse. Check the walls, floor,
dividers, etc., for loose and broken parts, welds, hinges, etc.
PREPARING THE HORSE TRAILER FOR LOADING
Open windows and vents to provide ventilation. Consider the weather and transport conditions (i.e. on warm sunny days,
maximum ventilation is required). Do not carry a horse without providing ventilation, even in coldest weather. Ventilation is
critical for the wellbeing of your horses. Know your horses and adjust ventilation for your horses’ comfort.
Be sure pivoting window latches are in a flush position, so they do not present a protrusion that can injure your horse.
Tighten any loose or protruding screws in the walls.
Remove or secure loose objects, (i.e. butt bars, saddles, tack and equipment) so that items will not move during towing.
Inspect for cracks at the welds on the divider hinges, and the welds on the tie rings. If you are able to open any cracks in or near
these welds by lifting the dividers or by twisting the tie rings, have the weld repaired before loading your horses.
LOADING THE HORSE TRAILER
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The trailering of horses introduces many variables that are not present in the trailering of non-living cargo. Horses are prone to
take flight when they feel threatened or pain. In the confines of a trailer, the flight response can cause serious injury or death to a
human handler. Even experienced and docile horses can be frightened.
Horses must be slowly acclimated to trailering. Be sure the horse’s first trips are short trips, so you can gauge its reaction. Some
will take to the experience easily, but others will strongly protest. You must act according to your horse’s demeanor.
^ WARNING
When a horse is frightened, it is capable of
inflicting serious injury or death to a human
handler.
Know your horse’s temperament before
attempting to trailer it.
Handling a horse that is not trailer-acclimated
may result in injury or death, or damage to
your trailer.
Do not haul an unbroken horse in this trailer.
Horses must have a halter.
Open all stall dividers and lock them in their OPEN (against the wall) position.
If the trailer has living quarters, close and lock the door between the living quarters and the horse area.
If the trailer is fitted with a drop ramp, carefully lower it to the ground.
If your trailer is fitted with swinging loading doors, open them fully and fasten them against the side of the trailer using the door
holdbacks.
Lead the horse into the trailer by a halter or lead rope. If the horse shows any signs of distress, stop loading, and calm the horse.
Tie the horse to the trailer interior by fastening the quick connect or tying the lead rope to the tie ring, or other facility provided on
the trailer wall for attachment of the lead rope. A rule of thumb is to leave about 18 inches of free rope between the attachment
point on the trailer and the horse. The layout of the horse trailer has been designed to safely contain your horse. The trailer is
equipped with stall dividers and tie rings to secure the horse, and has Rumber flooring. Restraining a horse without using a
combination of a tie-strap and stall divider may result in serious injury or death to the horse.
Close and lock the stall divider.
If additional horses are to be loaded, repeat steps 5-7 above for each horse – lead the horse, secure the horse, close and lock the
stall divider.
After the last horse has been loaded, lock any unused dividers in the CLOSED (across the trailer) position.
Double check that each horse is tied to the trailer and each stall divider is LOCKED in the CLOSED position.
If your trailer is fitted with a butt bar or butt strap to keep the horse away from the door, hook and lock the butt bar in place.
39
Close the trailer. Remove the door holdbacks and swing the hinged doors to a closed position, or raise the drop ramp.
Secure the trailer door catch with a linchpin or similar device, so that the catch and door cannot open while the trailer is being
towed.
If your trailer is fitted with feed doors, close and secure them.
Check the horses after 5 to 10 miles or 10 minutes of towing, and then at least once per hour thereafter. Open a feed door or other
access and look for signs of stress, cuts, or injury.
^ WARNING
Horses may kick when back door is opened.
Stay clear when opening back door.
LOADING CARGO (DUMP TRAILER)
With the trailer wheels chocked to prevent rolling, couple the trailer to the tow vehicle before loading. The tongue of a bumper
pull trailer can rise during loading, before the cargo is properly distributed. Your trailer has a breakaway cable and safety chain,
attach the cable and chain to your tow vehicle allowing enough slack for you to make tight turns. Connect the trailer wiring
harness to the electrical system of your tow vehicle and check the operation of lights and brakes. Do not use the trailer until lights
or brake repairs have been made. Inspect trailer tires and inflate to proper specifications.
PREPARING THE TRAILER FOR LOADING
Before loading cargo into your dump trailer, inspect the interior of the trailer.
Dump trailers may be fitted with “D”-ring hold downs that can be used to secure the cargo. Inspect the “D”-rings for looseness or
signs of bending before loading the cargo onto the trailer.
LOADING THE DUMP TRAILER
Caution must be used in loading your trailer to not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating of your trailer or tow vehicle. Gravel,
sand and soil are approximately 2,700 lbs. per cubic yard, which should be taken into consideration when loading these items.
Normal weight distribution of a trailer is approximately 10% of load on the tongue. Too much weight on the tongue will overload
the tow vehicle hitch. Too little weight could cause the trailer to sway.
4. CHECKING THE TRAILER BEFORE AND DURING EACH TOW
4.1 PRE-TOW CHECKLIST
Before towing, double-check all of these items:
Tires, wheels and lug nuts.
Coupler secured and locked (see the “Coupling and Uncoupling the trailer” section starting on page 21 of this manual)
Safety chains properly rigged to tow vehicle, not to hitch or ball (see the “Coupling the Tow Vehicle” chapter
starting on page 17 of this manual)
Test of lights: Tail, Stop, and Turn
40
Safety breakaway switch cable fastened to tow vehicle, not to safety chains (see the “Coupling to the Tow
Vehicle” chapter starting on page 17 of this manual)
Cargo properly loaded, balanced and tied down (see the “Loading the Trailer” chapter starting at Section 3 of this manual)
Tongue weight
Doors and gates latched and secured
Fire extinguisher
Flares and reflectors
4.2 MAKE REGULAR STOPS
After each 50 miles, or one hour of towing, stop and check the following items:
Coupler secured
Safety chains are fastened and not dragging
Cargo secured
Cargo door latched and secured
5. TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION
This portion of the User’s Manual contains tire safety information as required by 49 CFR 575.6.
Section 2.1 contains “Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit - Trailer”.
Section 2.2 contains “Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit – Tow Vehicle”.
Section 2.3 contains a Glossary of Tire Terminology, including “cold inflation pressure”, “maximum inflation pressure”,
“recommended inflation pressure”, and other non-technical terms.
Section 2.4 contains information from the NHTSA brochure entitled “Tire Safety – Everything Rides On It”.
This brochure, as well as the preceding subsections, describes the following items;
Tire labeling, including a description and explanation of each marking on the tires, and information about the DOT Tire
Identification Number (TIN).
Recommended tire inflation pressure, including a description and explanation of:
A. Cold inflation pressure.
B. Vehicle Placard and location on the vehicle.
C. Adverse safety consequences of under inflation (including tire failure).
D. Measuring and adjusting air pressure for proper inflation.
Tire Care, including maintenance and safety practices.
Vehicle load limits, including a description and explanation of the following items:
A. Locating and understanding the load limit information, total load capacity, and cargo capacity.
41
B. Calculating total and cargo capacities with varying seating configurations including quantitative examples showing /
illustrating how the vehicles cargo and luggage capacity decreases as combined number and size of occupants’
increases. This item is also discussed in Section 3.
C. Determining compatibility of tire and vehicle load capabilities.
D. Adverse safety consequences of overloading on handling and stopping on tires.
5.1 STEPS FOR DETERMINING CORRECT LOAD LIMIT – TRAILER
Determining the load limits of a trailer includes more than understanding the load limits of the tires alone. On all trailers there is a
Federal certification/VIN label that is located on the forward half of the left (road) side of the unit. This certification/VIN label will
indicate the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This is the most weight the fully loaded trailer can weigh. It will also
provide the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). This is the most a particular axle can weigh. If there are multiple axles, the
GAWR of each axle will be provided.
If your trailer has a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less, there is a vehicle placard located in the same location as the certification
label described above. This placard provides tire and loading information. In addition, this placard will show a statement regarding
maximum cargo capacity. Cargo can be added to the trailer, up to the maximum weight specified on the placard. The combined
weight of the cargo is provided as a single number. In any case, remember: the total weight of a fully loaded trailer cannot exceed
the stated GVWR.
For trailers with living quarters installed, the weight of water and propane also need to be considered. The weight of fully filled
propane containers is considered part of the weight of the trailer before it is loaded with cargo, and is not considered part of the
disposable cargo load. Water however, is a disposable cargo weight and is treated as such. If there is a fresh water storage tank of
100 gallons, this tank when filled would weigh about 800 pounds. If more cargo is being transported, water can be off-loaded to
keep the total amount of cargo added to the vehicle within the limits of the GVWR so as not to overload the vehicle.
Understanding this flexibility will allow you, the owner, to make choices that fit your travel needs.
When loading your cargo, be sure it is distributed evenly to prevent overloading front to back and side to side. Heavy items should
be placed low and as close to the axle positions as reasonable. Too many items on one side may overload a tire. The best way to
know the actual weight of the vehicle is to weigh it at a public scale. Talk to your dealer to discuss the weighing methods needed
to capture the various weights related to the trailer. This would include the weight empty or unloaded, weights per axle, wheel,
hitch or king-pin, and total weight.
Excessive loads and/or under inflation cause tire overloading and, as a result, abnormal tire flexing occurs. This situation can
generate an excessive amount of heat within the tire.
Excessive heat may lead to tire failure. It is the air pressure that enables a tire to support the load, so proper inflation is critical. The
proper air pressure may be found on the certification/VIN label and/or on the Tire Placard. This value should never exceed the
maximum cold inflation pressure stamped on the tire.
TRAILERS 10,000 POUNDS GVWR OR LESS
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Tire and Loading Information Placard – Figure 1-1
1. Locate the statement, “The weight of cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.,” on your vehicle’s
placard. See figure 1-1.
2. This figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity.
3. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely
exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity.
The trailer’s placard refers to the Tire Information Placard attached adjacent to or near the trailer’s VIN (Certification) label at the
left front of the trailer.
1.1.2. TRAILERS OVER 10,000 POUNDS GVWR (NOTE: THESE TRAILERS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO
HAVE A TIRE INFORMATION PLACARD ON THE VEHICLE)
1. Determine the empty weight of your trailer by weighing the trailer using a public scale or other means. This step
does not have to be repeated.
2. Locate the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of the trailer on your trailer’s VIN (Certification) label.
3. Subtract the empty weight of your trailer from the GVWR stated on the VIN label. That weight is the maximum
available cargo capacity of the trailer and may not be safely exceeded.
5.2 STEPS FOR DETERMINING CORRECT LOAD LIMIT – TOW VEHICLE
1. Locate the statement, “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX lbs.,” on your
vehicle’s placard.
2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers who will be riding in your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds.
4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount
equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and
luggage capacity is 650 lbs. (1400-750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.).
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5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely
exceed the available cargo and luggage capacity calculated in Step # 4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult the tow
vehicle’s manual to determine how this weight transfer reduces the available cargo and luggage capacity of your
vehicle.
5.3 GLOSSARY OF TIRE TERMINOLOGY
Accessory weight
The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power
brakes, power windows, power seats, radio and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-installed equipment
(whether installed or not).
Bead
The part of the tire that is made of steel wires, wrapped or reinforced by ply cords and that is shaped to fit the rim.
Bead separation
This is the breakdown of the bond between components in the bead.
Bias ply tire
A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at alternate angles substantially less than 90 degrees to the
centerline of the tread.
Carcass
The tire structure, except tread and sidewall rubber which, when inflated, bears the load.
Chunking
The breaking away of pieces of the tread or sidewall.
Cold inflation pressure
The pressure in the tire before you drive.
Cord
The strands forming the plies in the tire.
Cord separation
The parting of cords from adjacent rubber compounds.
Cracking
Any parting within the tread, sidewall, or inner liner of the tire extending to cord material.
CT
A pneumatic tire with an inverted flange tire and rim system in which the rim is designed with rim flanges pointed radially inward
and the tire is designed to fit on the underside of the rim in a manner that encloses the rim flanges inside the air cavity of the tire.
Curb weight
44
The weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if so
equipped, air conditioning and additional weight optional engine.
Extra load tire
A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding standard tire.
Groove
The space between two adjacent tread ribs.
Gross Axle Weight Rating
The maximum weight that any axle can support, as published on the Certification / VIN label on the front left side of the trailer.
Actual weight determined by weighing each axle on a public scale, with the trailer attached to the towing vehicle.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
The maximum weight of the fully loaded trailer, as published on the Certification / VIN label. Actual weight determined by
weighing trailer on a public scale, without being attached to the towing vehicle.
Hitch Weight
The downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer coupler.
Inner liner
The layer(s) forming the inside surface of a tubeless tire that contains the inflating medium within the tire.
Inner liner separation
The parting of the inner liner from cord material in the carcass.
Intended outboard sidewall
The sidewall that contains a white-wall, bears white lettering or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is
higher or deeper than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire or the outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that
has a particular side that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle.
Light truck (LT) tire
A tire designated by its manufacturer as primarily intended for use on lightweight trucks or multipurpose passenger vehicles.
Load rating
The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure.
Maximum load rating
The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire.
Maximum permissible inflation pressure
The maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated.
Maximum loaded vehicle weight
The sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight, and production options weight.
45
Measuring rim
The rim on which a tire is fitted for physical dimension requirements.
Pin Weight
The downward force applied to the 5
th
wheel or gooseneck ball, by the trailer kingpin or gooseneck coupler.
Non-pneumatic rim
A mechanical device which, when a non-pneumatic tire assembly incorporates a wheel, supports the tire, and attaches, either
integrally or separable, to the wheel center member and upon which the tire is attached.
Non-pneumatic spare tire assembly
A non-pneumatic tire assembly intended for temporary use in place of one of the pneumatic tires and rims that are fitted to a
passenger car in compliance with the requirements of this standard.
Non-pneumatic tire
A mechanical device which transmits, either directly or through a wheel or wheel center member, the vertical load and tractive
forces from the roadway to the vehicle, generates the tractive forces that provide the directional control of the vehicle and does not
rely on the containment of any gas or fluid for providing those functions.
Non-pneumatic tire assembly1
A non-pneumatic tire, alone or in combination with a wheel or wheel center member, which can be mounted on a vehicle.
Normal occupant weight
This means 68 kilograms (150 lbs.) times the number of occupants specified in the second column of Table I of 49 CFR 571.110.
Occupant distribution
The distribution of occupants in a vehicle as specified in the third column of Table I of 49 CFR 571.110.
Open splice
Any parting at any junction of tread, sidewall, or inner liner that extends to cord material.
Outer diameter
The overall diameter of an inflated new tire.
Overall width
The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, including elevations due to labeling, decorations, or
protective bands or ribs.
Ply
A layer of rubber-coated parallel cords.
Ply separation
A parting of rubber compound between adjacent plies.
Pneumatic tire
46
A mechanical device made of rubber, chemicals, fabric and steel or other materials, that, when mounted on an automotive wheel,
provides the traction and contains the gas or fluid that sustains the load.
Production options weight
The combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over 2.3 kilograms (5 lbs.) in excess of those standard
items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty brakes, ride levelers,
roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim.
Radial ply tire
A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at substantially 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
Recommended inflation pressure
This is the inflation pressure provided by the vehicle manufacturer on the Tire Information label and on the Certification / VIN tag.
Reinforced tire
A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding standard tire.
Rim
A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads are seated.
Rim diameter
This means the nominal diameter of the bead seat.
Rim size designation
This means the rim diameter and width.
Rim type designation
This means the industry of manufacturer’s designation for a rim by style or code.
Rim width
This means the nominal distance between rim flanges.
Section width
The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, excluding elevations due to labeling, decoration, or
protective bands.
Sidewall
That portion of a tire between the tread and bead.
Sidewall separation
The parting of the rubber compound from the cord material in the sidewall.
Special Trailer (ST) tire
The "ST" is an indication the tire is for trailer use only.
47
Test rim
The rim on which a tire is fitted for testing, and may be any rim listed as appropriate for use with that tire.
Tread
That portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road.
Tread rib
A tread section running circumferentially around a tire.
Tread separation
Pulling away of the tread from the tire carcass.
Tread wear indicators (TWI)
The projections within the principal grooves designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the tread.
Vehicle capacity weight
The rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilograms (150 lbs.) times the vehicle’s designated seating capacity.
Vehicle maximum load on the tire
The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and
dividing by two.
Vehicle normal load on the tire
The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the curb weight, accessory weight, and
normal occupant weight (distributed in accordance with Table I of CRF 49 571.110) and dividing by 2.
Weather side
The surface area of the rim not covered by the inflated tire.
Wheel center member
In the case of a non-pneumatic tire assembly incorporating a wheel, a mechanical device which attaches, either integrally or
separable, to the non-pneumatic rim and provides the connection between the non-pneumatic rim and the vehicle; or, in the case of
a non-pneumatic tire assembly not incorporating a wheel, a mechanical device which attaches, either integrally or separable, to the
non-pneumatic tire and provides the connection between tire and the vehicle.
Wheel-holding fixture
The fixture used to hold the wheel and tire assembly securely during testing.
5.4 TIRE SAFETY - EVERYTHING RIDES ON IT
The National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has published a brochure (DOT HS 809 361) that discusses all aspects of
Tire Safety, as required by CFR 575.6. This brochure is reproduced in part below. It can be obtained and downloaded from
NHTSA, free of charge, from the following web site:
48
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/TireSafety/ridesonit/tires_index.html
Studies of tire safety show that maintaining proper tire pressure, observing tire and vehicle load limits (not carrying more weight in
your vehicle than your tires or vehicle can safely handle), avoiding road hazards, and inspecting tires for cuts, slashes, and other
irregularities are the most important things you can do to avoid tire failure, such as tread separation or blowout and flat tires. These
actions, along with other care and maintenance activities, can also:
Improve vehicle handling
Help protect you and others from avoidable breakdowns and accidents
Improve fuel economy
Increase the life of your tires.
This booklet presents a comprehensive overview of tire safety, including information on the following topics:
Basic tire maintenance
Uniform Tire Quality Grading System
Fundamental characteristics of tires
Tire safety tips.
Use this information to make tire safety a regular part of your vehicle maintenance routine. Recognize that the time you spend is
minimal compared with the inconvenience and safety consequences of a flat tire or other tire failure.
5.5 SAFETY FIRST–BASIC TIRE MAINTENANCE
Properly maintained tires improve the steering, stopping, traction, and load-carrying capability of your vehicle. Under inflated tires
and overloaded vehicles are a major cause of tire failure. Therefore, as mentioned above, to avoid flat tires and other types of tire
failure, you should maintain proper tire pressure, observe tire and vehicle load limits, avoid road hazards, and regularly inspect
your tires.
FINDING YOUR VEHICLE'S RECOMMENDED TIRE PRESSURE AND LOAD LIMITS
Tire information placards and vehicle certification labels contain information on tires and load limits. These labels indicate the
vehicle manufacturer's information including:
Recommended tire size
Recommended tire inflation pressure
Vehicle capacity weight (VCW–the maximum occupant and cargo weight a vehicle is designed to carry)
Front and rear gross axle weight ratings (GAWR– the maximum weight the axle systems are designed to carry).
Both placards and certification labels are permanently attached to the trailer near the left front.
UNDERSTANDING TIRE PRESSURE AND LOAD LIMITS
Tire inflation pressure is the level of air in the tire that provides it with load-carrying capacity and affects the overall performance
of the vehicle. The tire inflation pressure is a number that indicates the amount of air pressure– measured in pounds per square
49
inch (psi)–a tire requires to be properly inflated. (You will also find this number on the vehicle information placard expressed in
kilopascals (kpa), which is the metric measure used internationally.)
Manufacturers of passenger vehicles and light trucks determine this number based on the vehicle's design load limit, that is, the
greatest amount of weight a vehicle can safely carry and the vehicle's tire size. The proper tire pressure for your vehicle is referred
to as the "recommended cold inflation pressure." (As you will read below, it is difficult to obtain the recommended tire pressure if
your tires are not cold.)
Because tires are designed to be used on more than one type of vehicle, tire manufacturers list the "maximum permissible inflation
pressure" on the tire sidewall. This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal
driving conditions.
CHECKING TIRE PRESSURE
It is important to check your vehicle's tire pressure at least once a month for the following reasons:
Most tires may naturally lose air over time.
Tires can lose air suddenly if you drive over a pothole or other object or if you strike the curb when parking.
With radial tires, it is usually not possible to determine under inflation by visual inspection.
For convenience, purchase a tire pressure gauge to keep in your vehicle. Gauges can be purchased at tire dealerships, auto supply
stores, and other retail outlets.
The recommended tire inflation pressure that vehicle manufacturers provide reflects the proper psi when a tire is cold. The term
cold does not relate to the outside temperature. Rather, a cold tire is one that has not been driven on for at least three hours. When
you drive, your tires get warmer, causing the air pressure within them to increase. Therefore, to get an accurate tire pressure
reading, you must measure tire pressure when the tires are cold or compensate for the extra pressure in warm tires.
STEPS FOR MAINTAINING PROPER TIRE PRESSURE
Step 1: Locate the recommended tire pressure on the vehicle's tire information placard, certification label, or in the
owner's manual.
Step 2: Record the tire pressure of all tires.
Step 3: If the tire pressure is too high in any of the tires, slowly release air by gently pressing on the tire valve stem with
the edge of your tire gauge until you get to the correct pressure.
Step 4: If the tire pressure is too low, note the difference between the measured tire pressure and the correct tire pressure.
These "missing" pounds of pressure are what you will need to add.
Step 5: At a service station, add the missing pounds of air pressure to each tire that is underinflated.
Step 6: Check all the tires to make sure they have the same air pressure (except in cases in which the front and rear tires
are supposed to have different amounts of pressure).
If you have been driving your vehicle and think that a tire is underinflated, fill it to the recommended cold inflation pressure
indicated on your vehicle's tire information placard or certification label. While your tire may still be slightly underinflated due to
the extra pounds of pressure in the warm tire, it is safer to drive with air pressure that is slightly lower than the vehicle
50
manufacturer's recommended cold inflation pressure than to drive with a significantly underinflated tire. Since this is a temporary
fix, don't forget to recheck and adjust the tire's pressure when you can obtain a cold reading.
TIRE SIZE
To maintain tire safety, purchase new tires that are the same size as the vehicle's original tires or another size recommended by the
manufacturer. Look at the tire information placard, the owner's manual, or the sidewall of the tire you are replacing to find this
information. If you have any doubt about the correct size to choose, consult with the tire dealer.
TIRE TREAD
The tire tread provides the gripping action and traction that prevent your vehicle from slipping or sliding, especially when the road
is wet or icy. In general, tires are not safe and should be replaced when the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch. Tires have built-
in tread wear indicators that let you know when it is time to replace your tires. These indicators are raised sections spaced
intermittently in the bottom of the tread grooves. When they appear "even" with the outside of the tread, it is time to replace your
tires. Another method for checking tread depth is to place a penny in the tread with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If
you can see the top of Lincoln's head, you are ready for new tires.
TIRE BALANCE AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT
To avoid vibration or shaking of the vehicle when a tire rotates, the tire must be properly balanced. This balance is achieved by
positioning weights on the wheel to counterbalance heavy spots on the wheel-and-tire assembly. A wheel alignment adjusts the
angles of the wheels so that they are positioned correctly relative to the vehicle's frame. This adjustment maximizes the life of your
tires. These adjustments require special equipment and should be performed by a qualified technician.
TIRE REPAIR
Repair of a punctured tire should only be completed by personnel trained for that purpose. Tires must be removed from the rim to
be properly inspected before being repaired. The process requires a properly installed patch for the area inside the tire that
surrounds the puncture hole. Punctures through the tread can be repaired if they are not too large or located too close to the
sidewall; punctures to the sidewall should not be repaired.
TIRE FUNDAMENTALS
Federal law requires tire manufacturers to place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This information identifies
and describes the fundamental characteristics of the tire and also provides a tire identification number for safety standard
certification and in case of a recall.
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INFORMATION ON PASSENGER VEHICLE TIRES: PLEASE REFER TO THE DIAGRAM BELOW.
P
The "P" indicates the tire is for passenger vehicles.
Next number
This three-digit number gives the width in millimeters of the tire from sidewall edge to sidewall edge. In general, the larger the
number, the wider the tire.
Next number
This two-digit number, known as the aspect ratio, gives the tire's ratio of height to width. Numbers of 70 or lower indicate a short
sidewall for improved steering response and better overall handling on dry pavement.
R
The "R" stands for radial. Radial ply construction of tires has been the industry standard for the past 20 years.
Next number
This two-digit number is the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you change your wheel size, you will have to purchase new tires to
match the new wheel diameter.
Next number
This two- or three-digit number is the tire's load index. It is a measurement of how much weight each tire can support. You may
find this information in your owner's manual. If not, contact a local tire dealer. Note: You may not find this information on all tires
because it is not required by law.
M+S
The "M+S" or "M/S" indicates that the tire has some mud and snow capability. Most radial tires have these markings; hence, they
have some mud and snow capability.
Speed Rating
The speed rating denotes the speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for extended periods of time. The ratings range from 99
miles per hour (mph) to 186 mph. These ratings are listed below. Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is
not required by law.
Letter Rating
Speed Rating
52
Q
99 mph
R
106 mph
S
112 mph
T
118 mph
U
124 mph
H
130 mph
V
149 mph
W
168* mph
Y
186* mph
* For tires with a maximum speed capability over 149 mph, tire manufacturers sometimes use the letters ZR. For those with a
maximum speed capability over 186 mph, tire manufacturers always use the letters ZR.
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number
This begins with the letters "DOT" and indicates that the tire meets all federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the
plant code where it was manufactured, and the last four numbers represent the week and year the tire was built. For example, the
numbers 3197 means the 31st week of 1997. The other numbers are marketing codes used at the manufacturer's discretion. This
information is used to contact consumers if a tire defect requires a recall.
Tire Ply Composition and Materials Used
The number of plies indicates the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire. In general, the greater the number of plies,
the more weight a tire can support. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the materials in the tire, which include steel, nylon,
polyester, and others.
Maximum Load Rating
This number indicates the maximum load in kilograms and pounds that can be carried by the tire.
Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure
This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal driving conditions.
UTQGS INFORMATION
Tread wear Number
This number indicates the tire's wear rate. The higher the tread wear number is, the longer it should take for the tread to wear
down. For example, a tire graded 400 should last twice as long as a tire graded 200.
Traction Letter
This letter indicates a tire's ability to stop on wet pavement. A higher graded tire should allow you to stop your car on wet roads in
a shorter distance than a tire with a lower grade. Traction is graded from highest to lowest as "AA","A", "B", and "C".
Temperature Letter
This letter indicates a tire's resistance to heat. The temperature grade is for a tire that is inflated properly and not overloaded.
53
Excessive speed, under inflation or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible tire
failure. From highest to lowest, a tire's resistance to heat is graded as "A", "B", or "C".
54
1.5.9.3. Additional Information on Light Truck Tires
Please refer to the following diagram.
Tires for light trucks have other markings besides those found on the sidewalls of passenger tires.
LT
The "LT" indicates the tire is for light trucks or trailers.
ST
An "ST" is an indication the tire is for trailer use only.
Max. Load Dual kg (lbs) at kPa (psi) Cold
This information indicates the maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a dual, that is, when four tires are put on
each rear axle (a total of six or more tires on the vehicle).
Max. Load Single kg (lbs) at kPa (psi) Cold
This information indicates the maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a single.
Load Range
This information identifies the tire's load-carrying capabilities and its inflation limits.
5.6 TIRE SAFETY TIPS
Preventing Tire Damage
Slow down if you have to go over a pothole or other object in the road.
Do not run over curbs or other foreign objects in the roadway, and try not to strike the curb when parking.
55
Tire Safety Checklist
Check tire pressure regularly (at least once a month), including the spare.
Inspect tires for uneven wear patterns on the tread, cracks, foreign objects, or other signs of wear or trauma.
Remove bits of glass and foreign objects wedged in the tread.
Make sure your tire valves have valve caps.
Check tire pressure before going on a long trip.
Do not overload your vehicle. Check the Tire Information and Loading Placard or User’s Manual for the maximum
recommended load for the vehicle.
6. BREAKING-IN A NEW TRAILER
6.1. RETIGHTEN LUG NUTS AT FIRST 10, 25 & 50 MILES
Wheel lugs can shift and settle quickly after being first assembled, and must be checked after the first 10, 25 and 50 miles of
driving. Failure to perform this check may result in a wheel coming loose from the trailer, causing a crash leading to death or
serious injury.
6.2. ADJUST BRAKE SHOES AT FIRST 200 MILES
Brake shoes and drums experience a rapid initial wear. The brakes must be adjusted after the first 200 miles of use, and each
3,000 miles thereafter. Some axles are fitted with a mechanism that will automatically adjust the brake shoes when the trailer is
“hard braked” from a forward direction. Read your axle and brake manual to see if your brakes adjust automatically.
A hard stop is used to:
confirm that the brakes work;
confirm that the trailer brakes are properly synchronized with the tow vehicle brakes; and for many braking systems,
automatically adjust the brake shoes.
If your trailer is not fitted with automatically adjusting brakes, the brakes will need to be manually adjusted. See section 0,
“Manually Adjusting Brake Shoes,” for instructions.
6.3. SYNCHRONIZING THE BRAKE SYSTEMS
Trailer brakes are designed to work in synchronization with the brakes on the tow vehicle. Do not use either brake system alone to
stop the combined tow vehicle and trailer. When the tow vehicle and trailer braking systems are synchronized, both braking
systems contribute to slowing, and the tongue of the trailer will neither dive nor rise sharply.
56
^ WARNING
If trailer and tow vehicle brakes do not work
properly together, death or serious injury can
occur.
Road test the brakes in a safe area at no more
than 30 m.p.h. before each tow
7. ACCESSORIES
This chapter provides some basic information for the safe operation of several accessories. For many accessories the manufacturer
of the accessory has also provided instructions. You must read and follow these instructions before using the accessory. The
following accessories are described in this section:
Gasoline (or LP) and Diesel Generators
Accessory Battery
“Shore Power” connections which provide power by “plugging the trailer in” to an external source of electrical power
Vending or Accessory Doors
Electric-powered Landing Gear
Many accessories introduce the risk of fire. If you have an accessory on your trailer, make sure you have a fire extinguisher
charged and ready before operating the accessory. Check the fire extinguisher at least once a month. If the fire extinguisher is
discharged even partially, it must be recharged. Follow the fire extinguisher manufacturer’s instructions for recharging the
extinguisher after use.
7.1. GASOLINE-POWERED ELECTRIC GENERATORS
If your trailer is equipped with a generator, you must have and follow the generator manufacturer’s instructions. Carbon monoxide
gas is present in the exhaust of all gasoline and diesel engines, as well as from other burning fuels such as LP gas and charcoal.
Carbon Monoxide is an odorless gas that can cause death. Be certain exhaust from any running engine or burning fuels cannot
accumulate in areas where people or animals are likely to be present.
Conditions that can redirect exhaust fumes are, for example:
Being drawn in by fans or ventilators operated in a trailer;
Prevailing wind;
Being trapped between adjacent trailers, vehicles or buildings; or
Being trapped between or in a snow bank or other materials that can redirect fumes.
You must have an operating carbon monoxide detector inside the accommodation spaces of your trailer.
57
^ WARNING
Operating gasoline and diesel generators can
lead to death or serious injury by:
Carbon Monoxide
Fire and Explosion
Electrocution
Have a working carbon monoxide detector in
the accommodation spaces before operating
a generator.
Do not refuel a running generator or refuel
near ignition sources.
7.2. ACCESSORY BATTERY
Your trailer may be outfitted with an accessory battery that operates lighting or other accessories. An accessory battery may be
kept charged either by the tow vehicle or by the generator or shore power.
A disconnect switch may be provided to disconnect the accessory battery when you do not plan to be using the trailer for an
extended period, such as seasonal storage. If there is no disconnect switch, then remove the cables from the battery terminals.
The accessory battery must be kept in a charged condition during storage. The battery could freeze and break if it becomes
discharged.
7.3. SHORE POWER
Shore power is the delivery of electrical power from another source to a power inlet on your trailer. To connect your trailer to this
source, you must have a “shore power” cord, specifically designed for this use. DO NOT USE AN ORDINARY EXTENSION
CORD. The trailer end of this cord is connected to an electrical box on the trailer, sometimes referred to as a “motor base.” This
box contains circuit breakers and/or fuses and may include a power converter to change the shore power (usually 110 volts
alternating current) into 12 volts direct current.
Do not assume that a shore power supply is correctly wired. Shore power may have incorrect polarity or not have the safety
ground. Before connecting your trailer, test shore power by using a polarity and ground tester, which can be purchased at
electronic stores.
If you have shore power, your trailer may be fitted with Ground-Fault Interrupting outlets (GFI). If you have GFI protection, you
must periodically test the outlets by pressing the “TEST” button that is located on the GFI-equipped outlet.
58
^ WARNING
Shore power poses a risk of death due to electrocution or fire
Always use an electrical cord specifically designed for shore power connection. Never use an
ordinary extension cord.
Always connect the electrical cord to a grounded source of shore power.
Do not remove the “third prong” from the shore power plug.
Connect only to source of proper voltage.
Make certain polarity is correct.
Do not overload electrical circuits.
Always replace fuses or circuit breakers with correct rating.
7.4. VENDING & ACCESSORY DOORS
A vending or accessory door opens vertically and has a hinge along its top edge. These doors are equipped with two locking props
that lock into place once extended to proper height. To release the locking mechanism, simply raise the vending door slightly
allowing the locking mechanism to become disengaged.
8. INSPECTION SERVICE & MAINTENANCE
8.1. INSPECTION, SERVICE & MAINTENANCE SUMMARY CHARTS
You must inspect, maintain and service your trailer regularly to insure safe and reliable operation. If you cannot or are unsure how
to perform the items listed here, have your dealer do them. Note: In addition to this manual, also check the relevant component
manufacturer's manual.
INSPECTION AND SERVICE BEFORE EACH USE
59
Item
Inspection / Service
Manual Section Reference
Breakaway Brakes
Check operation
Sections 0, 0
Breakaway Battery
Fully charged, connections clean
Sections 0, 0
Section 0
Brakes, all types
Check operation
Section 6.3
Shoes
Adjust
Section 6.2 0
Coupler and Hitch Ball
Check for cracks, pits, and flats. Replace
w/ball & coupler having trailer GVW Rating.
Grease.
Check locking device & replace.
Section 2.2.1.1
Section 2.2.1.2
Section 2.2.1.3 & 0
Gooseneck Ball
Check for cracks, pits, and flats. Replace
w/ball & coupler having trailer GVW Rating.
Grease.
Check locking device & replace when worn.
Section 0
Section 0
Section 0
Safety Chain(s) & Hooks
Check for wear and damage
Sections 0 & 0
Tires
Check tire pressure when cold. Inflate as
needed.
Sections 0 & 0
Wheels - Lug Nuts (Bolts) & Hub
Check for tightness
Tighten. For new and remounted wheels,
check torque after first 10, 25 & 50 miles of
driving and after any impact
Section 0
Sections 0 & 0
INSPECTION AND SERVICE EACH 3 MONTHS OR 3,000 MILES
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Item
Inspection / Service
Manual Section Reference
Structure
> Rumber Flooring
> Hinges, Doors and dividers
Wash floor
Inspect. Repair or replace damaged, worn or
broken parts
Section 0
Sections 0
INSPECTION AND SERVICE EACH 6 MONTHS OR 6,000 MILES
Item
Inspection / Service
Manual Section Reference
Tires
Rotate @ 5,000 miles
Section 0
Brakes, electric
> Magnets
> Controller (in tow vehicle)
Check wear and current draw
Check power output (amperage) and modulation
Section 0
Section 0
See Controller Mfr’s Manual
Structure
> Roof Vents
> Windows
Clean dirt buildup, lubricate hinges and slides
Section 0
Tires
Inspect tread and sidewalls thoroughly.
Replace tire when treads are worn, when
sidewall has a bulge, or sidewall is worn
Section 0
Section 0
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INSPECTION AND SERVICE EACH YEAR OR 12,000 MILES
Item
Inspection / Service
Manual Section Reference
Brakes, all types
> Shoes
Check for scoring and wear. Replace per
manufacturer’s specifications
Section 0
See Brake Mfr’s Manual
Jack, Drop-leg
Grease gears at top
See Jack Mfr’s Manual
Structure
> Frame members
>
Welds
Inspect all frame members, bolts & rivets.
Repair or replace damaged, worn or broken
parts.
Inspect all welds. Repair as needed
Section 0
Section 0
Wheels
> Sealed Bearings (Hubs)
UNSEALED Bearings (Hubs)
> Rims
Check and confirm free running. Replace if not
(sealed bearings are not serviceable)
Disassemble / inspect / assemble and repack.
Replace promptly if immersed in water
Inspect for cracks & dents. Replace as needed.
Section 0
Section 0
See Axle Mfr’s Manual
Section 0
Structure
> Axle Attachment Bolts
Check BY DEALER
Section 0
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8.2. INSPECTION AND SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS
AXLE BOLTS, FRAME, SUSPENSION, & STRUCTURE
^ WARNING
Worn or broken suspension parts can cause
loss of control and injury may result.
Have trailer professionally inspected annually
and after any impact.
For information regarding your axle, visit www.DexterAxle.com. Homesteader, LLC does not warranty the axle.
^ WARNING
Never crawl under your trailer unless it is on
firm and level ground and resting on properly
placed and secured jack stands.
TRAILER STRUCTURE
Because the trailer floor receives the most abuse, it will most likely corrode before any other part of the structure.
This is particularly true for horse trailers, having floors subjected to urine and manure. The urine and manure are
corrosive to the flooring and other structural parts of the trailer.
Using a power washer and a detergent solution, wash the floor and walls of the trailer.
FASTENERS AND FRAME MEMBERS
Inspect all of the fasteners and structural frame members for bending and other damage, cracks, or failure. Repair or
replace any damaged fastener and repair the frame member. If you have any questions about the condition or
method of repair of fasteners or frame members, get the recommendation of, or have the repair done by, your dealer.
The various fastener types used on your trailer are:
Bolts, which are used mainly for attaching door and gate hinges to the trailer body;
Screws, which are used to attach the sides and roof panels of the body to each other, and to the frame of the trailer.
WELDS
63
All welds can crack or fail when subjected to heavy loads or movement of cargo that was not properly tied to
prevent movement. Any time that you know or suspect that the trailer has been subjected to heavy loads or
movement of cargo, immediately inspect the welds and fasteners for damage. To prevent severe damage to your
trailer, inspect all of the welds for cracks or failure at least once a year.
DROP RAMP TORSION SPRINGS
If your trailer has a drop-ramp door, the weight of the door may be partially held by a torsion spring and a cable.
Stand to the side when opening the drop ramp. You could be hurt if you are behind the drop ramp and the
counterbalance does not work.
Inspect the cable and cable ends regularly for fraying and signs of loosening. If released, a torsion spring can inflict
serious injury.
The torsion spring and cable are not user serviceable. The torsion spring must be serviced by a person who is
trained in torsion spring safety.
TRAILER BRAKES
BRAKE SHOES
Properly functioning brake shoes are essential to ensure safety. You must have your dealer inspect these
components at least once per year, or each 12,000 miles.
The brake shoes must be adjusted after the first 200 miles of use, and each 3,000 miles thereafter. Most axles are
fitted with a brake mechanism that will adjust the brakes during a hard stop. Read your axle and brake manual to
see how to adjust your brakes.
MANUALLY ADJUSTING BRAKE SHOES
Some braking systems are not automatically adjusted by hard stopping. These brakes require manual adjustment.
The following steps apply to adjust most manually adjustable brakes. Read your axle and brake manual to see how
to adjust your brakes.
Jack up the trailer and secure it on adequate capacity jack stands.
Be sure the wheel and brake drum rotate freely.
Remove the adjusting-hole cover from the adjusting slot on the bottom of the brake backing plate.
With a screwdriver or standard adjusting tool, rotate the star wheel of the adjuster assembly to expand the brake
shoes. Adjust the brake shoes out until the pressure of the linings against the drum makes the wheel very
difficult to turn. Note: Your trailer maybe equipped with drop spindle axles. See axle manual for your axle
type. You will need a modified adjusting tool for adjusting the brakes in these axles. With drop spindle axles, a
modified adjusting tool with about an 80 degree angle should be used.
Rotate the star wheel in the opposite direction until the wheel turns freely with a slight drag.
Replace the adjusting-hole cover.
Repeat the above procedure on all brakes.
64
Lower the trailer to the ground.
BRAKES, ELECTRIC
Two different types of electric brakes may be present on the trailer: an emergency electric breakaway system, which
acts only if the trailer comes loose from the hitch and the breakaway pin is pulled. The other brake is an electric
braking system that acts whenever the brakes of the tow vehicle are applied.
BREAKAWAY BRAKE
BREAKAWAY BATTERY
This battery supplies the power to operate the trailer brakes if the trailer uncouples from the tow vehicle. Be sure to
check, maintain and replace the battery according to the battery manufacturer’ instructions.
BREAKAWAY SWITCH
This switch causes the breakaway battery to operate the electric brakes if the trailer uncouples from the tow vehicle.
The pull cable for the pull pin is connected to the tow vehicle, and the switch is connected to the trailer. To check
for proper functioning of the switch, battery and brakes, you must pull the pin from the switch and confirm that the
brakes apply to each wheel. You can do this by trying to pull the trailer with the tow vehicle, after pulling the pin.
The trailer brakes may not lock, but you will notice that a greater force is needed to pull the trailer.
^ WARNING
If electric breakaway brakes do not operate
when trailer is uncoupled from the tow
vehicle, death or serious injury can occur.
Check emergency breakaway brake system
BEFORE each tow.
TOW VEHICLE OPERATED ELECTRIC BRAKES
The electric brakes that operate in conjunction with the tow vehicle brakes must be “synchronized” so that braking is
properly distributed to the tow vehicle brakes and the trailer brakes. For proper operation and synchronization, read
and follow the axle/brake and the brake controller manufacturers’ instructions.
MAGNETS FOR ALL ELECTRIC BRAKES
To make certain an electrically-operated braking system will function properly, you must have your dealer inspect
the magnets at least once a year, or each 12,000 miles. See the brake manual for wear and current inspection
instructions.
TRAILER CONNECTION TO TOW VEHICLE
65
COUPLER AND BALL
The coupler on the trailer connects to the ball attached to the hitch on the tow vehicle. The coupler, ball and hitch
transfer the towing forces between the tow vehicle and the trailer. Before each tow, coat the ball with a thin layer of
automotive bearing grease to reduce wear and ensure proper operation; and check the locking device that secures the
coupler to the ball for proper operation.
See the coupler manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and maintenance activities.
If you see or feel evidence of wear, such as flat spots, deformations, pitting or corrosion, on the ball or coupler,
immediately have your dealer inspect them to determine the proper action to prevent possible failure of the ball and
coupler system. All bent or broken coupler parts must be replaced before towing the trailer.
The coupler handle lever must be able to rotate freely and automatically snap into the latched position. Oil the pivot
points, sliding surfaces, and spring ends with SAE 30W motor oil. Keep the ball pocket and latch mechanism clean.
Dirt or contamination can prevent proper operation of the latching mechanism.
When replacing a ball, the load rating must match or exceed the GVWR of the trailer.
GOOSENECK
The gooseneck receiver on the trailer connects to a hitch-mounted ball on the towing vehicle. The receiver, ball and
hitch transfer the towing forces between the tow vehicle and the trailer. Before each tow, coat the ball with a thin
layer of automotive bearing grease to reduce wear and ensure proper operation; and check the locking device that
secures the receiver to the ball for proper operation.
See the gooseneck ball receiver manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and maintenance activities.
If you see or can feel evidence of wear, such as flat spots, pitting or corrosion, on the ball or receiver, immediately
have your dealer inspect them to determine the proper action to prevent possible failure of the ball and receiver
system.
When replacing a ball, the load rating must match or exceed the GVWR of the trailer.
LANDING LEG OR JACK
If a grease fitting is present, you must use a grease gun to lubricate the jack mechanism. Grease the gears in the top
of hand-cranked jacks once a year, by removing the top of the jack and pumping or hand packing grease into the
gears.
LIGHTS AND SIGNALS
Before each tow, check the trailer taillights, stoplights, turn signals and any clearance lights for proper operation.
66
^ WARNING
Improper operating taillights, stoplights and
turn signals can cause collisions.
Check all lights before each tow.
ACCESSORY BATTERY
Your trailer may be outfitted with an accessory battery that operates lighting, electric landing gear, or other
accessories. An accessory battery may be kept charged either by the tow vehicle or by the generator or shore power.
See the manual for the accessory battery.
A disconnect switch may be provided to disconnect the accessory battery when you do not plan to be using the
trailer for an extended period, such as seasonal storage. If there is no disconnect switch, then remove the cables
from the battery terminals.
The accessory battery must be kept in a charged condition during storage. The battery could freeze and break if it
becomes discharged.
TIRES
Before each tow, be sure the tire pressure is at the value indicated on the sidewall. Tire pressure must be checked
while the tire is cold. Do not check the tire pressure immediately after towing the trailer. Allow at least three hours
for a tire to cool, if the trailer has been towed for as much as one mile. Replace the tire before towing the trailer if
the tire treads have less than 1/16 inch depth or the telltale bands are visible.
A bubble, cut or bulge in a side wall can result in a tire blowout. Inspect both side walls of each tire for any bubble,
cut or bulge; and replace a damaged tire before towing the trailer.
^ WARNING
Worn, damaged or under-inflated tires can
cause loss of control, resulting in damage,
serious injury and possibly death.
Inspect tires before each tow.
WHEEL RIMS
If the trailer has been struck, or impacted, on or near the wheels, or if the trailer has struck a curb, inspect the rims
for damage (i.e. being out of round); and replace any damaged wheel. Inspect the wheels for damage every year,
even if no obvious impact has occurred.
67
WHEELS, BEARINGS AND LUG NUTS
A loose, worn or damaged wheel bearing is the most common cause of brakes that grab.
To check your bearings, jack trailer and check wheels for side-to-side looseness. If the wheels are loose, or spin
with a wobble, the bearings must be serviced or replaced.
UNSEALED BEARINGS (HUBS)
If your trailer has unsealed axle bearings, they must be inspected and lubricated once a year or 12,000 miles to
insure safe operation of your trailer.
If a trailer wheel bearing is immersed in water, it must be replaced.
If your trailer has not been used for an extended amount of time, have the bearings inspected and packed more
frequently, at least every six months and prior to use.
Follow the steps below to disassemble and service the UNSEALED wheel bearings.
After removing the grease cap, cotter pin, spindle nut and spindle washer remove the hub and drum to inspect
the bearings for wear and damage.
Replace bearings that have flat spots on rollers, broken roller cages, rust or pitting. Always replace bearings
and cups in sets. The inner and outer bearings are to be replaced at the same time.
Replace seals that have nicks, tears or wear.
Lubricate the bearings with a high quality EP-2 automotive wheel bearing grease.
Every time the wheel hub is removed and the bearings are reassembled, follow the steps below to check the wheel
bearings for free running and adjust.
Turn the hub slowly, by hand, while tightening the spindle nut, until you can no longer turn the hub by hand.
Loosen the spindle nut just until you are able to turn it (the spindle nut) by hand. Do not turn the hub while the
spindle nut is loose.
Put a new cotter pin through the spindle nut and axle.
Check the adjustments. Both the hub and the spindle nut should be able to move freely (the spindle nut motion
will be limited by the cotter pin).
LUG NUTS (BOLTS)
Lug nuts are prone to loosen right after a wheel is mounted to a hub. When driving on a remounted wheel, check to
see if the lug nuts are tight after the first 10, 25 and 50 miles of driving and before each tow thereafter.
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^ WARNING
Lug nuts are prone to loosen after initial
installation, which can lead to death or serious
injury.
Check lug nuts for tightness on a new trailer or
when wheel(s) have been remounted after the
first 10, 25 and 50 miles of driving.
^ WARNING
Metal creep between the wheel rim and lug nuts
will cause rim to loosen and could result in a wheel
coming off, leading to death or serious injury.
Tighten lug nuts before each tow.
Tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque for the axle size on your trailer, to prevent wheels from coming loose. Use
a torque wrench to tighten the fasteners. If you do not have a torque wrench, tighten the fasteners with a lug wrench
as much as you can, then have a service garage or dealer tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque. Over-tightening
will result in breaking the studs or permanently deforming the mounting stud holes in the wheels.
Be sure to use only fasteners that match the cone angle of your wheel. The proper procedure for attaching you
wheels is as follows:
Start all nuts by hand to prevent cross threading.
Tighten the nuts in the following sequence:
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The tightening of the nuts should be done in stages. Follow the recommended sequence, tighten fasteners per the
wheel chart below.
Wheel nuts should be torqued before the first road use and after each wheel removal. Check and re-torque after the
first 10, 25, and again at 50 miles. Check periodically thereafter.
WHEEL TORQUE
Lug Nut Torque – Steel Wheels
Axle Rating
Pounds
Stud Size
Torque
Foot-pounds
3,500 to 7,000
½ inch
90 to 95
Lug Nut Torque – Aluminum Wheels
Rim Size
Stud Size
Torque
Foot-pounds
15 inch (5 or 6 hole)
½ inch
75 to 90
16 inch (8 hole)
½ inch
75 to 90
***Wheel/Axle Manufacturers Manual should be referenced for precise wheel torque. The above is a general guide.
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
HYDRAULIC FLUID AND RESERVOIR
HYDRAULIC FLUIDS
Hydraulic fluids in the following characteristics should be used: viscosity 80 ssu-360 ssu. Suggested viscosity is
between 130-210 ssu. The different oil grades must be chosen according to the ambient temperature and maximum
working pressure ambient
CORRECT FILLING AND OPERATING PROCEDURE:
Fill reservoir to within ½” from the top with all the cylinders in the fully retracted position. Note: do not use a
solid plug or a fill cap without a filter, breather element or damage will be caused to the pump and/or reservoir.
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PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH THE RESERVOIR
CLEAR OIL FLOWING OUT OF FILL HOLE USUALLY POINTS TO THE FOLLOWING.
Cylinders were not fully retracted when reservoir was filled
Reservoir is over-filled
FOAMY OIL FLOWING OUT OF THE FILL HOLE POINTS TO THE FOLLOWING:
Air is present in the system: that is, cylinders and fluid lines. The response usually is “spongy” and the cylinder
moves with “jerking “ motion
WATER IN THE OIL:
Water can enter the reservoir through the fill hole if the unit is washed with a high pressure washer.
Protect the unit, whenever, and change oil if contamination occurs.
TROUBLE SHOOTING YOUR HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
MOTOR FAILS TO START – POSSIBLE CAUSE:
Improper voltage to motor
Motor start solenoid switch
“Open” circuit
Motor
Dead battery or corroded terminals
UNIT WILL NOT RAISE – POSSIBLE CAUSE:
Improper Ground
Insufficient oil in reservoir
Cylinder overload
Worn Pump
Low Voltage
UNIT WILL NOT LOWER – POSSIBLE CAUSE:
Pressure Relief Valve (valves) set too lose
System Filter
Electrical Switch
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“Open” Circuit
Low Voltage
UNIT DRIFTS WITH POWER OFF – POSSIBLE CAUSE:
Leakage Through Pump
Leakage Through Valve
Leakage at Cylinder
MOTOR RUNS SLOW AND SLUGGISH – POSSIBLE CAUSE:
Low Charged Battery
Low Voltage
Pressure Relief Value
Leakage at Cylinder
Insufficient Oil in Reservoir
Cylinder Overload
Corroded Terminals
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9. WIRING BASICS
9.1. TOW VEHICLE WIRING
When something goes wrong with the lights on a trailer, it is assumed the problem is in the trailer. Frequently,
the problem is in the tow vehicle. First of all, make sure all the lights are working correctly on the tow vehicle. Once
this is verified, go to the connection at the tow vehicle and test there. Prove that the tow vehicle is putting out the
correct voltages on the correct connector pins. Use a bulb with two test leads, or you can also use a LED (light
emitting diode) tester that plugs into the tow vehicle plug (receptacle).
9.2. COMMON TOW VEHICLE PROBLEMS
If the test light never comes on when testing the vehicle plug, then the problem is probably a broken ground wire
or a bad ground connection. Trace the white wire from the plug back to where it connects to the vehicle frame. If it
doesn't connect to the vehicle frame, then connect it there. A good connection requires a crimp termination (round
lug) on the end of the wire, a metal screw or a bolt and a self-locking nut, and a star washer. The frame connection
point should be bare shiny metal. To test this connection point, turn on the vehicle's running lights and connect the
test bulb between this point on the frame and the running light wire pin on the vehicle plug. The light should come
on.
If this connection point is good, then check for an open or broken ground wire. If the test light fails to come on at
one pin, then you probably have an open wire going to the jack. Retrace the wire back to its connection point and
ensure the wire is not broken. Also check to see if it has a clean, mechanical sound connection that is protected from
the weather elements. If in doubt, redo the connection.
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If the test light comes on at too many pins on the vehicle's plug, then the wires are probably shorted together
somewhere. Retrace the wires back to their connection points and look for places where two or more wires are
pinched together. If the wires are good, make sure the connection points are not shorted. If the connections are
physically right next to each other, separate them a couple of inches to avoid the potential for a short circuit.
If the test light comes on at the wrong pin, then the wires are probably connected to the wrong connection points.
Retrace the wires to the connection points and reconnect them correctly. One of the things to keep in mind about tow
vehicles is they are not all alike.
9.3.TRAILER WIRING
The lights on a trailer are an extension of the tow vehicle lights. The wiring for these lights start at the tongue of
the trailer. The ground wire or white wire from the trailer plug connects to the trailer frame. The ground connection
can be a defective mechanical connection which can lead to problems. If in doubt, redo the connection to ensure a
clean, mechanical sound connection that is protected from the elements. To relieve any strain on the ground wire,
splice in a short length of additional wire and use a cable clamp to secure the wire to the trailer tongue.
9.4. TRAILER TROUBLESHOOTING BASICS
The most important part of troubleshooting a trailer problem is a good visual inspection. Check all ground
connections and make sure they are clean, mechanical sound connections that are protected from the elements.
Examine all bulbs and light fixtures up close. Look for water trapped inside the light fixtures. Look for discolored
bulbs. When in doubt, fix the connection or replace the bulb or fixture.
The first test should be one of the turn/brake lights circuits. These are the simplest circuits, usually only one bulb
filament is involved, sometimes two. If you are using a battery charger, connect the negative cable to the white wire
pin (ground) on the trailer plug and connect the positive battery charger lead to the left turn wire pin. If you are
using a tow vehicle, turn the left turn signal on. The left turn light should come on. If it doesn't, first check the bulb,
then the wiring to it. If one of the lights on the other side comes on, see the Strange Trailer Light Problems
discussion below. After checking the left turn light, check the right one. Leave the battery charger on the white wire
pin and move the other lead to the right turn wire pin; or turn the tow vehicle's right turn signal on. The right turn
light should come on. When you test the turn signals, you also check the brake lights. They are the same circuits.
The last check should be the running lights. Leave the battery charger on the white wire pin and move the other
lead to the running light wire pin; or turn the tow vehicle's right turn signal off and turn on the parking lights. All the
trailer running lights should be on. If not, check the bulbs, then the ground connections, then the wiring.
9.5. STRANGE TRAILER LIGHT PROBLEMS
Some of the strange symptoms of bad ground connections are things like: the lights on the wrong side of the
trailer come on; the lights on one side are brighter; the lights are on, but they're dim. Here's what's happening when
these type of symptoms show up. Some of the bulbs on the trailer have two filaments in them.
One filament is for the running lights, the other is for the turn/brake lights. Each filament has a wire going to it.
Both filaments use the same return, the base case which is connected to the vehicle's frame or ground. Under normal
situations, current (hole current) flows from the positive terminal of the battery, through the wire to the filament,
through the filament, through the base, through the ground, through the vehicle frame back to the battery negative
terminal.
If the ground connection is bad then the current is disrupted. The current (hole current) flows from the positive
terminal of the battery, through the wire to the filament, through the filament, through the base, then it should go out
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to the ground. However, if the ground is bad the current goes back from the base through the other filament,
through the wire to the bulb on the other side of the trailer, through that filament, through that base, through that
ground, through the vehicle frame back to the battery’s negative terminal. When all this happens, the filaments won't
have the full voltage across them, so they will be dimmer, but on one side two filaments could be lit and that should
appear brighter unless the other side filament is the brake filament. When things start appearing strange, start
looking at the ground connections.
In summary, trailer wiring problems can appear to be complicated. However, a systematic approach based on
eliminating things that are proven good can help focus in on the problem. Also, when things start appearing strange,
check the ground connections.
