TRAILER SAFETY PROCEDURES Before Towing – Every Use
- Check Hitch/Ball on Vehicle for Correct Size, Rating and Damage.
- Make Sure Hitch/Ball is Secure.
- Check Lubrication on Hitch/Ball.
- Inspect Coupler/Pintle for Damage, Cracks & Wear.
- Latch & Secure Coupler/Pintle.
- Check Master Cylinder/Actuator (Hydraulic Brakes) forLeaks & Damage. (If Applicable)
- Latch & Secure Safety Chains to Vehicle.
- Retract Jack(s).
- Secure All Bolts, Nuts, Latches and Pins: Coupler Pins/Bolts & Nuts, Ramp Pins, Gate Latches/Pins, Gate Bolts/Nuts, Tilt Pins, Etc.
- Check Signal, Brake and Running Lights.
- Check Lug Nuts. (See Torque Chart and Sequence)
- Check Air Pressure in Tires (PSI- located on Labels and Tires)
- Check Wear on Tires.
- Inspect Hubs for Missing Grease/Oil Caps or Leaks.
- Check Trailer Brakes for Proper Function.
- Check Breakaway – Battery Charge and Switch Operation.(If Applicable)
- Attach Breakaway Cable to Vehicle. (If Applicable)
Carrying Cargo – Before Towing
1. Make Sure Cargo Load Does Not Exceed Carrying Capacity or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) Designated for Trailer, Axles, and Tires – Stated on Certificate, Title and Labels.
2. Make Sure Trailer is Securely Attached to Towing Vehicle Before Loading/Unloading.When Using Ramps, Blocking Rear of Trailer May Be Necessary.
3. When Using Ramps, Blocking Rear of Trailer May Be Necessary.
4. Make Sure Cargo Weight is Properly Distributed.
5. Make Sure Cargo Load is Secure.
6. Make Sure Your Trailer is Towing in a Level Position. Unlevel Towing or Improper Load Distribution Can Cause Axle/Tire Overload, Which Can Cause Excessive Tire Wear, or Bending Axle.
7. Trailer Load on Hitch is Recommended at Approximately 10% – 15% of Total Weight.
NOTE: State and Local Brake Requirements May Vary From State to State.