Airstream INTERNATIONAL TRAILER, Owner'S Manual, Page: 24 / 138

AIRSTREAM INTERNATIONAL TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
B-10
Passing
When going downhill in dry weather, down shift so that engine compression will slow the whole rig clown.
Take dips and depressions in the road slowly and do not resume normal driving speeds until you are sure
that the trailer wheels are clear of the dip.
WARNING
: On slippery pavement do not use engine drag to help slow down as this may
cause the rear wheels of the tow vehicle to skid. On icy pavement drive slowly and if you feel the tow
vehicle skidding gently apply the trailer brakes only. This will bring the tow vehicle and trailer back
into a single line. Chains do not help trailer wheels.
CAUTION:
When driving in mud and sand let the momentum carry the rig through. Apply
power gently and use as little as possible. Stay in the tracks of the vehicle ahead and keep the tow
vehicle in the highest possible gear. If you get stuck it is best to tow out the entire rig together without
unhitching.
Despite the best hitch you will notice that whenever a large bus or truck overtakes your rig the displaced
air, first pushes the trailer rear slightly to the right and then affects the front. It may be necessary to steer
very slightly, momentarily, toward the bus or truck to help compensate for the sway induced by the
passing-vehicle. Do not apply the vehicle brakes, as this can tend to exaggerate the situation. You may find,
however, that briefly applying the trailer brakes with your manual control will help eliminate sway.
WARNING:
When stopping on a hill or slope, leaving your car in gear is not enough for
standstill safety. CHOCK THE TRAILER WHEELS to be double sure. Do not use trailer brakes as
parking brakes
.