Airstream Nest 2020, Owner'S Manual

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Towing
2020 Nest
7-7
Sway or fishtailing of your recreation vehicle can be
controlled and is primarily impacted by four factors:
• Equipment
• Tongue Weight
• Driving
• Corrective Measures
Equipment
When hitched together, the trailer and the tow vehicle
must be level. The tires of both the trailer and tow
vehicle should be in good condition and properly
inflated to their recommended pressures.
Braking is a very important factor in vehicle control.
Refer to Brakes (and Electronic Brake Controller) in
this section.
We recommend a friction sway damper or hitch with
built-in sway control be provided for your unit. Please
consult your dealer regarding this equipment. Also,
refer to Sway Control Device in this section for more
information.
Tongue weight
Refer to Weighing Your Trailer and, also, Equalizing
Hitch Load Distribution in this section.
Driving
This is the most important component. The tendency
for the vehicle to sway increases with speed therefore,
obey all speed limits and reduce speed during
inclement weather or windy conditions.
Corrective Measures
If sway occurs, the following techniques should be
used:
1. Slow down immediately, remove your foot from the
accelerator. Avoid using the tow vehicle brakes
unless there is a danger of collision. Reduce speed
gradually whenever possible. If you can do so
safely, use the brake hand controller to gently and
progressively apply the trailer brakes. This will help
to keep the vehicles aligned. Practice using the
brake hand controller on a deserted parking lot.
Do not wait until an emergency occurs before using
it. Location of the brake hand controller is important
and should be made easily accessible.
2. Steer as little as possible while maintaining control
of the vehicle. Because of natural reaction lag
time, quick steering movements to counter trailer
sway will actually cause increased sway and loss
of control. Keep both hands on the wheel. Hold
the wheel as straight as possible until stability is
regained.
3. Once the swaying is under control, stop as soon
as possible. Check tire pressures, cargo weight
distribution, and look for any signs of mechanical
failure. Travel at reduced speeds that permit full
control until the problem can be identified and
corrected.
WARNING
Do not jam on the brakes or attempt to press on the
accelerator to speed your way out of the fishtailing.
Both actions make the situation worse and could
cause severe injury or death.
Sway Control Device
Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch
manufacturer’s field of expertise and performed formal
testing, we find the vast majority of Airstream owners
purchase sway-control devices.
When passed by large trucks or when exposed
to sudden crosswinds, the trailer will be pushed
and this action will be felt in the tow vehicle. It is
our understanding that the sway control device
will reduce the amount of movement, make towing
more comfortable, and add some safety. Follow the
directions of the sway control manufacturer when
having the device installed and when using it.