Double A Trailers Gooseneck Series, Owner'S Manual

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10
2.2.10 u
nSafe
l
oad
d
IStrIButIon
Improper front/rear load distribution can lead to an
unstable trailer or poor tow vehicle handling. Poor
trailer stability results from tongue weights that are too
low, and poor tow vehicle stability results from tongue
weights that are too high.
Refer to the “Loading And Unloading” section for more
information.
The rule of thumb is that 20-25% percentage of total
weight of the trailer plus its cargo (Gross Trailer Weight,
or “GTW”) that should be on the tongue of the trailer.
For example, a gooseneck trailer with a loaded weight
of 6,000 pounds, should have 20-25% of 6,000 pounds
(1200-1500 lbs.) on the hitch.
The numbers quoted are for example purposes only
and should be tailored to the specific trailer.
For questions regarding the actual percent of tongue
weight for the trailer, check with the manufacturer
for specifics.
The trailer will have the proper weight distribution if
the load is evenly distributed. After loading, be sure to
check that none of the axles are overloaded.
Uneven left/right load distribution can cause tire, wheel,
axle or structural failure.
Be sure your trailer is evenly loaded left / right. Towing
stability also depends on keeping the center of gravity
as low as possible.
^
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 evenly, right and left.
• Keep the center of gravity low.
• Distribute the load front-to-rear to provide
proper tongue weight.
Load must be evenly distributed
throughout the trailer.
2.2.11 S
hIftIng
c
argo
Since the trailer “ride” can be bumpy and rough, you
must secure the cargo so that it does not shift while the
trailer is being towed.
^
WARNING
A shifting load can result in failure, or to
loss of control of the trailer, and can lead
to death or serious injury.
You must tie down all loads with proper
sized fasteners, chains, straps, etc. to
prevent the load from shifting while
towing.
2.2.12 I
napproprIate
c
argo
The trailer may be designed for specific cargo. If your
trailer is designed for specific cargo, only carry that
cargo in the trailer. A trailer must not be used to carry
certain items, such as people, containers of hazardous
substances or containers of flammable substances.
^
WARNING
Do not transport people on your trailer.
Besides putting their lives at risk, the
transport of people on a trailer is illegal.
Safety