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WHEEL LUG NUT TORQUE – Critically Important!
Proper and consistent lug nut torque is essential to safe operation of the trailer. Wheels on trailers are different from wheel
on autos in that trailer wheels are subject to high side load stresses when the trailer makes a turn. These types of side load
may flex the wheel and cause gradual loosing of the lug nuts.
The lug nuts have been checked prior to leaving the manufacturing facility, however “wearing in” of the wheel during initial
travel causes potential loosening of the lug nuts.
The lug nuts must be checked prior to every trip, and every 50 miles for the first 500 miles of use. The proper lug nut
torque for a steel wheel or aluminum wheel (with steel insert) is 115 ft. /lb.
Always use an accurate torque wrench to inspect or tighten lug nuts. Proper torque can only be achieved with use of a
calibrated torque wrench and socket using the tightening sequence depicted below. Refer to your torque wrench operator
guide for calibration information for your specific torque wrench. Always use a torque wrench, do no use any wrench or
ratchet other than a torque wrench.
Over-tightening or under-tightening of the lug nuts may result in wheel separation causing serious
injury or death.
CHANGING A SPARE TIRE
1.
If changing a tire by roadside, place reflective triangles or flares at appropriate distances from your vehicle as a
warning to other motorists.
2.
Place a chock or block behind and in front of the wheels on opposite side of the wheel requiring replacement.
3.
Place a jack at appropriate position under main frame rail. In most trailers the jack should be placed directly under
the main frame rail adjacent to the wheel requiring replacement.
4.
Slightly loosen the lug nuts.
5.
Raise the trailer until the tire clears the ground.
6.
Remove the lug nuts and wheel/tire assembly.
7.
Verify your spare tire/ wheel is of the exact type and specifications as the original tire/wheel.
8.
Install spare tire and tighten lug nuts until wheel is tight against the hub.
9.
Lower the trailer.
10.
Follow a three stage lug nut torque process.
1.
Torque the lug nuts to 30 ft./lb. using a torque wrench and following the lug nut
torque pattern prescribed above.
2.
Torque the lug nuts to 75 ft./lb. using a torque wrench and following the lug nut
torque pattern.
3.
Torque the lug nuts to a final 115 ft./lb. using a torque wrench and following the lug
nut torque pattern.
11.
Recheck the torque after 10, 25, 50, and 200 miles.
Summary of Contents for Ever-Lite 2010
Page 1: ...Owner s Manual...