Section 3 - Coupling To The Tow Vehicle
R6 3/30/2017
Page 36
Drop Leg Jack Mechanism – Figure 3-14
3.2.2.f Rig the Safety Chains
•
Visually inspect the safety chains and hooks for
wear or damage. Replace worn or damaged
safety chains and hooks before towing.
•
Rig the safety chains so that they attach to the
“safety chain receivers” on the tow vehicle. If
you are not certain of the hitch provisions for
receiving safety chains, contact the hitch
manufacturer or installer. Do NOT attach the
safety chains to the gooseneck ball or its
support; and
•
Rig the safety chains so they have sufficient
slack to permit turning, but not too much slack
– the safety chains must keep the gooseneck on
the tow vehicle bed if the trailer uncouples.
See figure 3-15.
Safety Chain Arrangement – Figure 3-15
^ WARNING
Improper rigging of the safety chains can
result in loss of control of the trailer and
tow vehicle, leading to death or serious
injury, if the trailer uncouples from the tow
vehicle.
•
Fasten chains to safety chain receivers
on the hitch, not to ball.
•
Have sufficient slack to permit turning
and to keep gooseneck on bed of tow
vehicle, if the trailer comes loose.
3.2.2.g Attach and Test the Breakaway Brake
System
If the coupler or hitch fails, a properly connected
and working breakaway brake system will apply
electric brakes on the trailer. The safety chains will
keep the tow vehicle attached and as the brakes are
applied at the trailer’s axles, the trailer/tow vehicle
combination will come to a controlled stop. See
figure 3-16.
The breakaway brake system includes a breakaway
brake controller, battery, and a switch with a
pullpin, and lanyard. Read and follow the
instructions here as well as the instructions that
have been prepared by the breakaway brake
controller manufacturer.
Breakaway Brake Connection – Figure 3-16
The breakaway brake system may be fitted with a
charging facility that draws power from the tow
vehicle. If the electrical system on your tow vehicle
does not provide power to the breakaway brake
battery you must periodically charge the battery on
Summary of Contents for Horse Trailer
Page 1: ...OWNER S MANUAL ENCLOSED TRAILERS...
Page 4: ......
