Holiday 2002 NEPTUNE, Owner'S Manual

Page: 45 / 344

Driving & Safety
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2 0 0 2 N E P T U N E
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Backing Up Trailers:
Trailers have only one pivot point. Trailers may be backed up. Towed vehi-
cles using a tow bar or tow dolly have more than one pivoting point which makes
this type of equipment not suitable for backing. If using this type of towing
equipment, plan ahead. Park safely along the road and walk a distance if necessary
to avoid a possible back up situation. Avoid putting the motorhome and tow
vehicle in a backing situation. To back up this combination, completely
disconnect the tow vehicle from motorhome. Trying to back up the motorhome
with a tow vehicle connected will result in damage to the motorhome, tow vehi-
cle and towing device.
The same rules for backing a motorhome may be applied when backing a
trailer. When preparing to back a trailer into a space, maneuver the motorhome
sweeping wide, then turn back to the opposite direction. This will set the
motorhome and trailer in a position to maneuver the trailer into space. When
backing a trailer, the driver may become disoriented with the direction of the
steering wheel and the direction of the trailer. The bottom of the steering wheel
must be moved in the desired direction of the trailer. For example: If the
desired direction of the trailer is left, rotate the bottom of the steering wheel
left. If the trailer moves in an undesired direction, use a short “pull-up”
method, pulling forward just far enough to align the trailer with the space. The
co-pilot should stand safely at the left rear corner of the trailer within view of
the driver in the driver side mirror, using the five hand signals for guiding.
CAUTION: Tow bars or car dollies generally are made to
travel in a forward direction only. Most towing equipment
of this type is not designed for backing. Never attempt short
back up distances with a tow bar or tow dolly. Damage to
the motorhome, vehicle or towing device will result.