Lug Nuts
Prior to each outing, check that the lug nuts have retained the
correct torque. It is critical to use the correctly sized wrench when
tightening or loosening lug nuts. (At present, Malibu is using ¾” lug
nuts on all trailers.) The wrong size wrench can cause the lug nuts
to become rounded off, which can make them impossible to use.
Never tow a trailer with a missing lug nut or lug nuts. Having the
complete number of lug nuts, properly torqued, is critical for both
long-term use of the product and for road safety. Even one fewer lug
nut can apply stress to the remaining lug nuts and the hub, which
could result in failure.
Do not replace lug nuts, even missing ones, with lug nuts other
than those available through an authorized Malibu trailer dealer. The
lug nut seat angle must match the wheel seat angle. The assembly
uses a specified lug nut selected for the kind of use the trailer will
need. Even if the threads match, unapproved lug nuts may not hold
the wheel securely enough. Lug nuts on each wheel should always
match.
The torque applied when securing the lug nuts is also extremely
important. If it is under-tightened, a lug nut can work loose under
operation and come off. An over-tightened lug nut can strip the
threads and come off.
Check the lug nut torque after the first
50 miles of trailer use. Then the lug nut
torque should be checked every month
afterwards that the trailer is used, and always checked prior to
use if the trailer has been in storage or not used for a period of at
least two weeks. Failure to do so could result in lug nuts loosening
or dislodging from the wheel assembly. Such activity can have
catastrophic results, including loss of tow vehicle and/or trailer
control, which could result in serious injury or death.
Lug nuts must also be correctly sized and
specified for each trailer wheel. Failure to
properly install and maintain the lug nuts
could result in the trailer wheel coming off during operation. Such
failure can result in serious injury or death, as well as property damage.
Follow these instructions for ensuring proper installation and
torque for the lug nuts:
• Use a torque wrench. No other wrenches or similar tools are
appropriate for use, except in an emergency.
• Keep a record of readings. If a lug nut or nuts routinely loses
torque, it is symptomatic of a bigger problem that should be
brought to the attention of your authorized Malibu trailer dealer
to remedy.
• Use the pattern to the right to
tighten lug nuts: On the first
round, tighten to 45 ft. lbs. Tighten
a second time to 70 ft. lbs. Tighten
again to 90 ft. lbs. And on the
final time, tighten to 120 ft. lbs.
Do this in a star pattern; do not
simply go around clockwise or
counterclockwise. The cross effort
will ensure a correct reading.
Trailers—119
