TrailMax 8012DT, Manual

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page 10
8012DT
1.8 Hook-Up Procedures
TRAILER HOOK-UP
The consequences of not properly hooking the trailer to the tow vehicle
can be very serious. Failure to adhere to information in this section could
lead to the trailer becoming detached, the trailer brakes and/or lights not
working correctly, or other unsafe situations which could result in an acci-
dent causing property damage, bodily injury or death.
Connect the tow vehicle to the trailer and check that the coupler is completely latched.
Be sure that a safety pin is inserted to ensure coupler will not unlatch during transport.
Connect the electrical plug from the trailer’s harness to the receptacle of the tow ve-
hicle. Check all lights on the trailer to make sure they are working correctly with the tow
vehicle’s electrical system.
Be sure the landing leg and drop foot are fully retracted and the crank handle is
stowed in transport position. For trailers with 2-speed jacks, use low gear for raising
and lower the jack under load, and high gear for raising and lowering the leg when it is
off the ground.
Check all safety chains and their attachment to both the trailer and the towing ve-
hicle. Connect safety chains to tow vehicle using crossed pattern under tongue. Allow
slack for turning, but avoid having chains drag on pavement. Make certain that all
attachment devices are properly installed and in good working order.
For trailers with air brakes, connect the Glad Hands (one service and one emer-
gency) to tow vehicle. Shut off petcock(s) on air tank(s) or if already shut, open to
exhaust all moisture, then shut off. It is very important that the air system be drained of
moisture after each use to keep all components functioning properly and to make equip-
ment safe.
Trailers with electric brakes or hydraulic surge brakes come equipped with an emer-
gency breakaway device. The breakaway system is designed to operate after the cou-
pling system has failed. Connect breakaway chain S-hook to bumper or hitch on tow
vehicle. Allow slack for turning, but avoid letting chain drag on pavement. Provide as
straight a connection as possible.
Always check that trailer brakes are working properly. If trailer is equipped with electric
brakes, use brake controller to adjust for load.
The breakaway system is for emergencies and is not a parking brake.
The following paragraphs pertain to trailers with hydraulic surge brakes:
Operation
WARNING
!