TrailMax TD-24-T(5+20), Manual

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TD-24-T (5+20)
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Operation
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1.8 Pre-Trip Inspection
There are some items on every vehicle combination that can be and should be
inspected prior to every trip that require no special knowledge, training, or sophisti-
cated equipment.
Before beginning a trip, make a thorough visual inspection of the trailer for cracks
in the structure, or bent components such as the tongue or frame. Check for any miss-
ing fasteners in suspension as well as other areas, and look for broken or bent springs
and spring hangers or otherwise damaged components.
Verify that the hitch on the tow vehicle is the correct size and configuration to fit the
trailer coupling. The hitch must be rated to meet or exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR) of the trailer.
Check the hitch height of the trailer and compare it to the tow vehicle; it is very
important that the trailer be towed in the level position when loaded. In order to achieve
the correct hitch height, elevate the tongue of the trailer slightly (1" to 2") by adjusting
the trailer hitch to compensate for settling of tow vehicle springs when loaded.
Always visually inspect hitch for unusual appearances such as bent components,
cracks in welds or chipped paint where stress cracks may appear from high loads.
Check tires for proper inflation. Tire manufacturers recommend checking inflation
pressure while trailer is not loaded and tires are cool. This will provide a more accurate
reading. A drop of 10 PSI in tire pressure can reduce the carrying capacity of the tire as
much as 20%. This reduced capacity could cause tire failure and poor tire life.
Maintaining proper wheel nut torque value is essential to prevent wheel end sepa-
ration or potential damage to the hub or wheel. Always check wheel nuts every 50 to
100 miles for the first 200 miles of operation, then periodically thereafter. The same
procedure should be repeated after dismount and remount of wheels. It is important to
follow the specified tightening sequence recommended in the tire maintenance section
of this manual.