Valor 18385, Owner'S Manual

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Section 1 Operation
1.0 Introduction
This section describes how trailers can have different operational characteristics based on
design, load configuration, gross weights, suspension characteristics, articulation and extreme
differences between loaded and unloaded weights.
Trailers have safe operating limits just as automobiles, airplanes, and other vehicles. The
interaction of the vehicle characteristics, maintenance, load, roadway, weather, the skill of the driver
and vehicle speed affect these limits. Knowledge of how these factors affect the vehicle’s operating
limits and utilization of defensive driving techniques should result in safer driving.
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this section is to describe how the vehicle characteristics, maintenance, road
conditions, and weather can affect trailer control and stability limits, and how driver awareness and
skill can help compensate for these factors. This knowledge will assist you to safely enjoy the
maximum utility and productivity from your trailer.
First and foremost, DO NOT operate the trailer until you have read and fully understand this
instruction and operating manual. It is also important that each and every person who operates the
trailer be given the opportunity to read this manual.
1.2 Rating
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the rated load-carrying capacity of an individual axle and
wheel assembly. It represents the load that may be steadily sustained by the components in the
system; i.e., tires, wheels, hubs, bearings, axles, brakes, suspension, sub-frame, etc. with the GAWR
limited by the component with the lowest working rating.
Consideration of environmental and operational factors may require the manufacturer to reduce the
nominal rating.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum rated combined weight of a trailer and
its payload (uniformly distributed) based on its structural capabilities.
1.3 Design and Safety Factors
Valor Trailers are designed with a MAXIMUM load capacity, in ideal conditions,
to ensure a level of safety that can withstand all types of dynamic and static loading
conditions. Under dynamic conditions the trailer encounters shifting weight, vibrations,
shocks, and twists that elevate the stress levels with-in the major weight bearing
components of the trailer. Considering this, VALOR TRAILERS SHOULD NOT BE
LOADED PAST THE RATED CAPACITY AND SHOULD BE LOADED IN
CONSIDERATION WITH THE LOAD WARNING STICKER.