the loaded trailer at a commercial scale. In addition, you must distribute the load in the trailer such that the load on any axle does
not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR.) The GVWR and GAWR are located on the OEM certification and VIN label
attached to the front frame of the trailer.
Never exceed the trailer Gross Vehicle Weight Rating or the Gross Axle Weight Rating. Do not load a trailer so that the weight
on any tire exceeds its rating.
Improper front/rear load distribution can lead to trailer sway and poor handling conditions. Undesirable trailer sway results from
tongue weights that are too low, while tow vehicle instability results from tongue weights that are too high.
Uneven left/right load distribution can cause tire, wheel, axle or structural failure. To the extent possible, be sure your trailer is
evenly loaded left/right. Towing stability also depends on keeping the center of gravity as low as possible.
Make certain the tongue weight is within the allowable range. Keep the center of gravity as low as possible.
•
Unsecured loads
Your trailer may be designed for specific cargo, such as reels, or poles. If your trailer is designed for specific cargo, do not carry
any other cargo such as people, hazardous substances or containers of flammable materials.
It is important to avoid shifting cargo. The trailer ride can be bumpy and rough. Securing cargo so that it does not shift or bounce
out of the trailer is imperative. Tie down all loads with proper sized fasteners. Always secure doors or lids if present on your trail-
er by securing it's latch.
•
Improper braking and steering under sway conditions
When towing a trailer, you will have decreased acceleration, increased stopping distance, and increased turning radius. The
trailer will change the handling characteristics of your towing vehicle, making it more sensitive to steering inputs and more likely
to be have its stability affected in windy conditions or when passed by large vehicles. You will also need to adjust driving accord-
ingly, i.e. taking a longer distance to pass and allowing for increased braking distances, etc.
Common sense measures may be necessary, such as; being alert for slippery conditions, anticipate trailer sway and be ready to
reduce speed, use small, trim-like steering adjustments to re-gain control, check rear view mirrors frequently to evaluate trailer
towing and traffic conditions, use a lower gear when driving downhill or on long grades, be aware of your trailer height at all
times, especially when approaching bridges and roofed areas.
•
Improper or incorrect coupling of the trailer to the hitch
It is critical that the trailer be securely coupled to the hitch, and that the safety chains and emergency break-away cable (electric
brakes) and air hoses (air brakes) are correctly attached. Uncoupling of the trailer during transit can lead to a serious accident or
a fatality.
Ensure that the pintle hook capacity rating, including installation, is sufficient for the GVWR and the tongue weight of the trailer
being towed. Make sure that the pintle hook is physically compatible with the trailer drawbar. Compatibility information is avail-
able from the pintle hook manufacturer.
Observe the drawbar and pintle hook for wear, corrosion and cracks before coupling. Replace worn, cracked or corroded com-
ponents per the manufacturer's recommendations.
Ensure the hitch drawbar and pintle hook are installed with grade-8 fasteners and are properly torqued before coupling to the
tow vehicle.
Do not move the trailer if any of the following conditions appear:
•
The drawbar is not secured and locked to the pintle hook.
•
The safety chains are not secured to the tow vehicle. If your trailer detaches from the pintle hook for any reason, we
have provided safety chains so that control of the trailer can still be maintained. Improper rigging of the safety chains
could result in loss of control. Fasten chains to the frame of the towing vehicle. Do not fasten chains to any part of the
hitch unless the hitch has special holes or loops specifically designed for that purpose. Cross chains underneath hitch
and coupler with enough slack to permit turning and to suspend the trailer tongue should it become detached.
Operation & Maintenance Manual
Model 1570-B Puller
09/2010
Page 2
