13
S
AFETY
I
NFORMATION
It is important to follow appropriate and safe practices when towing your trailer. Losing control
of you trailer can result in serious injury or death; common causes for loss of control include:
•
Inappropriate driving speeds
•
Improper handling of the vehicle
•
Overloading and uneven loading of the trailer
•
Improperly coupled to the hitch
•
Inadequate or inappropriate towing vehicle and hitch
•
Improper tire pressure and wearing on the tires
•
Loose lug nuts
•
Improper trailer structure maintenance
This owner’s manual only provides inf
ormation for the SW9F trailer, and does not cover the
necessary details specific for your towing vehicle and hitch. You must read and understand
the directions given in the manuals of your towing vehicle and hitch, and follow those
instructions along with the instructions given in this manual.
I
NAPPROPRIATE
D
RIVING
S
PEEDS
You must adjust your usual driving habits when towing a trailer.
In ideal road conditions, the recommended towing speed is 60 mph. Drive any faster, and there
is a possibility of overheating the tires, and losing control of the trailer. Never exceed the
recommended towing speed. In inclement weather, you will need to significantly reduce your
speed to keep control of the trailer. Driving too fast in inclement conditions can result in loss of
control and serious injury or death.
I
MPROPER
H
ANDLING OF THE
V
EHICLE
Handling a vehicle while towing a trailer is significantly different than driving just a vehicle. To
properly handle towing your trailer, remember towing a trailer significantly affects the
following:
•
Decreased acceleration; you will not be able to speed up as quickly as you’re accusto
med
to. This will also affect the time it takes to pass other vehicles
•
Increased stopping distance; it can take a significantly longer amount of time and
distance to stop your vehicle. Account for this when braking for traffic and stop lights
