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6
6-67
Safety chains
You should always attach chains between
your vehicle and your trailer.
Instructions about safety chains may be
provided by the hitch manufacturer or
trailer manufacturer. Follow the
manufacturer’s recommendation for
attaching safety chains. Always leave just
enough slack so you can turn with your
trailer. And, never allow safety chains to
drag on the ground.
Trailer brakes
If your trailer is equipped with a braking
system, make sure it conforms to your
country’s regulations and that it is
properly installed and operating
correctly.
If your trailer weighs more than the
maximum trailer weight without trailer
brakes loaded, then it needs its own
brakes and they must be adequate. Be
sure to read and follow the instructions
for the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to
install, adjust and maintain them
properly. Be sure not to modify your
vehicle’s brake system.
WARNING
Do not use a trailer with its own brakes
unless you are absolutely certain that you
have properly set up the brake system.
This is not a task for amateurs. Use an
experienced, competent trailer shop for
this work.
Driving with a Trailer
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount
of experience. Before setting out for the
open road, you must get to know your
trailer. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
handling and braking with the added
weight of the trailer. And always keep in
mind that the vehicle you are driving is
now longer and not nearly as responsive
as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch
and platform, safety chains, electrical
connector(s), lights, tires and brakes.
During your trip, occasionally check to be
sure that the load is secure, and that the
lights and trailer brakes are still working.
Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the
vehicle ahead as you would when driving
your vehicle without a trailer. This can
help you avoid situations that require
heavy braking and sudden turns.
Passing
You will need more passing distance up
ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And,
because of the increased vehicle length,
you’ll need to go much farther beyond the
passed vehicle before you can return to
your lane.
Backing up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel
with one hand. Then, to move the trailer
to the left, move your hand to the left. To
move the trailer to the right, move your
hand to the right. Always back up slowly
and, if possible, have someone guide you.
JK1_en_US.book Page 67
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