Draw-Tite 8339 FOLD-DOWN GOOSENECK - Manual (Page 5)

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INSTRUCTION PART NO. N8339 1-15-07_C © 2002, 2007 CEQUENT TOWING PRODUCTS PRINTED IN U.S.A. PCN 9386
FOLDING BALL GOOSENECK HITCH SYSTEM
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON TOWING
TOWING EQUIPMENT OWNERS: Make sure all operators of your equipment read and understand this information before
towing. Save for reference. This will help you properly use and maintain your towing equipment. Refer to owner’s manuals for
your tow vehicle, trailer and other parts of your towing system. Learn the capabilities and limitations of each part. GROSS
TRAILER WEIGHT and VERTICAL LOAD are the two most important items to consider. THESE WEIGHTS MUST NEVER
EXCEED THE LOWEST RATING OF ANY PART OF YOUR TOWING SYSTEM. GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT is the weight of
the trailer plus cargo. Measure GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT by putting the fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. VERTICAL
LOAD is the downward force exerted on the ball by the trailer coupler. Use a vehicle scale to measure VERTICAL LOAD with
the fully loaded trailer on a level surface and the coupler at normal towing height.
TRAILER COUPLERS
The coupler should be smooth, clean and lightly lubricated. Adjust per coupler manufacturer’s instructions.
SAFETY CHAINS
Connect safety chains properly EVERY TIME YOU TOW. Attach securely through the U-bolts provided so they can not bounce
loose. Leave only enough slack to permit full turning. Too much slack may prevent chains from maintaining control if other
connections separate.
TRAILER LIGHTS, TURN SIGNALS, ELECTRIC AND BREAKAWAY SWITCH CONNECTIONS
Make these safety-critical connections EVERY TIME YOU TOW, no matter how short the trip. Check operation, including electric
brake manual control, before getting on the road.
OTHER USEFUL EQUIPMENT
AIR SPRINGS, AIR SHOCKS, or HELPER SPRINGS are useful for some applications. A TRANSMISSION COOLER may be
necessary for heavy towing. Many states require TOWING MIRRORS on both sides.
TIRE INFLATION
Check often. Follow tow vehicle and trailer manufacturer’s recommendations.
CHECK YOUR EQUIPMENT/REPLACE WORN PARTS
Check ball, coupler, chains, and all other connections EVERY TIME YOU TOW. Re-check at fuel and rest stops.
NO PASSENGERS IN TRAILER!
Never allow people in the trailer while towing, under any circumstances.
TRAILER LOADING
Place heavy objects on the floor ahead of the axle. Balance the load side-to-side. Secure it to prevent shifting. NEVER load the
trailer rear heavy. LOAD THE TRAILER HEAVIER IN THE FRONT, BUT NOT GREATER THAN TONGUE WEIGHT RATING
OF THE HITCH.
DRIVING
The additional weight of a trailer affects acceleration, braking and handling. Allow extra time for passing, stopping, and changing
lanes. A gooseneck trailer requires a large turning radius as the trailer tracks to the inside of turns. Severe bumps can damage
your towing vehicle, hitch and trailer. Drive slowly on rough roads. STOP AND MAKE A THOROUGH INSPECTION IF ANY
PART OF YOUR TOWING SYSTEM STRIKES THE ROAD. CORRECT ANY PROBLEMS BEFORE RESUMING TRAVEL.
WARNING
DO NOT MODIFY. Do not tow one trailer behind another, which may cause loss of control. Failure to heed warnings and follow
instructions may result in serious personal injury or death, vehicle crash, and/or property damage.