Airstream NTERSTATE - Manual (Page 21)

B
B - 6
DRIVING
Attaching a Trailer
Please observe maximum permitted trailer dimensions (weight and length).
Most states and all Canadian provinces require safety chains between your tow vehicle
and trailer. The chains should be crisscrossed under the trailer tongue. It must be
attached to the hitch receiver, and not to the vehicles bumper or axle. Be sure to leave
enough slack in the chains to permit turning corners.
Most states and all Canadian provinces required a separate brake system for tow-
ing trailers.
WARNING : The towing vehicle’s braking system is rated for opera-
tion at GVWR (GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING), NOT at the GCWR (GROSS
COMBINED WEIGHT RATING). A separate functioning brake system is required
for any towed vehicles or trailers weighing more than 1000 lbs. (450 kg) when
fully loaded. NEVER exceed the GVWR (GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING), or
the GAWR (GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING) specified on a motorhome certifica-
tion label. Also NEVER, exceed the weight ratings of trailer hitch installed on
a motorhome. Failure to heed any part of this warning could result in loss of
control of the motorhome and towed vehicle or trailer and may cause an accident
and serious injury. For specified towed vehicle braking requirements, consult the
Sprinter Operator’s manual that comes with this vehicle.
WARNING : Do not connect a trailer brake system (if trailer is so
equipped) directly to the vehicles hydraulic brake system if your vehicle is
equipped with antilock brakes. If you do, neither the vehicles brakes nor the
trailers brakes will function properly. Property damage, injury or death to you
or others may be the result. The provided vehicle electrical wiring harness for
a trailer towing has a brake signal wire for hookup to a brake controller. Most
states and all Canadian provinces require a brake away switch on trailers with
a separate brake system. The switch activates the trailer brakes in the possible
event that the trailer might separate from the tow vehicle. Please consider us-
ing a trailer sway control system. For further information, see your authorized
Sprinter or Airstream dealer.
Towing a Trailer
There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with
trailer towing. Make sure that your vehicle -- trailer combination will be legal; not
only for where you reside, but also for where you’ll be driving. A good source for this
information can be the State Attorney General, State Police, or local authorities.
Before you start driving with a trailer, check the trailer’s hitch, brake away switch,
safety chains, electrical connections, lighting and tires. Also, adjust the mirrors to
permit unobstructed view beyond rear of trailer.