Section 4
Operation
Towing the Generator
WARNING: Never allow a person to ride in or on a trailer that is being towed. All states prohibit passengers in towed vehicles. A person can fall off and be struck be another vehicle or run over by the towed trailer. Failure to observe this warning can result in death.
WARNING: Before using a tow vehicle, verify that the vehicle is designed for the load. Using a vehicle that is too small is very dangerous. Be certain that it can handle the M.G.V.W. (Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight) and the tongue weight for safe towing and braking.
WARNING: For a new trailer, the wheel lug nuts should be tightened to the proper torque specification before use, after 50 miles of operation, after 100 miles of operation and periodically thereafter. Failure to check the lug nuts for proper tightness can result in an accident due to a wheel falling from the trailer.
WARNING: Never operate a trailer or tow vehicle that has a loose, missing or broken lug nut. The trailer is designed for safe operation with all lug nuts installed and all at the proper torque rating. Operating the trailer with one or more broken or missing lug nuts greatly increases the load on the remaining nuts and can cause failure of the remaining nuts that can result in an accident due to a wheel falling from the trailer.
SMake sure the tow vehicle is able to tow the load. Vehicle brake capacity is extremely critical and the tow vehicle must be able to handle the additional weight of the trailer mounted generator. Radiator and transmission cooling must also be considered.
SBe sure hitch capacity is equal to or greater than the load when mounted on the vehicle.
SBe sure the size and rating of the hitch ball is equal to or greater than the load.
SMake sure the safety chain(s) rating is equal to or greater than twice the maximum gross vehicle weight rating of your trailer.
SIt is illegal to transport passengers in any trailer.
SReduce weight in car trunk and rear seat areas by the amount of tongue weight of your trailer.
SAny alterations or changes made to the trailer void any express or implied warranties on the trailer or towing equipment.
Selecting the Proper Towing Equipment
When selecting the proper towing equipment, the two most important factors that must be considered are the M.G.V.W. (Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight) and the Tongue Weight (trailer tongue weight at the hitch). The M.G.V.W. is the total weight of the trailer plus the payload in the trailer. The tongue weight is the downward pressure exerted at the coupler. The easiest way to measure the gross vehicle weight is to place the loaded trailer on a vehicle scale making sure that the scales are supporting the entire weight of the loaded trailer.
The easiest method to measure tongue weight is to place the jack stand (trailer tongue) on a scale making sure the trailer is level. The trailer tongue should be level and in its normal towing position. Tongue weight should be 10% of trailer weight and not more than10% of M.G.V.W.
Tow Vehicle
Make sure the vehicle you are using to tow the trailer is capable of towing the weight. Check the vehicle Owner’s Manual for towing capability of the towing vehicle or contact the vehicle manufacturer for this information. Make sure the tow vehicle is able to tow the load. Vehicle brake capacity is extremely critical and the tow vehicle must be able to handle the additional weight of the trailer mounted generator. Radiator and transmission cooling must also be considered. Seek expert advise to select the proper tow vehicle. Trailers with a gross vehicle weight rating that exceeds 10,000 lbs require special consideration.
Table 4-1 Tow Hitch Capacity
Tow Vehicle | Hitch Class | Maximum Tow Capacity | Maximum Tongue Weight |
|
|
|
|
Compact Vehicle | Sub Class I | 1000 Lbs. | 100 Lbs. |
|
|
|
|
Compact Vehicle | Class I | 2000 Lbs. | 200 Lbs. |
|
|
|
|
Mid & Full Size Vehicle | Class II | 3500 Lbs. | 300 Lbs. |
|
|
|
|
3/4 Ton or larger Truck | Class III | 5000 Lbs. | 500 Lbs. |
|
|
|
|
1 Ton or larger Truck | Class IV | 10000 Lbs. | 1000 Lbs. |
|
|
|
|
Class 3−8 Vehicle | Custom Engineered | Custom Engineered | Custom Engineered |
MN2417 | Operation |