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Griffin Technology TRAILER GT-5X8 - User Manual

Griffin Technology TRAILER GT-5X8
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Overview

This document serves as an owner's manual for Griffin Hydraulic Dump Trailers, covering models GT-5X8, GT-5X10, GT-610, GT-610 D/O, GT-612, GT-712, GT-714, and GT-716. It provides guidance on the operation and care of these trailers, emphasizing specific uses and safety precautions. The manual explicitly states that it does not cover all possible variations for each trailer or all common safety protocols for towing, recommending consultation of NHTSA and DMV guidelines for legal and safety requirements.

Introduction and Scope

The manual begins by thanking the customer for their purchase and highlights its purpose as a guide for understanding the trailer's operation and care. It clarifies that separate manuals should be consulted for the tow vehicle, tongue hitch, and other components not specifically covered here. The document acknowledges that due to COVID-19 and supply chain difficulties, some models may feature alternative, equal, or better quality elements not fully covered.

Components

Hoses

The trailer's hydraulic system uses rubber hoses designed to withstand 3500 pounds of pressure. Attempting to adjust or replace a hose during hydraulic operation can damage other components.

Pump

The hydraulic pump is the pressure unit, factory-set to the correct pressure. It comes with a 2-year OEM warranty. Maintenance involves monitoring fluid levels. A critical warning advises against breaking the seal on the pressure set valve or making changes, as the hydraulic fluid is under 2500 lbs of pressure and can cause bodily injury.

Safety Rod

Similar to a vehicle's hood prop, a safety rod is provided to secure the trailer bed in the raised position. This prevents injury or damage if hydraulic pressure unexpectedly decreases, though it is not guaranteed as total protection against bed collapse.

Battery

The standard battery is a deep cycle marine battery, suitable for operating the hydraulic lift. While the tow vehicle provides a minor charge, using a trickle charger when the trailer is not in use is recommended to maintain a full charge. The battery is the primary power source for the lift; if drained, the bed may stop in a raised position. Alternate charging solutions like jumper cables or replacing the battery can restore operation.

Axles

The axles have a maximum weight allowance and require maintenance, including ensuring adequate grease and monitoring/changing brake pads. Users are directed to the OEM axle supplier book or direct contact for maintenance concerns.

Tires

The trailers come standard with 15” or 16” radial tires. Like any vehicle tire, they will wear out and should be replaced with an identical size and minimum rating. When changing a tire, chocks must be used on other wheels. After replacement, wheel lugs must be torqued to factory specifications to prevent detachment during use.

Fluid

The hydraulic pump uses Dexron Mercon 3 fluid.

Ramps (N/A on GT-5X8 or GT-610 D/O)

Provided ramps (left and right) are rated for a maximum of 5000 lbs per set, regardless of the trailer's GVWR. They are designed for use at the rear gate section only, and the trailer's overall capacity should not be exceeded. Ramps attach specifically to the rear and should not be used otherwise. A safety cotter-pin secures them during transit. Ramps are heavy steel, so safety precautions are advised during handling to prevent personal injury.

Rams

The hydraulic rams are sealed, but periodic cleaning to remove dirt and grime, including wiping the seals at the top of the cylinders, is recommended. This can be done with the bed in a raised position (referencing the safety rod section for proper bed maintenance).

Grease

Various points on the trailer require periodic greasing to prevent binding. A synthetic multi-purpose or Lithium grease is recommended for:

  • Top and bottom of rams (4 each)
  • Gate pivot points (4 each)
  • Spread gate (2 each)
  • Pivot plates for the bed to raise (2 each)

Coupler

Whether a tongue coupler or gooseneck, the trailer is equipped with industry-standard connectors. Users should refer to the tow vehicle and hitch manufacturer manuals for proper connection and safety protocols. The tongue jack is for raising and lowering the hitch only, not for bearing the tow vehicle's weight for other operations.

Body

The trailer body is powder-coated black (standard color) for protection. However, welding bead areas and the inside of structural tube steel may be vulnerable to rust. Periodic application of an aftermarket water displacer coating can minimize moisture effects.

Load Limits

A label on the front of the trailer details specific weight load restrictions. The tow vehicle must be rated to handle the trailer's GVWR and payload. Users should consult their vehicle's manufacturing manual for maximum recommended tow weight, tongue weight, and trailer size.

Axle Rating Chart
MODEL GT-5X8 GT-5x10 GT-610 GT-610 D/0 GT-612 GT-712 GT-714 GT-716
GVRW 5200lbs 7000lbs 9990lbs 7000lbs 9990lbs 12000lbs 14000lbs 14000lbs
GAWR 3500lbs 3500lbs 5200lbs 3500lbs 5200lbs 6000lbs 7000lbs 7000lbs
Curb Weight 1760lbs 1895lbs 2720lbs 2004lbs 3580lbs 3620lbs 3904lbs 4855lbs
Payload 3440lbs 5105lbs 7270lbs 4996lbs 6410lbs 8380lbs 10096lbs 9145lbs
Dump Capacity 3000lbs 3000lbs 6000lbs 3000lbs 6000lbs 8000lbs 10,000lbs 10,000lbs

Exceeding these maximum ratings can result in traffic violations.

Gussets & Stake Holders

Some models include 2” X 12" gussets for increasing sidewall height with wood planks. Prelocated stake holders for 2" X 4" wood stakes are also present for various height extension needs.

Wiring

The trailer is equipped with a seven-way factory harness set for the allowed amperage load. Troubleshooting wiring issues should be done with assistance from a local Griffin Trailers dealer or customer service.

Hydraulic Lift Operation

Before operating the hydraulic lift, users should understand how materials may shift in the dump area. A heavy front load may prevent the lift from rising. The lift is controlled by a hand-held device located in a key-locked console at the front of the trailer. Buttons should not be held longer than necessary once upper or lower limits are reached. This trailer uses power for both raising and lowering the bed.

The Combination Barn Door / Spreader Gate (standard on some models)

This dual-design gate is engineered to spread materials with a slightly raised bed, not to bear the full load. Wet or compact materials can shift suddenly and damage the gate. Chains on either side allow for adjustable opening sizes. Raising the bed in 5-degree increments is recommended to observe material shifting. Retention pins must be used in the same position on each side to prevent damage. Chains should be stored before travel to prevent loose materials from dropping.

Safety
  • Always chain doors to the current position of use.
  • Be aware of pinch points where hands, fingers, and feet could be caught.

Overall Trailer Use Recommendations

  • Within the first 200 miles, review all wheel lugs, trailer brakes, and general transit functions.
  • Transport the trailer with the bed in the lowered position.
  • In winter, check wires for clinging ice or snow that could damage casing.
  • Use a breakaway cable on the tow vehicle for emergency braking.
  • Never cross battery cables to avoid explosions.
  • Secure equipment to D-rings (if available).
  • Properly secure the ball latch and pin before moving.
  • Chock the wheels before disconnecting from the tow vehicle and while loading/unloading on a level surface.
  • Spread hauled materials evenly to prevent damage to the lift system or uneven weight distribution on axles.
  • Regularly clean the trailer to remove debris that could damage the finish or components.
  • Ensure LED lighting is functional before traveling.
  • Billet formed fenders are not load-bearing and may bend if used as a step.
  • The 7-point pigtail receptacle is near the tongue area.
  • Periodically check tire pressure to ensure it's within the stated psi.
  • Use rear stabilizer jacks (optional on some models) when loading and unloading.

Limited Warranty Coverage

Summary of Limited Warranty Coverage

Griffin Trailers, Inc. ("Warrantor") provides a Three (3) Year Limited Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for the trailer ("Product"). However, a Ninety (90) day warranty applies specifically to electrical components, wiring (including LED lighting), jacks, sealants, seals, locks, and couplers ("Accessories"). This warranty covers only parts manufactured and labor provided by Warrantor, not parts made by others. It is not assignable.

Exclusions from Warranty

The warranty does not cover:

  • Defects in components or labor not considered the "Product" manufactured by Warrantor.
  • Defects in items covered by a separate manufacturer's warranty.
  • Deterioration due to normal wear, tear, and exposure.
  • Repairs or replacements due to negligence, misuse, abuse, incorrect installation, accidents, acts of God, modifications, or failure to maintain the Product.
  • Neglect of the Product.
  • Repairs or replacements due to failure to follow ordinary maintenance procedures.
  • Defects caused in-transit to or from Warrantor or consumer.
  • Defects in work, labor, materials, or parts not actually manufactured or performed by Warrantor.

Additional items not covered:

  • Defacing the Product.
  • Scratches, dents, or rust.
  • Routine maintenance.
  • Wheels and tires.
  • Running gear (axle and suspension assemblies).
  • Paint finish and durability.
  • Damage from misuse (overloading, improper/negligent loading).
  • Maintenance items worn through normal use.
  • Damage from loose nuts, bolts, or screws, including improperly torqued wheel lug nuts.
  • Damage from incorrect hitch ball, pintle, or improper hitching.
  • Damage/loss from towing a trailer exceeding tow vehicle limitations.
  • Loss of time, inconvenience, trailer use, rental/substitute equipment, revenues, or other losses.
  • Travel time or expenses (food, fuel, lodging) incurred to obtain service.

This warranty is not transferable and covers only the original retail consumer purchaser.

Period of Coverage

  • Three (3) Year Limited Warranty for defects in materials and workmanship of the "Product."
  • Ninety (90) day warranty for "Accessories" (electrical components, wiring, LED lighting, jacks, sealants, seals, locks, and couplers).

The sole obligation under these warranties is, at Warrantor's discretion, repairing the work or replacing the part. Warrantor disclaims all other warranties, expressed or implied, including fitness for a particular purpose or merchantability.

How to Get Warranty Services

Repair or replacement must occur at Warrantor's facilities, an approved dealer, or with specific written authorization. Upon discovering a defect, the Warrantor must be notified in writing or by email within twenty (20) days. The Product should then be taken to an authorized dealer or repair shop. All warranty work and parts must be pre-approved in writing by Griffin Trailers, Inc. All labor rates, part costs, and time allowances must be pre-approved. Costs incurred beyond pre-approved charges, including loss of use, travel, towing, service calls, or shipping fees, are the purchaser's sole responsibility.

The original retail consumer purchaser must return the included warranty notice, duly completed, to Warrantor within 30 days of purchase for the warranty to be effective.

What to Do if a Separately Manufactured Part is Defective

The warranty does not cover defects in separately manufactured products. If such products are warranted by their individual manufacturers, users should refer to those warranties. The dealer can assist in locating manufacturers or service centers.

How State Law Relates to This Warranty

This Warranty grants specific legal rights, and other rights may vary by state. By submitting notice or asserting a claim, the purchaser agrees to the terms and conditions of this Limited Warranty.

Purchaser's Obligations

The Purchaser must provide written notice of any defect within twenty (20) days of discovery and initiate any action to enforce the warranty within three (3) months thereafter; otherwise, the defect is waived. The purchaser must also perform reasonable and necessary maintenance and use the Product according to manufacturer directions.

Events Discharging Warrantor from Obligations

Improper installation, misuse, negligent use, abuse, accident, neglect, unauthorized alteration, or failure to provide reasonable maintenance discharges Warrantor from its obligations.

Disclaimer of Consequential, Punitive, and Incidental Damages

The original retail consumer purchaser and any other user are not entitled to recover consequential, punitive, or incidental damages resulting from any defect, loss of use, time, or revenues. This includes transportation costs, loss of use, time, revenues, inconvenience, and punitive damages. Some states may not allow these exclusions.

Disclaimer of Expressed and Implied Warranties

The Warrantor expressly disclaims all implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. There are no express or implied warranties beyond those in this Limited Warranty. To activate the warranty, the attached notice must be returned within 30 days of purchase. No person has the authority to enlarge, amend, or modify this warranty. Some states may not allow limitations on implied warranty duration.

Design Changes

Warrantor reserves the right to change the Product design without notice or obligation to make corresponding changes to previously manufactured products.

Attorneys Fees

Any warranty claim asserted in violation of this Limited Warranty, or any claim against Warrantor where the purchaser fails to prevail, entitles Warrantor to recover its costs, damages, and reasonable attorney's fees.

Registration Card

The attached card is for registering the Product as the original retail consumer purchaser. It must be filled out and returned to Warrantor within ten (10) days of purchase, or registered online, otherwise the Warranty is void. A copy of the document and filled registration should be kept.

Griffin Technology TRAILER GT-5X8 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandGriffin Technology
ModelTRAILER GT-5X8
CategoryUtility Vehicle
LanguageEnglish