Drive in Tow Vehicle Manufacturer
Recommended Gear
If the tow vehicle has a manual transmission, traveling in lower
gears when going up steep hills or over sand, gravel or dirt roads
will ease the load on the engine and transmission. When driving on
long downhill grades, try to avoid down-shifting. Running in a low
gear going downhill, which uses the engine as a brake, can actuate
the trailer’s surge brakes continuously for the duration of the grade,
causing them to over-heat. A better procedure is to slow down be-
fore the start of the down grade and maintain a controlled downhill
speed with repeated application and release of tow vehicle (and
thus, the trailer) brakes. This technique permits the brakes to cool
down between applications and provides for reserve braking capac-
ity in an emergency. On moderate and steep sections, down-shifting
into lower gears may be unavoidable. Slowing down is important
to allow the brakes to avoid overheating. Don’t hesitate to pull over
when possible during or after severe braking situations and allow
the system to cool down. Running a stretch of highway where
braking is not necessary is the quickest way to cool down the brake
system because it allows a significant volume of air to flow through
the vented rotors and over the brake pads.
Always be Courteous
Make it as easy as possible for faster-moving vehicles to pass you.
Remain in the slower lane and be prepared to reduce speed if they
need extra time to return to the lane.
Do Not Control Trailer Sway by Using
Vehicle Brakes
Especially avoid jamming on the brakes hard. Generally, this type of
action makes the sway worsen.
Pay Attention to Wind
Be prepared for sudden changes in air pressure and/or wind
bueting when larger vehicles pass from either direction. Slow
down a little and keep a firm hand on the steering wheel.
Do Not Tow With ZFT2 or ProStar Towers
in the DOWN Position
Towing a boat equipped with either the ZFT2 or ProStar tower in the
UP position prevents premature wear. If the boat is equipped with a
Bimini top, the top should be closed. If the tower has board racks, be
sure that the board racks are folded to the inside.
Avoid Sudden Stops and Starts
Even though the trailer has brakes, a sudden stop can cause it to skid,
slide or even jack-knife. (Be especially careful to avoid the necessity
for quick stops while turning.) Smooth, gradual starts and stops will
improve gas mileage and put less strain on the tie-downs, etc.
Signal Your Intentions
Well before stopping, turning, changing lanes or passing, use turn
signals to let other vehicles know what you intend to do.
2021MCOwnerManualFINAL.indd 425 8/26/20 1:55 PM
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