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Suspension
Your trailer is fitted with quality independent trailing arm
suspension with dual shock absorbers. This design is ideal for
the full range of use on and offroad however, there are
limitations in prolonged use of corrugated and rough
road. Suspension maintenance should be done as per the
schedule contained in this booklet. Regular lubrication and
inspection are critical, and the grease points are indicated
below. Regular checks of the torque on the trailing arm bolts
indicated will prolong correct wheel alignment.
Trailing arm suspension should not be reversed up gutters and
obstructions in a heavy matter. Always use a ramp or similar if
you are backing over high gutters and obstacles.
Shock Absorbers & Bushes
The function of shock absorbers is to turn kinetic energy into heat and dampen the rebound in the suspension to keep the tire in
contact with the road. During prolonged periods on corrugated and rough roads it is possible to overheat shock absorbers to the
point of failure (shock fade). Best practice is to take regular breaks and allow both the shock absorbers and suspension bushes
to cool. Overheating the bushes through prolonged driving on corrugations can soften the thermoplastic and cause premature
wear and/or deformation of the bush. On severely rough roads stop regularly up to every hour to allow components to cool.
Wheel Alignment
The wheels on your trailer are aligned at the factory. Refrain from backing up gutters and obstruction heavily. Always create a
ramp when reversing obstacles to prevent premature misalignment of the wheels. Wheel alignment should be checked regularly
every 6,000mi or when tire wear indicates.
Jacking Your Trailer
Your trailer is fitted with purpose built jacking points and that are to be used with a suitable jack. An appropriately rated bottle
jack is an acceptable alternative, however when using the jacking point beneath the trailing arm ensure the jack is of a retracted
height that will fit under the jacking point when the tyre is deflated. A suitably rated “High Lift” jack may be used on the jacking
points on the side of the body behind the wheels provided it has the correct positive engagement fitting to match the trailer. To
ensure safe usage the following must be followed:
The jack is to be used on level firm ground wherever possible.
The wheels of the trailer should be chocked, and no person should remain inside the trailer whilst it is being jacked.
No person should place any portion of their body under a trailer that is supported by a jack.
The trailer should be attached to the towing vehicle whilst being jacked.
When performing maintenance ensure suitably rated jack stands are used – do not rely on the trailer being supported by the jack.
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