Monarch SE 2004------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ S e ction 2 Driving & Safety | 45
Backing Up Trailers:
Trailers have only one pivot point. Trailers may be backed up. Towed vehicles
using a tow bar or tow dolly have more than one pivoting point which makes this
type of equipment not suitable for backing. If using this type of towing equipment,
plan ahead. Park safely along the road and walk a distance, if necessary, to avoid
a possible back up situation. Avoid putting the motorhome and tow vehicle in a
backing situation. To back up this combination, completely disconnect the tow
vehicle from motorhome. Trying to back up the motorhome with a tow vehicle
connected will result in damage to the motorhome, tow vehicle and towing device.
The same rules for backing a motorhome may be applied when backing a trailer.
When preparing to back a trailer into a space, maneuver the motorhome sweeping
wide, then turn back to the opposite direction. This sets the motorhome and trailer
in a position to maneuver the trailer into the space. When backing up a trailer, the
driver may become disoriented with the direction of the steering wheel in relation
to the direction of the trailer. The bottom of the steering wheel must be moved in
the desired direction of the trailer. For example: If the desired direction of the trailer
is left, rotate the bottom of the steering wheel left. If the trailer moves in an
undesired direction, use a short “pull-up” method, pulling forward just far enough
to align the trailer with the space. The co-pilot should stand safely at the left rear
corner of the trailer within view of the driver in the roadside mirror, using the five
hand signals for guiding.
CAUTION: Tow bars or car dollies generally are made to travel
in a forward direction only. Most towing equipment of this type
is not designed for backing. Never attempt short back up distances
with a tow bar or tow dolly. Damage to the motorhome, vehicle
or towing device will result.
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