5-3
TOPAZ
3. Turning/Cornering:
The tires/axles of the trailer are located a con-
siderable distance behind the rear axle of the
tow vehicle. As a result, while turning the trailer,
tires do not track in the same line as the tow
vehicle. In high speed gradual turns the trailer
tracking does not affect the unit manoeuvring
characteristics.
However at slow speeds when sharp corners or
special manoeuvring is required, the tow unit
must go slightly past the corner before turning to
allow sufficient space for the trailer axle to go
around the corner or clear the obstruction.
Always swing wide like a semi trailer to provide
the required clearance. This is particularly
important in urban areas with heavy traffic and
the need to make sharp corners. Remember
that you as the driver have the responsibility to
drive in a manner so that the trailer does not hit
other vehicles.
4. Braking:
The trailer is equipped with electric brakes that
work in conjunction with the brakes on the tow
vehicle. They work well together to decelerate
and/or stop the vehicle provided the following
tips are observed:
a. Function:
Test the function of the trailer brakes,
breakaway switch, controller and electric
harness whenever attaching to the tow
vehicle. Correct all unusual conditions or
problems found before travelling. Any
deficiencies to the braking system can
adversely affect the handling characteristics
or safety of the vehicle.
Set the controller to apply the trailer brakes
slightly ahead of the tow vehicle when the
system is set in the automatic mode. This
will minimize the possibility of jackknifing
when the brakes are applied.
b. Brake Application:
• Do not use the trailer brakes to stop
the vehicle. The trailer brakes are
designed to stop the weight of the
trailer not the entire vehicle. Exces-
sive use of the trailer brakes alone
overloads the brakes and leads to
overheating, fading and short life.
• Do not use only the tow vehicle
brakes to stop the vehicle. The tow
vehicle brakes are designed to stop
the weight of the tow unit not the
entire vehicle. Excessive use of the
tow vehicle brakes alone overloads
the brakes and leads to overheating,
fading and short life.
In addition, vehicle handling is ad-
versely affected. The trailer continues
to push on the tow vehicle when the
brakes are applied. This can cause
jackknifing as the trailer hitch tries to
go past the tow unit. This is particu-
larly important in adverse driving
conditions such as ice, snow or wet
road conditions. Be safe - use both
sets of brakes.
• Set the trailer brake controller to
function in the automatic mode. In
this mode, the driver does not have to
apply the brakes manually and can
focus on driving. In the automatic
mode, the trailer brakes “lead” the
application of the tow vehicle brakes.
This minimizes the chance for the
vehicle to jackknife when stopping.
5. Passengers:
Triple E does not recommend carrying passen-
gers in the trailer when travelling. There are
no provisions for secure seats and seat belts
to provide a safe environment.
6. Mountain Driving:
When driving in hilly or mountainous terrain
you should employ different driving techniques
than those used when driving under normal,
flat conditions.
a. Climbing a Hill:
The automatic transmission of the tow
vehicle is designed to down-shift automati-
cally when required during a long uphill
climb. If you find that the transmission
shifts up and down rather frequently, it is a
good idea to select a lower gear for the
duration of the climb to prevent this re-
peated shifting. This will prevent unneces-
sary wear and tear on your transmission.
If the tow vehicle has a standard transmis-
sion, put the transmission in a lower gear
that will not require additional shifting.
CAUTION
Observe the engine temperature care-
fully especially during long climbs. If
you notice over-heating, pull off the
road and allow the engine to cool off
thoroughly before you continue. Fill the
radiator with coolant if necessary.
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