|
If you have a specific question that you need an
answer to, then this may be the place for you.
If not, why not browse around anyway?
This area is continually updated in line with your
questions. If you cannot find the answer here, please
feel free to use the option to
submit a question
for our
consideration. Also visit our
online discussion forum
____________________________________________________________________________
General
Answers to some of your general questions.
Towing & Towing Laws
Questions and answers on towing trailers and related
laws for trailers
Trailer Security
Questions relating to keeping your trailer secure.
Trailer Maintenance
Tips and advice on keeping your trailer in tip top
condition
Buying a Trailer
Questions relating to buying new or used trailers.
|
| |
| |
| |
|
General |
| The galvanized
finish on my trailer has gone dull with some
grey/black stains. Will this lead to premature
corrosion? |
As part of the normal ageing
process, galvanized surfaces form an outer layer
of oxide. This protects the reactive zinc and
underlying steel from further corrosion. The
appearance of the surface ranges from bright
silver to dull grey. Exposure to road salt can
change the appearance of newly galvanized
surfaces to dull grey or black with white or
grey deposits. This does not affect the
protective properties of the finish.
To minimize this effect, new trailers should be
washed regularly to remove any accumulated grime
and road salt. This will become less important
after the first few months as the protective
layer forms on the surface. However, we would
still recommend regular washing. |
|
TOP
▲ |
| |
|
Towing & Towing Laws |
|
How do I connect the
trailer to the towing vehicle? |
Ensure that the towing
vehicle's tow bar is in good condition. Check
that the ball head cup is well greased. Raise
the coupling head above the tow ball by using of
the jockey wheel.
Position the tow ball under the coupling head,
then using the jockey wheel, lower the coupling
head onto the tow ball whilst holding the
coupling head open. Once the two parts are
correctly engaged, the coupling head handle will
lock in the closed position. Twist the coupling
head and check that the trailer is properly
coupled.
Wind the jockey wheel upwards until fully
retracted and the top handle is tightly locked -
now loosen the main clamp and raise the jockey
as high as possible in the clamp. Re-tighten the
clamp, ensuring that the jockey wheel is well
clear of the brake mechanism and is securely
retained.
Check presence and condition of the break-away
cable, if damaged or not present, replace
immediately. Connect break-away cable to towing
bracket on towing vehicle. Connect the
electrical plug to the socket on the rear of the
towing vehicle. Check that all lights are fully
operational. Ensure also that the electrical
lead cannot drag on the ground.
Finally (braked trailers) ensure that the hand
brake is in the fully off position.
|
|
TOP
▲ |
| How should I
modify my driving when towing a trailer?
|
To tow your trailer safely you
should remember these points: The overall
length of your vehicle increases when towing a
trailer. It is therefore necessary to widen your
turns to avoid hitting kerbs.
The additional weight of a trailer and its load
will increase your stopping distance. You must
therefore allow more time for braking. When
reversing you must steer the opposite way to the
direction in which you require the trailer to
travel. You should never exceed the
maximum towing weight for your towing vehicle. |
|
TOP
▲ |
| |
|
Trailer Security |
Can a
trailer be identified if the serial number plate
has been removed?
|
|
What if my trailer
gets stolen?
Each Challenger trailer is fitted with an ID
plate which has a unique serial number etched on
it. If your trailer is stolen then you should
report it to the police and obtain a crime
reference number. By informing them that your
trailer has been stolen, they will register it
as stolen
|
insurance
Your trailer should be secured to the
requirements that your insurance company
specifies as not following their guidance may
invalidate your policy. |
|
TOP
▲ |
|
Trailer Maintenance |
What are
the recommended tyre pressures for my trailer?
13”: +/- 1.8 bar unloaded
and +/-2 bar loaded
14”: +/-2 bar unloaded and +/-2.3 bar loaded
15”: +/-2.2 bar unloaded and +/-2.3 bar loaded
|
| |
How often should I
clean my trailer?
Ideally you should clean your trailer after each
use. Washing down regularly to remove road dirt,
salt, etc. will help keep the trailer in good
condition and prolong its life.
Chemical and/or abrasive cleaners should not be
used as these could damage the coatings used to
protect your trailer from corrosion, e.g.
galvanising, powder coating, and plating. |
|
TOP
▲ |
|
Buying a Trailer |
How do I
purchase a new trailer?
Challenger Trailers are sold through a National
network of authorised Distributors. Challenger (Naboomspruit
& Boksburg) also provide after sales service by
stocking spares and accessories, providing
trailer servicing and dealing with any warranty
related issues.
You can buy directly from us or visit our
Distributor Page to locate your nearest
distributor. |
| |
I am
thinking of buying a second hand trailer, what
should I look out for?
Like buying anything second hand, you need to be
sure that the seller is the legal owner.
Try to get sight of the original receipt or
check to see if it is registered with the
trailer manufacturer. Check for general signs of
wear and tear – is it in keeping with the age of
the trailer? Is the seller willing for you to
collect from their home? If you are in any
doubt, stay well clear. |
TOP
▲
|
