2-5
Prepare your vehicle
Perform the pre-operation checks each time you
use the vehicle to make sure it is in safe operating
condition. Failure to inspect or maintain the vehicle
properly increases the possibility of an accident or
equipment damage. See pages 5-1–5-2 for a list of
pre-operation checks.
Prepare your load or trailer
Carrying loads, towing a trailer, or pulling objects
can affect handling, stability, and cause the risk of
overturns or other accidents.
Read Chapter 6 before loading, towing, or
pulling objects.
Do not overload the vehicle or trailer. Refer
to label in cargo bed for cargo bed load limit.
Refer to label next to hitch for tongue weight
and trailer load limits.
Keep weight in the cargo bed centered side
to side, and as low and as far forward as
possible.
Secure cargo so that it will not shift – a loose
load could change handling unexpectedly or
be thrown forward and strike occupants.
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7-69
Encountering obstacles
If you cannot go around an obstacle, such as a fall-
en tree or a ditch, stop the vehicle where it is safe
to do so. Set the parking brake and get out to in-
spect the area thoroughly. Look from both your ap-
proach side and exit side. If you believe you can
continue safely, choose the path that will allow you
to get over the obstacle and at as close to a right
angle as possible to minimize vehicle tipping. Go
only fast enough to maintain your momentum but
still give yourself plenty of time to react to changes
in conditions.
If there is any question about your ability to ma-
neuver safely over the obstacle, you should turn
around if the ground is flat and you have the room
or back up until you find a less difficult path.
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