Towing of a trailer is an important skill that requires the right equipment, and proper wire connections. Towing can sound as easy as driving, but it requires more attention and safety precautions. Certainly, a combination of a trailer and a vehicle adds more weight making it difficult to maneuver or have a smooth ride. For this reason, here are the five most important tips to safely tow a trailer.
1. Ensure your vehicle has a towing capacity
Always confirm that your vehicle has the capacity to tow the load you wish to transport. Check the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and compare it with an Aggregate Trailer Mass to confirm whether your vehicle has the capacity to tow the specified weight of the trailer. Other factors to consider are the tow bar, ball, and Axle load specifications.
2. Matching the vehicle to the right towing requirements, hitch, and technique
Checking the vehicle towing capacity is not just enough, you need to put perfect matching into consideration. Talk to the towing experts or read the manual to know the right hitch for the job. Ensure that the hitch used is related to the total weight of your vehicle and trailer. Use the appropriate chain that is crisscrossed attached to the trailer as a backup just in case it slips from the hitch.
3. Proper trailer loading
To avoid swaying of the trailer when driving, it is important you employ the proper loading strategy. It is always wise to place about 60% of the load in the front part of the trailer near the hitch to reduce the fishtailing possibility or to whip you off the road. An example of fishtailing and weight distribution can be found here. Furthermore, ensure the cargo is properly tied down to avoid shifting of the content in the trailer when is on movement.
4. Be extra cautious on the road and drive safely
The fact that the addition of a trailer adds more weight and probably height, the maneuvering of the vehicle becomes a bit difficult. The vehicle acceleration becomes slow and takes longer to stop. For this reason, it is important you take your time and accept to respond gradually. Take extra time when switching the lanes, overtaking and stopping to ensure you are always in control.
5. Never slam on the brakes
It is worth noting that you are prone to jackknifing, skidding and even worse when you slam on your brakes. Since you already know that the towed trailer weight is high and difficult to maneuver, it is important you maintain a significant distance between the vehicles in front and more so, pay more attention to the road.
If you are out there and you wish to tow your vehicle, please note that Quick Tow Tilt Tray Transport provides professional towing services on the Sunshine Coast, and also tow vehicles, boats, shipping container and more. Head across to our services page to learn more.
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