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Nothing can be more intimidating than having a bad towing experience with your trailer. The problem can either be with the tow vehicle or with the trailer.
The trailer might be too heavy for the tow vehicle or it is likely that you are exceeding the weight ratings of the tow vehicle. Both ways it adds to the danger. Did you
know that any weight you add to the tow vehicle takes that same amount of weight off the tow vehicle rating? And this includes the weight of co passengers sitting with you
in the tow vehicle.
It could be that the hitch which is not adjusted properly. Only after you are sure that the hitch is properly secured in the hitch, the coupler is properly latched to ball
and the trailer is in level position, you can have hassel free towing.
But if you take all the pre-departure safety checks before you start towing, follow correct towing speeds and you know how to make turns etc. there is nothing which can stop
you from enjoying your trailer towing trip down the road.
Follow the following instructions carefully and enjoy your towing!
Always remember to load 60% of your cargo's weight in the front of the trailer. This will put approximately 10% of the loaded trailer weight on the hitch. Check hitch weight otherwise
the trailer will not tow properly. It coule be unstable, difficult to control, and make towing unsafe.
Motorcycles, cars and whatever cargo you want to tow should be fully secured inside your trailer. If you want you can get E-tracks and a variety of tie-down rings installed for securing
your cargo properly.
Remember that your trailer must be hooked to the tow vehicle when loading or unloading a car or heavy item from the rear. Check tie-downs regularrly for cracks or damage that may weaken
them or cause them to fail.
Proper Speeds
Moderate to slower speeds put less strain on your tow vehicle and trailer and make for safer traveling
Check rear view mirrors
Check the rear view mirrors frequently; it will help you to ride your trailer properly. It is better to have outside rear view mirrors on both sides of your tow vehicle.
Making Turns
You need to make wider swings (turns) at curves and corners because your trailer's wheels are generally closer to the inside of a turn than the wheels on your tow vehicle
Place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel, while watching in your rear view mirror more your hand to the right, if you want the rear of the trailer to go to the
right and if you want the rear of the trailer to go to the left, move your hand to the left.
Because the trailer does not follow the exact path as the vehicle on turns, remember to swing out wider when traveling around bends and corners.
When making turns, be aware the trailer will turn quicker than a tow vehicle. Allow extra turning space so that the trailer wheels don't jump over a curb, hit a shoulder,
road sign, or tree. Your axle and/or tire and rim can be severely damaged as a result of hitting the curb.
Slowing Down
To assist in slowing down, many people use an electric brake controller. Extra length of your trailer can cause problems on turns. So you have to be extra careful while slowing down.
Getting into your lane
It takes more time and distance to get around a slower vehicle and return to the correct lane when you've got a trailer in tow.
Adjusting to the passing vehicles
To avoid swaying, be prepared for sudden changes in air pressure and wind buffeting when larger vehicles pass from either direction. Slow down a bit and keep a firm hold on your steering
wheel. Aim straight down your lane.
Reduce Consumption
When traveling over large hills or down gravel roads, use a lower gear to ease transmission and engine operation. Shifting out of overdrive and into a lower gear may also improve vehicle
gas mileage. Transmission coolers also greatly reduce the consumption.
Dealing with sudden bumping and swaying
If you encounter sudden bumping, it may be indicative of a flat tire. Don't jam on the brakes or mash the accelerator in an attempt to drive out of it. Instead, come to a stop slowly while driving
in as straight a line as much as possible.
If for some reason (a gust of wind, a downgrade, a pass by a larger vehicle, etc.) the trailer does begin to sway, the driver needs to assess the situation to determine the proper course of action.
Take control over the situation by gradually reducing the speed and steadying the wheel. Apply the brakes only on the trailer.
Take precautions not to slam on brakes and increase the speed. The increase in speed can cause more swaying. Stop towing the trailer if it is constantly swaying.
If you encounter swaying quite often, getting a sway controller installed is a good idea.
Trailer backing
Backing a trailer into tight places is easier than it looks, but it does take some practice. It's best to practice in a parking lot and in a vehicle that allows you to see the trailer through the
rear window. Vans, trucks and campers that have obstructed rear views require more preactice and the use of side mirrors. In either case, be patient, and make steering adjustments slowly and a little
at a time.
Checking the working of the light
The trailer's electical components are subjected to a great deal of adverse conditions, so check them periodically. Ask somone to step behind the trailer to make sure tail lights, brake lights and
turn signals are working properly. If signals are dim, perhaps there is a bad connection or you need a more powerful flasher unit on the tow vehicle. An occasional shot of WD-40 into the pig tail
wiring connector will reduce corrosion.
Remember that the tow vehicle has the power to pull a loaded trailer down the road, it cannot haul it up a steep hill. The trailer brakes are also incapable of holding it on a steep incline. Follow manufacturers'
towing guidelines and never exceed tow limits. Too much trailer weight can cause an accident, or pull the tow vehicle down a steep incline.
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