how to haul??

[TStetson]

i will be hauling a car trailer for the first time this weekend. can u guys give me any advise/tips on precations. it is a 18ft car hauler. brand new about 2 weeks old. any advise will be usefull. i have hauled samer things ,small utility trailers, a small pop up camper.

i have a 97 ram 3/4 ton extended cab long bed w/ 10,000 lb hitch

banks power kit and 35's.

 

[barrfishe1]

I assume the trailer has brakes, I think it should! Just be careful about getting overconfident as you gain experience and be more attentive in general about stoping distance!

 

[Cariboo]

I have a 16 footer, which I hardly know is back there (I have to keep it in mind when passing, etc. ). The dual wheels track real well.



On the brakes, set them as tight as you can without locking the wheels. I always turn mine up to full when driving on the freeway with a load. Also, make sure you have a functional breakaway system, proper tire inflation, ligts that work, etc. (pretty basic, but it's scary what you see on the road being pulled around at high speeds).



Have fun

 

[paccool]

Try to load it so there is around 300 lbs or so on the tongue. This will help keep it from weaving. If you load it too heavy it just puts a lot of strain on the truck. Some people like it a little lighter, some a lttle heavier. You will need to see what works best for your rig.

 

[BCFAST]

trailering

... . and conversely, if you load the car too far back (not enough tongue weight), you end up with the "death wobble" of the trailer... fish-tailing all over the road!!! Super dangerous!! (been there-done that!!) If the car is a manual, leave it in neutral, parking brake on... the rocking on the trailer in gear can harm the gearbox. Lashing the car down is personal preference: some cross their ties, I prefer to be straight out. After you start out, run between 5-10 miles, pull over and re-cinch the tie-downs. . you should be OK then. Have fun!

 

[klenger]

Just don't try to take the corners too fast.



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[Jumbo Jet]

If you ever are in a situation where the above mentioned "death wobble" starts - DO NOT, DO NOT, HIT THE BRAKES. Let off the accelerator and gently, gently, slow the vehicle down. Clean your shorts and the seat before proceeding.



Neighbor of mine had his brother hit the brakes, launching the trailered vehicle into the back of the tow vehicle after jack-knifing the rig.