The rules of towing

[SierraRam]

First rule of towing... ... engage your brain!

 

[Andersonville]

I always put my trailer tow mirrors out when towing. They are in when not towing. AND SQUARE your turns!

 

[Dan Simmonds]

I think most any local DMV gives out free copies (at least here in PA) of pre-trip / post-trip checklists that prepare a would-be commercial driver for his pre-trip inspection. Things like checking suspension (broken leaf springs), lug tightness, broken frame & crossmember welds, etc are included in such manuals that go well beyond the standard "check the lights and chains".

 

[Donpd]

Here is something I found it is the tips of towing.



The Art of Towing: Tips, Ideas, and Hard-Learned Lessons - Consumer - Truck Trend

 

[JustaSix26]

As some one who pulls a trailer almost everyday i must say carry a spare . thats my big rule i cant tell you how many trailers i see on the shoulder with no truck up front. you dont want to be running all over a strange place while you trailer lay help less. I have learned the hard way about hooking your own stuff up i dont care if its my father who is older and wiser and pulled more than me hooks it up i still get out and check it only takes a sec.

 

[31b]

Another thing to take into consideration is what you are towing. If you are trailering horses, IMO, it is important for the horse to have as good an experience while being trailered as possible. If they have a bad experience they will remember it. It's been a while since I've trailered horse but one of the bigger PIA's is trying to load a 1200lbs horse that does not want to go in the trailer.

 

[Bernie]

I'd like to add:

-Make sure things are set up correctly
-Hitch (height) is correct. This is huge!
-Tounge load is correct (10% to 15% max of trailer weight)
-Weight distributing hitch is correct. Also a huge item!
-Trailer load is correctly distributed
-Trailer is balanced
-Trailer brakes are good (and all operating)
-Trailer brake controller is set up for the load you have
-Break away is correct
-Chains are correct
-Sway control (if needed)

An RV/Trailer shop can help you ith the stuff you need to make this list above correct.

A few other things I have learned:
-Carry a spare (or two) for the trailer
-Make sure you have the tools to change the spare
-Make sure you have a jack that can lift you trailer when loaded
-Carry some basic electrical items (trailer electrics often suck)
-Carry chains / cum a long / straps / prybars and other tools of strength.

 

[thashane]

As she always says "Know your load. "

Funny story: I'm the president of a collegiate club, as a student myself I am still shocked at some of the things I see. Last week I arrived to make a fire wood delivery, and the members felt like they would get a head start and move the trailer to the wood pile to start loading. I arrive to find the 16' 10k gross hauler hooked up to the back of a 4 runner with a 2" ball. Luckily one of them noticed that the wheels were chained together (not my trailer) while removing the wheel chucks. Instead of the 2 5/16" tongue lifting off the ball and into the back of the 4 runner when they couldn't stop it.

 

[Bernie]

Larson,

I have to agree. I am often amazed a what otherwise intelligent people will connect up as a trailer set up.

I race cars, and tow then all over the NE and Canada. We see some scary tow rigs.

My original advice stands: If you are unsure, go to a trailer / RV shop and get some help. Yes, their products may cost 10% more than an internet store, but the value of their knowledge and help will far outweigh the cost difference.

I still can stop by the shop where I bought my firt hitch and get assistance when needed. That, as the commercials say, is priceless.

If you ar in my area, the shop is Southern Tier Trailers Sales in Jamestown, NY. Good shop. They do utility trailers and bobcat sales/rentals.