Towing a trailer with your vehicle
Before towing a cargo trailer, equipment trailer or dump trailer, be sure to carry out a mechanical inspection of your vehicle and trailer and make sure that the vehicle that will be towing the trailer, as well as the trailer itself, are in good mechanical condition, including the lighting and signal system, and that they have been inspected recently.
Do not overload your vehicle or trailer. The load and towing capacity of your vehicle must be sufficient for what you want to do. The total weight of vehicle occupants, baggage and the load carried in the trailer on the coupling device must be less than the load capacity of the vehicle.
Use the coupling device properly and do not carry a load that is greater than the limits set by the manufacturers of the coupling device. The device should be in good condition and properly attached. Check it before departure and each time you stop.
The towing vehicle must be properly equipped to accommodate safety chains for the trailer it pulls. Use two sturdy chains that are the same length and that cross below the hitch or tow bar. The chains are a back-up in case the trailer comes loose from the vehicle. In addition, the chains will ensure that the trailer stays in the right direction if the coupling device breaks.
Chains are not mandatory when the trailer is equipped with an independent braking system that automatically takes effect if the trailer comes loose from the towing vehicle.
Always check the tires on both the vehicle and the trailer. They should be in good condition and not show any signs of excess wear. In addition to the information written on the tires, consult the owner's manual to find out the tire air pressure recommended by the manufacturer.
Make sure that the brake and signal lights work and that they are synchronized with those on the towing vehicle.
Install a braking system on each weight-bearing wheel of the trailer when the weight of the trailer, including the load is 1,300 kg or more or is more than half the net weight of the towing vehicle. In these cases, installation of a braking system on the trailer is mandatory.
Tie down the load securely. The cargo transported on the trailer must be well secured so that it does not move during the trip or fall off the trailer. The vehicle must be equipped with mirrors that enable the driver to see both sides of the vehicle as well as to the rear. Make sure that the load is not too high and that it doesn't impair your visibility.
The following tips will keep you safe while driving, whether you are towing a trailer for professional or recreational purposes.
About the Author:
Tammy Smith is the Marketing Director and Webmaster for All Pro West TRAILER SUPERSTORE