Towing Basics: 8 Things to Know Before You Tow

Whether you’re towing a car, a camper, motorcycles, or snowmobiles, it’s essential to understand the basics of towing along with the trailer and tow vehicles limits. Towing makes any vehicle more versatile and useful. The information is easy to find, and learning how to tow can be broken down into eight steps.

1. Trailer Details

Trailers are classified into five separate classes that range from light, moderate, and heavy duty. The differences are not only the weight but the style of the hitch, tongue weight, and construction of the trailer. A good starting point is to determine what you will be hauling, and from there, you can select the best trailer for your vehicle and needs.

2. The Hitch

The hitch is what attaches the trailer to the tow vehicle, and it also keeps the trailer level. The hitch height will need to be determined to keep the load level.

Each automobile and trailer will have its own hitch setup. The rear receiver hitch is used for hauling trailers.

3. Weight

It’s crucial to know the weight of the trailer you will be pulling, the weight of cargo in or on the trailer, and the weight of the tow vehicle. Plus, you will need to have a good idea of the weight of the passengers and items inside the tow vehicle. Adding all of these figures will give you the gross combined weight. This total figure must be less than the gross combined weight rating of the tow vehicle. This rating can be found on the inside driver’s door panel or owner’s manual.

4. Balance

After you have determined the weight of everything involved, the load will need to be correctly balanced. Distributing the weight allows for greater control, stability, and maneuvering.

Tongue weight is the pressure the trailer puts on the hitch. Check with the manufacturer for guidelines on how much weight to load on the tongue. Adhering to the recommended manufacturer’s instructions helps to prevent the trailer from excessively swaying while being pulled.

5. Safety Check

When pulling a trailer, some additional safety checks must be done. Connect the trailer to the tow vehicle and test the running and brake lights. Also, check the hazard and turn signals. Make sure the chains are crossed and securely attached.

On the tow vehicle, check the brakes. Check all of the tire’s pressure on the tow vehicle and trailer, and make sure you have a spare tire and appropriate lug wrenches for both your automobile and the trailer.

While traveling, stop and check the load. You do not want the load to shift or change the weight ratio.

6. Know The Laws

When a vehicle is turned into a tow vehicle, the rules of the road change. Speed limits are reduced. Check with the state laws before heading out.

7. Use Technology

Many trucks have trailer brake controllers built in them now. Backup cameras make connecting a breeze. Blind spot detectors can help monitor side and oncoming traffic.

8. Driving Conditions

Know that handling, maneuvering, and in general, all driving conditions change when pulling a trailer. The additional weight and length should be considered in all your actions on the road. Things to keep in mind are cornering, stopping distance, and parking.

With a little knowledge about the basics of towing and planning, towing a trailer for fun or work can be a safe and rewarding experience.