Monday, October 7, 2013

How To Tow In A Safely Manner

By Randy Craft


There are several situations when it may become necessary to pull another object or vehicle behind one's car or truck. Perhaps someone is moving and would like to transport their own belongings rather than hire a company, or they're going camping, or perhaps maybe they just need to get their boat out to the water. For those occasions, it is important to have a grasp of towing safety.

Hauling definitely has its convenience factors, however it also has its share of hazards if one is not properly educated. Any driver attempting this needs to know at least the basics of issues such as spreading the weight evenly, parking correctly, passing, breaking and turning safely. Observing the rules and tips will keep everyone on the road much safer.

Weight distribution is of the utmost importance. Regardless of what or who is being towed in the box trailers, it is imperative that it not get too heavy on one side or over a single axle because it makes things unbalanced. Follow the restrictions that came with the hitch to make sure it can handle the pressure that one is planning to place on it.

Parking is much easier when two work together. One stays inside with the brake held firmly while the other places stops either in front of or behind the wheels of the trailer, depending on whether or not they are on an up or downgrade. In an automatic, the vehicle should be put in park before releasing the brake, and in either reverse or first in a manual.

Lane changing and passing are basically the same with the exception of a little extra caution such as providing a little extra warning of intent and leaving extra space to account for the trailer before moving back over. Because speed is more difficult to control, this is not something that should be tackled when ascending or descending a steep grade. For every 10 mph being traveled, stay at least one double unit length behind the car in front to provide ample time to stop without stressing the hitch.

The biggest risks of tipping or jackknifing are while taking corners. Sudden stops and quick moves are definitely things to avoid because they cause weight shifts that change the balance. Turns should be taken slowly, allowing more room on the inside so that the trailer's wheels have space to clear the curb.

Towing safety is largely a matter of careful thinking. Keeping conscious thought of all the extra weight and length on the rear of the vehicle is a key factor. One should watch their speed, especially in bad conditions to avoid skidding.




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