3 Tips For Safely Towing A Trailer

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Understanding The Car You Drive: From Purchase To Personalization

I grew up around cars, cutting my teeth in the auto shop. That early childhood love for cars transitioned into a passion for all things automotive. I decided to go to work with an auto dealership so that I could help others appreciate cars the way that I did. That's when I decided it was time to start sharing everything I know with the rest of the world. I created this site to serve as a means of teaching others about auto repair, sales, customization, and more. I hope that the information here helps you discover the potential that your car has.

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3 Tips For Safely Towing A Trailer

27 April 2017
 Categories: , Blog


You have probably seen multiple people towing trailers on the road, and because it is so common you might even think it is easy to do it without any knowledge or preparation. This is not the case. In order to safely tow any kind of trailer you need to make sure that you understand how to properly operate the trailer and attach it correctly. Here are some things that you need to know.

1. Double Check The Maximum Weight Of The Car Towing Capacity

One of the biggest mistakes that people make when towing a trailer is not fully understanding how to calculate how much weight your car or truck can tow. There will be a weight designated on the trailer, but this is only one part of the equation. That is only the trailer when it is empty. Most likely you will add more to the trailer, especially if it is some kind of utility trailer like a ATV or snowmobile trailer. You need to figure out the weight of each item that will be placed on the trailer, as well as the weight of any chains or ropes that you will be using to secure the items to the trailer. By carefully calculating the weight you will protect your car from undue stress.

2. Educate Yourself About Which Gear To Use

Driving with a trailer is not like driving a normal car. Because of the extra weight you can damage the car if you don't how to properly tow the trailer. Depending on how heavy the trailer is and how powerful your car or truck is, the gear you should be driving in might vary. Do not make the mistake of driving in one gear the whole time. This will ruin your transmission.

3. Check The Brake Battery On The Trailer

It is very important that all parts of the trailer are working properly, especially the brake batteries. The trailer itself will have a chord that can essentially hook into your car or truck that will make the lights light up when you are braking. This is important because the people following your car won't be able to see the brake lights on the truck or car. Too many people hook up the trailer correctly, but forget to hook up the brake lights or forget to check them to make sure they are working properly. This is very dangerous.

By understanding these things you can safely tow a trailer. For more information on different kinds of trailers, including utv trailers, contact a trailer dealer in your area.