Tips for doing your own towing
Towing your own trailer should be simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Use a correctly installed hitch, and never use a "bumper hitch."
Make sure you are using the correct size ball-head for your trailer hitch.
Always attach the safety chain.
Verify that the turn signals and brake lights work on the trailer.
Be sure that your trailer and automobile tire pressure is correct and balanced.
The "tongue weight" is the downward force, the weight, as measured at the hitch, where the ball goes. It should be no more than 15% of the total weight of your trailer.
Stay within the speed limit.
If the trailer starts to snake, bounce or swerve, slow down gradually. If the swerving or bouncing continues, stop and figure out the problem. Do not continue to drive if the trailer is not behaving properly.
Remember when braking to apply slow, steady pressure, especially when cornering, and do not jam on the breaks, as this could lead to jack-knifing or loss of the trailer.
Remember to swing wider on turns, so you don't cut the corner.
When backing up, get out and look. You cannot see behind the trailer otherwise.
If you've never backed up with a trailer before, be sure to practice first!
If you are going to do a long haul, or a lot of towing, with a car that has an automatic transmission, you should have a transmission cooler installed.
.... and if all that seems a bit much, you can just call us!
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