Three Tips for DIY Towing of a Trailer

Blog

Trailers are important in both commercial and personal transportation operations. They are suitable for shipping goods for sale, taking equipment to workshops for repair and even delivering products to customers. Ideally, you should consider hiring a towing service to move your packed trailer. The professionals understand the important aspects involved in the activity, such as the towing capacity, hitching the trailer and safety considerations. However, if you have a sturdy truck, you can save some money by towing without the expertise. Here are some tips to help you handle the towing process on the road efficiently.

Accelerating and Braking

The acceleration rate of the trailer and truck is lower due to the extra weight. You will be able to feel the difference if you are used to driving the same truck without the trailer module. In addition, the rig will require a longer distance to brake properly. It is important for you to remember these facts when travelling on freeways and highways. This will help you avoid accidents that can result from an attempt at sudden braking. You should always leave enough space between your truck and the vehicle in front of you. This will allow you to stop efficiently at a traffic light, for stop signs or in traffic, without denting the preceding automotive.

Turning Efficiently

The turning process when towing a trailer is also different. Your two-piece rig will be heavier and less synchronised than a standalone truck. If you make sharp turns with your vehicle, the trailers wheels will not respond as quickly. The tyres will hit the road kerbs or can lose balance in off-road routes. Therefore, you should be careful when executing turns while towing your trailer. Position your truck in the outside area of the diving lane so that you will be able make a wider turn. In addition, you should not cut the steering wheel before your vehicle's rear wheels pass the inside curb of the pertinent corner.

Watch the Weather

The towing rig will be affected by unexpected and inconsistent shifts in the wind. The extended combined profile is larger than a standalone vehicle, so you will feel the effect of harsh weather more severely. You should learn how to compensate by steering against the direction that you will be pulled towards. For example, if the rig is pulled to the right, steer to the left and then a little to the right. If the weather is inclement, consider parking and waiting at the next rest stop.

Towing a trailer isn't a simple task, so don't hesitate to leave the job to the professionals if you're not sure you want to do it. 

Share

17 September 2015

Keeping Your Auto Safe and Secure

Hey! My name is Damian and this blog contains some very important information about caring for and protecting your auto. I am not an automotive expert but I do have some experiences which have taught me some important lessons. When I bought a new car a couple of years ago, I was so happy. However, that happiness turned to anger when someone broke into my car. They didn't manage to drive it away but I was super mad. My friend who works in an auto shop recommended that I buy some accessories to improve the security of my car. He also gave me some great tips on how I could keep my car secure.