Top Tips – Safe Towing
With Spring here many of us will be heading off with a boat, trailer or caravan in tow. It may have been a while since the last trip so here are some top towing tips.
Before You Go – Ensure that you have checked the trailer/ caravan lights are operational, the coupling and safety chains are securely attached and that you have a spare tyre for the trailer/caravan.
Loading – When loading make sure that the weight is distributed evenly with the heaviest items in the middle, and lighter items at the ends. Always ensure there is positive weight on the tow bar – never overload. Please check with us if you are unsure about your vehicle’s towing capacity.
On the Move – Towing isn’t difficult it just requires a lot more care. It is recommended you travel more slowly, keep to the left-hand lane and take extra care when overtaking. Don’t wander, weave or swerve or you may set up a sway motion at speed. If the trailer does start swaying do not apply the brakes, gently apply power until control is re-established.
During the Trip – After travelling a few kilometres pull up in a safe location and take a walk around your load checking that coupling and safety chains are still fastened, all lights are working, tyres are inflated properly and loads/doors etc are properly secured. On long trips it is recommended that you re-check every 2-3 hours such as when taking a rest stop.
Hill Descents- When descending make use of the engine as a brake by selecting a lower gear – before you start the downhill run – as a guide select the same gear going up as you did coming down and never descend in neutral.
Reversing – Reversing can take a bit of practise but comes easily once mastered. As you would expect you turn steer the tow vehicle in the opposite direction to that normally taken. Make sure have checked the immediate area around and behind the trailer and never let someone direct you while standing directly behind the trailer.
If you have any questions regarding towing please do not hesitate to contact our service centre. Or if you have just bought that boat or caravan and haven’t fitted your tow bar enquire about our fantastic Spring deals.
