Avoid These Mistakes When Attaching Your Trailer
Having a trailer can be a great way to transport materials to your job site, but it can also be dangerous if you are not careful. The consequences could lead to some major issues including thousands of dollars in damages if you are not careful. Whether you have been driving a trailer for years or this is your first time, there are some common trailer mistakes that anyone can get caught up in. Here are some tips to help you avoid making these mistakes.
Calculating Proper Weight
Adding a trailer behind your vehicle poses a new set of challenges for any driver. One of those is understanding how much weight you are actually hauling. Your vehicle has a certain weight limit that it can pull and you must be aware of this before you start attaching your load. Your hitch also carries a certain weight load which should be adhered to in order to keep your vehicle in good condition and your load strapped on. In order to determine how much weight your load is, you will need to find a roadside weighing station. Even if your load changes on a daily basis, it is crucial to keep your load under your specified weight limit to avoid problems with the vehicle and trailer. Your dealer can tell you how much weight your vehicle will properly tow.
Attaching Your Load Correctly
Balancing your load throughout your trailer is key to getting the right combination. You don't want your load to sit in one spot on the trailer as this can bring on some dire consequences. Instead, distribute the load evenly across the trailer. You can expect some stuff to shift while being transported. Before you add the load, you will want to measure the front height of the towing vehicle. Once the load is added, you should measure again to see that the front height has increased slightly. Adding the spring bars with just the right amount of tension will lower the front end of the vehicle back to where it began. This allows you to know that your load is attached properly.
Maneuvering with Caution
Driving with a trailer is much different than just driving with a single vehicle. You want to make turns wider so that the trailer does not strike objects on the side of the curb. Additionally, you want to be careful that you do not stop and accelerate too fast or it can cause your load to become uneven. Always be aware of your surroundings when you are driving with a trailer to avoid accidents.
If you're looking for a new trailer, be sure to buy one that is built safely and sturdily. A company like Arentco Rental & Sales can ensure you get what you need, whether you're renting or buying a trailer.