Important points to follow when towing trailers

 

Check your towing vehicle load capacity and stay within its limits as well as the trailers load capacity, never overload your trailer,

• Always load your trailer with the bulk of the weight over the trailers axle(s). If possible keep the load as low to the trailer deck as is practical.

• When you are loading the trailer, make sure that there will be a downwards force on the vehicle towbar at the point of attachment equal to about 10% of the weight of the trailer plus load. Do not put too much weight at the back of the trailer.

• If your load is unbalanced too far to the front of the trailer you will struggle to lift the drawbar onto your towing vehicle. Likewise if the load is too far back, the drawbar will tend to lift very easily. In both these cases, the load should be repositioned.

• An unbalanced load can cause your trailer to pivot on the towbar, forcing the towing vehicle to sway from side to side. To reduce the chance of swaying always concentrate the largest proportion of your load in the centre of the trailer, and try to avoid sudden changes of direction.

• If your trailer starts to sway, do not apply your brakes but remove your foot from the accelerator and allow the vehicle to slow down.

 

 

Trailer maintenance

 

Regular maintenance of your trailer is very important:

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• ACM panel comes in a high gloss finish and especially black can scratch very easily. When cleaning just use a water blaster or hose and refrain from using any brushes or clothes. If using a water blaster please avoid pointing it directly on to joints, seals and corners to keep the seals from pulling away from the panel or water tightness may be compromised.

• Please check U-bolts on the axle(s) and wheel nuts after the first 2000 kms and tighten if necessary.

• Jack the trailer up and spin the wheels, listening for rumbling noises which indicate worn wheel bearings. 

• Check tyre pressures regularly, and look for signs of wear or damage.

• Clean all lights and reflectors.

• Check all lights are working.

• Check with your local garage to ensure the tow coupling and brake mechanisms are well lubricated.

• Always keep the trailers warrant of fitness up to date.

 

 

A poorly maintained trailer can be a hazard to yourself and other road users. No matter how good you are at towing, you can never tow a badly maintained trailer well and safely.