5 Ways to Make Towing Safer and Easier

You can't take towing lightly, whether you have been hauling large trailers for years or are about to leave for your family vacation with a small trailer. It requires a whole new skill set to operate a vehicle when another set of wheels is hitched to its back.

In addition, if you neglect some details, it can prove to be costly. However, there are plenty of ways to make towing safer and easier. Before hitting the road for a smooth towing experience, make sure you follow all these safety tips.

5 Ways to Make Towing Safer and EasierHere are five ways you can make towing safer and easier:

1.Be Wary of the Vehicle’s WeightYou need to learn about several weights when it comes to towing, with gross combined weight rating (GCWR) being the most important. You can find this weight in the vehicle’s manual and on a sticker located on the driver’s door.

The next important thing you need to pay close attention to is the gross weight rating (GWR) of your vehicle. This weight refers to your vehicle's total load, excluding the trailer's weight. The third and final weight is the tongue weight, calculated as 10% trailer’s maximum weight. Make sure you avoid putting too much weight on the tongue, or else the tow vehicle may lose grip on the road.

2.Choose the Correct Ball Mount and HitchChoosing the right hitch to match the trailer and the tow vehicle is vital for safe towing. When it comes to trailer hitches, there are five types, and each is designated for the combined weight of the trailer and load.

In addition to selecting the right hitch, choose the correct ball mount to match the receiver tube and adjust the hitch ball accordingly.

3.Check the LightsDouble-check the trailer's lights and wiring system before hitting the road. Inspect the wires manually to ensure they are loose enough to turn without getting disconnected from the tow vehicle.
In addition to that, make sure the trailer’s hazard lights, running lights, and brake lights are all connected to the tow vehicle and are working correctly.

4.Check the TiresIt's essential to check the tires of both your tow vehicle and the trailer before hitting the road. You can inspect for any cracks or bulging using a pressure gauge. Here, one thing to note is that a blown tire can stop the trip faster than anything, so make sure you prevent it at any cost.

5.Know your Towing CapacityIt is incredibly crucial to know your vehicle's towing capacity before starting the process. If you tow more weight than your vehicle can carry, it can lead to numerous problems, including unwanted strain on its engine, tires, and brakes.

The Bottom Line
Towing any type of trailer, be it small or large, can be tricky even for the most experienced drivers. You need to follow the five critical steps mentioned above to ensure your towing process goes flawless. Or you can contact Tow Mesa for the best 24/7 towing service.