When towing heavy and large-sized loads like trailers and construction equipment, special machinery and relevant experience are required. While all towing jobs consider safety a priority, it is the top priority when it comes to heavy-duty towing. Ensure a safe and smooth heavy-duty towing experience by keeping the following basics in mind:
Check your Tires
You must check your vehicle and trailer’s tire pressure before embarking on a towing trip. This is especially true if you intend to travel a long distance. Low tire pressure can create resistance, causing the engine to consume more fuel and work harder.
Low tire pressure can also increase tire temperatures and might even result in a blow-out. Ensure you check your tire’s inflation pressure and speed rating to ensure you won’t exceed either one while on the road.
Check your Brakes
Most large trailers have a braking system that can help the tow vehicle slow down when the trailer stops. Whether you have hydraulic or electric brakes installed on your trailer, it is crucial that they work properly.
You need to also make sure the emergency ‘breakaway’ cable is properly attached to your tow vehicle. The cable will trigger the breaks if the trailer becomes disconnected from the vehicle.
Check your Lights
When towing, your vehicle’s tail lights can become obstructed by the trailer. This is often the case when you’re pulling a large trailer. That said, you must make sure your trailer lights are working properly.
To check if your lights are working properly, have someone stand behind the trailer when attached to the vehicle. While in park, turn the tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they are all working accordingly.
Stay within the Weight Rating Limits
Ensure the vehicle can handle the weight of the trailer and it is within the towing capacity weight limits it is rated for. Exceeding the towing capacity can result in poor braking performance, dangerous handling, and damage to the engine or suspension.
Aside from checking the vehicle’s towing capacity, ensure the trailer hitch can handle the loaded weight of the trailers. It is also recommended that the trailer hitch is labeled with the maximum trailer and tongue weight capacity it can handle.
Pack your Cargo Accordingly
Aside from ensuring your trailer is within the maximum towing capacity, you need to also ensure that your cargo is packed in a way that distributes the weight properly. Ideally, 60% of the load should be placed over the front half of the trailer.
It is also recommended that the weight is evenly distributed on the right and left sides of the trailer. Once you are happy with how the trailer is packed, ensure the cargo is secured properly to keep it from shifting while in transit.
When the weight is distributed properly, there is minimal sway. If you have cargo that can’t be distributed properly, consider adding a weight distribution system to your trailer. This can help ensure the trailer weight is aligned properly for smooth and safe towing.
Check the infographic below for more heavy-duty towing safety tips.
About the Author
Jeremy Keller leads the Content Marketing team for Elite Towing, a locally-owned, family-run business in Casa Grande, AZ that provides high-quality towing services to both residential and commercial customers. He enjoys photography and making drone videos in his spare time. Follow him on Facebook.
