Towing is a vital and helpful skill for any automotive enthusiast to learn, whether you’re towing a whole extra trailer, a defective vehicle or more. Granted, you can make a couple of mistakes along the way to learning this, or even when you’re refreshing your memory.
Being aware of these challenges and knowing what to do can help you save time, money and peace of mind in the long run.
1. Ignoring Tire Pressure Problems
Tire pressure is already critical in preventing excess heat and blowouts on the highway. Too high or too low pressure becomes even more dangerous when you consider the additional weight your vehicle needs to transport.
Make sure that the tire pressure meets your vehicle’s needs. The recommended pressure should be listed by the vehicle manufacturer under its Tire and Loading Information. It should be located either by the driver’s side door edge or in the owner’s manual. Do not mistake this with your tire manufacturer’s manual.
2. Choosing the Wrong Connection Equipment
Securing your load to your vehicle is critical. Unfortunately, there’s plenty of room for error with the connection equipment, like using the wrong-sized hitch ball. Failing to use and cross the safety chains can also cause disconnection when you least expect it.
Keep everything secure before you start driving to avoid stressing your tires and the whole vehicle. Mount the trailer with the proper-sized balls and crossed safety chains. You can also invest in a breakaway cable that will activate your emergency brakes if the trailer suddenly separates.
3. Going Over the Towing Capacity
Both novice and experienced truck drivers can misjudge their vehicle’s load capacity, partially because they underestimate the power needed to pull all of that weight. That said, you should avoid overloading your vehicle at all times.
Most tow truck drivers only haul loads at or below 80% of their maximum towing capacity. Staying under that percentage keeps both your vehicle and load safe. Plus, this rule gives drivers a minimal margin of error when towing.
4. Using the Wrong Weight Distribution Bars
Even if you’re towing a load within your vehicle’s capacity, you can still experience problems if your trailer or vehicle is just bouncing around. Weight distribution bars can typically help improve balance and minimize sway. However, you can choose the wrong bar weight.
If your weight distribution bars are too big and heavy, it can become relatively difficult to steer. Check the tongue weight and gauge the proper size. You should also place the load bars parallel to the trailer or vehicle’s frame.
5. Skipping Coolants for the Engine Temperature
Your vehicle’s engine can accumulate significant heat while towing, which can cause permanent damage to your pistons and walls. Make sure it has cooled properly and that you allow the towing vehicle to rest now and then. You can also monitor the pressure and temperature gauges to avoid going overboard.
6. Speeding While Towing
Fast speeds and disregard for road regulations can be a curse for drivers. A study found that 90% of road service provider fatalities with speeding vehicles occurred on roads with a speed limit of 55 mph or higher. In addition to that, one roadside first responder, including tow truck drivers, is killed every six days. It’s best to keep a steady speed when you’re driving, especially with heavier loads.
7. Neglecting the Brakes and Lights
Your brakes and lights are critical when you’re navigating the road and signaling to other drivers. As a general rule, you should get your brakes inspected at least once a year, depending on your driving habits. Have the same principle when maintaining your lights and light indicators. Towing can take a toll on your vehicle, so you may want to make more frequent checks.
Keep Yourself and Your Haul Safe
There are many elements you have to keep tabs on when you’re towing. However challenging it may be, it’s important to keep a clear and level head before, during and after the process. That way, you can ensure you’re safe on the road.
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