• The hitch coupler is secure
• The safety chains are properly attached
• The pin securing the ball mount and receiver is intact
• The electrical plug is properly installed
• The spring bar hinges are tight with the safety clips in place

A well-hitched trailer should perform safely under a variety of driving and weather conditions; however, hitching is not the only factor that ensures a smooth ride when it comes to towing.
 

Weigh In
There are three important weights to consider when preparing to tow: that of the trailer, the tow vehicle and the hitch connecting the two. You can go to a public scale to get a reading of the weight of each of these (to locate a scale look in the yellow pages under "Weighers - Public"). Be sure that:

• The load in your trailer is evenly distributed from front to back and across. Remember to store heavier supplies and items low.
• The weight of the tow vehicle does not exceed its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, including the hitch weight and payload. This weight should be evenly distributed between axles to avoid steering problems.
• Hitch weight falls between 10 and 15 percent of the trailer's gross weight. The hitch weight for larger trailers may require a truck or van's capacity to handle the tow.

Balancing Act
If your weight and hitch adjustments are suitable, you should have plenty of control for pulling the trailer. However, swaying on the road may still occur. If it does, some things you can check for include:

• The load in the trailer might have shifted. Check to see that the weight of items is still evenly distributed.
• Be sure the tires and wheels are sufficiently inflated and secure.
• Consider installing a sway control device when you hook up your hitch. This will help give the tow vehicle and trailer a "one-vehicle" feel.

Braking Up's Not Hard to Do
Most conventional trailers and fifth-wheels have electric brakes that are activated by a mechanism in the tow vehicle. This automatically controls and coordinates the braking of the two vehicles together; however, a driver not experienced in stopping with an extra ton behind will need some practice. Try taking your tow vehicle and trailer out for some practice, perhaps in a large empty parking lot. Get a feel for how much time you should allow yourself to brake so that the trailer will stop at a decent pace.

Backing up your trailer is another good move to practice if it's unfamiliar territory. Remember that the trailer will go the opposite direction of the tow vehicle, so turn left to move the trailer to the right, and vice versa. Be aware also that sharp steering wheel turns can cause your trailer to jackknife, so use caution.

Another thing to check is your trailer's rear lights - they're required by law. And you'll want other drivers to be aware whether you're braking or backing up, so be sure the lights are working properly.

Following the guidelines for safe towing should help ensure that your road trip goes off without a 'hitch,' so to speak.

This article was contributed by the Foremost Insurance Group of Companies, based in Grand Rapids, MI. Foremost has been a national leader in specialty insurance products for more than 50 years. If you have questions about RV insurance, contact your agent or Foremost Insurance Group at 1-800-237-2060 or www.foremost.com.

 

More Information About Towing

Although HighWay QC does not endorse any specific brand of towing equipment or towable vehicle, we want to help RVers make informed decisions. We've gathered the links below to help you learn more about towing safety issues and the pros and cons of various vehicles:

    Towing World's Towing Tips & Info
    Motorhome Magazine's Dinghy Towing Info
     Toad Safety Article from RVers Online
    RV Safety's State-by-State Towing Guide