Tips for towing
As December looms, many people are about to leave for their holiday with trailers and caravans in tow. No extra training or testing is required to legally tow a vehicle. Yet, effective towing does actually require additional skills as it affects acceleration, braking and maneuverability and can have tragic consequences if a mistake is made.
The MD of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, is the holder of a 2003 Guinness World Record for a land speed record while towing a caravan. He has provided a number of tips to follow if you are towing this holiday season:
Before:
“ If you have never towed before, training is highly recommended. Otherwise, get a feel for how the wheels handle accelerating and braking in an empty car park.
“ Ensure the trailer is roadworthy. If trailers stand for some time, tyres can deteriorate.
“ The different weight requirements and distribution is most important, especially the gross and tow bar weight.
“ Incorrect weight can cause sway. Obtain stability by distributing the weigh evenly.
“ Avoid overloading and place heavier items in front of the axle to prevent sway
“ Cross safety chains under the hitch in an 'X' shape. If the trailer or caravan unhitches it may drop onto these chains, maximising control and minimising danger
“ Empty caravan water tanks before leaving and refill them upon arrival. Additionally, fresh water is a must.
“ Ensure bearings are well-greased especially in boat trailers and particularly if you live on the coast.
“ Secure your hitch with a pin or lock.
“ Check all lights before leaving.
During:
“ Every time you stop for a break, check the trailer or caravan for problems.
“ Allow for extra time to get to your destination.
“ Remember everything takes longer when towing: speeding up, slowing down and overtaking, thus increase your spaces and be aware of faster vehicles.
“ Moderate speeds reduce sway and give greater control.
“ Fast speeds increase wind resistance, increase fuel consumption and put extra strain on the vehicle and trailer.
“ Constant assessment of sway and moderate speeds reduces chance of jackknifing.
“ Check tyre pressure before and throughout the journey.
“ Take corners later and sharper to avoid clipping the curb
“ Sudden turns can cause more sway
“ If the trailer starts to sway, gradually slow down until everything is back in line. Do not steer out of a sway.
“ If your trailer continues to sway, determine what is causing the issue. You may need to reload or you may need to redistribute the weight.
“ Slamming on brakes can cause jackknifing
Sidebar:
Be weight savvy
1. Consult the owner's manual to determine the maximum weights
2. Educate yourself on legal weight limits
3. Balance the load inside the trailer itself
4. Also ensure the gross weight of your vehicle and the trailer together does not exceed limits
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