Tips for Trouble Free Towing

Checklist: What To Do Before You Tow

Here are some do-it-yourself instructions for how to install a trailer hitch on your vehicle, and a great video on how to tow a trailer. Every time you hitch up, it's a good idea to run through this basic checklist first:

• The hitch.
  Is the hitch ball tight? Is the hitch coupler locked? Are the trailer safety chains securely hooked to the tow vehicle?
  
• Tires.
  Check the trailer tires to make sure they're properly inflated. Recommended pressures are indicated on the tire sidewalls. Also be sure the tow vehicles tires are properly inflated. If its a heavy trailer, try adding extra pressure to the tow vehicles rear tires
  
• Wheel bearings.
  Never take trailer wheel bearings for granted, a total failure, which will cause the wheel to stop turning, can cause an accident. Check the bearings at least once a year, before you head out on your first excursion. Get one side of the trailer up on a jack, grab a wheel with both hands, and see if there's any play in the bearing. Then turn the wheel, using ears and fingers to detect any scratchiness in the rotation.
  
• Trailer lights.
  Are they all working? Turn signals? Side marker lights? Brake lights?
  
• Secure the load.
  Make sure your trailer's load is tied down so it can't move. If you're using tie-down straps the kind with winch-type cinches are best be sure to re-tighten after a few miles. They'll stretch a bit with use, particularly when they're new.
  
• Trailer brakes.
  If there's a hydraulic fluid reservoir, is it topped up? Are the brakes working?

The Hitch Factory has another great Pre-trip Checklist.