Trailer Brakes
Many states require a separate braking system for trailers that weigh more than 1500 lb loaded. There are two types of trailer braking systems: Electronically controlled brakes provide automatic and manual control for trailer brakes by way of a control unit mounted in the tow vehicle. However, if you want to tow your trailer with different vehicles, surge brakes are the way to go. Hydraulically activated by a master cylinder at the junction of the hitch and trailer tongue, surge brakes are automatically applied when you slow the tow vehicle. Both systems require a safety breakaway switch to activate the trailer brakes should the trailer become disconnected from the tow vehicle on the road.
Proper Wiring
Federal law requires trailers to have taillights, brake lights (even if the trailer doesn't have brakes), side-marker lights, turn signals, and side and rear reflectors. Some trailers must also have backup lights. To provide power, a connector is hooked into the tow-vehicle's electrical system. Many tow-vehicle manufacturers offer a seven-way connector that may include an electric brake signal, power supply, and backup lights, in addition to basic lighting functions. Because the wiring systems of many tow vehicles use separate wires for turn signals and stoplights, you may need to purchase a taillight converter that combines these wires to connect to the trailer lighting system. Most factory-installed towing packages include a trailer wire harness that will perform this function if required. If you tow more than one type of trailer, you also may need to purchase an adapter to accommodate differences in the wiring systems.
Towing Gear You Need
Preparation for towing is critical. Whether hauling a boat to the cabin for the weekend or towing the family camper trailer across the country, here's the basic gear everyone should have:
→ Flashlight
→ Flares
→ Hydraulic bottle jack
→ Tire iron
→ Jump cables
→ Hand tools
→ Electrical fuses
→ Duct tape
→ Plastic cable ties
→ Work gloves
→ Fire extinguisher
→ First-aid kit
→ 2 gallons of water or antifreeze for radiator
→ Drinking water
→ Non-perishable food
→ Tow strap
→ Spare tires (trailer and tow vehicle)
→ Tire-plug kit
→ Tire gauge
→ 12-volt air compressor
→ 2 cans "Fix-a-Flat"
→ 2 quarts engine oil
→ 1 quart transmission fluid
→ 1 pint brake fluid
→ Engine-cooling system "Stop Leak"
→ Spare fan belts and radiator hoses
→ Spare trailer axle bearings and grease
→ Spare trailer keys |
Loading and Weight Distribution
The ability to handle and control your tow vehicle and trailer is greatly improved when cargo is properly loaded and distributed. It's important to load the trailer so about 60 percent of the weight is on the tongue and the cargo is evenly distributed from side to side. Secure and brace all items to prevent them from moving during travel. Most trailers and tow vehicles also should be level (parallel to the ground). Check the instructions from your trailer manufacturer to make sure this is correct for your combination of vehicles.
Tire Inflation
More than one person has set out on a trip without checking pressure in trailer and tow-vehicle tires and paid the price. Most tires require more air pressure when the load is increased. Check the tow-vehicle's owner's manual as most manufacturers raise tire-pressure settings for heavily loaded vehicles or those that are towing.
Safety Checklist
Before each trip, verify that wiring, lights, hitch, brakes, and tires are in good shape and operating properly. Adjust mirrors before taking off. Be sure the load is placed so the tow vehicle and trailer are both level.