The process of towing a car or truck trailer can sometimes seem tricky, as there is a large and sometimes obtrusive structure clumsily trailing behind the vehicle. Sometimes it feels unsafe, simply because it is. Prior to leaving for the trip, people usually make sure the trailer is secured to the vehicle, but somehow it always seems to wiggle itself loose along the way. Learning to properly tow a trailer is a process in trial and error, but there are tips that can help improve safety and visibility, and prevent the need for repair.
There is actually a pretty simple method for determining the correct hitch for a vehicle; all a person has to do is figure out the gross trailer weight (GTW) and the number that’s listed as the maximum tongue weight. Those figures can help anyone find the best hitch to use. There are five classes of trailer hitches designed to hold between 2000 to 10,000 pounds of weight. They are as follows: Class 1- 2000 lbs GTW/200 lbs tongue weight, Class 2- 3500 lbs GTW/350 lbs tongue weight, Class 3- 5000 lbs GTW/500 lbs tongue weight, Class 4- 7500 lbs GTW, 750 lbs tongue weight, Class 5- 10,000 lbs GTW/1000 lbs tongue weight. When shopping for a trailer at places like Vintage Transport in Shingle Springs shoppers must add on a few pounds to accommodate for the content the instrument will be carrying. They can visit the website for advice on how to do this, and what trailer to buy, or to look for trailer repair. The majority of hitches feature a draw bar that is removable, its purpose is to hold the hitch ball in place. These bars are available in dual sizes, 1.25 inches: meant for pop-ups and bike racks, and 2 inches: ideal for heavy duty loads.
While having the right sized hitch to accommodate the load definitely helps ensure safety, crossing the chains can also help. Chains should be crossed beneath the tongue as an extra precautionary method. This prevents the trailer from sending the guardrail into traffic or smashing into the cement. However, this doesn’t always prevent a trailer from becoming damaged. When this damage occurs, people should seek Trailer Repair in Shingle Springs. Of course, trailer maintenance is another important part of ensuring that the trailer is in optimal shape. Professional can remove rust, water damage and repair or correct wood rot. Visit us for more details.
