Nov 24, 2014
When you are preparing to tow a trailer behind you, extra precautions must be implemented. Not only do you have to inspect your trailer and its safety features, but also you must inspect the load before you leave. Phillipsburg area Honda explains how to load and tow a trailer. 
Safe Loading
It is critical to balance your load when you are towing a trailer behind you. Consider a few important steps when loading your trailer:
- Never exceed your vehicle’s trailering and load capacities.
- Always place heavier items in the front of the trailer’s front axle.
- 60% of the cargo weight should be in the front of the trailer, and the remaining 40% should be in the back.
- Position the cargo so that it is centered horizontally, and tie the items down so they do not shift on the trailer.
- Tie the load at many different angles.
- Do not stack the load higher or wider so that it impedes your view.
Towing Tips
Safety is key when you are towing a vehicle. You are much larger and heavier, which means you are at risk for malfunctions, skidding, rollover, and jackknifing. Follow a few simple rules when you are towing:
- Inspect brakes, tires and lights before you leave.
- Reduce you speed, and never exceed 55 mph.
- Avoid aggressive driving habits such as riding the bumper of a vehicle in front of you, sudden and sharp steering, sudden braking, failing to obey traffic signals and signs, and passing when it is not safe.
- Avoid distractions and keep both hands on the wheel.
- When you are backing up, put your hand on the bottom steering wheel and steer into the direction you want the trailer to go: turn to your left to move the trailer to the left, and turn your hand to the right to move the trailer to the right.
- Make wider turns.
- Use the gear the manufacturer recommends for towing.
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