How to Tow Safely
It's important to know how to tow properly and safely. Here are some towing tips:
Learn the Language:
GVWR: The gross vehicle weight rating is the maximum allowable total weight of a road vehicle or trailer when loaded. This means the total weight of the vehicle with all its passengers and cargo included and it's an important number to know before you tow.
GCWR: The gross combination weight rating is the maximum allowable weight of the loaded trailer and the tow vehicle, with all its passengers and cargo included. It's important to ensure you are not putting too much of a burden on your vehicle.
TW: The tongue weight is the amount of trailer weight that presses down on the trailer hitch at the back of a tow vehicle. Having too much or too little tongue weight can affect the handling of your vehicle.
GTW: The gross trailer weight is the total weight of the trailer, boat or item that you are towing, including the weight of any equipment, cargo and fluids the item will have in or on it.
Use the Right Vehicle:
You need to know the towing capacity of your vehicle and make sure it's sufficient to tow what you're planning to tow. First, determine the weights listed above. Then check to see if your vehicle has enough towing capacity. Vehicle manufacturers provide a tow rating in the owner's manuals.
Use the Right Hitch:
There are many different hitches for towing, including several rating classes. You need to find the one that will fit your needs. Your hitch has to be able to handle the GTW you plan to tow. Hitches also differ in how they mount on a vehicle.
Pack Carefully:
It is important to think about weight distribution. You need to properly position the weight to keep your vehicle and trailer as stable as possible. Don't pile heavy items on the sides of a trailer or camper. Also, secure the items tightly. You don't want them to break loose or move around while you're driving.
Brakes:
Most states require a separate brake system on trailers weighing more than 1,500 pounds when loaded. Safety experts also advise putting a separate working brake system on any towed trailer or vehicle so you have maximum stopping ability. By law, every trailer has to have working brake lights, turn signals and hazard flashers. Be sure that they are in good working order.
Safety Chains:
Safety chains are an extra connection between the tow vehicle and its trailer. They are insurance in case the trailer couple or ball becomes disconnected. Follow the directions in your vehicle owner's manual for safety chain attachment information.
Tires:
Check your tires and make sure they are in good condition and properly inflated. Tires have ratings for speed and load-carrying. They can be found in the owner's manuals. Be sure you're following the correct tow tire pressures. Worn tires and tires with low air pressure can make driving a vehicle with a trailer dangerous.
Vehicle Behavior:
Monitor vehicle and trailer behavior as you travel. Be aware of potentially dangerous conditions, such as when a trailer is so heavy it puts too much weight on the tow vehicle's rear axle and starts to lift weight off the front wheels. Some newer model trucks include a tow/haul mode that works to lessen the transmission's tendency to shift up and down when towing.
Remember that when you tow, your vehicle's ability to accelerate and stop is affected. Acceleration is slower because of the additional weight, so factor that in when you decide to pass another vehicle or stop.
Published on Wedsneday, March 11, 2009 - Email to a friend
Copyright 2009 BuyingAdvice.com, INC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.
Find New Cars
SEARCH BY MANUFACTURER
