Towing Trailers And How You Can Enjoy The Experience

A tow hitch is a device attached to the bodywork of a vehicle for towing or a tow bar to an aircraft nose gear. In general it is known as a trailer hitch or a towing hitch.

They come in two main configurations:

The receiver type
The fixed drawbar type

Receiver type hitches consist of a portion that mounts to the frame of the vehicle that has a rearward facing opening that allows you to put removable ball mounts, hitch bike racks, cargo carriers, and other hitch mounted accessories.

Fixed drawbar hitches are typically built as one piece, having an integrated hole for the trailer ball and are generally not compatible with aftermarket hitch accessories.

When it comes to towing a trailer on today’s road, it requires a lot of preparation and planning by even the most experienced drivers. To help you become more confident behind the wheel, a solid understanding of towing principles is required.

Your primary concern when towing a trailer should be safety. Check and double check the connectors between your vehicle and the trailer before hitting the road. You should make sure the hitch is tightened and the wire harness is connected. Also check your brake lights as well as signal flashers. Cross your safety chains below the trailer tongue before attaching them to the frame of the vehicle or the sides of the receiver. The chains should have slack in them but should not touch the ground.

You should also plan your route ahead, making note of any sharp turns, narrow streets, dangerous intersections or construction. If you can take a detour around any obstacle, do it. Always remember that taking a little extra time to get there is a small price to pay for a safe and stress free trip.
Two of the most important things to have when you tow are basic common sense and the ability to adjust your driving. Towing an average sized trailer may seem scary; it’s really easier than it looks. You just have to be sure that everything you do while driving needs to be done at least at about half the speed you would normally be driving in when without a trailer.

Try to go slower when turning or on a curve. When you need to accelerate, you should do it gradually. When you brake, the distance the vehicle takes to stop will also be more. And when you change lanes, always remember to allow room for your vehicle and the trailer.

Keeping all these is mind will give you the ability to tow a trailer with ease and confidence, allowing everyone else to just enjoy being on the road.