Towing a vehicle requires certain precautions. Whether you’re hauling a camper, boat or utility trailer, avoiding the common towing mistakes is essential for a safe journey. From improper loading to neglecting maintenance, these errors can lead to breakdowns and damage to the vehicle.
That said, we have prepared a list of the top mistakes people make while towing and how to avoid them. Let’s go through them.
Common Trailer Towing Mistakes To Avoid
Towing capacity is one of the many factors to consider when buying a pickup truck or a heavy vehicle. However, if it is not towed properly, it can cause drastic consequences. That is why, one must steer clear of common mistakes people make while towing.
Here are some common trailer towing mistakes to avoid.
FOCUS ON ADEQUATE WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
Proper weight distribution is paramount to tow a trailer safely. Besides, weight distribution bars, also known as weight distribution hitches, are the key to achieving this balance.
These bars work by redistributing the weight of the trailer tongue to the front axle of the towing vehicle and trailer axles. This prevents issues like trailer sway, fishtailing or jackknifing in trucks.
When loading a trailer, place heavier items low and towards the front to evenly distribute weight between the left and right sides. Moreover, use a tongue weight scale to ensure the trailer’s tongue weight falls within the recommended range. It is usually around 10-15% of the total trailer weight.
MAINTAIN BRAKES PROPERLY
Brakes are one of the trailer system’s most important parts. However, not checking the car brakes and avoiding regular maintenance is one of the common towing mistakes for trailers.
Moreover, truck brakes are self-adjusting while trailer brakes are not. You should adjust them manually and replace them with any signs of tear. Proper maintenance also aids in maximising a vehicle’s towing capacity.
DISENGAGE OVERDRIVE
Overdrive is an extra gear in the transmission to improve fuel efficiency during normal driving conditions. However, when towing, disengage the overdrive. It will prevent the transmission from constantly shifting between gears, which causes excessive wear and overheating. It also helps maintain engine torque and power for smooth acceleration and control while towing.
CHECK THE BALL MOUNT
Another of the common towing mistakes is the use of the wrong size ball mount. Ball mounts come with interchangeable hitch balls of various sizes, including 1 7/8 inches, 2 inches and 2 5/16 inches. However, mismatched ball mount sizes can result in improper trailer height, instability and strain on the trailer hitch.
MAINTAIN TYRE PRESSURE
Not maintaining proper tyre pressure is one of the top mistakes people make while towing. When towing heavy loads, tyres face increased stress and wear. Underinflated tyres can lead to reduced stability and potential blowouts.
Conversely, overinflated tyres cause reduced traction, uneven tyre wear and a harsher ride. It’s essential to adjust tyre pressure according to the weight of the load being towed and the vehicle’s load capacity.
LUBRICATE THE COMPONENTS
Lubricating the components of a towing setup prevents premature wear and tear. Regularly lubricate key components such as the trailer hitch, ball mount, trailer coupler, safety chains and axles to reduce friction and corrosion.
It also allows for easier coupling and uncoupling of semi-trailers. Additionally, apply lube over the wheel bearings, suspension components and brake mechanisms.
AVOID RACING WHILE TOWING
Racing while a load is hitched to your vehicle is a dangerous mistake. Racing while towing can lead to reduced stability, increased braking distances and heightened loss of control or rollover.
Additionally, higher speeds can cause excessive heat buildup in the vehicle’s components, leading to mechanical failures or breakdowns. To tow safely, always follow the set regulations such as the RTA laws for heavy-duty vehicles.
AVOID OVERLOADING
Overloading a towing vehicle is one of the most common towing mistakes that lead to many factors. They include compromised braking and handling, increased risk of mechanical failures and damage to the towing vehicle and the trailer.
KEEP THE TEMPERATURES IN CHECK
Keeping temperatures in check helps in safe towing and optimal vehicle performance. For that, monitor engine coolant temperatures should be within 90°C. Meanwhile, the range for car transmission fluid temperatures must be between 80°C to 95°C.
Additionally, pay attention to exhaust gas temperatures, ranging from 650°C to 760°C. Meanwhile, oil temperatures function well between 100°C to 120°C.
High ambient temperatures can exacerbate heat buildup. That is why vigilance is required for such vehicles, particularly in hot climates like that of the UAE.
FAQs
What matters when towing?
When towing, proper weight distribution, vehicle capacity adherence and vigilant driving are crucial for safety and performance.
What are the two types of towing?
The two main types of towing are ‘flat towing’ and ‘towing with a trailer’.
What is towing capacity?
Towing capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow behind it. It includes the weight of the trailer and its contents, as well as any passengers and cargo in the towing vehicle.
With that, we wrap up our list of common towing mistakes. Overcoming these errors will also help in towing a car safely. Moreover, proper vehicle maintenance ensures optimal performance and mitigates the risks of accidents and rollover incidents.
That said, if you are buying a used car in the UAE and want to transport it to another location via towing, be mindful of these mistakes.
For more on towing tips and mistakes to avoid, keep reading dubizzle’s autos blog.
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