Common Trailer Towing Mistakes To Avoid
Trailer towing mistakes can not only make the drive more stressful, they can cause expensive damage. It's important to understand these common errors so you can avoid them. We've gathered up the most common trailer towing mistakes below and what you should do instead.
If you have any questions or want to visit a trailer dealer in Utah, head over to Mountain West Trailers. Our dealership is based in Heber City, Utah, and we proudly serve those in Salt Lake City as well.
Poorly Distributed Cargo Weight
The Trailer Towing Mistake
If the cargo weight is not evenly distributed, it can cause problems. For example, the trailer can uncontrollably sway or a tire could blow out. These safety risks should be avoided as much as possible!
The Solution
Make sure cargo weight is balanced from left to right. Put about 60% of the cargo weight towards the trailer's front and about 40% towards the rear.
Poorly Maintained Brakes
The Trailer Towing Mistakes
If the tow vehicle or trailer brakes are not maintained properly, they can cause severe issues. They can be unable to properly slow the towing unit down - and can even burst into flames! Poorly maintained brakes can cause a safety situation for yourself and any motorists nearby.
The Solution
Follow the tow vehicle and trailer manufacturer recommendations for brake maintenance, which will cover key steps to take and a timeline for doing so.
Make sure you also consistently inspect the brakes for wear and check that they are correctly adjusted.
Driving On Bad Tires
The Trailer Towing Mistake
Tires can face plenty of issues. Tread gets worn down due to use, the air pressure can be incorrect, a foreign object can lodge itself in the tire wall, and so on. These compromises to the tire integrity can trigger safety situations, such as a tire blowout.
The Solution
Inspect the tow vehicle and trailer tires before each drive. Make sure the tires are properly inflated, the tread level is deep enough, and there are no signs of damage.
Failing To Lubricate The Trailer Parts
The Trailer Towing Mistake
Many various trailer parts need lubrication to stay operational. It's easy to forget this maintenance step, but it's crucial to prevent parts having issues on the road.
The Solution
Check the owner's manual to get suggestions on lubrication frequency and any specific products to use or not use. Make sure to regularly grease the axles, bearings, and any pivot points.
Looking for trailer dealers in Utah? Look no further than Mountain West Trailers. Our expert staff can answer questions, make suggestions, and assist with whatever you need. Reach out or stop by our dealership in Heber City, Utah. We also serve those in Salt Lake City, Utah.