Towing a boat or trailer can difficult if you are not used to it. There are some tips you will need to do before towing. The most important thing is to bring your vehicle in. We can inspect it to make sure the parts are efficient. Another thing is that we will make sure your vehicle is up to tow what you need to. This can help to ensure the performance and safety when you drive.
Towing capacity
Make sure to review the towing capacity of your specific vehicle and ensure it is capable of handling the weight of your trailer and cargo you are towing. Also confirm that the trailer hitch is capable of handling your trailer’s loaded weight. Your owner’s manual will show the maximum tongue weight it can safely support. Ensure that the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), vehicle weight when empty, and the payload, the weight of all people and cargo in the vehicle, and the tongue weight of the trailer, do not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), the maximum operating weight of a vehicle. Make sure to not exceed the GVWR maximum load capacity, which can be found on the Certification/Tire label on the driver’s side or door.
Check the tires
There are several things to check on your vehicle. The first is to check the tires. Refer to the tire pressure label placed in the driver’s doorjamb for proper inflation pressures for the tow vehicle. Ensure that your tires on your trailer are filled to the correct tire pressure as shown on the trailer tire pressure sticker or trailer tire sidewall. The trailer tire sidewall will show the tire manufacture date. Most trailer tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires that are more than six years old. Check the speed rating on the tires for both your tow vehicle and trailer and ensure that you never exceed that speed while on the road. Most trailer tires are rated at 65 mph unless stated otherwise on the sidewall.
Don’t forget the lights
One of the most overlooked parts when towing is the light system. Check that the turn signals, tail lights and brake lights function properly by having a partner stand behind the vehicle while it is in park and you are testing. This will help others know when and where you will be turning. If a light is out, make sure to bring the vehicle in so we can inspect it for you.