Avoid These Common Towing Trailer Mistakes

Regardless of how long you’ve been in the trailer towing world, you need to be alert to the risks involved constantly. Many trailer owners make rookie mistakes along the way. Don’t risk damaging your truck and trailer - resulting in costly mistakes. There’s no harm in having a refresher on common mistakes to avoid to help you effectively tow your trailer. Tropic Trailer put together some common mistakes to avoid that will aid in a successful trip.

1. Overworking Your Engine

This is the number one mistake that most trailer users make. Your truck is meant to take on a lot, but you don’t want to overextend your vehicle. Driving at high temperatures can start a landslide of engine troubles for your truck. Overheating can lead to engine cracks and failure. The last thing you want to do is have to order a new transmission. Talk about a costly mistake! 

To avoid this rookie mistake, you will want to watch pressure gauges, exhaust gas temperature, and temperature gauges. Sometimes, temperature gauges can be inaccurate, so you’ll want to move the temperature sender to the transmission pan instead of leaving it in the case. 

2. Not Checking Brakes

Unfortunately, this is another mistake made too many times by thousands of trailer users. It’s the most overlooked safety system you have, and it’s worth paying attention to. Trailer brakes do not self-adjust like the brakes on your vehicle. They require manual adjustment and regular checkups. Feel free to check out our site for all your brake necessities!

3. Hauling an Unbalanced Load

This is another common issue - especially if you haul single items such as lawnmowers. Your trailer hitch should only hold about 10% of your trailer’s overall weight. There should be more weight geared towards the front of the load as you don’t want your trailer lagging. You also want to keep the left and right sides as even as possible to prevent a wandering trailer. 

4. Not Using Straps and Chains

While this may seem like a no-brainer, you’d be surprised to know how many people forget to use straps and chains. Having a wandering load in your trailer is a disaster waiting to happen. No one wants their belongings to be strewn across the highway. Use straps, chains, and approved tie-down points to firmly hold your belongings in place for yourself and those around you. Every strap has its own weight ratings, so be sure to check it before use. 

Whether you’ve been towing trailers for years or this is your first go-around, it’s always beneficial to go through a checklist of common mistakes to look out for. For any trailer towing necessities, Tropic Trailer has you covered!