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Tropic Trailer's Ultimate Towing Checklist

Aug. 25 2017 Article By Tropic Trailer

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Towing a trailer involves more than just hitching it up and hitting the road. Before taking off, there are a few things that need to be done to ensure a safe journey – for you and everyone else. Practice makes perfect and prepping your trailer will become second nature over time. Until then, it’s helpful to make a personalized towing checklist and go through it before every towing.

Here are a few items that every towing checklist needs to include.

The Vehicle:
  • Tires are properly inflated and in good shape.
  • All fluids are topped off and not leaking:
  • Coolant
  • Motor Oil
  • Gas
  • All lights are working correctly.
  • Brakes are in good working order.
  • Brake controller is properly connected (if applicable).
  • Mirrors are adjusted to include the trailer radius.
The Trailer:
  • Tires are properly inflated and in good shape.
  • All lights are properly connected and working correctly:
  • Brake Lights
  • Turn Signal Lights
  • Running Lights
  • Brakes are in good working order.
  • Windows and doors are closed and secured.
  • All contents are properly tied down and secured.
  • Trailer contents are equally balanced on each side.

The Connection:
  • Hitch ball is tightly secured.
  • Coupler or socket is secured and locked over the ball with a pin and clip.
  • Wires have not been damaged from storage or last trip.
  • Safety chains are properly attached and secured.
  • The tongue jack is fully up and properly stowed.
  • All wiring harnesses have been properly attached and are working correctly.
Travel Safety Tips:
  • When towing a trailer, take the weight of the trailer and the contents of the trailer into consideration.
  • Allow more time and distance for breaking due to extra weight. Also, remember the contents of your trailer when braking hard.
  • The wheels on a trailer are closer to the inside of a turn, so make wider turns to avoid running over curbs.
  • Leave lots of excess room when changing lanes and passing.
  • If your trailer begins to sway, release the accelerator pedal to reduce your speed. Do not apply the brakes as this can make the sway worse.
  • Check your trailer contents periodically throughout your trip to ensure nothing has been lost.

Remember that not all trailers are the same and these tips might not apply to every trailer and every situation (or additional tips may be necessary). Review your personal trailer and vehicle for specific details that may differ from these. Be sure to learn the process well to ensure your safety, others safety, and to lengthen the life of your trailer. Happy towing!