- Secure all bolts and fasteners in vibration resistant ways – use things like Nyloc nuts, Loc-tite, cotter keys or wired nuts. Be sure the methods are appropriate for the situation.
- Check bolts, fasteners, lights and brakes prior to towing.
- Inspect the trailer regularly to assure there are no cracked welds, loose bolts, or other issues that can create problems.
- Inspect the tires carefully – especially after storing for some time. Dry rot is the # 1 failure mode for trailer tires. (Keeping tires covered when stored will help reduce rot and cracking.)
- Inspect the spare tire (if used) to be sure it is inflated properly and in good condition.
- Double-check the hitch to be sure it is connected securely.
- Use tow chains and secure them to a sturdy part of the hitch.
- Use tow chains that are adequate for the job -- not wimpy, flimsy chain.
- For stability, distribute the load on the trailer evenly – not disproportionate on one side or the other.
- For stability, the trailer should be loaded such that 10% - 20% of the weight is on the tongue.
- If you have a problem with swaying or instability, re-distribute the load. Most instability issues come from improper trailer loading. Other issues come from improper assembly (things not lined up or square) – so, take time and care when building a trailer.
- Don't overload the trailer. Also, be aware of the towing limits of the pulling vehicle and the hitch.
- Don't overload the tires. Tires on trailers often have a lower capacity than the axle they are mounted on. This is a great way to have a blow-out.
- Secure the load so it won't shift or move in transit. Keeping a low center of gravity is also good.
- If loads are tall, realize that wind loading can be very strong. Make sure everything is securely fastened to the trailer. You wouldn't want something to blow out or break off.
- You are responsible for the load in your trailer. Anything that blows out or falls off is your responsibility. Not just as litter, but flying items can injure or kill others. Be sure things are secure!!
- Double check tie-downs, tarps, ropes, etc. to be sure nothing will be "flapping in the breeze" or dragging the ground.
- It's a good idea to stop and double check the load, the tie-downs, and the overall situation after driving a few miles from the start. The load will "settle in" with the vibrations and bumps of the road.
- Set tire pressure appropriate for the load. When is traveling empty, tire pressure may be reduced to 10 or 15 psi. This will allow the tires to absorb bumps and other anomalies, keep the trailer from bouncing around, and shaking the tow vehicle. Full tire inflation pressure is needed for a full load.
- If the trailer has high sides or a tall load, avoid traveling when high cross winds are present.
- Allow added distance for acceleration and braking. Even if the trailer has brakes, it can take (sometimes) a lot more distance to stop.
- Allow more girth around corners -- take the corners wide -– to avoid hitting the trailer tires on a curb, because the trailer makes a shorter radius than the tow vehicle. Also, the longer the trailer, the more space it takes. Hitting curbs and posts may cause big damage and costs.
- Drive with a greater awareness of what is happening around you on the road. Any maneuvering on the road requires more time, more care and more space when a trailer is attached –- and the larger the trailer, the more it takes. Please drive carefully.
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