Smith Towing

Before towing a cargo trailer , equipment trailer or dump trailers , be sure to conduct a mechanical inspection of your vehicle and trailer and make sure that the vehicle will be towing the trailer and the trailer itself Similarly, are in good mechanical condition, including lighting and signage, and they have been inspected recently.

Do not overload your vehicle or trailer. The load and towing capacity of your vehicle should be sufficient for what you want to do. The total weight of vehicle occupants, luggage and the cargo transported in the trailer coupling device must be less than the carrying capacity of the vehicle.

Use the hitch properly and not to bear a burden that is greater than the limits set by the manufacturers of the coupling device. The device must be in good condition and properly secured. check it before departure and every time you stop.

The towing vehicle must be properly equipped for safety chains to the trailer it pulls. Use two heavy chain that have the same length and the Cross below the tow bar or hitch. Strings are a back-up if the trailer becomes detached from the vehicle. In addition, the channels will ensure that the trailer remains in the right direction if the disconnection of the coupling.

The channels are not mandatory when the trailer is equipped with an independent braking system which automatically takes effect when the trailer is detached from the towing vehicle.

Always check the tires on the vehicle and trailer. They must be in good condition and show no signs of excessive wear. In addition to written information on tires, consult your owner's manual to know the tire air pressure recommended by the manufacturer.
Make sure the brake and signal lights work and are synchronized with those on the towing vehicle.

Install a brake on each wheel of the trailer when carrying the weight of the trailer, including load is 1,300 kg or more or more than half of the net weight of the tractor. In these cases, the installation of a braking system on the trailer is required.

Secure the load safely. The cargo transported on the trailer must be secured so it does not move during the trip or fall on the trailer. The vehicle must be equipped with mirrors that allow drivers to see both sides of the vehicle and rearward. Make sure the load is not too high and that it does not impair your visibility.

The following tips will keep you safe while driving, if you are a trailer for business or leisure.