Trailer towing tips
It is important to remember that it is a condition of your policy that your trailer is kept in a roadworthy condition, and that you may face prosecution due to an unsafe or illegal trailer.
Before you set out
Always keep an eye on the condition of your trailer, especially if it receives a regular dunking in salt water.
Always check:
- Brakes and cables are not seized or kinked
- Tyre pressures and condition including spare
- Lighting board and connections
- Condition and length of breakaway cable
- Jockey wheel works and can be safely secured
The towing vehicle
- Make sure your vehicle is powerful and heavy enough for the boat you are towing, the total trailed weight should not exceed 85% of the towing vehicle’s kerb weight
- Make sure you can see round your boat -fit mirror extensions if you need
- Make sure the tow ball is lightly oiled
- Check the lights before you leave
- Test your brakes to make sure they are working properly
Loading your boat
- When securing your boat onto the trailer it is very important to get the weight distribution right; getting this wrong often leads to snaking problems
- Make sure your boat is properly strapped down to anchor points
- Check for loose items on the deck or cockpit
On the journey
- Stop and carry out a brief check on the load a few miles into your journey in case strap needs tightening
- Remember your speed limit: 50mph on single lane roads and 60mph on carriageways -excessive speed causes snaking
- If you start snaking, keep calm, hold the wheel firmly to gently slow down. Try to avoid braking or accelerating
- Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for your journey so you don’t have to rush
After use
- Hose the trailer off each time you use
- Lubricate moving parts
Useful websites:
www.ntta.co.uk/default.htm
www.rac.co.uk/web/knowhow/going_on_a_journey/driving_advice/towing_tips
Whilst the information is believed to be correct, Navigators & General takes no responsibility for any loss or damage however caused.
