by Max
21. August 2009 16:21
www.carjunky.com
(ARA) - Even with gas prices getting higher, many people will soon be hitching up their boats, trailers and RVs and hitting the road for summer vacations. Catching up on the latest safety features will help these weekend warriors get out on the open road quickly and safely.
Before you set out on your first summer excursion towing a trailer or fifth-wheel it’s a good idea to practice turning, stopping and backing up your trailer in an area without heavy traffic or distractions. Because trailer wheels are closer to the inside of a turn than the wheels of the tow vehicle, they are more likely to hit or ride up over curbs. Make sure to take turns wide as corners, curbs and curves will require greater clearance.
Another safety tip to remember is to operate the vehicle at moderate speeds and avoid sudden starts, stops and turns to reduce trailer sway, allowing for adequate reaction time.
The phenomenon commonly referred to as “trailer sway” occurs when a trailer being towed by a car, truck or van begins to sway or swing back and forth as it is being pulled. Severe instances of trailer sway can cause drivers to lose control. Cautious driving can help minimize trailer sway, and now new technology from Truck and SUV manufacturers helps to virtually eliminate this occurrence.
“Trailer Sway Control is helping people who tow trailers achieve an enhanced level of control of their load,” says Steve Kozak, Ford Motor Company’s chief safety engineer.
Trailer Sway Control helps determine from the side to side motion of the vehicle if the trailer is swaying and takes measures -- such as applying precise braking or reduced engine torque -- to help get both the vehicle and trailer under control.
Watch below for a video demonstration of the trailer sway control feature:
Before drivers can drive with these safety tips in mind, they have to first deal with hitching a trailer, RV or boat to their vehicle, which often calls for more than one set of eyes to help guide the driver.
When backing up to either a parking spot or to hitch a trailer use slight movements of the steering wheel to adjust direction. Exaggerated movements will cause excessive movement to the trailer. If you experience difficulty, pull forward and realign the tow vehicle and trailer or start again.
Automotive companies have developed some features such as a reverse camera system to help trailer, boat or RV towers get to their destination quickly.
Watch below for a video demonstration of the reverse camera system:
One final bit of advice would be to create a safety check-list before you begin any traveling with your RV, boat or trailer. Below are some pre-departure check-list items:
* Check and correct tire pressure on the tow vehicle and trailer, as low pressure hurts not only the drive of the vehicle but also the fuel economy.
* Make sure the wheel lug nuts/bolts on the tow vehicle and trailer are tightened to the correct torque.
* Be sure the hitch, coupler, draw bar, and other equipment that connect the trailer and tow vehicle are properly secured and adjusted.
* Check that wiring is properly connected -- not touching the road, but loose enough to make turns without disconnecting or damaging the wires.
* Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working.
* Verify that the brakes on the tow vehicle and trailer are operating correctly.
* Check that all items are securely fastened on and in the trailer.
* Be sure the trailer jack, tongue support and any attached stabilizers are raised and locked in place.
* Check load distribution to make sure the tow vehicle and trailer are properly balanced front to back and side to side.
* Check side- and rear-view mirrors to make sure you have good visibility.
* Check routes and restrictions on bridges and tunnels.
* Make sure you have wheel chocks and a jack stand.
With precautions made to ensure safety while traveling with a trailer, boat or RV, motorists are ready to hit the road and will be out on the water or setting up camp in no time.