Tips On Using Pop Up Hitches

The use of a trailer is an effective method of increasing the capacity of a vehicle. Some professional people do this out of necessity. Then there are also holidaymakers who tow RVs (recreational vehicles), allowing them to stop practically anywhere they want to. But regardless of what they are towing, it is important for people to remember that there are inherent risks in the activity, particularly around how they use their pop up hitches.

An important point to remember is that the sheer weight involved is more than what people ordinarily encounter in their daily activities. A light truck or 4x4 vehicle can easily weigh in excess of one ton. Once the trailer or RV has been added, the entire train has an exceptional weight by everyday standards. This requires the use of a hitch that is strong enough to sustain that mass, not only in a stationary parked position but also through the twisting and turning of ordinary driving.

Technically, the hitch should be able to withstand up to 30 000lb as the trailer's gross weight. This gives a rough indication as to how just how much weight can be present in a towing situation. Now, imagine taking a tight bend or braking sharply with all those pounds pushing onto the hitch.

This is why those who use towing as a transport strategy, whether recreationally or professionally, should incorporate some simple measures into their activities. These measures are easy to understand and have a positive impact on the safety of the situation.

The first one may sound obvious or even annoying in its simplicity. However, it is essential to stick to the maximum towing weight specified by the manufacturer of the equipment. People who design such equipment are qualified in the science behind the manufacture. If they have determined that there should be a maximum weight, it's best to trust their opinion.

Another self-explanatory measure is to keep adequate clearance between the towing vehicle and its trailer. In deciding on how much space is necessary, the driver should take into account how the trailer moves when the vehicle turns. As part of an articulated system, the trailer does not do exactly what the vehicle does in a turn.

Safety chains are a standard precautionary tactic, but their adjustment requires proper attention. Making them too tight will hamper ordinary turning, but if they are too loose they won't make any difference if the main connection is broken.

When you load a trailer, follow the instructions provided by its manufacturer. The load should be properly balanced inside the load area. Do not place everything at either end, or to one side. This will make steering more difficult, or uneven.

As a matter of course, you should inspect all the lights on the trailer to confirm that they are in working order. To some people, this might seem like unnecessary exertion, but it is considerate towards other road users and can prevent accidents. It is also legally required. The same applies to the use of mirrors, which should offer an unobstructed view to the driver.

Towing is an effective method of cutting costs or securing accommodation during long-distance holidays. Those who use this method, however, need to maintain the correct attitude through their observance of the relevant safety measures. This is not only to ensure their own peace of mind, but the safe use of our roads by other people as well.