Pulling Trailer Tips?

Question

Hello All, I will be pulling a trailer 1000 with my suv. The trailer is 7 x 10 single axle. My vehicle is a 2002 ford explorer. Does anyone have any tips on pulling a trailer this distance? Cruise control no cruise control? Overdrive no overdrive? Thanks

Answer 1

Use overdrive on long flat surfaces along with the cruise control, other than that don't use either one of them.

The way you load the trailer can determine how easy you can tow it. While loading, keep in mind that the tongue weight should be 10% to 15% of the overall trailer weight.

One of the main causes of trailer sway is not having a large enough percentage of trailer tongue weight compared to gross trailer weight.

To help prevent the trailer from swaying back and forth, a few things can be done. Try placing heavier cargo in the front of the trailer, ahead of the trailer's axle.

Also center the cargo left-to-right and use tie-downs to keep the load from sliding.

To conserve fuel when towing, travel at moderate speeds. Faster speeds increase wind resistance, reduce gas mileage, and place added strain on the vehicle and trailer.

Be extra cautious of potholes and other large bumps. Riding over one can damage the tow vehicle, trailer hitch and/or trailer. When pulling a trailer take your time and be careful.

If for some reason (a gust of wind, a downgrade, a pass by a larger vehicle, etc.) the trailer does begin to sway, the driver needs to assess the situation to determine the proper course of action

Do's - Good Towing Practice

Gradually reduce speed

Steady the steering wheel - sudden turns can cause more sway

Apply only the trailer brakes to help reduce trailer sway

Don'ts - NOT Good Towing Practice

Do Not slam on the brakes - jackknifing could occur

Do Not attempt to steer out of a sway situation

Do Not increase speed - Trailer sway increases in faster speeds

Do Not tow a trailer that continues to sway

Look at reloading the trailer or perhaps adding a sway control or a weight distribution system with sway control

Answer 2

Its windy this time of year and its blowing at 70mph through the mountains keep your speed down to 55mph and follow behind the big trucks because you'll save gas.

Answer 3

1. Speed limit is 55 with trailer

2. You must stay in the two R/H lanes, same as trucks.

3.CC only on flat surface in light traffic.

4. Lock out the O/D. You may forget it's on and overheat the trans, resulting in failure. It will use more gas, but gas is cheaper than a new tranny.

5. Monitor your gages constantly.

6. Stop regularly and check hookup, ball, lights etc

Answer 4

In response to your first responder. Don't ever draft a Semi! It is dangerous, for all of you that think it saves gas...you will think twice when I blow a tire and it damages your vehicle or throw debris up off the road and it damages your windshield.

To answer you question directly. Use common sense.

Go slow around curves.

Swing a little wider so you don't clip anything.

Keep your speed accordingly.

Keep the weight on the trlr distributed as evenly as possible.

Make sure your freight is secured WELL.

Answer 5

That's a pretty managable size trailer. Make sure to load it so there is a little more weight in the front of the trailer than the back (it helps maintain control). Don't use C/C or O/D. Make sure to allow some extra space when following and stopping due to the extra weight. Have a safe trip.

Answer 6

No O'drive under 80mph, and then only on flats.  set your mirrors properly so you can see past the trailer.   No cruise control, you need to be alert and in control.  Stop and take 10 every 2 hrs at least.  walk around, breath deep, get some circulation going.   Do not drive tired, stop after abt 8n hrs and rest for at least 4 or 5hrs, then finish the run.  if you're not used to such driving, it is very tiring and it's easy to fall asleep.   Pace yourself, drink fluids and eat low GI foods sparingly to avoid bloat and maintain energy.  Rest when you feel tired, because you will be.   Steady, modest speed, watching your gauges often to check your vehicle and your mirrors to check the traffic.   Be cool rether than warm, have fresh air on your face, do not use recirculated air in the cabin, always allow some fresh air.   have a water bottle in easy reach at all times.   do not use any drugs to assist staying awake or de-stressing, as they affect your judgment and ability to handle emergencies.  If possible have someone you can call at each stop to report progress, so If you don't make a point in reasonable time, they know from where to start looking for you, partic in adverse weather.