Tips for Towing Your Trailer

Posted July 4, 2017

School is out and it’s officially summer vacation time. As Canadians, we know that most of you will be heading to the lake and towing your boat or trailer so here are some tips on towing your recreational vehicles this summer:

Know Your Load Capacity

The first thing you need to know if the amount of load that your truck can handle. You can find this on the sticker on your side door. You also need to know the load index of your tires to know the amount of weight they can support; this can be found on your tire’s sidewall. If you’re unsure, your Integra Tire expert can help you out.

Set it Up Safely

Make sure that your load is balanced so that it won’t sway. Use safety chains and make sure that they are crossed under the hitch in an X pattern. Do an inspection of your load. Check the harness connector and cables. Also check the nut under your hitch ball to ensure that it’s tightened.

Save On Gas

You can save on gas by dumping your water tanks and sewage before you leave and fill up your tanks close to your destination to help lighten your load.

Adjust Your Driving

Carrying a load on the back of your vehicle requires you to adjust your driving habits. Make sure to give yourself an increased stopping distance in case you need to come to an unexpected stop. If you can anticipate the stop, make sure to still give yourself ample distance. You also need to understand the speed that you and your load can handle. Understand that you won’t be able to drive as fast on the highway as you otherwise would without your load.

Master Parking Your Trailer

When you first try to park your trailer, it’s best to have a spotter who can direct you where you need to go. It’s also a good idea to practice backing up your trailer in an empty parking lot so that you can get used to the motions. If having a spotter isn’t an option, then you need to use your side mirrors to guide you. Since you won’t be able to see out your rearview mirror, opt to have a backup warning alarm so passersby are warned to take caution.

Most of our Integra Tire locations sell trailer tires so come into your local dealer to find out any information you may need about your trailer and its tires.

Questions? Our Advisors are Happy to Help!

If you have questions about anything you've read in this resource page, contact your nearest dealer for more information. We are passionate in assisting our customers make the best choices to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape and keep their families safe.