|
Introduction
|
Hitch systems, towing packages,
tongue weight, and driving permits—there’s a lot more to towing
a trailer than just hitching up and taking off down the road.
This brochure provides general information and tips that can
help you make safe decisions when purchasing and driving a
tow vehicle and trailer for noncommercial, personal use. It
covers the following topics:
- How the size and weight of
a trailer affect the selection of a tow vehicle
- Things to consider if you
already have a tow vehicle
- The importance of trailer
manufacturers’ tow ratings
- How to measure the weight
of a trailer
- The hitching, braking, and
wiring systems that connect tow vehicles with trailers
- Tire safety
- Proper loading and weight
distribution of cargo and equipment
- State and local requirements
for towing a trailer
- A pre-departure checklist
- Safety tips for driving with
a trailer
- Safety tips for maintaining
a tow vehicle and trailer
This brochure is not a substitute
for the technical information found in manufacturers’ towing
guides and vehicle owner’s manuals. Its purpose is to give
you some basic information about factors to consider and equipment
you will need to ensure your safety and that of your passengers,
as well as the safety of other people on the road, when you
are towing a trailer.
Table of Contents | Next
|
|