Towing Capacity: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Your Vehicle’s Pulling Power

Posted on April 12, 2024 by Zores

Towing is a service of utility and an adventure facilitator, bridging the gap between necessities and leisure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, an RVer, or simply someone who occasionally needs to haul a load, understanding the interplay between vehicles and towing capacity is paramount. Towing is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor – it encompasses a world of vehicle types, each with its own towing nuances.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the key considerations for choosing a vehicle suitable for towing, explain towing capacities, dissect the fine art of towing accessories, and arm you with the knowledge to ensure you’re always towing safely and efficiently.

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Why Towing Capacity is Crucial

Before we explore the vehicles themselves, it’s important to underscore why understanding towing compatibility is not just an added feature but a critical aspect of vehicle ownership. In the world of towing, what you’re pulling – be it a lightweight trailer, a massive fifth-wheel RV, or your neighbor’s broken-down car – directly impacts the vehicle’s performance, safety, and even legal standing.

A vehicle not designed for towing can be prone to mechanical stress, less responsive on the road, and potentially risky. Conversely, a well-matched towing machine means peace of mind on the highway and the freedom to take your lifestyle with you wherever you go.

Trucks for Towing

When it comes to raw towing power, trucks are at the forefront. From mid-sized pickups to heavy-duty monsters, trucks offer the payload capacity and torque required for serious towing duties. Four-wheel drives, diesel engines, and integrated towing packages make many trucks formidable towers.

Light-Duty Pickups

For smaller jobs like moving a couple of ATVs or towing a small boat, a light-duty pickup with a V6 engine and a mid-range towing package can do the trick. These trucks often boast towing capacities in the 5,000-7,000 pound range, making them the go-to for many casual tower needs.

Heavy-Duty and Super Duty Trucks

When the weight starts climbing or you need to tow over long distances, it’s time to turn to the heavy hitters. Super Duty and heavy-duty trucks can haul weights that are often limited not by the truck, but by the mandatory use of commercial-grade licenses and road regulations.

Towing Capacity Ratings for SUVs and Vans

SUVs and vans occupy the middle ground between the sheer force of a truck and the nimbleness of a commuter car. With the rise in popularity of SUVs and crossovers, many manufacturers have tailored their designs to offer respectable towing capabilities, meeting the needs of smaller travel trailers and horse trailers alike.

Full-Size and Crossover SUVs

Full-size SUVs and the sportier crossovers have become a favorite for families and adventurists due to their spacious interiors and the ability to hitch a load with relative ease. Towing packages on these vehicles often include enhancements to the cooling and electrical systems, ensuring the vehicle stays in peak performance even under load.

Passenger and Cargo Vans

Vans have towing in their DNA, with models such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit being adopted by professional tow services and DIY movers alike. These vehicles offer the power of a truck with greater storage capacity and a lower load floor, catering to a broader range of towing needs.

The Science Behind Towing Capacity

Towing capacity is more than just a number – it’s a reflection of a vehicle’s engineering and intended use. Several factors contribute to a vehicle’s towing capacity and understanding them can guide you when selecting the right vehicle for your specific towing needs.

Weight Ratings

Gross vehicle weight, gross combined weight, tongue weight – these terms may sound technical, but they are crucial in maintaining safe towing practices. Familiarize yourself with the terminology and ensure you never exceed the manufacturer’s stated limits for each.

Engine Power and Torque

A vehicle’s engine is the beating heart of towing, and a more powerful engine usually translates to higher towing capabilities. Look for vehicles with tow-specific engines or torquey powertrains that can handle the extra weight without breaking a sweat.

Transmission and Axle Ratios

Vehicles designed for towing often come equipped with gear ratios optimized for pulling, rather than speed. This can significantly impact the vehicle’s towing capacity and efficiency, providing the necessary torque multiplication to move heavy loads with ease.

Braking Systems

Towing doesn’t just test the engine – it’s a challenge for the entire vehicle, including the brakes. Many vehicles with towing capabilities come with specialized brake systems, and in the case of larger loads, supplementary brakes for the trailer itself may be necessary.

Accessories That Can Boost Towing Capabilities

Sometimes, the vehicle’s innate towing capabilities aren’t quite enough, or the addition of a specific accessory can make the towing experience exponentially better. Here, we’ll look at the main enhancements that can be made to boost your vehicle’s capacity and, just as importantly, your peace of mind.

Towing Hitches and Couplers

Hitches are the literal backbone of the towing operation and are designed to attach the trailer to your vehicle securely. Ensure you select the right class hitch for your vehicle, which is determined by the weight it can safely support.

Towing Mirrors

A clear line of sight is essential when towing, especially in heavy traffic or when reversing. Towing mirrors can extend your view, showcasing the full width of your trailer and alerting you to any potential dangers or obstructions.

Brake Controllers

For trailers with brakes, a brake controller is essential. It syncs the trailer’s braking system with the vehicle’s, distributing the stopping power effectively and reducing wear on the towing vehicle’s brakes.

Suspension Upgrades

Towing adds significant weight to the rear of the vehicle, which can cause sagging and affect handling. Suspension upgrades can level the vehicle and improve stability, especially when cruising at highway speeds.

Engine and Transmission Modifications

For those who need to tow at the extreme ends of the spectrum, engine tune-ups and potential transmission modifications can provide the extra power and control necessary. However, these are specialized modifications best handled by professionals in the field.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for Your Towing Needs

Selecting a vehicle for towing is a balancing act of power, utility, and personal preferences. Before making a purchase, consider these questions:

What specifically are you planning to tow?
How often will you be towing?
Will you need to venture off-road or through challenging terrains?
Do you prioritize fuel economy over towing capacity?

By answering these, you can focus on vehicles that match your towing lifestyle and find a compatible partner for your towing adventures.

In Closing

Towing can transform the way we travel, work, and play, offering us the freedom to bring our world along for the ride. Selecting the right vehicle for towing is an investment in that freedom, ensuring you can tow not just safely, but with the confidence to tackle whatever lay on the road ahead. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional hauler, the bond between vehicle and towed is one to be respected and understood, with the right vehicle being the linchpin of that trust.

This guide is only the beginning of your towing machine knowledge. We encourage you to continue your exploration, speaking with experts, and, if possible, getting hands-on experience with different vehicle types and towing scenarios. Knowledge in this realm not only enhances your daily choices in transportation but also opens the door to a host of travel and hauling experiences that can enrich your life in more ways than one.

For those seeking immediate professional towing service, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour roadside assistance and tow truck service in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We provide towing, recovery, equipment transport, car lockout service, flat tire service, jump starts, refueling, and more!

10 Essential Items You Need to Tow a Trailer Safely

Posted on June 28, 2023 by Zores

Are you planning to tow a trailer? Whether it’s for recreational use or to haul goods, there are certain items that you need in order to safely and securely tow your trailer. From the right hitch equipment to the proper lighting, here are 10 essential items you need in order to tow a trailer safely.

By investing in these ten essential items, you can ensure safe and secure travel when hauling your cargo. Read on for more information about what they are and why they’re important!

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What You Need to Tow a Trailer Safely

1. The Right Hitch: The right hitch is essential for safe trailer towing. Choose a ball mount that’s compatible with your vehicle’s frame and can support the weight of the trailer and whatever you’ll be hauling. You might also need a trailer hitch adapter.

2. Safety Chains: Safety chains are an important item when it comes to towing safety. They provide a backup connection between your vehicle and the trailer. This helps in case something like a lost pin or broken coupler occurs while on the road.

3. Brake Controller: If you’re planning to tow a heavier load above 3,000 pounds, you’ll need an electronic brake controller installed in the vehicle. Trailer brake controllers will activate and control your brakes when slowing down or stopping. This is essential for maintaining safe control of your trailer.

4. Trailer Lights: Make sure you have the proper lights attached to your trailer before setting out on any journey. The law requires that you have brake lights, turn signals, and running lights when towing a trailer. So, make sure everything is connected properly prior to departure.

5. Hitch Lock: A hitch lock will not only deter potential thieves from stealing your gear, but it will also keep your trailer securely connected to your vehicle during transport.

5 More Items for Trailer Towing

6. Towing Mirrors: When hauling a trailer, the view in the rear view mirror may be blocked due to its size and length. Installing larger tow mirrors can help increase visibility while driving. This makes towing a safe and enjoyable experience.

7. Extra Fluid: Be sure to top up all the essential fluids in your vehicle prior to setting out on any long journeys. They may be needed when towing a heavier load. This includes checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid levels.

8. Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS): A tire pressure monitoring system is an important item for keeping track of your trailer’s tire pressure while you drive. It also helps detect potential problems with the tires before they occur. Problems include low or overinflated tires which can lead to dangerous situations on the road.

9. Jack Stands: When loading or unloading cargo from the trailer, jack stands will help to ensure that your trailer is securely supported and not at risk of tipping over.

10. Fire Extinguisher: Make sure you have a fire extinguisher in the vehicle in case anything goes wrong during transport. This could include an electrical fault or fuel spill whilst on the road. Having an extinguisher nearby can be invaluable if a fire were to break out.

In Summary

By investing in these 10 essential items, you’ll be ensuring safe and secure travel when hauling your cargo. Remember to check each item carefully before you hit the road, as well as periodically checking for wear and tear throughout the life of your equipment.

How To Prepare Your Trailer and Hitch Before Hitting the Road

One of the most crucial aspects of safe towing is ensuring that your hitch is properly secured–otherwise, it could lead to disaster on the highway. Additionally, take the time to inspect your trailer for any signs of damage or wear and tear, as well as ensure that your weight distribution and sway control systems are in good working order. By taking these steps, you can enjoy peace of mind and a smoother ride on your next trailer excursion–whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip.

Looking for a professional towing service near you? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for a wide range of towing services in Indianapolis and surrounding counties. We offer everything from light-duty and long distance towing to heavy equipment transportation, wrecker service, and more. We transport all throughout Indiana and across state lines.

Can My Car Tow a Full Size Trailer?

Posted on November 21, 2022 by Zores

Trailer towing safety is a serious issue that all drivers should be aware of. When towing a trailer, it is important to remember that your vehicle is now longer and wider than normal. You need to take these factors into account when driving. Make sure you are aware of the maximum weight your vehicle can tow. And as always, use caution when turning or changing lanes. But before you even think about operating a vehicle with a trailer in tow, first ensure your car can handle the load.

Continue reading to learn how to determine your vehicle’s tow capacity, plus a backup plan if you cannot get the job done safely.

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Calculating Towing Capacity

When asking yourself, “Can my car tow a full size trailer?”, there are several factors you should take into consideration. While some small to mid-sized cars are capable of towing heavier loads than others, the size and weight of the trailer are key components in this equation.

Before getting started, you’ll want to check your vehicle’s manufacturer-specified towing capacity. Compare this rating to the size and weight of the trailer you are towing. This information is typically located in your car manual or online. Make sure to account for any additional factors that might affect its payload. This includes the number of passengers, cargo, engine size or type, and fuel economy.

Safety Tips For Towing a Trailer

Once you’ve determined your car is capable of towing the trailer, there are several additional steps you should take to ensure a safe towing experience. You should always check that all lights, brakes, and hookups are functioning properly. Additionally, you can create a checklist before setting out to help you stay organized and prepared. Some important items you should check off the list include double-checking tire pressure, ensuring all cargo is properly secured and balanced, and making sure you have enough fuel for the journey.

If your car isn’t capable of towing a trailer with the payload you need, or if you’re new to trailer towing, it’s a good idea to consider renting a larger vehicle. Your cargo and passengers are safer during the trip with this option. It can also avoiding additional wear and tear on your own car. Or just hire a professional Indianapolis transport company to tow your trailer for you!

If you take these precautions before setting out on any towing journey, you’ll be better prepared for a successful trip. With the right vehicle and a bit of planning, you can safely tow your trailer and enjoy the ride.

Should I Install a Transmission Cooler to Tow a Trailer With My Car?

Posted on March 28, 2022 by Zores

If you are new to the world of trailer towing, you are already on the right track. Research and preparation are critical parts to towing safety. In order to tow your trailer, you need to fully understand the parts, process, laws, and safety regulations involved. On your way to learning how to tow, you have probably already gathered most of your towing parts, including your hitch receiver, ball mount, hitch ball, pin and clips, safety chains, and more.

But if you plan on using an automatic transmission vehicle to tow your trailer, there is another towing accessory that should never be overlooked, and that is an aftermarket transmission cooler. This is especially important this time of year when seasons are warming up.

Continue reading to learn what a transmission cooler is and what it does, and better understand their importance.

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The Importance of Transmission Protection When Towing a Trailer

When towing a trailer, a vehicle’s automatic transmission must work harder to manage the extra weight and resistance of its load. And when a transmission works harder, it creates more heat, which is not good for transmissions. An aftermarket transmission cooler is a towing accessory that prevents an automatic transmission from overheating as it tows. This allows a vehicle to perform at its strongest while towing.

They operate by cooling heated fluid from the transmission, power steering, and engine. The heated fluid passes over the fins in the cooler, cools down, and then flows back to its original source in a loop-like pattern. This process keeps the transmission and other vehicular components from overheating as you tow your trailer.

How to Install a Transmission Cooler

There are a few different installation methods for transmission coolers. Most often, they are attached to the radiator or air conditioner condenser with narrow plastic rods, pads, and fasteners. You can also install them using a metal bracket mounting kit. Be sure to choose a cooler with quality cooling performance. The general rule of thumb is, “the bigger the cooler, the better the cooling capacity.”

Also, “plate-and-fin” coolers tend to perform better than “tube-and-fin” coolers. So that is something to think about when choosing one for your vehicle. Consider talking to a local and trusted tow truck operator for advice on mounting a transmission cooler for towing purposes.

Do you need professional trailer towing? Or are you dealing with a roadside trailer emergency? Contact Zore’s Towing for economically-priced towing and recovery service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve all of Central Indiana.

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Trailer Towing Tips You Need to Know Before You Hit the Road

Posted on February 28, 2022 by Zores

No matter how much experience you have, it is important to do a basic trailer towing review before you hit the road on any long or short distance trip. Whether you are traversing the country or just to the other side of town, safety is the most important element of towing a trailer.

Continue reading to learn some of the most important trailer towing tips you need to know, including a recommended pre-trip checklist, road safety, and jackknife prevention.

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Top Considerations for Pulling a Trailer

Pulling a trailer is no simple feat. From safety and clearance precautions to regulation towing equipment like hitches and signals, towing laws, licensing, and more, there is much you need to know and stay on top of when it comes to trailer towing. Not only do towing vehicles require more stopping time when pulling a trailer, but they must also adhere to all local and state towing regulations and traffic laws.

For instance, some states require anyone towing a trailer to drive slower and remain in the right lane at all times, while other states have more specific or unique regulations for trailer towing. It is important to check with your county clerk’s office to ensure that you are in accordance with all local and state trailer towing guidelines.

It is important that you are properly equipped to safely to a trailer, which includes being properly licensed to tow, plus having all of your necessary safety chains, lights and signals, hitches, receivers, and all other towing components in order. It is important to check these components before leaving on every trip. This brings us to our recommended pre-trip checklist for trailer towing.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Before hitting the road with trailer in tow, check all of these components. First:

Hitch – if you have a standard ball hitch, your trailer tongue should be properly attached. According to manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure the locking mechanism is secured with the lock pin in proper position. Check that your hitch is secure by trying to pull it up. If you can pull it off, then it is not attached properly.

Trailer Connection Chains – check that the connection chains between your trailer in the towing vehicle are crisscrossed and in the right position, which would be directly in between the vehicle of trailer.

Brake Lights and Signals – Your next priority is to check that the trailer brake lights and turn signals are in sync with your towing vehicle. You will likely need a partner to help you with this step, but you can also use the reflection of another window or vehicle windshield.

Towing a Trailer on the Road

Once you do hit the road with your trailer in tow, there are still some more rules and considerations you need to keep in mind. It is strongly encouraged to drive directly to a large open area or a parking lot to practice your maneuvering skills. Practice backing up and parking, as well as stopping and turning. Allow yourself to get a better feel or reminder of just how big your caravan is. This little bit of practice can really help you be more confident on the road, which in turn can make you a safer driver.

Jackknifing prevention

One of the most common trailer towing errors is jackknifing, which usually results from backing up incorrectly. This can cause the trailer and towing vehicle to turn into an L or V shape, which can be damaging to both the hitch and the trailer. This is a very difficult position to get out of, which is what is important to learn how to avoid in the first place.

Practicing in an open area or parking lot, as mentioned before, can really help you get a better feel for your trailer and avoid jackknifing errors. To avoid jackknifing when towing a trailer, just take it slow and never let the trailer and towing vehicle get beyond an L or V shape.

Do you need professional towing assistance or have a roadside trailer emergency? Contact Zore’s Towing for economically-priced towing and recovery service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve all of Central Indiana.

How to Do a Pre-Trip Check Before Hitting the Road With Your Trailer

Posted on June 22, 2020 by Zores

Summer has officially begun, which means everyone is looking for ways to take full advantage of the amiable weather. From fishing and kayaking, to biking, camping, road tripping, and more, there are several summertime options to choose from, most of which likely requires the use of a trailer haul! But when you plan to hitch a trailer and hit the road this summer, whether driving a short distance or a long one, it is important to know how to stay safe. Fortunately, your experience puts you in a great position to haul your trailer from one point to another. So, all you really need is a reminder on how to perform a pre-trip inspection!

Continue reading to learn what to do when preparing your trailer haul for a road trip this summer!

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Pre-Trip Trailer Check Guide

The most important part of your pre-trip inspection is to ensure your trailer is properly connected to the hitch. Equally important is to ensure the vehicle and trailer brake lights and signals are connected and compatible. Here are the steps to take to ensure all of this and more:

Step 1 – Check your hitch.

If you have a standard ball hitch, the trailer tongue should attach to the towing vehicle’s hitch, properly. Test the quality of this connection by physically lifting the trailer. If it is properly attached, you should not be able to lift it at all. Be sure that the lock pins and locking mechanisms are also snapped into place, correctly. Along with checking your hitch in this step, be sure your trailer safety chains are properly crisscrossed and connected. To complete this first step, also check that your trailer connection has enough clearance. Any trailer wheels or stands should be placed back in their UP or DRIVE position.

Step 2 – Check Brake Lights and Signals

As mentioned, checking that the brake and signal lights are functioning in alignment with your towing vehicle’s lights is a top priority. Not only do you check that they work, you need to also ensure they are aligned with your towing vehicle. When you apply the brake in your car, the brake lights should illuminate on your trailer lights, and so forth. If you are alone, use the reflection from other cars or windows to see the lights. You can also do this the night before in the dark. Also in this step, ensure that the electrical wires that make these brake and signal light connections are cleared from the ground, as well as all other undercarriage parts.

🏞 You are now ready to drive!

It does help to practice a little before the big drive day to give you some more confidence on the road. Practice turning, backing up, parking, and disconnecting the trailer from the hitch. See our blog, “Frequently Asked Questions About Towing a Trailer” to learn some more tips and tricks for safe trailer towing.

Who to Trust for 24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance in Indiana

If your vehicle breaks down in Indiana at any point during your trip, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing recovery services you can trust. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Towing a Trailer

Posted on April 5, 2018 by Zores

Towing a trailer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. As long as you have the right experience, knowledge, and equipment, you can easily tow a trailer without any difficulties. It is always a great idea to review some helpful trailer towing tips before executing your voyage, especially when it comes to towing safety. Not only do you want to ensure you are protected on the road, it is important to do what it takes so that others are protected as well. In addition to your safety and the safety of others, you want to protect your cargo too.

Continue reading to learn some common questions and answers about trailer towing, and what options are available for those who are not equipped to tow a trailer themselves.

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Should I Rent or Buy a Trailer?

Although you can choose to rent a trailer for towing needs, you also have the option of investing in one. In order to determine which avenue is most cost-effective, you must consider various factors, including trailer type, trailer cost, trailer storage, and most importantly, frequency of use. If you are going to use a trailer often and for many years, purchasing one would pay for itself overtime.

Which Vehicles are Suitable for Towing a Trailer?

You can use virtually any make or model car to tow a trailer as long as it is equipped to fit a hitch. Not all cars and trucks are built with hitch receivers. These vehicles, although rare, are not equipped for towing a trailer. Check the owners’ manual to confirm the trailer towing capabilities of your vehicle.

What Do I Need to Tow a Trailer?

There are six paramount parts you will need for any tow. These parts include a trailer hitch receiver, safety chains, pin and clip, ball mount, trailer hitch ball, and wiring harness. Although many towing guidelines will not mention safety chains as a “necessary” component for towing, they are actually mandatory under law.

Which Hitch Do I Need for My Trailer?

There are a variety of tow hitches available, so it is recommended to learn the different types before choosing one for your truck or trailer. Refer to your trailers’ manual to determine the tongue weight and trailer weight when empty. Then add the weight of the load you expect to haul. The total amount of weight of the trailer can help you determine which size hitch to use. It is a good idea to always get a larger setup then you actually require, so that you have room to change and adjust as you need.

Do I Need a Hitch Lock?

Hitch locks are meant to stop thieves from stealing trailers and the commodities they carry. They are lock a trailer hitch and hitch receiver together, which makes it impossible to lift the receiver and “un-hitch” a trailer. The trailer hitch can only be removed when the hitch lock is open. There are a few different hitch locks available for purchase, all with different features and qualities.

Do I Need a Permit to Tow a Trailer?

To tow a trailer, you do not need any special permits. You do, however, require a valid drivers’ license. On top of a drivers’ license, you will need to abide by your states towing regulations. All states will require safety chains, trailer lights, and a license plate light to tow a trailer legally.

Where Can I Find Reputable Towing Assistance in Indianapolis?

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Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for safe and affordable Indianapolis tow truck services you can trust. Our licensed and insured tow truck operators provide punctual and prompt tow truck services, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! We also provide numerous community services, roadside assistance services, wrecker and recovery services, and much more. Call 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate, anytime!

What Parts Do You Need to Tow a Trailer?

Posted on February 8, 2016 by Zores

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No matter what it is you intend to tow, there are principle accessories and parts required to turn, haul, and maneuver your trailer safely and smoothly. Without the necessary components, towing anything at all can be a very dangerous and risky choice. In fact, you probably wouldn’t get farther than the end of the driveway without the proper towing parts and fittings. If you are interested in purchasing a trailer, or simply want to brush up on towing rules and guidelines, start by reviewing the tools and parts
needed for a safe and legal tow.

Towing Accessories

There are six chief trappings you will need for any tow. These parts include a trailer hitch receiver, safety chains, pin and clip, ball mount, trailer hitch ball, and wiring harness. Although many towing guidelines will not mention safety chains as a “necessary” component for towing, they are actually mandatory under law. Beneath their description below, you’ll see why.

Trailer Hitch Receiver

The trailer hitch receiver is the portion that connects to the frame of a vehicle on its underside. They are made to “receive” certain types of tow ball mounts. They are assigned a “class” rating that defines their weight capacity, or the amount of weight a trailer is intended to pull. There are five classes, from Class I to Class V. It is vital to use the proper class hitch receiver for the safest and most effective towing possible.

Trailer Hitch Ball

Also called a tow ball or trailer ball, trailer hitch balls come in three different sizes and must also be matched according to weight capacity. The trailer coupler mounts and locks on top of the ball hitch, creating the link between the vehicle and the trailer. Sizes are measured in diameter and include 1-7/8”, 2”, or 2-5/16 inches.

Ball Mount

The ball mount, or drawbar, is the component that fits into the trailer hitch opening and provides a platform to mount the hitch ball. These come in different shapes, sizes, and styles depending on the type of tow you need.

Pin and Clip

The pin and clip is a device that holds the ball mount within the trailer hitch receiver. You can also purchase hitch locks for additional security. It helps to prevent theft of your towing accessories.

Wiring Harness

A wiring harness is used for connecting power to the lights for the trailer. This includes turn signals, flashers, brake lights, and parking lights. Not only are these mandatory under law, they are extremely important for road safety. These should be checked every single time a vehicle and trailer are driven, even multiple times per day.

Safety Chains

Although a trailer can be towed without using safety chains, it is like driving a car without wearing your seatbelt. Safety chains ensure that, in the case of an emergency, the trailer and hitch do not become completely separated from each other while on the road. They cross underneath the towing vehicle and trailer, securing the trailer load to the trailer hitch. Without them, a trailer could entirely detach from a vehicle and go awry on the road.

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Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for a professional tow truck services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We retain a full fleet of trucks and equipment, allowing our towing operators the ability to tow anything from airplanes to semi-trucks, and much more! We also offer emergency traffic clearance, storm damage clearance, emergency roadside assistance, free towing advice, junk car auctions, scrap metal recycling, and much more. Call 317-247-8484 to learn more about our Indianapolis towing services, today.

Tips to Towing a Trailer Safely

Posted on July 19, 2012 by Zores

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If you intend to haul a car, motorcycle, or anything else with the use of a trailer, you should know all there is to know about hitches, trailers, towing, and safety. Safe towing requires this type of knowledge, and preferably, experience as well. Everyone has seen that amateur tower on the road, and goes to great lengths to avoid his swaying trailer. Do not be this amateur ever. Once you have learned to be a towing expert, here are a few extra tips to towing your trailer safer.

Avoid Parking on Grades

Try to avoid parking on steep grades. If you have to park in a spot with a slight grade, be sure to have someone outside before you place the gear into park. Have them put down wood or cement blocks on the downhill side of the trailer wheels. Once the blocks are set, shift the gear into park and then release your foot from the brakes. This is the way you should park a trailer on a grade so that it cannot get locked into the parking gear due to the excess weight on the transmission.

Drive at Moderate Speeds

Driving at higher speeds while towing a trailer causes the dangerous swaying showcased by the above mentioned “amateur”. These are the drivers we typically avoid, so do not become one yourself! Driving at slower speeds reduces the potential for sliding, skidding, and slipping when approaching bumpy roads or stopping.

Adjust Your Braking

A larger vehicle and heavier load will need more time to come to a stop on the road. Be sure to adjust your braking times so that you have enough time to come to a complete stop, and avoid the risk of running red lights and intersections. Keep in mind that approaching a stop at the bottom of a hill will need even more barking time.

Passing Other Vehicles

When planning to pass someone on the highway or road while towing a trailer, be sure to signal far in advance. Often times, other drivers will neglect to cooperate with larger trucks, vans, and trailers, and not pay attention to them. By letting them know your intentions far ahead of time, they will be able to react accordingly. Also, be sure to allow extra distance when switching lanes, and keep in mind the traffic behind you.

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The importance of safety on the road while towing trailers, bikes, cars, and other loads, is limitless. Be sure you consult an experienced tow truck driver before attempting a tow on your own. For more information on towing trailers or if you need a tow in Indiana, visit our Indianapolis Towing Service website and give us a call today!