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| Jayco Starcraft Model |
If you are planning a bit of a vacation, maybe as part of a family road trip, then you might need a bit of practice towing the trailer.
Using
a trailer is not that hard, however if you are not used to the experience then
it can be a little daunting. The real issue is getting used to the additional
weight and length of the trailer, combined with the unfamiliarity of driving a
new car.
So if
you are in this position, here are 9 tips to keep in mind to make sure you have
a safer road trip in your Ford and also feel more relaxed and confident when
towing the trailer.
1)
Firstly, take a look through the trailer manual. Caravans or Campers Trailers should come with their
own manual or maybe just a sticker on the inside that will have details
regarding what type of car you need to successfully tow your trailer. Then
check your Ford manual as you don't want to overload your Ford's engine.
2)
Then, you need to make sure there is a hitch package. This is a system to
attach the trailer electronics to the battery of your car. You really do need
this system as it will power the rear lights on your Caravans and Campers Trailers, ensuring that other drivers are
aware that you are on the road.
3)
You really should make you have a good view from your Ford. This could involve
mirrored extenders for your wing mirrors so that you can see the length of the
trailer and also give you better visibility of other road users, who may want to
overtake. A serious crash could not only ruin a holiday but could also cause
some serious damage, so be careful.
4)
Have a safety inspection before you put the key in the ignition. You need to
take the time to ensure that fittings and connections are to the required
standard. A thorough check will include: checking tyre pressure, checking hitch
wiring is long enough to account for turns, connecting the stabilizer and
equalizer, making sure the camper or trailer is level and putting the trailer
tongue in the right position.
5)
Before you put the key in the engine you need to make sure your belongings are
secure. You should do this as you don't want to arrive at your destination and
be surprised to find all your holiday gear is broken and in a thousand pieces.
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| Inside in Jayco Starcraft Model |
6)
Never go down a hill too fast. Switch to a low gear and crawl at slow speed
down the hill, this is perhaps the only way to deal with our hilly countryside.
7)
When you reverse you should be especially careful and take your time. If you
are steering then the slightest of adjustments on the steering wheel can damage
the camper and completely destroy the tow bar.
8)
You need to change your driving style to avoid tight and abrupt turns. Your
driving should be smooth and any steering should be made ahead of time, this
will ensure you remain safe during your trip.
9)
Lastly, most Fords should be find to tow a trailer but if you feel
uncomfortable then it might be a lot safer to lease a more powerful Ford
instead. For instance, a few months ago I took out a Ford contract hire deal
which enabled me to safely pull my trailer.
By sticking to the
advice given above you should have a really enjoyable time as part of your next
road holiday, irrespective of the final destination.
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