Towing
| DISCLAIMER | The following information in this guide is intended as a guide only. It is as accurate at the time of issuing as the editor is able to make it. We i.e Kent Trailers or any other person associated with the publication of this guide does not accept any responsibility for any inaccuracies which may be in the text. It is the responsibility of any person wishing to depend on the facts contained in this guide to check for themselves with the relevant authorities for any updating of regulations, or changes in the law. |
| Loading your trailer | Loads must be securely tied down. There must be no load projections overhanging the trailer that might cause danger to other road users, loads should be evenly distributed across the trailer and positioned in such a way as to keep the nose weight within the recommended limits. |
| Hitching up | Apply the trailer handbrake,
remove any dust covers and security devices
wind the jockey wheel to enable the hitch to elevate to the required height.
If possibel enlist a friend to see you back towards the hitch reverse slowly back.
roll trailer up to the rear of the towing vehicle.
Lower the trailer by means of the jockey wheel assembly onto the towball of the vehicle.
Some coupling heads have a locking handle which stays up then automatically locks onto the ball,
others have to be held up and may have an indicator to show when the ball is in place.
Once the coupling head appears locked on, lower the jockey wheel a few turns lift the back of the vehicle to prove the coupling head is on properly,
then fully raise the jockey wheel before unclamping it and, finally, securely locking it in place in the
raised position.
Check that the jockey wheel does not obstruct
the coupling overrun mechanism.
Attach safety breakaway cable to the rear of vehicle.
This cable will apply the hand brake if for any reason the trailer becomes detached whilst towing.
Do not loop it round the towball neck Check that the breakaway and lighting cables have enough slack for
cornering but does not touch the ground.
Check all lights and indicators. It is your responsibility as the driver to ensure all lights work. For further indepth information go to National Trailer and Towing Assoc web site ntta |
| On the road | Speed limits:
Speed limits for cars towing caravans or trailers. 30mph limit applies on all roads with street lighting unless signs show otherwise. 50mph applies on single carriageways unless signs show otherwise. 60mph applies on dual carriageways and motorways. You must not travel in the right-hand lane of a motorway with three lanes or more if you are driving a vehicle towing a trailer or caravan. |
