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Common Cargo Trailer Towing Mistakes to Avoid

Mar. 15 2023 Safety By True Value Trailers & Power Equipment

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When it comes to towing a cargo trailer, mistakes can prove to be quite costly. Poor weight distribution, bad brakes, overdriven engines, and incorrectly inflated tires are just a few of the problems that can arise from poor towing practices. These mistakes can not only cause serious damage to your tow vehicle and cargo trailer but can also lead to serious accidents. Here we discuss some of the most common cargo trailer towing mistakes and how to avoid them.

Incorrect Weight Distribution

Proper weight distribution is crucial when you’re towing a cargo trailer. If the cargo is not evenly distributed, it can cause trailer sway, tire blowouts, and even accidents. To avoid these problems, make sure to balance your cargo weight from left to right and place 60% towards the front of your trailer and 40% towards the back. You’ll also want to stay under the gross vehicle weight ratings of your tow vehicle and trailer.

Ignoring Brake Maintenance

Your cargo trailer's brakes are essential for safe towing, and poorly maintained brakes can be dangerous. Check your brake system regularly and ensure that brake shoes aren't worn down and that your brakes are correctly adjusted. Ignoring brake maintenance can lead to excessive wear and even cause your brakes to burst into flames under too much strain.

Putting Your Vehicle into Overdrive

If you're driving in hilly areas, you may be tempted to put your tow vehicle into overdrive to make climbing inclines easier. However, this is a terrible idea that can damage the transmission and cause it to overheat. The overall strain that overdrive puts on your tow vehicle just isn't worth it. Instead, stay within weight restrictions and your engine's power capabilities.

Driving on Bad Tires

Driving on bad tires is never a good idea, but it can be especially dangerous when towing. Make sure that all your tires, both on your trailer and towing vehicle, are correctly inflated to the manufacturer's recommended psi levels and have sufficient tread depth to gain traction on the road.

Insufficient Lubrication

Proper lubrication is essential to keep your cargo trailer's moving parts running smoothly. Axles, bearings, and pivot points need regular greasing to stay mobile, and the tongue jack needs to be lubricated to prevent it from freezing up. Neglecting lubrication can lead to breakdowns and expensive repairs.

Avoiding these common trailer towing mistakes can save you a lot of hassle down the road. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality cargo trailer, stop by True Value Trailers & Power Equipment to see what we’ve got in stock. You’ll find us in Penrose and Florence, CO, and we proudly serve all those in Pueblo and Colorado Springs.