In the transport business, pulling a heavy trailer must be done correctly in order to ensure safety. A 26,000 lb. load, for example, should be pulled down the road by something more than a ¾ ton truck. Attempting to tow a load of that size with a truck that small is an invitation for disaster. So how do you know if you are doing all you can to tow a load safely?
Towing Ratings Were Designed For A Reason
During your towing setup, all factors should be considered. You may not necessarily be all good to go if your new trailer weighs 6,000 lbs. and your GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) is 9,000 lbs. Dangerous situations can be created by such an assumption. Manufacturers love to inflate their vehicle’s weight capacity. They seldom take into consideration the tongue weight, the hitch, and more. It’s like putting a heavy load into a suitcase that is exceedingly strong, only to have the handle break when you try to pick it up. If a hitch is only rated for 500 lbs., and your trailer is rated for 12,000, trying to haul a load heavier than that 500 lbs. will lead to trouble.
Trailer And Truck Combinations
It is essential that trailer and truck combinations be purchased in the right order. First things first – ideally, you should try to buy the trailer first. After that, purchase a truck that is capable of safely handling the load. For instance, a Ford F-150 has a 9,000 lb. towing capacity. Unfortunately, the manufacturers only put a hitch on it that has a max tongue weight of 500 lbs. anda max total weight of 5,000 lbs.It doesn’t make much sense, does it? And that’s where a lot of people run into trouble.
If you’d like to calculate the tongue weight on a bumper pull, click here for a handy calculator.
What About A Weight Distribution System?
You can help a car or truck manage bigger hauling loads if you distribute some of the weight onto the other axles. A weight distribution system removes a portion of the weight off of the tongue. One typical weight distribution system consists of weight distribution bars, chains, and brackets that go on the trailer’s tongue. But even with this system, you may still not be able to pull a really heavy load safely.
Also, to assure the trailer and truck are level with each other, always be sure that the hitch is at the proper level.
Be Safe!
What it all boils down to is safety. Never haul a load without first making sure that all cables, emergency chains, and break away systems are correctly hooked up. Make sure that the tow vehicle is rated by the manufacturer for the load size you’re pulling and that the vehicle is overly sufficient for safely pulling the load.
Mickey carries beverage trailers, bulk trailers, party trailers, and much more. We also have a vast array of parts, most of which can be delivered the day after ordering. And with service centers located all over America, there is likely a place near you for quality workmanship, parts, and customer service. Contact Mickey today to see how we can be of assistance.