If your vehicle is a few years old, or you haven’t towed with it before, you might want to consider adding some such additional hardware yourself. Don’t underestimate the extremes that towing will have on your transmission and engine in the summer heat. Your dealership can offer helpful advice to prepare your truck or SUV for the job.
Don’t forget the tires, either. All should be properly inflated based on the recommendations in the owner’s manual. If your tires are worn out or questionable, replace them without delay. After all, they’re the only part of your vehicle that actually touches the road.
Richard Neumann is the Technical Support Manager for Ford Motor Company. He offers four important tips to remember for safe and enjoyable towing.
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Read your owner's manual
It's easy to forget the valuable resources that lay within the pages of your owner's manual. Tucked between the cover you will find information on how much your vehicle can tow - as it does vary, useful towing and driving tips, vehicle requirements as well as guidelines for proper vehicle maintenance.
Inspect your vehicle and trailer to ensure they are ready and capable
Prior to your first trailer towing experience, it's a good idea to have the vehicle and trailer inspected at your local dealership. As vehicle experts, they can help ensure that your vehicle is tow-ready and recommend a trailer specialist if needed. This is especially important if you have an older vehicle, as you'll want to re-confirm towing capability.
As always, drive safely
Safe driving is always recommended. Remember to watch your speed, leave room for extended braking distances, drive defensively and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Don't let anyone ride in the trailer and always use your turn signal when changing lanes or passing.
Secure your load
This is one of the most important things to remember - be sure to check that your cargo is well secured. Properly tie down the load, tuck tarps in tightly and tie off any rope ends. Before securing your cargo, ensure that your load is evenly distributed with at least 10 – 15 per cent of the weight resting on the tongue of the trailer hitch.
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