Hauling Your 4X4
Trailer hitch, towing horse trailer, heavy duty trailers, snowmobile
trailers
When somebody buys a pick up van, truck, SUV or jeep, he has opinion
of hauling and towing heavy loads with his vehicle. No doubt these vehicles
can be utilized for towing if done properly and safely. You will have
to be much careful if you are towing
the first time, especially heavy loads with your 4X4. I am suggesting
some useful tips for this purpose:
a. Choose Right vehicle for Right job
Not all the vehicles are suitable for all kind of jobs, e.g. you can’t
use your family car for hauling
furniture. You should choose the right vehicle for the job depending upon
the weight of the load and also the area it will cover.
Every vehicle has its own Tow Rating.
Tow Rating is the measure of maximum load a vehicle can tow. So first
check Tow Rating of your vehicle, and see if it is right for the luggage,
if not turn to some other suitable vehicle.
b. Check Brakes, Tires and Transmission of Your Vehicle Carefully
You are putting extra burden and tension on the components of your vehicle
when hauling or towing. Your vehicle may be capable for heavy duty work,
but you should ensure its every component is in its healthy condition.
Check that its tires are properly inflated. Poorly inflated tires are
prone to be damaged and put extra stress on the vehicle. Brakes should
also be checked properly. Brakes when applied in heavily loaded vehicle
will be less effective. You can not stop that vehicle instantly. Similarly
when you are hauling items to long distances or in uphill areas, vehicle’s
transmission may fail as it is pushed to its limit. So it should also
be in its healthy state.
c. Use the Right Hitch
A lot of hitches are available in the market and you have to choose one
which is best suitable for you. It depends on how much weight you propose
towing
and how much your vehicle can tow. It also depends upon the trailer to
be towed. Hidden hitch and Reese hitch are very popular these days. Also
Advanced Air Hitches support the unique hitching system and provides better
handling, traction and braking system. Some other hitches like standard
hitch, ball hitch and rapid hitch are also available in the market these
days. You have to choose one of these according to your needs.
d. Wiring and Brake Lights
Your towing expedition can also be for long distances. Make sure that
wiring system of your vehicle and brake lights are working properly for
use in nights. You should be extra careful while towing in the night for
the sake of safety of yourself and your towing 4X4.
I think that by following these simple but useful tips you can tow and
you’re your 4X4 more
safely
|
