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Safely Towing a Trailer: Your Guide to Responsible and Secure Trailering

Tips for Safely Towing a Trailer

Whether you’re moving homes or transporting equipment for a DIY project, towing a trailer can be a convenient way to carry extra cargo. However, with the added weight and potential for instability, safely towing a trailer should be a top priority for every driver. Neglecting proper trailer safety measures can lead to accidents, injuries, and significant damage to your vehicle and trailer.

Our team is here to emphasize the importance of trailer safety and cover essential tasks such as trailer sway prevention, proper hitching techniques, routine safety checks, and the significance of trailer brake controllers.

Trailer Sway Prevention: Safeguard Your Ride

Trailer sway, sometimes known as fishtailing, occurs when the trailer starts oscillating side to side, pulling the tow vehicle with it. This phenomenon can be extremely dangerous if not addressed promptly. To ensure you’re safely towing your trailer, consider the following tips:

Weight Distribution: Properly distribute the load within the trailer, which keeps the center of gravity low and evenly distributes weight on both sides. An imbalanced load can lead to sway, especially during sudden maneuvers or crosswinds.

Sway Control Devices: Install sway control devices such as sway bars or weight distribution hitches. These devices help stabilize the trailer by minimizing side-to-side movement, providing a safer and smoother towing experience.

Reduce Speed: It’s essential to maintain a safe and moderate speed while towing. Higher speeds can exacerbate sway, which makes it more difficult to control the trailer.

Proper Hitch Techniques: The Foundation of Safe Towing

A secure hitch connection is fundamental to towing safety. Improper hitching can lead to accidents, and may cause the trailer to disconnect from the tow vehicle. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and reliable hitch connection:

Match the Hitch: Choose a hitch that matches the weight rating of your trailer and vehicle. The hitch class and capacity should be adequate for the loaded weight of your trailer.

Double Check Connections: Before you hit the road, double-check all hitch connections. Ensure that the coupler is correctly attached to the ball mount, safety chains are crossed and secured, and all electrical connections (lights, brakes) are functioning correctly.

Consider a Trailer Brake Controller: a trailer brake controller is indispensable when towing heavy trailers. It synchronizes the trailer brakes with the tow vehicle’s brakes. This provides smoother and more controlled stops, which reduces wear on the vehicle’s brakes, and prevents trailer sway.

Routine Safety Checks: Prioritize Preventative Maintenance

Safely towing a trailer isn’t just about the initial setup; it’s an ongoing process that requires regular maintenance and checks. Neglecting routine safety inspections can lead to mechanical failures or hazards on the road. Here are some safety checks you should perform before each trip:

Tire Inspection: Check the tire pressure and condition of both the tow vehicle and trailer tires. Ensure they are properly inflated and free from any signs of wear, such as cracks or bulges.

Brake Inspection: Verify that the trailer’s brakes are working correctly. If your trailer has electric brakes, test the brake controller’s functionality, and adjust the gain appropriately.

Lights and Signals: Ensure that all lights and signals on the tow vehicle and the trailer are in working order. This includes taillights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights.

Secure the Cargo: Double-check that all cargo inside the trailer is adequately secured. Loose items can shift during transit. This affects the trailer’s stability and could cause an accident.

Trailer Brake Controllers: The Braking Safety Mechanism

One of the most critical components for safely towing a trailer is a trailer brake controller. This device works in conjunction with the tow vehicle’s braking system and the trailer’s brakes to ensure a synchronized and smooth stopping process.

Enhanced Braking Performance: A trailer brake controller allows the trailer’s brakes to engage simultaneously with the tow vehicle’s brakes. This balanced braking reduces the risk of jackknifing and trailer sway during emergency stops.

Reduced Wear on the Tow Vehicle: By distributing the braking force to the trailer, the tow vehicle’s brakes experience less strain. This can increase their longevity and reduce maintenance costs.

Improved Handling and Control: Trailer brake controllers, naturally, provide more control over braking. This allows for more stability during downhill descents and challenging road conditions.

Legal Requirement: In many regions, using a trailer brake controller is a legal requirement, especially for trailers exceeding certain weight limits. Complying with the law ensures your safety and that of others.

You can find trailer parts for sale in-store, like trailer brakes and brake controllers, at one of our Illinois trailer dealership locations. If you need assistance with trailer repair, service or maintenance, Country Blacksmith can help! Call us or contact us online to schedule a service appointment.

When it comes to safely towing a trailer, adhering to proper safety practices is non-negotiable. Understanding trailer sway prevention, hitching techniques, routine safety checks, and the role of a trailer brake controller are essential aspects of responsible trailering. Always prioritize safety over convenience and remember that a well-maintained and properly equipped trailer ensures a smoother and safer journey. By following these guidelines, you can confidently embark on your next adventure and know that you’ve taken every precaution to protect yourself, your passengers, and fellow road users from potential towing hazards.

Ready for a new trailer? Browse new and used trailers for sale in Illinois on our website! We have two convenient locations in Mount Vernon and Carterville. Our experienced team is ready to help you find the perfect trailer for the job!

Trailer Maintenance to Extend the Life of Your Trailer

Essential Trailer Maintenance Tips

Whether you use a trailer for work or recreational purposes, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity and reliability. By implementing regular trailer maintenance routines, you can extend the life of your trailer and enjoy its optimal performance for years to come. These trailer maintenance tips and best practices to help you keep your trailer in top condition for years to come.

Clean and Protect the Exterior

One of the fundamental aspects of trailer maintenance is keeping the exterior clean and well-protected. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that:

Regular Washes: Regularly washing your trailer helps remove dirt, grime, and road salt that can accumulate over time and cause corrosion. Use a mild detergent and a soft brush or sponge to clean the exterior thoroughly.

Waxing: Applying a coat of wax after washing can help protect the trailer’s paint and metal surfaces from the elements. Waxing also gives the trailer a shiny and polished appearance.

Rust Prevention: Inspect the trailer for any signs of rust or corrosion. If you notice any areas that need attention, treat them with a rust inhibitor or primer to prevent further damage.

Lubrication: Regularly lubricate hinges, locks, and moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

Inspect Tires and Brakes

The condition of your trailer’s tires and brakes is crucial for safe and efficient towing. Follow these trailer maintenance tips to ensure that your tires and brakes stay in great shape:

Tire Pressure and Tread: Check tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Inspect the tread depth and replace tires that show signs of excessive wear. Properly inflated tires with good tread improve fuel efficiency and enhance stability while towing.

Wheel Bearing Maintenance: Grease the wheel bearings as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. This will ensure smooth wheel rotation and prevent excessive heat buildup that can lead to bearing failure.

Brake System Inspection: Regularly inspect the brake system, including brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels. Replace worn-out brake pads and have the brake system serviced by a professional if needed.

Maintain Electrical Systems

The electrical systems in your trailer play a vital role in ensuring proper lighting, signaling, and power supply. Here’s what you can do to keep them in optimal condition:

Lighting Checks: Inspect all trailer lights regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs immediately. Clean the connections and ensure a secure electrical connection between the trailer and towing vehicle.

Battery Maintenance: If your trailer has a battery, check its condition and charge it regularly. Keep the battery terminals clean and free from corrosion.

Wiring Inspections: Routinely inspect the trailer’s wiring harness for any signs of damage or fraying. Replace or repair any faulty wiring to prevent electrical issues and potential hazards.

Safety and General Maintenance Tips

Apart from the specific areas already mentioned, here are a few additional tips for ongoing trailer maintenance:

Hitch Maintenance: Regularly inspect the hitch and coupler for signs of wear or damage. Lubricate the moving parts to ensure smooth and secure operation.

Regular Inspections: Perform a thorough inspection of your trailer at least once a year. Look for any signs of structural damage, loose bolts, or other issues that may compromise the trailer’s integrity.

Proper Storage: When your trailer is not in use, store it in a clean and dry environment to prevent rust and deterioration. Consider using a trailer cover to provide additional protection.

Taking care of your trailer through regular trailer maintenance practices is key to extending its lifespan and ensuring safe towing experiences. By following these tips, like cleaning and protecting the exterior, inspecting tires and brakes, and maintaining electrical systems, you can keep your trailer in top condition for many years to come. Remember, a well-maintained trailer saves you money on repairs and provides peace of mind while on the road.

For high-quality trailers and expert advice on trailer maintenance, be sure to check out Country Blacksmith Trailer Sales. We offer a wide range of trailers and accessories to suit your needs. You can shop our new and used trailers for sale at any time on our website! We can also help with any trailer maintenance, service and trailer repair at our service department. Happy towing!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is intended for general guidance only. Please refer to your trailer’s manufacturer guidelines and consult with a professional for specific trailer maintenance instructions.

How to Perform a Home Trailer Inspection

Both business owners and recreational trailer owners should complete an annual home trailer inspection to ensure their trailer is up to snuff. Just like trucks and other tools, trailers face wear and tear over time that may cause trailer safety and reliability issues. The official inspection requirements vary by state, but there are a few parts of your trailer that everyone should check – regardless of state regulations.

You can find more information on Illinois truck and trailer requirements and inspections on the Illinois Department of Transportation’s website.

Conduct an At-Home Trailer Inspection

Hitch and Coupler

The trailer hitch mounts and ball will likely be beat up after about a year of use. During a routine home trailer inspection, you should check to make sure the frame mounting bolts are tight and check that there are no cracks. Next, check the trailer coupler to ensure the jaw fits tight over the tow ball and that the safety latch is securely pinned.

Another quick trailer safety check for trailer hitches is the weight restriction. Each ball and hitch has a weight safety regulation. You can find these restrictions on the internet or in an owner’s manual. It’s important to follow these weight restrictions to safely use your trailer. At both of our Illinois trailer dealerships, you can find trailer parts for sale in store.

Lighting and Wiring

The first step of a lighting and wiring check is simple. Test the brake lights and turn signal to make sure they work. Next, check the trailer plug. Examine the receptacle and plug to look for any frayed or loose wires. You can bring your trailer into Country Blacksmith Trailers for help with trailer repair and service, like replacements in trailer wiring. If everything looks good, you should still take the time to clean the plugs and wiring.

Additionally, an inspection should include checks on the trailer reflectors. Trailers built after 1968 should have red and amber reflectors on the back and side, depending on the trailer length. You can consult a professional trailer maintenance representative at Country Blacksmith Trailers to be sure your trailer reflectors meet state and federal regulations.

Tires

Tire checks are an essential part of any home trailer inspection. Over-inflated or under-inflated tires wear out more quickly and are more likely to cause accidents. To help your tires last longer, we recommend checking the tire pressure on both the tow vehicle and trailer at least monthly. You can adjust the tire pressure as necessary.

Aside from pressure, you should check the tread on your tires. If they’re worn down, you may need to look into replacements. Finally, double check the lug nuts to ensure they’re tightly secured.

Brakes and Wheel Bearings

The next step to a home trailer inspection is checking the brakes. Brakes are an essential part of trailer safety. Though the tow vehicle brakes will be doing the bulk of the work when braking, the trailer brakes are important for emergency situations.

After you check the brakes, you should check the wheel bearings. Replace or repack them about twice a year.

Springs and Axles

Aside from the hitch and ball, the trailer’s springs and axles will take the most abuse. During a routine home trailer inspection, examine the springs and axle(s) for damage, and let Country Blacksmith Trailers repair or replace them as needed. Bent or misaligned axles will easily further damage your trailer and can lead to safety hazards on the road. Finally, check the mounting bolts for proper tightness.

Plates

The final step of a routine trailer inspection is checking the license plate. The plate on your trailer should be hung horizontally and be easy to see, even when your trailer is full. Make sure the plate is tightly fastened and illuminated, especially at night.

Once all of these steps are completed, your trailer inspection is over. Although, we do recommend bringing your trailer in for an expert inspection at Country Blacksmith Trailers. Our staff has experience with trailer safety, inspection and repair. The trailer service team can help with everything from trailer wiring to hitch installation. We’re also familiar with Illinois trailer regulations, so we can make sure your trailer follows state and federal laws. Contact us online today to schedule your trailer service or inspection!

Can You Park a Trailer on the Street?

Just like cars, trailers are vehicles that must follow parking rules when traveling from place to place. Because trailers are considered commercial property, it’s harder to find a spot to park a trailer. What is even more challenging is that parking rules can change from city to city. If you are unsure about where you plan to park your personal or work trailer when on the road, consult with that city’s laws by searching for “parking laws” in that location or calling the county clerk’s office, or city hall.

Where NOT to Park a Trailer

In most cases, in the city or a subdivision, these rules may apply when you park a utility, dump, enclosed or cargo trailer. To prevent problems, these rules are a good baseline to keep you on the right side of the law when parking your trailer at home or around town.

Where You CANNOT Park a Trailer

You cannot park a trailer on the street, alley, city parking lot or public right-of-way attached or unattached for more than 24 hours, and it could be towed after 48 hours.
Your trailer cannot be parked in front of your house or in your front yard.
A trailer cannot be parked on private property long term without permission.
You cannot park your trailer where it blocks a neighbor’s driveway.

Where You CAN Park a Trailer

Along the side of or behind your home.
In a self-contained garage on your property.
A self-storage facility or any private lot that allows rentals for your trailers.
In your driveway, if it’s not a violation of housing association rules.
On the street directly in front of your home. However, your trailer must be attached to a motor vehicle and cannot sit for more than 24-72 hours (depending on local laws).

BONUS: Tips When Storing Your Trailer

Remove Break Batteries – If your trailer has a braking system that uses batteries, then it’s important to remove those batteries if your trailer will be sitting long term. Left in place, batteries will wear faster and drain the power. Just like regular batteries, they work best if stored inside where conditions are more stable.
Jack Your Trailer Up – Ensure that the trailer rests suspended on jacks. This preserves the tires and suspension by keeping weight off these parts. Tires can even be removed and stored in a safe place, which not only protects the tires from rotting, but also deters thieves from trying to roll off with your trailer.
Grease Moving Parts – Greasing all the moving parts helps protect your trailer and allows things to continue to slide smoothly. This includes wheel bearings, especially if you don’t remove your trailer tires in storage.
Get a Cover – If you store your trailer outside, a trailer cover can do wonders to keep water and moisture out of your trailer and its components. Wood rots and steel rusts, but a good waterproof cover or tarp securely wrapped around your trailer will prevent a lot of that from happening. It will keep your trailer clean and pristine as well!
Buy a Security System – Trailer theft can happen to anyone, especially if the trailer is stored outside. Get a hefty security lock for the hitch and keep any trailer doors locked. If you have an open-air trailer, use heavy straps and locks to tie down any loose valuable items or materials. The more difficult you make it for someone to take your trailer and cargo, the less likely it is that a thief will mess with it.

How to Report Illegal Parking

If you are the victim of a neighbor or business intruding on your property, you can also report illegal trailer parking by contacting parking enforcement authorities. You can read more details about how to call in or file an official complaint on illegal parking in this article: “How to Report Illegal Parking.”

Should You Park a Trailer on the Street?

Parking and storing your trailer when the job is done is not always an easy task. Fortunately, alternatives exist so you don’t always have to park in the street. It’s good to be mindful of your neighbors and through traffic, which keeps you and your trailer safe and free of violations. So, if you want to be sure, don’t park your trailer on the street longer than a day.

At Country Blacksmith Trailers, we are a premiere trailer dealer in Illinois with locations in Mount Vernon and Carterville. When it comes to trailers, we have everything you’ll need. We offer new and used trailers for sale, from top brands like Aluma, Diamond C, Homesteader, Top Hat and more! We also have a variety of pickup flatbeds from Bradford Built, Cadet and CM Truck Beds. We also have trailers for rent in Illinois and offer a rent-to-own program. Browse our inventory online or contact us today!

The Total Package on Tow Packages!

Pickup trucks and SUVs are made to be more like workhorses than cars or vans. So, with this power, is a towing package necessary to tow trailer? Though you may have big tires and a hitch, it doesn’t mean you’re ready to drag five tons of boulders behind you. If you plan to use your vehicle primarily for heavy-duty trailers or commercial work, installing a factory or aftermarket tow package is a must!

What is a Tow Package?

A tow package is the upgraded features needed for your tow vehicle to pull a trailer reliably and safely. It’s not just the hitch alone. They can include supporting engine parts, improved cooling systems, strengthened suspension and more! If you’re planning on using your truck or SUV to tow trailer, then a towing package is beneficial. It gives your vehicle better handling when you pull heavier loads, and it reduces the wear and tear on the vehicle overall.

Towing Packages May Include:

Trailer Hitch & Assembly
Wiring for 4-Pin and 7-Pin trailers
Extended Towing Mirrors
Enhanced Coolant System
Stronger Axles (Reduced Rear Axle Gear Ratio)
Heavy-duty Brakes and Suspension
Larger Battery and Alternator
Towing Brake Controls on Dashboard
Trailer Backup Cameras

Does a Tow Package Increase Towing Capacity?

Even though the correct set of towing elements can enhance your towing, it’s possible to install parts that are rated beyond your vehicle’s factory limitations. Your vehicle is what sets the maximum bar on towing capacity and the towing elements cannot override that.

What a Tow Package Doesn’t Do:

Increase Vehicle’s GVWR
Increase Vehicle’s Payload Capacity
Increase Vehicles Maximum Towing Capacity

How Do You Know If Your Vehicle Has a Tow Package Installed?

If you don’t see a trailer hitch or receiver on your rear bumper, that is a good sign you don’t have a towing package. However, what does a towing package look like? A hitch and wiring doesn’t give any clues to what else is installed for towing. This is especially difficult to know for sure if you bought or your vehicle used. Sure, there are other hints like dashboard trailer controls, however, your best bet is contacting the dealer or manufacturer. Beyond that, answering this can take a little research.

To start your investigation, check what available towing options exist for your vehicle. This can be found by checking brochures specific for your exact model. These brochures will list tow package options available on your model.

Some packages could be simple like the hitch, wiring and connectors. Others may have extra components included. When you buy preowned, you can use this research along with looking up the vehicles VIN history to know what (if anything) has been modified. Maybe a previous owner installed improved parts or upgraded the hitch. Whether you are buying used or new, check to make sure the invoice matches what comes up on the window sticker.

Can You Add a Tow Package If You Don’t Have One?

There is no need to worry if your vehicle doesn’t have a tow package. You can easily call your local dealership to get the part numbers for your exact model. You can also get a quote for everything you’d like to have installed. However, you may prefer to do some or all of the work yourself.

If this is the case, you can do the research to find and order the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or the equivalent. A complete list of heavy-duty towing upgrades will include things like larger brakes, auxiliary transmission cooler, and upgraded rear shocks or springs. You may also want to purchase a “full-size” spare tire, instead of the regular spare most vehicles come with.

Are Factory Tow Packages Better than Aftermarket?

The factory tow package is composed of OEM tow parts designed to match your vehicle exactly. This makes factory installations safe and reliable. Conversely, aftermarket tow packages can vary in quality depending on the brand. Additionally, aftermarket installations may be limited to what some refer to as “trailer package.” A trailer package is simply a tow hitch and electrical wiring for trailer lights. However, this doesn’t always mean factory installs are best.

If you are looking to tow lighter loads, like a couple of jet skis, on a trailer, then an aftermarket install would suffice. Although factory tow packages are more comprehensive, they are generally more expensive. Additionally, factory installs handle poorly and lose fuel efficiency when dealing with lighter loads. So go with factory pre-installed towing options when you plan to pull boats, large campers, or livestock trailers. You may want to make sure it includes heavy-duty shocks, stronger brakes, a transmission cooler, upgraded battery and a quality tow hitch.

How Much is Too Much?

Depending on your vehicle, you may not need the highest-rated towing parts. For example, if your truck’s maximum towing capacity is 10,000 pounds, then you would only need a good class 3 hitch instead of a class 5 trailer hitch. And if you are planning towing with a gooseneck hitch, know your truck’s max payload capacity so you don’t overload your wheels and rear axle. Although it takes a little effort to reference your manufacturer’s weight limits, it pays to respect these numbers. Literally! It can save you money to know when you are going overboard.

At Country Blacksmith Trailers, we know trailers and towing! Between our two trailer dealerships in Illinois, we have hundreds of trailers for sale, from top brands like Aluma, Homesteader, Top Hat and more! We also specialize in selling and installing pickup flatbeds and service bodies from Bradford Built, Knapheide, Cadet, and CM Truck Beds. Whether you are looking to purchase a trailer or towing and trailer parts, let our friendly team of experts assist you today!

Trailer Hitches: What You Should Know

When it comes to towing a trailer, one of the most important things needed is a hitch. Without it, of course, you can’t haul a trailer. Having the proper trailer hitch is crucial. This includes the correct type, strength, and hitch ball size. There are a lot of great hitches out there that can do the job, however. We’ll dive into the types of hitches and important features of each.

What is a Trailer Hitch?

A trailer hitch or tow bar is an accessory that attaches to your vehicle’s frame or chassis to allow the safe connection and towing of a trailer behind a vehicle. The only part of the hitch that may be visibly seen is the square shaped receiver tube, which the ball mount slides into. It is common to see the ball mount and trailer ball collectively referred to as a hitch as well.

Bumper Pull vs. Gooseneck Trailer Hitches

Bumper Pull Hitches

Bumper pull hitches are easier to hook up, and can be used with any vehicle. They’re ideal for first-time trailer buyers and those with pickups who desire truck beds clear of the gooseneck hardware. An open truck bed without the gooseneck hitch and trailer tongue increases your payload capacity without going over your GVWR. However, bumper pull hitches have limitations on the weight and size of the trailers and cargo they can haul. Additionally, there is more trailer sway with bumper pull hitches if they are not hooked up properly or if cargo is unbalanced. Lastly, there is a limited turning radius with bumper towing, so turns must be wider around corners.

Gooseneck Hitches

Gooseneck hitches provide amazing stability because the weight is placed over the rear axles of the truck compared to the bumper. This also gives gooseneck hitches the ability to tow larger trailers and heavier cargo. Additional benefits include improved maneuverability and a tighter turn radius. This means turns can be sharper than a bumper pull. The main disadvantages with pulling longer and heavier trailers with goosenecks is that you need a heavy-duty truck. You may also need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). However, CDLs depend on the length of the trailer and the state you’re are driving in.

What is the Strongest Trailer Hitch?

Overall, trailer hitch strength breaks down into 5 classes. Gross Tow Weight (GTW) increments from 2,000 pounds all the way to 20,000 pounds. However, even if a hitch is in a particular class, it could be rated differently depending on the model and manufacturer.

Class 1 Trailer Hitch (GTW up to 2,000 lbs. / 1.25” Receiver Tube)
This class is for light duty work, and you’ll find it on most compact and midsized cars.
Class 2 Trailer Hitch (GTW up to 3,500 lbs. / 1.25” Receiver Tube)
This hitch is for moderate use and can be found on cars, crossovers, and minivans.
Class 3 Trailer Hitch (GTW up to 8,000 to 12,000 lbs. / 2” Receiver Tube)
Most commonly installed on pickup trucks and SUVs, this hitch is strong and versatile.
Class 4 Trailer Hitch (GTW up to 12,000 to 14,000 lbs. / 2” Receiver Tube)
This class is more for full-sized and heavy-duty pickup trucks towing larger trailers and heavier loads.
Class 5 Trailer Hitch (GTW up to 16,000 to 20,000 lbs. / 2” or 2.5” Receiver Tube)
You’ll find these installed on heavy-duty pickups or truck flatbeds for commercial or heavy-duty work.

Trailer Hitch Safety Checks and Maintenance Tips

Use the Correct Ball Size

Most towing jobs can be done by between a 1 7/8-inch, 2 inch or 2 5/16-inch sized trailer ball (or hitch ball). However, the diameter of your ball must match your trailer’s coupler opening size. You can use a ruler or measuring tape to determine the opening size on the coupler’s head. If it measures 2 inches, your hitch ball must be 2 inches. Having the exact fit is necessary for both safety and usability.

Cross Safety Chains

A common mistake is connecting the safety chains straight across instead of crossing them. Chains should be loose enough for turns and cross over each other in an “X” shape under the trailer coupler. If the trailer should ever disconnect on the road, the crisscrossed chains will catch the trailer tongue like a safety net. Otherwise, the trailer tongue would drop directly to the ground, digging into the road. This could cause considerable damage to your vehicles and put your safety at risk.

Use Ball Grease

Hitch balls receive a lot of friction from the trailer’s coupler sliding around it as it’s pulled. Greasing your hitch ball will help extend the life of it, reducing scratches and pitting. Even though the coating painted on some hitch balls looks great, it alone is no replacement for a little bit of grease.

Check Electrical Components

When you pull a trailer, always ensure your wiring harness connects and powers it’s components like lights and brakes. This is especially important when driving at night and visibility is limited. You may not always see burnt out taillights or brake lights when on the road, so always test them out before taking off.

Respect Weight Limits

When you buy hitches and accessories, ensure they are rated for the weight of your trailer and the cargo you intend to pull. In addition, make sure your cargo load is balanced properly. Too much weight in the back will lighten the tongue weight, and your vehicle to fishtail more when changing lanes. Too much weight on the front will put undue stress on the hitch and tow vehicle, which can cause excess wear and damage.

Lock-Mounted Trailer

Once your trailer coupler is connected to the hitch ball, it’s never a bad idea to add a security lock to keep anyone from stealing your trailer and potential cargo. Vehicle and trailer theft is common in the United States, happening once every 40 seconds in 2017. A formidable lock is a small price to pay to deter thieves and keep your trailer in your possession.

If you’re looking for the best trailer hitches, quality parts or accessories, Country Blacksmith Trailers has what you need. Our expert staff members can answer any question and check if the trailer parts you’re looking for are in stock. In addition, we carry hundreds of new and used trailers for sale at our two trailer dealerships in Illinois. Contact Country Blacksmith Trailers and let us serve you today!

How To Back a Trailer Like a Pro

You finally just purchased, rented, or borrowed a trailer or RV that you are planning to pull with your vehicle. You’re hitched up and ready to go, however, you realize that backing up is not as straight forward as, well, moving forward. To back a trailer into a parking spot or around a corner can be tricky at first, but with lots of practice, it can become an easy task.

Preparing To Back a Trailer

Practice:

As with anything new, practice makes perfect. Hitch your trailer to your vehicle and drive out to an empty parking lot. Give yourself plenty of room so you can get a feel for your trailer’s responsiveness. Smaller trailers are more responsive and adjust quickly to the motions of the tow vehicle, which make them more difficult than larger trailers to maneuver in reverse. Bigger trailers respond slower to the turning of the tow vehicle, which makes it easier to accommodate mistakes when backing the trailer up.

Be Mindful of Surroundings:

When hitched up, a trailer becomes an extension of your vehicle, and you have to be aware of both your vehicle and trailer’s position at all times. To give yourself better visual, adjust your mirrors so you can clearly see the rear of the trailer. If possible, have a spotter be eyes in your blind spots. These precautions will keep you from hitting obstacles that could be easily missed like low hanging tree branches, holes, or fences.

Take It Slow:

If you go off path or jackknife the vehicle and trailer, just pull forward as far as you need to straighten up the angle of the trailer and try again. And if you need to get out of your vehicle to get a better visual of what is going on behind the trailer, do it! The important thing is that you park the trailer in the right spot without causing damage. Be aware that bumps and holes may also push your trailer in an unexpected direction. Reversing uphill will require a little extra gas on the pedal as well, due to gravity, but the methods of turning the steering wheel stay the same.

How to Steer a Trailer in Reverse

Looking Out the Window:

When you back a trailer into place and you are looking out the window toward the trailer, keep one hand on the steering wheel and just turn the wheel in the direction you want the back of the trailer to go.

Using Rearview Mirror:

When you are moving forward, you turn your wheel to the right (clockwise) and both the vehicle and the trailer turn right. Turning the wheel left (counterclockwise) will turn both the vehicle and trailer left. When you back a trailer using your mirrors, you must think backwards when turning the wheel of your vehicle. Spinning the steering wheel right, will cause the back of the trailer to move left and spinning the steering wheel left will cause the back of the trailer to move right. Another way to replicate the correct motion of the steering wheel when looking forward at your mirrors is to keep one hand on the bottom of the wheel, as the bottom of the steering wheel directs the movement of the trailer.

Reversing A Trailer Around a Corner

Step 1:

Pull straight past (overshoot) your spot or lane that you need to back into and line the rear of the trailer right past the entrance. Stop, roll your window down and put your 4-way flashers on. Turn your steering wheel to the left (counterclockwise) so that your vehicle’s front tires are fully tilted to the left.

Step 2:

Begin reversing your vehicle and backing the trailer to get your turning angle. Once it looks like the trailer has the correct turn radius, start spinning your steering wheel slowly the opposite way to the right (clockwise) to accommodate the direction and ensure the angle of the trailer doesn’t get too tight. Keep straightening out your vehicle while avoiding hitting anything as you move.

Step 3:

Keep moving back and making slight adjustments until you fully straighten out and are in your spot or lane. Most movement shouldn’t be more than a quarter turn of the wheel. You can pull forward as needed to avoid the angle between the trailer and vehicle getting too tight. Just keep an eye on your surroundings as you move in each direction.

Now that you are equipped with the knowledge on how to back a trailer like a pro, check out our inventory of new and used trailers. At Country Blacksmith Trailers, we have enclosed cargo, utility, dump, livestock, tilt deck trailers and more! We also do trailer customizations to help you get exactly what you need from your trailer. Let us help you with your trailer and accessory needs for whatever job you need to complete. Fill out this contact form to get started!