Instructions for the Trailer Transport of a Vehicle
- 1). Select the proper towing trailer based on the ability of your hauling vehicle. The combined weight of the vehicle you are towing and the towing trailer should not equal more than 80 percent of the weight of your hauling vehicle. If using a rented moving truck, follow the guidelines listed in your rental agreement for choosing a trailer.
- 2). Refer to the owner's manual and follow any specific instructions for your towing vehicle before attaching the auto trailer.
- 3). Calculate the weight that is allowed in your tow or hauling vehicle by obtaining the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) from the label most commonly found on the inside of the driver's side door and subtracting the empty or curb weight. Contact your rental agency to find out the curb weight of your vehicle. Subtract 750 pounds from that number to account for the trailer tongue weight and the answer is how much weight you can put inside the hauling vehicle, including driver and passengers. Do not exceed this number.
- 4). Set tire pressures to the proper limits as indicate by the owner or renter's manual, but do not exceed the recommended amount for your vehicle.
- 5). Attach the trailer to your hauling vehicle by lowering the coupler over the hitch ball until the hitch ball is completely covered. Tighten the coupler by pushing down on the latch and turning the hand wheel clockwise. Proper tightening should take about 10 revolutions.
- 6). Attach safety chains by their S hooks to the trailer and towing vehicle by crossing them underneath the hitch and attaching them to the tow vehicle's permanent hitch, frame or bumper brackets. Leave some slack to allow for turning. Secure the S hooks with rubber retainers.
- 7). Attach the emergency brake chain as close to the center of the tow vehicle on the frame, permanent hitch or bumper brackets and twist it to get rid of extra slack. In the event the trailer comes loose, this chain applies brakes automatically. Secure the S hooks with rubber retainers.
- 8). Obtain the recommended lighting connectors based on your user's manual and attach them to the vehicle and trailer, following the instructions in the manual. Make sure to leave some slack to allow for turning, but do not let them drag on the road.
- 9). Empty the vehicle to be towed of all cargo and load the trailer with your vehicle engine end first so that the front of the car is facing the back of your towing vehicle.
- 10
Secure the vehicle to the trailer, following the instructions in the renter's manual, making sure to secure all straps and chains. If the trailer has a track for the vehicle tires, make sure the tires are securely within the indentations before tightening the vehicle down.
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