The steps of trailer towing
Before hitching up your trailer, you should read the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the hitch. All Prolite trailers require a ball two inches in diameter. The following guidelines apply in most cases, but if they are different from those provided by the manufacturer of the hitch, use them and ignore the following information:
- Place blocks behind the wheels of the trailer.
- Crank the jack to an appropriate level so that the ball of the tow vehicle can pass below the hitch.
- Back the tow vehicle until the tow ball is under the hitch and set the parking brakes.
- The hitch ball handle must be opened completely and then you lower the trailer with the jack until the ball is properly inserted into the cradle. Close the latch of the hitch and secure with the locking device.
- Lift the tow vehicle and trailer with the jack high enough to allow room to install the torsion bars, if applicable.
- Set the torsion bars according to the manufacturer's instructions, if applicable.
- After attaching the torsion bars, raise the jack to the drawbar at its highest level. The trailer must be level. Having the front lower than the rear of the trailer reduces the stability of the axles.
- Install sway bars according to manufacturer's instructions, if applicable.
- Attach all safety chains as they are of great importance to protect your trailer and the lives of others. As a trailer owner, it is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with these devices and their proper use. The hitch for your tow vehicle must be equipped with two eyelets for attaching chains at each side of the centerline of the vehicle. Install the chains by threading through each eye. Adjust chain length, so they are as short as possible but still allow some movement without being too tight. Both chains should be the same length and cross under the tongue while being off the ground if the trailer comes off accidentally.
- Hook up the breakaway emergency cable to the tow vehicle.
- Connect the 7 pronged electrical connector to the plug on the tow vehicle.
- Check the turn signals, brake lights and 4 way emergency lights before setting out on a trip.
- Remove and store the blocks behind the tires.
Always double check your towing system when you return from shopping centers or other places where you left your trailer unattended.
