Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Important Information About Towing Service Companies

By Mark Lee


Towing is an easy exercise if one has the right equipment and understands what needs to be done. The process can also be hard, especially to people who lack the technical expertise for the job. That is why it would be advisable to hire a towing service to help with the process if one is not aware of what should be done. This article presents some basic but useful information concerning the process of towing.

Equipment capacity is one of the most important factors to be kept in mind when engaging in this process. There is a maximum capacity for all components employed in the hauling process. The value of maximum capacity is often indicated on the specific component for easy visibility. To ensure safety, these values should never be exceeded. Components vary in their maximum capacities and others may have multiple maximum capacities.

The components applied in the hauling activity should have capacities that are higher than the total gross weight of the trailer. Two key capacities that need to be considered are tongue weight capacity and weight capacity. The total weight of trailer that the hitch can support is the maximum weight capacity. Conversely, the maximum weight supported by the hitch when pressing down on it is the maximum tongue weight.

Loading a trailer plays a major role in determining how easily it can be hauled. Loading a trailer adequately helps to remove sway. Sway is often a result of inadequate tongue weight being applied on the hitch. The best way to solve this problem is to load heavy items at the front of the trailer and lighter ones behind. Securing cargo in the trailer also eliminates sliding.

Sway is very dangerous because it can cause loss of control of the vehicle. The driver may experience difficulty negotiating corners and managing the vehicle even on straight courses. When starting to drive, one should start at a low speed and accelerate gradually until maximum speed in achieved. If any form of swaying is noticed, it is recommendable to stop the vehicle and do some adjustments as necessary.

The trailer should be checked to make sure that everything is perfect before the journey is started. For instance, one must ensure that tires are inflated to the required level to support the cargo. Carrying a spare tire can also come in handy when it is least expected. Tools needed for changing tires should also be carried. Instant braking must be avoided at all times.

There is significant increase in length of vehicle when a trailer is added to it. This change in length calls for great care when driving. One should take more time to stop, switch lanes, and overtake other motorists. A wide angle of turn should also be assumed when going around corners. This is necessary because vehicles and trailers tend to move on different paths.

During hauling, the speeds should be kept moderate. Moderate speeds help to save on fuel consumption. When the trailer and vehicle are moved at a high speed, wind resistance is increased while gas mileage is reduced. This places extra strain on both the vehicle and trailer.




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