You've hooked up the trailer. You're already running late. And you're pretty sure everything is fine.
That's exactly when it's worth taking another two minutes.
A quick walk-around before you tow can catch simple problems before they become much bigger ones down the road.
Here are seven things to check.
1. Check the Coupler
Make sure the trailer coupler is completely seated on the hitch ball and properly latched.
Check that the hitch components are appropriately rated for the trailer and load.
Give everything a visual check before moving.
2. Attach Your Safety Chains
Safety chains are connected from the trailer tongue to the tow vehicle and act as a backup connection if the primary hitch or coupler should fail.
Cross them once under the coupler in an "X" pattern.
Make sure the chains are long enough to allow the vehicle to turn but not so much slack that they drag on the ground.
3. Connect and Check the Breakaway System
If your trailer is equipped with a breakaway system, make sure it's properly connected and in working condition.
The breakaway cable should be attached appropriately to the tow vehicle, not simply forgotten because you're only going a few miles.
4. Check Every Light
Turn on your lights and walk around the trailer.
Check:
- Left turn signal
- Right turn signal
- Brake lights
- Running lights
- Clearance lights where applicable
This takes less than a minute and can reveal wiring or connection problems immediately.
5. Look at Your Tires
Check tire pressure when appropriate and inspect the tires for visible damage, cracking, unusual wear or other problems.
Look at the spare too.
And remember: a trailer tire can look like it has plenty of tread and still be too old or deteriorated for safe use.
6. Secure the Load
Whether you're hauling a tractor, furniture, lumber or landscaping equipment, make sure the load is properly positioned and secured.
Don't rely on weight alone to keep something from moving.
Use appropriately rated straps, chains, binders or other securement equipment for the load you're carrying.
Load placement matters too. Poor weight distribution can negatively affect the way a trailer handles.
7. Do One Final Walk-Around
Before you pull away, walk around the entire trailer once.
Look for:
- Jack fully raised
- Doors and gates secured
- Ramps secured
- Tarp secured
- Loose straps
- Chocks left behind
- Check all grease & oil caps to make sure none are missing. This will ensure no bearings go out while driving.
- Anything hanging or dragging
- Anything that simply doesn't look right
It sounds basic. That's the point.
Two Minutes Is Worth It
Most of these checks take only seconds.
Making them part of your normal towing routine can help you spot problems before you're traveling at highway speed with a loaded trailer behind you.
And if you find something that doesn't look right, don't guess.
Country Boy Trailers can help with trailer inspections, maintenance, brakes, bearings, wiring, axles, welding, tires and repairs at our Cumming and Mableton locations.
Have a trailer question? Bring it by.
Behind You All The Way.
