· 7 min read
Hook up deliberately
Confirm the ball size matches the coupler, latch and pin the coupler, cross the safety chains under the tongue so they cradle a dropped coupler, and attach the breakaway cable to the truck, never to the chains.
Secure the load correctly
Use rated straps and chains with working load limits that exceed the requirement, place tie-downs at four corners, and re-check tension after the first few miles when loads settle.
Drive for the combination
Increase following distance, brake earlier, take turns wider, and reduce speed in crosswinds and heavy traffic. Most trailer tires are rated well below highway car tire speeds.
If sway starts
Do not brake hard and do not steer sharply. Ease off the throttle, hold the wheel steady, and apply the trailer brakes manually if your controller allows. Then stop and fix the load balance.