A truck hitch makes it easy to haul heavy loads and transport over-sized items that can’t fit in the cab. If you haven’t used this accessory before, you’ll want to be cautious to avoid common mistakes and accidents. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you safely load a trailer and drive with a truck hitch.

Do:

Know the limits.

Every vehicle has a maximum weight that should never be exceeded, and doing so will slow brake response or permanently damage the suspension and drivetrain. Check the owner’s manual to determine your vehicle’s towing capacity and make sure your load doesn’t exceed the advised limit. Additionally, the total weight of your load shouldn’t be greater than what your hitch can carry. The hitch’s capacity is usually located on the accessory.

Practice driving.

Before you load, take time to practice driving with the hitch and trailer. The added length might be challenging to maneuver, so find a parking lot or open space to practice turning and reversing with the trailer attached. Once loaded, you’ll need to drive slower than you normally do to accommodate the cargo’s weight.

Don’t:

Distribute weight unevenly.

To keep the trailer aligned with your vehicle, place at least 60% of the packed weight on the front end of the surface. This will prevent the trailer from fishtailing, which could lead your vehicle off the road or cause the cargo to swing toward nearby cars. Additionally, the total weight must be evenly distributed between the left and right sides to minimize wobbling.

Slam on the brakes.

There’ll be a significant amount of added weight directly behind your vehicle, so adjust your braking habits accordingly. The trailer’s weight can behave erratically if you come to a sudden stop, causing your vehicle to jackknife or skid. Slow your speed to decrease the chances that you’ll need to slam on the brakes.

If you need a hitch and trailer for your truck, contact the helpful team at Hawaii Campers in Hilo. Since 1978, these professionals have provided Big Island drivers with a wide variety of vehicle accessories, including rain guards, floor mats, seat covers, and performance tires. View their inventory online, or call (808) 935-8349 to inquire about their free statewide shipping.