Towing Questions: Answered

Bigfoot Trailers, known for their rugged, handcrafted builds with GVWRs ranging from 10K to 25K, are designed to handle tough jobs. However, even the most durable flatbed trailer has its limits. Understanding these limits and ensuring your haul is within your trailer’s and tow vehicle’s capacity is critical for a safe and productive towing experience. We’ve answered the most common towing questions in this handy guide to help you decide the loads that get the green light.

Back to Basics: Understanding Weight Ratings

Before hitching up, it’s important to understand these weight ratings:

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum permissible weight of a fully loaded trailer, including the trailer itself and its cargo. Exceeding the GVWR can lead to trailer damage, handling issues, and even accidents.
• Tongue Weight (TW) is the weight the trailer’s tongue exerts on the tow vehicle’s hitch. It’s typically 10-15% of the loaded trailer weight. Too little or too much tongue weight can cause instability and sway.
• Gross Towing Weight Rating (GTWR) is the maximum weight your tow vehicle can safely pull, including the trailer and its payload. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for this crucial information.
• Payload Capacity refers to the maximum weight a trailer can safely haul, including payload and tongue weight.

Common Towing Questions: Answered

1. How do I determine my trailer’s weight capacity? The GVWR is usually printed on a placard on the trailer itself. Knowing this number is vital before loading.
2. How do I calculate tongue weight? The most accurate way is to use a tongue weight scale. Alternatively, you can estimate it by multiplying the loaded trailer weight by 10-15%.
3. What happens if I exceed my trailer’s GVWR? Exceeding your trailer’s weight rating can lead to serious consequences, including damage, tire blowouts, brake failure, and accidents. It can also void your warranty and result in fines. It’s crucial to never exceed your trailer’s GVWR.
4. How do I know if my tow vehicle can pull my desired trailer? Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the GTWR. Ensure the combined weight of your trailer and its load does not exceed this rating. Don’t forget to factor in payload capacity, passengers, and luggage as well.
5. What are some tips for safe trailer loading? Distribute the load evenly within the trailer, placing heavier items over the axles. Secure all items with tie-downs to prevent shifting during transport.
6. What type of hitch do I need? First, assess the weight of your trailer, including any items or vehicles that may be loaded on it. This weight will help determine your hitch class, as they are rated to handle specific weight capacities. Next, evaluate your vehicle’s towing capacity, which is typically outlined in your owner’s manual. This capacity indicates the maximum weight your vehicle can safely tow, and it’s important to ensure that the combined weight of the trailer and its contents do not exceed this limit. Finally, consider the type of hitch that will work best for your specific needs. Options include a receiver hitch, gooseneck hitch, or fifth-wheel hitch, each with its own advantages, depending on the trailer type. Consult your nearest Bigfoot Trailer location for personal assistance.
7. How do I prevent trailer sway? A weight distribution hitch can help reduce sway, especially with heavy-duty trailers. Proper loading and maintaining appropriate tire pressure are also essential.
8. What are some important pre-towing checks? Before each trip, it’s essential to inspect your trailer’s tires, lights, brakes, and hitch connections. Ensure the wiring harness and safety chains are correctly connected and attached. These checks are critical for a safe towing experience.
9. How often should I check the tire pressure? Tire pressure should be checked before every trip, especially when towing. Tires lose pressure over time, and temperature changes can also affect pressure. Always check tire pressure when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
10. Do I need special insurance for towing? You may need additional insurance. Check with your insurance carrier to ensure adequate coverage for your trailer, tow vehicle, and payload.

Remember, safe towing starts with understanding your trailer equipment and respecting weight limits. Following these guidelines and choosing the best trailer for the job can ensure a safer and more productive towing experience.

Built for Every Haul: Bigfoot Trailers Near Me

Bigfoot delivers handcrafted trailers built in the USA. Whether you need an equipment trailer, dump trailer, or car hauler, we have a trailer built for every haul! As a factory-direct manufacturer, we provide service in the entire Eastern United States, with locations in Jonesboro, GA; Durham, NC; Jacksonville, FL; Philadelphia, PA; and by appointment with retailers in Fort Myers and Marianna, FL. Contact us at https://www.bigfoottrailers.net/ to find a location near you.