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Tips for RV Towing
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Tips for RV Towing

If you’ve just purchased a new RV for the summer season, chances are you might be a little concerned about towing that RV. Don’t worry, it’s not as hard as it might seem at first, as long as you take a few precautions.

 

6 Tips for RV Towing

  1. Weight Distribution. Make sure to distribute weight evenly in your RV so that when it’s hitched to your car it’s as level as possible. If too much weight is in the back of the RV unwanted sway can occur. Spread the weight out front to back and side to side. If you have to fill up with water before leaving home, take this into account. Where is your fresh water tank? If it’s towards the rear of the RV, then store as much other stuff as possible towards the front.
  2. Trailer Brakes. Consider trailer brakes, even if your state does not require them. Trailer brakes are especially helpful when traveling down steep mountain roads as they help the trailer to slow down.  You aren’t solely dependent on your vehicle’s brakes to slow it down.
  3. Can you see? Mirror extenders easily attach to your current side mirrors and can provide extra visibility for you when towing a large RV.
  4. More weight means more time. Prepare for more time to get up to speed on the interstate and more time to slow down for red lights, stop signs, turns, etc. Consider this when passing other cars as well. You’ll need extra time to get around other vehicles.
  5. Backing.  If at all possible make sure to have someone assist you when backing your trailer. You’ll want to turn the wheel the direction you want the trailer to go (so, the opposite way from what feels right, honestly). If the trailer needs to go left, you’ll have to turn the wheel to the right. Take small movements at first, so that you’ll be able to easily correct a mistake. It takes time, but you’ll get the hang of it!
  6. Sway. Sway mostly occurs if you’re traveling during windy times, or if a large semi passes you on a downhill.  That too can cause sway.  If you feel the trailer swaying, DO NOT slam on the brakes. This could cause jackknifing. Instead, reduce your speed slowly to help stop the sway.

For more Tips for RV Towing, check out this YouTube Video.