TOWING WORLD-Towing Safety

Basic system*

• Quality tow bar - manufactured to ensure stability and strength.
• Custom baseplate or bracket kit - safe point of attachment for tow bar.
• Safety chains or cables - extra security in case of unlikely brake away.
• Light kit - lights, turn signals, and brakes on towed vehicle to prevent accidents.

Additional Add-ons for safety

• Locking pins to prevent theft
• Braking system to assist motorhome brakes
• Brake away system in case of unlikely brake away

Other towing safety

• Always read owners manual thoroughly
• Seek manufacturers advise if questions arise
• Never let anyone ride in a towed vehicle
• Do not exceed tow bar or hitch weight rating of 5,000lbs
• Safety checks before each trip
• Proper maintenance of all equipment
• Keep spare parts on hand (pins, clips, etc)

Before Hooking Up

1. Inspect the tow bar and baseplate for loose bolts and worn parts.
2. Tighten loose bolts and replace worn parts before hooking up.
3. If you have bolts which are consistently coming loose, use Loctite or put on a double nut to keep them tight.

During Hook-up

1. Hook-up on flat smooth surface.
2. If you have a coupler type tow bar, check the fit of the coupler on the ball. Adjust the coupler if necessary.
3. Hook up the tow bar.
4. Set up the towed vehicle's steering and transmission to tow.
5. Latch the legs on a self aligning tow bar.
6. Attach the safety cables. Cross the cables between the vehicles and wrap the cables around the tow bar legs to keep them from dragging.
7. Attach the electrical cable.
8. Check the function of all the lights on both vehicles.
9. Locate your spare key and lock the towed vehicles doors.

While You Are Towing

1. Each time you stop, check the tow bar, baseplate, and cables to make sure they are still properly attached.
2. Check the tires of the towed vehicle to make sure they aren't going flat.
3. While You Are Towing Each day before you start check the lights to make sure they are working properly.

Between Trips

1. Clean the tow bar and cables to keep them in good shape.
2. Clean and lubricate the tow bar as recommended by the manufacturer's instructions.

Periodically

1. Always be aware of the towing laws of the state you are traveling in. Contact local law enforcement if you have inquiries about local and state laws.