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Towing Your Trailer
Driving dynamics change considerably when towing a trailer. Many facets of driving need to be modified when
towing for your safety and that of other road users.
Important points you must know, understand, and adhere to are:
• Do not exceed the manufacturer maximum capacities for the tow vehicle or trailer.
• Do not exceed the manufacturer capacity on hitch (770lbs for Cruisemaster DO35)
• Do not exceed the maximum Tongue weight allowance of the tow vehicle or trailer (whichever is lowest)
Speed and Road Conditions
• Never exceed the recommended or allowed towing speed in the state you’re travelling. Recommended
and maximum speeds may vary from state to state.
• Greater speed can lead to instability when towing. Always tow at a safe speed for the conditions you’re
driving.
• When towing, always allow greater safe distance for braking.
• Windy conditions and wind buffeting from other vehicles may affect the behavior of your vehicle and
trailer possibly causing sway. Always keep this in consideration and modify your driving accordingly.
• Testing road and environments may cause fatigue. Ensure adequate rest and regular breaks when towing.
WARNING – Excessive speed, sudden steering input, bad road conditions and fatigue may lead to a loss of
control causing death or serious injury. Ensure driving behavior is modified to suit conditions and take regular
breaks.
Trailer Sway
Incorrect loading, incorrect tire pressures and setup can affect how a trailer responds when towed. If you
encounter trailer sway, you should do the following.
• Reduce speed using only the trailer brakes via the manual control on your brake controller.
• Find a safe place to pull over.
• Check hitch connection.
• Check tire pressures.
• Check wheel nuts
• Move heavier cargo towards the front of the trailer.
Once checked and rectified proceed with caution while testing the outcome.
Fatigue
Towing a trailer can be tiring and regular breaks should be taken. Overlanding with a trailer can be even more
tiring and requires more frequent breaks when driving off road. When taking regular breaks, use the opportunity
to check your vehicle and trailer hitch and take general look over the trailer, to ensure everything is as per
normal.
Daily Checks
On extended travel over a period of days or longer, some regular checks should be done to ensure reliable and
safe towing. The below list identifies common items that should be done each day before travelling.
• Check wheel nut torque using a torque wrench to correct torque setting.
• Check hitch connection and operation.
• Inspect tires for damage and inflation.
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