Most caravans, boats, horseboxes and trailers don’t see much action during the year. In fact, it’s often only around holiday time that they are rolled off their patch of grass and hooked up to go – but after standing so long, chances are their wheels are no longer in good shape. Goodyear product manager, Robert Harris, recently issued a list of pre-trip tips that will help you avoid roadside frustration and enjoy a hassle-free, safe journey.

“When horseboxes and trailers stand in one place for an extended period, their tyres will probably develop a ‘fl at spot’ from the prolonged slight pressure. Ideally, one should remove the wheel and tyre and put the trailers on stands while they’re not being used. If it is ‘too late now’, I would strongly advise owners to have their tyres’ condition checked at a reputable service centre,” said Harris.

Tyre care

“Wheel bearings should be checked for corrosion. Tyres need to be checked for cracks and penetrations, and the technician will check that there is still suffi cient tread depth on the tyres. Don’t forget to get the spare tyre checked too!”

Make sure the tyre pressure is correct. This will save on fuel and ensure a safe, comfortable ride. All wheel elements should be tightened and, while you’re at it, make sure you have the relevant jack and wheel spanner for your trailer or caravan. They may require diff erent tools to those of your car tyres.

By law, all trailers require the correct chevron tape to be wrapped all the way around the body for better visibility. Make sure your lights are all working properly and that your licenses are up to date.

Fit to tow?

A safe, enjoyable trip begins with a car and trailer that are properly serviced and ready for the journey. Only choose a car and trailer that are compatible, use the best towing equipment and practice some of the skills that are needed to cope with any situation that might arise. Drivers need to be aware that driving a car and heavy trailer combination requires practice and skill. A well-prepared driver, car and trailer are a precondition for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Tyre health

Tyres should be checked for minimum tread depth, flat spots, uneven wear, impact fractures as a result of perhaps hitting a pothole and objects caught in the tread pattern.

Tyres should be suited to the maximum weight of the trailer as well as the maximum permitted travelling speed. When buying new tyres, look for C-rated (Cargo) or XL-rated (Extra Load) tyres, to add some reserve to its load capacity. Inflate the tyres according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Properly inflated tyres provide best handling performance, and help you save fuel. Before setting off use a towing checklist to ensure the caravan is fi t to travel and you haven’t forgotten anything.

Is everything connected and working properly? Pay close attention to the lights, brakes, tyres and hitches.

Expect the unexpected

Setting off well prepared helps to minimise the stress of an unexpected and unpleasant emergency situation. Don’t forget to invest in a well-equipped spares and tool kit. Spare bulbs, a warning triangle, a fi re extinguisher and a fi rst-aid kit are legal requirements in many fi rst-world countries.

A spare tyre or quick repair kit is also essential. Nearside and off side extending mirrors are a must, to see what is happening behind you.

Tow responsibly

Anyone towing a horsebox should be calm and relaxed. Be aware of the surrounding traffi c conditions and limiting your cruising speed to 80 km/h to 100 km/h. Respect the speed limit where you are travelling. Keep a safe following distance allowing you enough time to react and stop, and helping you stay calm and in control.

These few towing tips will contribute to an enjoyable, relaxed and safe journey:

• Keep enough following distance to anticipate traffic ahead.
• Only overtake other vehicles, particularly trucks, when you are certain there is ample space and time to do so. Never try to rush overtaking a vehicle!
• When overtaking large vehicles such as trucks or buses, be aware of the pull eff ect. Aerodynamics will pull you towards the truck when overtaking and after finishing the maneuver, your vehicle will be pulled to the opposite direction.
• Regularly monitor traffic behind to be aware of other vehicles that wish to overtake you.
• If you see a long queue of cars behind you, especially on curvy mountain roads, use turnouts to allow them to pass.
• When turning, always remember to swing wide. A quick glance in the mirror will help to get this right.
• If your trailer begins to sway, remain calm. Do not brake – remove your foot from the accelerator to reduce speed. When the swaying has stopped, gradually increase the speed again.
• When driving or parking, consider the height, length and width of the trailer to avoid collisions with objects alongside, above or behind you.

This article was provided by Goodyear Tyre & Rubber Holdings, Port Elizabeth, www.goodyear.co.za.