Backing up a trailer is an important skill, and with some “knowhow” and a bit of practice, you can master this skill.
#trailer #trailerbacking #backatrailer
In this episode, DirtFarmerJay reveals a few insider tips on trailer backing, as well as showing you WHY the tow vehicle and the trailer being towed behave as they do when backing and turning. You’ll also see how “jackknifing” occurs, how to avoid it, and how different sized trailers behave differently.
When backing, you can either use your mirrors or turn your head and look directly back at the trailer and where you are backing. Both work but we find using our mirrors is most convenient. We also use a handplacement “trick” for the steering wheel to make it easier.
When backing a trailer, you are in reality pushing the trailer from its front. That means if the trailer tongue goes to the right, the rear of the trailer will go left, and viceversa. This is why turning the tow vehicle’s front tires to the right causes the trailer rear to go to the left and why steering, when backing the trailer, seems “backward” or “reverse common sense.”
Once you understand how backing works, you’ll need to practice a bit to master the technique. We suggest an empty parking lot, with no spectators. This allows you to relax and not be put under any “pressure to perform.” This is the time to learn, develop needed “muscle memory” and the time you invest will pay you dividends for years to come!
With a couple of practice sessions, you’ll be pleasantly surprised how quickly you become proficient and confident in backing your trailer. Now that you have skills, when the need arises, you can JUST DO IT YOURSELF!
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