If you are driving the tow vehicle you must hold a current licence appropriate for the vehicle and environment in which you are operating. This licence must meet state/territory requirements and any local SOPs requirements. Where required ensure you have completed an induction specific to the type of vehicle and local environment.
Ensure the trailer is attached to the towing vehicle by the trailer coupling. The coupling on the front of the trailer drops over a ball on the back of the towbar and then locks down. These two parts must match in size. The class of trailer determines the ball size. The tow ball should be securely attached to the towing vehicle and should be appropriate for the load you are attempting to pull.
Beach Handling- Beach Trailers
Towing a beach trailer with a vehicle such as an SSV or 4WD will require more time and spatial awareness due to the challenges when manoeuvring on the beach. The trailer must be secured to the towing vehicle with a minimum of one safety chain.
Beach trailers are generally lighter weight and can be driven/pushed into the water to assist with launching an RWC.
Beach trailers handle in a similar manner to road trailers, however, more load may need to be applied to overcome resistance from loose sand.
Road Handling – Road Trailers
When towing an RWC trailer it is important to be aware that the weight that you are pulling will make your towing vehicle less responsive in many respects. Speeding up, slowing down and all manoeuvres will require more time to accomplish. Leave more room between you and any vehicle in front of you to make sure you can stop suddenly should it become necessary. The RWC must be secured with appropriately rated ties or straps and safety chain. For safety reasons, do NOT use octopus (ocky) straps.
When towing an RWC on the road:
- Make sure your rear-view mirrors (internal and external) are large enough to provide an unobstructed rear view on both sides of the vehicle and extending beyond the towed RWC.
- Kerbs and barriers must be given a wide berth when turning corners.
Reversing the RWC Trailer
- The trailer will turn in the opposite direction to the vehicle; take it slowly and try to avoid oversteering and jack-knifing.
- Avoid riding (partially engaging) the clutch in vehicles with a manual transmission.
- It is highly recommended that a second person act as a spotter, to assist the vehicle Operator, as well as to keep watch for hazards or obstructions which commonly include people who walk behind a reversing vehicle. A spotter is especially important if the sled is fitted to the ski to avoid damage to any equipment.
- Vehicles should also be fitted with a reversing alarm and mirrors capable of providing a clear view behind the towed load.
Tips for reversing a Trailer
- Take It Slow: The most important thing is to take your time. Rushing can lead to mistakes. Go slowly and make small adjustments as you go.
- Align the Trailer: Before you even start reversing, position your vehicle so the trailer is in line with the ramp. This will make it easier to reverse in a straight line.
- Make Small Adjustments: Avoid oversteering. Moving your steering wheel to the left causes the trailer to go right, and vice versa. Small, smooth adjustments will prevent you from veering off course.
- Keep the Trailer Straight: If the trailer starts to jackknife or veer off, straighten out by moving forward a little and resetting your angle.
- Get Out and Check: If you’re unsure about the angle or alignment, don’t hesitate to get out of the vehicle and check before you continue. If you do get out remember to engage the park brake! Better still use a spotter to help direct you.
- Practice: Practice makes perfect, so if you can, try practicing on an empty ramp, carpark or a quieter spot before you head to a busy boat ramp.