When your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, it can be a frightening and frustrating experience. If you don't have anyone to call when you need help, it can frustrate you even more. A few months ago, my truck quit on the way to work. Since I work and live in a rural area, finding someone to give me a lift to the city isn't always easy. Luckily, my employer sent a tow truck driver to help me out. The driver towed my car to a shop in town to get it repaired. The driver also offered a few tips on how to stay safe in a rural area. If you need advice or information about towing, read my blog. I show you how to keep cool under tough situations and what to do when you need towing help. Thanks for visiting.
Stuck and Need Towing Help? Find Tips Here
Tips For Towing a Vehicle Long-Distance on a Trailer
Kylie Torres
If you're moving across the country and are renting a moving truck or van to haul your belongings, you'll need to find a way to get your vehicle to your new home. In another scenario, you may have two cars and need to find a way to get them both to your destination. While having a friend or family member drive the automobile for you is ideal, it may not be possible.
Another option is to tow your vehicle on a dolly behind a moving truck or your second automobile. This may be a cheaper alternative to hiring an auto transport company to haul it for you, and you'll have your vehicle with you the entire way. You also won't have to worry about arriving in your new city a day or even a week before your automobile does.
There are a few things you should do before and during the move to ensure your car or truck arrives safely at the other end. While towing a car is a fairly simple procedure, you'll want to play it safe.
Here are some things to consider when towing your vehicle on a dolly.
Prior to the Trip:
1. Before hitting the road, make sure you have the proper type of trailer and hitch for the car or truck that will be doing the towing. You'll have the option to either haul the automobile completely off of the ground or with the back two wheels on the ground, depending on your budget.
Different types of vehicles require different towing set-ups, and some cars may be too small to haul a trailer at all, so be sure to check with the rental company before making plans. You'll obviously want to use the larger of your two vehicles to tow.
2. Drive your vehicle onto the trailer so that the engine is in the front and the trunk is in the back. Avoid hauling any of your belongings in the vehicle that is being towed, since extra vehicles can make it too heavy for the trailer. Check the connections to make sure the turn signals are working properly, and secure the automobile to the trailer using heavy-duty chains and tire straps.
During the Trip:
1. Each time you stop at a rest area or gas station, give the towing set-up a quick inspection. Check the pressure in the vehicle's back two tires if they're on the pavement during the trip.
2. Drive at least five miles per hour below your usual speed, and allow enough room for wide turns while pulling a trailer.
If anything happens to your car and you need help towing it, contact a towing company similar to Michael's Towing & Recovery.
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