Trailer towing is not difficult but if you are new to towing, it may be a little intimidating at first. Also don't load something very heavy towards the back of the trailer. Must not exceed 7m, excluding A-frame and hitch (regs 7 & 8 of Road Vehicles Construction and Use Regulations - 1986). Towing a car can seem a little daunting at first so here's our helpful guide with some advice.
In the case of braked trailers the breakaway cable will activate the trailer handbrake in the event of the trailer becoming uncoupled. If it is windy or passing vehicles are affecting the trailer, slow down until full, comfortable control can be maintained. Winches on car trailers are to winch your car onto the trailer only.
Alternatively, have someone guide you whilst standing in your field of vision (and never behind the tow vehicle or trailer). Have an observer confirm your brake lights, blinkers and running lights are working properly roadside Assistance each time you hook up. If you are in doubt as to the best way to cope with the weight of the trailer, consult someone specialising in towing equipment.
This type of hitch has some real advantages, but government studies have shown they can actually work too well, lightening the load on the rear wheels of the tow vehicle sufficient to reduce traction. As far as we understand, temporary recovery of another vehicle (ie towing it) using a two rope is permitted, but the towed vehicle must have current tax, insurance and MOT.
So, in other words, if you've pulled up perpendicular to a spot on your passenger side, enough ahead of the spot to back up, stop the car and jack the wheel to the left, or the driver's side. This means that if you are bearing left around a corner and your tow vehicles drivers side front wheels are just right of the center line, the trailer wheels will actually be on or left of the center line going into the on-coming traffic lane.
