Towing Heavy Equipment
You own a truck for a number of reasons. You like its durability. Owning a truck means having the extra space for carrying your gear. Owning a truck means having the functionality of going off-road whenever you choose. It means you can tow a travel trailer. It also means you have the option of towing heavy equipment whenever the need arises.
When the job calls for it, owning a truck means that you can tow heavy equipment like boats, cars, other trucks, mobile generators, mini excavators and skid steers. But what towing equipment do you need for heavy duty towing? And what are some tips for pulling a heavy load safely?
What towing equipment do I need for heavy duty towing?
The first piece of equipment you need to haul heavy equipment is a high quality hitch designed for heavy or even extreme duty towing. Next, you’ll need something to attach that hitch to, namely a trailer. Before deciding upon a trailer you will need to know your truck’s towing capacity as well as the weight and dimensions of the payload you will be hauling. Choose a trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) that’s up to the job. The total weight you are towing (including the trailer) must not exceed your trailer’s GVWR.
Another piece of essential equipment for heavy duty towing are hitch stabilizer bars. This bit of essential towing equipment will improve steering and stop your trailer from applying any undue force to the tow vehicle, as in vehicle sway. Finally, when hauling heavy equipment it’s vital that you secure the payload using safety chains. These vital pieces of safety equipment are usually an afterthought when it comes to preparing your heavy duty towing setup. Our safety chains feature solid steel construction for maximum strength and durability. They are specifically made for heavy or even extreme duty towing.
Safety tips for towing heavy equipment
Towing heavy equipment comes with added responsibility. Being well versed in how to load and haul heavy equipment safely is essential. Transporting heavy machinery needs to be done not only safely, but also legally. Failing to tow heavy equipment properly can result in overloading your trailer’s GVWR, potentially leading to such dangers as brake failure or blown tires. Or, you may even being be fined. The following tips will help get you and your payload to your destination safely and efficiently:
- Ensure your trailer and ramps are clean and debris free
- Park your trailer on a level surface
- Load your heavy equipment using a spotter to assist (if possible)
- Secure your heavy equipment by using tight, heavy-duty chains to tie it down at the indicated tie-down points
- Plan ahead the most direct and convenient route
So there you have it, when it comes to towing heavy equipment, it’s vital to not only have the right equipment but also abide by correct safety precautions. That way that you guarantee arriving at your destination with your heavy equipment in tow without being a danger to yourself or other road users.
