The Best Guide For Off-Road Towing
Navigating less-traveled roads is an adventure. But, that adventure can turn into a nightmare if your car breaks down on the way. To get to some of the most beautiful destinations, you have to travel off-road sometimes. This means that you must be prepared for all the unexpected circumstances that may happen.
Mechanical failure, physical injury, and harsh weather conditions are just a few of the things that you need to think about when considering traveling off-road. But it’s always worth it, thanks to the towing services available to help get you out of such situations.
Off-road towing can help you in unexpected accidents that might happen during your journey. Below we mention some tips for off-road towing.
Look For A Reliable Service
If your car breaks down on the way, you may choose to call for any towing service available. However, an unprofessional towing service can damage your car, waste your time, and cost you a lot of money.
A professional towing service has all the necessary tools and training required for safe towing. They have reputable workers and drivers that ensure the safe towing of your car. Ensure that they have the right trailer available for towing your car to move it to a safer place.
Watch Your Speed
Speed is the most important factor to consider not only for off-road towing purposes but also for driving. Don’t speed when towing a car, a trailer, or a caravan. You must abide by the speed for that area.
Your speed can prevent windscreen damage, accidents, or running over something. Make sure that you call a towing service that abides by the rules of speed.
Have The Right Tools
If you are planning to go off-road, it is advisable to have a set of all necessary tools that you may need. Keep important tools such as a basic toolkit, jacking plate, funnels, water, oil, extra tires, and others.
Moreover, your towing company must have a chain, cable, shovel, and boards to get your car unstuck. There can be extreme weather conditions such as hail or snow. Make sure that your towing service has all the necessary tools to avoid slipping.
It’s Good To Have An Off-Road Tow Hitch
Having certain tools can make jobs easier. One such tool is a tow hitch. It allows easy maneuverability and keeps the trailer leveled on uneven surfaces. It can also save your vehicle from getting flipped in case of an accident.
Protect Your Vehicle
If you are towing your vehicle from a faraway place, it’s likely that you will need to stop somewhere overnight. Bumping can cause loose screws and latches that can result in more problems. At each overnight stop, check for any loose hinges or screws. Doing so could help prevent you from further damage to your vehicle.
Keep Your Headlights On
Keeping your headlights on even during the day is a good idea. People can see you from a distance and know if there is a problem with your vehicle. Driving off-road can be dangerous as these roads are often dusty, keeping your headlights on ensures that other cars will be able to see you.
Inflate The Tires
Tires are the foremost thing to consider when heading off-road. Tires can blow out because of heavy pressure and weight. Make sure that the tires of your trailer are in good condition. They should be properly inflated, checking your wheel bearings is also a good idea before heading off-road.
Some Quick Tips
- ‘Off-road’ style coupling allows a bigger range of movement
- Have electric brakes fitted to the trailer
- You must know the low points underneath the car
- Side slopes can cause car roll-overs. Avoid that
- Don’t exceed the tow vehicle rated tow capacity
- For trucks, carry spare nuts, bearings, wheels, and studs
- Have the right jack to repair flat tires
- The maximum distance between vehicles should be 4.5 meters
- Turn on lights if gets dark
- If you are a tow truck driver, check your mirrors frequently to ensure everything is okay at the back
- Notice tow car brake lights and remain alert at all times to avoid accidents
About Action Towing
Action Towing is an experienced tow truck company that provides towing services, both on-road and off-road. You can see our work here or contact us for more information.