S01 E14 - Winter Towing - Terrifying or Satisfying - Essential Tech and Tips

Article Courtesy Pacbrake Company

Long drives on snow-packed roads can be scenic, but they can become terrifying and driving with an RV on the hitch requires its own set of precautions. A good rule of thumb to remember is the more majestic the scenery, the more dangerous the road can be, which is especially true when travelling through unfamiliar territory.

With slippery roads and heavy snow smacking the windshield, you (and your rig) need to be properly prepared for potentially dangerous situations. Check out these tips from our towing experts so you can confidently take on unexpected weather and arrive at your destination safely this winter.

1. Tow Your Trailer with the Proper Equipment

● Air Suspension

Using bolt-on friction sway control products can actually be a hindrance in the winter as this equipment makes it harder to get control of the trailer on icy roads. You should have the proper weight distribution systems to what is referred to as air springs, airbags, or air-suspension springs. A good quality air-suspension system helps keep the ride smooth and your trailer in control.

● Exhaust Brakes

If you’re driving in the mountains with a diesel-powered tow vehicle, consider using exhaust brakes, which use the exhaust pressure from the engine to help brake the vehicle. As a result, there’s less wear and tear on the brakes since stopping power is more gentle and trailer sway will be mitigated.

2. Know Your Vehicle

Towing a new trailer and tow vehicle in ideal conditions can be difficult enough while you get used to it. If you’re taking a new trailer or truck out in the winter, be sure to do some test runs on less populated roads to learn how it runs and operates in inclement weather.

3. Maintain Your Truck and Trailer

Maintenance goes a long way when it comes to safe travelling in the winter. Before leaving, double-check that the suspension, tires and brakes on the truck and trailer are working properly, all of the essential fluids for the truck are replenished, and that the towing equipment is performing flawlessly.

4. Keep Extra Gear in the Truck

If you were to have an accident in a remote area and severely damage or even lose your trailer, you wouldn’t have any survival gear or necessities while waiting for help to arrive. Always have extra blankets, a first aid kit, food, water, matches, a tinder kit, and tarp (at the very minimum) stored in your truck (see the sidebar for more details at the end of the article).

5. Drive the Speed Limit or at Comfortable Speeds

Speed limits indicate how safe it is to drive at a certain speed in good conditions. When it’s snowing or extremely cold, maintain a safe speed, especially on unfamiliar roads. If drivers behind you get impatient, let them pass.

Plus More Gear and Driving Tips

Essential Items to Have in a Tow Vehicle by Steve Fennel

Whether you travel in wintery regions for a few hours or a few days, it’s always best to be prepared for an accident or ‘the unexpected’ by having the essential items in your tow vehicle as suggested by Transport Canada. Certain tools/equipment in addition to food, water, and warm clothing will provide a great element of relief should you need it.

● Small shovel with a long handle

● Sand and traction mats

● Warning lights, reflective safety triangles or road flares

● Extra socks, gloves, and footwear

● Emergency food pack and water bottles

● Booster cables, fire extinguisher

● Extra windshield washer fluid, fuel line antifreeze, and extra fuses

● Lock de-icer and small tool kit

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