Many people think that it is a simple task to tow your vehicle. Not only could it be very dangerous, but it can even be illegal in your state, making it a bad idea in general. As it can make the job even harder, there are a lot of things you need to keep in mind as well. When towing your vehicle, if you don’t take certain precautions, a lot can go wrong. Today, we at Calderon Tow & Auto would like to discuss why you should avoid DIY towing and call a professional for all of your towing needs.
Tongue Weight
Known as tongue weight is the amount of towing weight that is borne by the tow ball. Your steering mechanism is directly affected by the tongue weight. Controlling your vehicle is made difficult if there is too much tongue weight. You cannot ignore this complicated measurement. Unless you know the proper tongue weight, and have experience towing, it is in your best interest to call a professional.
Tow Rating
The weight a vehicle can pull without any problems is vehicle tow rating. There are different tow ratings with every vehicle. You risk overloading your vehicle when attempting if you don’t know your vehicle tow rating. You risk such things like overheated transmissions, broken suspensions, blown-out tires, failing brakes and more. To learn more about your vehicles proper tow rating, check your owner’s manual.
Braking System
When they are hauling equipment or other vehicles, towing vehicles become extra heavy. This extra weight causes the braking system of the towing vehicle to be less effective, and it also means it takes longer to come to a complete stop. Many states require towing vehicles over a certain weight to have a separate braking system because of this safety hazard. Consider a towing company such as Calderon Tow & Auto if you are unsure about your weight and brakes.
Confusion with the Towbar
Important to have when towing a vehicle are towbars. Though sometimes a variety of vehicles can use the same rated towbar, towbars have their own ratings. Other vehicles require a specific rated towbar, however. When purchasing a towbar as you will want to avoid the one that is not legal for your car, you will need to be really careful. Call a professional towing company like Calderon Tow & Auto to better avoid all the confusion.
Local Regulations
From state to state, towing laws and restrictions vary. Most states require a towing vehicle to use taillights and safety chains, as you may already know. However, some states also require you to use extra precautions such as additional rearview and side mirrors, etc., something you may not know. There are specific maximum limits for towing vehicles apart from this. They end up being heavily fined by the local authorities since most people that tow their own vehicles do not know all these rules and regulations.
Towing & Roadside Assistance in San Mateo, San Francisco, Daly City & Colma, CA | Greater Bay Area of California
Ultimately, to avoid damage and to keep you and other safe on the road, you should leave your towing needs to the professionals, even if it is fairly short distance. For towing services throughout San Mateo, San Francisco, Daly City & Colma, CA contact Calderon Tow & Auto and let us take care of safe and efficient towing.
