mindless_snail: This is one of those things that seems like basic trailer hauling 101 stuff, but it’s easy to forget when you’ve been doing it for a while. When you test the brakes 100 times and they always work great, then you’re in a hurry on one trip and skip it… that’s when the bad shit will happen.

I can get forgetful when I’m stressed out, so I have checklists for everything and I have my wife hold the checklist and check things off for me. It makes it harder for me to just skip shit or assume something is working without testing it.

likes2bwrong: I am trying to learn about rving from this sub and don’t know what this means… can elaborate please? Thx

1320Fastback: I test mine within the first 5′ every time I tow. Usually on the way out the driveway or RV Park.

NEHOG: Here is a hint: on many rigs the four way flashers trigger your trailer brakes. Two things, actually:

1. Don’t activate your four ways without turning off (or down as close to zero) your brake controller.
1. You can check to see if your brakes are activating by turning on your four ways and standing next to the tires on the trailer–they’ll buzz whenever the lights flash on!

andrewse: Two failures here really. I always test that the trailer plug is locked into the socket on the truck. A bent pin would cause it not to lock. I also test the trailer brakes within my first 10′ of travel.

Glad you lived to tell the tale.

Source: Always test your trailer brakes before heading onto freeways and main roads. I got a surprise towing 7000lbs.

How to Winterize Your RV eBook

FREE eBook...
'How to Winterize Your RV'

Your Guide for RV Winter Living & Storage.

Valuable Tips & Info help you prepare for cold weather. Includes winterization instructions for full-time or part-time winter RV living.

It's FREE and there's no obligation...
Download your copy today.

Thank You! You will be redirected to the eBook download page shortly... After you've had a read through, please let us know what you think about the 'How to Winterize Your RV' eBook.