3. Road gradient. I don’ t know how many times I’ ve heard of drivers who experience trailer sway when going down a hill, even though their rig is normally stable. This is due to the effects of gravity on the rear of the trailer, causing it to feel like it’ s trying to overtake the tow vehicle.
4. Speed. This is probably the least understood cause of trailer sway. When I was towing my trailer-load of sleepers, it was fine at speeds up to around 65km / h. As I drove faster, the trailer started to sway, and it got worse the faster I drove. It stands to reason that the faster you drive, the more energy you are putting into an already unstable situation.
Checking all your connection points will help to ensure safe towing.
5. Strong or sudden gusts of wind. Cross-winds are particularly dangerous, especially if they hit the side of your van suddenly, such as when you drive over a bridge. If you see a sign warning of cross-winds, slow down and be prepared for any instability. Another source of strong winds can come from the pressure wave of passing trucks.
This home-made dog trailer caravan has been touring around Australia for many years. It would take special skill to reverse it into a tight site.
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