emergency coupler

[Yerg]

Does anyone offer a coupler that can be used in the rear receiver of the Hi-lo? In a situation where a U-turn is impossible, I always thought it would be nice to have a coupler that could be temporarily used to get out of a trouble spot like a narrow switch back. Unhook, then turn around and drive past the camper, then hook up backwards.

 

[Garry-HILO]

Does anyone offer a coupler that can be used in the rear receiver of the Hi-lo? In a situation where a U-turn is impossible, I always thought it would be nice to have a coupler that could be temporarily used to get out of a trouble spot like a narrow switch back. Unhook, then turn around and drive past the camper, then hook up backwards.

I am by far no expert on towing, but it would seem with the majority of the trailer weight in front of the trailer axles, you would have to have a wheel on the jack stand for balance, but could very easily snap off with the least little bump in the road.

 

[Yerg]

That makes sense - you're probably right. Thanks.

 

[lincow]

My neighbor suggested I put a coupler on the front of TV so I wouldn't have to back up. He told me he was able to drive his boat into his garage with 3 in clearance. I don't know if that would be a solution for you. I don't know what the visibility would be. I have thought about it since I struggle with backing up.
Lincow
0222TD
9219

 

[JackandJanet]

It just takes practice, Lincow. I think the biggest problem is that we "overcontrol" when backing. We turn much more gradually when going forward. Try backing using very small turning inputs from the straight ahead position, see how that effects the travel of the trailer. It really turns quicker than it first appears, in my opinion.

- Jack

 

[Garry-HILO]

That makes sense - you're probably right. Thanks.

some people add a tow receiver on the front of their truck/car.

 

[underpsi]

It just takes practice, Lincow. I think the biggest problem is that we "overcontrol" when backing. We turn much more gradually when going forward. Try backing using very small turning inputs from the straight ahead position, see how that effects the travel of the trailer. It really turns quicker than it first appears, in my opinion.

- Jack

Biggest trick my dad taught me is to remember to turn the bottom of the steering wheel in the direction you want the back end of your trailer to go.
/Ken

 

[JackandJanet]

Biggest trick my dad taught me is to remember to turn the bottom of the steering wheel in the direction you want the back end of your trailer to go.
/Ken

Yup - but that doesn't tell you how much to turn or when to STOP turning the wheel - when to straighten it out so that the tow vehicle will simply follow the trailer in its new path instead of increasing the turn.

To me, this is the real skill point in backing a trailer.

- Jack