How to hook up your trailer

🔧 HOW TO HOOK UP A TRAILER SAFELY

1. Prepare the Tow Vehicle and Trailer

  • Park on level ground – Make sure both the vehicle and trailer are on flat, stable ground.
  • Engage the handbrake on the tow vehicle and trailer (if fitted)
  • Chock trailer wheels to prevent rolling while hitching.

2. Check Compatibility

  • Ensure the towball or coupling type matches the trailer coupling (e.g., 50mm ball, pintle, etc.).
  • Confirm that the tow vehicle’s towing capacity and towbar rating are suitable for the trailer’s loaded weight.

3. Position the Vehicle

  • Reverse the tow vehicle slowly until the towball is directly under the trailer coupling.
  • If available, have a spotter guide you, or use a reversing camera.

4. Connect the Coupling

  • Raise or lower the trailer coupling using the jockey wheel until it sits over the towball.
  • Lower the coupling fully onto the towball.
  • Lock the coupling latch securely. Some couplings have a pin or clip to secure the latch—insert it.
  • Raise and stow the jockey wheel securely so it won’t contact the ground when driving.

5. Attach Safety Chains

  • Connect each safety chain to the designated attachment points on the towbar.
  • Use rated D-shackles or clips.
  • Cross the chains under the coupling (where possible) — this helps catch the drawbar if it disconnects.
  • Ensure there is enough slack for turning, but not enough to drag on the ground.

6. Connect Electrical Plug

  • Plug in the trailer’s electrical connector (usually 7-pin or 12-pin).
  • Check that:
    • Tail lights
    • Brake lights
    • Indicators
    • Clearance and number plate lights
      are all working correctly.

7. Connect the Breakaway Controller (If Fitted)

Breakaway systems are mandatory for trailers over 2,000 kg GTM (Gross Trailer Mass).

  • Locate the breakaway cable or lanyard attached to the trailer’s breakaway controller.
  • Clip the cable to a secure, independent point on the tow vehicle (not to the safety chain or electrical plug).
  • Ensure there is enough slack for turning but not so much that it could drag or snag.
  • Check that the breakaway battery on the trailer is charged.
  • Test the system (if possible) by pulling the pin slightly to confirm the trailer brakes activate, then reinsert it.

8. Final Checks Before Towing

  • Remove wheel chocks from the trailer.
  • Check the trailer handbrake is released.
  • Confirm load security – cargo should be evenly distributed and tied down.
  • Inspect tyres on both vehicle and trailer for correct pressure and condition.
  • Double-check:
    • Coupling locked
    • Chains connected and crossed
    • Electrical plug secure
    • Breakaway cable attached

9. Test Tow Setup

  • Drive forward a short distance at low speed.
  • Gently apply the brakes to ensure trailer braking operates correctly.
  • Recheck all connections after a few minutes of travel.

✅ Safety Tips

  • Always use rated components for towing.
  • Recheck connections at fuel stops or rest breaks.
  • If towing a caravan, check that any stabiliser or sway control (if fitted) is properly set.

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