Many of us know it as ‘fishtailing’. Trailer sway is one of the most frightening and challenging driving issues to deal with.

With international travel becoming a rarity these days, more and more New Zealanders are looking to their own back yard for a holiday. As caravan and camper sales continue to climb, so do the risks of towing related accidents. All caravanners and campers should be aware of the dangers of trailer sway and roll-over. 

The first step to limiting trailer sway is to correctly distribute the load. Always load the heavier portion of your load towards the front of the tow, with approximately a 60/40 front/back split usually recommended. Always check the loading specifications of the trailer.

By placing the bulk of your towing weight at the front of the trailer’s axles, the load acts like an extension of the vehicle. The further the weight is placed away from the tow vehicle, the more pendulum – like the load becomes, and once it gets going it’s a skilled driver who can get the trailer back under control.

However, if the trailer has electrically triggered brakes, the best way to control trailer sway is with an electric brake controller with in-cab control. With two modes of braking – proportional or user-controlled - Redarc’s Tow-Pro Elite enables the user to set the braking style required to suit the terrain and vehicle type. 

If trailer sway does occur it is important to stay calm, apply the brakes gently, and use the override button on the Tow-Pro to apply the trailer brakes. Do not attempt to correct the sway, as quick steering movement will magnify the trailer oscillations rather than reduce them. By gently applying the brakes and pushing the override button, the vehicle and trailer sway will become aligned, and control can be regained.

Always take care when packing and hitting the road, including having the right gear. Don’t underestimate the importance of correctly distributing the load, as well as investing in the best electric brake controller, because while it may serve to save the trailer from damage or destruction, it may also save lives. 

Go low in the tight stuff

There’s one weapon 4WDers have that others don’t when it comes to towing or reversing in tight spaces. 

Low range slows down action and reaction, enabling the driver to make micro adjustments at lower speeds. It’s a force-multiplier that works as well where there’s an uphill piece of track or driveway to negotiate or a tricky corner to edge around.

Backing a caravan into a favoured camp spot or navigating the boat toward a crowded ramp becomes a doddle.

Just do remember to lock off the trailer brakes before starting the final approach - so many don’t!