How To Set Up an ATV Trailer
An ATV trailer offers a safe and secure way to get your powersports vehicle to the trailhead. But the trailer must be set up correctly in order to get its benefits. Otherwise, you could end up with damage to the four-wheeler, damage to the tow vehicle, or even an accident with another motorist on the road.
Use the following guide to properly set up your ATV trailer. If you have any questions or want to shop ATV trailers for sale, head over to Mountain West Trailers. Our expert staff is happy to answer questions and give advice. We are a trailer dealer in Heber City, Utah, and we also serve those in Salt Lake City.
Prepare for a Safe Towing Experience
Start with a pre-trip inspection. Check that the tow vehicle, the ATV trailer, and the quad are in good condition and capable of a safe trip. Tires should be inflated to the right level, all the lights should be bright, and so on.
Connect the ATV Trailer
Position the ATV trailer tongue above the ball hitch. Back up the tow vehicle and make sure the latch is positioned beneath the trailer tongue. Lower the tongue so that it's on the ball joint and secure. Don't forget to cross the tow chains under the tongue in an "X" shape.
Load the Four-Wheeler
Position the ramp, then bring the quad up it as straight as possible. The trick here is balance. Get enough distance and speed to get up the ramp, but not so much that you overshoot the target.
Once the four-wheeler is on the trailer, the next step is to get is secure. Ratchet straps are a common choice. They reduce the amount of quad movement by compressing the suspension. After you secure the ATV, shake it from different sides. If it moves or wiggles, the straps need to be tightened or you need to add more of them.
Practice Safe ATV Trailer Towing
Keep in mind that the weight of the four-wheeler and the trailer will affect the handling of your tow vehicle. The turning radius, stopping distance, and so on will be different. Alter your driving accordingly. Leave more space between yourself and other vehicles on the road, for example. If it's your first time towing the ATV trailer, you may even want to practice in a parking lot or low traffic residential road before hitting the highway.
Ready to shop ATV trailers for sale? Explore the selection at Mountain West Trailers. Our friendly staff can help you find the perfect match. Peruse the available models online or stop by our dealership in Heber City, Utah. We also proudly serve Salt Lake City, Utah.