Towing a trailer in Windy Conditions

By Dimo: July 12, 2007
Topics: Trailer Towing | 1 Comment »
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Wind can create havoc when towing a trailer, causing oscillations or sudden pulling to one side. Thirty mile an hour crosswinds can blow you off the road if there is a sudden gust. For example, say a hard gust of wind hits your rig from the left. Your rig pitches to the right and moves towards right. In order to stay on the road you turn left. With the rig leaning to the right, the centrifugal force generated by the left turn can be the added ingredient that puts you on your side, or worse yet, down the side of a ravine.

The only way to help lower the risk traveling in these conditions is to slow down. This eliminates the centrifugal force that happens when you correct, and if the wind did blow you over it wouldn’t be such a violent crash. The safest way is not to drive in extremely windy conditions. That’s what the professional haulers do, and so should you. Park it until it’s safe to continue. Wind can also have a dramatic effect on your fuel mileage when towing a heavy load. Plan your fuel stops accordingly.
NOTE: Several types of trailer sway control braces are available that can minimize the effects of wind gusts and passing trucks.

 

One Response to “Towing a trailer in Windy Conditions”

John Says: July 12th, 2007 at 9:38 pm

john here thanks for the grate info. This blog has heaps of good info
cheers

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