How To Load Your UTV
Whether you’re using your UTV for a fun outing or for working tasks, you’re in for a real treat. Many UTVs provide powerful performance and room for friendly companions. Not to mention, they can haul a significant amount of weight. But you’ll probably have to transport your UTV to your destination which can be a little nerve-wracking. UTVs aren’t cheap so you’ll want to take good care of them when you’re barreling down the highway. Abernathy’s Cycles has provided a step by step guide to loading and transporting your UTV that will minimize the potential for a disaster. If you need help or supplies, visit us in Union City, Tennessee near Memphis and Nashville. We proudly serve all Tennessee citizens so stop in today!
Consider the Trailer
Most newer UTVs are too large for pickups so you’ll probably need to get a trailer specifically for your UTV. Make sure you understand how your trailer loads and unloads equipment and that it’s capable of hauling UTVs. Single axle designs are rockier and less stable, but the sturdier double axle trailers are usually more expensive.
Stabilize the Trailer
When you’re ready to load your UTV, level out your trailer and hook it to the tow vehicle first. Make sure you’re on flat, even ground for your safety and put chocks in front of your wheels to add stability. Then use the drawbar to lift the tongue high enough to allow the tow vehicle hitch to fit under it. If your ramp is connected to your trailer, lower it, or if it’s separate, attach it.
Making Connections
After hooking and stabilizing your trailer, securely hook up the chains, wires, and connections between trailer and tow vehicle. Remember to cross safety chains in an “X” formation under the tongue. Make all necessary electrical connections and attach the harness to control the trailer’s brakes. Then make sure to test everything before loading the UTV to avoid making corrections with a loaded trailer.
Drive it Up
Now it’s time to get your UTV on the trailer. You’ll still want to be wearing your protective gear, including your helmet, in case you miss your mark and the vehicle falls off. Approach at a gentle, but confident speed to get up the ramp but not overshoot your target. Try to load as symmetrically as possible to keep the weight distribution even and centered over the axle. Put your UTV in park and engage the parking brake. Then strap down the vehicle firmly to make sure it’s securely in the trailer and won’t move around while you’re in transit.
On the Road
Driving with any kind of trailer presents its own issues, and we suggest you do plenty of practice. Remember to keep an eye on your trailer while you’re in motion and stop often to check on your trailer and UTV. Tug on the straps to make sure they haven’t grown slack and that the lights and brakes are still working. Check tire pressure if you haven’t done so in a little while. Finally, be aware of strange noises that could indicate something’s wrong. Don’t continue on the road if something is broken or is going to break.
If you follow these guidelines, you should get your UTV to your destination without any problem. Being smart and careful are the most important steps in working with a trailer, especially one loaded with a UTV. If you need any additional help, talk to the experienced staff of Abernathy’s Cycles in Union City, Tennessee near Memphis and Nashville, proudly serving all of Tennessee.