Trailer Hookup Guide
All of the trailer couplings used by our company are certified under the Australian Design Rules (ADR), which are the official national standards for vehicle safety in Australia. We always prioritize customer safety and do our utmost to ensure reliable and secure performance during every use.
However, we have noticed that many people tend to overlook the correct procedure when connecting a trailer or caravan to a vehicle, which can lead to serious accidents.
For your safety and the safety of others, please carefully follow each of the steps below:
Steps for Connecting a Trailer to a Tow Vehicle
1.Reverse Toward the Trailer
Slowly reverse the vehicle toward the trailer so the tow ball is near the coupling. If you don’t have a reversing camera, a helper may be needed to guide you.
2.Raise the Trailer Coupling
Turn the handle on the jockey wheel (support wheel) clockwise to raise the coupling, allowing the tow ball to pass underneath.
3.Position the Tow Ball Under the Coupling
Continue reversing until the tow ball is directly under the coupling cup. If the trailer is light and not loaded, you may also manually move it into position.
4.Lower the Coupling Onto the Tow Ball
Use the jockey wheel to slowly lower the coupling onto the tow ball. Ensure it is properly seated, then adjust the screw on top of the coupling so that it firmly presses against the tow ball, and tighten it. Lock the coupling handle using the safety latch.
5.Attach the Safety Chains
Connect the safety chains to the tow bar using D-shackles. If there are two chains, cross them in an “X” shape before securing.
Crossing the chains creates a cradle that can help catch the trailer drawbar and prevent it from hitting the ground if the trailer becomes unhitched during travel.
In such a case, slow down gradually to avoid the trailer crashing into the rear of the vehicle.
6.Connect the Electrical Plug
Insert the trailer plug into the vehicle’s electrical socket on the tow bar. Make sure it is securely connected.
7.Stow the Jockey Wheel
Raise the jockey wheel completely off the ground and move it into the horizontal storage position. If it is not a swing-up type, fully wind it up or remove it.
8.Remove Wheel Chocks and Release the Handbrake
If wheel chocks are in place, remove them. Then release the trailer handbrake and set the latch to the “open” position.
9.Test All Trailer Lights Individually
Check brake lights, indicators, and tail lights one by one. Avoid using hazard lights to test turn signals, as this can give a false result.