Truck’s hauling more than three million people purchased pickup trucks last year alone according to reports from the automotive industry. This number has been on a steady increase for the last several years. While a few people choose trucks for their looks rather than their utility value, most people buy them for their versatility and functionality.
For many, that means hauling loads when the need arises, towing trailers, and other tasks. Of course, how you approach towing and hauling could mean the difference between a vehicle that serves you well for decades to come and one that needs to be replaced long before its time.
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Making the Most of Your Pickup Truck
When you own any type of vehicle, upkeep is crucial. This means treating the vehicle well, keeping up with oil changes and other routine maintenance, and having repairs made when needed. Pickup trucks are built to take a beating more so than cars and certain vans and SUVs, but they still require a little care. Many products from companies like Pendaliner can help protect your truck from certain hazards as well.
Truck’s hauling are often subjected to far more abuse than other types of vehicles. People just expect more from a pickup truck than, say, a light passenger car. If you’re going to be hauling loads in your truck regularly, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.
Weight Distribution Matters
Most people don’t stand back and assess the items they’re loading into their truck’s hauling beforehand, and that’s often their downfall. When loading your pickup, it’s important to place the majority of the weight as close to the cab as possible and taper off slightly toward the back of the truck. Balance the load from side to side as well, and try to place smaller, lighter items near the middle of the bed. Otherwise, you could inadvertently damage the truck and set yourself up for an unsafe trip.
Towing Trailers
Loading trailers works in much the same way as filling the bed of a truck. Whether you’re towing an enclosed cargo trailer or an open one, the heaviest portion of the load should be near the tongue with lighter items placed toward the back. This will help minimize the amount of strain that’s transferred from the tongue of the trailer to the truck itself. Remember, it’s best to avoid allowing the height of the load to exceed that of the sides of the trailer with an open model.
Don’t Exceed the Truck’s Capabilities
Hauling or towing more weight than a truck is designed to handle can cause a wide range of problems, such as axle damage and excess wear and tear on the drive train to name a few. Before loading the bed or hitching a loaded trailer to the truck, be sure you know how much of a load it can take. On the inside of the driver’s-side door, you’ll find a sticker with several important numbers that tell you how much weight the truck can haul or tow.
One of those numbers is the GVWR, or gross vehicle weight rating. This is the amount of weight the truck can carry including passengers, cargo, and its own weight. Its GCWR, or gross combined weight rating, is the amount of weight it can tow and haul at the same time. Those are only a couple of the numbers to pay attention to. Read more: range rover for sale in pakistan for more details.
Secure the Load
Always be sure to tie down the load whether it’s on the bed of the truck or a trailer. In most areas, it’s illegal to haul or tow a load without doing so. Use tie-downs and ratchet straps for larger items, and be sure they’re secured to the truck rather than just other pieces you’re hauling. For smaller items, use nets secured to the truck bed or trailer.
Protect Your Truck Bed
If you’ll be hauling loads frequently, consider adding an extra layer of protection. Bed liners can help protect the bed’s paint and prevent dents or deep scratches. They can also keep loads from sliding around and making the drive more treacherous than necessary.
Overall
Trucks are meant for hauling and towing, so don’t hesitate to use this functionality when the need arises. Still, it’s important to be careful about how you load the truck or any trailers you’re towing. Doing so will prolong the life of the truck and help keep you and others safer on the road.