backing up with a trailer

I have a 2910 and I am considering getting a 14ft box trailer to tow behind it. Is it hard to backup with a trailer? If  it is I can avoid having to backup, put I hate to be limited to pull thru sites at rv parks. thanks Rick

I have a 2910 and I am considering getting a 14ft box trailer to tow behind it. Is it hard to backup with a trailer? If  it is I can avoid having to backup, put I hate to be limited to pull thru sites at rv parks. thanks Rick

My toad is a GMC Terrain, but I have been considering a trailer for my Harley.  I have the same concerns as you (PC 3100).  It's been years since I towed a trailer with any kind of vehicle.  Many years ago, I had a 31' Itasca Windcruiser and had no problem with a trailer (I was MUCH younger). 

If I get a trailer, I plan to practice by setting up some cones or some kind of markers.  I don't want to become entertainment for other campers.

Barry T

I have a 2910 and I am considering getting a 14ft box trailer to tow behind it. Is it hard to backup with a trailer? If  it is I can avoid having to backup, put I hate to be limited to pull thru sites at rv parks. thanks Rick

As long as you have experience backing a trailer you should be fine.   It does help if you have a partner to guide you.

If you don't have experience, I strongly suggest you practice at a large empty parking lot.  Lots of practice as in hours, not just a few times.

Practice is the key. Many people back a trailer with their hand on the steering wheel at the 12 o'clock position. At the 12 o'clock position, you need to turn the steering wheel the opposite direction that you want the trailer to move. Try this. Put your hand on the steering wheel at the 6 o'clock position. Now you turn the steering wheel in the direction that you want the trailer to move. Try it.

I have a 2910 and I am considering getting a 14ft box trailer to tow behind it. Is it hard to backup with a trailer? If  it is I can avoid having to backup, put I hate to be limited to pull thru sites at rv parks. thanks Rick

Towed mine this weekend, but with a 2350. I have a 13' tandem box trailer. I found out at full 'jacknife' with the trailer to the right the tongue mounted spare just barely hits the ladder. (Assuming from the now bent ladder.... ) and thats my fault for not using a spotter. When you first start using it, check all clearances while you train in a parking lot.

Backing up with a trailer is patience and practice. It can get SUPER aggravating the third (fourth?fifth?)  time you have to try to get into a spot... but getting angry and hasty does NOT help. Cones and an empty lot are a good way to train.

Its worth looking to find a lighter tandem trailer, they tow so much smoother than a single axle. My 2 cents.

thanks for the input. I'm concern getting out of a rv spot, utilities on one side, picnic table and trees on the other. Add to that a narrow road your backing on to. I will try practicing. Thanks

thanks for the input. I'm concern getting out of a rv spot, utilities on one side, picnic table and trees on the other. Add to that a narrow road your backing on to. I will try practicing. Thanks

You say you are concerned backing OUT of an rv parking spot.   That would mean you drove nose into the spot (presuming it's not a pull thru spot).  It is always easier to back into a parking spot than to back out.

I would strongly advise you back into a spot when ever you can.   

Lots of practice in an empty parking lot is the key.

Luvshack has the answer. I would add that placing two hands under the bottom of the steering wheel allows you to 'feed' the wheel through your two hands. As you will be using mirrors, feed left and the trailer rear moves left. And make many, many small adjustments. The longer the distance between hitch and axle, the easier the trailer will be to maneuver.

I would prefer to back into a rv site, but wouldn't that put the hookups on the wrong side?  Thanks Rick

Normally the back in spots will have hook ups on driver side (If you back in) and that is where your hookups are located.  As for backing the total rig in....your trailer may restrict how far you can back in, a consideration to keep in mine unless you have extra length  of power cord and hose to reach the pedestal.  Of course there would/could be exceptions to this.  Pull thru would be much easier if you intend to keep trailer attached.  If you are going to be in one location for an extended time,  the park may have a place you could drop the trailer and pickup upon departure.   Larry

Larry

Thanks for the reply. I will check out the rv parks to see if they have back in sites.