Towing the SylvanSport GO can be a fun and exciting way to explore the great outdoors. However, if you’ve never towed anything before, it can also be a bit daunting. Especially backing up. This beginner’s guide will provide you with all the basic information you need to tow the SylvanSport GO safely and confidently.
- Check Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity Before you start towing the SylvanSport GO, it’s essential to check your vehicle’s towing capacity. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual should provide this information, or you can consult with your vehicle’s manufacturer or a reputable mechanic. The SylvanSport GO has a gross weight of 840 lbs, so make sure your vehicle can handle this weight plus the weight of any gear or supplies you’ll be bringing along. Be sure to consider the additional payload weight for anything you might be carrying on the trailer as well. The SylvanSport Go has a payload of 1,010 pounds on the main floor SylvanSport call the “gear deck”. If you’re carrying anything up top on the “equipment rack”, include that weight into the total payload.
- Choose the Right Hitch You’ll need to install a hitch on your vehicle to tow the SylvanSport GO. There are many different types of hitches available, so make sure to choose one that’s rated for the weight of the trailer and is compatible with your vehicle. A ball hitch is the most common type of hitch used for towing the SylvanSport GO.
- Connect the Hitch Once you have the hitch installed, it’s time to connect it to the SylvanSport GO. Make sure the hitch is level and that the ball is securely attached to the coupler on the trailer. The coupler should lock onto the ball with a firm click. Then, use the hitch pin to secure the ball in place.
- Check the Lights Before you hit the road, make sure all the lights on the SylvanSport GO are working correctly. Check the brake lights, turn signals, and running lights to ensure they’re all functioning correctly. If you’re not sure how to do this, ask someone for help or consult the trailer’s user manual.
- Check Your Tires Make sure your tires appear to be in good condition before heading out. This includes checking the PSI which should be 40-50 psi and that your tread and overall tire is in good condition.
- Adjust Your Driving Towing the SylvanSport GO will change the way your vehicle handles on the road. You’ll need to take turns more slowly, leave more space between you and other vehicles, and be more cautious when braking. It’s also a good idea to practice backing up and turning with the trailer attached before you hit the road.
- Practice Driving Practice in an open space to get a feel for how the trailer responds to your steering inputs and learn to anticipate its movements. When it comes to backing up, remember that patience is key. Take it slow, use your mirrors extensively, and if possible, have a spotter to guide you. Start with straightforward maneuvers before progressing to more challenging angles. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if it takes time to build confidence. With patience, focus, and consistent practice, you’ll soon become a skilled trailer tower and backing-up expert.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to towing the SylvanSport GO like a pro. Remember to take it slow, be cautious, and have fun exploring the great outdoors! If you haven’t already, be sure to check out our Review of the SylvanSport GO camping trailer.
Also, be sure to review the Operation Manual from SylvanSport that came with your GO trailer. If you don’t have the manual, a copy can be purchased directly from SylvanSport.