Trailer 101: 5 Tips for Loading, Securing, & Unloading

Depending on the job, you will need a specific trailer to tow equipment to the jobsite. Barreto Manufacturing currently offers three custom designs for towing your equipment. Check out the tips below on loading, securing, and unloading these hardy helpers.

1. 

   Basic Trailer Safety & Maintenance

2. Load it Up

• DGT vs TBT

3. Strap it Down

4. Before You Go

5. Stop & Check

1. Basic Trailer Safety & Maintenance

It’s important to check the trailer before and after use to ensure all parts are operating as they should. Look for visible signs of wear, check lugnuts, check that tires are inflated to the proper PSI, and confirm brake lights (if equipped) are in working order. Check your axle manual for specifics on when to repack bearings. Finally, if the trailer is dirty, give it a good pressure wash before it goes back out into the field.

2. Load it Up

The loading procedure differs depending on which trailer is in use. Each trailer requires a 2” ball mount on the towing vehicle.

DGT vs. TBT

• The 3X4DGT trailer is built exclusively for the 712MTH Micro Trencher. The gate drops down to create an easy ramp to drive the trencher up. The machine will fit nicely into the pocket at the front of the trailer, where you then secure the pin that holds the trencher in place. Secure the drop gate back to it’s upright and locked position before towing.
  
  
• The 4X6TBT and the 3X4TBT are both tilt bed trailers. The 3X4TBT is designed for towing Barreto tillers, while the 4X6TBT offers multiple tie down points and a variety of mounting brackets for accommodating many pieces of Barreto equipment. Undo the latch pin at the front that allows the bed to tilt back to the ground. Drive the machine slowly onto the trailer, allowing the bed to return to a level position where it latches into place.

3. Strap it Down

All Barreto trailers are equipped with D-ring tie down locations. When loading a machine, note the given tie down points. Run a chain through the D-rings on the trailer and the loops on the machine to secure. On the tilt bed trailers, if the chain is too long for appropriate tension, hook to the ratchet load binder and tighten down.

4. Before You Go

Before pulling the trailer behind the tow vehicle, assess the loaded machine and check that the tie down points retain tension. See that the trailer is holding the weight of the machine appropriately and that the machine looks secure. Double check that the machine shut down procedures have been followed; turn off the engine and close the fuel shutoff valve.

Safety chains must be crossed under the trailer hitch and connected securely to the towing vehicle. This prevents the trailer from dropping to the ground should the hitch come disconnected for any reason. Do not let the chains drag on the ground.

5. Stop and Check

After pulling the trailer a few blocks, it’s a good idea to stop and check the safety chains and tie down points. See that the machine has not shifted position since initially securing. Drive slowly and carefully to your destination.

If you find you have questions when loading or transporting the machines, you can always refer to the Operator’s Manual affixed to the machine, our online safety videos, or call your rental center for assistance. As always, Barreto Manufacturing, Inc. is happy to answer any questions you may have. Happy towing!