Author: dev

Towing a trailer changes everything about how your vehicle handles. Braking distances stretch, turning radius widens, and a single overlooked detail can cause a dangerous incident on the road. Whether you’re hauling a box trailer to a job site, loading up a horse float for the weekend, or moving equipment on plant trailers, following a solid trailer towing checklist before every departure is essential.

Here’s what to go through before you pull out of the driveway.

How Towing Differs From a Normal Drive

Towing demands more attention than a regular drive.

Your combined vehicle and trailer weight significantly increases braking distance, sometimes by 50% or more, depending on load. Trailer sway can develop quickly at highway speeds if trailer weight distribution or tyre pressure is off. Reversing requires the opposite steering input. And your mirrors (without proper tow mirrors) may leave large blind spots on either side of the trailer.

None of these is a reason to avoid towing. But they are reasons to check your setup thoroughly before you go.

Your Pre-Trip Trailer Inspection Checklist

The Tow Vehicle

• Towing capacity: Confirm your vehicle’s tow rating covers the Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) of your loaded trailer. Exceeding this rating puts stress on your drivetrain, brakes, and transmission, and voids your insurance in the event of a crash.
• Tyres: Check pressure on all four wheels (cold, before driving). Soft tyres under extra towing load increase heat buildup and the risk of a blowout.
• Brakes and suspension: Brakes that are fine solo may feel inadequate when hauling serious weight. If they’re due for service, have it done before the trip. Check that suspension isn’t visibly sagging under the trailer’s nose weight.
• Fluids and fuel: Top up coolant, brake fluid, and engine oil. Towing generates more heat under the bonnet.
• Mirrors: Ensure you have adequate rear vision on both sides of the trailer. Extension mirrors are legally required in most states if the trailer is wider than your vehicle.

The Trailer

• Hitch and coupler: The coupler should lock fully onto the hitch ball with no lateral movement. The hitch pin and retaining clip must be secure.
• Safety chains: Cross the chains in an X pattern under the trailer tongue and attach them to the chain attachment points on the vehicle’s tow bar. Leave enough slack for turning, but not so much that they drag.
• Lights and wiring: Plug in and test all trailer lights: brake lights, indicators, tail lights, and reverse lights. Check the plug connection for corrosion or damage. A faulty light is both illegal and a serious safety issue for vehicles behind you.
• Tyres: Check pressure and inspect for cracks, uneven wear, embedded debris, or other issues. Don’t forget the spare if your trailer carries one.
• Wheel nuts: Torque wheel nuts to the manufacturer’s specification. New trailers and those with recently removed wheels require retorquing after the first 50–100km.
• Load security: Secure your load with rated tie-down straps and check that weight is distributed forward of the axle. Unsecured loads pose a significant legal liability and a hazard to other drivers on the road.
• Breakaway system: If your trailer has electric brakes, confirm the breakaway cable is attached to the tow vehicle and the battery in the breakaway box is charged.

Tools and Spares to Keep On Board

• Tyre pressure gauge
• Rated tie-down straps (extras are always useful)
• Wheel brace and jack compatible with your trailer
• Spare wheel (if applicable)
• Spare globe kit for trailer lights
• Tow hitch pin and safety clip (spare)

Make Maintenance Part of the Routine

A pre-trip trailer inspection works best as part of a broader trailer maintenance habit. Wheel bearings, brake pads, and structural components need periodic inspection. Not just before big trips, but on a regular service schedule.

At Coastmac, we stock a wide range of trailers for sale across box trailers, plant and machinery trailers, car trailers, horse floats, and more, built to Australian standards and backed by after-sales support. If you’re not sure whether your current setup is road-ready, our team can help you assess it.

Trailer wheel bearings cop a beating. Dust, moisture, and road grime constantly attack these critical components, and many trailer owners spend hours each year repacking conventional bearings. As a result, standard bearings are often the ‘weakest link’ in trailer design, and a common cause of trailer down time.

The benefits of enclosed bearings include eliminating this maintenance, providing superior protection against contaminants, and extending bearing life significantly – often outlasting traditional bearings by years in harsh Australian conditions.

Quick Answers

• Maintenance-free operation: Pre-lubricated for life, no regular greasing required
• Superior contamination protection: Integrated seals block dust, dirt, and moisture
• Extended lifespan: Often last 100,000+ kilometres without servicing
• Reduced downtime: Less frequent bearing failures and roadside emergencies
• Corrosion resistance: Particularly valuable for trailers used in wet conditions or coastal environments.

In summary, enclosed bearings are a higher quality option than traditional tapered roller bearings.

What Are Enclosed Bearings?

Enclosed bearings (also called sealed bearings) feature integrated rubber or synthetic seals that completely encase the bearing’s internal components. Unlike traditional tapered roller bearings that require periodic disassembly and regreasing, enclosed bearings come pre-packed with high-quality grease from the factory. The seals create a protective barrier that locks lubricant inside whilst keeping contaminants out. According to bearing manufacturers, sealed bearings excel at keeping out dirt, dust, and moisture, with integrated seals acting as barriers that significantly reduce contamination ingress compared to open or even shielded bearings.

You can easily see these differences in the following graphics. Here’s a picture of a traditional tapered roller bearing system:

And here’s a picture of an enclosed bearing system where everything is sealed and protected:

Key Benefits of Enclosed Bearings for Trailers

1. Contamination Protection

The primary benefit of enclosed bearings for trailers is their exceptional ability to block environmental contaminants. The sealing mechanism helps prevent dust, dirt, moisture, and other contaminants from entering the bearing.

2. Reduced Maintenance Requirements

Traditional tapered roller bearings require repacking every 10,000–20,000 kilometres (or annually). Enclosed bearings eliminate this task entirely. Sealed bearings are generally maintenance-free, as users don’t need to periodically add grease since the factory-filled lubricant typically lasts for the bearing’s service life. This translates to fewer servicing appointments, reduced labour costs, and more time using your trailer rather than maintaining it.

3. Extended Bearing Life

The combination of contamination protection and consistent lubrication means enclosed bearings often outlast conventional bearings substantially. By preventing contaminant entry and maintaining lubrication where it’s needed, sealed bearings often last longer than open or shielded bearings under the same conditions, with less dirt and optimal lubrication resulting in slower wear and fewer failures.

When Should You Choose Enclosed Bearings for Trailers?

Enclosed bearings for trailers make most sense when:

• You regularly use your trailer in dusty environments – Construction sites, beaches, and unpaved roads accelerate bearing contamination
• Your trailer will be exposed to water – Wet environments and saltwater exposure are particularly damaging to traditional bearings
• You want to minimise maintenance – If you prefer set-and-forget components rather than regular servicing
• You do high-mileage towing – The longevity benefits become more valuable with frequent use

However, enclosed bearings typically cost more upfront and require specialised tools or professional installation if they fail. Traditional tapered roller bearings are still widely used  in trailers sold in Australia because they’re cheaper and easily serviceable roadside with basic tools.

The Trade-Off to Consider

It’s worth noting that while the benefits of enclosed bearings are substantial, there are some trade-offs. . If a sealed bearing does fail, you generally can’t service it – you must replace the entire unit. This unit will probably be more expensive than a standard  spare bearing set.  In remote locations, standard spare bearing sets may also be more readily available than sealed units.

Our Recommendation

At Coastmac, we believe that enclosed bearings are the best option in most cases and are now incorporating this feature into several of our trailer models. (As of January 2026, this includes all new Coastmac box trailers, and all mechanically braked plant trailers with an ATM of 3t and above.) In addition, all of our Brian James trailers utilise sealed bearings as a standard feature.

If you would like more information about the best option for your needs, please reach out to us! Whether you have questions about aluminium vs steel trailers or are looking to reduce trailer sway for safer towing, our team is always happy to help you choose the best option for your usage patterns and environment.

If you’ve ever felt your trailer shift or wobble behind your vehicle, you know it can be stressful and even dangerous. Trailer sway is a common challenge for drivers hauling heavy loads, especially cars. Knowing how to reduce trailer sway is key to maintaining control, protecting your vehicle, and ensuring a smoother journey.

Let’s break down the main causes of sway and how to prevent it effectively.

What Causes Trailer Sway?

Sway typically happens when your load is unbalanced or when external factors like wind or road surface push against the trailer. It can also be triggered by sudden manoeuvres, braking too hard, or driving at high speeds. Many drivers overlook their vehicle’s limits, which is why checking what the towing capacity is before setting out is so important.

Too much weight, or poorly distributed weight, can put unnecessary pressure on the rear of your tow vehicle and increase the chance of sway. To prevent this, start with the right load setup and ensure your trailer and vehicle are properly matched.

Distribute Your Load the Right Way

Weight placement has a big impact on sway. Ideally, about 60% of your load should sit forward of the trailer’s axle. This helps shift the centre of gravity toward your vehicle, improving overall stability. Items packed too far back can cause a pendulum effect and lead to swaying.

Check your trailer weight in kg before hitting the road. If the trailer is overloaded or poorly packed, not only does it create safety risks but it may also breach towing regulations. Public weighbridges or portable trailer scales are useful tools for this.

Use a Weight Distribution Hitch for Sway Control

One of the most effective tools to reduce sway is a weight distribution hitch for trailer sway. This type of hitch spreads the trailer’s weight more evenly across all axles, preventing the rear of your vehicle from sagging and the trailer from bouncing.

It also helps keep the trailer and vehicle level, which improves braking, handling, and steering. Adding sway control bars can provide even more stability by reducing side-to-side motion. These setups are especially useful for longer or heavier trailers.

Adjust Your Speed and Driving Style

When towing, driving habits matter just as much as equipment. Stick to the towing speed limit in your state or territory. Even if the limit allows for 100 km/h, reducing your speed slightly can improve stability and control.

Avoid sudden movements. Accelerate slowly, brake smoothly, and steer gently. Sharp corrections or hard braking can make sway worse. If you feel the trailer starting to shift, ease off the accelerator and allow it to settle naturally.

Maintain Tyres and Suspension

Worn tyres or poor suspension can increase sway. Always check your tyre pressure before towing, both on the trailer and your vehicle. Uneven or underinflated tyres can cause the trailer to handle unpredictably.

Make sure your suspension system is in good shape, especially if you’re towing regularly. Upgraded shocks or leaf springs can improve ride quality and towing safety.

Know Your Load

Certain types of load, like low-slung sports cars, require more precise placement and secure tie-downs. When loading low clearance cars on a trailer, position them just forward of the trailer axle and use ratchet straps to hold them firmly in place.

A shifting load can make sway worse, even with a balanced trailer. Always double-check the security of the cargo before starting your trip, especially if your trailer has ramps, tools, or other gear onboard.

Monitor Trailer Performance On the Road

Pay attention to your trailer’s behaviour while driving. If you notice sway starting to build, resist the urge to counter-steer or hit the brakes. Instead, lift your foot off the accelerator and maintain a firm grip on the wheel until the sway subsides.

Frequent mirror checks can help you spot minor movement early. If your trailer continues to sway despite correct setup, it might be time to inspect your alignment or upgrade to a trailer with improved suspension.

Quick Checklist to Prevent Sway

Before each trip, run through this quick checklist:

• Confirm your vehicle’s towing capacity
• Weigh the trailer fully loaded
• Pack 60% of the load ahead of the axle
• Use a weight distribution hitch if needed
• Check all tyre pressures
• Secure your load with quality tie-downs
• Stick to safe speeds

Each of these steps will help you maintain control and avoid preventable sway incidents.

Haul With Confidence

Learning how to reduce trailer sway is an important part of safe towing. From properly placed loads to helpful hardware like sway control bars and hitches, a balanced setup makes all the difference.

At Coastmac, we design trailers with stability and safety in mind. Whether you’re towing a car, tools, or machinery, we’ll help you find the right trailer and towing gear for your needs.

Need help fine-tuning your setup or selecting the right trailer? Our team is here to offer practical advice backed by decades of experience. Let’s get you towing safely and smoothly.

Loading low-clearance cars onto a trailer can be tricky. It can be risky without the right setup. Scraped bumpers, underbody damage and misaligned ramps are common when the gear doesn’t match the job. If you’re focused on loading low clearance cars on trailer setups, the tools and trailer design you choose will make all the difference.

Here’s what helps make the job easier, safer and less stressful.

Why Clearance Matters

Low-slung vehicles need more than just a standard ramp. The approach angle, which is the angle between the ramp and trailer deck, must be shallow enough to avoid bottoming out. Even a slight bump in ramp height or trailer angle can create serious clearance issues.

To avoid this, you need the right ramp length, materials and trailer height. If your trailer sits high or your car rides low, longer ramps or tilt deck trailers are usually the answer. The tools you choose will depend on your setup. Lightweight alloy ramps, soft load mats and adjustable ramp stands can also help reduce sudden height transitions.

What Tools Make Loading Low Cars Easier?

The right tools make all the difference. If you’re wondering what tools make loading low cars easier, start with this short list:

• Longer ramps to reduce the approach angle and avoid scraping
• Ramp extensions or wedge blocks for a smoother transition
• Hydraulic tilt trailers that lower the bed close to the ground
• Winches for safe, controlled loading without using the throttle
  

Professionals often carry multiple options to suit different vehicles. Even simple additions like rubber mats or spacing blocks can improve clearance and help protect your car. Custom wheel guides or side rail extensions are another good way to control alignment while loading.

Set Up for Success

Your trailer setup matters as much as the tools you use. To ensure smooth loading:

• Load on flat, stable ground
• Align the ramps carefully with the wheels
• Have a spotter guide you during approach
• Drive slowly and check clearance as you go

You may also want to slightly deflate the tyres for extra clearance during the load. Once the car is secured, reinflate the tyres before hitting the road. This is particularly useful for ultra-low vehicles or track builds.

Check What the Towing Capacity is Before You Load

Before you load up, make sure your vehicle can legally and safely handle the weight. Understanding what the towing capacity is of your car or ute is essential.

A low-clearance car might not seem heavy, but once you add the trailer, fuel, gear and loading equipment, the total weight adds up quickly. Overloading can cause serious issues including drivetrain damage, compromised braking and excessive wear on tyres and suspension.

Consider the Towing Speed Limit When Carrying Low Cars

Towing a low-clearance vehicle is about control and stability. In Australia, the towing speed limit is usually 100 km/h. However, speed should always match conditions. Slowing down slightly when towing a low car can reduce trailer bounce and protect the car from unnecessary movement or stress.

Driving too fast can amplify sway, especially when the car is sitting close to the rear of the trailer. If you’re driving through hilly terrain or crosswinds, take it even slower for safety.

Keep Track of Your Trailer Weight to Stay Compliant

Knowing your trailer weight in kg is essential for safety and legal compliance. Overloading your trailer can cause suspension damage, braking problems and insurance issues. When carrying low-clearance cars, consider all extras such as winches, tools, ramps and fuel.

Be sure to weigh your trailer once loaded to confirm it stays under your Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) and Gross Trailer Mass (GTM). Portable weigh pads or public weighbridges can help with this if you’re unsure.

How to Reduce Trailer Sway When Hauling Low-Clearance Vehicles

Low cars often sit further back on a trailer, which affects balance. Learning how to reduce trailer sway can help keep your setup steady.

Tips to prevent sway include:

• Placing most of the load slightly forward of the axle
• Keeping tyres properly inflated
• Using sway bars or weight distribution hitches
• Avoiding sharp braking or sudden lane changes

Proper sway control is not just about comfort. It protects the car you’re towing, helps maintain control of your vehicle and reduces fatigue on long trips.

Ready To Transport Low Cars Safely?

Getting a low-clearance car on and off a trailer safely is all about preparation. It is not just ramps and straps. It is also about knowing your tow limits, monitoring weight and keeping everything balanced.

From longer ramps and adjustable trailers to weight checks and sway control, every detail plays a part in safer towing. At Coastmac, we stock trailers that suit all kinds of cars, including low-slung sports vehicles. We’ll help you find the right tools and provide expert advice to ensure your towing experience is safe, simple and stress-free.

Have questions about your setup or trailer needs? Get in touch. We are always happy to help.

When you’re shopping for a car trailer, it’s easy to focus on size, towing specs or price. But what about keeping your trailer and vehicle safe? Weather damage and theft can turn your investment into a headache fast. If you’re planning to transport vehicles regularly, your setup needs to offer more than just load capacity. It should also protect against the elements and deter unwanted access.

Let’s take a closer look at how to protect your car trailer from theft and how you can build a safer, more reliable rig.

Car Trailer Theft Protection Matters More than You Think

Leaving your trailer unattended, even for a short time, carries risk. Opportunistic thefts are more common than many people realise. Whether you’re towing between jobs, parked on the street or storing your trailer at home, it’s worth taking theft prevention seriously.

A strong car trailer theft protection setup includes:

• Wheel clamps or hitch locks
• Lockable toolboxes or enclosed compartments
• GPS tracking devices
• Alarm systems

Even visual deterrents like heavy-duty chains and branded locks can put thieves off. Combine multiple security measures to make theft more difficult and time-consuming.

How to Protect your Car Trailer from Theft

Prevention starts with where and how you store your trailer. Avoid leaving it in isolated or poorly lit areas. Use a secure fence, bollard or post where possible.

Other ways to improve trailer security include:

• Parking with the hitch facing a wall or barrier
• Removing wheels if storing long term
• Etching your ID or registration into the frame
• Using a tamper-proof locking system

If you’re unsure how to get started, check your insurer’s guidelines. They often recommend specific devices or steps that can reduce premiums and increase claim success rates. Knowing exactly how to protect your car trailer from theft is the first step in keeping your investment safe.

Car Trailer Locks and Security Features

Choosing the right car trailer locks and security accessories can make a big difference. Aim for components that are rated for trailer use and weather-resistant. Cheaper locks often fail in outdoor environments, especially after exposure to water or dust.

Look for:

• Stainless steel locks with anti-drill protection
• Coupling locks that fully enclose the hitch
• Lockable spare wheel mounts
• Enclosed trailer options with full perimeter locks

A trailer that’s built for security from day one gives you peace of mind. It also adds value if you decide to sell later.

Understanding Weight and Towing Limits

Your trailer’s specs are closely tied to safety. Knowing what is the towing capacity of your vehicle helps ensure you’re not overloading. Overweight trailers can lead to loss of control, mechanical failure or legal issues.

In Australia, the towing speed limit is generally 100 km/h, but that’s a ceiling, not always a safe target. If your trailer is heavy or poorly balanced, you should drive slower, especially on uneven or wet roads.

Always track your trailer weight kg and stay within your Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) and Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) ratings. This includes any added tools, security gear or covers. Exceeding limits affects braking, fuel use and suspension wear.

Loading Low Clearance Cars on Trailer Setups

Security and safety also apply to how you load your vehicle. If you’re transporting a lowered or sports car, standard ramps may not cut it. A properly designed trailer with a gentle ramp angle and minimal entry lip helps avoid scrapes or damage.

Coastmac recommends gear designed specifically for loading low clearance cars on trailer frames, such as tilt beds, longer ramps and removable rails.

How to Reduce Trailer Sway

Trailer sway can put your gear and safety at risk. Common causes include unbalanced loads, incorrect tow ball height or poor suspension. Learning how to reduce trailer sway helps prevent accidents and extends your trailer’s lifespan.

Some proven tips include:

• Position your load just forward of the axle
• Use sway bars and weight distribution hitches
• Inflate tyres to spec
• Avoid stacking too much at the rear of the trailer

Building a Safe and Secure Trailer Setup

Choosing a car trailer is about how well it protects your investment on the road, in storage and against theft or damage. By factoring in weather protection, secure locks, balanced weight and smart loading practices, you’ll have a trailer that works harder and lasts longer.

Need help picking a trailer that covers all bases? Coastmac can walk you through the best security and safety features for your towing needs. From assessing your towing limit to fitting your trailer with the right locks and ramps, we’ll make sure your setup is as safe and secure as possible.

Trying to fit everything onto a small trailer can be a bit of a puzzle. If you’re running a pressure washing setup, hose reels often take up more space than you’d expect. That’s where stacking comes in. But is it actually safe? And does it make sense in a real-world work environment? In this guide, we’ll take a practical look at whether stacking hose reels is a smart move, and what to consider before committing to that layout.

Is It Safe To Stack Hose Reels On A Pressure Washing Trailer?

So, is it safe to stack hose reels on a pressure washing trailer? It can be, but only if the setup is properly thought through. Stacking hose reels raises your trailer’s centre of gravity, which affects balance and handling. A safe configuration requires sturdy mounts, bracing into the trailer frame, and careful weight distribution.

Each reel needs to be secured to a frame that doesn’t flex or shift under pressure. Avoid bolting into thin sheet metal or temporary racking. The more secure your foundation, the less stress you’ll place on the trailer during towing. Make sure the stacked reels remain easy to access and don’t force awkward lifting or unsafe reaches.

This is especially important if you’re working in rough conditions or towing long distances. Proper planning can reduce wear and tear on both your trailer and your equipment.

Trailer Hose Reel Configuration

Your trailer hose reel configuration should be based on how many reels you need and how you use them. Most setups include one high-pressure hose and one feed hose, though larger rigs may need more.

To maximise space and maintain balance:

• Mount heavier reels lower and lighter reels higher
• Keep reels close to or above the axle for better distribution
• Pull hoses in the direction that reduces trailer rocking
• Avoid stacking more than two reels vertically unless professionally engineered

Plan for future maintenance, too. You should be able to reach fittings and swap hoses without dismantling the whole frame.

If you’re already working with a hot water pressure washer trailer setup, space becomes even tighter. Stacking is often the only way to fit everything without increasing trailer length.

Hose Reel Setup For Small Trailer

A strong hose reel setup for small trailer use puts safety and practicality first. When space is tight, vertical stacking frees up floor area for tanks, generators, and gearboxes. The reels should sit in clear reach, without obstructing walkways or access to valves and controls.

Before drilling, mock up your planned layout using cardboard or timber offcuts. It’ll give you a better sense of spacing and balance. Consider whether you can still perform basic tasks – can you wind and unwind hose without hitting anything? Will the top reel be too high to reach comfortably?

Some teams use pivoting mounts or sliding rails to improve access. These small changes make the trailer safer and more efficient, especially on job sites where every minute counts.

Don’t Forget Trailer Weight And Load Balance

Stacked hose reels don’t weigh much individually, but once you add steel frames, brackets and full hoses, the load adds up. Combined with a full tank of water and a pressure washer, your trailer’s weight can climb fast.

If you’re unsure what trailer size you need, check out hauling water trailer size for guidance. Use your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) as your limit, not a suggestion. Overloading affects braking, tyre wear and towing safety.

Position reels and tanks so the load sits slightly forward of the axle. This reduces sway and improves road handling. Regularly check your tyre pressure and suspension to make sure they’re coping with the load.

Smart Use Of Space Without Compromising Safety

Stacking hose reels makes sense on smaller trailers when done right. You save space, improve workflow and make room for other essential tools. But it only works when you’ve planned for balance, strength and ongoing maintenance.

Start with your trailer’s limits. Build your setup with access in mind. Use quality parts and secure mounts. And if in doubt, talk to a trailer specialist.

Coastmac can help you plan a custom trailer layout that suits your pressure washing gear, keeps you safe on the road and makes every job easier.