How to attach a trailer
New to towing, or just want to double-check? Here's how to hitch up safely with TrailerMates, plus quick checklists to run before and after so nothing gets missed.
Important: this guide is general information, not professional advice. Towing carries real risk if it's done wrong. Always follow the road rules, your vehicle maker's towing limits, and your hire terms. If you're unsure about any step, stop and call us on 0420 399 277 before you drive. You're responsible for towing safely, and by using this guide you accept that responsibility.
Before you hook up
Hitching up, step by step
Check your car can tow
Confirm your vehicle's tow rating (owner's manual or compliance plate) covers the trailer's weight, braked and unbraked. Most utes and SUVs are fine; some small cars and EVs aren't rated to tow at all.
Have the right gear
You need a professionally fitted tow bar, plus a tow tongue and tow ball. Fit the ball to the tongue, slot the tongue into the tow bar, and lock it with the safety pin, then secure the pin with the R-clip. Our trailers come with the matching gear.
Line up and lower on
Back up so your tow ball sits directly under the trailer's coupling (grab a spotter if you've no reverse camera). Wind the coupling down onto the ball with the jockey wheel. Move slowly so you don't damage the trailer or your car.
[PHOTO: your trailer coupling being lowered onto the tow ball]Lock the coupling
Flip or twist the coupling handle to lock it onto the ball, then give it a firm wobble to be sure it's properly on. This is what keeps the trailer attached, so don't rush it.
[PHOTO: the coupling handle locked down on your trailer]Stow the jockey wheel
Wind the jockey wheel up and swing or clip it out of the way so it can't drag while you drive.
Cross and connect the safety chains
Cross the chains under the coupling first, so they cradle it if it ever drops, then loop them through the holes each side of your tow bar and do them up firmly. Never skip this. The chains are your backup if the trailer comes off.
[PHOTO: safety chains crossed under the coupling on your trailer]Clip on the breakaway cable (braked trailers)
Our tippers and car trailer have electric brakes, so clip the breakaway cable to a solid point on your car, the tow bar or chassis, not the chains. Leave enough slack to turn, but not so much it drags. If it ever comes off, this pulls a pin and applies the trailer brakes. How the electric brakes work →
Plug in the lights
Plug the trailer's 7-pin flat lead into your car's socket. If your socket is a different type, you'll have picked the right adapter at checkout, so it's ready to go.
[PHOTO: the 7-pin plug going into a tow vehicle socket]Check every light
With a helper, check the brake lights, indicators and number-plate light all work, plus clearance lights if fitted. A trailer isn't roadworthy with a dud light, and it's an easy fine.
[PHOTO: trailer tail lights lit up]