Introduction
A dolly is an essential tool for anyone who tows trailers and needs to move them around quickly and easily. A dolly is essentially an axle-mounted platform that attaches to the trailer, allowing it to be towed from one location to another without having to unhitch the trailer from the vehicle pulling it. In this article, we will discuss what is a dolly on a trailer, the benefits of using it, the types of dollies available, how to use it safely, and frequently asked questions about using a dolly on a trailer.
What is a Dolly?
A dolly is an axle-mounted platform that attaches to the trailer’s hitch ball or coupler and allows it to be towed from one location to another without having to unhitch the trailer from the vehicle pulling it. The dolly has either two or four wheels depending on its size and can be either manually pushed or pulled by hand or attached to another vehicle with appropriate hitches for easy transportation over short distances (e.g., moving trailers between parking spaces). The most common type of dolly used for trailers has four wheels and requires two people for operation; however, there are also single-person operated models available as well as models designed specifically for heavier loads such as boats and RVs.
Benefits of Using a Dolly on a Trailer
Using a dolly on your trailer provides many benefits including increased safety when moving your trailer over short distances, reduced wear and tear on your tow vehicle due to less strain being placed upon it while moving your trailer, increased maneuverability in tight spaces due to its small size compared with other vehicles used for transporting trailers, and reduced fuel consumption since you don’t need to drive your tow vehicle when you’re only going short distances with your trailer in tow. Additionally, using a dolly can reduce stress levels by making it easier for you move your trailer around without having to worry about backing up or navigating tight turns with your large tow vehicle – something that can be especially helpful if you’re not experienced at driving large vehicles!
Types of Dollies Available
There are several different types of dollies available depending on the size and weight of your trailer. For smaller trailers such as utility trailers or single-axle campers, lightweight manual push/pull models are available that require minimal effort when pushing/pulling them around. For larger trailers such as boat trailers or multiple-axle campers, heavier duty models are available that utilize either hydraulic or electric power systems which provide greater control when maneuvering around tight spaces. Additionally, specialized heavy duty models are also available which feature adjustable wheelbases allowing them to accommodate larger loads such as RVs or fifth wheel campers.
How To Use A Dolly On A Trailer
Using a dolly on a trailer is relatively straightforward but there are some safety considerations that must be taken into account before doing so. First off, make sure that the hitch ball/coupler attached to the back of your tow vehicle matches up properly with the hitch receiver attached at the front of your dolly – this ensures that everything is securely connected before attempting any movement with your loaded trailer in tow. Secondly, always make sure that all four wheels of your loaded dolly remain firmly planted on level ground while in use – never attempt any sharp turns while using a loaded dolly as this could cause instability resulting in potential damage or injury. Finally, never exceed posted speed limits while using a loaded dolly – always drive slowly and cautiously when maneuvering around tight spaces or areas where pedestrians may be present!
Safety Considerations When Using A Dolly On A Trailer
It’s important to remember that even though using a dolly makes moving your loaded trailer much easier than trying to do so without one; you still need take certain safety precautions into consideration before doing so: Make sure all four wheels remain firmly planted on level ground while in use; never attempt any sharp turns while using a loaded dolly; never exceed posted speed limits; always check connections between both vehicles prior to taking off; make sure all lights & brakes are functioning properly prior too & during use; watch out for pedestrians & other traffic in close proximity; & finally never overload any part of either vehicles involved (tow vehicle &/or Dollied Trailer). Failure too abide by these simple rules could result in serious injury &/or property damage!
Conclusion
A Dolly is an essential tool for anyone who tows trailers regularly over short distances and needs an easy way of doing so without having too disconnect their Tow Vehicle every time they need too move their Trailer somewhere else! They come in various sizes & styles depending upon what type of load they’re meant too carry but all offer similar benefits such as increased safety when moving their Trailers over short distances & decreased wear & tear upon their Tow Vehicle due too less strain being placed upon it!