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Old 06-21-2020, 05:24 AM   #1
Erutledge7
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2019 hideout175 lhs

Hi everyone!
Brand new here. I have a ram 1500 quad cab. I am picking up my 21 ft trailer this week. I have never towed anything. Any tips would be greatly appreciative! I’m guessing the first site I want to rent is a pull through site? I’m having extra brakes installed and looking to get a camera.
Thanks,
Nervous Nancy
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Old 06-21-2020, 07:03 AM   #2
chuckster57
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Welcome to the forum

"extra brakes"? Do you mean a brake controller for the trailer? Are you using any kind of weight distribution or sway control?

Pull through or back in, Your choice but your probably going to have t back it in somewhere at some point so might as learn now,
__________________

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Now an RVIA registered tech. Retired from Law enforcement in 2008 after 25+ yrs.
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Old 06-21-2020, 07:17 AM   #3
sourdough
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Welcome to the world of RVing!

I know it sort of seems daunting but don't worry. I had the benefit of learning to tow with all sorts of flatbed trailers, hay and cotton trailers and then boat trailers so the transition to an RV was different but not ALL new.

What kind of new brakes are you having installed? I am assuming you are talking about a brake controller for the Ram? Unless specifically equipped (I believe some 1/2 tons today are) you will need to add that for braking the trailer. Other than that the truck and trailer should both have adequate brakes.
If it is the brake controller do you know what kind? There is a big difference in the units IMO. I liked my Tekonsha Prodigy P3. Learn how to use it and set it up and it will make a world of difference in controlling your stopping power.

Although the trailer isn't huge, it is still 4400lbs. and over 25' long so you will need to control it going down the highway. Make sure you have a good weight distribution hitch with "built in" sway control. Having used lesser units I found that the 4 point Equalizer was great.

If you have a way, take the trailer out and try backing it, turning it etc. Might put up some cones or other markers so you can get a feel for how it tracks and turns; you definitely have to keep in mind that it will take a different path than your truck.

When you pick up your trailer advise them you want to go through it; learn all the features, how everything operates (and that the actually DO operate), where everything is located etc. Here is a link to a good pre delivery inspection you can use to go through the trailer with the technician assigned to do so. If the individual tells you "I don't know" on anything, or guesses, advise you would like someone familiar with the product to guide you.

http://www.angelfire.com/trek/buenav...PDI_V113_2.pdf

It probably seems a little overwhelming, and it is if it's the first time to take off with a trailer, but look those things over, post back with additional thoughts and questions and we will do our best to help you out.
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Old 06-21-2020, 08:11 AM   #4
Erutledge7
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Yes brake controller sorry
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