Terry’s Auto Body Wants You Driving Safe This Holiday Season

It’s the most wonderful time of the year—the time when the weather outside is frightful, city sidewalks are dressed in holiday style, and sleigh bells ring. The holiday season has arrived!

Something else that has arrived with the holiday season is holiday shopping. For many, that means one (or several) trips to your local mall or department store, in search of the perfect gift for everyone on your list. With plenty of people to buy for and not enough hours in the day, it is understandable to become flustered. But just because the holiday errands you run can occasionally lead to stress and frustration, that shouldn’t mean that the quality of your driving has to be sacrificed.

Luckily, many new vehicles today feature plenty of safety features. Here are a few of our favorites that make holiday driving as safe as possible!

Backup Cameras

Sometimes, finding the perfect parking spot at the mall doesn’t necessarily mean backing out of it will be a breeze—especially when you have three other people waiting to claim that spot for their own holiday shopping! Backup cameras can help holiday drivers be aware of all possible obstacles surrounding them in a crowded parking lot.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration all vehicles over 10,000 pounds will be required to have backup cameras by 2018.

Parallel Assist

Are you a parallel parking expert, or does it take you a few tries to successful enter a parking spot? No matter what your skill level, cars that feature parallel assist give you extra protection to make sure you are parking correctly and don’t damage surrounding vehicles!

Forward Collision Warning Systems

A forward collision warning system scans the road ahead using radar beams, laser beams, or cameras. When the system determines that the vehicle is closing on an object at an unsafe speed, it alerts the driver and either readies the braking system for full braking power, or automatically brakes the car.

 

While these are all exceptional safety features that we highly recommend you use, we also know that these only work when you are driving safely. From all of us at Terry’s Auto Body, have a safe and happy Holiday season!

Tips to Use a Trailer Safely

Trailers are an excellent way to haul extra equipment if you do not have the space inside your vehicle. From utility trailers to moving units, they are a convenient solution for moving, recreation, travel or for contractors, businesses or events.  Understanding how to properly load and use a trailer is crucial to the safety of both the individuals in the hauling vehicle, and others with whom you share the road.  Here are eight tips to help you safely use a trailer: 

Weight distribution for your trailer.

•   Load Front First – Unless otherwise noted by the trailer manufacturer, load the heaviest items to the front of the trailer. This will make the unit more stable when on the road. Load 60 percent of the weight to the front of the trailer.
•   Tie down items – Regardless of whether you are using an open trailer or closed unit, it is crucial to tie down any loose items. Items can shift, causing the weight to redistribute, creating a potentially hazardous driving condition.
•   Slow down – Drive at a slower rate of speed when you are hauling a trailer.  It is also not recommended that you exceed 55 miles per hour.
•   Don’t tailgate – Towing a trailer adds extra weight to your vehicle. This increases the amount of distance you will require to come to a full and complete stop.  It recommended you leave at least 4-5 seconds of stopping distance between you and any vehicles you are following.
•   Watch braking – If the trailer starts to sway, remove your foot from the gas but do not brake or speed up. Let your vehicle slow down on its own.
•   Pass with care – Remember that the trailer will add more length to your vehicle. Be sure to allow more passing space and do so carefully.
•   Check gears – When traveling in hilly areas, use the same gear to ascend the hill as you do descending. This will help to control your speed as you start down the hill.
•   Wider turns – Turning a corner with a trailer will require a bit more room.  Pull up into the intersection a bit more and take the turn wider than you normally would to avoid hitting a curb.

Incorrect and correct way to load your trailer.

Do you have questions on how to properly use a trailer? Contact the experts at Terry’s Auto Body and Trailer Sales today! We are happy to service trailers and provide you with flat decks, dumps, car hauler and much more. Visit our website to learn more.

What Is Triple Towing, and Is It Legal?

Triple towing occurs when two trailers are pulled behind a vehicle. Triple towing is legal in some states, but not all. Before planning a trip pulling two trailers, it’s important to take a look at the laws of each state on your route. Not all states that allow triple towing are contiguous, which can make planning a long-distance road trip with two trailers a challenge.

First, let’s take a look at a couple of examples of triple towing:

• A family wants to take a long-distance road trip to a national park, camping along the way. Behind their regular vehicle, they wish to tow a camper and a trailer with an ATV and their bicycles on it.  
• A retired couple plans to spend part of the year in Florida. They have an RV that they park each night as they travel, and live out of during their winter months. They want to tow their regular vehicle behind the RV, as well as a trailer carrying their aluminum fishing boat.

Some states allow triple towing because they have many long, relatively flat roads and require great travel distances. Alaska is a good example, with seasonal changes making towing small planes and boats, snowmobiles, and ATVs quite common. Other states that allow triple towing include North and South Dakota, Texas, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah. For a full list, see here.

However, even states that allow triple towing may have additional stipulations for length and the kinds of trailers you can combine. For more information, visit Woodall’s Rules of the Road for the US and Canada, and contact the Department of Transportation in each state you wish to triple tow through.    

Why is triple towing illegal in some states? The federal entity, the U.S. Department of Transportation, has left it up to each state to decide the legality of triple towing, regardless of whether it occurs on a state’s local highways or interstates. Recreational triple towing is different from commercial towing, which tends to use a uniform braking system for trailers. By contrast, recreational towing for personal use will almost invariably combine different brake systems from tow vehicle to trailer, with a third trailer potentially not even having brakes.

Drivers who are new to triple towing should consider their route carefully. Backing up, parking, and turning are challenging, if not sometimes impossible, with triple towing. Likewise, it will be more difficult to come to a quick stop. 

Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales has been proudly serving Iowa’s Riceville and McIntire areas for the past 30 years. We sell trailers, haulers, and trailer parts, including cargo, flatdeck, and snowmobile trailers. We also service trailers with brake repair, axle replacement, wiring and electrical repair, and tire and wheel replacement. Visit our site or call (641) 985-2536 to learn more!

Trailer Wheel Bearings

Have you ever noticed a trailer stuck on the side of the road? Chances are, there was an issue with the trailer’s wheel bearings. Changing bearings is a job that is easy, but often neglected. Trailer bearings are an important component in successful towing and should be maintained for safety and functionality. Before your next trip, make sure the job is done and the bearings have been changed on your trailer.  

Bearings are essential to keep dust and water out.
Photo via ISTOCKPHOTO

Prior to taking the wheel, here’s what you should know about trailer bearings!

Importance of properly maintained wheel bearings: No parts are more critical for a trailer than the bearings. The center part of a wheel is called the hub, which works smoothly due to the bearings inside. Trailer wheel bearings ensure that your trailer performs reliably. They help provide a smooth towing ride and prevent friction from slowing you down.

How does wheel assembly and bearings work: While trailer bearings are small, they play a big role in your trailer. Bearings are made of two parts, the cup that is attached to the hub and the cone containing steel ball rollers. The steel balls allow the hub to roll around the axle instead of rubbing against it. This creates a smoother ride without rocking and rattling.

Replacing trailer bearings: Trailer bearings should be inspected or replaced every 12 months or 12,000 miles. To replace them, find the right size and type of bearings for your trailer’s wheel hub. Remove the lugs, nuts, tire, wheel hub and central spindle to access the wheel bearing. Clean the parts, reassemble with the new wheel bearing and add fresh grease to keep the trailer rolling along smoothly.

If you have any questions about your trailer or trailer parts including the bearings, contact Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales. In addition to selling, replacing and repairing trailer bearings, we also provide a range of other trailer services including brake repair, wiring and light repair, welding, new tire and wheel replacement, axle replacement, seal replacement and more.

If you have a question about your trailer, please contact Terry’s Autobody and Trailer Sales at 641-985-2536.

Choosing the Right Trailer

Are you thinking of buying a trailer, but don’t know where to start? Flatdeck, dump, utility, and haulers are just some of many different kinds of trailers. Depending on what you plan to use your trailer for can help you narrow down the search. At Terry’s Autobody & Trailer Sales, we sell PJ Trailers and American Hauler trailer brands. Both are established, trusted trailer manufacturers. After choosing a manufacturer, you can narrow your search further by determining which factors suit your needs. Here are two of the most important criteria when it comes to choosing a trailer:

Open or Enclosed Trailers

Two big differences in utility and cargo trailers are whether they are open or enclosed. An open trailer is one which exposes the cargo to the outside elements. If weather isn't a factor for your cargo, then an open trailer may be the most economical choice, since they are cheaper than enclosed trailers. If you live in a climate with that sees a lot of rain, high winds, or harsh winter weather, an enclosed trailer is for you. Enclosed trailers also offer better security with the ability to lock up your cargo rather than leaving it exposed. Enclosed trailers are more expensive to purchase than open trailers, and they’re also heavier and less aerodynamic, meaning it will lessen the fuel economy of whichever vehicle is towing the trailer.

Enclosed Trailer

Open Trailer

 Single or Tandem Axle

Once you've decided on an open or enclosed trailer, it’s time to decide whether the trailer should have a single axle, dual axle, or possibly even more. Single axle trailers have just one load-bearing axle and are used on the smallest trailers. Any load exceeding 3,000 lbs should be hauled on a dual axle. Of course, dual axle trailers are more expensive than single axle trailers, but in addition to handling a heavier load, they also tend to track more accurately over varying road surfaces.

Single Axle

Tandem Axle

 If you’re still unsure which type of trailer is the right one for you, come to Terry’s Autobody & Trailer Sales! We’ll be happy to match you with the PJ Trailers or American Hauler trailer to suit your needs. Stop on by or contact us today!

Driving Tips for a Safe Summer

It’s only a month before school is out, drivers are rushing to get to their weekend getaways and road construction is in full-force.  Summer driving is here!  The dangers of driving in summer are just as hazardous, but less obvious, than the dangers of driving in winter.  In fact, the Department of Transportation reports that summer is the most dangerous driving season of them all.

Before you hit the road this summer, take a look at our tips for safe driving:

Be Cautious – When warm weather arrives, you can expect to see an increase in motorcycles and bicycles on the road.  The most important thing to do is to pay attention to cyclists and give them plenty of space.  You should also be cautious of stop-and-go traffic in construction zones and rush hour.  If possible, anticipate heavy traffic and choose a different route with less traffic.

Manage the Heat – No matter the season, your car should always be packed with emergency essentials. When disaster strikes, travel gear and supplies can make a huge difference in your safety. Good emergency supplies to have in your car include a flashlight with extra batteries, booster cables, first aid kit, bottled water and non-perishable food.  It’s always a good idea to keep sunglasses and water at within arm’s reach.

Summer Storms – Summer storms are dangerous and deadly.  If possible, avoid driving in strong winds, heavy rain, hail and lightning.  If you must drive during a storm, be cautious and drive slower.  Rain can loosen grease, creating a slippery surface for wheels. In addition, rain can be particularly dangerous when water pools on top of pavement and causes hydroplaning.

Proper Trailer Techniques – Are you hauling a boat or recreational vehicle for some summer fun?  Driving a vehicle with a trailer hitched behind you is very different than driving a car alone.  Be sure to follow the proper rules and regulations enforced by the Department of Transportation.  You can find a complete list of Iowa DOT trailer regulations here: http://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/dlmanual/section7.pdf

If you are in need of a new trailer or service to your old trailer, stop into Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales!  We can help get your trailer prepared for a busy summer season.  Any questions?  Give us a call at 641-985-2536.

Prepare For The Road With DOT Trailer Regulations

Before you hit the road with your trailer in tow, there are a number of regulations you must follow for your trailer to be road ready.  Driving a vehicle with a trailer hitched behind you is a very different experience than driving a car alone.  The extra weight and added length makes controlling and handling much more difficult.  For this reason, driving with a trailer requires extra attention to detail, a heightened sense of safety and fully functioning gear.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) and Motor Vehicle Enforcement (MVE) have regulations in place for the safety of you and those around you.  Before you start driving, make sure you are prepared with the right equipment and vehicle adjustments. 

Hitch:  A trailer hitch attaches directly to a tow vehicle providing the connection between the vehicle and the trailer.  As a key component of towing, the hitch should be tightly fastened to the rear axle of the towing vehicle.  A properly loaded trailer should have about 15% of the total trailer weight on the hitch.  If you have too much weight on the hitch, the trailer will be more likely to sway back and forth while you are pulling it.

Trailer Control:  Whenever possible, you should use the smallest and lightest trailer to carry your load.  The heavier your trailer, the more time you will need to effectively stop.  It’s also important to note that the faster you go, the less control you will have over your trailer.

Equipment:  When towing another vehicle, there is required equipment needed to ensure safety.  If your trailer and load weighs more than 3,000 pounds, it must have brakes on all axles.  Safety chains must also be used to connect the trailer to the towing vehicle.  In addition, there must be efficient lighting.  Clearance lights must be mounted on the widest part of the trailer, reflectors should be in the front, rear lights must be red, and a white light must illuminate the license plate.

Whether you need a trailer to haul your cargo or parts to fix your malfunctioning trailer, Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales offers a wide range of items from name brands including PJ Trailers, American Hauler, RR RoadRunner Manufacturing and Zimmerman Trailers.  For all of your trailer needs, contact the professionals at Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales by calling 641-985-2536.