Whether you have a boat trailer, camper trailer or one of the many utility type trailers, the backing up of all trailers is the same.The main step is the set-up. Getting the trailer the right distance past and out from the drive or parking space, and also getting yourself in place so the area you want to back into is on your left side, makes backing up a lot easier. If you can get set up so you can back straight in, all the better.
Depending on the size of the unit, trailer and auto combo, you will need to be from one foot to eight feet past and out from the spot. When pulling a trailer you have to remember, at all times, you have a tail. Backing up and going forward, you will have to have swinging room. This gets easier the more you do it with the same trailer.
When backing up, you must turn the steering wheel the other way from the way you want the trailer to go. If you want the trailer to go to your left, turn the steering wheel to the right.
Also, the shorter the trailer the faster it will come around on you, and the less room you will need. If you have a long trailer, you will need more swinging room. So, when backing up, go slow until you learn how fast the trailer will react to the movement of the steering wheel and how far the front of the trailer will swing out.
After you get set up, look out your window and watch the rear end of the trailer for swinging room, and watch the trailer tires to know when to get back under the trailer or to get straight again. As the trailer moves into the place you want it, you will be turning the steering wheel back the other way, to, what is called "stay under it" or straighten up.
Until you get the hang of backing up a trailer you may have to do a pull up for a few feet to get a better alignment. Do not let the trailer cut too much because you could back over it with your vehicle, not good. Also, the trailer tires may roll off of their wheels. Again not good.
Just remember be safe and look around before backing up.
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