A Simple Secret to Backing Up A Trailer (YUP ANY TRAILER), Like a Pro

Ойын-сауық

The Simple Secret to Backing Up A Trailer, Like a Pro. Backing up a trailer of any size or length can be a challenge. In today's video, Dave (a 4 million miler truck driver) will demonstrate a simple, easy method for backing up a utility trailer, a tractor trailer, a recreational vehicle or any length trailer, with ease.
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Пікірлер: 2 400

  • @SmartTrucking
    @SmartTrucking2 жыл бұрын

    Good Day, Big Strappers. Thanks for checking out today's upload. If you've tried this trick, do you find it works for you? You have any little tricks that help with the backing up process? Love to hear from you.

  • @shergill3633

    @shergill3633

    2 жыл бұрын

    Always avoid blind spot backing if possible.

  • @johnfunk6343

    @johnfunk6343

    2 жыл бұрын

    I have a trainee who is struggling with backing I am goin to try this with them in am to see if it helps

  • @martycech5844

    @martycech5844

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you #SmartTrucking for posting yet another excellent video

  • @controllerforce_50East

    @controllerforce_50East

    2 жыл бұрын

    I hope that you get a lot of views from THOSE that don't understand how to use their steering wheel.🤭

  • @controllerforce_50East

    @controllerforce_50East

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@johnfunk6343 Your training someone to back and needed this video for pointers??😬

  • @franciscotoro9454
    @franciscotoro94542 жыл бұрын

    This has to be one of the most useful, uncluttered and clear instructional videos I have ever seen in KZread. Kudos to you Sir.

  • @SmartTrucking

    @SmartTrucking

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad it was helpful!

  • @big-daddy-o8576
    @big-daddy-o85762 жыл бұрын

    As a fellow CDL holder, I like that you first taught the "walk-around."

  • @richardfowler3254

    @richardfowler3254

    2 жыл бұрын

    With my camping trailer I always do a full walk around and double check before I get in the truck. I check all access doors, make sure no wheel chocks are still in place and check my lights before I go... all of this was great advice, thanks !!

  • @raymondmichielini6021

    @raymondmichielini6021

    2 жыл бұрын

    great video

  • @garytanger6469

    @garytanger6469

    2 жыл бұрын

    D.O... As a past trucker, I agree with you.. Years ago, I brought a mobile radio with me.. The 2nd time the boss backed up, into a blind area, he asked if I would sell it to him, now we have cell phones.. We were trained to keep your hand in the 12 o'clock position..

  • @tonywilliams8426

    @tonywilliams8426

    2 жыл бұрын

    A ttuck in my country had a sloppy dtivet eho did NOT do a walkround. His wagon hit a bump and his spare tyre rolled the full length of the road! How he didnt KILL someone I do not know! Pros take time. Amateurs7 dont and pay for it. Good points and high numbers to ya! ''Johnny the Fox" 1993-2008

  • @terryswails1191

    @terryswails1191

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes sir pre trip inspection.👍👍

  • @yingle6027
    @yingle6027 Жыл бұрын

    I can't wait to try this, I recently had to back a trailer in front of people and couldn't do it. It's time to take back my manhood!

  • @lynechamp9557
    @lynechamp9557 Жыл бұрын

    Awesome directions 💕 One more trick, is what ever mirror your trailer shows up in, that’s the direction to turn the steering to help keep your trailer straight. Super helpful with shorter trailers. Former Class 1A trainer

  • @danielboney614
    @danielboney6142 жыл бұрын

    When I was a kid mowing grass on the riding mower, Dad would always put the yard trailer on it and he said that the top of the steering wheel was for going forward and the bottom was for going backwards. All of my siblings (ten kids) can back a trailer like it's second nature 👍

  • @jalik4148

    @jalik4148

    2 жыл бұрын

    Don’t quite get the part where you said the top of the steering wheel was going forward..

  • @savedbygrace5152

    @savedbygrace5152

    2 жыл бұрын

    🤣that is awesome,I will remember this!

  • @Ernest264

    @Ernest264

    2 жыл бұрын

    The top is 'for' going forward.

  • @SchoolforHackers

    @SchoolforHackers

    2 жыл бұрын

    Dammit, why am I learning this at 64?

  • @ronaldnorris2179

    @ronaldnorris2179

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@jalik4148 😂😂😂

  • @RandyAllen702
    @RandyAllen7022 жыл бұрын

    No matter how it is done, the secret is making small corrections. Large wheel turns (over-correcting) are the single biggest cause of screwing this up. I have always used the bottom of the wheel method and have taught several people about this as they were struggling at boat ramps. This is a task worthy of practice! Too many people fail to practice until they are at the location (camp ground, boat ramp, storage area, etc.). Go to a local school or shopping center or business lot and practice backing your rig into a parking spot. This will save you a lot of embarrassment later!

  • @ralphlyda4545
    @ralphlyda45452 жыл бұрын

    You’re doing this unselfishly to help others, with no expectation of return. What a wonderful human being!!!

  • @beachbum1523
    @beachbum1523 Жыл бұрын

    For me, the key to backing in a trailer was to shift my paradigms from a mindset of "backing up", to using the tractor to push the trailer into position. Once I learned to do that, my backing improved dramatically.

  • @garysimms77
    @garysimms772 жыл бұрын

    I haven't driven trailers in years, but in the service I picked up a very similar trick. Watch your mirrors. When you see the trailer show up in either mirror, turn the wheel TOWARDS that visual clue, The trailer will head the other direction and leave the mirror. When it shows up in the other mirror, Turn TOWARDS that mirror with the visual cue. The trailer will go back the other way. Small corrections also help a lot. This keeps the yelling "Your other left!" down. Great tip!

  • @MikeBrown-ii3pt
    @MikeBrown-ii3pt2 жыл бұрын

    When I was a kid riding with my dad, he always said steer toward trouble. In other words, no matter where your hands are positioned on the wheel, turn in the direction of what or where you DON'T want to hit or go. Another tip I learned on my own is when backing into a a dark area, lay 2 flashlights on the ground where you want to put your trailer.

  • @mr.giraffe7076

    @mr.giraffe7076

    2 жыл бұрын

    Life is like trucking. Turn toward the problem.

  • @rocmo656

    @rocmo656

    2 жыл бұрын

    that's the saying that made everything click for me. It was like magic 😅

  • @johncunningham4820

    @johncunningham4820

    2 жыл бұрын

    Reversing in the dark ? Turn on the Hazard Lights .

  • @RH-rz9tp

    @RH-rz9tp

    2 жыл бұрын

    A trainer also told me the same... Steer toward your trouble

  • @KM-ce9cz
    @KM-ce9cz7 ай бұрын

    OMG. This is the clearest, most complete and informative instruction I have ever had! And by the three minute mark. I am 60 year old, female, and I never got the hang of backing up a trailer. This was so simple! Thank you sir. 💜

  • @peaceineachsmile3871
    @peaceineachsmile38712 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for sharing. Someone taught my dad the same trick in a hotel parking lot in the year of 2000 as we were driving a Uhaul and a car from North Carolina to California. The wonderful thing is you make it more clear when holding the bottom of the steering wheel. I never thought i’d be a trucker and oh boy i use this method all the time because it was what i knew first. My lesson is, you will never know how you’d impact a kid when doing something good in front of him. Again thank you!

  • @biff5856
    @biff58562 жыл бұрын

    The little trailer is more difficult than a 29' r.v.. The longer the wheelbase the easier it is. Trust me I know. Great helpful video.

  • @markbernier8434

    @markbernier8434

    2 жыл бұрын

    My nemesis is the wood splitter. Completely invisible behind a pickup.

  • @DkSchadow

    @DkSchadow

    2 жыл бұрын

    Can confirm.

  • @otismartin132

    @otismartin132

    2 жыл бұрын

    Now try that with the 53' trailer

  • @eddieb1766

    @eddieb1766

    2 жыл бұрын

    You are correct. There was a time in my stupid youth that I would back my 21 ft boat trailer at 30 mph just to show off.

  • @jamiemercer6847

    @jamiemercer6847

    2 жыл бұрын

    because u cannot see it

  • @josephrobichaud5198
    @josephrobichaud51982 жыл бұрын

    I'm 67 years old and have been towing trailers since I was 16 years old of different sizes. I have to agree the shorter the trailer, the harder it is is to back up! It just reacts far faster to any input. Anyone I know that's trying to pull a trailer the first time I make the same suggestion. Find an open empty lot and practise with no one around to judge you.

  • @rickb.9067

    @rickb.9067

    2 жыл бұрын

    bingo

  • @lutherhgrindstonemtn3456

    @lutherhgrindstonemtn3456

    2 жыл бұрын

    I agree with you 100%. I think people get a little nervous if they think someone is watching them! Ya know I think that's good advise coming from a youngster like you. Hey I'm 70, and of course just kidding! Take care!

  • @jeff7461

    @jeff7461

    2 жыл бұрын

    90% of the people watching probably don’t know any better.

  • @vansonmafeet734

    @vansonmafeet734

    2 жыл бұрын

    So, if you're backing up a small trailer (say a 4'x6') your steering wheel input should be in small increments and back up slowly?

  • @12thDecember

    @12thDecember

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@jeff7461 90% of the people had the same problem when they were learning. I'm getting ready for a very long RV trip, and some sites I could only get back-in. If people laugh at me, I'll figure they're just remembering how hard it was for them and the laughter is all in good fun. Of course, I'm going to spend a few hours practicing before hitting the road, and I'll practice along the way when I can at big empty parking lots. I'm sure I'll look like an amateur anyway, but what the heck.

  • @wendy645
    @wendy6452 жыл бұрын

    My dad passed away when I was younger and I never got to learn this from him. I just bought a camper trailer and pick it up tomorrow, and this is super helpful and makes me feel more confident! Thank you so much 😊

  • @estebanleon7637
    @estebanleon7637 Жыл бұрын

    Haha, I wish I had watched this video earlier. Thank you very much. Many years ago, I tried to put a little trailer in my garage for the night. After an hour of struggle, with the noisy car going back and forth, I still couldn't get it in. The whole street of neighbors was laughing at the home, peeking out of their windows to see what was happening. Since then, backing a trailer has been an impossible task and a mystery to me. Now I have the confidence to do the backing of a trailer. Thank you very much once again.

  • @drivehard
    @drivehard2 жыл бұрын

    Okay this is just plain brilliant. I can go a year sometimes without having to pull a trailer. So when I do end up pulling a trailer and I go to back it in I end up looking a bit foolish for a few min until I get the feel for it. I've never been told to keep my hand on the bottom of the steering wheel. I love this method and can't wait to give it a try. Thanks Dave for the quick no-nonsense explanation 🙂

  • @DkSchadow

    @DkSchadow

    2 жыл бұрын

    The problem is people tend to overcomplicate the explanation. This way is simple, that's why it's so brilliant.

  • @rayleblanc7209

    @rayleblanc7209

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@DkSchadow I love your handle (Bababla ) My kid brothers name is Robert. He wants to be call Rob and never Bob because of his last name.

  • @sylenzf4748
    @sylenzf47482 жыл бұрын

    I've been out here over 20yrs, and that's exactly the way I do an teach it. Another thing to remember is to don't over steer, a little bit goes a long way.

  • @rainingstarfire2546
    @rainingstarfire2546 Жыл бұрын

    Another tip for those that do not feel comfortable steering from the bottom of the wheel, just put some white tap on the bottom of the steering wheel and use that to tell which way to turn the wheel. Turn the tape to the left, the trailer will go to the left, turn the tape to the right and the trailer will go to the right. It's also easier to keep an eye on the trailer tires when backing up to guide you, the trailer will always follow the tires. Another tip is to cross the safety chains, in other words form an X, that will keep the trailer straight if it breaks loose.

  • @beverlyroot5080
    @beverlyroot50809 ай бұрын

    Amazing tips. I worked in trucking my whole life (in the office...not driving) but have never had this explained so simply.

  • @Colhogan06
    @Colhogan062 жыл бұрын

    This is definitely great advice! When I was an MP in the Army, we had a need to move trucks with trailers when doing field exercises. They always taught us to turn the opposite direction you want the trailer to go in. Which if your hand is at the top of the wheel is what you would do. The problem, you can forget and end up going the wrong way. With the way explained on this video, you cannot forget or mess up. Right is right, and left is left. Great advice! I wish they would have taught it this way back then. Thanks for this video!!

  • @jimbartosevich498

    @jimbartosevich498

    2 жыл бұрын

    That's exactly the issue I had. Every time I reversed with a trailer, I would start as if I didn't have one, just out of habit. It's not that I didn't know to go the opposite. It's that it can be difficult to consciously override muscle memory.

  • @robertlawrence893
    @robertlawrence8932 жыл бұрын

    I remember when I first got my CDL, backing was a real problem for me, then this older trucker said let me show you how to snake a trailer, he did the exact thing you did by placing my hand at the bottom of the steering wheel, I instantly got it! Thank you for teaching the walk around, and remember to BACK SLOW, STOP, AND GET OUT, AND LOOK! SUPER TEACHING!

  • @lorenzoparedes2306
    @lorenzoparedes2306 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the instructions. I have always held respect and admiration for skilled truckers who can maneuver an 18 wheel rig into and out of tight spaces without hitting or damaging vehicles or buildings.

  • @boss2654
    @boss26547 ай бұрын

    I literally watched this video before my training and I can't thank you enough. Very well explained and I finally mastered backing up 53 foot trailers at work. Thank you so much

  • @darcyfunk
    @darcyfunk2 жыл бұрын

    This is the very technique that I was taught when I took my class one driver training in the late 1980’s. One additional thing, I was taught to lower my window so that I could hear if anyone was trying to get my attention.

  • @okie1630

    @okie1630

    2 жыл бұрын

    lol great, thanks!

  • @GolfSierra47

    @GolfSierra47

    2 жыл бұрын

    ALWAYS do that! And stop when it sounds expensive!

  • @DocHogan
    @DocHogan2 жыл бұрын

    Bottom-of-wheel steering is HUGE, and it was an absolute gamechanger when I figured it out, completely against my training, years ago. And I’ve been looked at like I was insane every time I’ve bothered to explain it to anyone.

  • @victorsierra2990
    @victorsierra29902 жыл бұрын

    Love when these older drivers give Pro tips! Thank you sir.

  • @chriscomer8025
    @chriscomer80252 жыл бұрын

    Very well explained, and a Great Video for those who aren't Professional Driver's. Everyone has to learn and I still have memories of that challenge being 18 years old. It's now been 43 years ago and eventually it will become second nature to ya! Just a word of encouragement to ALL the rookies! 😉

  • @billj5645
    @billj56452 жыл бұрын

    This is the way- I taught this to myself many years ago when driving a tow truck for my father's garage. Another trick to keep in mind- the shorter the trailer with respect to the length of the vehicle, the more careful you have to be with small steering adjustments. Backing a long trailer is much more forgiving.

  • @GrayDeathSociety
    @GrayDeathSociety2 жыл бұрын

    One tip a trainer taught us was to understand where the trailer pivots, the axles. and coupler. That tip immediately improved our trailer backing skills. We would always watch the tail and not the pivot point and tail... Once we understood the pivot point everything else fell in place, we were able to put the trailer into tighter spots too... Hopefully this trick helps people as well.

  • @marknorwood7521
    @marknorwood75212 жыл бұрын

    Yep!! When I first started driving, the HR guy, a former driver gave me that advice of putting your hand on the Bottom of the steering wheel. Best Advice I got out of ALL my training.👍

  • @jfr7694
    @jfr76942 жыл бұрын

    Excellent tip, this makes backing up so easy you don't have to remember which way to turn, the trailer will always follow the bottom of the wheel. I've been doing this my whole life my father was a life long truck driver & taught me this when he taught me to drive a truck when I was 15. Whenever I see someone having trouble backing up I tell them to try this and it's amazing how fast they can back up without constantly pulling up to correct. Most people are amazed at how easy they can back up all the sudden.

  • @kayejc
    @kayejc2 жыл бұрын

    My late husband (trucker) had taught me this years ago but I had forgotten all about it. Thank you for the refresher lesson.

  • @jerodkenoyer270
    @jerodkenoyer2702 жыл бұрын

    That's how my dad taught me and it was a game changer. On those off days and when I'm tired I still use this technique to get it to the dock. You should of seen me going down the boat ramp before I knew this trick, I was a twisted up mess holding everyone up and being way to hard on my self. Now I've taught all my kids this trick and in general to stay in their mirrors rather than breaking their necks looking over the shoulder. I've put blind spot mirrors on all our vehicles and wouldn't leave home without them. Also when in doubt, get out, and take a look. Never be in to much of a hurry or back faster than you can correct. Thanks for the great video

  • @Reggiebob2000

    @Reggiebob2000

    2 жыл бұрын

    Tip for backing boat down a ramp....simply put the truck in neutral and let the trailer pull you down. Goes pretty smooth.

  • @srf2112
    @srf2112 Жыл бұрын

    I'm planning on buying a camper/trailer soon but I have no experience towing trailers and quite honestly the thought of it has been stressful. This video just took a lot of anxiety out of my plans. I'm sure I can become proficient in moving a trailer around with the tips here. Thank you.

  • @gammonbrown9898
    @gammonbrown9898 Жыл бұрын

    FINALLY!!! The only thing that could enhance this video would've been to include a picture in the picture. As the vehicle is turning, we see a small picture at the same time as your hand turning the steering wheel to reinforce the mental image and to see just how much you're turning the wheel. Thank you for uploading this video.

  • @michaelsalice9952

    @michaelsalice9952

    2 ай бұрын

    Good point!!!

  • @justterrell956
    @justterrell9562 жыл бұрын

    Man I am so glad I came across this video, I just got my cdl and while I could pass the test I still felt I was struggling with the backing. Greatly appreciated this.

  • @viridianachavez471

    @viridianachavez471

    2 жыл бұрын

    This is me rn, I just started trucking and I struggle with backing up, even tho I did great with that portion of my test.

  • @EdgarHammer847

    @EdgarHammer847

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@viridianachavez471 congrats on your cdl. How did you train for it?

  • @keithmorgan4883
    @keithmorgan48832 жыл бұрын

    Just found out today that backing up a pup trailer is harder than a 53 foot trailer.

  • @wendybenson5903
    @wendybenson5903 Жыл бұрын

    I've watched other videos on how to back up a camper trailer and this is the clearest, most easy to understand video I've seen. Thank you so much!!!!!

  • @sloanemichaele
    @sloanemichaele Жыл бұрын

    This is the greatest trailer-backing-up-tip I've ever heard of, and I've used this technique for decades! I don't even think about it any more, it's just natural for me to steer the trailer from the bottom of the steering wheel. I first learned this technique from Desi Arnaz in the movie "The Long Long Trailer", just at the time I was learning to pull a trailer as a teen. Thanks!

  • @phillhuddleston9445
    @phillhuddleston94452 жыл бұрын

    Good advice, one thing to remember is not to worry about where your car/truck is heading, it will always follow the trailer so focus on where the trailer is going. Obviously you don't want to side swipe anything with your vehicle but once I learned to focuse on the direction the trailer was heading more than the truck it made it easier.

  • @archstanton9703
    @archstanton97032 жыл бұрын

    I’m going to use these tips for backing up my utility trailer with my Jeep. It’s difficult backing up a small trailer with a vehicle with a short wheel base. Thanks for this straight to the point and well explained video!

  • @allenjackson6197
    @allenjackson61972 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Sir. You helped me more on this video than anyone I've asked to show me in person. And you didn't over talk it... Salute!

  • @MarkGardner66Bonnie
    @MarkGardner66Bonnie Жыл бұрын

    I want to say thank you... I have a new camper that I have struggled with and this really made a difference. Thanks again

  • @benchavez9910
    @benchavez99102 жыл бұрын

    Started hauling 20 ft trailers in 1974 worked my way up to 53 ft trailers. I learned ur backing up secret by an old driver who taught me to drive in San Francisco. His remark was I am going to teach the old school way of backing up. I have been using this method to train new drivers up to my retirement in Oct.2020

  • @dalejohnson8945
    @dalejohnson89452 жыл бұрын

    This was the same tip I received when starting out 10 years in trucking. It comes to mind every time I’m backing. Invaluable.

  • @lance2530
    @lance25302 жыл бұрын

    Awesome to see someone actually made a video about this. I have been teaching exactly the same thing to anyone who will listen for years.

  • @martymonaco1255
    @martymonaco12552 жыл бұрын

    I have ALWAYS had trouble backing a trailer! Always. But, always had my hand on the top of the steering wheel. This was a great video with a great lesson!! Thanks!

  • @jerrodlopes186
    @jerrodlopes1862 жыл бұрын

    Something that has helped me a great deal is after getting a real good setup for backing, once backing I usually concentrate on the driver side mirror, especially if there's a painted line to guide me. It's a lot less overwhelming for newbies or those who only occasionally pull a trailer.

  • @pemtax557
    @pemtax5572 жыл бұрын

    Extremely well explained and demonstrated. This was exactly the way my Dad taught me in the 60's and I've never had issues with it. Cheers!!

  • @jazz4asahel
    @jazz4asahel7 ай бұрын

    I haven't been able to back up my little utility trailer and I am confident that I can approach it better now by using these simple tips. Thank you smart trucking.

  • @Jahida360
    @Jahida360 Жыл бұрын

    I'm here in Orlando about to drive a trailer for the first time to help with debris removal you're the second video I watched but so much detail I really appreciate this right now I drive professionally for Paratransit and wheelchair lift but I've never attained to CDL hopefully in the future loving your Channel right now!! Thank you

  • @CdA_Native
    @CdA_Native2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the great memories that came flooding back to me as I watched your video. My father, who owned a trucking company, put me into a tractor/trailer combination when I was 16 ....... and told me to back it into the dock. He then walked away from me and I worked on that damn trailer for an hour to get it straight. Best "lesson" he could have taught me because I had to figure it out for myself!

  • @DoubleDHomestead
    @DoubleDHomestead2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for explaining it that easily. In all my years I struggled, now I know a simple trick to make it easier. Thanks you so much.

  • @wargrunt2002
    @wargrunt2002 Жыл бұрын

    It's crazy how a small thing like hand placement on the steering wheel can make backing my boat so much easier. Thank you so much for the tips sir. It's much appreciated and oh so useful.

  • @Anna-ci9fv
    @Anna-ci9fv2 ай бұрын

    THIS IS THE BEST VIDEO ON BACKING UP YOUR TRAILER!!!!!!! EVERYONE SHOULD. WATCH IT.

  • @SmartTrucking

    @SmartTrucking

    2 ай бұрын

    Yep It Is!!!!!! 😎😉👍 Glad you got some value from it!

  • @tscottme
    @tscottme2 жыл бұрын

    The shorter the wheelbase on the trailer the faster it reacts. I've got 25 years CDL experience and it can be really difficult to push a small U-haul type trailer around.

  • @labourlawact7826

    @labourlawact7826

    2 жыл бұрын

    Not necessarily. It also just takes practice. But I agree, the longer the trailer, the easier to reverse. I drove big rigs for many years, and then a small pickup truck with a diesel bowser trailer that was very short. One gets the hang of them quickly enough. 😊👍

  • @themanthemyththebanger

    @themanthemyththebanger

    2 жыл бұрын

    You think those U-Haul trailers are fun, take a converter dolly for a spin sometime.

  • @Ken-sr6jo

    @Ken-sr6jo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Drove a truck with a 53 ft trailer for years and could back it into tight spots without much problem. Retired and bought an 18 ft trailer and find it more difficult to back. I have to concentrate on NOT over steering. It’s all a matter of what you get used to backing. Always used the bottom of the wheel when backing.

  • @davidgibbs381

    @davidgibbs381

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@themanthemyththebanger -Is that more fun than a log-splitter?

  • @playbackproductions1
    @playbackproductions12 жыл бұрын

    My cdl instructor taught us this truck on day one. Ive never, not once, had a problem backing. Awesome backing technique!

  • @stephaniesebero
    @stephaniesebero2 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much! That simple hand placement is a game-changer!!! My father is a retired trucker and never taught me this trick. Haha. I appreciate you!!!

  • @onemansopinionomo119
    @onemansopinionomo119 Жыл бұрын

    Bro.... I CANNOT thank you enough....So quick, So smart, So cool, So efficient... Thank YOu SOOO much

  • @scopex2749
    @scopex27492 жыл бұрын

    I lived on the road for 10 years in my trailer and hauled them all my life. BUT this is the simplest and best answer ive seen for trailer backing! THANK YOU👍🏻

  • @CS-zh5oh
    @CS-zh5oh2 жыл бұрын

    I've been backing up trailers for years without issue, but struggled teaching my wife and kids. Thank you so much for giving such an easy straight forward way of describing it!!!

  • @mikedavidson7470
    @mikedavidson74705 ай бұрын

    Great tip! 35 years ago when i first started working for my father-in-law i hsd never pulled a trailer, one of the guys told me this and it has stuck with me. Great job!

  • @stettan1754
    @stettan17549 ай бұрын

    You, Sir…are a genius! I used your tutorial last week. I was able to back up my camper easier. 👍🏻

  • @erynnerose3792
    @erynnerose37922 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for this information!!! When my husband and I take the boat out, many times, this is my job....I do ok, but always feel I'm holding everyone up, from my sometimes several attempts!! Haha I think this will make me confident and alot more at ease! Thanks again, you rock!

  • @jfed6895
    @jfed68952 жыл бұрын

    I’ve been backing trailers since I was a teenager and never really had a problem. I’ve never heard this before and I’m really glad I watched this video. I’m going to tell everyone I know about this and hopefully it’ll help them. Thanks.

  • @johncunningham4820
    @johncunningham48202 жыл бұрын

    EXCELLENT ADVICE for getting it stuck in your Head . And , YES , the Shorter the Trailer the trickier . 34 yr Heavy Combo Driver from Australia here .

  • @modacare4546
    @modacare4546 Жыл бұрын

    Glad to see someone finally show this. I've been teaching people at boat ramps how to do that for years.

  • @olesarge1724
    @olesarge17242 жыл бұрын

    I was taught this trick back in 1972. Being a young first timer on a semi rig I was doing a terrible job backing in to the dock between two trailers. An old timer saw my pain and jumped on my running board and yelled STOP ! He said to pull this truck forward and listen to me. You’ll never have this problem again. He sure was right ! Probably saved my job and tons of damage. 😅😂. That was many moons ago at the Metro Glass company in Dalton, IL.

  • @OvGraphics

    @OvGraphics

    2 жыл бұрын

    Oh, around, less see, 1979 or so I was working at the Coke company when I got graduated to unloading semi's full of coke bottles. Part of it was backing the trailers to the dock. Well, they put me in the truck and never even showed me how to crank the thing. I asked for some pointers and the boss just laughed. I spent more time creeping back and forth lining up the trailers than actually unloading them. Thankfully it was at night, pitch dark, and no one to there to have a heart attack laffing so hard watching me. Coulda used that trick back then! Darn!

  • @matthewk6731
    @matthewk67312 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the video. I can easily back up a trailer if I stand up in the seat and turn around because I could never get using the mirrors. Hard on my bad back too. I'll definitely use these tips to learn how to use the mirrors. The poles on the trailer is a good trick too. A previous post said that when it's dark to put a couple of flashlights where you want the trailer to go. That is brilliant.

  • @wigglesworth3717
    @wigglesworth3717 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for this! I have always avoided backing up a trailer but now I’m looking forward to practicing this.

  • @bryanwray6171
    @bryanwray6171 Жыл бұрын

    While new to backing up an RV Trailer a old trucker shared the same trick at Arrowhead PP in Ontario and kept it till this day. Thanks for the reminder to me and all

  • @jimmarchman
    @jimmarchman2 жыл бұрын

    Love this channel. The straightforward and friendly way the host speaks is like listening to your favorite uncle and the ad lib story telling is always entertaining.

  • @newzealandallblacks3726
    @newzealandallblacks37262 жыл бұрын

    Sir. Great video and you are my new hero. I can’t back a trailer to save my life but tried it today using your instructions and it was perfect! Thanks again and safe trucking!

  • @scottwinn3979
    @scottwinn3979 Жыл бұрын

    Great suggestions! I’ve never thought of hand placement on the steering wheel affecting the direction, but that would definitely help my brain focus better. Thanks!

  • @ramonabennett1973
    @ramonabennett19732 жыл бұрын

    After many tries of backing up a trailer & failing, I have given up years ago. I think I can try again! This video makes sense. Thanks for sending it my way.

  • @wayneblue5370
    @wayneblue53702 жыл бұрын

    Great day for this video. I was delivering parts for a storage facility. I got ahead of myself and didn't walk to yard to see how much room I had to turn around when u pulled to the unloading area I thought I was in trouble. But my trusty 389 performed beautifully, w my 48 ft Conestoga, took my time and successfully made it out. I'm not new at this but have no problem admitting I was a little stressed.

  • @fayheller1996
    @fayheller19962 жыл бұрын

    Oh my goodness thank you so much. I tried backing up our boat trailer and camper trailer so many times almost to tears without success. Had so much determination but couldn't to crying. I can see how easy it is now. Can't wait to try it now.

  • @MrTwostring
    @MrTwostring Жыл бұрын

    I'm a casual trailer user. Last trailer I used was last summer -- a UHaul car hauler. I'm glad I learned this tip years ago. I was also an expeditor for USPS for a few years. I watched many a trailer back up and I wondered if I understood the concepts. I've enjoyed a few of your videos comparing the different kinds of skills needed to back up different kinds of trailers. I sometimes wish I could go to "semi camp" and try my hand at driving a big rig. I don't want a CDL, but it would be fun to start to learn.

  • @tubbytommy
    @tubbytommy2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you.. That's the way my father taught me about 48 years ago -- before power steering and auto transmissions he had backing a 40 foot flatbed.. And I have taught my son's and daughters the same way..

  • @mjb2093
    @mjb20932 жыл бұрын

    Honestly, I've never approached it this way. Cant wait to try it and pass this along to my wife as well since she has trouble backing our utility trailer. Thank you sir!!!

  • @Greg3070
    @Greg30702 жыл бұрын

    I learned that back in the 90s from another driver. To this day, I'm surprised how many can't understand this concept. I'm even more surprised they don't teach it in school. After a while you can just think which way is the bottom of the steering wheel going. Good video and keep up the good work.

  • @phuzed37
    @phuzed37 Жыл бұрын

    It's so simple that it's beautiful. Thanks man, buying a travel trailer soon and glad I watched this.

  • @ksolo1960
    @ksolo1960 Жыл бұрын

    Great video! Best place I learned was when I worked at U haul, we'd have to pick up little trailers with a 26' truck, the only way you can know if you were screwing it up is you saw the trailer in your mirrors! Tricky! Great video Dave! 🤟🤟

  • @joewoodchuck3824
    @joewoodchuck38242 жыл бұрын

    An old relative taught me to just follow the trailer for more or less straight reversing. Works like a charm. Additionally, what I learned on my own is to use mirrors instead of looking directly back. It may seem more confusing on the surface, but it actually simplifies how your brain processes the image.

  • @leebuck180
    @leebuck1802 жыл бұрын

    The antenna on the rear of the trailer is a great idea.

  • @Lees920
    @Lees9202 жыл бұрын

    After about 55 years of backing a trailer down, I have it down pat. But I sure wish I had this advice when I first started. One other thing I do as a pre-check is grabbing each trailer tire and pull to the side to make sure there is no wobble in the bearings/ hubs. There's nothing worse than blowing out bearings and hubs and being stuck on the side of the road. A shot of grease regularly makes a big difference along with annual maintenance. You've got some sage advice here. Thank you!

  • @GregJoshuaW
    @GregJoshuaW2 жыл бұрын

    Brother - thank you for teaching safety as well. This was unexpectedly thorough and still succinct. Great job.

  • @arbonneladyTN
    @arbonneladyTN2 жыл бұрын

    That is the way I learned! But it was when I was young, from a movie I saw and fell in love with! Lucille Ball & Desi Arnez in the movie “The Long Long Trailer”. That is how he was taught to back up in the movie. When in College and backing up our friend’s boat trailers, that simple trick came back to me. When hubby and I got our 36’ TT camper in 2000 I made the family watch that movie! I taught that backing trick to the hubby, and many friends. Now with our 26’ TT that trick is still the best one, just wish my hubby would understand the “over steer” part.🤷‍♀️ Not sure how this video popped into my feed this morning, glad it did. Have a great day!

  • @glennstep1

    @glennstep1

    2 жыл бұрын

    I can hear that trailer creaking up the mountain! Such a great movie. Best tip, don't have all the in laws and neighbor instruct you from the sidelines on backing the trailer.

  • @ChayomanHutzepua
    @ChayomanHutzepua2 жыл бұрын

    OMG! I have been driving for like 6 months. And I figured that on my own. I explain it the same way. Seen you Sir say that made me feel like good. I got a very experienced gentleman say it the same way. Thank you. Another trick, to back up straight is to wiggle the steering wheel. Little left little right. It keeps the trailer from pivoting.

  • @HLMcCoyEnterprises
    @HLMcCoyEnterprises10 ай бұрын

    This is a very cool and simple technique. I have been hauling and parking trailers for years and never even considered this. I am very good at backing trailers but I have to say, this adds amazing simplicity and is a game changer for those who are challenged with docking trailers! I am glad I stumbled into this video and have subscribed. Thank you for the lesson! :D

  • @fromtheblonx
    @fromtheblonx8 күн бұрын

    This is possibly the best tutorial I've seen on YT! Thank you🙏

  • @TheRealTLA
    @TheRealTLA2 жыл бұрын

    Thats a great tip! I was taught if you are trying to back your trailer straight, having your hand on the top of the steering wheel, just remember whatever side mirror your trailer starts appearing in, slightly turn the steering wheel towards that mirror until you see that it starts to straighten up again. If it then appears in the opposite mirror, just turn your steering wheel towards that mirror. Keep watching and alternating between both mirrors, slightly turning the steering wheel towards each of the mirrors you see your trailer coming more into view. If it starts turning too far just pull forward to straighten up and start again.

  • @desertfox3860

    @desertfox3860

    2 жыл бұрын

    Exactly! And a lot of people don't pull forward far enough to get a good site picture of their destination in their mirrors before they start backing. I told my boys they should be able to drive as fast backwards as forward.

  • @tonydm71
    @tonydm712 жыл бұрын

    Great tip easy to remember when it’s simplified for new and seasoned drivers, I train drivers the exact same technique you just showed, and when it comes to super B’s or Quad trailers you put your hand on top and turn left for left and right for right. You are so right about drivers making it harder than it needs to be, common problem is oversteering and then over correcting and now chasing trailer all over the place. Small 1/4turns of the steering and if it gets away from you JUST STOP,,, pull ahead straighten out and start again. Remember the farther ahead you go, the farther you have to back up. Rubber side down gets you home quicker and safer lol

  • @robinlawson2145
    @robinlawson21452 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for taking the time to teach us greenhorns! You sir,are super!! Stay blessed! 🙏

  • @kjata77
    @kjata77 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for this video. I've driven buses and large box trucks but have never been good backing up with a trailer. Steering from the bottom of the steering wheel is genius yet so simple. 1 year later and your video is still helping people :)

  • @reesaserik3759
    @reesaserik37592 жыл бұрын

    Glad I found this video. Thank you so much. It is very rare that I pull our little short 8' utility trailer. My husband usually does it. But if I have to, it is a real struggle for me to back it up. I found quickly steering left, right, left, right, helped to go straight. But I felt like an idiot doing that. Then I see in this video that is what is done so now I know I am not an idiot. But I still had trouble making the trailer turn the way I wanted it to, while going backwards. I steered with hands on the top of the wheel or at 10:00 and 2:00. I think this has been my problem. I will try the one hand at the bottom. I also saw some comments, by other's, stating how to use your side mirrors instead of looking back or looking through the center mirror -- as I do. Thanks for those comments. Funny thing is, while I struggle backing with the truck, I can hook that little trailer up to the zero turn mower and back up and turn while going backwards all day long and no problems at all. Go figure. Thanks again to everyone for sharing your knowledge and experience.

  • @tanman7879
    @tanman78792 жыл бұрын

    Good advice. I remember as a kid learning how to back up all sorts of trailers on my grandads farm. Every trailer is different and the short ones with a swivel tongue are really difficult! Honestly I still struggle today with 53 footers in tight spots from time to time but always find a way. Some of these facilities don't leave you much room to get to the door! Just stay calm and get out to look. Take an extra minute or two.

  • @labourlawact7826

    @labourlawact7826

    2 жыл бұрын

    Those gooseneck trailers are the absolute pits to reverse.

  • @Gen-lj2bk
    @Gen-lj2bk2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your video. I've seen alot of folks embarrass themselves at the dump attempting to back in. I was one of them quite honestly. Hand on the bottom..imagine. simple. Thank you sir. Now I might know what I'm doing with my new trailer.

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