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Safety: Observe & Execute

Here at Phoenix Coach Works, we are fully aware that many of you are seasoned travelers, having towed horse-trailers, RVs or toy haulers hundreds of times and thousands of miles throughout your life.  However, in recent weeks we have been focusing our attention on proper towing techniques and other safety related items. Our purpose is not to bore or insult the intelligence and experience of our weathered vets but rather to educate and inform those who are just beginning their travels.

Whether you tow a 6×8 tilt-bed or a 4 horse trailer with a tack room and sleeping quarters, there are certain techniques and driving habits that must be learned and observed.  If a driver fails to abide by these principles, vehicles, trailers, people and their animals may fall victim to their negligence and unsafe towing practices.  That is why it is important to discuss safety at such lengths.

Practice, Practice, Practice:  Before cruising on the interstate, you’ll need to get some practice operating your rig.  Even if it’s a small trailer, the additional weight as well as your extended length will change the way your vehicle handles.  If you’re used to heavy, last-minute braking, you need to practice giving yourself more space and time to slow your rig to a stop.

One of the most frequent complications when towing a trailer is backing up.  Practicing backing will not only ensure the safety of your rig and those riding in it, but it’ll impress bystanders as they watch you finesse your trailer into position.

WIDE LOAD:  If you’re towing a trailer or RV that has a wider wheelbase than your vehicle, you will need to replace the standard side mirrors with a larger set or install mirror extensions.  You also want to consider the length and width of your rig when making any spatial judgments including turns and passing other vehicles (most likely you’ll be the one getting passed as safe towing requires driving at reduced speeds).

Keep it steady:  Aside from being scary, trailer sway can be extremely hazardous and cause your rig to jackknife if not corrected promptly.  In order to prevent trailer sway, make sure your load is evenly distributed and maintain a steady, consistent speed with as little lane change as possible.  If your trailer has independent brakes, you can correct trailer sway by applying the trailer brakes without the vehicle brakes.

It seems that almost anything truly enjoyable comes with some sort of risk or hazard.  Traveling while towing a trailer is no different.  Whether you’re hauling quads in your enclosed trailer or livestock in your 6 horse trailer, safety should always be your number one concern.

And if you happen to discover something during your rig’s inspection that needs repair or slight fabrication, please contact Phoenix Coach Works and schedule a consultation.  We take pride in what we do so you can take pride in what you tow.

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Buckle Up and Ride

Last week we gave an enthusiastic shout out to our customers as a way to show our appreciation for the people who help make Phoenix Coach Works a success.

This week we’d like to get back on task and start talking business once more.  As was described last week, our customers range from lifelong equestrians to individuals who possess a nostalgia for shiny, chromed-out toys.

For those who have been loading and unloading trailers their entire life, please be patient as we provide an overview of how to properly prepare and tow a large trailer.  As a matter of fact, this week’s post may even serve as a reminder to some of the mundane tasks that often go overlooked after years of repetitive behavior.

Whether you’re hauling a classic car or several of your prizewinning stallions, safety in transportation is the primary concern when you’re planning to hit the road.  For that reason, begin with a thorough inspection of the vehicle with which you plan to haul.  Starting in the front and working your way back, check the following:

–          Fluid levels (including transmission, oil, and water/antifreeze)

–          All tires (including the spare) for unusual wear and correct air pressure

–          Make sure the hitch is attached correctly and securely

–          Wiring harness is clean and all wires are in place

–          All proper documents and licenses are in the glove box

Once you have checked your towing vehicle, it is time to inspect your horse trailer, toy hauler, or enclosed trailer.  Again, working your way from front to back look closely at the following:

–          Trailer wiring harness is clean and all wires are in place

–          Test the handbrake

–          Make sure there is no damage to the breakaway cable/chains

–          All tires (including the spare) for unusual wear and correct air pressure

–          Trailer structure for rust, loose fasteners, cracks and breaks.

If you happen to notice any structural damaged, feel free to contact Phoenix Coach Works to schedule an appointment and receive a thorough assessment of the damage.

Now that you have completed this checklist, you can safely attach your trailer to your vehicle and be on your way.  Be sure to remember all necessary items including extra gear, a human and horse first aid kit, and all emergency roadside equipment.  If you are having trouble thinking of the essentials needed for your truck and trailer, please refer to our past blog-post titled Dream the Possible Dream.  It provides a detailed list of many of the items that many travelers include while packing their horse, car, or enclosed trailer.

Most importantly though, don’t forget to have fun.  Life is a journey best traveled with those you love and a smile on your face.  So put your stress behind you and embrace the open road, trail or meadow.  Though you may already know your intended destination, buckle up and ride because in life, if you don’t know where you’re headed any road will take you there.

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Introducing the Phoenix 2 horse Euro-Van

We’re extremely excited to introduce the latest addition to our complete line of trailers, vans and RVs. Phoenix 2 horse Euro-Van is a premier two-horse van built on a 3500 Mercedes chassis. It’s compact, fuel-efficient and stylish—but big enough to do the job. Thoughtful touches that account for your comfort in every detail—from added storage to space flexibility and safety features—make this horse van an ideal choice for your transport needs.

With its 3.0 turbocharged diesel engine delivering 188 hp to its five-speed automatic transmission, the Phoenix 2 horse Euro-Van can comfortably haul two rear-facing horses. And should you need to haul a few more, it’s equipped with a hitch to pull a trailer.

And of course horses aren’t your only cargo. The cabin is a streamlined space that can comfortably fit 3 people. There are many ways to tailor both sections of the rear space to suit your preferences and needs for each and every time you use it.

Here are some specs for your consideration:
• With a total length of just under 22’, the van can turn a circle in under 55’—making it extremely maneuverable and easy to drive
• The horse section is a roomy 10’5” in length and 84” in width with an interior height of 8’
• Loading is by a large 6’ wide, spring-assisted side ramp
• The van sports four 24×30” drop-down windows in the horse area and two 24×30” slide windows in the tack area
• The rear tack room is 36x 84” and a walk-through door allows access to the horse section

But that’s not all we have to say about the new Phoenix 2 horse Euro-Van. Next week, learn about three more key features that we haven’t even mentioned yet.

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The Five Cs of Phoenix Coach Works RVs

An RV can be a big investment, and we know that you want to get the best that’s out there at a fair cost. That’s our aim, too. For your consideration, we’ve compiled a list of Cs that might help you “see” why we’re the top choice for your new RV or trailer purchase.

For your comfort and convenience, Phoenix Coach Works RVs come equipped with:

1. Convertibility—RVs can suit many purposes. You can store your motorcycles or store your pals. A few tweaks can make it suitable for loading and unloading bikes or hitting the next campsite.

2. Cooking tools (microwave, 2-burner cook top, mini freezer fridge)—you don’t have to always eat fast food on the road. Stay healthy, save money and spare time by cooking in your enclosed trailer on the go.

3. Couch beds—easily changed from upright to flat for hanging out or sleeping.

4. Climate control—A/C, heat and hot water keep you at the right temp at all times. All of our trailers and toy haulers are also insulated and weather-resistant to protect your belongings.

5. Customization—one RV can never suit everyone’s needs. Phoenix can customize the features of your RV for your exact usage intents as well as personal preferences. Modify your RV with hitches, ramps, hubcaps and other accessories. Several sizes are available.

Learn more about our Bike and Car RVs.

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