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

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  • Опубліковано 25 чер 2024
  • 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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  • Розваги

КОМЕНТАРІ • 2,4 тис.

  • @SmartTrucking
    @SmartTrucking  2 роки тому +437

    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 роки тому +13

      Always avoid blind spot backing if possible.

    • @johnfunk6343
      @johnfunk6343 2 роки тому +14

      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 роки тому +16

      Thank you #SmartTrucking for posting yet another excellent video

    • @controllerforce_50East
      @controllerforce_50East 2 роки тому +10

      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 роки тому +11

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

  • @franciscotoro9454
    @franciscotoro9454 2 роки тому +866

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

  • @yingle6027
    @yingle6027 Рік тому +32

    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 Рік тому +204

    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

  • @ralphlyda4545
    @ralphlyda4545 2 роки тому +108

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

  • @big-daddy-o8576
    @big-daddy-o8576 2 роки тому +396

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

    • @richardfowler3254
      @richardfowler3254 2 роки тому +16

      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 роки тому +9

      great video

    • @garytanger6469
      @garytanger6469 2 роки тому +3

      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 роки тому

      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 роки тому +1

      Yes sir pre trip inspection.👍👍

  • @RandyAllen702
    @RandyAllen702 2 роки тому +214

    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!

  • @beachbum1523
    @beachbum1523 Рік тому +100

    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.

  • @KM-ce9cz
    @KM-ce9cz 8 місяців тому +39

    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. 💜

  • @danielboney614
    @danielboney614 2 роки тому +960

    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 роки тому +13

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

    • @savedbygrace5152
      @savedbygrace5152 2 роки тому +12

      🤣that is awesome,I will remember this!

    • @Ernest264
      @Ernest264 2 роки тому +6

      The top is 'for' going forward.

    • @SchoolforHackers
      @SchoolforHackers 2 роки тому +48

      Dammit, why am I learning this at 64?

    • @ronaldnorris2179
      @ronaldnorris2179 2 роки тому +2

      @@jalik4148 😂😂😂

  • @MikeBrown-ii3pt
    @MikeBrown-ii3pt 2 роки тому +226

    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 роки тому +27

      Life is like trucking. Turn toward the problem.

    • @rocmo656
      @rocmo656 2 роки тому +1

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

    • @johncunningham4820
      @johncunningham4820 2 роки тому +1

      Reversing in the dark ? Turn on the Hazard Lights .

    • @RH-rz9tp
      @RH-rz9tp 2 роки тому +1

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

  • @wendy645
    @wendy645 2 роки тому +68

    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 😊

  • @rainingstarfire2546
    @rainingstarfire2546 Рік тому +22

    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.

  • @garysimms77
    @garysimms77 2 роки тому +20

    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!

  • @josephrobichaud5198
    @josephrobichaud5198 2 роки тому +65

    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 роки тому +5

      bingo

    • @lutherhgrindstonemtn3456
      @lutherhgrindstonemtn3456 2 роки тому +3

      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 роки тому +2

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

    • @vansonmafeet734
      @vansonmafeet734 2 роки тому +4

      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 роки тому +2

      @@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.

  • @estebanleon7637
    @estebanleon7637 Рік тому +7

    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.

  • @lorenzoparedes2306
    @lorenzoparedes2306 Рік тому +12

    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.

  • @biff5856
    @biff5856 2 роки тому +194

    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 роки тому +23

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

    • @DkSchadow
      @DkSchadow 2 роки тому +5

      Can confirm.

    • @otismartin132
      @otismartin132 2 роки тому +5

      Now try that with the 53' trailer

    • @eddieb1766
      @eddieb1766 2 роки тому +6

      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 роки тому +1

      because u cannot see it

  • @sylenzf4748
    @sylenzf4748 2 роки тому +34

    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.

  • @chriscomer8025
    @chriscomer8025 2 роки тому +27

    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! 😉

  • @victorsierra2990
    @victorsierra2990 2 роки тому +10

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

  • @darcyfunk
    @darcyfunk 2 роки тому +75

    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 роки тому +4

      lol great, thanks!

    • @GolfSierra47
      @GolfSierra47 2 роки тому +26

      ALWAYS do that! And stop when it sounds expensive!

  • @drivehard
    @drivehard 2 роки тому +158

    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 роки тому +4

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

    • @rayleblanc7209
      @rayleblanc7209 2 роки тому

      @@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.

  • @jfr7694
    @jfr7694 2 роки тому +9

    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.

  • @marknorwood7521
    @marknorwood7521 2 роки тому +4

    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.👍

  • @robertlawrence893
    @robertlawrence893 2 роки тому +56

    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!

  • @peaceineachsmile3871
    @peaceineachsmile3871 2 роки тому +158

    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!

  • @gammonbrown9898
    @gammonbrown9898 Рік тому +3

    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.

  • @wargrunt2002
    @wargrunt2002 Рік тому +4

    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.

  • @Colhogan06
    @Colhogan06 2 роки тому +211

    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 роки тому +10

      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.

  • @kayejc
    @kayejc 2 роки тому +17

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

  • @larrycollicott8385
    @larrycollicott8385 2 дні тому

    This is the best explanation/tip I have ever heard for how to do this. LOL, I wish that my old man had explained it this way 45 years ago.

  • @stephaniesebero
    @stephaniesebero 3 місяці тому +1

    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!!!

  • @billj5645
    @billj5645 2 роки тому +72

    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.

  • @DocHogan
    @DocHogan 2 роки тому +58

    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.

  • @kjata77
    @kjata77 Рік тому +11

    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 :)

  • @Anna-ci9fv
    @Anna-ci9fv 3 місяці тому +2

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

    • @SmartTrucking
      @SmartTrucking  3 місяці тому

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

  • @GrayDeathSociety
    @GrayDeathSociety 2 роки тому +121

    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.

  • @jerodkenoyer270
    @jerodkenoyer270 2 роки тому +30

    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 роки тому +1

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

  • @billbo5746
    @billbo5746 Рік тому +2

    When you about to turn fifty and find out you have been doing it wrong for all this time. I always have placed my hand on top of the wheel and to consistently think left is right Right is left. I just hope I can untrain myself. Great tip. Thank you !!!

  • @fromtheblonx
    @fromtheblonx 26 днів тому +1

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

  • @phillhuddleston9445
    @phillhuddleston9445 2 роки тому +11

    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.

  • @leebuck180
    @leebuck180 2 роки тому +13

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

  • @basamsaleh8736
    @basamsaleh8736 Рік тому +2

    Sir,
    I would really like to express my admiration to the neatness of your simple, wonderful and magic trick & advice that is worth thousands of dollars in my personal opinion.
    I am still taking my classes at the school yard and I have never ever had that feeling of being stupid and not good at anything but your video has landed from heaven to me.
    Thanks again 🙏🙏🙏.

  • @-Kreger-
    @-Kreger- 6 днів тому

    My dad was a truck driver. This is how he taught me and my brothers. Works great.

  • @wb4514
    @wb4514 2 роки тому +19

    The trick is to position the truck and trailer an a manner where you can see one rear corner of the trailer. As you gently move backwards, point that corner where you want it to go and “follow it back”. The initial positioning is critical.

  • @justterrell956
    @justterrell956 2 роки тому +37

    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 роки тому +4

      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 роки тому

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

  • @jackstitt1395
    @jackstitt1395 10 місяців тому +2

    That trick was absolutely genius. I learned how to back a trailer as a young kid and being self taught I went out to a flat area and figured things out. Had I of known what you just taught I would have learned much faster.

  • @scottwinn3979
    @scottwinn3979 2 роки тому +7

    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!

  • @olesarge1724
    @olesarge1724 2 роки тому +10

    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 роки тому +1

      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!

  • @tscottme
    @tscottme 2 роки тому +169

    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 роки тому +6

      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 роки тому +23

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

    • @Ken-sr6jo
      @Ken-sr6jo 2 роки тому +1

      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 роки тому +1

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

  • @sloanemichaele
    @sloanemichaele Рік тому +2

    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!

  • @beverlyroot5080
    @beverlyroot5080 10 місяців тому +1

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

  • @arbonneladyTN
    @arbonneladyTN 2 роки тому +4

    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 роки тому

      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.

  • @playbackproductions1
    @playbackproductions1 2 роки тому +13

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

  • @zachaugustine893
    @zachaugustine893 Рік тому +1

    I pull a 16ft trailer everyday and this is excellent information. So many people have a hard time with trailers.

  • @Jahida360
    @Jahida360 Рік тому +2

    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

  • @fayheller1996
    @fayheller1996 2 роки тому +5

    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.

  • @archstanton9703
    @archstanton9703 2 роки тому +27

    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!

  • @MrTwostring
    @MrTwostring Рік тому +2

    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.

  • @modacare4546
    @modacare4546 Рік тому

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

  • @benchavez9910
    @benchavez9910 2 роки тому +3

    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

  • @boss2654
    @boss2654 8 місяців тому +1

    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

  • @martymonaco1255
    @martymonaco1255 2 роки тому +2

    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!

  • @CS-zh5oh
    @CS-zh5oh 2 роки тому +59

    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!!!

  • @dieselmutt8865
    @dieselmutt8865 2 роки тому +208

    One of the biggest mistakes people make when backing a trailer is the setup to back in. Probably 2/3’s of backing a trailer in a spot is done while still going forward so that the units are properly place for the remainder of the task.

    • @labourlawact7826
      @labourlawact7826 2 роки тому +18

      Spot on

    • @norseman8727
      @norseman8727 2 роки тому +26

      Set up is 90% of the game 🎯

    • @justsayin7937
      @justsayin7937 2 роки тому

      Can't always go forward...

    • @alvinuselton912
      @alvinuselton912 2 роки тому +1

      That’s right always drive for your trailer that’s what the old man taught me !! R I P wild Bill !!!!!

    • @danieljmedvid
      @danieljmedvid 2 роки тому +1

      Even with a poor setup with the right technique and skill you can still back a trailer without any issues

  • @Lees920
    @Lees920 2 роки тому +2

    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!

  • @wendybenson5903
    @wendybenson5903 Рік тому

    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!!!!!

  • @CdA_Native
    @CdA_Native 2 роки тому +3

    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
    @DoubleDHomestead 2 роки тому +14

    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.

  • @jazz4asahel
    @jazz4asahel 8 місяців тому

    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.

  • @srf2112
    @srf2112 Рік тому +3

    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.

  • @Greg3070
    @Greg3070 2 роки тому +6

    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.

  • @darltennant6005
    @darltennant6005 2 роки тому +4

    We taught an elderly lady how to back her ridding lawn mower with trailer on behind how to back out of her barn after
    the rain was over. A year later we met up again and she made sure to thank us. It really works!

  • @fredbezemer394
    @fredbezemer394 2 роки тому +8

    After 44 years experience I've never heard of that tip of the bottom of the steering wheel makes perfect sense fortunately I don't have any problem backing into tight places but this tip will surely help the new drivers understand reversing skills better, good tip Dave

  • @brianw612
    @brianw612 Рік тому

    Exactly the way I have always done it. I bought a 36 foot travel trailer having never towed before. This method made learning a whole lot easier.

  • @crhseahorse9092
    @crhseahorse9092 2 роки тому +12

    This works well for trailers that don't have a front axle that turns. Then it becomes a different ball game. Ask any farmer with a hay wagon!😊

  • @wayneblue5370
    @wayneblue5370 2 роки тому +6

    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.

  • @allenjackson6197
    @allenjackson6197 2 роки тому +1

    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!

  • @wigglesworth3717
    @wigglesworth3717 Рік тому +1

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

  • @jfed6895
    @jfed6895 2 роки тому +7

    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.

  • @pemtax557
    @pemtax557 2 роки тому +17

    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!!

  • @MarkGardner66Bonnie
    @MarkGardner66Bonnie Рік тому

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

  • @phuzed37
    @phuzed37 Рік тому +1

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

  • @keithmorgan4883
    @keithmorgan4883 2 роки тому +68

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

  • @patrickharrington9772
    @patrickharrington9772 2 роки тому +20

    Very good comments here! Only thing I would like to mention in addition is... When you arrive at at a customer that is is tight or difficult try your best to set up or position the truck to have the trailer pointed in the right direction before you start to back up. Make use of all the space you have.

  • @lance2530
    @lance2530 2 роки тому

    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.

  • @bryanwray6171
    @bryanwray6171 Рік тому

    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

  • @erynnerose3792
    @erynnerose3792 2 роки тому +7

    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!

  • @111day1
    @111day1 2 роки тому +6

    I’ve used driveway markers with reflectors on the back of my utility and open car trailers for a visual aid.

  • @GregJoshuaW
    @GregJoshuaW 2 роки тому +1

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

  • @stettan1754
    @stettan1754 10 місяців тому +1

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

  • @TheRealTLA
    @TheRealTLA 2 роки тому +28

    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 роки тому +3

      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.

  • @jimmarchman
    @jimmarchman 2 роки тому +3

    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.

  • @StrategicWealthLLC
    @StrategicWealthLLC Рік тому +3

    Great video. I’m not a trucker, but I admire expertise. Well done.

  • @lennyrey326
    @lennyrey326 Рік тому

    great advise, I used to be great when I was in the service backing up trailers, but after 40 yrs, I had forgotten.

  • @agentbullwinkle991
    @agentbullwinkle991 2 роки тому +8

    When I was training at Swift years ago, they got mad at me for bringing up this technique in the classroom, saying it was "too complicated".

  • @timmebruer5205
    @timmebruer5205 2 роки тому +6

    Been driving for 30 years and never used the hand at the bottom of the wheel.
    Never has a problem putting a trailer where I wanted it.
    To be fair I learned backing 4 wheel hay wagons on the farm at the age of 10
    That's a little tougher than a trailer

  • @kraven8864
    @kraven8864 Рік тому +6

    Wow… I can’t believe how simple that makes it. I feel a bit embarrassed that I’ve never figured that out. Thank you!
    And thank you to all truckers!!!

  • @robinlawson2145
    @robinlawson2145 2 роки тому +1

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