Lesson 1Trailer braking systems: surge brakes, electric brakes, breakaway switch and battery checksThis part covers trailer brakes and pre-trip checks. You'll compare surge and electric types, test breakaway switches and batteries, and set controllers for good stopping power.
Identifying surge vs electric brake systemsVisual inspection of brake hardwareTesting electric brake controller outputChecking breakaway switch and lanyardBreakaway battery charge and wiringLesson 2Simple load-rating calculation examples: tongue weight percentage, gross trailer weight vs tow vehicle capacityThis part gives easy load calculations for towing. You'll work out tongue weight percentage, compare trailer weight to tow limits, using real examples to stay under safe levels.
Estimating gross trailer weight from cargoCalculating tongue weight percentage rangeComparing GTW to tow vehicle capacityChecking axle and tire load distributionUsing scales to verify actual weightsLesson 3Pre-departure checklist routine and how to record checks (forms and photos)This part teaches a proper pre-go checklist. You'll do a walk-around, check key items, and record with forms and photos for maintenance and to show you did it right.
Designing a step‑by‑step walk‑aroundUsing printed or digital checklist formsTaking photos of key inspection pointsRecording defects and corrective actionsStoring records for audits and resaleLesson 4Trailer-specific components: tyres, bearings, seals, spare, wheel nuts torqueThis part covers checking trailer tyres, wheels, and running gear. You'll look at tyre age and pressure, wheel nut tightness, bearings, seals, and the spare to stop blowouts, hot hubs, and wheel problems on the road.
Checking tire size, load index, and speed ratingSetting cold inflation pressure for towingInspecting tread, sidewalls, and tire ageWheel nut torque checks and retorque stepsBearing and seal inspection and lubricationLesson 5Lighting and electrical checks: headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights, wiring harnessThis part checks lights and electrics for visibility. You'll test headlights, marker and tail lights, indicators and brake lights, and check wiring and earths to avoid faults.
Testing headlights and auxiliary lightsChecking tail, marker, and license lightsTurn signal and brake light operationInspecting trailer plug, socket, and wiringGround connections and corrosion controlLesson 6Fluid and engine checks: oil, coolant, transmission fluid, power steering, windscreen washerThis part details engine bay and fluid checks before towing. You'll verify oil, coolant, transmission fluid, power steering, and washer fluid, spotting leaks or overheating risks under load.
Engine oil level, condition, and top‑offCoolant level, strength, and hose inspectionAutomatic transmission fluid checksPower steering fluid and assist systemsWindshield washer fluid and spray patternLesson 7Brake system check: service brakes, parking brake, trailer brake controller settingsThis part focuses on brakes for the full setup. You'll check service and parking brakes, set the trailer brake controller, and test at low speed for even, straight stops.
Checking pedal feel and brake warning lightsParking brake hold test on a gradeAdjusting trailer brake controller gainTesting trailer brakes at low speedRecognizing brake fade and imbalanceLesson 8Towing vehicle pre-trip checks: tyres, tread depth, inflation, spare tyre conditionThis part explains checks for the tow vehicle before you go. You'll inspect tyre condition, tread depth, pressure, and spare, making sure it's ready for the extra trailer weight.
Inspecting tow vehicle tire tread depthChecking sidewalls for cuts and bulgesSetting correct tire pressures for towingSpare tire condition and access toolsQuick under‑hood and underbody scanLesson 9Documents and signs: VIN, registration, insurance, placards for heavy loadsThis part covers papers and ID needed for legal towing. You'll check VIN plates, registration, insurance, and placards or stickers for heavy or risky loads, including weight and size marks.
Locating and reading VIN plates and stickersVerifying registration and insurance papersWeight, dimension, and capacity placardsSpecial placards for hazardous materialsStoring documents for roadside inspectionLesson 10Match vehicle and trailer ratings: GVWR, GCWR, hitch class, tongue weight limits, payload vs cargo massThis part shows how to match tow vehicle and trailer ratings to stay safe. You'll read GVWR, GAWR, GCWR, hitch class, tongue weight, and payload to avoid overloads and handling issues.
Reading VIN and weight rating labelsUnderstanding GVWR, GAWR, and GCWRHitch class ratings and receiver limitsTongue weight limits and distributionPayload vs cargo and passenger massLesson 11Trailer structural check: frame, floor, axle, suspension, coupling points, rust and bendsThis part looks at the trailer's strong points. You'll inspect frame, crossmembers, floor, axles, suspension, couplers, and safety chains for cracks, rust, bends, or loose bits that could cause failure.
Inspecting frame rails and crossmembersChecking floor panels and deck fastenersAxle alignment, mounts, and U‑boltsSuspension springs, bushings, and hangersCoupler, latch, and safety chain conditionLesson 12Mirrors, camera systems, and field of view checks for towing setupsThis part explains setting up mirrors and cameras for towing. You'll adjust side mirrors, fit extensions if needed, set rear and side cameras, and check blind spots for safe lane changes and reversing.
Adjusting side mirrors for trailer widthUsing clip‑on or replacement tow mirrorsConfiguring rear and side camera viewsChecking blind spots and overlap zonesField of view checks before departure
