
Trailering Your Classic Car
Mark SimpsonIf you own a classic car, sooner or later you’ll need to trailer it. Whether it’s to get it off the road after a breakdown or simply to haul your project to the muffler shop to get exhaust bent up for it. Knowing the proper techniques will save you from a lot of heartache, frustration and expense.
Trailering a classic car requires careful planning and execution to ensure the vehicle’s safety and preservation. We join Mark Simpson and Pat Hazel as they demonstrate loading a classic Mustang onto an open trailer and properly securing the car to the trailer. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process and precautions to follow:
Process of Trailering a Classic Car
Choose the Right Trailer
– Enclosed trailer: Best for classic cars as it protects against weather, road debris, and prying eyes.
– Open trailer: Acceptable for short trips or low-risk environments, high profile and project cars, but offers minimal protection.
Inspect the Trailer
– Check tires (pressure and condition), lights, brakes, and hitch mechanism.
– Make sure the trailer is rated for the car’s weight and is structurally sound.
Prepare the Towing Vehicle
– Confirm towing capacity is adequate.
– Use a weight-distributing hitch and sway control if necessary.
– Ensure mirrors offer a clear view around the trailer.
Prepare the Classic Car
– Check for fluid leaks.
– Secure or remove loose parts (hubcaps, trim).
– Disable the alarm system and keep the fuel level low (to reduce weight and fire risk).
– Document the car’s condition with photos.
Load the Car
– Use loading ramps with a shallow incline to avoid scraping the underside.
– Center the car on the trailer for even weight distribution.
– Keep the car in gear (manual) or park (automatic), and use the parking brake.
Secure the Vehicle
– Use soft straps or axle straps with ratchet tie-downs to avoid damaging suspension, bodywork or brake lines.
– Secure at all four corners—preferably at the axles or designated tie-down points. Remember to secure the car below the suspension (i.e. wheels, axles and lower control ams)
– Apply equal tension on all straps and check clearance from the trailer sides and roof.
Final Checks
– Check all lights, brakes, and hitch connections before moving.
– Test drive a short distance and recheck the straps and connections.
Precautions to Take
– Avoid Over-tightening Straps: Can damage suspension or frame. Use just enough tension to prevent movement.
– Mind Low Ground Clearance: Use race ramps or low-angle ramps to prevent scraping.
– Protect from Elements (if using open trailer): Use a breathable car cover designed for towing.
– Drive Cautiously: Accelerate and brake gradually, avoid sudden maneuvers, and maintain moderate speeds.
– Stop Regularly: Every 50–100 miles, stop to inspect straps, tires, and hitch.