Backing up your rig.

toolguy1964 wrote:
I use both when backing up. I think all RV', TT, 5ers and Toy Haulers should come standard with a backup camera and on units that are longer than say 35' should also have side view cameras.
Just my opinion.

Likewise I s do both. I use whatever method provides the best view. I am also not hesitant to just Get Out And Look!
There is no need to take an oath to using just one method

I use both when backing up. I think all RV', TT, 5ers and Toy Haulers should come standard with a backup camera and on units that are longer than say 35' should also have side view cameras.
Just my opinion.

It varies. It seems when my husband wants to put it right in he seems to use his mirrors. When he wants to be creative it seems like he looks backwards. That's when all the neighbors bring out their lawn chairs to watch the show. My only job is to let him know if he is going to hit something and tell him GOAL. We have fun with it.

I like the DBO acronym... Once I can see her in the mirror, I have my bride stand where she wants the left rear corner of the rig. I then back it into where she is standing. Of course she ensures I am clear all the way around. If she moves to get a better view of the other side, I stop backing until she returns. Also had to have a class on "Hand Signals" that I can see and understand while looking in the mirror. Good luck and safe travels!

Dirtclods wrote:
I'm tried to convince the wife it would be good for her to learn how to back the trailer in, but that would entail more b i t c h e n !!

HaHaHa!!!! I guess I was off a little in my post.

My wife doesn’t like driving my truck even without the trailer. She won’t even sit in the driver’s seat if the TH is connected.

My point was that she is my outside spotter. In fact, she is “Director of Backing Operations (DBO)” of the backing in process when she is available. This has many advantages over me being solely responsible:
1) If we’re not level and she rolls around at night - not my fault.
2) If we’re not close enough to the grass, patio area, septic, or to close to other RV’s – not my fault.
3) If we hit something – not my fault.
4) If above happens and repairs are required – not from my checkbook.

I’m at fault for enough problems without adding to them.

Hap

Ps: She is a very good DBO. I hope she doesn’t want a raise.

Jay Pat wrote:
I have electric outside mirrors. I point them anywhere I want to look.
If I'm backing up around a tight space, I will look back out my window or the right side backseat window.
I even get out and look. I might get out and look several times.
Whatever it takes.
I don't just backup blindly.
Protect your rig!!!!
Pat

I'm with you Pat....I get out, sometimes 2 or 3 times if I have to and check my surroundings. I too, use both my mirrors as I also have electric and telescoping mirrors and point them wherever I need to. People think I'm nuts getting in/out of the truck but I don't care. The last thing I want to do is mess up my $70k rig because I was too lazy to look.

I'm tried to convince the wife it would be good for her to learn how to back the trailer in, but that would entail more b i t c h e n !!

I guess Im missing something in this conversation. It sounds like people are making a case for which is the best way to back up a trialer, like there is only one correct method.

I use every tool available as dictated by the situation. I turn my head and look over either shoulder or both, I run my mirrors in-n-out and up and down. I get out and check when I'm alone and use the wife when she's with me. We also have handheld radios if needed.

Part of getting in and settled includes getting level and properly positioned. The wife is really good at getting that process completed with minimum effort.

During that phase she's in charge and I follow her directions. The sooner we're in and settled the sooner we can act like adults out-of-control.

Cheers
Hap

sin cal hd wrote:
I close my eyes and rely on my wife. She's always right.:B

You too!

jake2250 wrote:
My method; G.O.A.L---Mirrors-----G.O.A.L----Mirrors--G.O.A.L===Drink!!

Some folks might not know what GOAL means.

Get Out And Look.