Towing Issues

Shermzy23 · #1 (**permalink**) 08-03-2007, 05:05 PM

I have an FJ Cruiser and I just bought a new toy that I am towing behind my FJ. I knew my FJ has insane blind spots, but I've learned to deal with it during regular driving. Now that I'm towing, it's even worse. I can't see ANYTHING when I'm backing up. I have no idea where the trailer is going (it's a small, single pwc trailer). I know I can have a spotter outside guiding me, but it's even hard to see a spotter. Has anybody else had this problem? Does anybody know where to get FJ towing side view mirror extentions or anything? Any suggestions are appreciated.

Mung · #2 (**permalink**) 08-06-2007, 03:02 PM

The solution I've seen, not just for FJs, but any boat trailer that can be hard to see, even over the bed of a pickup, is to put tall PVC guide poles on the sides. Some folks stick them in/on the bar that holds up the brake/turn lights.

CACressida · #3 (**permalink**) 08-12-2007, 04:37 AM

If you think driving a FJ with a boat is terrible, try driving a semi truck.

petitbois · #4 (**permalink**) 09-25-2007, 03:34 PM

I tow a 21' boat and though it's a very wide trailer, viewing it as I back up is a pain with the FJ. When I can see, I can back the trailer into some very tight spots, and having a spotter isn't always possible.
My solution? Since my trailer has a bolt-on post for the winch, and since the tongue weight was pretty heavy anyhow, I moved the post back 6 inches on the tongue.
As a result, the tongue weight is more reasonable, but more importantly, when I lock the back door in its open position, I can see quite well. The door misses the winch post and unless I turn the trailer to a sharp angle the tip of the bow is not a problem with the open door. Straight-on, the door can be closed or opened without interference.
In a related thread last year I commented on how easy it is to hook up to my trailer: I jack up the front seat to the highest position, and tip the driver's side passenger seatback forward. With the rear door locked open, I can see the ball and place it exactly under the hitch on one try everytime. A shorter person might not have the same angle of viewing: I'm 6 feet.
However, with the other boat, the winch post has not been moved (yet) and backing up with the door open is an invitation to crush it on the boat itself.
I do plan to install posts on the trailer frame for better sighting when backing up.
I recently borrowed an 8 foot bed trailer, and backing up such a short invisible trailer made me feel like a complete novice.