Digital Tongue-Weight Towbar
What: The SenZBar is a Class IV towbar that also measures tongue weight.
Why: That's important when determining if
your trailer is properly loaded for the tow-rig's capability.
Wallet: Right around $150
Where: SenZBar, 410/336-1351, www.senzbar.com
Protective Mudflaps
What: RoadWing has an "antisail" design to help keep mudflaps down, and double-bolt attachment points hold everything in place.
Why: How else are you going to deflect rocks, gravel, and road debris away from the trailer or the vehicle you're towing? The flaps slip over the ball mount or towbar stinger, and can be trimmed to fit pretty much anything. Available sizes range from 69 to 102 inches.
Wallet: Less than $250
Where: Roadmaster, 800/669-9690, www.roadmaster.com
Universal Towing Mirror
What: It will fit any existing mirror. Standard flat or wide angle are the glass options.
Why: You won't need tools for installation.
Wallet: About $30
Where: VisionView Mirror Products, 888/776-6758, www.visionviewmirrors.com
Weight-Distributing Hitch
What: SwayPro, designed to eliminate trailer sway from heavy loads, high winds, or rough roads. Four tongue weights are available:550, 750, 1,000, and 1,500 pounds.
Why: It has a Class IV rating.
Wallet: Starts at $625
Where: Blue Ox, 402/385-3051, www.blueox.us
Class V Receiver Hitch
What: The heavy-duty Power Pull Xtreme unit is rated for 12,000 pounds weight-carrying and 15,000 pounds weight-distributing capacity. It has all-steel construction and a 2 1/2-inch receiver opening.
Why: It's available for 3/4- and 1-ton pickups.
Wallet: About $400
Where: Valley Ind., 800/344-3112, www.valleyindustries.com
Wireless Tow Lights
What: Plug the transmitter into the four-way flat plug and attach the lights to magnetic mounts or mounting straps, and you're set with turn signals, brakelights, flashers, and so on.
Why: You don't need any tools to hook up this system.
Wallet: Around $150
Where: Wireless Tow Lights, 800/687-4940, www.wirelesstowlights.com
Tie-Downs
What: The Ultra Pack has four padded axle straps and four ratchet straps (2-inch beefy webbing) for towing a vehicle or equipment. Pick 6- or 8-foot lengths, and choose from a bunch of colors.
Why: There's even a free duffle bag thrown in for hauling the straps.
Wallet: MSRP is $149.99
Where: Mac's Custom Tie Downs, 800/666-1586, www.macscustomtiedowns.com