RE: [A/S] Learn to tow, Taxes

["Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Rita,

The clever folks in California have created a "sales tax" which is not a
true sales tax (which would be unconstitutional under federal law in the
case of interstate commerce).  To get around this, that tax is technically a
"use tax"

When you register the vehicle (be it automobile, truck or trailer, etc.) the
DMV is right there to collect the tax before you get your registration. Note
too, that the annual registration fee is based on the value of the vehicle -
not on the "load" it puts on the state's roads, etc.

Of course you could register it in South Dakota (assuming you have a
residence there) and minimize your tax, registration fee, and insurance.

So far as learning how to tow a trailer, you could always rent a utility
trailer and practice on the weekend at a school parking lot.  Be sure to get
a LONG one, (whose distance from the trailer wheels to the hitch is
comparable to your future Airstream).  Short wheelbase trailers are very
difficult to back up since they jack knife easily because their turning
radius is shorter than that of the tow vehicle.

Going forward with a trailer is fairly easy.  The trailer will follow the
path of the tow vehicle quite nicely (unless you make very sharp turns near
curb corners).  You will quickly get the hang of giving sufficient room to
accomodate the additional width of the trailer, and making more "gentle
turns."

Oliver Filippi