Towing vehicle’s rear suspension
It is important that the towing vehicle’s rear
suspension is not deflected excessively by
the nose weight on the tow ball. If it is
excessive the steering and stability will be
affected.
The greater the towing vehicle’s tail
overhang (the distance between the rear
axle and the tow ball) the greater the effect
the nose weight will have on the towing
vehicle’s rear suspension.
After trying out the caravan it may be found
that stiffening of the vehicle’s rear
suspension is necessary - note that this may
give the towing vehicle a firmer ride when
not towing.
There are a number of suspension aids
available and advice should be sought on
which to use and how to fit.
It is important to ensure that the caravan is
towed either level or slightly nose down.
This is particularly important on twin axle
models.
STABILITY
The most common causes of poor stability
include:
a) Worn springs or loose spring fixings on
the towing vehicle.
b) Towing vehicle springs too soft.
c) Insufficient nose weight.
d) Nose of caravan is towing too high.
e) Incorrect loading.
f) Incorrect tyre pressures on car or caravan.
Tyres and Pressures
The tyres fitted to your caravan will operate
with complete safety at the UK maximum
speed limit of 60 mph, but the tyres are
rated to 130 km/hr. The tyres on your
caravan must be operated at the pressures
indicated on the caravan’s specification
sheet. Remember that the towing vehicle
tyres should be inflated to the ‘heavy
loaded’ pressure given in the vehicle
manufacturers’ service handbook.
Note: Pressures should only be checked
when the tyres are cold, not after a
journey or if the vehicle has been
standing in the sun.
Tyre Tread
This caravan is subject to the same criteria
applied to car tyres, namely, the minimum
tread should be 1.6 mm around the total
circumference and across the entire width of
the tyre.
Brakes/Breakaway cable
A breakaway cable is fitted so that in the
case of the caravan becoming detached
from the car it immediately applies the
brakes. Always ensure the breakaway cable
is secured to the towing vehicle. See Page
20.
SNAKING
This is a term used to denote an unstable
car and caravan combination where the
caravan ‘weaves’ from side to side often
causing a similar swaying movement in the
car itself.
Causes:
I.
Unsuitable or unbalanced outfit.
II.
Incorrect loading or weight distribution.
III. Excessive speed especially downhill.
IV. Side winds.
V.
Overtaking.
VI. Being overtaken by a large fast moving
vehicle.
VII. Erratic driving.
VIII. Insufficient tyre pressure.
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PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
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