Loading the caravan
Correct loading of the caravan plays an important part in how it tows.
Keep the centre of gravity low by putting heavy items near the floor and where possible over the axle/s.
When packing a caravan for the first time it is wise to accurately check that its ATM / GTM and Ball Load is not exceeded and that all of the tow vehicles towing specifications are within the manufacturers limits. The vehicle’s tow bar specifications must also be considered.
Should the Ball Load of the caravan exceed the vehicle manufacturers limits, re-stowing the contents of the caravan may correct the problem. However, care must be taken to ensure that the caravan does not become ‘tail heavy’, by moving too much weight to the rear, as this will adversely affect its stability.
If re-stowing / reducing the contents is unsuccessful and the maximum allowable loads are still exceeded, you should seek expert help from either the caravan manufacturer or a caravan repairer. Ultimately however, the only viable solution may be to change the caravan / tow vehicle combination.
Some caravans are built with a greater weight on one side, due to the location of the refrigerator, cooking equipment, sink, etc. This should be equalised by loading portable equipment and possessions on the opposite side.
Once a satisfactory load pattern is developed it is important to stow everything in the same position each time you reload the caravan.
Removing unnecessary items and using lightweight items wherever possible will reduce the caravan’s weight and assist in saving fuel. Unless you are headed for a waterless area or don’t like bore or mineral water for drinking, don’t carry large quantities of water as it only adds to the caravan’s weight.
A small quantity of water in the caravan’s tank can be handy in an emergency however.
Rubber matting or foam on shelves will prevent the contents from sliding. Glassware and other breakables should be wrapped in towels or newspapers for protection. Where possible, consider using plastic items as they are lighter and less likely to break.
Do not leave loose articles on the floor where they can roll around and cause damage.
Food and equipment you will want when you first stop should be stored within easy reach.
Carry all the tools and equipment you need for hitching and unhitching in one section of the boot of your car or the caravan’s boot.
Load Levelling devices
Load levelling devices redistribute the load between the front and rear axles of the tow vehicle and can greatly improve the combinations stability, steering response and braking. Load levelling devices DO NOT reduce the Ball Load of the caravan.
They should only be used on tow bars and vehicles that are intended for them. The use of load levelling devices on vehicles not intended for them may result in structural failure of the tow vehicle or the tow bar.
Always seek professional advice before fitting load levelling devices.
Extension mirrors
Where the driver of a towing vehicle is unable to see a following vehicle about to overtake (on either side), it is necessary to fit adequate external rear vision mirrors.
Hitching up
Hitching the car to the caravan can be as easy or as difficult as you and your assistant make it.
There are a few hitching aids on the market which can help with driver-only hitching. See your local caravan accessories shop for more information.
When a driver and assistant are doing the job, there are a few basic helpful rules:
- Warm up the towing vehicle’s engine and transmission by taking it for a short drive. Leaving the engine idling in the van park to warm it up may annoy other residents with its noise and exhaust fumes.
- Make sure the van brake is applied and the van’s corner stabilisers are raised.
- Using the jockey wheel, ensure the front of the van is raised high enough to allow the tow ball to pass under the coupling.
- Practice and agree on any hand signals that will be used by the assistant.
- Make sure the assistant doesn’t stand where they could be hurt if the car reverses suddenly.
- Once the tow ball is in place under the coupling, lower the jockey wheel to mate the parts, make safety chain, electrical, load levelling hitch and brake connections (as applicable) and remove or stow the jockey wheel.
- Release the trailer’s handbrake.
A final check
Before taking to the road at any time, ensure that:
- Corner stabilisers are up and jockey wheel is stowed.
- Coupling lock mechanism is firmly fixed. Safety chains are attached. Brake coupling / wiring is connected.
- Light wiring has been connected to the car and the operation of the lights has been checked.
- Tyre pressures of car and van are correct.
- Wheel chocks are removed.
- Windows and hatches are closed and locked.
- Van step is retracted. Electricity lead, water and sullage hoses are disconnected and stowed.
- The interior has been checked to ensure cupboard doors are closed and movable objects are packed to prevent sliding around. Gas has been turned off and fridge turned over to 12v supply if fitted. Note: Any gas pilot light must be turned off when refuelling the towing vehicle.
- The TV antenna is removed or retracted.
- Caravan door is locked and safely latched.
- Ensure the roll-out awning is retracted and fully locked.
- Outside rear vision mirrors have been adjusted and the windscreen has been cleaned.
The information provided in this fact sheet is intended as a general guide only. You should carry out further research and investigations into the topics outlined above prior to implementing any actions or recommendations.
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