19
WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS AND LOADING
groSS train maSS (gtm)
If you are towing a trailer with your Bailey
motorhome the gross train mass is the MTPLM
of the towing vehicle plus the trailer and
the mass of every item carried. The GTM is
specified by the base vehicle manufacturer (AL-
KO) and is unaffected by the Bailey conversion.
maximum Braked trailer maSS (mBtm)
This is the maximum allowable weight of
the trailer together with its load, provided
the trailer has a braking system which
complies with the local Construction and Use
Regulations. The MBTM is given by the base
vehicle manufacturer (AL-KO) and is unaffected
by the Bailey conversion.
noSe weight
This is the static mass of the trailer towing
device on the rear of the towing vehicle.
• When measuring nose weight it is important
that the trailer is loaded.
• The trailer is intended to be towed slightly
nose heavy. The nose weight can be
adjusted by redistribution of the load.
The nose weight should be approximately
7% of the actual laden weight (but not
greater than the hitch capacity) and at
the same time must suit the motorhome
requirements.
advice on towing
The towing specification alters depending on
the vehicle’s weight.
When towing, the demands on both the driver
and the vehicle are increased. Manoeuvrability
is reduced together with the ability to climb
gradients and accelerate. Braking and vehicle
handling are also affected. Towing requires
sensible loading of both the motorhome and
the towed trailer.
• It is essential that the driver is alert at all
times.
• Pull over if you feel tired and get some rest.
• Brake in good time and take special care
when driving down steep gradients.
• Use your gears and change down before
going down a steep hill so that the engine
also acts as a brake.
• Ensure that the tyre pressures are correct
on both your motorhome and the towed
trailer.
• Regularly check the towed trailer’s brakes
and lights.
when loading the trailer
Ensure that the loads are properly secured for
transit:
• Position loads so that most of the weight
is placed close to the floor and, where
possible, immediately above or close to the
axle(s).
• Where the load can be divided between
the towed trailer and the motorhome it is
advisable to load more into the motorhome
as this will greatly increase the stability of
the combination.
• After loading always check the maximum
weight does not exceed the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
• Check the front and rear axle weights of the
motorhome are not exceeded due to loading
the trailer. The easiest way to do this is to
take the vehicle to a weighbridge.
• Do not exceed the motorhome gross vehicle
train weight.
• Do not exceed the maximum front and rear
axle loads on the motorhome.
• Only tow bars complying with 94/20/EC
should be fitted to the motorhome.
• The maximum permitted mass of an un-
braked trailer is 750kg.
• The maximum permitted vehicle
combination length is 18.75m. However,
any combination must ensure compliance
with the turning circle requirements of
Construction and Use regulations 1986 and
9 7/ 2 7/ E C .
Towing regulations vary depending
upon the country you are visiting. It
is important that you make yourself
aware of each country’s regulations
before you visit.
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