17-4
GLOSSARY
Payload
The amount you can put into a caravan.
Specifically the difference between the
Maximum Technical Permissible Laden Mass
(MTPLM) and the Mass In Running Order
(MIRO).
PDI
This is an inspection undertaken by the
Retailer prior to handover to the customer.
Pitch
A designated area of a caravan site allocated
for the use of one outfit. Most sites will be
arranged with defined pitches.
Propane
Gas used in colder conditions and is usually
supplied in red cylinders.
RCD
This is a residual current device and is part of
the electrical system which will ‘trip’ if there is
an electrical fault.
Gas Regulator
Safety device fitted between the gas cylinder
and the gas system of a caravan, which
controls the pressure of gas being released
from the cylinder.
Road Lights
The external lights used while the vehicle is
travelling.
Roof Lights - See Roof Vent.
Roof Vent
Is an opening unit in the ceiling which lets in
ventilation and light, these vary in size, but
the best ones will have integral blinds and
flyscreens and are also called rooflights.
Semi-Rigid Pipe work
Is water pipes made of a semi rigid plastic
and are infinitely preferable to cheaper
convoluted piping which can act as a trap for
germs and smells.
Single Axle
This is a caravan with a single pair of wheels
on one axle. See also twin axle.
Slats
Sometimes used for beds and can improve
ventilation to mattress cushions.
Space Heater
This is a type of heating equipment for the
living quarters. Modern units fitted offer gas
and mains-operation.
Speed Rating
This is the maximum speed at which a tyre
may be used, as marked on its sidewall.
Stabiliser
A safety device which helps to prevent
instability, this is done by increasing the
friction between the caravan hitch and the
tow ball.
Steady Winder
A handle for operating the corner steadies.
Torque Wrench
A form of spanner used to set nuts and bolts
to a specified degree of tightness. It is
recommended for adjustment of wheel fixings
on caravans.
Towing Limit
See manufacturer’s braked towing limit and
manufacturer’s unbraked towing limit.
Towing Mirrors
Additional rear vision mirrors added to a
towing vehicle to provide a greater width of
view to see past a caravan.
Train Weight
The maximum permissible combined weight
of tow car and touring caravan.
Twin Axle
Is a caravan with two pairs of wheels, on two
axles which are located close together.
These are usually the larger, heavier
caravans, where the second axle helps carry
the greater weight more easily, and also
makes a longer caravan more stable to tow.
See also single axle.
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