3-1
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
Before venturing out on to the road with your
touring caravan, it is important that you prepare
correctly.
CARAVAN TOWING VEHICLE WEIGHT
RATIO
This ratio has a major influence on stability. It is
recommended that:
(i) The laden nose weight for your caravan
should not exceed the lower of the
following:
*Towing vehicles maximum nose weight,
*Tow bar maximum nose weight
* The caravan’s maximum nose weight,
which is 100/150kgs depending on model.
(ii) The actual laden weight of the caravan
should always be kept as light as possible.
The lighter it is whilst being towed on a
road, the safer the outfit combination will
be.
(iii) The Caravan Club recommends a maximum
caravan/towing vehicle weight ratio of (85%
for beginners and up to 100% for
experience) of the towing vehicle’s kerb
weight providing both are properly
maintained, fully serviceable and the other
recommendations in this Handbook are
followed.
(iv) The greater the actual laden weight of the
caravan in relation to the kerb weight of the
towing vehicle the more careful and
experienced the driver needs to be and the
lower the speed at which instability could
occur.
WARNING: It is strongly recommended
the loaded weight of the caravan does not
exceed the kerb weight of the towing
vehicle.
NOSE WEIGHT INDICATOR JOCKEY
WHEEL (Option only)
This can be used to give guidance on the actual
nose weight your caravan is applying to your car’s
tow ball.
Please note that this should only be used as a
guide. For information on how to use the nose
weight indicator please go to the section on ‘How
To Use Your Caravan’s Equipment’.
LOADING
Always lower and secure the jockey wheel and
the four corner steadies (with the brace
provided) before entering the caravan. This will
ensure that the caravan does not tip up when you
are inside.
Please Note: Corner steadies should not be
used as a jacking device.
Internal Loading & Checks
When loading your caravan it is advisable to:
(i) Distribute items evenly over the axle and as
low as possible to optimize road holding and
achieve the best possible braking effect.
(ii) Do not overload on one side as this will
cause the caravan to lean and affect the road
holding and stability.
(iii) Do not stow tins, bottles or heavy items in
overhead lockers when towing.
(iv) Loose articles should be stowed securely to
avoid movement and possible damage.
(v) Ensure that all lockers and cupboard doors
are closed and secured.
(vi) Secure all bunks (if appropriate).
(vii) Store the main dining table in its transit
position.
(viii) Set the refrigerator for 12V operation if any
fresh food is stored in it and ensure the
door is locked.
(ix) Fully close and lock all windows and
rooflights. Never tow with windows on
night setting.
(x) Leave all curtains and blinds open to prevent
damage in transit. If your caravan has a rear
window this may aid visibility.
External Loading & Checks
(i) Gas cylinders should only be stored,
correctly positioned, and secured in the gas
bottle locker. The gas should be turned off.
(ii) The leisure battery is stored and secured in
the battery locker box, set into the tray
provided and secured.
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