TOWING CODE
17
GLOSSARY AND CHECKLIST
Driving licence
In order to be able to tow a caravan a driver
must hold a Category B licence.
If you passed your car test before 1 January
1997 you are generally entitled to drive a
vehicle and trailer combination up to 8.25
tonnes maximum authorised mass (MAM)
If you passed your driving test after 1 January
1997 and have an ordinary category B licence,
you can:
- Drive a vehicle up to 3.5 tonnes or 3,500kg
MAM towing a trailer of up to 750kg MAM
- Tow a trailer over 750kg MAM as long as it
is no more than the unladen weight of the
towing vehicle (with a combined weight of up
to 3,500kg in total)
From 19 January 2013, drivers passing a
category B licence can tow:
- Small trailers weighing no more than 750kg
- Trailers weighing more than 750kg, where the
combined weight of the towing vehicle and
the trailer is not more than 3,500kg MAM
If you want to tow a trailer weighing more
than 750kg, when the combined weight of
the towing vehicle and trailer is more than
3,500kg, you will need to pass a further test to
obtain a B+E category licence.
Glossary & checklist
Awnings - Can consist of just a simple top
sheet but may extend to a five sided frame
tent attached to the side of the caravan.
Fire blanket - approved to BS 6575 is ideal
for dealing with ‘fat pan’ fires.
Fire extinguisher - It is strongly
recommended that a fire extinguisher is carried
in the caravan. (For suitable types see Safety
and Security).
Gas bottles - Bottled L.P. gas is the most
convenient portable source of fuel. Two bottles
are required for a constant supply.
An initial deposit is payable on each cylinder.
We recommend the use of 6kg Calor Light
Propane bottles. One position for use and one
for storage only. (For detailed information see
Services - Gas).
Jack - A suitable jack is essential (screw,
scissor, side mounted or air jack type).
Many car jacks are unsuitable. Ensure the
lifting capacity of the jack is suitable for your
caravan.
Levellers - Levellers help level the caravan
from side to side before unhitching. Proprietary
products can be purchased from your caravan
dealer and need to be positioned as indicated
by a spirit level.
Spare Wheel - It is always advisable to carry
a spare wheel with your caravan.
Spirit Level - A spirit level is extremely useful
when siting the caravan.
Stabiliser - Stabilisers help to dampen the
side to side movement of the caravan.
Torque Wrench - A torque wrench is the only
way that the exact recommended torque can
be achieved for wheel nuts and bolts. (See
Preparing for the Road).
Towing Bracket - Never use cheap
alternatives, obtain one manufactured by
a reputable company complying with the
relevant standards.
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General