The Towing Code
17
Fig. A Reversing
REVERSING
When the towing vehicle is reversing, the
overrun device shaft is pushing in, applying
the brakes via the overrun lever, brake rod
system, bowden cables and the expander
mechanism.
The backwards rotation of the brake drum
causes the secondary brake shoe to collapse
cancelling out the braking effect, allowing the
trailer to move backwards. At the same time
the transmission lever swings back and
compensates for the entire travel.
When reversing up a slope or on a loose
surface the brakes may apply themselves,
Correct maintenance and set up of the
brakes will help prevent this. Incorrect
adjustment of the wheel brakes or Linkages
will result in making reversing difficult.
Proficiency at reversing can only be achieved
with practice and should be first attempted in
a large open area (Fig. A).
SPEED LIMITS
Normal road towing: 50mph
Motorways (including dual carriageways):
60mph
CARAVAN HANDLING
Allow for caravan being wider than car.
Do not bump kerb with caravan wheels.
When passing other vehicles allow more than
the normal clearance for driving solo.
Allow longer to get up speed to pass.
Allow for the outfit being twice its normal
length.
Do not suddenly swing out.
Carry out all manoeuvres as smoothly as
possible.
Use nearside wing mirror to check caravan
has cleared when overtaking.
WARNING: Take care not to foul or
ground caravan chassis whilst
traversing ramps or other obstacles.
IMPORTANT POINTS ESPECIALLY
FOR MOTORWAY DRIVING
1. Caravans may not be towed in the out-
side lane of a three or four lane motor-
way. (Reg. 12(2) of the Motorway Traffic
[England and Wales] Regulations 1982).
2. Reduce Speed:
i) In high or cross winds.
ii) Downhill.
iii) In poor visibility.
3. High sided vehicles cause air buffeting so
extra care must be taken when passing or
being passed. As much space as
possible should be given.
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