Caravanning

Caravanning

1. Buying the van

• Be aware of your ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) – the total laden weight of the caravan including payload. If exceeded insurance and warranty may be void.
• The dealer should advise the type of towing equipment & tow bar suitable for your van.
• Understand Ball Weight – the impact of the weight of the van on the towing vehicle. Usually Australian design vans have between 10% and 15% of total van weight on the tow ball with a gross trailer mass allowance of 300kg on a single axle and 400kg for a tandem model.
• What maximum weight can your vehicle tow? Check your vehicle plate.
• What is your vans recommended tyre pressure? On average about 15kpa above normal.

2. Understanding driving alterations when towing your van

• Acceleration is slower.
• Braking is slower and increases stopping distance. However, most new vans are fitted with electronic brakes requiring the tow vehicle to have a brake controller fitted.
• When travelling downhill a lower gear must be used. This gives better control and reduces the load on your brakes.
• Accelerator, brake and steering must be smoother to avoid sway or “snaking” causing loss of control.

Click here for more information about Towing Safely

3. Safety on the road – for you and others

• The increased braking distance means that an increased distance between yourself and any other vehicle is essential for safety.
• Allow for increased time and distance required when overtaking due to larger overall rig length.
• Allow for a wider berth when turning due to increase in overall vehicle length.
• Parking is seen as the most difficult exercise but practice makes perfect. Try using a guide to avoid accidents.
• Be aware of height restrictions, especially if your van is higher than your vehicle.
• Remember that driving tired can kill. Take regular breaks to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

4. Weather conditions

• High winds may mean loss of control. Serious accidents can occur if your van is top heavy.
• Wet Roads.
• Drivers must heed any “Dangerous Crosswinds” signs. Gusts may affect the stability of the caravan.

5. Packing your van correctly

• Pack heavy items at floor  level with particular weighty items over the axle.
• Place light items is elevated cupboards to avoid being top heavy.
• Ensure all items are secured so nothing becomes lose and moves around the van whilst in motion.

6. Helpful accessories

• Extended mirrors are needed  to see behind the van.
• Brake controller – activates  the vans brakes simultaneously with the brakes of the towing vehicle.
• Necessary tools required to  fit parts on your van and any spares you have.
• A fire extinguisher is essential.

7. Special requirements for different vans

• Van is wider than 2.1m: Side lights are required for night driving.
• Van weighs over 2 tons ATM: A breakaway system is required.
• Automatic vehicles should  use manual control in a low gear when climbing / descending steep slopes.
• Up to 2.5 tons Gross Vehicle Mass: One safety chain is required.
• Between 2.5 to 4.5 tons Gross Vehicle Mass: Two safety chains are required.

8. General checklist before the trip

• Wheel Bearings – Grasp the tyres & rock firmly. Is there excessive movement?
• Load Mass & Weight – Does the suspension look right, properly distributed & balanced? Is it below the weight limit?
• Brakes & Brake Fluid – Do they function correctly? Are your brake fluid levels correct?
• Handbrake – Has the handbrake on the caravan / trailer been correctly released?
• Tyre Inflation – Are your tyres correctly inflated to suit your van?
• Caravan / Trailer Coupling – Are trailer coupling and safety chain/s securely fastened?
• Crossed Safety Chains – If 2 safety chains are fitted cross them to prevent the draw bar from contacting the road if the trailer becomes disconnected.
• Awnings – Is the roll-out awning stored away and locked in position?
• Jockey Wheel – Remove jockey wheel from clamp and store in boot or lock in travelling position.
• Stabilisers – Are the front & rear stabilisers in up position? Stow the winder in a safe place.
• Pop-tops / Camper Trailers – Ensure that all pop-top  & camper trailer roof clips are in place.
• Gas Cylinders – Check gas levels &  that all cylinders are turned off.

NO ONE IS PERMITTED TO RIDE INSIDE THE VAN.