Before you tow, here’s what you must know

Are you in the market for a caravan or similar vehicle? Then it’s important you’re aware of the legal responsibilities involved with towing a caravan.

Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW has put together vital info about tow vehicle requirements when it’s time to get hitched.

In addition, there are plenty of handy hints for towing a caravan when you’re ready to get behind the wheel.

Important info about your tow vehicle

If you are going to buy a caravan or trailer, it is critical that you give careful consideration to your vehicle’s towing mass and construction prior to making your purchase.

You will find the towing mass (or towing rating) under the towing section in the vehicle manufacturer’s handbook. The rating will include a trailer weight capacity and a trailer ball weight capacity, both of which must not be exceeded. 

If the manufacturer has not stipulated a recommended tow mass, then the vehicle may tow one-and-a-half times its unladen mass, if the trailer has brakes. If no brakes are fitted, then 750kg is the maximum permissible towing capacity.

With regards to tow vehicles, the tow bar fitted must not exceed the capacity approved by the vehicle manufacturer. In some cases, some additional (strengthening) materials are supplied with the certified tow bar as part of the fitting kit. It may also be advisable to fit additional towing aids to enhance towing compatibility and safety.

These could include:

• Weight distribution hitches (sometimes colloquially called ‘level rides’). Seek expert advice on this type of equipment. Such devices should not be used with override brakes.
• Fitting load-levelling devices (frequently called weight-distributing hitches or level rides). These must not be used with override brakes.
• Fitting a suitable brake controller and connection: all trailers of 750kg gross trailer mass (GTM) or more must be fitted with brakes. Electric brakes are the most commonly used and require a brake controller, with appropriate connections to the trailer, to be fitted in the tow vehicle.
• Extra mirrors may need to be added to the tow vehicle when towing large trailers. It is a legal requirement that the driver has a clear and unobstructed view of the road to the rear of the vehicle, or vehicle combination, at all times.
• Fitting an extra transmission oil cooler for vehicles with automatic transmission. These are standard on some late-model vehicles.
• As some motor vehicle manufacturers limit the speed at which you can tow a trailer, always refer to the vehicle handbook.

Remember that towing a trailer or caravan will decrease your vehicle’s acceleration and braking performance. It will also reduce vehicle control and manoeuvrability, while increasing fuel consumption.

Your vehicle’s towing capacity is a factor of its engine size, brakes, weight, transmission, tyres, bearings, chassis, suspension, etc.

After taking these variables into account, the vehicle’s manufacturer establishes a recommended towing capacity, which is the legal maximum and must not be exceeded.

Top tips for drivers when towing a caravan

Apart from adding to the driver’s legal responsibilities, towing requires a greater degree of knowledge and skill than normal driving.

When towing, you should:

• Allow for the extra length and width of the trailer when entering traffic.
• Apply the accelerator, brakes, and steering smoothly and gently to avoid sway, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
• Maintain a space of at least 60m between you and the vehicle in front to allow for a longer stopping distance.
• Engage a lower gear in both manual and automatic vehicles to increase vehicle control.
• Allow more time and a greater distance in which to overtake. When towing, your vehicle’s capacity to accelerate is reduced.
• If possible, reverse with a person watching the rear of the trailer.
• Where areas are provided, pull off the road to allow traffic building up behind you to overtake.
• Be aware that towing is more stressful than normal driving and is more likely to cause fatigue. Therefore, more rest stops should be planned.

Isn’t it time you hit the road for a caravanning adventure? Book your BIG4 break now.

This information was republished with the permission of Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW.