elddis 2011 Xplore 302, Owner'S Handbook Manual

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3-1
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
Before venturing out on to the road with your
Xplore 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 100kgs
(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%
of the towing vehicle’s kerb weight providing
both are properly maintained, fully
serviceable and the other recommendations
in this Handbook are followed.
(iv) Whilst you can legally tow at a higher
weight ratio than 85% (subject to
manufacturers’ towing limits and driving
license restrictions) towing a heavier
caravan will increase the risk of instability,
especially at higher speeds.
(v) 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.
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.
(iii) Any external connections (battery chargers,
connecting cables etc), should be
disconnected and stowed.
(iv) Check that all exterior locker doors are
secure and locked.
(v) Secure and lock the main caravan entrance
door.
(vi) Ensure the water heater flue cowl is in
place.