Explorer Group 2005 AVANTE, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 7 / 133

PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
Before venturing out on to the road with
your touring caravan, it is important that
you prepare correctly.
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.
Do not overload your caravan in excess of
the permissible total weight (MTPLM).
Please refer to the technical specification
for your particular model shown in
Section 15 of this handbook.
INTERNAL LOADING & CHECKS
When loading your caravan it is advisable
to distribute items evenly over the axle
and as low as possible to optimize road
holding and achieve the best possible
braking effect. Do not overload on one
side as this will cause the caravan to lean
and affect the road holding and stability.
• Do not stow tins, bottles or heavy items
in overhead lockers when towing.
• Loose articles should be stowed
securely to avoid movement and
possible damage.
Once fully loaded with your equipment
you should ensure that:
• All lockers and cupboard doors are
closed and secured.
• All bunks are secure (if appropriate).
• The main dining table is stored in its
transit position.
• If any fresh food is stored in the fridge
that it is set for 12v operation and that
the door is locked.
• All windows and rooflights are fully
closed and locked. Never tow with
windows on night setting.
• 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
• Gas cylinders should only be stored,
correctly positioned, and secured in
the gas bottle locker. The gas should
be turned off.
• The leisure battery is stored and
secured in the battery locker box, set
into the tray provided and secured.
• Any external connections (battery
chargers, connecting cables etc),
should be disconnected and stowed.
• Check that all exterior locker doors are
secure and locked.
• Secure and lock the caravan door.
PRE-TOW CHECKLIST & HITCH-UP
Having loaded the touring caravan and
secured the lockers and main entrance
door:
• Check touring caravan wheel nuts, tyre
pressures and tyre condition.
• Ensure the jockey wheel is down, in
good contact with the ground, clamp
tightly secured, and the caravan hand
brake is fully on.
• Wind up the corner steadies.
6
Preparing For The Road