Bailey Caravan, Руководство пользователя

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2-2
2
Caravan & Tow Vehicle
MAYBE
NO
YES
85%
2.2.1 Measurement of nose weight
Nose weight may be measured using a proprietary brand of nose weight indicator. Such equipment is
obtainable from your Bailey Dealer.
Another simple method is to use bathroom scales and a suitable piece of strong timber as a platform to
rest the tow hitch on. The timber can be placed vertically between the caravan tow hitch and the
bathroom scales. The timber should be of such length that when the caravan tow hitch is lowered onto
it, using the jockey wheel, the caravan floor is horizontal. The weight can then be measured. When
taking the measurement the jockey wheel should be raised and the corner steadies lowered until they
are just clear of the ground.
Kerb Weight : The weight of the towing vehicle as defined by the vehicle manufacturer.
This is normally: With a full tank of fuel
With an adequate supply of other liquids incidental to the vehicles propulsion
Without drivers or passengers
Without any load except loose tools and equipment with which the vehicle is normally
provided
Without any towing bracket
2.2.2 The caravan to towing vehicle weight ratio
This can be determined by calculation and is equal to:
actual laden mass of caravan
x 100%
kerb weight of towing vehicle
As a general guide.
i. Conventional petrol engines with a capacity
up to approximately 1600cc petrol or 1800cc
diesel should be adequate for towing a
caravan weighing around 85% of the kerb
weight of the towing vehicle.
ii. Above 1600cc petrol or 1800cc diesel such
engines should manage a caravan weighing
up to 100% of the kerb weight of the towing
vehicle and still give adequate performance.
The towing vehicle manufacturer’s towing limit is,
in some cases, less than the kerb weight.
Vehicles with automatic transmission may need an
oil cooler fitted or the SAE rating of the gearbox
fluid increased when towing. The advice of the
vehicle manufacturer should be sought.
The law requires that caravans & their towing vehicles & the loads they carry must be in such a condition
that no danger or nuisance is caused. (Regulation 100 of the Road Vehicles [Construction and Use]
Regulations 1986).
2.2.3 Towing vehicle’s rear suspension
It is important that the towing vehicle’s rear suspension is not deflected excessively by the noseweight
on the tow ball. If it is excessive the steering and stability will be affected and at night the headlight
beam is likely to dazzle other drivers which is illegal.
EQUAL