Towing
Tips
Apart from adding to the driver’s legal responsibilities, towing a
trailer of any discipline requires a greater degree of knowledge and
skill. All trailers including caravans, camper trailers, 5th wheelers
and tent trailers effect the performance of the towing vehicle. They
effect fuel consumption, acceleration, braking ability, general control
and manoeuvrability.
These effects worsen as the size and weight of the trailer increase
relative to that of the towing vehicle. The extra length and width can
be hard to manage, with wind, road conditions and passing vehicles
having a greater effect than on the vehicle alone. This places
additional responsibilities on the driver.
WHEN TOWING YOU SHOULD:
« Be aware that towing is more stressful
than normal driving and is more likely
to cause fatigue. Therefore, more rest
stops should be planned.
« Allow for the extra length and width of
the trailer when entering traffic.
« Avoid sudden lane changes and
changes of direction.
« Ensure that you do not have people
riding in the trailer or caravan. This is
not permitted by law.
« When travelling downhill engage a lower
gear in both manual and automatic
vehicles to increase vehicle control and
reduce brake strain.
« Apply the accelerator, brakes and
steering smoothly and gently to avoid
sway, especially in wet or slippery
conditions.
« When reversing it is advisable to have
someone outside the vehicle helping
with directions.
« If your caravan begins to sway or snake,
remain calm and avoid the urge to apply
the towing vehicle’s brakes. Don’t try
to steer out of the swaying /snaking,
alternatively hold the vehicle steady
and try to stay in the lane. Gently apply
the caravan’s electric brakes using
the manual control. Otherwise, where
conditions permit, continue at a steady
speed or accelerate slightly until the
sway stops.
« When the swaying has been corrected,
slow down and pull off the road safely.
Check that your load is correctly
distributed, making sure that heavier
items are placed over the axles of the
caravan. A caravan that doesn’t have
the load distributed correctly may not
handle well and may be the cause of
swaying/snaking.
« To reduce sway, heavy loads should
be concentrated towards the centre
of the trailer. It is important to not
overload your trailer and you should
not exceed the maximum load
specified or recommended by the trailer
manufacturer. « The minimum braking system required for
a trailer or caravan depends on its type
and weight, as well as the weight of the
tow vehicle:
« Weight Distribution Hitches can be used
when towing and help the vehicle to
retain normal suspension height and
effective steering control. They also help
to transfer some of the weight from the
towbar to the front and rear suspension
of the vehicle. – 751- 2,000kgs GTM: There must be
a braking system on the wheels of at
least one axle and over-ride brakes are
permitted.
« If the vehicle manufacturer has not
specified the maximum towing mass,
the maximum towing mass is:
– one and a half times the unladen
mass of the towing vehicle, provided
that the trailer is fitted with brakes
which are connected and in working
order
OR
– the unladen mass of the towing
vehicle if the trailer does not require
brakes.
« According to the Australian Design
Rules, all trailers over 750kg Gross
Vehicle Mass (GTM) irrespective of the
towing capacity, or unladen mass of
the tow vehicle, must have an effective
brake system fitted. All brakes must be
operable from the driver’s seat of the
tow vehicle except for over-ride brakes.
1
THE NATIONAL RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
TOWING GUIDE
[ EDITION 8 ]
The National Recreational Vehicle Towing Guide
40
Map 4
Shoalhaven North
BRAKING SYSTEM
– Up to 750kgs GTM: No brakes are
required
– Over 2,000kgs GTM: A brake system
operating on all wheels is required
and must be capable of automatically
activating should the trailer become
detached from the tow vehicle.
– Trailers less than 2,500kg ATM must
be fitted with at least one safety chain
of at least 9.5mm in diameter. Trailers
over 2,500kg and up to 3,500kgs must
be fitted with two safety chains. Safety
chains are compulsory and must
comply with Australian Standards.
– Tyres must have a significant load-
rating and speed-rating for towing, and
must have the correct tyre pressure to
suit the load being carried. Correct tyre
pressure will ensure safe operation,
maximum tyre life, the best ride,
handling and fuel economy.
– Vehicle owners must check with the
relevant road authority of their state/
territory to determine the requirements
of A-frame towing and if it is acceptable.
Pick up a copy of The National Caravan & Recreational
Vehicle Towing Guide for more handy tips and hints about
towing. Visit www.towingguide.com to order your copy on
line or visit a CCIA member dealer to obtain a copy.
Terms and conditions apply see
https://caravantowingguide.com.au/disclaimer-of-liability/