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Chapter 10
10-4
TOW AND LOAD
Tow ball load
The tow ball load is the weight on the tow ball when the packed trailer / caravan is
hitched. It must be within the following specifications:
•
loaded trailer weighing up to 625 kg – at least 4% of the loaded trailer weight but
not more than 10%
•
loaded trailer weighing over 625 kg – at least 25 kg but not more than 10% of the
loaded trailer weight.
The tow ball load can be adjusted by correctly packing the trailer / caravan load. If the
tow ball load is too light or too heavy, the steering and handling of the vehicle can be
greatly impaired. However, aim for the maximum rather than minimum tow ball load.
When measuring the tow ball load, make sure that the drawbar of the loaded trailer
/ caravan is at the same height as it will be when it is mounted on the vehicle. This
Safe towing tips
Your vehicle will handle differently when towing. It's a good idea to make a couple of
short distance trips with the trailer / caravan before you set off on the big one.
Have your vehicle correctly maintained and serviced.
Have your trailer / caravan maintained and serviced, with particular attention given to
condition of brakes, tyres, suspension, wheel bearings, towing coupling and lighting.
You should have an extended-arm mirror on both sides of your vehicle.
Headlights may need re-aiming after the loaded caravan has been hitched, particularly
if a load equalizing hitch is not used.
Use a lower gear, rather than your brakes when descending steep hills.
If your trailer / caravan moves off the road behind you, allow the left wheels of your
vehicle to move off as well. When it is safe to do so, carefully steer back on to the road.
A sudden attempt to steer back could make you swerve dangerously.
TOWING cont.
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