Breakaway Cables - Swift Tourer Owner's Handbook Manual

B R EAK AWAY CAB L E
cars but also all Motorhomes fitted with a
tow bar and socket. Inappropriate repair or
modification to either maybe deemed a failure
of the vehicle if it is likely to affect the road
worthiness of the vehicle.
Passengers
Passengers are forbidden to ride in a caravan.

BREAKAWAY CABLES

UK law requires that all caravans are fitted
with a safety device to provide protection in
the unlikely event of separation of the main
coupling while in motion. A device referred to
as a 'breakaway cable' fulfils this requirement
and when fitted as on your caravan is
mandatory.
Purpose
To apply the caravans brakes if it becomes
separated from its towing vehicle. Having done
this, the cable assembly is designed to part
allowing the caravan to come to a halt away
from the towing vehicle.
Identification
A thin steel cable with a red plastic coating
fitted with a means of attachment for
connection to the towing vehicle. Located
directly beneath the coupling head.
Operation
In the event of the main coupling of the
caravan separating from the towing vehicle,
the cable should be able to pull tight, without
any hindrance, engaging the caravan brakes.
The breakaway cable should not become taut
during normal driving.
Correct procedure for use
Regularly check the cable and clip for damage.
If in doubt contact your Swift Group dealer.
Make sure the cable runs as straight as
possible and goes through the cable guide
fitted underneath the caravan coupling head.
Determine whether or not the towing vehicle
towbar has a designated attachment point
(i.e. a part specifically designated for a
breakaway cable).
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Where a point is designated on the towbar:
• Pass the cable through the attachment
point and clip it back on itself (figure 1).
Fig. 1
• Do not clip directly onto the designated
point (figure 2) since the clip is not
designed for use in this way.
Fig. 2
Where there is no designated attachment point
on the towbar:
• Fixed ball: Loop the cable around the neck
of the towball in a single loop only. See
figure 3A and 3B.