Operating instructions
12
The caravan to towing vehicle weight ratio:
This can be determined by calculation and is equal to:
Actual laden mass of caravan
As a general guide:
• 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.
• 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 tted or the SAE rating of the gearbox uid
increasing when towing. The advice of the vehicle
manufacturer should be sought.
The law requires that caravans, their towing vehicles
and 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.)
Towing Vehicles Rear Suspension
It is important that the towing vehicle’s rear suspension
is not deected excessively by the noseweight on the
towball. 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.
The greater the towing vehicle’s tail overhang (the
distance between the rear axle and the towball) the
greater the effect the noseweight will have on the towing
vehicle’s rear suspension.
After trying out the caravan it may be found that
stiffening of the rear suspension is necessary- but note
that this may give the towing vehicle a rmer ride when
not towing.
There are a number of suspension aids available and
advice should be sought on which to use and how to t.
It is important to ensure that the caravan is towed either
level or slightly nose down. If it is not, then the car’s
towbar may be at the wrong height.
Always consult your tow vehicle manufacturer
for advice on towing and the loads that the
vehicle is capable of towing.
Recommended Towball Height
The recommended towball height for Bailey Caravans is
385 +/- 35mm (350mm to 420mm)
Secondary Braking Cable (breakaway device)
Purpose- To apply a trailer’s brakes if it becomes
separated from its towing vehicle. Having done this, the
cable assembly is designed to part, allowing the trailer
to come to a halt away from the towing vehicle.
Construction- A thin steel cable, coated in red plastic
and tted with a means of attachment for connection to
the towing vehicle.
Operation- In the event of the main coupling of the trailer
separating from the towing vehicle, the cable should be
able to pull tight, without any hindrance, engaging the
trailer’s brakes.
The Breakaway cable should never become
taut during normal use.
Correct Procedure For Use
• Regularly check the cable and clip for damage. If
in doubt, contact your trailer or towbar supplier or
your service agent.
• Make sure the cable runs as straight as possible and
goes through a cable guide underneath the trailer
coupling.
• Determine whether or not the towbar has a
designated attachment point (i.e. a part specically
designated by its manufacturer for a breakaway
cable.)
Kerb Weight of Towing vehicle
100%