Operating instructions
15
23. Fully release the caravan handbrake.
24. Carry out a second check that the hitch is secure
and the secondary braking cable is connected.
25. Adjust the car’s driving mirrors from the driving
seat to ensure good rearward visibility.
7. TOWING
Speed Limits
Where a lower limit is not in force, caravans may
be towed at up to a maximum of 50 mph on single
carriageways or 60 mph on dual carriageways and
motorways.
Pulling Away
Allow more engine speed to produce the power to
move the additional weight of the caravan.
Let the clutch out smoothly
Avoid wear and tear on the clutch and transmission
by taking extra care.
Change gears smoothly
Try not to jerk the clutch
Caravan Handling
Allow for the caravan being slightly wider than the
car.
Allow additional distance from the kerb with caravan
wheels so that they are not “bumped”.
When passing other vehicles allow more than
normal clearance for driving solo.
Overtaking and stopping distances are increased
when you are towing.
Always indicate in plenty of time before carrying
out any manoeuvre.
Allow longer to accelerate up speed prior to
overtaking.
Allow for the vehicle being twice its normal length.
Do not suddenly swing out.
Carry out all manoeuvres as smoothly as possible.
Use nearside wing mirror to check caravan has
cleared when overtaking.
Reversing
Prociency at reversing can only be achieved with
practice and should be rst attempted in a large
open area. Consider taking a suitable training
course.
Motorway Driving
Caravans may not be towed in the outside lane
of three or four lane motorway (Reg 12(2) of the
motorway Trafc [England and Wales] Regulations
1982.)
Reduce speed in high winds, cross winds, downhill
or in poor visibility.
High sided vehicles such as lorries or coaches can
cause air buffeting, so extra care must be taken
when passing or being passed. Give as much space
as is possible between your caravan and the high
sided vehicle.
Mirrors
The Law requires that the driver of the towing
vehicle to have an adequate view to the rear.
If there is no rear view through the caravan windows
it may be necessary to have additional exterior