Operation Manual

33Caravan - 09-09 - DET-0030-09EN
Before the journey
4
Caravan load The caravan load (Fig. 5,1) stipulated in the towing vehicle documents pro-
vides information as to the maximum weight which the towing vehicle is per-
mitted to tow. The caravan load refers to the actual weight of the caravan and
not to the maximum permissible gross weight of the caravan.
Example The towing vehicle may tow 1,200 kg. If the caravan has a maximum permis-
sible gross weight of 1,200 kg and in fact weighs 900 kg, it can be loaded with
another 300 kg. If however the caravan has a maximum permissible gross
weight of 1,400 kg, it may only be loaded to a maximum of 1,200 kg.
Nose weight The nose weight (Fig. 5,2) specifies how much weight the caravan drawbar
can apply to the caravan coupling of the towing vehicle. Information is to be
found in description of the caravan couplings and the vehicle documents.
Therefore, a caravan coupling with a permissible nose weight of 50 kg may not
support a loaded caravan which has a nose weight of 75 kg. Additionally, for
the permissible gross weight the nose weight must be taken into considera-
tion. If necessary the payload in the towing vehicle must be reduced by the
amount of the nose weight.
The maximum permissible gross weight for the towing vehicle and for the car-
avan is not to be exceeded.
Only when the nose weight is adapted optimal to the towing vehicle and car-
avan combination, the towing vehicle and caravan achieves its maximum sta-
bility and safety in highway traffic. The optimal nose weight is simultaneously
the maximum possible nose weight.
 Please refer to the vehicle documents and the description of the caravan
coupling for the maximum permissible nose weight.
 If different values are specified in the vehicle documents and in the descrip-
tion of the caravan coupling: Please select the lowest value. This value is
the maximum possible nose weight for the towing vehicle and caravan.
 Check the nose weight before each journey, e.g. with a nose weighing
scales. To obtain a correct value, position the nose weighing scales vertical
under the coupling jaw and place the caravan drawbar horizontal.
 The payload in the caravan must be distributed in such a way that the
measured nose weight comes as close as possible to the maximum per-
missible nose weight. The maximum permissible nose weight is not be
exceeded.
Axle load The axle load (Fig. 5,3) is also specified in the vehicle documents of the towing
vehicle and provides information concerning the permissible maximum load
for the front and rear axles. The axle load may not be exceeded by a trailer.
The above illustration shows where which forces act on the car and caravan.
4.6.5 Roof load
 Access the roof only when a roof rail has been fitted. Always use the
ladder at the rear to climb onto the roof.
 Only climb the ladder if the rear corner steadies have been extended or
if the caravan is connected to the towing vehicle or if the caravan has
been secured against tilting to the back. Otherwise the caravan can tip
over to the back. Danger of falling!
 Take care when stepping onto the ladder. There is danger of slipping
when the ladder is moist or icy.