Operation Manual

Roof racks, caravan and trailer towing 157
Coupling socket load
The coupling socket load is the load
exerted by the caravan / trailer on the
coupling ball. It can be varied by changing
the weight distribution when loading the
caravan / trailer.
The maximum permissible coupling socket
load for the towing vehicle (80 kg) is stated
on the towing equipment identification
plate and should always be aimed for,
particularly in the ca se of heavy caravans /
trailers. The coupling socket load should
never be below 25 kg.
When measuring the coupling socket load,
make sure that the drawbar of the loaded
caravan / trailer is at the same height as it
will be when the caravan / trailer is coupled
with the towing vehicle loaded. This is
particularly important for caravans /
trailers with tandem axle.
Rear axle load during towing
When the caravan / trailer is coupled and
the towing vehic le fully loaded (including
all occupants), the permissible rear axle
load must not be exceeded.
National regulations regarding m aximum
speeds for vehicles towing a caravan /
trailer must be observed.
Picture no: 17213T.tif
Tyre inflation pressure
Increase the tyre pressure on the towing
vehicle to the value specified for full load
(see page 207). Also check the pressure of
the caravan / trailer tyres.