Before setting off on any journey towing a caravan, here are some checks you should carry out every time to make sure you're towing safely and legally.
1. Check car tyre pressures - adjust for towing
2. Check wheel nuts for tightness using torque wrench
3. Turn off LPG cylinder(s) and ensure they are securely strapped upright
4. Empty water tanks, carry any water you need for the journey in a small
container
5. Check nose weight of caravan - see our guide for correct caravan loading
6. Secure any loose items in caravan, close windows, roof lights, fridge catch,
and all catches
7. Set 12v control panel to ‘car’ or ‘off’ switch fridge to 12v
8. Once you have finished in the caravan, ensure the handbrake is fully on.
Motor Mover Fitted?
8 a) Ensure handbrake on van or attached to tow hitch, retract drive rollers from engagement with tyres
8 b) Switch Off master isolator switch
8 c) Stow Remote Control safely inside caravan
9. Raise the corner steadies and stow winding handle and step. Lock door
10. Hitch up – check hitch mechanism is fully engaged.
Alko Stabiliser Hitch Fitted? 10 a) Check safety indicator button is visible 10 b) Check wear indicator for satisfactory pad wear
11. Wind jockey wheel up, unclamp and raise to highest position. Re-clamp
securely. Fit stabiliser bar (if used)
12. Attach breakaway cable, preferably to pigtail or secure part of the towing
bracket – DO NOT LOOP OVER TOWBALL
13. Connect 12v cables making sure there is enough slack to turn corners.
Alko ATC Fitted?
13 a) After connecting 12v cable to car, check warning indicator for correct function of unit
14. Check all road lights are working
15. Fully release handbrake
16. Check all mirrors are adjusted properly
17. Walk around the entire unit for a final check – all items secured away? (Towball
cover, step, winding handle, step, chocks, etc.)
18. Caravan level or slightly nose down? Car sits level?
19. You are now ready to go. After about 15-20 minutes stop and make sure all
cupboards, windows, doors and roof light are still secure.
20. Are the wheels cool _ if not then you may have a binding brake get it
checked.
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
