After dithering about when and where to go to get a break a recent VERY DIFFICULT time we had finally decided to try for the Keswick CCC site next week. However, the weather has just, typically, taken a turn for the worse.
Although having plenty of towing experience that has mainly been as a summer 'vanner. I was wondering what sort of windspeeds people thought would be dodgy for touring and what would be uncomfortable when pitched up.
I am talking here of towing up the M6 from St Helens, Merseyside to Keswick and then being pitched on the Keswick CCC site which is rather open as it is at the northern end of Derwentwater.
Our outfit is a Bailey Senator Arizona towed by a Kia Sorento Titan. I'd be grateful for any advice as we REALLY NEED this break away.
Don't worry about the wind. Just make sure your corner steadies are wound down tightly on site and make the best of it.
Wind speeds themselves don't make that much difference to stability when towing though they may have a positive or negative effect on the fuel economy depending on direction, though on a two way trip this will be negated if the wind speeds are the same.
Gusty wind can make towing difficult but keeping the speed down, particularly on bridges will help considerably as will anticipating the gusts, eg when you reach the end of a row of trees, you will be less sheltered from side winds, so prepare to be pushed across the road.
We towed up the M6 in some horrendous wind a couple of years ago and were fine. Keswick is a long way from Manchester...very nice site, but apparently liable to flooding.
If it looks iffy going up the M6 come off at Kendal, rather than Penrith, and wander up through Windermere/Grassmere up to Keswick. Far less exposed to driving winds than going over Shap Fell. Down side is it s a bit twisty.
Basically, in a high wind, slow down. Better late than never at all.
Phil
------------- If you're not on a fell your wasting your feet and for 2014 it's.......Feb Castleton Mar North Yors Moors; Apr Sutton on Sea; May Thirsk; Jun Clapham/Riverside (Lakes); July Wharfedale; August Crakehall; Sept Knaresborough; Oct Wirral Park/Clitheroe
Quote: Originally posted by cwdc56768 on 10/3/2013
If it looks iffy going up the M6 come off at Kendal, rather than Penrith, and wander up through Windermere/Grassmere up to Keswick. Far less exposed to driving winds than going over Shap Fell. Down side is it s a bit twisty.
Basically, in a high wind, slow down. Better late than never at all.
Phil
Thanks Phil
That is as REALLY good idea which I had not thought of!! Although I know both routes very well I guess I'm a bit too tired for logical thinking at the moment!!! The M6 from Junctions 36 (Kendal) to 40 (Penrith) over Shap were indeed a particular concern.
Thanks to too everyone else who've posted. I was in need of a little reassurance perhaps and you've been kind enough to give me that.
Like Scarletsfan says you do have a very stable outfit, we travelled over the Therwall viaduct last October in very heavy winds and I must admit I was abit worried coming up towards the bridge, I kept my speed down(and both hands clutching the steering wheel!) and was in the end it was fine and I needn't have been concerned, I wouldn't let it put you off travelling, just keep your wits about you.
Got caught out with some very strong winds driving to Dunkirk last September to catch the ferry. Stopped at a service area for something to eat and a break, with the van legs down the van was rocking and the HGV next to me. The next 50 miles to the port was driving at 40mph, van getting some buffeting from the side, just keep the speed down you will be OK. Good thing, the ferry was on time and left on time, but could not dock in Dover due to the winds, so over an hour in the channel waiting before been allowed to dock.
Cardiff on the Severn Estuary, 65mph winds, just use plenty of guy lines and strong pegs.
Quote: Originally posted by scarletsfan on 10/3/2013
You are towing a twin axle caravan with a Sorento. I doubt you'll find many more stable outfits on the road.
It'll be a breeze. Just sit back in the chair and unwind as the miles pass by.
Thanks again everyone for the further posts although actually our Senator Arizona is only single axle.
Thanks again for your VERY HELPFUL and reassuring advice. I thought that I would let you know that Cary and I arrived safely at Keswick CCC site c2.00pm yesterday. We had a very pleasant and uneventful journey via the M6 and A66. There were no problems with wind despite taking the M6 over Shap. It was a lovely, clear sunny day and the fells were beautiful with a capping of snow on many of them. The winds were light and no problem at all for towing and the motorway was surprisingly quiet.
By mid-afternoon we were all set up on a pitch with wonderful views towards Derwentwater and the surrounding fells, some of which are "iced" with snow. Today has been another beautiful sunny day. The peace and beauty of our surroundings has already begun to work its relaxing "magic" and is proving "just what the Dr ordered", literally. We are enjoying the freedom that retirement has newly brought us and are staying here for at least 18 days.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Windspeeds when towing and pitched up
