Just about to take the big step from camping to small caravan (which we haven't bought yet). New car has single electrics tow bar on, so that's one step closer. Obviously rear registration plate for the caravan, and towing mirrors... but anything else? Looking on line and there are all sorts of widgits and connectors and things, and not at all sure if we need all of them or not? Can anyone just give me the basic list? We are trying to find a nice little Freedom caravan as our first.
Thank you x
You have everything for the car, once you find a van, fit car mirrors, connect up the electrics to make sure they work, fit number plate, strong double side tape, make sure the van legs are up and the tyres are ok on it, hitch up and let van hand break off, then take it easy for the first time.
Thanks Skoda Bob. Its like you are standing at the side of me with the van What about things like chock blocks - should we get some of those? I suppose there is the chance they may come with the van though. Our first trip will be on roads that we know and no more than an hour and a bit probably so that we get used to it before doing any long trips.
Bobmels video link is good, but you are only going to become experienced when:
(1) You drive off with the jockey wheel down
(2) Fail to check that the door is firmly shut, so it swings open when cornering.
(3) Try to drive off with the motor mover still engaged.
(4) reverse the car too quickly to the hitch and thereby having a a dent always to remind you ( or more importantly for your partner to keep pointing out).
Haha, Thank you Stuart - I imagine it will some of the above at some point. Thankfully the freedom is so light (we have heard) that we may not need a motor mover other than ourselves, so we can remove No.3 but all the others will undoubtedly happen.
Thank you for the good luck - we will need it.
Lynne
Quote: Originally posted by LLCJ on 07/3/2016
Thanks Skoda Bob. Its like you are standing at the side of me with the van What about things like chock blocks - should we get some of those? I suppose there is the chance they may come with the van though. Our first trip will be on roads that we know and no more than an hour and a bit probably so that we get used to it before doing any long trips.
Yes chock blocks all ways a good idea as is a leveling ramp. You may want to think about wide pads for the steadies as well.
regards
F
------------- No matter where you go....there you are
Hi there Make sure you have some sort of jack to change the wheel if you ever have a puncture.as car jacks will not always do the job.I use a kojack which have specially made brackets that fit onto the alko frame making the job a little easier.Also if you do have to change a wheel make sure the van is hitched to the car to stop it hopping.
Good luck GCB
Quote: Originally posted by greasychipbutty on 07/3/2016
Hi there Make sure you have some sort of jack to change the wheel if you ever have a puncture.as car jacks will not always do the job.I use a kojack which have specially made brackets that fit onto the alko frame making the job a little easier.Also if you do have to change a wheel make sure the van is hitched to the car to stop it hopping.
Good luck GCB
Freedoms do not have the normal alko chassie it's just a box steel framework without holes for that type of jack.
Quote: Originally posted by Octavia4x4 on 07/3/2016
When it gets hot inside the caravan, a good door stop is required to keep it open to get some fresh air in!
Now these door stops seem a very good idea, almost essential kit I would say.
Dave
------------- Never argue with an idiot, they will drag you down to their level and beat you on experience.
Mark Twain.
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Topic: New to towing - what else do we need?
What about things like chock blocks - should we get some of those? I suppose there is the chance they may come with the van though. Our first trip will be on roads that we know and no more than an hour and a bit probably so that we get used to it before doing any long trips.
