I have an Abbey spectrum 535 and I was using a BMW X3 to tow, but as I was a little worried about the weight and did not want to harm the BMW I have purchased a 1995 Discovery to tow.
However when towing with the Discovery I experienced some nerve racking swaying at times that I never experienced with the BMW.
The van is a 2006 and is fitted with a Alko stabiliser.
This was not constant it happened 3 times in 300 miles but it was as if the van was pulling the car to one side and was not when being passed by an Artic although I could feel when they passed, one instance was when a number or cars overtook at high speed in quick succession.
Has the Discovery got a compatible tow bar for the alko? We were towing a Swift with a 2 litre Passat and had wobbling problems - acquired a Toyota Hilux Surf , when we went to collect it from the garage the mechanic noticed the tow bar on Passat and told us it was the incorrect one. Apparently the tow ball for an alko stands taller than normal one - as a mere female its all beyond me but thought I would mention it - someone else may be able to verify.
Hi, Just been away for first trip with Toyota Landcruiser VX and Coachman Laser 590....Simply perfect stability and power in abundance ....Fuel consumption very acceptable too ......Very impressive Towing Vehicle....
Quote: Originally posted by pinkfloyd on 12/4/2007
Toyota Landcruiser VX and Coachman Laser 590....Simply perfect stability and power in abundance ....Fuel consumption very acceptable too ......Very impressive Towing Vehicle....
Have just returned from a week away to sunny Lincolnshire. En route, the journey felt less than confidence inspiring. I was towing a twin axle Carolina with a 110" Defender. Any vehicle that overtook me (and there were plenty that did) drew a sway from the rear of our Landie.
I found that moving over to the left-hand side of the lane, where possible, and dropping the speed down to 50mph helped greatly.
Whilst on hoiliday, I treated myself to a new set of springs and dampers all round. (It seemed silly to do the back and not the front at the same time). The original springs and dampers, that had covered some 148,000 miles were replaced and what a difference it made. The return journey was an absolute delight with only one very slight 'pull' as an HGV passed very quickly and very close.
May I suggest that you have at least the rear suspension looked at?
Thanks for all your advice, I have been to the caravan dealers and the Discovery did have the wrong type of ball and they fitted an Alko ball to the car (Celia you are not just a mere female), I will also take the advice of having the suspension looked at.
Terry, I will also measure the tow ball height, any suggestions if they are different?
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Topic: Towing stability
