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| Matching
your car and caravan |
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If you are new to caravanning there are some simple rules
you should apply when choosing a caravan that you can tow
with your car or visa versa.
The law states that your fully loaded caravan should not
weigh more than the kerb weight of your car. For beginners
it is generally accepted that the caravan should be less than
85% of the car.
There are other factors that may also limit the weight of
the caravan you can choose. We advise speaking to your caravan
delear to get advice. Our directory has hundreds of caravan
dealers listed who will be able to help you.
If you are a more experienced caravan tow-er then you can
choose a higher percentage. However, it should never be more
than 100%
Terms used to describe the weights are detailed here:
| Actual Laden Weight |
The total weight of the caravan together with all the
items of luggage and extras inside or attached to the
caravan. This is almost impossible to guage without the
use of a weigh bridge. |
| Gross Vehicle Weight |
The weight of the vehicle which is fully loaded up to
the maximum limits specified by a manufacturer |
| Kerbweight |
The weight of a car or vehicle that is empty. This is
defined by the vehicle manufacturer and can usually be
found towards the back of the car handbook. |
| MIRO |
Mass in Running Order - The weight of the caravan as
it leaves the factory. This used to be called Unladen
or ex-works weight. |
| MTPLM |
Maximum Technically Permissabe Laden Mass. This is the
maximum weight that the caravan can be fully loaded. Exceeding
this will mean that you are breaking the law and are at
a higher risk of having an accident. |
| Noseweight |
The weight of the caravan pushing downwards on the
towball. Towbars are tested to tollerate a certain downward
pressure. If this is exceeded they may fail and your
caravan will become detached from the car. Not fun at
60MPH! |
Also check out our towing
guide
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