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Touring
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PRE HOLIDAY CHECKLIST
CAR
- Fuel tank(s) full.
- Oil level in engine and transmission.
- Water or coolant level.
- Condition of all hoses.
- Fan belt tension and condition.
- Brake Fluid level.
- Tyre pressures, including spare.
- Operation of lights.
- Mirrors secured and adjusted.
- Air shockers inflated (if fitted).
- Insect screen in front of radiator.
CARAVAN INTERIOR
- Cupboards and drawers closed & table secured.
- Refrigerator door locked - check that containers with liquids are sealed.
- Hatches and windows closed.
- No loose items in cupboards or on shelves.
- Fire extinguisher fitted.
CARAVAN EXTERIOR
- Gas bottle fitted and secured.
- Water tank filled.
- Brakes checked and adjusted.
- Wheel bearings adjusted.
- Wheel nuts tight AND condition of tyres.
Note: It is advisable to have the caravan serviced
by a specialist prior to the journey
BEFORE MOVING OFF
- Jockey wheel removed or secured.
- Lights operating correctly.
- Gas turned off.
- Tyres inflated correctly.
- Doors closed and locked.
- Jacks raised or safety stands removed.
- Wheel chocks removed.
- Hand brake released.
- Electrical connection between car and van secured.
- 240V electrical lead disconnected.
- Steps raised.
- Towing aid correctly fitted.
- Safety chains secured.
SPARES WHICH MAY BE USEFUL
- Fan belt.
- Radiator hoses.
- Engine oil.
- Coolant.
- Spare wheel and tyre to suit caravan.
- Tube to suit car and caravan tyre.
- Insulating tape.
- Electrical wire.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
- Assortment of tools to suit sizes on car & caravan.
- Tyre levers (2).
- Wheel brace to suit wheel nuts on car and caravan.
- Jack to suit car and caravan
- Tyre gauge.
- Wheel chocks.
- Blocks for placing under corner stabilisers when ground is soft or under a wheel when site not level.
Make sure that you have the necessary tools required to fit the spares that you may have taken for the trip.
For your own sake, and that of your passengers, it is essential that all gas lines, connections, appliances and electrical fittings be checked regularly.
The task will take only a few minutes and you will develop more confidence in your unit if you know it is safe.
In addition to regular checks it is essential that an approved fire extinguisher is always on board. Extinguishes come in a multitude of sizes, price ranges and different types of operation. Make sure the one you select is big enough to handle a fire, should one ever develop. Once having bought an extinguisher mount it in a readily accessible position. Ideally you should be able to reach the unit from outside the van.
It is no use having a "toy" extinguisher inside the van if a fire develops. Remember that your huge investment, your life and those of your passengers are at stake. When buying an extinguisher, make sure it is a reliable one.
The simpler the operation the better as there is less chance of something going wrong. And make sure it is one which meets the levels of safety required by a responsible body, such as the Australian Standards Assc. or the Insurance Council of Australia. All fire extinguishers sold in Australia must conform to the relevant standard as laid down by the Standards Assc.
If your extinguisher is of a type which, over a period of time, loses its effectiveness, replace it when necessary. Fire fighting experts generally recommend that a fire extinguisher is checked at least every couple of years to ensure correct operation.
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COOLING SYSTEMS
Problems with cooling systems are probably amongst the most frustrating a caravanner can encounter.
Overheating should be avoided at all cost as it can lead to costly repairs. On vehicles fitted with an automatic transmission, overheating can increase the likelihood of the added complication of damaging the transmission. The main function of an automatic transmission fluid is to transmit power, just like axles or drive shafts. While doing this the oil generates heat.
Under normal operating conditions the temperature is kept at safe levels by circulating the oil through the radiator. However when additional loads are placed on the transmission, as in the case when towing, the additional heat build up cannot always be taken care of by the standard radiator
To prevent any damage occurring from the extra heat an auxiliary transmission oil cooler must be fitted if the vehicle is used for towing. Not only does it keep the oil temperature down, it will also reduce the engine coolant temperature.
Unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer, the transmission oil should bypass the normal radiator and only pass through the auxiliary oil cooler to achieve maximum cooling eHiciency. It is highly undesirable to use normal tap water in cooling systems. Sooner or later it will result in untimely and expensive breakdowns
Modern cooling systems use a variety of coolants. Each type must be used as recommended to ensure many years of trouble free engine operation. Always follow manufacturers instructions in regard to topping up the system. Never add water to a system which contains some other substance unless as a last resort.
Something else that can contribute to overheating, and often not realised by motorists is the use of an air-conditioner. Whenever this is switched on the cooling system is subjected to additional heat. If the engine temperatures appear to be increasing more that "normal", when the airconditioner is used, always switch the unit off until such time as the temperature is down to a safe level.
Motorists faced with overheating problems should seek the advice of a radiator specialist. Generally these people are familiar with problems associated with particular vehicles and may recommend a large radiator, new thermostat, or just a clean out.
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SUITABILITY OF TOWING VEHICLE
Would be Caravanners are often confused when it comes to choosing a suitable towing vehicle. As a general rule there is no such thing as a bad towing vehicle. It all depends on the combination of towing vehicle and trailer. A medium sized car with a small caravan is just as suitable as a large 4WD with a long caravan in tow. Most passenger vehicles are not specifically designed with towing in mind. A perusal of car owners handbooks will find comments like "Your vehicle is suited for occasional towing of trailers and caravans" or "Your vehicle is primarily designed as a passenger vehicle so handling, durability or economy may be effected by towing a caravan or trailer".
This does not mean that a particular car cannot be used to tow a caravan or trailer. It does indicate however that certain modifications may be needed to make sure that the vehicle can be safely and reliably used for towing. The most suitable towing vehicle is one which is heavier than the caravan or trailer it tows and which has enough power to handle the towing load. Both manual and automatic transmissions can be successfully used .
As automatic transmissions can use up engine power, smaller engines often perform better when coupled to a manual gearbox. One advantage of an automatic transmission is that the driver can keep two hands on the steering wheel. Manoeuvring, particularly reversing, is also much easier when the vehicle only has two pedals instead of three.
The majority of components in smaller vehicles are less robust than in larger ones. This usually makes small cars less suitable for towing heavy loads. Larger four wheel drives (4WDs) are popular for towing for two main reasons. Firstly there is their rugged construction which together with their solid engines and transmissions form a sound basis for a capable towing vehicle. Secondly their higher unladen weight, or mass, means that a larger caravan can be towed than would normally be the case with lighter vehicles.
In many instances a four wheel drive is not really needed unless you intend to venture away from the beaten tracks.
There are two wheel drive vehicles which are just as capable of towing a caravan around Australia as a four wheel drive. It is the compatibility of the towing vehicle and caravan, or camper trailer, that is important. Remember that just because your towing vehicle is suitable for travelling on unsealed roads your caravan may not be. Most caravans, unless suitably modified, are not designed to travel along rough outback tracks.
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DRIVING TECHNIQUES
Newcomers to caravanning are sometimes concerned with the prospect of manoeuvring a car and caravan combination. The problems that are sometimes encountered may be due to:
- an incompatible car and caravan combination,
- incorrect loading,
- lack of proper towing equipment,
- towing equipment not adjusted correctly.
- not familiar with the correct techniques
Once these points have been sorted out towing a caravan or camper trailer need not be any more difficult than driving a car by itself.
There are several instances where a different technique may be beneficial. These are:
MOVING OFF
With a trailer in tow the acceleration rate of a vehicle is drastically reduced. If the tow vehicle has a manual transmission it is usually necessary to stay a little longer in each gear before changing up. With vehicles that have an automatic transmission it is a good idea to use the selector lever manually to control the gear changes particularly when going up hill.
CRUISING
Because of the extra length and weight, fast speeds are not recommended. In some states the speed limits are lower when a caravan is in tow. Never drive too close behind other vehicles as it will take longer to stop than when the car is by itself. Leave at least a 60 metre space unless actually overtaking. This allows other traffic to pass your vehicle safely.
When approaching a hill and provided it is safe to do so, increase the vehicle speed slightly so as to make it easier to get up the hill. Always select a lower gear if the vehicle speed drops off noticeably. Once engine speed is lost it is difficult to pick up again. As a result the engine will struggle to pull the outfit up the hill.
OVERTAKING
Overtaking other vehicles, especially long trucks or other caravans, must be done with extreme caution. Not only is the acceleration considerably reduced but due to the extra length a greater distance has to be covered before it is possible to move back into the left hand lane. Remember to check the mirrors before pulling
BEING OVERTAKEN
By constantly monitoring the rear vision mirrors a faster travelling vehicle can be readily spotted. If road and traffic conditions permit, slow down and move as far to the left as possible.
The greater the difference in speed of the two vehicles and the further they are apart while passing, the safer the situation becomes. When the other vehicle starts to pass apply some power to the towing vehicle. There is less chance of sway occurring if the caravan is being pulled rather than it pushing on to the car. In other words do not brake or allow the outfit to be on the over-run. When due to road conditions traffic builds up behind you periodically move off the road to allow other motorists to pass safely.
GOING DOWNHILL
Always slow down and change to a lower gear before actually reaching the downhill section of the road. This is particularly important if the hill is a steep one. By adopting this procedure the need for heavy braking while going downhill is reduced. Excessive speeds or sudden braking while on a downhill stretch could create an unstable condition and result in uncontrollable caravan sway.
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BRAKING SYSTEMS
To ensure that an outfit can be safely and quickly stopped, all caravans and camper trailers should have brakes fitted.
In some instances brakes may not be required if the loaded mass of the trailer does not exceed 750kg. For many years caravan manufacturers have been fitting electrically operated brakes to their products. Electric brakes are generally considered to be the most suitable type for caravans and camper trailers. These systems are similar in construction to normal drum brakes but use a magnet and lever, instead of hydraulic pressure, to push the shoes against the drum. With electric brakes it is necessary to install a unit known as a controller in the towing vehicle. While this is a simple procedure, the work should only be undertaken by an experienced person. Connecting the controller into the wrong section of the car's electrical circuit can cause expensive damage to other electrical components. Particularly vulnerable are vehicle management computers.
The amount of braking done by the trailer's wheels should be adjusted so that the driver does not have to press any harder on the brake pedal than when stopping without anything in tow.
Under normal conditions the caravan or trailer brakes operate automatically when the towing vehicle's brakes are applied. However the controller also has a facility which allows the caravan brakes to be applied separately. This can be a distinct advantage when the caravan is pushing against the towing vehicle while going downhill or in a situation where a caravan may tend to sway. As on any vehicle, regular checks and adjustment of the caravan or trailer brakes are a must. This is applies whether the unit is used constantly or only a couple of times per year.
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TOWBARS & HITCHES
A towbar is to a car and caravan what glue is to two pieces of timber. Use the wrong glue and the timber will come apart. Fit the wrong towbar to a car and the caravan may not stay in place. The capabilities of a towbar are often over estimated. Generally the only part that is visible is the tongue or lug. Sometimes this appears to be quite strong. However the actual mountings or strength of that part of the bar that is under the vehicle may leave much to be desired.
In relation to towbars there should be no comparison. Sure the cost may be a little more than you had budgeted for but compared to the investment you have in the towing vehicle and caravan, it is cheap insurance. Always purchase a recognised product from a tow bar specialist. A quality tow bar can be readily identified by a plate, which displays the manufacturer's name, the vehicle for which it is designed and the bar's maximum towing load.
If you purchase a new vehicle with a towbar already fitted do not assume that it matches the towing capabilities of the vehicle. Many towbars are only designed to tow small trailers and not heavily loaded caravans. Before selecting a towbar, firstly determine the loaded weight of the caravan or camper trailer This can only be done by placing the unit on a weighbridge. Then purchase a towbar that can adequately cope with that load that you intend to pull.
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TYRE CARE
In regard to safety, tyres play a more important part on a car and caravan than any other single component. A vehicle can only accelerate, brake or steer if the correct contact exists between the tyre and the road.
If the tyres are not inflated correctly, or are the wrong type, the stability and ride of the car and caravan combination can be severely effected. Considering that at 80 km/h the average tyre rotates 40,000 times per hour it can be appreciated that proper tyre care is very important to ensure a safe and trouble free journey. Tyres can deteriorate just as much when a vehicle stands for long periods than when it is being used. When a caravan is not being used it is a good idea to take the load off the tyres and cover them to prevent deterioration by the sun. What is usually not realised is that a tyre has to be inflated to its maximum pressure before the load rating stated on the tyre can be achieved, The maximum pressure for normal passenger car tyres are 250 kPa (36 PSI) and 280 kPa (40 PSI) for a 6 ply rating. Should the inflation pressure of the tyre be less than that stated above, the load carrying capacity will also be reduced. For light truck tyres the pressures and load carrying capacities are correspondingly higher.
As a rule always inflate caravan tyres to the maximum permissible pressure unless they are 8ply light truck tyres. The rear tyres on the towing vehicles, because they are subjected to much greater loads when towing, should also be inflated to near their maximum. Front tyres will need an extra 25 kPa (4 PSI) above normal. Always be careful to check tyre pressures when the tyres are cold. Early in the morning is best. During a trip heat build up will increase pressures, giving an incorrect reading. Never let air out of a tyre when it has been on the move or standing in the sun.
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STORAGE
When your caravan or camper is not being used, a few precautions will ensure that your investment will not deteriorate or lose value while awaiting the next holiday.
Firstly, it is important to take the weight off the springs and tyres if the van is going to be left standing in the one place for more than a few weeks. Using the normal corner jacks is not recommended. Placing blocks under the axles will remove the load from the tyres but not the springs. Ideally, in addition to blocks under the axles, stands should be placed under the chassis. By raising the chassis weight is taken off the tyres as well as the springs.
Two stands should support the chassis, a short distance behind the wheels and two more near where the A frame is attached to the chassis. By using the jockey wheel to move the van up or down this can be achieved quite easily. It is not necessary to have the tyres clear off the ground. Lifting the caravan up 50mm 75mm will take sufficient load off the tyres. The corner jacks can still be used to compliment the stands but they should not be relied upon to take the caravan weight by themselves. Obviously some protection against the elements, like a garage or carport is much preferred. If this is not available adopting the following procedures will help to protect your unit:
- Wash the roof and check the sealer along joints and edges for cracks. If cracks exist remove old sealer and using a good quality compound, reseal. It is usually necessary to unscrew the mouldings. Someone specialising in caravan repairs and maintenance can either advise on the most suitable product .
- Clean the outside of the van and apply a good quality automotive polish. Although cleaning and polishing a caravan is a time consuming task, the effort is well worthwhile. In addition to making it look great the polish will protect the paint and prevent it fading.
- Cover the gas cylinder to prevent moisture affecting the regulator and valve or causing corrosion to the cylinder. Alternatively remove the cylinder and store under cover. If the cylinder is removed tape up the end of the hose or pipe.
- Cover the coupling and brake master cylinder if the van is an older model which has override brakes fitted. A large plastic bag is suitable, but make sure that it is not completely sealed as condensation may occur.
- Paint the A frame and any other exposed parts of the chassis. Although traditionally a silver paint is often used any good quality exterior enamel can be applied. Always prepare the surface as directed by the paint manufacturer.
- Ideally the wheels and tyres should be removed and stored in a cool, dark area. If this is inconvenient at least cover the tyres to prevent contact with the sun's rays. Also reduce tyre pressures to about 2/3 the normal pressure. Periodic cleaning of the tyres with soapy water (not strong detergents) is also beneficial.
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TOWING YOUR OWN CAMPER
Have you ever thought of owning your own caravan or camping unit! An impossible dream, you say. Not really! Anyone can own a camping unit. Caravans, camper trailers or camper vans are a worthwhile purchase, and if well cared for make a sound investment. Having one in your backyard means you are able to take off on a holiday whenever you wish.
For example, many people head for nearby sites or parks after work on Fridays and return home Sunday evening. They make their vans or camper selfcontained so that there is no need to load and unload crockery, eating utensils k bedding.
Caravans range from basic models to super luxury units. Even the basic designs have everything you need refrigerator, stove, beds etc. Luxury caravans can have ALL the comforts of home, such as lounge rooms, separate kitchens, bars, stereo, TV, airconditioning, separate main bedroom, shower and toilet.
So why not surprise the family with a caravan or camping unit? Retailers who are members of the Caravan and Camping Industries Association of S.A. are able to advise on everything you need to know in regard to selecting, buying or using a caravan or camper. They will ensure you don't buy a unit too big for the vehicle you drive. And don't forget, caravans and other units are a sound financial investment. No one need feel apprehensive about towing or driving any type of camping unit. All that is needed is a little common sense and perhaps learning a few new skills.
A few years ago driving and towing caravans was left to the men. Now it is common place to find women sharing the driving or even taking friends or families on holidays by themselves.
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