Technical data

The Towing Code
13
Fig. A Reversing
MIRRORS
The driver of the towing vehicle must have an
adequate view of the rear.
If there is no rear view through the caravan it
is essential that additional exterior towing
mirrors are fitted. This is mandatory is some
European countries and drivers can face
instant fines if extension mirrors are not fitted.
Caution: Any rear view mirror must not
project more than 200 mm outside:
a) the width of the caravan when being
towed.
b) the width of the towing vehicle when
driven solo.
Note: Any rear view mirror fitted shall be ‘e’
marked and cover the field of view as
stipulated by type approval requirements
(Regulation 33 of the Road Vehicles
[Construction and Use] Regulation 1986).
PULLING OFF
Let the clutch in smoothly.
Allow more engine speed to produce the
power to move the additional weight of the
caravan.
Reduce wear and tear on clutch and
transmission by taking extra care.
Change gears smoothly.
Try not to jerk the clutch.
REVERSING
Proficiency at reversing can only be achieved
with practice and should be first attempted
in a large open area (Fig. A).
SPEED LIMITS
Normal road towing: 50mph
Motorways (including dual carriageways):
60mph
CARAVAN HANDLING
Allow for caravan being wider than car.
Do not bump kerb with caravan wheels.
When passing other vehicles allow more than
the normal clearance for driving solo.
Allow longer to get up speed to pass.
Allow for the outfit being twice its normal
length.
Do not suddenly swing out.
Carry out all manoeuvres as smoothly as
possible.
Use nearside wing mirror to check caravan
has cleared when overtaking.
IMPORTANT POINTS ESPECIALLY
FOR MOTORWAY DRIVING
1. Caravans may not be towed in the out-
side lane of a three or four lane motor-
way. (Reg. 12(2) of the Motorway Traffic
[England and Wales] Regulations 1982).