RV FEATURE

USE LOW RANGE

If your tow vehicle is a 4WD with low range gearing , you may be able to use low range to provide more control when reversing onto a site . This is also particularly useful if the site is on a steep slope .

You will need either a part-time 4WD system with manual locking front hubs , or a full-time 4WD system with centre diff lock control . Vehicles that have this ability include Toyota Land Cruisers and Prados , Nissan GU / GQ Patrols , and Series 1 and 2 Land Rover Discoverys .

Be warned that the use of low range on hard surfaces in other vehicles may damage the transmission so , if you ’ re unsure , check with your vehicle ’ s manufacturer or a competent mechanic .

REMEMBER TO LOOK UP

When reversing a caravan , most people will concentrate on avoiding obstacles around the lower part of the van but completely forget about the top part . Leaning trees , overhanging branches , powerlines and the roofs of neighbouring

buildings are all possible collision points with the roof of your van . Always look up .

DON ’ T FORGET THE TOW VEHICLE

This might sound silly but often people reversing onto a site are so focused on avoiding obstacles with the caravan that they forget about the tow vehicle ’ s potential to hit something , especially the front as it swings around . Bollards , other vehicles , bins and fences all have a habit of getting in the way .

We use a system where my wife is responsible for positioning the caravan and I take care of the car and we communicate using a handheld UHF radio .

BE A GOOD GUIDE

How often do you see a couple reversing their caravan onto a site and one of them is standing behind the van , flapping their arms around in frustration and the driver is shouting they can ’ t see where they are being directed .

It is important to ensure you are both clear on the directions you intend to give and , as the guide , that the driver can see you at all times . Remember , if you can ’ t see the driver ’ s face in one of the mirrors , they can ’ t see you .

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