PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER
So you have established your tow vehicle ’ s towing capacity and maximum TBM . The next step is to find a caravan with an ATM that does not exceed that towing capacity , and which will have a loaded ball weight that will not exceed the vehicle ’ s TBM .
Here ’ s an example :
The first-generation Isuzu MU-X has a towing capacity of 3000kg and a maximum TBM of 300kg . Legally , this vehicle is limited to towing no more than 3000kg , with no more than 300kg on the towball .
Let ’ s say you find a caravan with a Tare weight of 2400kg , an ATM of 3000kg , and an unladen ball weight of 160kg . In this scenario , the difference between Tare and ATM is 600kg – this comprises the van ’ s payload capacity .
A portable ball weight scale is worth its weight in gold .
Once the van is loaded for a trip , what is the ball weight ? It should have increased in proportion to how much – and where in the van – you have packed . In this case , this weight must not exceed the vehicle ’ s TBM of 300kg .
Unless your vehicle has been fitted with Clearviews or similar , always fit extension mirrors .
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