RV FEATURE
This pitfall perhaps starts with temptation , falling in love with a particular van and signing on the bottom line without adequately understanding the legal capabilities of the tow vehicle . When it comes to towing , the tow tug is inarguably the more important vehicle of the two . Its towing capacities mandate everything , from the weight of the van and therefore its size ( usually ), to the types of terrain it will confidently tackle .
But before going any further , we need to come to grips with a few key terms , many of which you ’ re familiar with , but bear with me . This is important .
ATM : This stands for Aggregate Trailer Mass . It is the maximum amount that a caravan can weigh when it is fully loaded for a holiday . It includes any water in the tanks , including grey water , the gas in the cylinders , the food in the fridge , and the dunny rolls in the bathroom . It also includes the weight supported by the jockey wheel or the vehicle towbar when hitched up .
The 200 Series is a terrific 4WD but it runs into a GVM issue when towing 3500kg .
The Y62 Patrol requires a GVM reduction depending on the amount of ball weight on the back .
GTM : Gross Trailer Mass . This is the maximum weight that can be transmitted to the ground by the caravan when it is fully loaded . Picture a van on a weighbridge , hitched up so that it ’ s only the van ’ s tyres on the scale .
GVM : Gross Vehicle Mass . This term applies to the tow vehicle ( or a motorhome ). It is the maximum amount that the vehicle can weigh when it ’ s loaded .
GCM : Gross Combined Mass . This is the maximum allowable combined weight of both the tow vehicle and the caravan .
With this in mind , let ’ s look at the weights and ratings of three different vehicles : a 3500kg ATM tandem-axle caravan , the 2022 D- MAX LS-U + ute , and a 2021 Land Cruiser 200 Series GXL , in an effort to demonstrate why it ’ s so important to properly understand tow vehicle ratings and therefore avoid the aforementioned trap .
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