Towing Wake-up Call

[Dulac]

The caravan was serviced last week and I removed the heavier items prior (e.g. awning, EHU leads, chairs, etc). The dealer weighed the 'van and told me it was approx 40kg over the manufacturer's stated MTPLM, which was a surprise given what I had already taken out. Note that a typical leisure battery and motor moving device weigh around 60kg and these - together with LPG bottles - are added after the unit leaves the factory. After a bit of online research it seems that this is a common problem and many owners are towing perhaps 100kg over the limit, trusting the caravan manufacturer's published figures - confirmed by the external data plate fixed to the 'van - relative to their towcar capacity. Luckily Antara owners are less vulnerable in terms of a towcar mismatch because of its above average towing capacity but the 'van chassis is still overloaded. If you look in the gas bottle locker you will probably find another plate or label and there is a chance that this will differ from the external one, to your advantage. It appears that a deceit might be practiced by certain caravan manufacturers on customers who might otherwise not buy a particular caravan because it doesn't suit their existing car. (Shome mishtake shurely?)

If you tow a large, twin-axle caravan (with a motor moving device installed) it might be worthwhile taking the loaded outfit to a weighbridge for a check, but be prepared for a surprise. Some Antaras are able to tow more than others, so check Vauxhall's data against your particular model. Time to shift more gear between the car's front and rear seats when towing, but if you also carry passengers .............

[victor]

Hmmmm food for thought Dulac for those affected although personally not a towing man. As you say good job the Antara is well capable of dealing with the weight, ALWAYS GOOD TO HAVE A BIT IN RESERVE (sorry hit the CAPS LOCK key there). So does this mean you feel the stirring already, whiff of Calor gas, wander lust biting and all that, out seeking pastures new. I've spent some good holidays in static caravans specially when the kids were young but don't think I could go for owning one, lot of hassle keeping them especially through the winter months innit although there's some farmers make a few quid out of storing them. I guess if it's in the blood it's in the blood.

[Dulac]

Forget the whiff of calor gas - it's the barbecue and gin! You are quite right that caravanning ain't cheap - it is less expensive to take a few holidays abroad each year.