Most caravans, boats and trailers don’t see much action during the year. In fact, it’s often only around holiday time that they are rolled off their patch of grass and hooked up to go. After standing for most of the year, however, chances are their wheels are no longer in good shape. Goodyear recently issued a list of pre-trip tips that will help you avoid roadside frustration and enjoy a hassle-free and safe journey.
Wheels and Tyres:
- Make sure your tyre pressures are correct. This will save on fuel and ensure a safe, comfortable ride.
- Tyres should be suited to the maximum weight of the caravan as well as the maximum permitted travelling speed.
- When buying new tyres, look for C-rated (Commercial) or XL-rated (Extra Load) tyres, to add some reserve to its load capacity.
- Make sure to inflate the tyres according to recommendation of the caravan manufacturer.
- All wheel elements should be tightened and, while you’re at it, make sure you have the relevant jack and wheel spanner for your trailer or caravan.
Car and Caravan:
- By law, all trailers require the correct chevron tape to be wrapped all the way around the body for better visibility.
- Make sure your lights are all working properly and that your licenses are up to date.
- Only choose a car and caravan that are compatible, use the best towing equipment and practice some of the skills that are needed to cope with any situation that might arise. “A well-prepared driver, car and caravan are a precondition for a safe and enjoyable trip,” says Lize Hayward, Group Public Relations Manager at Goodyear.
- Pack the caravan correctly. Place heavy items as low as possible in the caravan, preferably over the axle, and make sure they are secured to prevent any movement when turning corners or braking sharply. If possible, always put heavier items in the car and larger, lighter items in the caravan.
Before Setting Off:
- Make sure everything is connected and working properly.
- Pay close attention to the lights, brakes, tyres, hitches and any safety ropes.
- Pack a tool kit. Spare bulbs, a warning triangle, a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit are legal requirements in many first world countries.
- A spare tyre or quick repair kit is also essential.
- Extended side mirrors are a must, to see what is happening behind you.
Travelling and Towing:
- Take it easy!
- Be aware of the surrounding traffic conditions, limiting your cruising speed to 80 km/h or 100 km/h, depending on what your caravan is legally limited to.
- Keeping a safe distance and allow enough time to react and stop if necessary.
- Only overtake other vehicles, particularly trucks, when you are certain there is ample space and time to do so.
- Be aware of the low pressure effect created by trucks when overtaking. Your vehicle may be sucked towards the truck when overtaking and pulled in the opposite direction when finishing the maneuver.
- If you see a long queue of cars behind you, especially on twisting mountain roads, use a layby, to allow them to pass.
- If your caravan begins to sway, remain calm. Do not brake, but remove your foot from the accelerator to reduce speed. When the swaying has stopped, gradually increase the speed again.
With a little due care and attention you’ll ensure a safe and hassle-free caravanning trip with your family. As a final tip, you can have your vehicle checked by Hi-Q, who offer a free safety check on vehicles and caravans. The check includes: tyres for tread depth and pressure; front and rear shock absorbers; brake pads, discs and fluid; as well as the battery, exhaust and wiper blades.
Source: Goodyear Tyre & Rubber Holdings (Pty) Ltd
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