Caravan towing

[Paul john]

1 hour ago, Flatcoat said:

Towing weights are set by ability to tow a given weight at a prescribed speed up gradients of 12 and 8%. Which is why some manufacturers give 2 tow weight limits, all subject to chassis strength coping with said weight. It is impossible for a manufacturer to factor in unknown variables of wind, temperature and driver skill. Towing stability is determined by many factors including correct tyre pressures, load distribution, nose weight, worn suspension and so on. 

Plus an alco stabiliser and weight distribution helps with stability. With “modern” cars there is so little difference between a 12% and 8% rating they list the lowest. 

[Flatcoat]

Load = weight! Alko hitches and ACT traction control systems only help reduce instability after a problem develops, they don’t stop it happening. VW group still refer to two tow weight limits albeit in practice I suspect most people work with the lower. I had a Volvo previously which also gave two weights and it was confusing until I realised why. Fortunately even at the lower weight I was ok with my new caravan but would not have been with the older caravan. 

[Paul john]

4 hours ago, Flatcoat said:

Load = weight! Alko hitches and ACT traction control systems only help reduce instability after a problem develops, they don’t stop it happening. VW group still refer to two tow weight limits albeit in practice I suspect most people work with the lower. I had a Volvo previously which also gave two weights and it was confusing until I realised why. Fortunately even at the lower weight I was ok with my new caravan but would not have been with the older caravan. 

As i said “stability” and by modern cars i was referring to Toyota, since this is a Toyota forum. 

[Marcusthehat]

Flatcoat, just to nitpick, but why would manufacturers be unable to "cope" with temperature as a variable affecting towing. 

P.S.

I discounted the other variables such as worn suspension and incorrect tyre pressures, since you know I kinda figure nobody (sensible) should or would take on to tow with such a vehicle.

Cheers