Introduction
Setting up and towing a travel trailer is an exciting experience, especially for new owners. To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, it’s crucial to follow specific guidelines and best practices. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed do’s and don’ts for setting up and towing your travel trailer, covering everything from hitching and levelling to maintenance and safety checks.
When Towing the Camper
Always Carry Essential Documents:
- Why It’s Important: Having hard copies of the Ministry of Surface Transport circulars, GST invoice for the camper, and camper insurance documents ensures you’re prepared for any roadside checks or emergencies.
- Pro Tip: Keep these documents in a waterproof folder in an easily accessible location.
General Tips:
- Hitch Connection: Ensure the hitch is properly connected on both the camper and tow vehicle sides. This secures the trailer and prevents any trouble.
- Safety Chains and Emergency Brake: Connect these essential components to enhance safety. The chains act as a backup for the hitch, and the emergency brake would completely stop the camper if needed.
- Weight Distribution Bars: Properly install and lock these bars to ensure that the camper and tow vehicle are in one straight line and are not sagging by the weight of each other. If not properly locked, the weight distribution bars may fall off causing instability.
- Pre-Departure Checks: Fold up jacks, close the awning and slide outs, and ensure the camper is clear of cables and loose objects. These checks prevent damage and ensure safety while towing.
- Driving Tips: If the camper is not meant for off-roading, avoid any rough terrain and drive slowly over speed breakers to protect your camper from damage. The camper jacks are for balance, and are not load-bearing. The weight of the camper should be on the tongue jack and the tyres/axle.
- Parking: Always park on a flat surface and lower the jacks when stationary. This ensures stability and safety.
- Awning Management: Close the awning in strong winds to prevent damage.
- Weight Adjustment: Adjust the hitch and weight distribution bars to prevent the tow vehicle and camper from sagging under each other’s weight.
- Speed Control: Maintain safe speeds while towing to avoid sway and instability.
- Sway Control Bar: Loosen the sway control bar when taking sharp turns to prevent hazards.
- Regular Checks: Tighten any loose nuts and bolts immediately to maintain safety.
- Insurance: Ensure your camper is covered by insurance. Contact us for insurance advise through Oriental Insurance or other insurance providers.
Electrical System:
- Connection Tips: Ensure that the camper cable is plugged onto the tow vehicle only when the engine is on to prevent battery drain.
- Heating Advice: Use the air conditioner instead of the furnace for extended heating needs for safety and to maintain efficiency.
Plumbing/Water:
- Tank Management: Clear black/grey water tanks every two days (when in use) or as indicated by the control panel to prevent overflow and maintain hygiene.
- Fresh Water: Empty the fresh water tank if not in use for more than five days to avoid contamination and bad odour.
Upkeep:
- Cleanliness: Keep the camper clean and dry to prevent mold and pests.
- Pest Control: Act immediately if you see ants or other insects. Quick action prevents infestations.
- Mosquito Mesh: Do not move the mosquito mesh panels to maintain their effectiveness.
Tyres/Axle:
- Air Pressure: Maintain the required air pressure in the tyres to ensure safe and efficient travel.
- Brake Controller: Adjust the brake controller for ‘gain’ and ‘sync’ based on road conditions to ensure optimal braking performance.
- Axle Service: Service the axle every 5000 km or six months, whichever comes first, to maintain the camper’s performance and safety.
Conclusion
By following these detailed do’s and don’ts, new #clubcamper owners can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Proper setup, maintenance, and towing practices are essential for the longevity of your camper and the safety of your travels. Enjoy your adventures with confidence, knowing you are well-prepared for any situation.
For more detailed information, always refer to your travel trailer’s manual and consult with team Club Campers when needed.