Both the caravan (or camper-trailer) and the tow-vehicle must be legal/compliant and in a safe condition.

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Jonas Fitzgerald
6 years ago
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1 Caravan Inspections Pre-Holiday, or Anytime! Target Zero (Caravan Accidents) We want everyone in Australia who tows a caravan or camper-trailer to have it inspected before they take to the road, to ensure it is legal and safe Drive for Recreation not for Wreck-creation! A lovely caravan a great way to have a vacation but it must be properly checked, and kept in a good and safe condition Vitally Important! Both the caravan (or camper-trailer) and the tow-vehicle must be legal/compliant and in a safe condition. They must fully comply with all applicable ADRs (Australian Design Rules) and Australian Standards. If there have been any modifications to either the tow-vehicle, or the van/trailer, the compliance may now be invalid. If you are not mechanically knowledgeable and experienced, you should have an accredited automotive engineer or mechanic conduct the inspection and make any necessary replacements or adjustments. Only licensed gas-fitters and electricians are permitted to service gas and 230 volt ac electrical appliances and installations. Used vans and trailers - especially those made before 1989 (when the Motor Vehicle Standards Act commenced) - require special attention to ensure they are in a safe and road-worthy condition. Towing Equipment: Ask a specialist caravan equipment supplier if you should be using any towing aids: Weight-Distribution Hitch (WDH) Anti-Sway System Extended Mirrors Check with the manufacturers of the caravan and tow-vehicle to see if they permit, recommend or prohibit the use of a WDH on their particular vehicle models. In some cases, a warranty may become void if a WDH is fitted. Ratings & Masses: Refer to the Illustrations and Definitions at the end of this Check-list It is extremely important to understand all of the relevant Ratings and Masses. It is illegal to exceed any of the Ratings that are set by the manufacturers. If any are exceeded, there may well be prosecutions, civil actions, refusals of warranty and insurance claims and of course, serious accidents on the road. It is highly recommended that you obtain a certified weigh-bridge certificate, stating both the Tare Mass, and the Ball-Loading at the Tare Mass condition. Record the readings and retain the certificate. Confirm the Ratings & Actual Masses of the caravan Confirm the Ratings Gross Combination Mass (GCM) /Towing Capacity & Maximum Ballloading of the tow-vehicle/tow-bar

Measured Tare Mass: kg Ball-Loading at the Tare Mass condition: kg (While mass is the technically-correct term, many people use the term weight instead of mass.

2 Measured Tare Mass: kg Ball-Loading at the Tare Mass condition: kg (While mass is the technically-correct term, many people use the term weight instead of mass.) It is also recommended that you obtain a weigh-bridge certificate, for both the Total Mass, and the Ball- Loading, when you are fully-loaded, just to be certain that you are not over-loaded. Legal Load-Carrying Capacity (LLCC) = Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) Rating Tare Mass Note: The Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) Rating has nothing at all to do with the Ball-Loading or the LLCC. Note: The Tare Mass may well have changed since the van was made, because of added items. How much water do you really need to carry??? Remember, water is included in the Pay-Load, and not in the Tare Mass. The Ball-Loading is critical regarding proper handling and stability. Does the Trailer Plate state the Maximum Permissible Ball-Loading : YES / NO The photo shows a common method of measuring the Ball-Loading. The actual Ball-Loading will be slightly less than the reading on the scales, due to levering, as the coupling is slightly further forward. Measuring the Ball-Loading Braking System: Because of the higher mass of the combination, the braking systems of both the van and tow-vehicle, must be in sound condition, and adjusted correctly to provide the best possible straight-line braking. It is imperative that you test the braking system for proper balance - before you head off on vacation - on a safe gravel or wet road, before testing them at a higher speed on a dry sealed road. It is important to know what brake pedal effort is required to provide the required stopping performance. Caravans/trailers under 2,000 kg GTM Rating, may use over-ride brakes. Is the sliding mechanism in the coupling in good condition and lubricated to provide consistent and smooth braking: YES / NO Are the drums/discs and shoes/pads in good condition: YES / NO If cable-actuated, are the cables in good condition and adjusted correctly: YES / NO If hydraulic-actuated, is the fluid new, the hydraulic system free of leaks, and the brakes adjusted correctly: YES / NO Is an electronic in-car brake controller required all vehicles over 2,000 kg GTM Rating: YES / NO If the van s GTM Rating is over 2,000 kg, is an approved break-away system fitted: YES / NO In NSW the RMS require a visual or audible break-away battery monitor (NSW registered vans and tow vehicles) that can monitor the condition of the break-away battery and be observed from the driving position of the tow-vehicle: YES / NO

Tyres must be correctly sized and constructed to suit the loadings they will be subjected to. Tyre and wheel combinations must be in accordance with the Tyre & Rim Association manual.

3 Tyres: The tyres are probably the most important parts of the caravan - and tow-vehicle - regarding safety, ride and handling. They are the vital items that connect the vehicles with the road surface, to provide traction for cornering, acceleration and braking. Tyres must be correctly sized and constructed to suit the loadings they will be subjected to. Tyre and wheel combinations must be in accordance with the Tyre & Rim Association manual. In the photo, 225 is the tyre width (mm), 55 is the aspect/section ratio, R denotes Radial construction, 16 is the rim/wheel diameter (inches). 99 is the Load Rating (775 kg in this case) V is the Speed Rating (240 km/h in this case) Tyre specialists may well recommend using LT (Light Truck) or C (Commercial) tyres. The width of the rim/wheel, along with the off-set, should also be advised by the van manufacturer. Replacing wheels with after-market units of a different off-set may well, unknowingly, cause severe damage to the tyre side-walls, should they rub against the suspension or the body-work. Replacing wheels with after-market units of a different off-set may also cause early wheel-bearing failure or cause the axle to bend. Is a Tyre Placard fitted, listing the correct and complete information: YES / NO Manufacturer's recommended tyre size; Minimum Load Rating; Minimum Speed Rating. Is the recommended tyre pressure advised for the fully-loaded condition? YES / NO If not, consult a specialist tyre supplier for advice on tyre sizes and inflation pressures for various tyre loadings. Recommended Tyre Pressure:.. kpa [7 kpa = 1 psi] Tyres & Wheels OK? YES / NO As per the Tyre Placard? YES / NO It is important that the wheel-nuts are fully compatible with the wheel hubs and studs, and are tightened in the proper sequence, to the correct torque using a torque-wrench. A very important safety item an accurate tyre pressure gauge Wheel Nuts Torque Correct? YES / NO Nm: It is suggested that pencil (or water-proof felt pen) marks be drawn on each wheel-nut, with mating marks on the wheel, so that a quick glance will show if the nut has started to become loose. Are the tyres Approved, with the Speed Rating & Load Rating? YES / NO

information? YES / NO Manufacturer's or Importer s Name; Caravan/Trailer Model; Date of Manufacture; ATM Rating.

4 Approval Markings are Made in Australia, (U.S.) DOT, and (European) E-Mark Carefully inspect all tyres (entire treads & side-walls) for sound condition: YES / NO Is a Trailer/VIN/Compliance Plate fitted, listing the correct and complete information? YES / NO Manufacturer's or Importer s Name; Caravan/Trailer Model; Date of Manufacture; ATM Rating. Does the Trailer Plate state the trailer complies with the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989? YES / NO Caravan/Trailer & Tow-Vehicle Wiring: Is the wiring correct, as per the chart? YES / NO Are the socket and plug - and the break-away switch assembly - in good condition: YES / NO Connector 7 Pin 12 Pin Pin No: Circuit Left turn-signal lamp Reversing lamp Earth return Right turn-signal lamp Service brakes Stop lamp Position, side-marker & E-O lamp Batter charger - winch Auxiliaries / battery feed Earth return Fog lamp Spare Colour Yellow Black White Green Blue Red Brown Orange Pink White Grey Violet Lamps & Reflectors: Do all lamps work correctly? YES / NO Are all reflectors clean and in good condition? YES / NO A-Frame / Chassis / Safety Chains: Are the Safety Chains correctly stamped (every fourth Link)? e.g or YES / NO Are they securely welded to the A-Frame? YES / NO Are they of a suitable length, and for 2 chains, are they crossedover when attached to the tow-vehicle? YES / NO D-Shackles: Do the D-Shackles have a stamped Load Rating? YES / NO Never use light alloy spring-loaded tie-down hooks. Always use steel D-Shackles, that are as strong as the safety chains, and have a threaded securing bolt. Vital attachment Coupling & Safety Chains

5 50 mm Ball & Coupling: Are the ball and coupling both 50 mm diameter? YES / NO Does the coupling have the manufacturer s name, AS 4177, and the Load rating marked? YES / NO Is the anti-rattle stud correctly adjusted? YES / NO Fixed (non-rotatable) 50 mm units should not be used for moderate or severe off-road travel, due to the limited amount of articulation provided. There are height limits for the ball and coupling, depending on what ADR 61/01 or ADR 62/02 compliance has been demonstrated. The minimum and maximum heights from the ground to the centre of the ball on the tow vehicle, when fully loaded, are mm. Tow Vehicle: Height of centre of ball when the vehicle is fully-loaded:. mm Caravan: Height of centre of coupling when the vehicle is fully-loaded: mm In a side view when coupled together, the tow-vehicle and caravan should be at a level attitude. Is the coupling in good condition, and the mounting bolts firmly secured? YES / NO Is the ball nut tightened to the prescribed torque, and fitted with a lock-washer/nut? YES / NO Twin-Axis (Pin Type) Coupling: There are no prescribed height limits for these couplings, which provide far greater angles of articulation. Is the coupling in sound condition, correctly marked, and the mounting bolts firmly secured? YES / NO LPG: If there is an LPG installation, is there a valid certificate of compliance with AS 5601 (as verified by a licensed gas-fitter)? YES / NO Electricity: If there is a 230-volt ac electrical system, does it comply with AS 3000/3001 (as verified by an approved electrician)? YES / NO Is the Residual Current Device (RCD) operating correctly? YES / NO Are extension leads approved and in good condition? YES / NO Wheel Hub Assemblies: Are the hubs, bearings, stub axles, cap and seals clean and in good condition? YES / NO Are the bearings correctly grease-packed, correctly tensioned, and secured with split pins? YES / NO Suspension Components: Are all springs in sound condition and positively located? YES / NO Are all pins, bushes, hangers and shackles in good condition and lubricated as required? YES / NO

6 Other Checks: Chassis: Free of damage, cracks (structural members and welds), and rust? YES / NO Underside: Free from damage, timber rotting, and unprotected wiring and tubing/hoses? YES / NO Test all appliances and systems properly on gas, 230 volt ac, and 12 volt dc: YES / NO Fill the water tank(s) using a hose at pressure. Check all lines and connections for leaks. YES / NO Tow-Vehicle Inspection: It is highly recommended that you have a qualified mechanic inspect all of the safety-related items on the tow-vehicle, as would be done for a Road-Worthiness inspection. Are the tyres - including the spare - in good condition, and at the correct inflation pressure? YES / NO Are the brakes in good condition, and provide straight-line stopping on a hard stop? YES / NO Is the Tow-Bar fitted with the manufacturer s label (showing the two Ratings)? YES / NO Is the Tow-Bar in sound condition? YES / NO Are the mounting bolts of high-grade, in good condition and correctly tightened? YES / NO Connect the Combination: Are the vehicles level (in a side view)? YES / NO Are the safety-chains, D-shackles, jockey-wheel and coupling working properly? YES / NO Check the brake break-away system (if required) for correct operation: YES / NO Check the battery-condition warning device (if required) for correct operation: YES / NO Is the Jack approved, in good condition, and suitable to raise each tyre from the ground? YES / NO Are there prescribed jacking-points, to positively locate the Jack, on each side? YES / NO Test-drive the vehicle combination at reasonable speeds on various road surfaces, to ensure the handling and stability seem OK: YES / NO Appreciate the time and distance it takes to accelerate (to over-take another vehicle), and to decelerate. Appreciate the handling characteristics of the combination when cornering. If you are not experienced with towing, it is highly recommended that you undertake a recognised towing training course. Know exactly what to do if something goes wrong before it goes wrong! Ensure the brakes are working correctly, on both dry and wet roads: YES / NO Are extended mirrors required, and if so, are they secured and adjusted correctly? YES / NO Personal Protection: Do you have - and in good condition - the following? YES / NO Fire extinguisher, Smoke-detector, CO [carbon monoxide] -detector, First Aid kit. Do you have suitable insurance for the caravan and tow-vehicle? YES / NO

7 Ensure that everyone in the caravan reads and understands all safety notices, and knows what to do in an emergency. Again if you are not sure of any issues, seek the advice from a recognised professional. FINAL O.K. Is the Caravan Compliant & Legal??? YES / NO Is the Caravan / Tow-Vehicle Combination Compliant & Legal??? YES / NO Is the Caravan in Good Condition??? YES / NO Is the Tow-Vehicle in Good Condition??? YES / NO Further Information: ADRs: Vehicle Safety Standards, Canberra VSB-1: Disclaimer: This information is not to be deemed to be legal advice. It is supplied in good faith and is believed to be correct. However, no liability whatsoever is accepted from the use or reliance of this, or other information available on the CCA web-site. Caravan Council of Australia caravancouncil@optusnet.com.au Tel:

8 Tare Mass GTM Rating ATM Rating Ball-loading The GTM & ATM are Ratings determined by the manufacturer The Tare Mass and Ball-Loading are Actual Masses that must be measured The Tare Mass is the actual measured mass of the vehicle as it leaves the manufacturer. The vehicle is fitted with everything that was stated on the Purchase Contract. The vehicle is empty. The gas cylinder(s) and the water tanks(s) must be empty.

9 Legal Load-Carrying Capacity = ATM Rating Tare Mass The Ball-loading is the difference between the two readings ATM: Aggregate Trailer Mass (Rating) GTM: Gross Trailer Mass (Rating) The GTM Rating must not exceed the lowest of the Axle-Group Ratings. The Axle-Group comprises the: Wheels & Tyres Suspension Structure Springs Axles & Wheel-Bearings Tow-Vehicles: ************************************************ GVM: Gross Vehicle Mass (Rating) GCM: Gross Combination Mass (Rating) RAC: Rear Axle Capacity (Rating) Maximum Permitted Towing Capacity: (Rating) Maximum Permitted Coupling Down-load Capacity: (Rating) Tow-Bar: Maximum Permitted Towing & Down-load Limits: (Ratings)

Only licensed gas-fitters and electricians are permitted to service gas and 230 volt ac electrical appliances and installations.

Only licensed gas-fitters and electricians are permitted to service gas and 230 volt ac electrical appliances and installations. Caravan Maintenance A lovely caravan, a great way to have a vacation but it must be properly maintained to keep it in a good, safe and reliable condition Keep you van safe and legal Keep the re-sale value