Home

   Log in or Register



Insurance Quotes
forums Campsite Search Comp Directory tips virtual brochure Profile
Tent and Awning Reviews Competitions Caravans and Motorhomes For Sale Shopping Diary Advent Calendar

Advertisement

Message Forums

Welcome Guest Register Login Search The Forum Posts Since Last Visit
 Reception - All Forums
   Caravans and Caravanning -  Caravan Towcars and Towing Advice
Share   Post on X / Twitter  Share on Facebook  Email  Printer Friendly Version Print
Subject Topic: Downplating / reducing MTPLM on VIN Plate
Page:  1  2 Post Reply Post New Topic
08/10/2013 at 1:01pm
 Location: LEICESTER
 Outfit: None Entered
View ROG.'s Profile View Profile   Reply to ROG. Reply   Quote ROG. Quote  
Joined: 19/1/2012

Gold Member
Gold Member

Forum Posts:   392

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Quote: Originally posted by wilf54 on 08/10/2013
Just had a look online. The b+e test is £115 during normal working hours and £141 during evenings and weekends.


Thats just the DSA test fee but including the training it is more likely to total between £500 and £700

The safety questions, reversing and uncoupling can be self taught to DSA BE test standard by looking for videos on youtube etc but the way the DSA want you to drive on the road is usually only possible by using an instructor

 

Also the vehicle and trailer used for the test must conform to specific DSA test standards



-------------
EX Advanced driving observer (IAM)
EX LGV & B+E instructor


08/10/2013 at 1:09pm
 Location: Lancashire
 Outfit:  Volvo X60 Coachman
View bessie500's Profile View Profile   Reply to bessie500 Reply   Quote bessie500 Quote  
Joined: 11/9/2006

Diamond Member
Diamond Member

Forum Posts:   2094

Site Reviews Total: 2
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 2  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 11
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Thats just the DSA test fee but including the training it is more likely to total between £500 and £700

The safety questions, reversing and uncoupling can be self taught to DSA BE test standard by looking for videos on youtube etc but the way the DSA want you to drive on the road is usually only possible by using an instructor

 

Also the vehicle and trailer used for the test must conform to specific DSA test standards

Wow those cost are just crazy, i'd go back to plan a and down rate your caravan

Bessie 



08/10/2013 at 4:52pm
 Location: Worcestershire
 Outfit: Buccaneer Cruiser
View iank01's Profile View Profile   Reply to iank01 Reply   Quote iank01 Quote  
Joined: 30/6/2004

Diamond Member
Diamond Member

Forum Posts:   4061

Site Reviews Total: 5
Site Reviews 2024: 1  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 1  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 5
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 10
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

If it is an ALKO chassis, it will probably have the maximum weight on it. The MTPLM is not a legal requirement and does not conform to statutory requirements so you cannot be prosecuted on it. The MTPLM plate is not required on a caravan or trailer.
If stopped by VOSA or the police, they will check the load index on the tyres and this should be higher than the MTPLM of the caravan, i.e. if MTPLM is 1400kg then on a single axle load rating should be at least 700kg on each tyre.
They may then look for the plate or sticker on the chassis, but will definitely check the train weight.
If over the stipulated weights, two offences have been committed, one exceeding train weight of towing vehicle and secondly invalid driving licence.
Chances of it happening are almost zero but still not worth taking the chance as it means you need to weigh the outfit before each holiday or break.


08/10/2013 at 6:05pm
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View wilf54's Profile View Profile   Reply to wilf54 Reply   Quote wilf54 Quote  
Joined: 14/6/2011

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   17

Site Reviews Total: 1
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

If we need to spend £1000 - 1400 for the two of us to do the b+e test then this will need to come off the budget for the caravan! Want to try and avoid this!

Iank0 -are you sure about the weight stamped on the chasis always being used?
We would be well within the max towing weight of the car nd well within the gross train weight of the cqcar sed on the mtplm, but not sure about the if we used the weight marked on the chasis as I have no idea what it is.


08/10/2013 at 7:50pm
 Location: LEICESTER
 Outfit: None Entered
View ROG.'s Profile View Profile   Reply to ROG. Reply   Quote ROG. Quote  
Joined: 19/1/2012

Gold Member
Gold Member

Forum Posts:   392

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Quote: Originally posted by iank01 on 08/10/2013
If it is an ALKO chassis, it will probably have the maximum weight on it. The MTPLM is not a legal requirement and does not conform to statutory requirements so you cannot be prosecuted on it. The MTPLM plate is not required on a caravan or trailer.
If stopped by VOSA or the police, they will check the load index on the tyres and this should be higher than the MTPLM of the caravan, i.e. if MTPLM is 1400kg then on a single axle load rating should be at least 700kg on each tyre.
They may then look for the plate or sticker on the chassis, but will definitely check the train weight.
If over the stipulated weights, two offences have been committed, one exceeding train weight of towing vehicle and secondly invalid driving licence.
Chances of it happening are almost zero but still not worth taking the chance as it means you need to weigh the outfit before each holiday or break.

If anyone believes that above then you are taking on hell of a big risk and will need a damn good traffic barrister in crown court !

The authorities WILL take the MTPLM or plated MAM that has been put on it by the manufacturer as the MAM for that trailer

 

If there is no plate THEN the total of the tyre load ratings will be used and that WILL be higher than any plated MAM

 

If the quote above was correct then loads would be getting done for exceeding the B licence towing laws




-------------
EX Advanced driving observer (IAM)
EX LGV & B+E instructor


Advertisement



08/10/2013 at 7:52pm
 Location: LEICESTER
 Outfit: None Entered
View ROG.'s Profile View Profile   Reply to ROG. Reply   Quote ROG. Quote  
Joined: 19/1/2012

Gold Member
Gold Member

Forum Posts:   392

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Quote: Originally posted by wilf54 on 08/10/2013
If we need to spend £1000 - 1400 for the two of us to do the b+e test then this will need to come off the budget for the caravan! Want to try and avoid this!

Iank0 -are you sure about the weight stamped on the chasis always being used?
We would be well within the max towing weight of the car nd well within the gross train weight of the cqcar sed on the mtplm, but not sure about the if we used the weight marked on the chasis as I have no idea what it is.
A design weight stamped on and a plated weight are different - its the plated weight for licencing and loading laws


-------------
EX Advanced driving observer (IAM)
EX LGV & B+E instructor


08/10/2013 at 8:19pm
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View wilf54's Profile View Profile   Reply to wilf54 Reply   Quote wilf54 Quote  
Joined: 14/6/2011

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   17

Site Reviews Total: 1
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

That makes more sense ROG - so if there is no weight plate then then they will go off the chassis design weight/tyre load ratings. Otherwise the manufacturers plate stands.

Otherwise there would be problems with trucks - I believe they are regularly downplated for tax or license rules.


I am still waiting for a reply from the manufacturer...


09/10/2013 at 8:01am
 Location: Worcestershire
 Outfit: Buccaneer Cruiser
View iank01's Profile View Profile   Reply to iank01 Reply   Quote iank01 Quote  
Joined: 30/6/2004

Diamond Member
Diamond Member

Forum Posts:   4061

Site Reviews Total: 5
Site Reviews 2024: 1  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 1  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 5
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 10
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Quote: Originally posted by ROG. on 08/10/2013
Quote: Originally posted by iank01 on 08/10/2013If it is an ALKO chassis, it will probably have the maximum weight on it. The MTPLM is not a legal requirement and does not conform to statutory requirements so you cannot be prosecuted on it. The MTPLM plate is not required on a caravan or trailer.If stopped by VOSA or the police, they will check the load index on the tyres and this should be higher than the MTPLM of the caravan, i.e. if MTPLM is 1400kg then on a single axle load rating should be at least 700kg on each tyre.
They may then look for the plate or sticker on the chassis, but will definitely check the train weight.
If over the stipulated weights, two offences have been committed, one exceeding train weight of towing vehicle and secondly invalid driving licence.
Chances of it happening are almost zero but still not worth taking the chance as it means you need to weigh the outfit before each holiday or break.

If anyone believes that above then you are taking on hell of a big risk and will need a damn good traffic barrister in crown court !

The authorities WILL take the MTPLM or plated MAM that has been put on it by the manufacturer as the MAM for that trailer

 

If there is no plate THEN the total of the tyre load ratings will be used and that WILL be higher than any plated MAM

 

If the quote above was correct then loads would be getting done for exceeding the B licence towing laws





I am correct regarding the MTPLM plate for caravans as it is not mandatory as it does not conform to mandatory legislation. This is prior to Oct 2012 as after that date all trailers have a plated fixed to the chassis. The MTPLM plate on the caravan is generally only stuck on and is not fixed. You are correct regarding if no plate, they check the tyre loads which I had mentioned.


09/10/2013 at 8:51am
 Location: LEICESTER
 Outfit: None Entered
View ROG.'s Profile View Profile   Reply to ROG. Reply   Quote ROG. Quote  
Joined: 19/1/2012

Gold Member
Gold Member

Forum Posts:   392

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Try telling a court that the plate is not relevant to driving licence regulations !

-------------
EX Advanced driving observer (IAM)
EX LGV & B+E instructor


09/10/2013 at 4:01pm
 Location: Essex
 Outfit: 1996 Bailey Senator 5000
View jayc001's Profile View Profile   Reply to jayc001 Reply   Quote jayc001 Quote  
Joined: 31/5/2012

Platinum Member
Platinum Member

Forum Posts:   501

Site Reviews Total: 3
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

I think I'd rather tell a court that the plate isn't relevant assuming I'd done my own research and brought the appropriate evidence to court to substantiate the fact.

Telling the traffic officer or vosa at the side of the road might be more tricky unless I was previously prepared and had the papers in the glove box. Even then he/she is unlikely to believe it.

The fact they take the tyre load ratings if no plate is fitted seems daft. Suppose I can get a deal on higher rated tyres and choose them? My twin axle bailey has 84 load indexed tyres. If I got a deal on 91 indexed and fitted them I could be over MAM? Or on the flip side I needed 91 indexed and couldn't afford it. I take the chance and fit 84's and also remove the plate to cover it up. Now I'm both legal and dangerous?


Advertisement



09/10/2013 at 7:05pm
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View wilf54's Profile View Profile   Reply to wilf54 Reply   Quote wilf54 Quote  
Joined: 14/6/2011

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   17

Site Reviews Total: 1
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

From what I have read over the last 24 hours if there is no plate then they will take the lowest of the: hitch rating, tyre rating & alxe rating.

For a long time (1982 was mentioned in a few places) it has been a legal requirement to have the maximum weight clearly marked on the trailer. Therefore if there isn't a max weight marked or a plate with the max weight on, they could probably prosecute on this alone. I guess they would use the other info to proove the combination was unsafe as well as ilegal.


12/10/2013 at 10:13am
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View wilf54's Profile View Profile   Reply to wilf54 Reply   Quote wilf54 Quote  
Joined: 14/6/2011

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   17

Site Reviews Total: 1
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

The manufacturer has now confined they will not reduce the plated MTPLM. Looks like a change of car will be the cheapest option...


12/10/2013 at 7:55pm
 Location:  Dumfries
 Outfit: 2022 CoachmanVIP 2022 Pilote P696GJ
View neil and lena's Profile View Profile   Reply to neil and lena Reply   Quote neil and lena Quote  
Joined: 18/2/2007

Diamond Member
Diamond Member

Forum Posts:   2370

Site Reviews Total: 51
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 1  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 4
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Quote: Originally posted by wilf54 on 12/10/2013
The manufacturer has now confined they will not reduce the plated MTPLM. Looks like a change of car will be the cheapest option...



And then what ? You'll be running with a lighter car and heavier caravan which will mean a poorly matched combination leaving yourself open to possible stability issues especially if your towing at or close to 100%.
Sorry but the the safer option is to sit the B+E and get the entitlement


13/10/2013 at 8:27am
 Location: LEICESTER
 Outfit: None Entered
View ROG.'s Profile View Profile   Reply to ROG. Reply   Quote ROG. Quote  
Joined: 19/1/2012

Gold Member
Gold Member

Forum Posts:   392

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Quote: Originally posted by neil and lena on 12/10/2013
Quote: Originally posted by wilf54 on 12/10/2013The manufacturer has now confined they will not reduce the plated MTPLM. Looks like a change of car will be the cheapest option...



And then what ? You'll be running with a lighter car and heavier caravan which will mean a poorly matched combination leaving yourself open to possible stability issues especially if your towing at or close to 100%.
Sorry but the the safer option is to sit the B+E and get the entitlement

Depends how much lighter the car is because the OP only have to loose 10 kgs from the GVW - he could fine a car with a lower GVW which has a higher kerb weight



-------------
EX Advanced driving observer (IAM)
EX LGV & B+E instructor



In order to post a reply you will need to register, or if already registered please log in here

  Prev       Next

Jump To Page:  1  2

Quick Links - All Forums - Caravan Towcars and Towing Advice - Top of Page

Printer Friendly Version Printable version      Share   Post on X / Twitter  Share on Facebook  Email


Latest News, Discounts and Competitions  see all...














10206 Visitors online !

Free UKCampsite.co.uk Window Sticker  -  Recommend to Friend  -  Add a Missing Campsite

[Message Forums]  [Caravan Sites & Camping]  [Company Listings]  [Features / Advice]  [Virtual Brochure]  [Shop!]
[Reception]  [Competitions]  [Caravans & Motorhomes For Sale]  [Event Diary]  [Contact Us]  [Tent Reviews



Please note we are not responsible for the content of external sites & any reviews represent the author's personal view only. Please report any error here. You may view our privacy and cookie policy and terms and conditions here. All copyrights & other intellectual property rights in the design and content of this web site are reserved to the UKCampsite.co.uk © 1999 - 2024


Advertisement


Advertisement


UKCampsite.co.uk
2024 Advent Calendar


Advent Calendar

24 Daily Prizes PLUS a Christmas Day Star Prize worth £999

Request a Reminder