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We thought we need a drop plate for our Meriva - Trailer tent.

I phoned a trailer/towing/towbar company today to make enquiries. They told me that it is illegal to have one on a non-commercial vehicle and so will not fit it for us.

Any light anybody could shed on this matter would be appreciated.

It's been illegal for some time.  Larger 4 x 4s sometimes have Type Approval, but I believe I'm right in saying that there are no normal saloon cars that can use a drop plate.  It shouldn't be necessary in any case.  Trailers and towbars are designed to be the same height.

Jim

Thanks for the replies.

We will double double-check on the height of the trailer tent to the car & just live with any difference.

Hi G7ACU

We think we might need a drop plate as the nose of the TT seems to be sitting a little too high. I will post a pic on my profile from when we collected the TT & would like to hear your thoughts.

thanks

Smartrascal

Could it be worn suspension on the trailer, or too much weight in it?  Wrong tyres maybe?  Try to measure the height from the ground of a similar model.

Jim

hi Greendemon315

The trailer is brand new: the pic on the profile is the day we collected it, so it shouldn't be any of the suggestions.

Having looked at my profile picture, do you think it is too high or am I just being a bit paranoid? The trailer tows fine.

Thanks for your help.

Petra

It is certainly illegal, whatever your supplier may have done.  Even though he supplied it, it would be illegal to use it.

Smartrascal

I did think it was a bit high, obviously not ideal, but probably not so high that it becomes a worry.

Maybe when your car is full of passengers, the car suspension will move down a bit and make it level.  Worth sitting a few people in the car and seeing what it looks like.

As has been said, it is possible to mount the trailer hitch under teh drawbar, depending on design, but it really shouldn't be necessary.  I would ask the trailer suppliers what they think is the reason.

If I can help any further, just ask.

Jim

Thanks for all your help & suggestions.

I guess we maybe need more gear to weight down the car!!!  Seriously though, we will take it to the towing company & get their advice as well.