I have a Seat Altea XL 1.9 TDI which has a max towing limit of 1400kg. (Cars MAM is 2050kg, and it comes in about 1850kg with passengers, luggage and roofbox)
My question: If I buy a van that has an MTPLM of say 1425kg, but ensure that it doesn't reach it (weighbridge nearby) is this going to cause me problems?
Do people generally find that their laden vans reach the MTPLM or are significantly under when loaded with essentials such as gas bottles, water containers etc.
I think that 85% of your kerbweight is 1262 Kg, so you should reallybe aiming for that. The MAM of the car is irrelevant. The van you suggest is, in my opinion, far too heavy.
I do believe most caravans are heavier than the owners realise, and certainly don't often fall short of the MTPLM. You need to look for something significantly smaller.
Down a bit.If you go too high and are towing at 100% of the cars kerbweight you may not find the problems that that may create until you are on the road e.g. having to stop half way up a hill due to road works and then trying to move uphill from a standing start.
Look for about 85% of the cars kerbweight
Phil
------------- If you're not on a fell your wasting your feet and for 2014 it's.......Feb Castleton Mar North Yors Moors; Apr Sutton on Sea; May Thirsk; Jun Clapham/Riverside (Lakes); July Wharfedale; August Crakehall; Sept Knaresborough; Oct Wirral Park/Clitheroe
As general rule, the lighter the trailer the better so the '85% rule' is a good guide.
However, subject to your van being properly balanced: the 'noseweight' not exceeding the manufacturers specification. (this is termed as 'max drawbar loading'); 'the gross train weight' not being exceeeded, and the rear 'axle loading' not being exceeded; if the manufacturers say you can tow 1400kg, why not?
Quote: Originally posted by johnjory on 24/8/2010
if the manufacturers say you can tow 1400kg, why not?
...Because the manufacturers quote max tow weight on the cars actual abilty to tow. This is based on engine power & abilty to start on a gradient. There is no advice given on towing safety, this is left to the vehicle owner. With the large side area of a caravan it is generally recognized it is best to tow a caravan that is at least slightly lighter than the car.
I was looking for the right words to give a good reason as to "1400Kg why not" and you found them Sproz!
Phil
------------- If you're not on a fell your wasting your feet and for 2014 it's.......Feb Castleton Mar North Yors Moors; Apr Sutton on Sea; May Thirsk; Jun Clapham/Riverside (Lakes); July Wharfedale; August Crakehall; Sept Knaresborough; Oct Wirral Park/Clitheroe