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Subject Topic: Noise when towing with a stabliser bar
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PersonNotaclue11
23/8/2017 at 11:33pm
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We are new to towing a caravan. Haven't went far. First 2 times no problem just nervous. But coming home the 3rd time. As soon as we started to pull the caravan the most horrendous creaking noise came from around the towbar/back of the car/front of the caravan. It happens when we go forward not just when we are turning. It's doesn't happen if we don't use the stabliser bar. So I assume it's the that. Why has it just started to make this noise. And how do we sort it as I don't feel safe towing without the stabliser bar. Thanks in advance.


Personmoppetsdad
24/8/2017 at 6:06am
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I take it you are using a blade type of stabiliser in which case it is normal for them to creak,it shows you it's working.

They will creak at the slightest movement as when turning or when the car and van rock slightly as you go over uneven roads as they sort of hinge up and down.

Remember though are they are not meant to replace a badly loaded van so make sure you load correctly and also remember they are only an aid not a cure.

Happy times!

-------------
David

    

I've stood on Lego and didn't even cry!!


Personcheckley1973
24/8/2017 at 9:18am
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Can also be an indication your tow ball or stabiliser pads are dirty.

Check your towbar, is into clean? Rust free and did you remove the paint before using it?

If so then check your pads are clean. Best to use brake cleaner and a paper towel. You can clean your towbar with this too.


PersonDaveS1
24/8/2017 at 9:34am
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As you can see from the 2 very different answers you need to tell what type of stabiliser you are using before you get any difinite help.
Incidentally, using a stabiliser will not help with the safety aspect so you shouldn't worry whether you use one or not. Correct loading, nose weight, tyre pressure and driving method are far more important.
DaveS1


PersonNotaclue11
24/8/2017 at 10:07am
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Thanks for your replies. It's a bull dog blade stabliser. I would expect a little creaking but its loud enough to turn peoples heads. It sound horrendous. We hardly have anything in the caravan as we are new to this. Please can you tell me what the nose weight should be. We pack it like my mum and dad used to. It was there van for 10 years. They had no problem. It's only just started. Does the stabliser come apart to clean it ?


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Personbirdman101
24/8/2017 at 1:25pm
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The plate on your towbar should show the nose weight permitted for your car. You should not exceed this. It will usually be between 70 kg and 100 kg depending on the motor.


PersonNotaclue11
24/8/2017 at 1:39pm
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Thankyou


PersonGrampian91
24/8/2017 at 7:07pm
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As your using a stabiliser bar i assume you do not have a stabiliser hitch so..

Have you greased the towball/caravan hitch?

The friction plates in the bar get dusty as they wear and that causes creaks and groans also. Its not normal for them to make a noise when clean. Its noise itself is not a problem though. Its not doing any damage.

Have you set the tension correctly?


PersonNotaclue11
24/8/2017 at 8:11pm
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We've cleaned the stabliser. We are going to try it again tomorrow. Fingers crossed.


Person664DaveS
24/8/2017 at 8:14pm
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We used Bulldog type for many years.They are good and do make a bit of noise.If excessive you may just need to replace the friction discs easy job.

-------------
DS-There's more to life than football!!!


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PersonSkoda Bob
25/8/2017 at 10:48am
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just ditch it and get a hitch


PersonGeoff48
26/8/2017 at 2:02pm
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If you continue with the bulldog stabiliser there are a couple types. Instructions for fitting and adjustment are here if you need them
100
200 300 See downloads.


PersonNotaclue11
26/8/2017 at 3:34pm
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Cleaning it worked a treat. Thanks everyone x


PersonGrampian91
26/8/2017 at 9:54pm
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Have you greased the hitch and towball?


PersonNotaclue11
27/8/2017 at 12:13am
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No Grampian91. No sound of when just towing. Only when stabliser blade attached. Cleaned the stabliser pads. And now no sound :)


PersonSusan Forster
via mobile 30/5/2024 at 10:42pm
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How did you clean it? I can't find any instructions on how to clean or replace pads in a bulldog stabiliser bar



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