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Hi There, I was wondering if anyone out there could give me there eaperiences with boarding the ferry with there outfit.I have never been across to France with mine but would really like to but Im abit worried about the clearence I have. I have a VW Passat 1.9TDI and Im towing an Avondale Godiva 556-6 and I dont think I have enough floor clearence to board a ferry, I sometims bottom out just going over speed ramps I have checked my nose weight and I am well in tollerance but im very low to the ground so can anyone help me please !!! thanks   

Don't let it bother you to much. Just go slow over the ramp and you'll be ok. Also the ramp onto the ferry is not like a speed hump. Once the car goes onto the ramp the caravan follows at the same level whereas a speed hump is narrow and high so comes between the car and 'van at a higher point and tends to catch the jockey wheel. You could also consider taking the jockey wheel off at the port to give you extra clearance.

harryb 

I am sure you have, but I would seriously question your set up if you continualy bottom out.

The ferry is not really a problem, as it's quite a smooth transition. However if you were really concerned, when you get to the ferry terminal, shift your weight out the boot and in to the back of the van. Get out the otherside and re-do all your weights.

Thanks for the replys I will remove the jocky wheel when I get down there, I must admit I never thought of that that is a good one, and like you said the speed bumps are solid not fluid so that will help, and I will look at my loading Thank you booth for your info we are all learning something new everyday   

sbond219

Another tip which you might find helpful. If you have towing mirrors fitted, and they are easily removed/refitted, it's a good idea to whip them off and put them in the car once you've parked on the car deck. Lots of people will be wandering past your car at loading/unloading, and it's easy for your mirrors to be accidentally knocked out of alignment. This means you arrive in France with useless mirrors, at the very time you need them most. Re-fit them when you get back to your car and lurk protectively outside!

Graham

Quote: Originally posted by sbond219 on 22/1/2007

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Thank you booth for your info

sbond219

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Your welcome. From an exile of Hetton-le-Hole

harryb