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I read on another post that this shouldn't be done as it will be reversing with the caravan's overrun brake on - is that so? If it is, how the heck do I get it backed round enough to take over by hand?  

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Yes that is right and the caravan handbrake doesn't operate as efficiently when the draw bar is pushed in but firstly you need to know how it functions to understand the mechanics behind it. Behind the hitch is a draw bar (shaft) that slides back and forth which operates the caravan brakes simultaneously. When the towcar pulls the caravan it pulls the draw bar out in order to release the brakes. When the towcar brakes, the caravan then pushes against the towbar which in turn compresses the draw bar and operates the caravan brakes. So this is the evidence that when the draw bar is compressed it operates the caravan brakes which you don't want. All you have to do is pull the hitch forward by hand but it will take a bit of force to to do or you could use the towcar to do this before you unhitch. The way to do it is slightly apply the caravan handbrake first and just drive the car forward enough to pull the draw bar out fully then apply the caravan handbrake fully. When you unhitch, the caravan will then remain stationary. You then move the caravan by hand by releasing the caravan handbrake with the draw bar pulled out. If you are on an incline then you are best to use some chocks for assistance whilst maneuvring.

I've never had any problems arise from reversing uphill.  As Zafiral says, when you've gone as far as you're going, apply the caravan handbrake, chock the wheels, and let the car roll forward enough to uncompress the hitch.

Jim

Quote: Originally posted by treble on 10/7/2011

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Well we're getting on ok with the caravan . Just one issue though... where we have to store it at home requires that I reverse partly round a corner, slightly uphill. We then finish swivelling by hand and push her in.    

I read on another post that this shouldn't be done as it will be reversing with the caravan's overrun brake on - is that so? If it is, how the heck do I get it backed round enough to take over by hand?   

The last time I did it, I didn't get her round far enough and the hitch was compressed (is that the right description) and so of course when hubby freed it the hitch made an attempt to make friends with the car bumper - fortunately it didn't quite succeed. Methinks some wood offcuts to make chocks from might go on the shopping list!

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