Prior to any trip that involves a towbar, precautions must be taken. The last thing you want is for an avoidable accident to occur because of a problem with your towbar. With a thorough inspection prior to your trip, you will save time and money while avoiding an accident and the attention of the police.

Towing a caravan

That big holiday you have been planning might fall off the rails without a proper inspection. Prior to travelling, be sure to check your caravan for any faults.

Make sure that:

• The number plates, towing lights and caravan labels are clearly visible
• The load is not heavier that the GMT of your trailer or vehicle
• Your trailer brakes and lights are working
• The amount you pack into your car’s boot is limited
• You have correctly set your mirrors so that you have clear vision while driving
• Your tyres are pumped and the tread depth is more than 1.6mm
• Nothing is attached to the back of the caravan
• The weight of the caravan is distributed evenly throughout the chassis

Caravans are becoming increasingly popular with holidaymakers, especially older, retirees. The luxury of having a home away from home has its perks, but caution is needed. Anyone found in breach of road laws while towing a caravan faces heavy fines and a loss of demerit points. If you are planning a trip, have a mechanic inspect your caravan. At the same time, have you tow bar checked by an expert.

Towing a Trailer

If you’re constantly towing a trailer, you probably understand the importance of safety measures. Trailers are not immune to the damage caused by general wear and tear on the road, but with proper maintenance, your trailer will be carrying those heavy loads for years to come.

Before you cart that next big load, ensure your trailer meets the following:

• Tyres are inflated to the required Psi
• The coupling socket and ball match in size
• The trailer is registered if the GMT is more than 750kgs or it’s bigger than 3 meters
• Towing brake lights work and they’re not obstructing the number plate
• Ensure you have a safety connection device in your car. This is in addition to your normal coupling
• Have the appropriate safety connection. This can be one of:
  • Chains
  • Shackles
  • Cables or,
  • A combination of all 3

Safety matters when it comes to trailers. For added safety, particularly when towing heavy loads, a weight distribution hitch is ideal. This system ensures that the weight of your load is evenly balanced throughout your vehicle’s axis. Doing this will take the pressure of your car, enhancing performance and suspension.

Whether it’s a big delivery or a family holiday, don’t let your towing experience turn into a disaster. Make sure you do a thorough inspection before you travel and if you are concerned about your towbar, get in touch with Advanced Towbars. Our experienced fitters will install your towbar and have you driving safely to your destination. Book you car in today by calling 1300 238 869.

People who can perfectly reverse a trailer might seem like a genius or a magician, but they are nothing of the sort.

In fact, with a little time and practice, anyone can master the art of reversing a trailer. If you want to hone your reversing skills, read on for our tips. Just remember, this is only a guide – it also takes practice and an understanding of your surroundings to pull off the perfect reverse.

Start with an Assistant

There’s no shame is asking your passenger to get out of the car and stand on your blind side. In fact, it’s often critical to success. Communication is the key here, so make sure you use clear directions and hand signals and discuss them before you start.

Get it Right from the Beginning

It is much easier to reverse a trailer when the driver’s side of the vehicle is facing the right. When you’re in this position, the arc of the trailer as it reverses should be visible on your side. As you begin to reverse, you should be able to see the length of the trailer in your mirror.

Don’t forget to wind down your windows and adjust your side mirrors to show both sides of the trailer before you start. You want to ensure both mirrors are free from obstruction.

Do the Opposite

When reversing a trailer, you need to think of the opposite action. If you want the trailer to go left, turn the steering wheel right and vice versa. Just be careful not to turn too much as the trailer can jack knife. This is where communication with your partner is important.

Use the Mirror

The rear-view and left side mirror are not needed at this point. The right-hand mirror should be sufficient or you can simply look over your shoulder. If you have trouble seeing the trailer, ask your partner to instruct you.

Reversing a Tailer in 3 Simple Steps

1. Go Back

Shift into reverse and start to turn the steering wheel left. As you steer left, the wheels of the vehicle will go left, while the rear of the trailer will go right. This will ensure the vehicle and trailer start to go around in an arc.

2. Follow the Curve

You want to follow the arc to the point where the relationship between vehicle and trailer is constant. Imagine reversing around in a circle.

3. Straighten Yourself Up

Now comes the time to ease up. Straighten up the wheels of both the vehicle and trailer. Make any minor adjustments that are needed to ensure the car and trailer and lined up in a straight line.

Job Well Done

Congratulations on mastering the art of reversing a trailer. Now that it’s been completed, the rest of the day will seem like child’s play. The important thing to remember is that you need to steer opposite to where you want the trailer to go.

Of course, the best way to learn how to reverse a trailer is to practice. At Advanced Towbars, we are experts in all things trailers, towing, towbars and accessories. We understand the frustrations that may come with towing and we have the products and services to make it all easier. Come to us for a brand new towbar, a great range of accessories and for towbar fittings. For a free onsite fitting of any of our custom towbars or accessories, contact us online or call 1300 238 869.

There is no better feeling than packing a suitcase and heading off on a holiday. Australians have a love affair with holiday travel and caravans are the accommodation of choice. However, there are laws that you need to adhere to when towing a caravan. In Victoria, these laws are stringent and must be abided by.

Victorian Towing Laws

Regardless of whether you are an experienced caravanner or you’re new to the scene, all drivers must follow the rules. If not, you face hefty fines, a loss of demerit points and an increased chance of a traffic accident.

To ensure you’re always in the right, here are the rules you must follow:

Roadworthy

Just like any vehicle, caravans must be roadworthy and registered. To register a light trailer or caravan, you must be at least 17 years old. For heavy trailers and caravans, you must be 18 or older. Prior to your holiday, have a mechanic inspect your caravan. To ensure it is compliant with Victorian road laws, the caravan must meet the following criteria:

• Brakes and external lights are working
• Safety chains and couplings are in good condition
• All tyres are the same and have a tread depth of 1.6 mm or more
• Wheel, tyres, bearings and suspension are in good condition on both caravan and trailer

If the trailer is less than 200kgs (tare mass) and smaller than 3 meters, it is exempt from some of these rules. Just ensure the suspension and tyres are in good working condition.

Number Plate Visibility

When towing a caravan, it must never hide the number plate. Even when the caravan has been detached, the towbar must not obstruct the number plate.

Fully Licensed

You can register a caravan on your learners, but under no circumstance can a learner drive with a caravan attached. Red p-platers are only allowed to drive with a caravan under certain circumstances. When driving with a caravan, the same general road laws apply.

No Travellers Are Permitted in the Caravan

When travelling with a caravan, no one is permitted to be inside it. Not only are you putting your life and the lives of others at risk, but you are increasing the weight of the trailer and caravan. This will make it more difficult to drive and handle your car.

Weight Limits

Before setting off, you must know the weight of your caravan. The manufacturer will provide this information when you purchase it. Make sure the weight of your caravan never exceeds:

• The weight rating of the tow bar
• Towing limits that are recommended by your car’s manufacturer

If you are travelling interstate, it is best to check with the local authorities about the towing capacity. Each state has their own laws on caravans, so just be vigilant when travelling.

Driving with a caravan requires a strong and reliable towbar. At Advanced Towbars, our products are compliant with Australian safety standards. If you are interested in our range, feel free to contact us on 1300 238 869. Our experts will assist with all of your enquiries and we’re experts at fitting your towbar, too!

Whether you tow all the time or it’s a weekend activity, there are plenty of ways to enhance your ride. There is a wide range of towbar accessories on the market that can improve your towing skills and make your road trip easier overall.

If you want to enjoy a smoother travel while towing, invest in any of these accessories.

Sway Controls

Without a doubt, this is one of the best towbar investments you will ever make, especially if you tow frequently. You can’t control the weather, but with sway controls, you can ensure you get the job done properly in any weather.

A sway control is designed to restrict trailer sway by encumbering the movement between the tow hitch and trailer. This means the job can go on if the wind picks up or the weather is threatening.

Reverse Cameras and Sensors

Your rear and side vision can sometimes be obstructed as a result of the load you are towing. To get eyes where you need them, invest in reversing cameras or sensors.

Most new cars come fitted with cameras, but for those with older models, it is well worth the investment. At Advanced Towbars, we have two options to choose from.

• Front or rear sensor installation
• Front or rear camera installation with a monitor inside the cabin

Regardless of what you choose, the safety standards of our products meet Australian regulations. For maximum vision, it is recommended that you combine both sensors and cameras in one installation.

Winch

Driving a 4-wheel drive gives you that extra grunt a standard vehicle can’t provide. To ensure you’re not stranded in an emergency, we supply and fit a wide selection of winches that are tailored to your vehicle’s needs. The weight capacity of a winch is determined by the load you are bearing and your towing capacity. Speak to us about choosing the right winch for your vehicle.

Weight Distribution Hitch

Put simply, a weight distribution hitch is a system that evenly distributes the weight of your load while towing. A weight distribution hitch provides a significant increase in handling and vehicle control, restoring the control that would otherwise be lost with a heavy load. This is because the weight is evenly distributed throughout the vehicle’s chassis to all 4 wheels. Our team of installers will help you choose the right system for your vehicle.

Electric Brake Controllers

Australian road laws state that any trailer with a gross trailer mass (GTM) exceeding 750kgs must have brakes. Without these brakes, you could be facing hefty fines. By fitting your vehicle with electric brake control, you are enhancing the braking capabilities of both trailer and vehicle.

Advanced Towbars is Melbourne’s leading towbar fitting team. We professionally install your towbars and provide a range of accessories to match. For more information about our towing products or services, contact us today. Our experienced team will assist you with any question relating to your towing needs.

Are you always using your towbar to carry heavy loads? If so, you may want to invest in a weight distribution hitch. It may be the best investment you have ever made for your vehicle.

Read on to learn more about weight distribution hitches and what they can do for you.

What is a Weight Distribution Hitch?

Attaching a heavy load to your vehicle can really take its toll. It can cause unevenness and cause your car to sag, particularly at the rear. This will wear out your suspension and your tyres, increasing your risk on the road.

A weight distribution hitch is a system that helps to relieve the stress and ensure a level ride while driving. By evenly distributing the weight, you can enjoy a much smoother drive without added stress on your vehicle.

You may need a weight distribution if:

1. Your headlights are facing upwards
2. You experience trailer sway
3. You have difficulty steering
4. The weight of the trailer is more than 50% of your vehicle’s weight

The Benefits

Constantly carrying heavy loads with your towbar takes a toll on your vehicle. With a weight distribution system, your car will be more evenly balanced while driving. The benefits of this system include:

Improved Handling

With a weight distribution system, your vehicle is much more stable. With evenly distributed weight and less pressure on your car, your steering and handling can greatly improve. Steering usually bears the brunt of the damage when carrying heavy loads, but a weight distribution hitch can effectively reverse this!

Lessens the Impact While Driving

Driving can be a heavy impact activity, especially if you’re towing large loads. Weight distribution systems take the pressure off your vehicle while driving. They reduce the sag at the rear of your vehicle, preventing it from overloading and avoiding wear and tear to your suspension.

Reduce Trailer Sway

A swaying trailer is difficult to control and a danger to you and those around you on the road. Trailer sway occurs when the load is either:

1. Not secure or
2. Caught in high winds

Weight distribution systems ease the load on the axis of your vehicle, meaning there is less reliance your car. This helps to control the external factors that cause trailer sway, making you safer on the road.

Talk to Advanced Towbars

Talk to our team today for more information about enhancing your towbars. At Advanced Towbars, our name says it all – we are one of Melbourne’s premier towbar installers and we offer excellent products and services to match. For all your towbar needs, get in touch with Advanced Towbars today.

If you’re towing a heavy load, you will have to set up your trailer with the utmost care. Manufacturers provide guidelines for you to follow but the onus is on you to understand the data and take the necessary safety precautions.

If you can’t figure out the difference between the GVM and the ATM, ask a professional to help you out. If you prefer setting up the trailer yourself, take a look our safety guidelines.

Speed Limits

If you’re towing heavy loads, you need to stick to your speed limits to prevent accidents. If the combined weight of the trailer and tow vehicle exceeds 4,500 kilos, you can’t travel at speeds higher than 100 km/h. This applies to drivers in both NSW and Western Australia. There is no set speed limit for towing vehicles in other states. Drivers must exercise caution and travel at speeds that suit the prevailing road conditions.

Centre of Gravity

You have to position the centre of gravity of the trailer so it’s dynamically stable on the road. Why is this important? If the trailer sways because of wind or bumps in the road, it will return to its original position behind the tow vehicle. Instead of increasing the tow ball mass to improve trailer stability, you could shift the centre of gravity ahead of the axles. If you shift the centre of gravity to the front of the trailer, you will exert downward pressure and cause braking efficiency to drop.

If there’s a high load on the rear of the tow vehicle, you won’t be able to steer the trailer around corners. This is why it’s important to shift the centre of gravity to the area just ahead of the axels.

Tow Ball Mass and Rear Axle

Every vehicle has certain front and rear axle load limits. If you exceed the load limit, you will render the tow vehicle unstable. The tow ball mass exerts pressure and increases the rear axle load. Vehicles with short overhang have less rear axle load. The rear overhang of the vehicle should not be more than 60 percent of the wheelbase. Bear this in mind when you’re towing heavy loads.

If the rear projection exceeds 1.2 meters, you will have to use a bright coloured warning flag.

Weight Distribution

Along with the total weight of the trailer, you’ll have to also focus on weight distribution. Make an effort to place the weight over the axles of the trailer so it’s easier to manoeuvre the vehicle. If the weight remains concentrated at the front and back end of the trailer, the trailer may sway. Uneven distribution of weight will reduce traction at the rear end of the car. It’s best to centralise the weight for a safe and easy tow.

Tow Hitch Installation in Melbourne

If you need help with towbar installations in Melbourne, get in touch with the team of experts at Advanced Towbars. We can help you install car towbars and accessories at affordable prices.

Our experienced towbar installers carry out the job with utmost care and precision. We stand by our premium products and high-quality services.

If you can’t find the right towbar assembly for your vehicle, we can customise orders for you! Since we work with a network of reliable towbar suppliers, we can offer you high-quality products at competitive rates.

Give us a call on 1300 238 869 if you want to install truck tow bars, nudge bars or any other accessories. We’ll help you choose the right product for your needs.