Coupling your caravan and car

Coupling up your car to your caravan can be very easy when you’ve learnt how. Caravansforsale is providing you with 7 simple steps.

Step 1 - Before beginning make sure that both the caravan and tow car are in control. You will need the car handbrake on and the caravans hitch break applied.

Step 2 - Read the manufacturer’s directions before doing this for the first time. If you are unsure of anything ask your dealer for a demonstration. New and improved equipment is being released all the time so even if you are an experienced caravanner, you can still ask for a demonstration.

Step 3 - Don’t manoeuvre the caravan yourself, having someone to help you is always best. You will need to use the jockey wheel to adjust the height of the caravan hitch. You will need to make sure the hitch is higher than the tow ball before attempting to reverse the car.

Step 4 - Each coupling head will have its own method of attachment. Many caravans will have a coloured visual indicator, this needs to be checked to confirm the attachment was successful. Other types of hitches have an integral stabiliser which requires extra vigilance and some may have a second handle to be operated which sometimes click when placed correctly.

Step 5 - Double check that the coupling has been completed correctly and that everything is showing how it should be.

Step 6 - Once you know everything is in place you must retract the jockey wheel Fully wind up the wheel forks into the slots of the outer tube. Loosen the clamp on the A-frame and lift the entire assembly, ensuring the wheel is as high as possible, then retighten the clamp.

Step 7 - Next, you want to attach the breakaway cable. All newer towbars will have a breakaway attachment point near the tow ball. The breakaway cable is designed to apply a trailer’s brakes if it becomes separated from its towing vehicle.

Step 8 - You will then need to connect the electrics. Older outfits may still use the 12N and 12S 7-pin double socket arrangement, but newer (post-2008) outfits will typically use the 13-pin twist socket. Ask the dealer to show you how to do this.

Step 9 - Test the breaks, indicators, fog lights and normal headlights before setting off on your journey.

For more information please visit: https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/advice-and-training/advice-for-beginners/coupling-your-car-and-caravan/