bailey carolina

[andrew_374241803]

hi, i am looking to buy a bailey carolina approx 1750 mplt shortly and need to know what kind of motor i need to tow it. i only tow about 1200 miles a year and will be mainly used for school run. is a 4x4 needed or can i get away with a decent estate car ie: passat, mondeo.

regards,

 

[kevherb]

Hi Andrew

In order to comply with towing guidelines the caravans 1750 kgs MPLT must equal 85% of the tow cars kerb weight. Therefore I think that would rule out either of the cars you have suggested. In order to have a safe match your tow car kerb weight should be in the region of 2010kgs. Hope this helps.

 

[kevherb]

Hi Andrew

In order to comply with towing guidelines the caravans 1750 kgs MPLT must equal 85% of the tow cars kerb weight. Therefore I think that would rule out either of the cars you have suggested. In order to have a safe match your tow car kerb weight should be in the region of 2010kgs. Hope this helps.

 

[Martin24]

you are in big 4x4 territory with that weight of van but many will return 30mpg solo

 

[alunhve]

Hi Andrew

Does not necessarily have to be a 4x4. One of the larger People Carriers e.g Kia Sedona would meet the recommended 85% ratio.

Alun

 

[hollypop1]

Hello, axle configuration ie 4x4,4x2,has little to do with wether it will tow a Carolina or not. Guidlines suggest you would need a Tow car weighing about Two Tonnes.

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Andrew

With an MTPLM of 1750Kg it is a large caravan, and it is sensible to look for a vehicle that will out weigh it, but do not get too bogged down with 85%. The ratio de not have to equal it (as per Kevins posts), it is not that specific. And I do wish that people would refrain form using it as a target in isolation from all the other important factors that affect towability and control. You must also consider the way the caravan and car are loaded, The maintenance and repair of both vehicles, and the drivers abilities and driving style.

Even if you do 1200 towing miles, you are likely to be doing far more non-towing, so consider the comfort and economy of the daily usage over the towing needs. Wherever you have 4x4 you will be incurring higher running costs compared to an equivalent size of two-wheel drive vehicle. Not only poorer fuel consumption, but higher servicing costs, and in many cases higher VED based on CO2 products.

Most caravanners rarely encounter conditions where a 4x4 is the only solution; Traction matters can usually be avoided or overcome with a bit of forethought or lateral thinking or a bit of pushing from a friend or two!

In general the driving and passenger ride comfort is better in an MPV compared to a 4x4, and also road holding and safety are better.

For some people a 4x4 is the answer, but it is always a good idea to look for alternatives.

 

[xtrailman]

I agree with john l, don't get bogged down with the 85%, try and get it LOWER.

Towing above is not gaining anything.

 

[andrew_374241803]

Hello Andrew

With an MTPLM of 1750Kg it is a large caravan, and it is sensible to look for a vehicle that will out weigh it, but do not get too bogged down with 85%. The ratio de not have to equal it (as per Kevins posts), it is not that specific. And I do wish that people would refrain form using it as a target in isolation from all the other important factors that affect towability and control. You must also consider the way the caravan and car are loaded, The maintenance and repair of both vehicles, and the drivers abilities and driving style.

Even if you do 1200 towing miles, you are likely to be doing far more non-towing, so consider the comfort and economy of the daily usage over the towing needs. Wherever you have 4x4 you will be incurring higher running costs compared to an equivalent size of two-wheel drive vehicle. Not only poorer fuel consumption, but higher servicing costs, and in many cases higher VED based on CO2 products.

Most caravanners rarely encounter conditions where a 4x4 is the only solution; Traction matters can usually be avoided or overcome with a bit of forethought or lateral thinking or a bit of pushing from a friend or two!

In general the driving and passenger ride comfort is better in an MPV compared to a 4x4, and also road holding and safety are better.

For some people a 4x4 is the answer, but it is always a good idea to look for alternatives.

thanks jon, what kind of mpv is capable of doing the job?