Help in towing suitability

[simon_5071947]

I know the 85% rule and so on, I'm pretty sure my outfit is matched ok. Just need some experienced feedback to put my mind at rest.

Am towing with a Ford Focus 1.8 Ghia Estate (petrol)2001.

Caravan is a Lunar Zenith four (2003 spec, Not the newer heavier mod)

Load the car up pretty well (have a 5 year old and a 6month old)

Any feedback would be most welcome.

Many thanks

Simon.

 

[jacky3]

1.8 Zetec 2002 1246(kbw) 1059(85%) 1200(max tow limit)

Lunar Zenith 4

--

Technical Information Zenith Four

Berths 4

Internal body length 4.63m/15'3"

Overall length 6.10m/20'0"

Internal body width 2.04m/6'8"

Overall width 2.16m/7'1"

Maximum internal height 1.90m/6'3"

Overall height 2.48m/8'1"

Tyre size 175 R13 97

Awning guide 875cm

Mass in Running Order 915kg

Total User Payload 1140kg

if this is correct, you are about 91%, which isnt the 85% you were looking for, but it is ok if you load and drive the outfit as it should be.1200 max tow isn't the best you could have but it should tow ok.maybe have to drop a gear or two now and then but overall should be ok.

 

[MickC1]

1.8 Zetec 2002 1246(kbw) 1059(85%) 1200(max tow limit)

Lunar Zenith 4

--

Technical Information Zenith Four

Berths 4

Internal body length 4.63m/15'3"

Overall length 6.10m/20'0"

Internal body width 2.04m/6'8"

Overall width 2.16m/7'1"

Maximum internal height 1.90m/6'3"

Overall height 2.48m/8'1"

Tyre size 175 R13 97

Awning guide 875cm

Mass in Running Order 915kg

Total User Payload 1140kg

if this is correct, you are about 91%, which isnt the 85% you were looking for, but it is ok if you load and drive the outfit as it should be.1200 max tow isn't the best you could have but it should tow ok.maybe have to drop a gear or two now and then but overall should be ok.

OOPS, I think that you mean Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM) 1140 kgs, and a Total User Payload of 225 kgs.

The figures in the conclusion are OK of course, just didn't want to confuse Simon.

 

[jacky3]

yep sorry for that slip

should have read miro 915 kgs

mptlm 1140 kgs(payload 225 kgs)

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Simon,

A technical point: the 85% figure is guidline not rule.

 

[cris_408518]

When loaded does it ride level? If not, forget it! Fit self leveling rear struts. Personally have fitted BOGE nivomat style struts to cars in the past. Auto factors can supply at

very reasonable prices and they are easy to swap if you can use a few spanners. BOGE help line will advise your local auto factor if you get them to call the BOGE Techy guys.