Nose gauge & weight distribution problems

[Lutz]

As long as the nose weight is reasonably accurate, there is no concern. After all when travelling the nose weight could probably fluctuate between zero and +200kg.

Instantaneous dynamic values will fluctuate a lot more than that.

 

[Buckman]

Instantaneous dynamic values will fluctuate a lot more than that.

I think we all know that which is why I used the word "probably" as none of us really knows!

 

[Lutz]

I think we all know that which is why I used the word "probably" as none of us really knows!

True, but in the engineering community one generally works with peak values approximately 8 times the nominal static figure.

 

[Buckman]

True, but in the engineering community one generally works with peak values approximately 8 times the nominal static figure.

However most people using a caravan are not engineers. After all we are only talking about nose weight on a flimsy caravan and not launching a complicated tech heavy satellite into outer space. 🤣

 

[Lutz]

However most people using a caravan are not engineers. After all we are only talking about nose weight on a flimsy caravan and not launching a complicated tech heavy satellite into outer space. 🤣

Whether it's something complex like a satellite in space or a simple caravan being towed over a potholed road, a peak being many times the static value will be about the same. An instantaneous peak noseweight value of 800kg or even more wouldn't be unreasonable to expect if the caravan hits a pothole or an unexpected speed bump. Besides, it may surprise you, but even caravans are engineered.

 

[ProfJohnL]

With the deteriorating condition of many of the UK's roads, both the frequency and severity of shock loads imposed into an outfit by towing are increasing. The shock loads are expressed as accelerations proportional to earths gravity hence we give them the initial unit of G's. And because the dynamic loads are directly proportional to the static load, multiplied by the G forces imposed by the motion of the outfit, there is an increasing chance of exceeding the designed safety margins if you exceed the manufacturers static S values. It is mechanically sensible to maximise your safety margin, by only using enough of your nose load capacity to endow your outfit with adequate stability to cover normal driving.