TOW CAR TESTS

[anni]

I am concerned that when testing tow cars, the vans are not loaded as one would normally use them. Given the now heavy and extensive overhead lockers and storgae space in modern vans, I feel it is time that outfits are tested with the vans loaded. I think that there is a top heavy problem which isn't picked up on testing. Add to this factors like pre-fitted items may not be balanced acroos wheels etc, (we have a Bailey Pageant Monarch and the weight seems to be down one side. We have found difficulty in getting the noseweight right etc., modern vans are heavier and behave differently. Time the testers caught up?

 

[Val & Frank]

I agree, People make big decsions on these tests ie Tow car of the Year etc. Afterall most people buying magazines like PC are in the market for a Towcar, not a Luxury run about. You need as much information as possible to assist in making a correct choice. And as you rightly point out we all tow vans fully laden, not empty.

regards

Frank

 

[Val & Frank]

Today is D day for us, We will purchase our Tow Car this afternoon!!!! I hope I've got it right after 2 months of test driving different cars, albeit only with the cars solo.

That's why I think we need expert advice from magazines etc to obtain an unbiased insight into how the car behaves when towing.

You can't say to the garage, hang on mate I will just hitch the van up to see how it handles.

Val & Frank

 

[emmerson2]

Today is D day for us, We will purchase our Tow Car this afternoon!!!! I hope I've got it right after 2 months of test driving different cars, albeit only with the cars solo.

That's why I think we need expert advice from magazines etc to obtain an unbiased insight into how the car behaves when towing.

You can't say to the garage, hang on mate I will just hitch the van up to see how it handles.

Val & Frank

Why not, Frank? I used to, and if the garage wouldn't let me test tow, then I went to one that would. Daewoo once fitted a towbar to the MD's own car and loaned it me for a wekend test. I didn't buy it, but did have a good weekend! Felt a bit guilty, though! A friend did the same with a galaxy. The only people who've ever refused outright were Land Rover.

 

[Steve L]

I quite agree.

We should encourage testing of cars, pick ups and all wheel drive vehicles, to be tested with loaded caravans to get a full perspective of capability.

Also I think we should see write ups on typical family tow outfits. My in-laws are selling their 17 foot single axle van and they had a guy turn up in a 1400cc Peugeot to have a look at it. When my father in-law asked what he was towing with, he was amazed that the guy was thinking of using the Pug. Now at 71 years old even he knew that was not a goer. But it shows just how many people are not worldly wise and could end up in an accident.

But that doesn't mean the Pug could not tow a Tab caravan anyway.

So why not show us a demonstration of that combination?

Steve.

 

[Steve L]

Why not, Frank? I used to, and if the garage wouldn't let me test tow, then I went to one that would. Daewoo once fitted a towbar to the MD's own car and loaned it me for a wekend test. I didn't buy it, but did have a good weekend! Felt a bit guilty, though! A friend did the same with a galaxy. The only people who've ever refused outright were Land Rover.

That was a bit stupid of them considering 80% of their sales are to people who have a tow bar fitted. Still I suppose the cost of the tow bar was prohibative, as an extra they would be giving away at point of sale as an ex- demo model.