TSA + ATC

[David.R]

We tow with a Honda CR-V which is fitted with TSA(Trailer Stability Assist) which works in conjunction VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist)to initiate the appropriate brake application to stabilise the trailer/caravan in the event of the caravan snaking. We are buying a new caravan which is fitted with Alko ATC Trailer Control System. Is there any posibility that these systems could conflict with each other and therefore create more problems than they prevent? (The Honda's VSA system can be turned off manually).

 

[JTQ]

Interesting question and one that you really ought to address to Al-Ko UK; I found them technically very helpful and as this has safety implications they are effectively bound to help.

I have my own technical opinion but as its a safety related issue I dare not get drawn into commenting.

Please publish the answer you receive.

 

[Lutz]

There is no reason why the two should ever conflict with one another. Both basically work on the same principle, detecting sideways swaying motion and applying the brakes accordingly (in the case of TSA the car's brakes, in the case the ATC, or any othe electronic trailer stabiliser, the caravan's). Theoretically, as the ATC is closer to the source of the instability, it should react first. TSA will only intervene if the caravan's sway gets bad enough to affect the car as well. Unless the ATC is set to be significantly less sensitive than the TSA, it will have already done its job before the TSA has even identified a sway, thus making the TSA redundant.

 

[v.meldrew2]

I don't have as much technical understanding of how the devices work as Lutz, but based on experience I would say the systems are compatible. Since Easter we have towed our Senator Indiana with ATC with our CRV with TSA for well over 3000 miles in UK and France on all kinds of roads. I was only aware of one or other of the systems activating on two occasions, both at very low speed and for no apparent reason - it just felt like the brakes were being briefly applied by a mysterious third force! We are off again on Monday to Dalby, and may experience some more challenging weather conditions to test the effectiveness of the systems. Fingers crossed!

 

[Dave_374330759]

As they aren't connected to each other there should be no conflict. The ATC should take care of any van swaying and if the TSA has to come into action as well then I'd think that you were definitely going too fast or in a very dodgy situation and I'd want all the help I could get (a bit of prayer might be needed as well).

 

[Lutz]

The TSA would definitely be an advantage if towing a caravan without ATC (or IDC or other comparable systems).