Comments on: Towing – do your research

By: Ben

Ben — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 20:15:44 +0000

According to Nissan, for an Xtrail using a Nissan Genuine towbar, they ‘do not recommend fitting load levelling or weight distribution devices’ [actually stated in their specifications]. If you do use them it can crack the chassis near the tow bar. I have come across some travellers who have had this problem and Nissan would not cover it under warranty. I stopped using my load levelling system when I became aware of this problem.

By: Cameron

Cameron — Fri, 30 May 2008 13:13:13 +0000

Whilst this issue is one which must be taken seriously, there can sometimes be a funny side to towing mishaps.
I recently came across an example of this on the home page of http://www.aussieusedcaravans.info. The YouTube video has to be seen to be believed. Such “ninkompoops” do exist. I trust that the driver actually learned something in the process.

By: Ken Hammond

Ken Hammond — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:56:28 +0000

Whilst knowing the legal towing capacity of your vehicle is important, you must also know the allowable maximum tow ball vertical load, particularly if you are towing a caravan. Caravans typically have around 10% of their gross mass supported by the tow ball. Many vehicles have tow ball limits much less than 10% of the towing capacity. I tow a 1400kg caravan with my Nissan X-Trail which is rated to tow 2000kgs but has a tow ball limit of just 150kgs. My caravan is within that limit but only just.
Also, if you are towing a caravan which is close to your vehicles maximum, you should confirm the actual caravan loaded weight and tow ball load at a weighbridge. And, don’t forget to use a suitable weight distribution hitch. I believe they should be mandatory.