Understanding the intricacies of towing is paramount

We all understand the basics of towing, yet it is more than merely attaching something to your tow ball and taking off.
Starting with the essentials, the Tare Mass stands as a fundamental pillar. This refers to the weight of an empty vehicle or trailer, sans passengers or goods. By understanding your vehicle’s Tare Mass, you lay the foundation for a safer towing experience, allowing you to calculate the load you can safely add.
As we delve deeper into the mechanics of towing, the role of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) emerges as a game-changer. Steering a vehicle burdened with an additional load is an art. With ESC, drivers are armed with an advanced system designed to maintain control during unexpected road conditions or sudden manoeuvres.
BAW Automotive says it specialises in enhancing vehicle safety through tailored installations, and notes that when equipping vehicles with electronic brake controllers, it is crucial these are finely tuned to work in tandem with the ESC.
BAW Automotive says its comprehensive installation process begins with a meticulous calibration tailored to each specific vehicle. It then integrates sensors designed to continuously monitor vehicle dynamics, ensuring they communicate effectively with the braking system, with this synergy reportedly providing “unparalleled stability and safety during towing scenarios.”
For those using caravans, BAW Automotive says it is also essential to understand the value of sway control.

When caravans begin to sway, particularly in downhill situations, it can compromise the safety of both the driver and other road users. Sway control acts proactively in these instances, activating the trailer brakes in a manner reminiscent of an ABS system. This action helps to quickly realign the caravan, reducing the risk of accidents.
It is also important that drivers are educated on the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) – the maximum allowable weight. Going beyond this limit isn’t just detrimental to the caravan and vehicle; it is a potential road safety hazard. Therefore, periodically checking and adjusting the weight of your caravan’s contents to remain within GVM limits is essential.
Part of towing a van well also means understanding the nuances of packing: it is not just about fitting everything inside; it is about where it all goes. Distributing weight unevenly can affect the caravan’s stability during transit, so aim for a balanced pack, ensuring the ball weight remains within recommended limits – neither too heavy or too light. This balance not only ensures a smoother drive but also reduces strain on your towing vehicle and enhances overall safety.
For those who find themselves often pushing the weight limits, a caravan GVM upgrade can offer a practical solution. By undertaking a GVM upgrade, you increase the legal carrying capacity of your caravan. This process involves modifying or replacing key suspension components, reassessing the braking systems, and often reinforcing the chassis to safely carry additional weight.
BAW Automotive says it has perfected the Caravan GVM upgrade process, ensuring that it aligns with safety standards and regulations. And don’t forget – before setting out, a thorough check of both your vehicle and the trailer or caravan is a must.

For more from BAW Automotive, visit www.bawauto.com.au