Introduction to Towing – The Basics
Version 13. 7th July 2016.
This guide is forms a basic introduction to towing and provides drivers with a better understanding
of key terminology and equipment commonly used when towing trailers and caravans. It is essential
for those contemplating towing a trailer or caravan for the first time.
If you have any queries regarding towing please contact NRMA Motoring Advice on 131122 between
8:30am – 5:00pm Monday to Friday.
Tips for driving with a Trailer or Caravan
Towing a trailer or caravan requires additional knowledge, skill and practice. All trailers or caravans
affect the performance of the tow vehicle.
When towing you may experience an increase in fuel consumption, with reduced braking ability,
reduced handling, general control and manoeuvrability. These effects become more apparent as the
size and weight of the trailer or caravan increases in proportion to the tow vehicle.
Driving proficiently with a trailer does take practice. As the driver, please remember:
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When turning, ensure you ‘swing wider’ and allow for the trailers tendency to ‘cut in’ on
corners and curves
Allow longer distances for braking, overtaking and merging into traffic
Avoid sudden lane changes – greater care should be taken when changing lanes
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Anticipate changing road and traffic conditions. Being alert and aware of traffic conditions
ahead provides more time for easier and safer stopping
Slow down well before entering corners, curves and bends
Allow adequate distance between yourself and the vehicle ahead as it will take significantly
longer to stop
Plan overtaking moves carefully. Your car and trailer/caravan require more time to overtake
safely
Use a lower gear when travelling downhill to reduce strain on the braking system
Regularly monitor the traffic behind you. Be aware of your surroundings and any vehicles
that may wish to overtake
Take extra care when parking. Remember that your trailer may be wider than the tow
vehicle. This means you must be aware of the trailer’s proximity to the kerb
Always drive to the road, traffic and weather conditions
National Towing Regulations
In an attempt to standardise different towing laws between States and Territories, in 1998 a set of
national towing regulations were introduced for vehicles not exceeding 4.5 tonnes GVM towing
trailers up to 3,500kg ATM. Refer Traffic Amendment (Towing and Mass Limits) Act, 1998
License Requirements and Other Rules
Please ensure you meet the minimum license requirements and regulations for towing in your state.
In N.S.W:
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Learner drivers are not permitted to tow
P1 license holders can tow small trailers up to 250kg of unladen weight
P2 & Fully Licensed drivers may tow any trailer which is legally coupled to any vehicle which
is covered by that license
Towing Speed Limits
The sign-posted speed limit now applies to vehicles in every State except for Western Australia,
where a 100km/h towing speed limit applies.
Please refer to your vehicle owner’s handbook as some manufacturers stipulate a speed limit lower
than 100km/h to help protect the engine and transmission from overheating.
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Towing Mass Limits
A motor vehicle with a GVM not exceeding 4.5 tonnes must not tow a trailer with a mass (including
any load) greater than:
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The capacity of the towing apparatus fitted to the vehicle; or
The maximum trailer mass specified by the manufacturer of the motor vehicle, whichever
is less
If the vehicle manufacturer has not specified the maximum trailer mass, or the limit cannot be
identified, the maximum trailer mass (including load) is:
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One and a half times the unladen mass of the motor vehicle if the trailer is fitted with
brakes; or
Equal to the unladen mass of the motor vehicle, if the trailer is not fitted with brakes
Please refer to manufacturer’s specifications as the towing mass limit on certain vehicles may vary
when travelling in off-road conditions.
Trailer / Caravan Braking Systems
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Up to 750 kg GTM – no brakes required
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751 -2000 kg GTM - braking system required on the wheels of at least one axle
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Over 2000 kg GTM – a brake system operating on all wheels is required. The trailer must
be provided with a “breakaway” system to apply the trailer brakes automatically should it
become detached from the tow vehicle
The brakes must operate on all wheels and should remain applied for at least fifteen
minutes. Where electrically operated brakes are fitted, an actuating battery should be
carried on the trailer and an indicator light or audible signal should be provided to ensure
that the battery is maintained in a fully energised condition. This indicator must be visible
or audible from the driver’s seat and operate only when the ignition is in the “on” position
or whilst the engine is running.
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Breakaway installation example:
Electric Brake Controller Units
An electric trailer brake controller is a unit / device that supplies power from the tow vehicle to a
trailers electric brake system when the vehicle’s brakes are applied. Any trailer with electric brakes
needs a brake controller to allow activation and operation of the brakes.
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Two types of electric controller are available for fitment to the tow vehicle where the
trailer has electric brakes:
1) Motion sensing - pendulum control delivers power to the trailer brakes in
direct proportion to rate of deceleration of the towing vehicle.
2) Adjustable – driver pre-sets the level of power to the trailer brakes. Trailer
brakes receive only the fixed amount of power “dialled in” under all
stopping conditions. Can be varied by the driver at any time by rotating a
control knob on the brake controller.
*NRMA Motoring and Services recommend discussing the product features
with the supplier/manufacturer.
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Safety Chains and D - Shackles
Safety chains are used to connect the trailer/caravan drawbar, to the main tow bar structure of the
towing vehicle using “D” or “Bow” type shackles.
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Safety chains are compulsory in all states/territories.
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Chains must comply with Australian Standards AS4177-4.
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Trailers to 2500kg ATM must be fitted with at least one chain of at least 9.5mm diameter.
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Trailers over 2500kg and up to 3500kg ATM must have at least two safety chains. The
chains should be as short as possible whilst long enough to permit tight turns and should
be crossed below the towbar tongue to prevent the end of the drawbar hitting the ground
if the coupling becomes disconnected.
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“Bow” or “D” type shackles are used to connect the safety chain of the trailer or caravan to the main
tow bar structure of the towing vehicle.
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In the interest of road safety it is recommended that chains are attached by D-shackles
that are either certified to Australian Standards AS 2741-2002, or are identifiable as of
suitable design for the trailer and towing vehicle combination.
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Australian Standards AS2741-2002 relates to shackles used in lifting systems. We
understand at this time, that there are no specific requirements for “D” or “Bow” shackles
applicable to trailer or caravan towing.
Coupling Height
Australian Standard AS 4177-3 states that ball couplings must be installed so that when the coupling
and tow ball are connected to the laden towing vehicle, the height to the centre of the tow ball
above the ground shall measure between 350 mm and 460 mm above the ground, or be capable of
being adjusted.
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Trailer / Caravan Stability
The most common complaint reported by NRMA Members when towing, is trailer sway, or “fishtailing”. This can be caused by incorrect car and trailer balance. As a rule of thumb, 7-15 percent of
the trailer mass should be supported by the vehicle tow ball. The vehicle manufacturers’ handbook
specifies the legal maximum ball mass (sometimes called the nose weight) carried by the tow ball of
the towing vehicle.
The onset of trailer sway can be rapid, giving the driver little or no warning. Trailer sway can be
triggered by incorrect ball weight, sudden crosswinds, large trucks passing, rough road surfaces,
sudden application of brakes while descending hills, swerving to avoid an obstacle or attempting to
correct the trailer after the near side wheels catch the road shoulder.
To control a swaying trailer:
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Stay calm and hold a steady course.
Do not try and steer out of the sway.
Ease off the accelerator until the sway stops.
Never apply the brakes of the tow vehicle as this action may cause the trailer to
“jack knife” or overturn.
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Where an electric brake controller is fitted, gently apply the trailer’s electric brakes using
the manual control on the front of the unit.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is now supplied on many new caravans fitted with electric brakes.
The system can be retro fitted to caravans equipped with compatible wheel hubs.
Weight Distribution Hitch (Load Equalizer)
A weight distribution hitch or load equalizer is used to level the car/trailer by transferring weight
from the rear axle of the towing vehicle to the front. When correctly adjusted, the front and rear
travelling height of the vehicle will be restored close to the original specifications. Manufacturer’s
ball mass (nose weight) must not be exceeded when using load equalisers.
Weight Distribution Hitch (Load Equalizer) example:
Australian Caravan+RV magazine features further information on Weight Distribution Hitches or
Load Equalizers.
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Suspension Air-bags and Helper Springs
Suspension airbags and spring uplifts may reduce load on shock absorbers by raising the rear of the
tow vehicle, however they do not transfer weight from the rear axle to the front axle.
Rear Load Projection or Overhang
It is important that trailers are not overloaded and that loads are properly secured to or contained
within the trailer:
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A load must not project more than 150mm beyond the trailer’s width or be more than 2.5m
overall width, whichever is less.
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Loads that project more than 1.2m behind a trailer must have a red flag attached to the end
of the load. This flag must be at least 300 mm square and clearly visible.
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Between sunset and sunrise, or when there is insufficient daylight, a clear red light or at
least two red reflectors must be fixed to the end of any projecting load.
Overall Length
The overall length of vehicle and trailer combination must not exceed 19 metres
Fifth Wheeler or Gooseneck Caravan
In a Fifth Wheel or Gooseneck application, the trailer hitch is located in the tray of the utility or truck
usually over the rear axle. Front axle loading remains essentially unchanged unless the hitch position
is slightly ahead, or behind, the rear axle. In calculating the towing capacity of a fifth wheel vehicle
the manufacturer’s Gross Axle Weight ratings, GVM and GCM must not be exceeded. This
arrangement allows more weight to be carried than would be if a trailer were attached to a rear
mounted tow-ball. Pitching and fish-tailing of the trailer are virtually eliminated.
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Fifth Wheel Arrangement
Conventional Arrangement
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Rear Marker Plates
Rear marking plates may be fitted to the back of a caravan or trailer if the combined length of the
towing vehicle and trailer is 7.5 metres in length or longer. However they are not compulsory.
ONLY vehicles with an overall length of 7.5 metres or longer are permitted to display a “DO NOT
OVERTAKE TURNING VEHICLE” sign on the caravan or trailer. This can either be a separate sign
located on the left hand side or incorporated in the left hand side marking plate.
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Trailer / Towing Check list – Connecting the trailer to the tow vehicle:
1. Inspect towbar / tow ball and check for serviceability, integrity and rating.
Rating information can be found in the vehicle owner’s manual or for vehicles fitted with a
towbar after 1992; the tow bar will be equipped with a compliance plate indicating load
capacity and designation.
2. Attach the trailer coupling over the towing vehicles tow ball. Ensure the coupling locking
latch (or hand wheel) are in the locked position.
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Incorrect Fitment
Correct Fitment
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3. Attach safety chains from trailer to tow vehicle with “D” shackles.
Note: Trailers over 2.5 tonne ATM must be connected to the towing vehicle using 2 safety
chains. Chains should be connected allowing enough slack in the chain or chains for turns.
The safety chains should never drag on the ground.
4. Connect the power cable from the trailer to the towing vehicle. The most common type of
connection used is a 7 pin “flat” configuration:
* Socket on tow vehicle.
*Plug on trailer.
Other plug / socket combinations may be found on older trailers. These include 6 and 7 pin
“round” configurations:
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*Round type socket.
*Round type plug on trailer.
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Adaptors are available should a different configuration be present.
Once connected, check all lights: stop lights, indicators, parking lights, number plate lights etc.
5. If fitted with a Jockey wheel, ensure the jockey wheel is raised and locked into position.
Lowered Position
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Raised Position
Pivot/Folding Arrangement
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6. If fitted with a hand brake, ensure the brake is “off” and the coupling brake lockout is in the
open position to engage breaking on “over-ride” braking systems.
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Trailer / Towing Check list –Before Towing (Trailer):
1. Check all tyres for wear and correct inflation.
2. Check spare tyre condition, inflation and security.
3. Check for any excess wheel bearing free play. (Wheel bearings may require inspection, repacking with grease and adjustment).
4. Ensure you have the correct safety equipment available: Vehicle jack, wheel brace, wheel
chocks, flags for overhanging loads etc.
5. Ensure load is secure for travel (ropes, straps etc.)and that heavier items are placed toward
the front of the trailer.
Trailer / Towing Check list –Before Towing (Tow Vehicle):
1. Check tyres for wear and correct inflation.
2. Check under bonnet fluid levels – engine oil, transmission oil, brake fluid, power steering
fluid, coolant level etc.
3. Adjust mirrors accordingly.
4. Ensure both the tow vehicle and trailer are road worthy and registered.
Glossary of key terms:
This glossary contains key words and definitions that appear frequently when describing or towing a
trailer/caravan.
Trailer - any box trailer, boat trailer, tent trailer, camper trailer, horse float or caravan.
Kerb Mass – is the mass of an empty motor vehicle excluding passengers and goods.
Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) – is the maximum allowable mass of a motor vehicle consisting of the
tare mass plus the load, including passengers and Ball Mass.
Ball Mass or Nose Weight – is the amount of vertical load transferred to the rear of the towing
vehicle by the trailer. The maximum allowable ball mass or nose weight is specified by the vehicle
manufacturer. This must not to be exceeded.
Tare Mass – is the unladen weight of a trailer as it leaves the factory excluding water and gas.
Accessories including air conditioning, solar panels and batteries are included in the Tare mass if
fitted in the factory at the time of manufacture.
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Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) – is the total permissible mass including payload that can be supported by
the wheels of a trailer when coupled to the towing vehicle.
Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) – is the total weight of a caravan/trailer including the payload
(water, gas, luggage etc.) when uncoupled from the tow vehicle. This must be observed when
determining the suitability of a tow vehicle.
Please see example photos below:
Gross Combination Mass (GCM) – is the maximum laden mass of a motor vehicle plus the maximum
laden weight of an attached trailer. This value is specified by the manufacturer of the tow vehicle.
This must not be exceeded.
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Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) – is the specified maximum allowable weight on a front axle or
rear axle. GAWR is commonly followed by either the letters FR or RR, which indicate front or rear
axles respectively.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this guide is of a general nature only and may not be valid or current in
jurisdictions mentioned.
References and further reading.
Australian Caravan+RV magazine - www.acrvmag.com.au
Towing Trailers – Things you should know booklet (RMS).
Towing Trailers - Things You Should Know
Roads and Maritime Service website.
RMS Website - Towing
Towing Guide Booklet – Caravan and Camping Industry Association NSW
Towing Guide Caravan and Camping Industry Association NSW
Hayman Reese Australia.
http://www.haymanreese.com.au/
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