The dumbest thing caravanners always say | Auto Expert john Cadogan

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[@waynefirns6626]

Thank fuck. Someone who actually understands. I grew up around caravans. We owned a caravan park and I could reverse a van into a site by the time I was 10. (I learnt to drive on a Massey Ferguson tractor when I was 8.) Back then, 1970's, there wasn't the rating systems for towing as there are now. The rule of thumb was, the towing vehicle weighed more than what you were towing. This took into account "Physics 101" that states "A heavier weight will always control a lighter weight". Just because manufacturers say their vehicle can tow 3.5tonne, it does not mean that, when something goes wrong, your 2.1tonne vehicle can control the heavier caravan. Just because you have been driving around town in your commuter car for the last 40 years without an accident, does not mean you are experienced enough to suddenly get into a differently configured, over-rated vehicle with an extra few tonnes hooked to the back and believe you can safely traverse this countrys appalling highways safely.

[@DiscoInferno166]

I have been a caravaner for most of my 52 years. Grew up with a small caravan weighing less than 1000kg, getting my own that still only weighs less than 1000kg and I tow max 100km/h. My Discovery 3 V8 could easily run at 140km/h with the van behind it but we always cruise at a speed that allows for evasive action should the need arise. These heavy rigs getting towed and landspeed record attempt speeds scares the shite out of me.

[@stuartwood7252]

"Physics doesn't give a shit what you think" That's a Tshirt I'd like.

[@justwanttobeleftalone9316]

Biology would be the same

[@markh.6687]

"Science and facts don't care about your feelings or 'rights'."

[@jefftheaussie2225]

Facts also don’t give a f… what anyone thinks, they are facts.

[@buncha5651]

The most rediculas thing about caravanning is that you can buy one and head out on the highway without any licence upgrade. 😮

[@Low760]

And Qld wants to let people tow heavier. In America you don't need a truck license with certain trucks going by cleatus MacFarland etc.

[@BubblesTheCat1]

It used to be like that in South Africa as well but now you've gotta get a licence upgrade

[@krissteel4074]

The few times I've had to tow anything was an absolutely miserable f-cking experience. If you've found yourself enjoying it in your own free time, then doing it for long distances and not getting truck driver wages, I just don't know what's gone wrong to put you there and I hope you get some help.

[@jb243wp]

You can buy a boat and trailer or a horse float and do the exact same, its no different... The amount of times I've seen a vehicle towing a hired car trailer with a 4x4 mounted on it far out weights the amount of times I've seen caravan'ers doing the wrong thing.. Vehicle towing a stockcar trailer, say 900kg tare weight plus the actual vehicle on the trailer (mostly some big arse 4x4) is way more over the limit than any caravan. Most hire car trailers do not have electric/ breakaway brakes they mostly only have motion/ over-ride system brakes which is think only rated to 2000kg, that does not add up. Can you look into the car towing a loaded car trailer please John and give us your thoughts 😊

[@BubblesTheCat1]

@@jb243wp yep that's also very dangerous

[@deathscythehell7937]

Again you're spot on, don't think that this is just an Australian problem. I've driven tractor trailers for 32yrs and own a small trucking company in the United States. Twice these people pulling trailers with SUV's have wrecked one of my trucks putting the driver and truck out of commission. If a professional driver needs to take anywhere between 350 to 500 question test depending on the endorsement required plus take a driving test on the vehicle. Why shouldn't these weekend Willie's have to do the same thing? Loved the Dutch oven metaphor in the last video.

[@bruiser6479]

The great thing about being a caravaner is hooking it up for a busy long weekend and towing it slowly along the secondary highways. That my friend is a slice of fried gold for any budding misanthrope. The icing on the cake is speeding up when you hit the overtaking lane.

[@AutoExpertJC]

This is why we have such strict gun laws.

[@iflyrc1410]

It's a little known fact that the dual lane signs contain a subliminal message that only slow drivers can read, telling them to speed up.

[@bruiser6479]

@@AutoExpertJC The truly gifted caravan owners plan their attacks. You lie in wait at a roadside rest area until you see a big line of cars approaching. You then pull out in front of them at a pace that prevents any of them being able to get past. It’s imperative that you vary your speed so that nobody behind you can actually settle in to a steady pace. If you are travelling in a remote area it’s even better if you can pull into the fuel bowsers in such a way as to prevent anybody but you using a chunk of them. You know you are in the presence of greatness when you see the owner hop out and spend a good 15 minutes faffing about before paying for their fuel. Maybe even stopping to talk to a random stranger before eventually heading back out onto the highway.

[@JAStheACE]

@@bruiser6479 This is some funny shit, and dead correct from my experience on the highways. I'm one of those juice guzzling V8 old car owners that round all you floggers up when the OVERTAKING LANE is available. Good on you Bruiser6479 for making my day.

[@alanhilder1883]

@@JAStheACE A WRX does it great BUT the cops are always waiting just there. Dear cops, if you are setting up your "speedtrap" like this, do it properly. You need (minimum) 3 cars. Two hidden outside the overtaking lane an one in the middle. If the "slow car" is still in front after the overtaking lane, book them for dangerous driving or whatever you want to call it. Otherwise allow the other cars to get by.

[@VK6RM]

This wins the internet. Having mechanical workshops in tourist areas, caravans eat up many hours of our team needing to explain basic physics to their owners. I’m putting this on a constant loop in our waiting rooms…

[@FlakeyPM]

John has done better ones. Look for the ones where he demonstrates pitch and yaw

[@vaughan7835]

An old guy (in his 70s?) from Newcastle NSW, towed his huge caravan, just up the road to Port Stephens, then just left it at a beach carpark for about a month. Another local guy asked the cops to do a welfare check at his address & we found out that "he was frightened driving up cos the wind was howling (common here) & the traffic behind him was banking up" but he was apparently ok. Eventually, he got someone else to take it home for him. We all hoped he would sell it, for everybodys safety!

[@markh.6687]

At least he decided for safety instead of risking driving it himself. I give him a lot of points on his score for making that decision. As Dirty Harry said "A man's got to know his limitations."

[@willtricks9432]

I have just got back from a caravan break in the UK. The day we were meant to go home there were 55 mph cross winds and heavy rain so I paid £20.00 for another night and drove home in the sun, safe and sound. Risk assessment is key but if you are stupid you will get into trouble.

[@erka001]

In Europe the heaviest you can tow without a new licence (E) is 750 kg. Which is a good thing seeing that people who tow will still overtake you on the highway going 120 km/h, when they should be doing 80 theoretically. Imagine if they'd be towing tons.

[@Robert-cu9bm]

Depends on when and where you got your license. Old licence holders automatically got towing rights. And transferring from an international licence you get them too.

[@paulnotdownunder3172]

You clearly havent driven through the Netherlands during Summer.

[@kathrynwhitby9799]

isn't the 750kg the limit for unbraked trailers?

[@erka001]

@@kathrynwhitby9799 Unbraked trailers can't be more than 750, that's true, but if you want to tow more you need the licence for larger trailers - which are all with brakes as far as I know.

[@erka001]

@@Robert-cu9bm not sure what you mean, I had my B license for 20 years when I got my CE in 2019. International - I have no idea, but why would the rule be different, it's a safety issue. You may be right, but I would find it strange if an American with their one day license could tow heavy in Europe :))

[@richardlove4287]

Never underestimate the sheer stupidity of the general public John, just look at their voting prowess. The worst thing is that not only can they vote and breed but they can drive. Australia’s fkd mate.

[@Low760]

Only 2% vote one nation and united Australia though?

[@onedayatatime4232]

So this applies to ones self does it 🤣😂.

[@jamesrebbechi5247]

So well said SirRichard

[@adamrichards2072]

​@Low760 I would estimate that caravaners would be over represented in the UAP votes, though...

[@fawshaw3361]

Let's not get political, we wouldn't want to end up like those shit cunts in U.S.A.

[@paulcrouchley6289]

I volunteer with the SES in W.A. We drive Landcruisers (mostly) and drag around 2 tonne trailers loader with all sorts of gear. Before any new members start dragging these trailers we put them through a familiarization course. First driving the Landcruiser, when we are happy that they can handle that, then train on towing the trailers. Out to a vacant car park or open area, driving around obstacles, reversing around same, up and down hills and all kids of weather. You don't go on the road until we are happy with your skills and then for the fist few trips drive under supervision. Sort of training any caravan owner should be made to do. Helped me a lot when towing caravans, especially 3 1/2 tonne exploration caravans in all kinds of conditions and terrain.

[@ianweal3081]

There's the first mistake, towing with 70 series cruisers. They are the most unstable tow vehicle on the road and the fact ADR accept Toyota's ridiculous 3.5 Tonne Tow Rating makes a total mockery of our road safety regulations. At least you're only towing Two Tonne, so there's half a chance you'll get to a destination without scarring the crap out of your fellow motorists as the Cruiser wonders into their lane being steered by the trailer. SES WA are to be praised for realising this and teaching operators how to drive a Toyota first, prior to then towing with it. First thing that needs rectification, manufacturers should accurately rate their vehicles that the public willingly accept as gospel. The 70 series is dangerous towing anything, but shit loads of hyped up Toyota owners accept it's capable of 3.5 Tonne. Note: It's only when they trade up they discover how crap they were. Talking from experience of owning one and a companion whom sware by his until he got a new tow vehicle, wow, that thing was a shit box, ha! I can now relax. Mine was so fatiguing.

[@chrishewitt4220]

Caravanners -the gift that keeps giving!

[@paulnotdownunder3172]

Sh!tters full!

[@jamesdk5417]

I am so glad all the advertising shows you have been doing lately has allowed the budget for the return of the models.

[@sidecarmisanthrope5927]

That video clip showed me some very interesting points. Thanks John.

[@Equiluxe1]

In the US they do have what they call a "Goose neck trailer" which is really a semi trailer made for use with a pick up or as they are called in Australia a "Ute".

[@blackadder1424]

In OZ we call that a 5th wheel ie it has a dolly

[@72xafalcon]

It doesn't have a dolly you dolt, it either has a large towball, not sure what size but large or it has turntable like a semi

[@NortyNige]

Those things became such an issue in the US the state of California made them take a non commercial class A truck license as they had become such death traps even the authorities noticed. From what I understand all other states have now introduced the same to help keep the number of those dolts off of the highway or at least half aware of what they are actually driving.

[@Equiluxe1]

@@blackadder1424 In the UK a dolly is a fifth wheel on a tow bar trailer with the artic trailer hitched onto the fifth wheel. A goose neck trailer has a small fifth wheel or a large ball coupling in the middle of the pick up buck the trailer has a crane like drawbar that reaches into the buck so as to clear the sides on turning.

[@cameronbrown7925]

Interesting how different countries have different names for things. In Australia a dolly is a small (by truck standards) trailer with an axle (or two or three or more) and a turntable, used for when your rig has two or more trailers. It turns a semi-trailer into a dog-type trailer. I say dog-type because on an actual dog trailer the front axle/s is/are part of the trailer.

[@grantnorris7890]

How ironic. The first add I get is the Honey Badger sitting outside a caravan flogging electronic gear😂

[@kenharris5390]

I've been punching semi-trailers around for most of my long Gin soaked life and the number of times I've seen the tail start wagging the dog on a caravan is amazing. I can assure you of one thing, and that is that the majority of drivers on the road are either deaf, dumb, blind or stupid, sometimes there are combinations of all of these afflictions, add a caravan to the list and the chances of attacking the scenery or painting bitumen adds an extra naught to the chances reaching number one on the Darwin Awards.

[@homomorphic]

Here in 'merica 5th wheels are quite common on consumer vehicles (pickups) and they are configured exactly as you describe with a ball plate between the rear wheels right over the axle. The axles (and bed and chassis) are typically reinforced and very substantial with dual wheels.

[@JT_771]

Which does help, though doesn't fully equate it, as it still isn't carrying 50% of the trailer weight. Still, definitely an improvement.

[@homomorphic]

@@JT_771 yup around 20% of the tailers weight give or take, but yes much more stable.

[@jefftheaussie2225]

We see those ‘5th wheel’ set ups here too. They have their own special beard stroking club.

[@homomorphic]

@@jefftheaussie2225 lol

[@anvilsvs]

Actually 5th wheel and gooseneck hitches are normally set about 4-5 inches ahead of the rear axle. And work far, far better than "bumper" (includes drawbar types) hitches.

[@Moose906]

I must say this was a very nice video to behold, especially from 2:45 to 3:15. Definitely held my interest…. 🎉

[@markh.6687]

I'd like to be holding those women myself. (Imitating Groucho Marx wiggling eyebrows and cigar).

[@sprendergast351]

You are correct John, it is a complete waste of time trying to explain two pivot points and a bit of physics. Hence why I chose to tow a 5th wheeler safely with my family onboard the prime mover. I can understand after 10 years of towing why 5th wheelers are popular in the states. No point even attempting a rational discussion. 😂

[@waldopepper4069]

lol, loved the boobie break john. that made my day. keep up the great work sir. loving your facts based EV videos. so refreshing to hear from someone who understands real maths, science and physics, rather than the politically correct versions of same that most others use. and i vote for more boobies shots in the future. just saying.

[@grantleyhughes]

Yes. Although if I have to hear about caravan and rv people (sigh), I deserve some boobies!!

[@BlairSauer]

😂😂

[@robg6485]

2:46 Ooh witness the fitness! Thank you Sir Cadogan of Ming Moleville! YESSSSSSSSS!

[@sebastianmessina31]

Hi Johno, Regarding caravans I have owned a Jayco mobile mini apartment for three years, doing a couple of trips a year and love it. The most only thing that is undignified is the effluent walk but I can handle that. I agree with your statement that the tow vehicle should be heavier than the towed vehicle. GCM really verifies this as well. 3.5 tonne tow limits on double cabs is insanity as is towing at more than 95 km. 😮😮Have a great day.

[@toddavis8151]

I recently purchased a camper but after listening to your advice I spent more to get a lighter weight one. My Mitsubishi challenger has a TARE of approximately 1.9t and the GVM of the trailer is 1.5t. And since I’m traveling alone I can be confident that I’ll be as safe as possible

[@BubblesTheCat1]

Don't travel alone, get a kitty or something to accompany you😊 My cat is always with me💕🐈😻👍🏻

[@scroungasworkshop4663]

Mmmmm boobies. This caravaner remembers back in the ‘70s when the authorities changed the rules regarding towing, mandating that the trailer being towed must not weigh more than the vehicle doing the towing. That had the horsey types with their double horse floats and those people towing giant caravans with things like Fairlanes and Statesmans all seeing red but sales of F150s and light trucks shot up. Somewhere along the line this rule seems to have changed and now it’s the manufacturers dictating the rules. I just can’t get my head around a 2.3 ton dual cab towing a 3.5 ton trailer, but, apparently the manufacturers say it’s ok. Personally, I tow a 1.8 ton caravan with a 2.7 ton Land Cruiser and I understand the difference between the way a semi trailer and a caravan are configured. We’re not all stupid.

[@MichaelCsikos]

It gets worse. The new F150 and RAM 1500 weigh only 2300 - 2600 kg and claim 4500 tow ratings.

[@rossatkinson3160]

@@MichaelCsikos and they are near impossible to de legally, they can easily exceed their rear axle load limits at 3.5t as a rule, all three, the RAM 1500, Chev 1500 and the F150. All about as useful as a front door on a canoe. Pathetic payloads, and just as pathetic rear axle load limits. The only vehicles suitable for 4.5t towing are 2500s and F250s or bigger, and also the light trucks like Izuzu NPRs and Canters and the like. And mostly, all of these need to be NB2 light truck rego to be of use, as NB1, they too have terrible payloads now.

[@MichaelCsikos]

@@rossatkinson3160 I came to the same conclusion. Another factor for me was having 6 seatbelts with sashes, which the Isuzu / Hino / Fuso trucks don't offer. The 99-06 F250 can be retrofitted with a newer jump seat from 2011-16 with a proper seatbelt. So we've got a 6 seater with over 1000 kg payload @ 4495 kg GVM and 2817 kg rear axle rating: a true 4.5 t tow rig.

[@rossatkinson3160]

@@MichaelCsikos caravan, what caravan?? LOL

[@MichaelCsikos]

@@rossatkinson3160 Our caravan is 3.5 t ATM, but with 350 kg on the towball, 6 people and extra stuff it's pretty hard to stay within the GVM of most vehicles

[@garfieldsmith332]

In my province in Canada you can tow a "fifth wheel" trailer with a pickup truck up to 10,000 KG total weight (24,240 Lbb) with just a regular drivers license (class G). No training or special license required.

[@piperracing26]

Another great video with solid information. And I know I shouldn't be so happy about it 😂 but it is great to see the fun back into the videos and John helping support the mingmols again 😂

[@robward7662]

Was about to complain about your recent KZbin vids , pleased to see my complaint fixed and a very nice fix they were.

[@rodhinds4592]

Having driven both Semi Trailers and the odd Caravan I would like to add that not only are they configured differently they are also [ generally ] driven differently . The driving position for a Semi is 2 or 3 mts higher allowing very good vision of the road ahead. This gives the driver more time to anticipate potential issues . Large side mirrors provide reasonably clear warning of rear threats. Also the information coming up through the seat of your pants is clearly telling you that the 60 or 70 tons that is just behind you will continue on it's current trajectory and flatten you if you do something too stupid . Now yes there are some cowboys out there but most of them have short rodeos. I try to adopt a professional approach to all my driving . Towing a Caravan should present no problem if treated with respect.

[@johnbodnar3720]

Thank you for the video inserts, I will study this very rigorously

[@MussaKZN]

I 100% support licensing upgrade and advanced drivers course when towing a caravan. And I do own and operate a off road camper. Last long weekend vicroads had 6 combination 4x4 and caravans pulled over testing weights and combination five vehicles were over weight, they were not allowed to leave till weight was corrected.. or the caravan was removed by a towing company. 😮

[@dylanwebb9584]

Ah! Dunning-Kruger! Love those two boys. They really did help me understand the management personnel at my former employer - a tertiary Institute ranked 63/66 (only three places to go!!!). D-K really is the gift that goes on and on and on. Well done JC.

[@fredscheerle7592]

Very informative John, My pet hate is those towing Mirrors ,m They are always extended, never retuned to there rightful place.

[@jasonhall7753]

Jeepers JC, great video that was informative as usual. In the lead up to the discussion about the semi, the physics-defying hotties in the gym created an entirely different sort of semi! Keep up the great work sir!

[@markh.6687]

Oh, I'd say those hotties created a full, not a semi! 😁

[@MattBrownbill]

The only woman I like with a 6-pack is my wife, with the beers... 😂

[@paulwalker9014]

I was daydreaming about boobies for more than 35% of that.

[@alanhilder1883]

I had trouble with the maths on that... 35% boobies, 35% hip/legs, 35% general "rest of the package",... What was the discussion about again.

[@willtricks9432]

My dad was a truck driver from the age of 12 here in the UK, the past is a different country. he drove HGV all his life and he never wanted to tow a caravan.I started driving at 22 and within a year I was driving a 7.5 ton truck and towing work trailers, all legal and insured, on and off road. I have towed caravans for many years all legal and safe but it is a dodgy way to get around. I did not pay attention at school but have seen many educated, qualified and licensed idiots performing near death actions in ordinary car without caravans attached. I have tidied up a caravan someone else had flipped which nearly took the car with it. Cheers

[@alantaylor2718]

I am a caravan we John and have a very stable dual axle setup. Everything you stated on this episode is 100% correct. Respect for the physics is key to staying safe. There should be a driving/towing setup course prior to be allowed to tow a shitbox like mine. Ford Ranger and 2200 kg Jayco dual axle. Tows like a dream at 100 k’s. Suspension setup on the Ranger lift kit and spring mods to suit. Common sense rules.

[@captcarlos]

This is where I say an endorsement on your licence for towing, with different classes for different combined gvm. I've done a lot of miles trucking and seen too many of these spread down the road.

[@Robert-cu9bm]

They can't even give it licences correctly, more bureaucracy is only bad for citizens. We want more freedoms not less.

[@justwanttobeleftalone9316]

Yeah and be able to reverse around a corner on the blind side to get a heavy combination licence

[@davidvanderklauw]

@@justwanttobeleftalone9316 Some foreign drivers don't even do the backward thing.

[@jeff8420]

@@KWUnt many truck drivers cant drive forward in a straight line, i think that there needs to be more done about truck licences than caravaners, over 30 years on the road and i have seen way more trucks in the bush than caravans

[@RedPillRachel]

Thank you so much for this! I am converting a surrey bike (bicycle with 4 sturdy motorbike wheels and a roof but no body) to a Pedelec, to tow a trailer with a solar panel on top, with a tent and woodstove in the cupboards, and I have been arguing with a retired veteran "engineer" about whether to position the towbar like a car, or put it at the pivot point between the rear wheels, and load my trailer front heavy. The "engineer" said that I should copy Ford and put it rearward of the 'car', gosh, had I ever seem a caravan like that before, and how stupid I am for even suggesting something so whacky. This video is proof that I should stop doubting my intelligence and following the "established order". Not only will I have more options for reinforcement with my idea, it turns out that I was right, and this will increase my vehicle's stability. Don't worry, we're talking top speeds of 10-15 miles per hour, over long distances! Thank you so much, this makes such a difference to how I feel about how the project is going and how good it could be!

[@lady_brickskater]

In previous employment i had the pleasure of driving a small tractor trailer combination. The tractor was a 3500kg max weight vehicle, with the vehicle weighing 2000kg itself. The trailer had a maximum allowed total weight of 5500kg of which 2500kgs was its own empty weight. The trailer axle was designed and allowed to carry upto 4000kgs. The braking system was also designed to bring the whole combination in fully loaded configuration to a safe stop in a stopping distance that would impress a racecar (with general road conditions being good, on slick ice there is very little that helps you come to a stop other than a solid barrier to crash against) The combination worked well with the trailer hooked up on the '5th' wheel above the rear axle of the tractor. the trailer transfered up to 1500kgs of wheight onto the tractor, making for a pretty stable configuration (errors in loading the trailer could void that stability, but that's a bit of a sidenote to the point i am getting at. On a few occasions i had to drive the tractor without the trailer.... yeah, that was some interesting driving... going sideways through curves by merely looking at the throttle. On perfectly dry asphalt that is. My point, tractor-trailer combinations are designed to work as a combination. Trying to translate that to a suv with caravan. hmm not 1 to 1 anyway. Not saying that a stable combination between suv and caravan is not possible, it is, but the physics in play are applied somewhat different compared to semi tractor-trailer combinations. thx for the video 🙂

[@truckericksdashcam]

I shake my head whenever I see a 22 foot camper advertised as half ton towable

[@markaylott1780]

There needs to be an appropriate licence! It cost me over $5000 for the PRIVILEGE to drive a semi trailer here in Australia, I have far more responsibilities and safety regulations to abide by, and rightly so. Any other moron can work for 8 hours, spend an hour driving home, an hour getting his caravan ready and another 5 hours driving towing becoming a major threat on the roads with no regulations or "log book" whatsoever! How is that right? Or fair 🤔

[@MattBlack6]

The dumbest things I come across with caravanners. When they are waiting upwards of an hour for a tow truck they almost never uncouple the caravan from the tow vehicle in preparation. Probably only one in 10 of them are actually coupled correctly, with appropriate shackles and the breakaway switch in the correct location and the chains crossed over. So many people with a 50mm ball do not have a little snap lock or R clip locking down the tow coupling ( to be fair it is probably never going to come undone, but some engineer put that little lock out there and it only cost you a couple of dollars to use it).

[@iflyrc1410]

R clips rule, just watch out for your knuckles if you pull too quickly.😂😂😂

[@SoulTouchMusic93]

In UK you see every once in a while an old lorry (they're at times 7k, scrap money really ad they work but not make money anymore) with a regular hitch on it towing a caravan. Safest way there is plus you've got extra beds and if you want extra seats too to take the kids with you.

[@chrisblood7395]

John... quick question, prompted by the unassailable logic of this post. Here in "'Murrica," we have things called "5th wheel" trailers. BIG ones, up to 40 feet long. The towbar is a long gooseneck that runs up and over the truck bed to a hitch that's a smaller version of the one on a semi, and located in the middle of the pickup truck's bed. Which is most often a big diesel crewcab, one ton dualie, with a towing capacity around 10 tons. Do you have mobile effluent- carrying hovels like that "Down Under"?, And come to think of it; why don't you have really big pickup trucks like we do?

[@georgepppp533]

or buy an american "dually" and a fifth wheel caravan, set up like a semi. Now just have to remember that the fifth wheel will cut the corner when turning hard. That ditch looks soooo attractive. (even SWIFT drivers in the states forget this little gem on a regular basis.)

[@actual_nonsense]

Apparently, it is mandatory to shell out for a hotel and restaurant or try your luck in a cloth tent. Traveling is not for poor or middle-class people. No trailer in stralier

[@charlesisaac3447]

One other big difference is that your “semi” (we call them artics over here) have braked trailers whereas your mobile turd emporium is un-braked, which is why they are prone to trying to overtake their “host” vehicle when going down a steep hill.

[@Bashkir097]

Re: thought experiment reconfiguring a semi to mimic a bumper pull SUV - thanks John, now I'm going to have trouble sleeping tonight.

[@akdenyer]

You are absolutely hilarious. I am a professional engineer and a red seal motor technician. We do have articulated pickups here in Canada but mostly 3/4 and 1 ton pick ups. I have a great friend who is Australian he lives in Yass. He was hilarious just like you. We were building classic grand prix cars. I also made articulated vehicles in England out of FX4D London Taxis. Just cut the back off and you have a ready made division. Keep them coming, I love it, could listen to you for hours, my sort of humor.

[@AutoExpertJC]

I'm substantially funnier than the other Aussie you know. Apart from that, engineer to engineer, thank you.

[@akdenyer]

@@AutoExpertJC His name is Greg Snape. Thanks.

[@SteveMuir]

This could possibly your best video. I am biased against caravans ever since one punted the wife and I and our loverly Honda motorcycle into a ditch on a road with a large sing stating that it was not suitable for caravans.

[@homerhorisgumboot5503]

And a hearty HELLO to those wonderful M/M's.

[@Fred-mv8fx]

Weight distributing hitches allow bumper-pull vehicles to safely tow heavy loads. A vehicle that weighs 5k lbs with a tow rating of 10k lbs can safely pull that weight with a weight distributing hitch, trailer brakes, a trailer brake controller, and properly rated tires.

[@rustykilt]

I am a little slow, but do I detect a slight bias against Caravan towing adventurers in your most informative video?. I am sure many people enjoy benefits of the travelling Thunder Box. .

[@rowiedee]

It’s not bias.

[@rustykilt]

@@rowiedee All opinions are welcome

[@FlakeyPM]

@@rustykilt You must not have been watching this channel before. John has shown his bias many times. I have to say I have learned all about pitch and yaw on large trailers from John and while I'm not a regular tower of Caravans or large trailers, I now have respect for his wisdom about safe towing weights. Thanks John @AutoExpert

[@rustykilt]

@@FlakeyPM I subscribe to his channel, but my attempt at humour obviously failed in your view. I must add that Towing Caravans, or Boats, requires skill and understanding of the laws of Dynamics. If you and many Australians enjoy towing a mobile home, I can see nothing to criticise.

[@rossatkinson3160]

I too say each to their own, I choose the towable home option, but in my defence, even at 4.3t I am still only at 60% of my vehicles designed towing capacity on a ball or pintle hook. So about equivalent for any landcruiser, patrol or dual cab ute. If they all stuck to 2t limits, then we would all be a lot happier and they just might not be such rolling roadblocks. Yes, JC has a certain disdain for rolling homes, but he also has a distinct ability to convey the message of dangers related to excessive towing ratios. Whether the beard stroking gentry at Dingo Piss Creek ever pay any attention, I have my doubts. I have encountered these types at the camp fire and they all have the same incapacity, in that they cannot see past the marketing hyperbole and BS sprouted from Toyota, Nissan, Jayco & every other brand out there.

[@TheWombat2012]

Always wondered why vans don’t have more or less a wheel at each corner, with steering at the front linked to the drawbar. I mean it would do away with ball weight, and I’ve seen portable site office units being towed exactly with this setup with perfectly good stability. There’s obviously a reason why caravans aren’t designed like this but I’m buggered if I can work it out. Thanks for the informative videos! 👍

[@JohnSmith-yv6eq]

Simples when you think of NO downforce on the rear of the ute/wagon/car. And we all know how grippy utes and 4wds with tray backs are on wet roundabouts.... So you have 3.5 tonnes pushing and shoving the arse end of the tow vehicle around.....

[@gavinhughes603]

Because that would mean having 2 articulation points making it very hard to reverse for the average driver.

[@gerardwood4059]

It has been UK law now for some years that the trailer/caravan must be less than the weight of the vehicle (unladen) towing it. In a discussion between which way the combination of vehicle and trailer are going to go (especially in the wind), the heavier part always wins. This is due to a force at the tyres called traction. It has been noticed that the part at the front of the combination vehicle/trailer has the traction to do the steering. it just works better that way.😂

[@DTGTDetectingTheGoldenTriangle]

Was i correct about the truck lpg tanks on fire not a ev in your recently deleted video?

[@AutoExpertJC]

Yes - a guy sent it to me claiming it was a couple of EVs in a crash. I've verified your version and taken it down.

[@DTGTDetectingTheGoldenTriangle]

@@AutoExpertJC Thank you John. Just one of the reasons I'll always watch your content 👍

[@robg6485]

Dear caravaner, if your sh!tbox 4x4 had the power, brakes, suspension and wheels & tyres that a prime mover has, then you too could tow what a prime mover does. But it hasn't so get over it and use some uncommon sense when deciding what vehicle and mardi gras float to tow. And while you're at it KEEP EFFING LEFT UNLESS OVERTAKING FFS! YESSSSSSSSS!

[@shanedaft666]

The closest thing you can get to being a truck is having a 5th wheel caravan as there rear Axel's are at the end of the van not in the middle and there hitch is in your tray

[@JohnSmith-yv6eq]

Why not look at a small truck then... 4wd, 4 door cab, turntable above the rear dual wheeled axle... built to take the weight, diesel engine, auto box.... and when you get to the campsite you can disconnect this truck and still have a capable vehicle for transport.

[@lukeclemo3659]

Kedron Caravans now has a triple axel, 26 foot behemoth on sale, coming to a highway near you. Imagine the size envy when that leviathan pulls up to DPC. Saw one on the road the other day and snapped a quick pic. Unbelievably huge and appeared to be getting towed by an overweight Chevy Silverado, but maybe it was within that vehicles limits. The Kedron van site advertises all sorts of tricks and gimmicks to claim the weight is safe. Good luck with that. I’d estimate the car (heavily customised) and van package was north of $300,000 on the road. Insane.

[@alanhilder1883]

Just think on the savings of taking a full people mover and staying in motels every night half the year, as opposed to buying and fueling that up for 3 or 4 weekends.

[@rossatkinson3160]

I know of a Chev Silverado that is for sale, 2 years old, for $300k alone. I'll stick to my 2011 model, with the return to NB2 rego, it can be 5,670kgs GVM and GCM remains at 11,000t (approx), can easily tow 4.5t any day of the week. But does depend on the GVM of the truck, NB1 is only 4,495kgs for car licence, and a late model only has 950kgs payload from tare. Older models like mine, and additional payload of 300kgs, as much lighter. But add the ubiquitous big canopy, winch, batts, fridge, etc etc etc, and soo even these rigs can become overweight.

[@seany888svd]

Barry's been farting into his seat as an office worker for 30 years, and then all the sudden because he's retired, he thinks he can drive with a portable house on the back of his new car. The roads will be far safer when these nuisances have all gone, or gone into homes.

[@TC-yx2ss]

The same Barry decides it's time to climb a ladder for the first time in his life to clean the gutters and ends up in emergency.

[@Loveitdownunder]

So when you get old you become a nuisense to society.. Keep going son, you will be there eventually. Maybe when that was comes they will have mandated euthanasia over 70.

[@josephstalone6911]

Literally saw an early 2000s Rav 4 towing a 90s Shitbox van that flipped over on its roof and hit a tree a few hours ago. Then this video pops up

[@philgray3443]

Damn it John. You summarised my arguments in 8 minutes.

[@AutoExpertJC]

Damn it...

[@mickdalrymple6425]

It's like saying, if scuba divers can breathe underwater, therefore, astronauts only need scuba gear...lol

[@xntumrfo9ivrnwf]

Thanks for that short interlude, much appreciated

[@kymcha]

I think the best way to visualise it is: 1. Go to a playground with your caravan in tow 2. Identify the seesaw 3. Replace the seesaw supports with a couple of wheels 4. Stick a bucket of sand on one end of the seesaw (weighs much less than the seesaw itself) 5. Run the modified seesaw with bucket at the front in an S pattern (preferably bumpy) and don't upset the bucket 6. Now wander back to your car and take a look at what you are towing - ring a bell?

[@AtomicExtremophile]

"beard-stroking wombat" "room temperature IQ" This channel is a comedy masterclass lol

[@jackwood8307]

Here in the US you see a lot of heavy duty duallies with gooseneck towing. Blows my mind what they must have spent on the truck and modifications to it plus the trailer!😮.

[@grantleyhughes]

Maybe they should buy a Canter and tow in fifth wheel configuration. Nice set of wheels at the rear end. Maybe it's time for conventional caravans to go the way of the dinosaurs and get a safety update. Plus we could introduce licences for towing where you have to prove you can handle one, and that you know how to calculate loads. Maybe start off with a 14' job like the progression with bikes and heavy vehicles. Imagine how much safer that would be than the current trend of retiring, trading in the Mazda3 for a Landcruiser, buying the biggest luxury dunny you can buy and hitting the roads. Roads where normal people (non caravanning/ rv) people have to share.

[@johnsimun6533]

4:00 they do. Look at the heavy duty pickup trucks, that are modified with a pickup bed.

[@davidmckay4273]

In the UK the general advice is that the caravan/trailer should weigh no more than 85% of the pulling vehicles weight.

[@crazy88s]

Thank god the ming molls made a cameo. That was worth a like all on its own.

[@benchapman5247]

It would be super easy and quick to test who needs a towing licence, just go to any caravan park, municipal tip or boat ramp and anyone who can't reverse their trailer in first go on the mirrors alone loses towing privileges. The roads would become safer overnight.

[@brhino]

I don't think being overly derogatory helps your argument. Of course if you have to explain the diff with a semi-trailer then it may be fair enough. I tow a 1100kg van with a Ford Falcon. The pluses of a Van outweigh the negatives of hauling one. Towing a Van is not enjoyable but necessary. If you want to stay in dubious quality expensive accommodation, that's your choice. I enjoy pulling up at a scenic relaxing location with my basic needs met. I tow safely which entails driving no faster than 90-95 kph usually. I don't accelerate at passing lanes and leave substantial safety zone to the front. You're a smart dude John. Having the disposition of a "Ranger Danger" operator is not endearing nor necessary.

[@byroboy]

Or in simple words, a semi doesn't break the rule of make the towing vehicle heavier because it takes half the weight of the trailers load.

[@oldbloke100]

exactly, 42500kg overall weight. 22500kg on the prime mover, 20000kg on the trailer.

[@nwobob]

No comments on 5th wheel travel trailers. I expect the math puts them in between semi's and travel caravans. Perhaps closer to semi's. The standard 3500 series dually in North America has a payload capacity of nearly 8,000 lbs. Here in NA the vast majority of travel trailers are behind full size pickup trucks.

[@petekay67]

Hmmmm, I recently went from towing around a tear drop caravan to a bigger caravan as the lovely wife didn't want to exit the teardrop at night for the toilet. My challenge now is telling the wife nope, towing the bigger van is not what I call fun😐. Seems like i found John's channel just a little too late

[@alanhilder1883]

Approx. half the trailer weight plus the tractor weight on the tractor's axles/wheels. Therefore the "trailer weight" is less than the "tractor's weight". The tail, that is the bit that is behind the trailer's wheels is almost nothing so the tail has trouble wagging the "dog". Just because the 4x4 was meant to be built to drive over ploughed fields, the suspension for doing so is compromised so the thing can have a chance to stay on the highway, just watch how well they handle speed bumps ( my WRX goes over them easier ) BUT they call them a SUV, that "S" stands for sport and a sports car is sort of a race car... If they modify that suspension to take that extra trailer load, the seats will have to have the suspension built in ( just like farm tractors do )

[@bloothedog4443]

I'm pretty sure a substantial number of people driving have no idea how to even separarate different systems within the car. For example some believe things such as low coolant will effect the brakes, or worn pads will indicate a transmission failure, etc.

[@canadagood]

Is there anyone on the Interwebs who gets as much delight as much as John Cadogan does in insulting his loyal viewers?

[@starwombat]

Yes, I think his credibility would be enhanced if he was not so condescending to the people who are just asking a simple question. If they knew the answer, they would not ask. I always said that there is no such thing as a dumb question but dumb mistakes are real. Perhaps John has an inferiority complex making him such a tosser to those people asking what he believes to be dumb questions.

[@deserthucker]

Prime mover has 2 steer axles. 1st front axle steered by the steering wheels. 2nd the bogie drives steer the trailer with just over 1/3 of the weight over the drives. Giving it stability in corners and bends. No tail wag.

[@IanSlothieRolfe]

I will confess to having some caravanning adventures in my past, but they were all done with a 12 foot dual berth caravan that was less than half the weight of the car I was towing with. But even in this configuration, the influence of the caravan on the car could be clearly felt, and even on open roads I kept the speed down to 50MPH or less if there was even the suspicion of a crosswind. However when the poverty of youth was somewhat offset by my growing career, I discovered how much better Hotels and rental cottages are. Not only are they better spec'd out for facilities but you don''t have to move then anywhere so the whole crosswind thing becomes a non-issue, as well as complex calculations on load capacity and nose weight etc. The sheer joy of driving through the countryside enjoying the views and stopping whenever refreshment is required, and at the end of the day just pulling up and jumping into a fresh bed without all that faffing about with leveling, jacking and re-configuring the space so you have a bed is something that caravans will never be able to deliver.

[@BubblesTheCat1]

Yep with all the nice bed bugs and little critters with you🤣😁👍🏻

[@jeffwhite9028]

I am old. Was tuning the family cars at 15. Now I am amazed at how shallow people are technically. He's not being too harsh. Later generations often have great difficulty with rational thought. That said, I miss the original WWII Jeeps that towed howitzers all over Europe, North Africa and many Pacific Islands using less than 70 hp, ...and overbuilt axles with proper gearing ...at no more than 25 mph.

[@DPG-Guitar]

To paraphrase Bill Bryson, "Why would you want to take a building on holidays with you?"

[@matthewgodwin3050]

The safest, most cost effective, and enjoyable way of going on holiday, in my experience, is to stay in a hotel.

[@daintree2455]

I was concentrating there so I wouldn't miss any beneficial information about towing my caravan with my burnt orange Tesla when at about 2.5 minutes in I got distracted.

[@davetaylor4741]

The biggest problem with caravan towers is generally lack of training. You may only have ever driven a small car. But can go out and buy a huge 4WD. Stick a 30 ft caravan on it. And set off around Australia. Effectively driving something the size of a semi. But inherently unstable. Often being totally unable to back the thing. It is little wonder the accident statistics reflect this. With towing truck licences you are restricted. A HR can tow something like 8 tons. Then HC. Followed by MC. There is a period of experience between each class. Or that is supposed to be the case. Doesn't always happen. Before said caravan hauler takes to the road shouldn't some controlling body be conducting testing to see that persons driving capability. There are some good capable caravaners out there. Some Road train drivers have holiday caravans. They should be pretty good. And many more. But a competency test needs to be introduced to weed out the ones most likely to cause chaos on our roads.

[@davidvanderklauw]

If it can't be measured easily with a machine and makes money, then our lazy controlling elites are not interested. Keep voting Liberal or Labor and it might change (or not).

[@PeterMacGrergor]

Hello John, I watch your videos with interest. You really know your stuff. I have a Porsche Cayenne GTS 2023 model. I have ordered a Makaira Gen 3 750 Plate boat. It's dry weight is 2.9 tons but with a full load of fuel and a few rods and bits and pieces on board it will probably hit 3.5 tons. The aluminium trailer has electric brakes on both axels and has a credo wireless controller. The dealer who sold me the Porsche is of the view that it should tow the trailer no problem. My concern is that the whole combo will be close to 6 ton when I have four people in the vehicle and replacement cost is around $650k NZ. I'd like your opinion please. Peter.

[@306champion]

While I agree with a lot of what you said here, I do think you were pretty hard on him as he doesn't know any better. But another big problem is the long, very long shank towbars to extend the towing point further back giving the trailor / caravan at least twice the purchase over the towing vehicle instead of the other way around. On top of that the axles these days seem to be dead centre instead of further back (you did cover this). I remember back in the seventies, 32 foot vans behind Holdens but of course they did know how to drive and tow back then and it was done at about 50 MPH (80 KPH).

[@Turboactive]

Holy crap, John, you frickin crack me up so hard. I love the way you deliver your monologue. Fuckin lol

[@aslkdfjhg]

In Australia we are extremely lucky to have such generous laws whereby we can tow anything anywhere. In Europe it is much more restrictive and controlled.

[@nigelvanderpool963]

Good night i would like to know if the ISUZU 2024 PANEL is wort spending money on. If not can you recomend a panel van. Thank you i look forward to your responce

[@brucetisdell9404]

I spent some years as a cop in the north of WA and saw many crashes where caravans were totalled. Usually thhe owners possessions would be spread for hundred of metres down highway one. " Bad way to end your holiday '"I'd say. "Whattdoya mean, "they'd reply. Duhhhhhh.

[@regsparkes6507]

OMG John, now that you have reminded me of all those RV trailer ( Caravanners ) towing yahoos on the highway, driving alongside, in front of and behind me, I wonder if I should go out there today and drive that 80 plus kilometres to an appointment.

[@dalane5196]

The amazing thing is I think, if you buy a half decent van say $100k, then you need a 200/ 300 now, series to tow it, another $100+k. Lets say an extra $150k for round figures than if you just drove a car, and then you add in the extra $100 dollars a day in fuel to drive and tow these behemoths around Australia, and if a motel room is say $200 a night, you can stay in a motel room for 1500 nights or just over four years. Four years of staying in a motel room where you dont have to clean or change the bed, and no towing a small house behind you and that is without the $60 a night van park fees. When I ask caravaners they always say but you can’t camp where you want to with a motel, we camp for free in wayside stops and on river banks etc. Really is that it, where can you camp for free these days anyway, and no wonder land holders hate you and your vans, truck drivers I know do taking up all the space in truck parking bays. Truck driver drives late into the night is just about out of hours on his log book, arrives at his chosen truck parking bay and finds it chock a block full of grey nomads and their vans, and he certainly can never park anywhere near a public toilet as it is surrounded by Grey Nomads with tricky prostates. Anyway they wont be able to tow behind electric cars soon will they once Albo and Bowen force us to buy them will they, there will be cheap vans around then.

[@willtricks9432]

Different here in the UK Tow wagon Mitzy Delica 2.8 turbo £1700.00 all in and a 20ft caravan £1500.00 latest cross country 150 Miles, £50.00 for diesel and took three hours in the rain and we didn't have to sleep in a bedbug infested dosshouse still warm from the last dead prozzy.

[@dalane5196]

@@willtricks9432 A bit different here, no dead prozzies in the motels, pretty clean mostly, and no bed bugs. But you can’t go off into the Australian outback in a second hand $3,400.00 anything pretty much, it’s a F ing long walk to the next mechanic if you break down. And the distances are a bit different to the UK, 150 miles I did that yesterday before breakfast basically, I drove from Emerald QLD to Lightning Ridge NSW which is roughly 800kms. Towing well not a caravan but a good sized camper trailer, the extra fuel consumption dragging the thing would have easily paid for motel accomodation for the night.

[@willtricks9432]

@@dalane5196 Been over from England through Wales over the sea to Ireland and all the way round the coast which is WET out back, in a £250.00 1976 7.5 ton bread truck, 2000 miles all the way and took enough spanners and a geny with a grinder and had a great month Took my two small kids who loved it. Over three mountain ranges and onto a few beaches and a good few pubs.

[@pwlw185]

As a smaller type motorhomer am feeling a bit left out here. We do carry an amount of effluent at times, probably some other issues. But if our vehicle is over GVM 4500kgs we have to upgrade our licence.

[@monster-op7sf]

Hey John what do you think about goose neck caravans been towed by a ram or f truck like in the us of a?

[@Adventurepil0t]

It's funny how a lot of the mid size ute mob deride the American sized utes as completely unnecessary, all whilst overloading their own light duty "trucks".

[@Thomamps]

Dear John (the relationship is over) I world like to ask the facts on the dual cab with a 5th wheel caravan setup (there is one in my suburb) as these appear to be half pig trailer and half semi trailer.

[@Dags470]

No. Effectively a semi but with the axles just rear of centre instead of far towards the back, to get the weight distribution correct. But yes. Essentially semis.

[@colinfrench3776]

In Straya it's illegal to tow a trailer from the quick hitch or tow pin on a prime mover. How is it legal to do it with a caravan hitched to the same place on a passenger car?