A-Frame Towing Europe

Paul1951 replied on 09/07/2017 18:12

Posted on 09/07/2017 18:12

A-Frame towing in Europe
I know this subject has been covered many times on various forums and I have read most of them.
I have been towing a Citroen C1 behind my Swift Bolero for 4 years now without any issues, but the number of people reporting problems does concern me. The system I use is fully electronic applying the cars brakes in proportion to the motorhome braking, there is a breakaway safety device fitted, all car lighting operate as any caravan or trailer would and it can be reversed without intervention. I believe this system meets all the legal requirements for a trailer hear in the UK.

I also believe that In Europe and Spain especially, the A-Frame assembly is classed as a recovery tool as in a Tow-Dolly or Rigid Tow which can only be used for short distances by licensed agents. These devices have no braking or lighting connection to the towed vehicle.

Now my point is more to do with the Safety and Convenience issue.
I don't think there is any doubt that towing with an A-Frame that meats all legal requirements is more Stable, Safer and more Convenient than using car transport trailer. With the growing number of Club members realising these benefits should the Motorhome and Caravan Club legal team be taking this matter up.
Comments Please.

Paul1951 replied on 13/07/2017 20:17

Posted on 13/07/2017 20:17

What is ambiguous about this statement from the dept of Transport

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-frames-and.../a-frames-and-dollies

When an A-frame is attached to a vehicle (eg a motor car) and towed by a motor vehicle (eg motorhome) we believe the A-frame and car become a single unit and as such are classified in legislation as a trailer. As a consequence the car and A-frame are required to meet the technical requirements for trailers when used on the road in Great Britain.

All the arguments both in the UK and Europe revolve around one subject is the motor vehicle and A-Frame Assembly a Motor Car or a Trailer, the above clearly identifies the situation in the UK notice the highlighted statement classified in legislation check out the gov.uk website.

This is like is an amphibian vehicle a motor car or a motor boat.

Another interesting definitions issue could be is a Trailer/Caravan with a motor mover a motorised vehicle.

EmilysDad replied on 13/07/2017 22:11

Posted on 13/07/2017 19:40 by Tammygirl

I know there are lots out there that do tow a Smart car, seen quite a few myself but as I said an A frame maker told us he won't make them for Smarts as he doesn't think they are stable.

Posted on 13/07/2017 22:11

When being driven, they're more stable than you'd expect.

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