Noseweight (again)

DippingIn replied on 12/10/2019 12:59

Posted on 12/10/2019 12:59

Hello All, absolute newbie with a question regarding nose weight.

I am very happy that my 'maximum' nose-weight is 100kg, this is based on car limitations, towbar max towing capacity, and the 5-7% ratio.  So I am happy with how the weight figure is achieved.

My question is - if it is the 'maximum' nose-weight, does this also mean 'optimum' nose-weight. 

We pack light and to be honest I am struggling to achieve 100kg at the nose with heavy internal items (empty waste tubs, awning, picnic chairs) over the axle where possible.  

Does anyone find that reducing the measured nose-weight below 'maximum' enhances stability and road handling therefore achieving 'optimum' nose-weight. I am aware that every combination of car/caravan will behave slightly differently, but I have a 2.0 Kuga AWD with Alddis Avante. I measure with the Milenco calibrated nose gauge.

I'm a little afraid to play with weights as I'm aware the consequences could be grave, however whenever I read 'do not exceed xxx kg' that's pretty much a warning to keep below that limit where possible.

Many thanks for any experiences or advice you may wish to share.

JP

EmilysDad replied on 19/10/2020 19:06

Posted on 19/10/2020 18:55 by hitchglitch

No need to take any measuring equipment with you. Once you have loaded the van and checked the nose weight at home there is no need to keep rechecking. In fact, when you get used to your van you can tell if the nose weight is about right by manually lifting. If you canโ€™t raise the hitch manually itโ€™s too heavy!

Posted on 19/10/2020 19:06

I've given up lifting my own body weight! ๐Ÿ™„

 

ps .... I'm around 100kg ๐Ÿ˜‰

near Malvern Hills Club Campsite Member photo by Andrew Cole

Book a late escape

There's still availability at many popular UK Club campsites - find your perfect pitch today for a last minute trip!

Book now
Woman sitting in camping chair by Wastwater in the Lake District with her two dogs and picnic blanket

Follow us on Facebook

Follow the Caravan and Motorhome Club via our official Facebook page for latest news, holiday ideas, events, activities and special offers.

Photo of Wast Water, Lake District by Sue Peace
Visit Facebook