Driving theory random terms- Vehicle loading

What is the Noseweight

The downward vertical force that a caravan or trailer hitch exerts onto a vehicle's towball

What is a towball?

The metal ball thing that is used to connect a car and a trailer/ caravan

What is a Jockey wheel?

A retractable, height- adjustable wheel at the front of a trailer or a caravan. It supports the weight when unhitched from the car.

What is a Jockey wheel used for?

1. Holds up the trailer when parked

2. Raises or lowers hitch to match with the cars towball

3. Allows you to roll/ steer the trailer by hand

What is power steering?

A car system that helps you turn the steering wheel with less physical effort.

What is a stabiliser?

A mechanical device fitted to a towbar that connects a car and a caravan. It improves vehicle handling by reducing sideways movement (snaking).

What restrictions apply if you're towing a trailer on a 3-lane motorway?

You must not use the right-hand lane

How should you load your trailer based on the weight of the objects?

Put heavy items over the axles

What is a trailer braking system?

A machine that slows the trailer when the towing vehicle brakes. Prevents it from overpowering the towing vehicle.

What safety device muct be fitted to a trailer braking system and why?

A breakaway cable. In case the trailer becomes detached, the cable triggers the trailer’s brakes and then snaps, allowing the towing vehicle to get out of the way.

You've just passed your driving test. What's the maximum authorised mass (MAM) of any trailer that you can tow?

3500 kg

When would you increase the pressure in your tyres so that it's above the normal value?

When carrying a heavy load

What would be affected if you carry a very heavy load on your vehicle?

The vehicles handling (how easy it is to steer etc)

What's the minimum depth of tread on the tyres of a trailer?

1.6 mm