Essential Facts about Towing a Car with an Electric System
For a newcomer to the world of caravanning, navigating the intricacies of the electric towing cable can be a daunting task. One such challenge was faced by an author who encountered a problem with the tourer's 13-pin connector.
Before connecting the electric towing cable, it's essential to park both the car and caravan on level ground with the brakes on and the ignition off. This is a fundamental safety measure to ensure a secure connection.
The problem the author experienced was with the misalignment of the 13-pin caravan connector's internal plastic lug, which wouldn't line up with its output slot. This misalignment caused a connection problem, preventing the flow of power to the caravan's essential lighting and systems.
Fortunately, a solution to this issue is readily available. An alignment tool, which can be purchased from local dealerships or online, provides a precise adjustment or repositioning of the internal plastic lug on the 13-pin caravan connector. This tool allows the alignment lug to be turned independently of the external casing with its screw-thread, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
It's important to note that this misalignment problem only affects 13-pin connectors. Older caravans might use two 7-pin plugs (12N + 12S), each serving a separate purpose - 12N for the lights, and 12S for the fridge and the battery. The single 7-pin connector (12N) is an older, more basic design for trailers and only powers the lights.
In 2008, the 13-pin plug was introduced for caravans, handling all necessary power connections (lights, battery charging, and fridge) through a single, twist-to-lock connection. This modern design supports additional features such as the fridge power and battery charging, making it a more versatile and efficient solution.
Regularly inspect the cable for signs of wear, crushed sections, or exposed wires, and replace it if necessary. It's also a legal requirement for van lights to work correctly, and adaptors may be necessary for older cars (12N/12S) or newer caravans (13-pin) to ensure proper connections.
Always check all lights are working before setting off, and regularly clean and maintain the plug and socket to prevent moisture build-up and ensure proper connections. If there's a mismatch between the car and caravan connectors, simple adaptors are widely available for approximately £10 to bridge the gap.
Maintaining the electric towing cable is crucial for ensuring safety on the road and functionality on site. By following these guidelines and using the appropriate tools, newcomers to caravanning can overcome challenges and enjoy their journeys with peace of mind.
