MDC XL13E MKII Owner's manual

Type
Owner's manual

This manual is also suitable for

www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 1
XL13E MkII I XL15E MkII I XL15-4E MKII
OFFROAD HYBRID CARAVANS
OWNER’S MANUAL
EDITION: 2023 - Version 3
*2023 Models Shown
Copyright ©
AusRV Group Pty Ltd 2020 All Rights Reserved
Phone: 1300 494494
www.marketdirect.com.au
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 2
Copyright © AUSRV Pty Ltd 2020 All Rights Reserved
All files and information contained in this Owner’s Manual are copyright by AusRV Pty Ltd, and may not be duplicated,
copied, modified, or adapted, in any way without our written permission. Our Owner’s Manual may contain our service
marks or trademarks as well as those of our affiliates or other companies, in the form of words, graphics, and logos.
Your use of our Owner’s Manual does not constitute any right or license for you to use our service marks or trademarks,
without the prior written permission of AusRV Pty Ltd.
Our Content, as found within our Owner’s Manual, is protected under Australian and foreign copyrights. The copying,
redistribution, use or publication by you of any such Content, is strictly prohibited. Your use of our Owner’s Manual does
not grant you any ownership rights to our Content.
DISCLAIMER: This manual is provided in good faith and AusRV PTY LTD may amend or update this owner
manual from time to time.
Use of Product
The intent and purpose of this manual is to assist owners in the correct use and operation of the product and outline the
servicing schedule to be followed, ensuring the correct maintenance of the product.
Servicing
Servicing information contained in this owner manual is provided for those who have appropriate technical skills and
relevant to the subject matter the publication deals with in regard to maintenance and repairs. The servicing content of
this manual assumes a satisfactory technical knowledge and mechanical skills and experience. It is not suitable for
people who are not trained or qualified in the subject matter it deals with. If you do not have the appropriate skills and
experience, or if you do not have access to appropriate tools and equipment, you may injure yourself or others around
you and/or you may cause damage to the camper or caravan you are working on, including making it unsafe. Users of
this owner manual must:
Read all content thoroughly. It is especially important to have a good understanding of all the contents
shown in the INTRODUCTION and SAFETY Sections of this publication.
Use only the correct tools and equipment for all repairs and servicing.
If part replacement is necessary, replace the part with the same part number or equivalent part. DO
NOT replace it with a part of inferior quality.
Observe all 'Cautions' and 'Notices' to reduce the risk of personal injury during service or repair, or
improper service or repair that may damage the camper/caravan or render it unsafe.
Understand that the 'Cautions' and 'Notices' in this publication are not exhaustive because it is
impossible to warn of all possible hazardous consequences that might result from failure to follow the
instructions in this publication. You must carry out your own risk assessments as you work.
AusRV PTY LTD does not accept any and all liability which may arise because a user of this publication fails to follow
directions in the publication or safe work methods associated with use and maintenance of the product.
Those without the required skills, knowledge, tools, and experience to work on and maintain this product should
seek the services of a suitably qualified person or business.
This publication is based on the latest product information at the time of release. However, specifications and
procedures are subject to change without notice.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 3
Contents
Safety Definitions ............................................................. 6
Button Battery Warning! ............................................. 6
Introduction........................................................................ 7
AUSRV Contact Details and Stores ............................... 7
Specifications ..................................................................... 9
Safety Information .......................................................... 11
Gas Systems ............................................................. 11
Chassis ....................................................................... 11
Weight Definitions.......................................................... 12
Terminology ..................................................................... 13
Ball Weight ............................................................... 13
GCM ........................................................................... 13
Camber ...................................................................... 13
Toe In/out ................................................................ 13
Tow vehicle and Trailer Compatibility................ 13
Achieving a Safe Towing Combination ....................... 14
Trailer Tyre Pressures ............................................ 14
Tow Vehicle Tyre Pressures ................................. 14
Ball (Coupling) Weight ........................................... 15
Load Placement ....................................................... 15
Trailer Level .............................................................. 15
Hitch Movement ..................................................... 16
Vehicle Squat ........................................................... 16
Maximum Weight Limits ............................................ 17
ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) .............................. 17
Vehicle GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) ..................... 17
Axle Load .................................................................. 17
GCM (Gross Combination Mass) .......................... 18
Towing Combination Summary ............................ 18
Towing Mirrors ............................................................ 19
Jacking Your Caravan or Camper ............................. 20
Electrical Safety ........................................................... 21
Vehicle Electrical Requirements................................... 21
Brake Controller ...................................................... 21
Correct Vehicle Wiring .......................................... 21
Trailer Lights................................................................. 22
Charging While Driving .......................................... 22
Smart Alternator ...................................................... 22
Trail-AssureElectronic Stability Control System ... 23
Gas & Appliance Safety ................................................. 26
Gas Certification ......................................................... 26
General Safety ............................................................. 26
Gas Cylinder Safety .................................................... 26
Gas Appliance Safety ..................................................... 27
Removing Truma Flue Cover .................................... 27
Ventilation and Flues .............................................. 27
Isolating Appliances ................................................ 27
Removing Door Vent Cover .................................. 27
Diesel Heater Safety ...................................................... 28
Using the Caravan ........................................................... 29
Weights and Payload Capacities .............................. 29
How to Load Your Caravan ....................................... 29
Load Distribution Guide......................................... 29
Ball Weight ................................................................... 30
Effects of Weight Distribution ................................. 30
Tyre Pressures ............................................................. 30
Towing The Caravan ...................................................... 31
Towing with Trucks .................................................... 31
Connecting the Hitch .............................................. 32
Coupling ........................................................................ 33
Uncoupling ................................................................... 35
Safety Chains and Shackles ...................................... 36
Rated Shackles ......................................................... 36
Connecting the Safety Chains ............................... 36
Connecting the Electrics ........................................ 36
Connecting the Breakaway .................................... 36
Wireless Rear View Camera ......................................... 37
Troubleshooting ..... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Pre-Trip Inspection ..................................................... 37
Tyres ........................................................................... 39
Wheel Nuts ............................................................... 39
Hitch and Chains ...................................................... 39
Fire Extinguisher ...................................................... 39
Brakes & Breakaway System ................................. 39
Lights .......................................................................... 39
Setting Up the Caravan ................................................. 40
Electric Roof ................................................................ 40
Finding a Suitable Spot .............................................. 40
Using Wheel Chocks and Ramps ............................. 40
Campsite Dimensions ................................................ 41
Jockey Wheel .............................................................. 42
Stabiliser Legs .............................................................. 42
Electric Awning ........................................................... 43
Inclement Weather ..................................................... 43
Annex Pole Diagrams ................................................. 44
Slide Out Kitchen ........................................................ 45
Internal Cooktop XL15-4 ....................................... 46
Fire .............................................................................. 46
Charging the Caravan ................................................ 47
Preparing for Bad Weather ...................................... 47
Packing Down Your Caravan .................................... 47
Electric Control Panels .............................................. 48
XL13E MkII ............................................................... 48
XL15-4E MkII & XL15E MkII ................................. 48
Mains Power ................................................................ 49
RCD Safety Switch ..................................................... 49
Charging from your Vehicle ...................................... 50
Lithium Battery System ............................................. 50
Battery Care ................................................................. 51
Lithium (LiFePO4) Battery Reset ............................. 51
Configuring The BM500-BT App ............................ 52
Maximising Battery Use ......................................... 53
Fridge Maximising ...................................................... 53
Electrical Accessories ................................................. 53
Lighting ......................................................................... 53
Heating ......................................................................... 53
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 4
Solar Panels .................................................................. 53
Generators .................................................................... 54
Packing Up the Caravan............................................. 54
Storage & Care ................................................................ 54
Security ............................................................................. 55
Care and Maintenance of the Caravan ....................... 56
Protection of Finishes ................................................ 56
Paint ........................................................................... 56
Acrylic Windows ..................................................... 56
Internal Finishes ...................................................... 56
Ensuite Finishes ....................................................... 56
Mirrors ....................................................................... 56
Galvanised Finishes ................................................ 56
High Tensile Bolt and Fittings .............................. 56
Stainless Steel .......................................................... 56
Fabrics ....................................................................... 56
Corrosion Protection .............................................. 56
Shade and screen care ............................................... 57
Roof Maintenance ....................................................... 57
Solar Panels .............................................................. 57
Sealants ..................................................................... 57
Canopy Lifting Mechanism.................................... 57
Roof Skirt Elastic Cord ........................................... 57
Roof Props .................................................................... 58
Caravan Body Maintenance ...................................... 59
Locks and Latches ................................................... 59
Rubber Seals ............................................................. 59
Sealants ..................................................................... 59
Mechanical Maintenance........................................... 59
Wheels and Tyres ................................................... 59
Brakes ........................................................................ 59
Bearings and Seals .................................................. 59
Suspension................................................................ 59
Hand Brake ................................................................... 60
Adjustment ............................................................... 60
Hitch .......................................................................... 61
Ball Bearing Slides ................................................... 61
Correct Use of Your Electric Brakes ........................... 61
Brake Adjustment ....................................................... 61
Brake Cleaning and Inspection ................................. 61
Magnets .................................................................... 62
Shoes and Linings .................................................... 62
Gas & Water Systems .................................................... 63
Truma Rapid Hot Water System .................................. 63
Operating Instructions ........................................... 63
General Safety ......................................................... 63
Filling the Truma UltraRapid with Water ........... 64
Pressure Relief Valve (P&T safety valve)............ 65
Draining the Water Heater ................................... 66
Switching On Gas Operation ................................ 66
Removing The Cowl Cover ................................... 66
Select Water Heater Mode ................................... 66
Switching Off Gas Operation ............................... 67
Red Indicator Lamp “Fault ................................... 67
Maintenance ................................................................ 67
Decalcification .......................................................... 67
Fuses .......................................................................... 67
Circuit Breaker ......................................................... 67
Water Heater Trouble Shooting .............................. 68
Gas Operation .......................................................... 68
Water Supply ............................................................ 68
Water Pumps ............................................................... 68
Selecting Fresh Water Tank ..................................... 69
Connecting the Gas .................................................... 70
Toilet Care and Maintenance ................................ 71
Chemicals: ................................................................. 71
Diesel Heater ................................................................... 72
MkII Diesel Heater ..................................................... 73
Operation .................................................................. 73
Heater Control Switch ............................................ 73
Power on ................................................................... 73
Temperature Control .............................................. 73
Ventilation mode ..................................................... 73
Shutdown .................................................................. 73
Trouble Shooting ..................................................... 73
TV Antenna ...................................................................... 74
Moisture and Mould Protection .................................. 75
Condensation .............................................................. 75
Protecting from Mould .............................................. 75
Protecting Your Investment ......................................... 75
Stone Stomper .......................................................... 75
Rock Tamer ............................................................... 75
Trouble Shooting ............................................................ 76
12 Volt Electrical Trouble Shooting ........................ 76
Charging from Mains Power Trouble Shoong .... 76
Solar Charging Trouble Shooting ............................. 78
Charging from Tow Vehicle Trouble Shooting ..... 78
Control Panel & Accessories .................................... 79
Resetting Breakers ..................................................... 82
High Load Breakers ................................................. 82
Medium Load Breakers........................................... 82
12V Main Circuit XL13E MkII .................................. 83
12 Volt Switchboard Circuit XL13E MkII............... 84
12 Volt Main Circuit XL15-4 & XL15E MkII.......... 85
12 Volt Switchboard Circuit XL15-4 & XL15E MkII
........................................................................................ 86
Secondary IDC25L DC to DC & Solar Panels ....... 87
Water Trouble Shooting ............................................ 88
Gas Trouble Shooting ................................................ 88
Brakes Trouble Shooting ........................................... 89
Spare Part Numbers ................................................... 90
Hub Assembly .......................................................... 91
Trailing Arm Bushes ................................................... 92
Driving Off Road ............................................................. 93
Recommended Recovery Products ............................. 94
Recovery points .......................................................... 94
Hardware ...................................................................... 94
Wheels and Tyres ........................................................... 96
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 5
Highway .................................................................... 96
Off Road .................................................................... 96
Suspension ....................................................................... 96
Shock Absorbers & Bushes ....................................... 96
Wheel Alignment ........................................................ 96
Maintenance Schedule ................................................... 97
Service Record ............................................................. 97
Hiring Your Camper/Caravan ..................................... 119
Warranty Statement ..................................................... 120
Supplier Details ............................................................. 123
Travel Record ................................................................. 125
Appendix ......................................................................... 127
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 6
Safety Definitions
- Immediate hazards which WILL result in severe personal injury or death if the warning is
ignored.
- Hazards or unsafe practices which COULD result in severe personal injury or death
if the warning is ignored
- Hazards or unsafe practices which could result in minor or moderate injury if the
warning is ignored
- Practices that could result in damage to the trailer or other property
INFORMATION- Helpful information and important points.
Button Battery Warning!
Some AUSRV models are fitted with remote wireless switches for lighting. These switches contain “Button
Batteries” that are harmful or fatal when swallowed. DO NOT allow children to play with these switches or leave
unattended in the vicinity of these switches. These switches will be marked with the warning label below.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 7
Introduction
Welcome to AusRV
Off road caravanning is a rewarding way to travel and see our great country. Owning an AUSRV caravan, camper
or hybrid caravan will afford you the opportunity to travel to remote places and stay in comfort. It is the intention
of AUSRV for you to have the best possible owner experience and enjoy the great outdoors.
AUSRV Contact Details and Stores
QUEENSLAND
MDC Brisbane
3/711 Beaudesert Rd
Rocklea QLD 4107
MDC Caboolture
2/4-6 Boeing Place
Caboolture QLD 4510
NEW SOUTH WALES
MDC Sydney
1/12 Avalli Rd
Prestons NSW 2170
MDC Newcastle
Unit 1, 2364 Pacific Hwy
Heatherbrae NSW 2324
VICTORIA
MDC Melbourne
3/124 Canterbury Rd
Kilsyth South VIC 3137
MDC Campbellfield
1551 Sydney RD
Campbellfield VIC 3061
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
MDC Perth
238 Great Western Hwy
Ascot WA 6106
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
MDC Adelaide
Units 2,3 & 4/32-50 Weaver St
Edwardstown SA 5042
NATIONAL TOLL FREE
1300 4X4 4X4
1300 494 494
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 8
My AUSRV Hybrid Caravan
DISCLAIMER: By receiving this handbook, you confirm there you have read and agree
to all the terms and conditions and understood the use and maintenance care of
AUSRV Pty Ltd.
NAME:
ADDRESS 1:
ADDRESS 2:
MODEL:
VIN:
BUILD DATE:
DRY WEIGHT:
GTW:
TIRE SIZE:
DEALER PH:
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 9
Specifications
Specification
XL13E
XL15E
ELECTRONIC
STABILITY CONTROL
Trail-AssureBG-5000 electronic stability control with asymmetric braking (off-road
ready)
WIRELESS REAR
VIEW CAMERA
2.4GHz digital wireless rear view camera + 5″ portable monitor
COUPLING LOCK
MDC LOK coupling lock
BATTERY
LiFePRO+12V 200Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate battery
AC (240V) CHARGER
Projecta IC500L 12V automatic 50A 5-stage lithium battery charger
DC (12V) CHARGER
Projecta IDC25L 25A 5-
stage Intelli-Charge 9-32V
lithium DC/ solar battery
charger
2 x Projecta IDC25L 25A 5-stage Intelli-Charge 9-32V
lithium DC/ solar battery charger
BATTERY MONITOR
Projecta BM500-BT battery monitor with Bluetooth connectivity
STYLE
13’ Hybrid Off-Road Caravan
15’ Hybrid Off-Road Caravan
BERTH
2
2
BEDS
1 x Custom pillow-top King
size innerspring mattress
size innerspring mattress, 2
x single high density foam
1 x Custom pillow-top King
size innerspring mattress
MATTRESS SIZE
2000mm L x 1750mm W x
250mm H
x 250mm H, Top bunk
2050mm L x 700mm W x
80mm H, Bottom bunk
2050mm L x 1000mm W x
1000mm (narrowest point)
2000mm L x 1750mm W x
250mm H
FINISH
Galvanised chassis + combination of FRP and aluminium composite panel
BODY
CONSTRUCTION
Combination of welded aluminium 50 x 25 RHS and 75 x 25 RHS and 25X25 square
aluminium alloy
TARE WEIGHT
Approx. 2150kg
Approx. 2400kg
TOWBALL WEIGHT
Approx. 175kg
Approx. 190kg
ATM RATING
3000kg
PAYLOAD
Approx. 850kg
600kg
SIZE OPEN WITH A/C
6500mm L x 5475mm W x
3112mm H
7310mm L x 5491mm W x 3085mm H
SIZE CLOSED WITH
A/C
5900mm L x 2265mm W x
2662mm H
6710mm L x 2281mm W x 2635mm H
ANNEX SIZE
4.6m x 2m
5.2m x 2m
ENSUITE TENT SIZE
1,2m x 0.8m
DRAWBAR
150mm x 50mm Q345 Galvanised Steel RHS
COUPLING
Cruisemaster DO35 hitch
JOCKEY WHEEL
10” swing-up and lockable
WHEELS & TYRES
16X7.5 6/139.7 aluminium alloy wheels fitted with 265/75 R16 Goodride radial mud
terrain + 2x spares
SUSPENSION
X-TRACK Independent coil spring suspension with 2x TOUGH TRAX Shock absorbers on
each side
BRAKES
12″ electromagnetic brakes with handbrake and drawbar mounted emergency breakaway
system
STABILISER LEGS
4 x heavy duty lockable and adjustable drop down
JACK & JACKING
POINTS
CASP 1500kg high-lift scissor jack & integrated jacking points
AWNING
3.4m 12V electric cassette
awning
4.35m 12V electric cassette
awning
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 10
ANNEX
Full annex, enclosed roof, walls, floor, and draft skirt
GAS CYLINDER
HOLDERS
2x 9kg gas cylinder holders with LCC27 pigtail connector
JERRY CAN STORAGE
2x 20L jerry can holders
WATER TANK(S)
1x 120L freshwater, 1 x 80L
freshwater & 1x 80L grey
water
80L grey water
1x 120L freshwater, 1 x
80L freshwater & 1x 80L
grey water
WATER DELIVERY
12V electric marine diaphragm pump
KITCHEN
CONSTRUCTION
(INTERNAL)
NA
Laminated benchtop with glass lid plumbed sink and gas
hob cooktop
KITCHEN
CONSTRUCTION
(EXTERNAL)
Slide out stainless Steel body with gas hob cooktop & washboard sink with plumbed hot &
cold water supply
STONE GUARD
Chequer plate stone guard & gas storage locker with forward-facing mud flap protection
FRIDGE
N/A
109L Dometic CoolMatic
Compressor Fridge
FRIDGE SLIDE
1000mm L x 550mm W x 490mm H (passenger side)
N/A
SHOWER & ENSUITE
Hot/cold external shower includes wall-mounted ensuite tent
SERVERY TABLE
Passthrough storage hatch with drop-down door
ENSUITE
Thetford C400 Cassette toilet + hot & cold plumbed shower
WINDOWS/ BLINDS
& SCREENS
Double acrylic glazed windows and double cassette blind with flyscreen and block-out, Zip
down ventilation with midge-proof screens
SKYLIGHT(S) AND
ROOF HATCHES
Skylight over the bed with 12V lighting and double cassette blind
AIR CONDITIONER
Truma Aventa comfort 2400W roof-mounted air conditioning system with integrated heat
pump
HOT WATER SYSTEM
14L Truma UltraRapid (gas-operated)
COOKER INTERNAL
NA
Dometic 2 burner hob with glass lid
COOKER EXTERNAL
Stainless steel 4-burner gas hob cooktop with cast iron pan support
DIESEL HEATER
2KW diesel air heater with variable control and 10L fuel tank
SOLAR
4 x 100W
3 x 150W and 2 x100W solar panels (650W total)
INVERTER
Projecta IM1000 12V 1000W modified sine wave inverter
LIGHTING INTERNAL
12V LED lighting throughout
with wireless switching
throughout with wireless
12V LED lighting
throughout with wireless
switching
LIGHTING EXTERNAL
12V LED lighting throughout, position markers, indicator & stop/taillights + awning and
offside wall lighting with blue light up entry door grab handle
POWER OUTLETS
INTERNAL
5 x 12v accessory sockets, 4 x
5v dual USB charging ports
(1A & 2A split), 1 x F-Type TV
outlet & 4 x 240V double pole
GPOs
5 x 5v dual USB charging
ports (1A & 2A split), 1 x F-
Type TV outlet & 4 x 240V
7 x 12v accessory sockets,
6 x 5v dual USB charging
ports (1A & 2A split), 1 x F-
Type TV outlet & 4 x 240V
double pole GPOs
POWER OUTLETS
EXTERNAL
1 x Anderson plugs 1 x 12V
accessory socket 1 x F-type
TV outlet 1 x 240V double
pole GPOs
accessory socket 1 x F-type
TV outlet 1 x 240V double
1 x Anderson plugs 2 x 12V
accessory socket 1 x F-type
TV outlet 1 x 240V double
pole GPOs
SOUND SYSTEM
Stereo head unit with internal & external speakers
TV
HD LED TV with 12V compatibility, USB, and full motion TV bracket
TV ANTENNA
Standard Milenco 900L Omnidirectional Antenna
12V FANS
2 x Caframo Sirocco ll 12V wall-mounted 3-speed fan
3 x Caframo Sirocco ll 12V
wall-mounted 3-speed fan
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 11
Safety Information
Before using this product, you should read this manual and those manuals supplied by component
manufacturers applicable to this product.
This manual is supplied as a reference to required maintenance of the product. Failure to use and maintain the
product in accordance with what is outlined in this manual may affect your warranty.
Incorrect and/or insufficient maintenance may cause product failure resulting in property loss, damage or injury
or death. Maintenance intervals are critical for normal use, extreme use may require shorter or additional
maintenance intervals.
Manual content does not imply. express or other any warranty, the owner should read the limited warranty terms
included in this booklet.
Before using this product, you should be certain your tow vehicle is suitably rated and equipped to tow the
product safely and legally. The trailer and vehicle pairing must we within the safe “Maximum Towing Capacity”,
“Ball Weight Capacity” and “Gross Combination Mass” as stated by the vehicle manufacturer.
This caravan is fitted with electric brakes and a “Breakaway System”. Requirements for breakaway systems can
vary from state to state. It is mandatory to supply a maintenance charge to the breakaway battery source while
driving. You MUST ensure this capability is fitted to your vehicle. The maintenance charge is supplied to the
caravan via the Anderson plug on the drawbar.
BALL LOADING (DOWNWARD LOAD ON TOW HITCH) MUST NOT EXCEED
350KG OR THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER OR TOW BAR RATING,
WHICH EVER IS THE LOWEST. Exceeding these limits may result in an accident causing serious injury or death
and/or property damage.
It is important to load your caravan correctly to distribute weight evenly and achieve a suitable ball weight load
and prevent loading in a manner that can cause a camper to sway and/or roll excessively left and right. The
optimum ball weight on a caravan is between 9 and 11% of the total camper weight.
Gas Systems
The installed gas system on this product is an approved and certified installation. Any changes,
modifications or adjustment may render the system non-compliant and dangerous. Market Direct Group
Pty Ltd does not condone, recommend, or otherwise consent to any modifications, adjustment, addition or
tampering in any way with the installed gas system on any and all products.
Chassis
All AUSRV chassis are fully engineered and verified using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software. This
ensures that the chassis for each model passes the relevant regulations and design rules as originally
provided to the customer. Any modification to the chassis or drawbar whatsoever (no matter how minor)
will inevitably change this whether it impacts the towing dynamics, expected loads and stress points,
safety chain attachment points, overall trailer length etc.
AUSRV does not condone, recommend, or otherwise consent to any modifications, adjustment, addition
or tampering in any way with the drawbar, safety chains or safety chain attachment points.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 12
Weight Definitions
Tare Weight: The total weight of the trailer (load on tyres plus coupling load) with all options and fittings
as supplied by the manufacturer, with empty water tanks, excluding fluids not essential for operation
on public roads, and without luggage or personal effects.
ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) Rating: The total permissible mass of the Trailer. This includes the coupling
mass and whatever you add as payload (e.g. water, gas, luggage) up to the specified rating. The ATM Rating
must not be exceeded.
GTM (Gross Trailer Mass) Rating: The total permissible mass that can be supported by the wheels/ tyres of
the Trailer. This includes whatever you add as payload (e.g. water, gas, equipment, and luggage), but does not
include the mass supported by the tow vehicle. The GTM Rating must not be exceeded.
Caravans for illustration purposes only.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 13
Terminology
Ball Weight
The downward load exerted on the tow point of the vehicle by the trailer.
GCM
(Gross Combination Mass): This is the total allowable combined mass of tow vehicle and trailer as
determined by the tow vehicle manufacturer.
Camber
The correct camber setting for these models is 0-0.5° Negative. Camber angle is the measure in degrees of
the difference between the wheel’s vertical alignment perpendicular to the surface. If a wheel is perfectly
perpendicular to the surface, its camber would be 0 degrees. Camber is described as negative when the
top of the tyre begins to tilt inward towards the chassis rail.
Toe In/out
The correct toe in setting for these models is 2mm positive. Negative toe, or toe out, is the front of the wheel
pointing away from the centerline of the vehicle. Positive toe, or toe in, is the front of the wheel pointing
towards the centerline of the vehicle.
Toe can be measured in linear units, at the front or rear of the tyre, or as an angular deflection. In the case of
AUSRV products, the “toe in” is measured in millimeters at the front of the tyre from the chassis rail.
Tow vehicle and Trailer Compatibility
Your tow vehicle manufacturer has applied a maximum towing capacity to the vehicle which is the Aggregate
Trailer Mass (ATM) and a maximum Gross Combination Mass (GCM). These specifications MUST NOT be
exceeded. It is your responsibility to know, understand and follow these specifications. Vehicle manufacturers
may also specify or recommend “Weight Distribution Bars when towing under certain conditions. You MUST
ensure this is compatible with the vehicle and trailer combination. If in doubt consult your tow vehicle
manufacturer.
DANGER
DANGERExceeding manufacturer weight and combination limits can result in
loss of control leading to death or serious injury. Your tow vehicle and hitch must be
rated for the Gross Vehicle Weight of the trailer.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 14
Achieving a Safe Towing Combination
Ensuring a camper or caravan is safe and easy to tow is generally an easy thing to achieve, this doesn’t mean it’s
always the case and sometimes, a vehicle and trailer combination may need some tweaking to make it ideal.
There are a number of aspects that need to be correct in order to maximise towing safety and handling. It is
important to use this information in conjunction with the maximum weight limits applied by your tow vehicle’s
manufacturer as well as ensuring you stay within the maximum specified ratings of your caravan or camper.
These can be found in the vehicle’s owner manual. This summary will address the main aspects, these aspects
include, but may not be limited to the items listed in the following diagram:
Trailer Tyre Pressures
Tyre pressures have a large effect on the handling and performance of any vehicle, be it a towed vehicle or
motorized. The tyre pressure on your camper or caravan will indeed be a major contribution to how well it tows
and resists instability. Due to how much a camper or caravan may vary in weight depending on the cargo, it is
important to have your tyres at the pressure recommended by the trailer manufacturer, for the actual weight of
the trailer when loaded. You should follow the tyre pressure guide in this manual for on road/highway tyre
pressures.
Tow Vehicle Tyre Pressures
Equally as important as trailer tyre pressure is the tyre pressures in your tow vehicle. The added weight of the
trailer ball weight should be factored into calculating the tyre pressures in the rear of the car. What should also be
factored in is the effect the distance of the hitch from the axles plays in leverage. A load on the tow bar of 250kg
may well have the effect of 300kg or more on the vehicles rear tyres meaning additional pressure must be
applied. This will limit sidewall flex and sideways movement of the rear of the vehicle, limiting unwanted
movement that can cause instability in the trailer.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 15
Ball (Coupling) Weight
The ratio of overall weight of the trailer to the weight exhibited on the tow ball or coupling
is an extremely important aspect of making a trailer handle correctly when towed.
Generally, the ball or tongue weight allowed by most vehicle manufacturers is 10% of the
maximum towing capacity. Given this ratio, the caravan industry builds campers and
caravans with this in mind. When loading your AUSRV caravan, you should have a target
ball or coupling weight of 10% or slightly higher to ensure the weight balance is at an ideal
starting point. This figure should not be a guess, you should weigh your caravan with its
normal load when travelling and use a ball weight scale to achieve the desires ball weight.
These are an inexpensive item that will help you get the weight balance right when you
load up for your trip.
Load Placement
Where you place the items in your trailer will affect how it behaves. Loading too much
weight in the extremities of the trailer can have a very bad effect. This manual has a loading guide to assist in this
area. By following the guide and ball weight recommendations you’ll achieve the best possible result. Use the load
placement guide in this manual as a reference for packing your caravan.
Trailer Level
The height of your hitch in respect to the level of the trailer will change the handling while being towed. The best
practice with your AUSRV trailer is when loaded and hitched to the vehicle, the drawbar is NO higher than level.
Ideally you should look to have the drawbar slightly lower than level between 0 and 50mm. Higher than level or
too low will have an adverse effect on how the trailer tows.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 16
Hitch Movement
Most modern tow bars have an adjustable screw fitted to the hitch receiver that can be used to stop the hitch
insert from rattling. Unfortunately this is not a sure fire way to limit sideways movement that can affect how well
your trailer tows. Hitch movement from side to side can cause sway and when combined with a tow vehicle that
has a greater distance between the rear axle centre and the hitch point, this affect can cause serious sway issues.
Combine this with poor tyre pressures on the tow vehicle and you have a recipe for disaster.
If there is excess play in the hitch and hitch receiver, you may need to place shims either side of the insert to limit
the movement. Shims are commercially available such as the pack below.
Vehicle Squat
When the back of a vehicle squats due to cargo and/or ball weight of the trailer, the handling of the tow vehicle
can be changed to its detriment. Vagueness in steering, poor toe, camber, and caster settings due to reduced
front suspension load, reduced brake and tyre grip are often the result. All this in turn can result in a poorly
handling towing combination. The best way to rectify this is upgrading the tow vehicle suspension to be suitable
for the weights being experienced. Some vehicle manufacturers recommend Weight Distribution Hitches (WDH),
this will be outlined in the vehicle owner manual and should be considered. You should also consult with the
trailer manufacturer if this is an appropriate fitment to the trailer. The WDH should NOT be used in off road
operation as it will NOT meet the required articulation that will be experienced. To better setup your tow vehicle
suspension, it’s best to consult a suspension expert experienced with towing requirements.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 17
Maximum Weight Limits
The following is an outline of the ratings that will be specified by the manufacturer of your vehicle and the
camper/caravan manufacturer. These MUST be followed in conjunction with previously mentioned criteria for
safe handling. None of the maximum ratings may be exceeded.
ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass)
This limit is specified by the trailer manufacturer and must NOT be exceeded under any circumstances. The ATM
is the full weight of the loaded trailer including ball (coupling) mass.
Vehicle GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass)
This is the loaded weight including fuel, passengers, cargo, and ball (coupling) mass of the attached trailer on the
tow vehicle.
Axle Load
This is the maximum load on an axle specified by the tow vehicle manufacturer. It is possible to have your vehicle
and trailer within ATM, GVM and GCM load limits but above the axle load limit specified. Be sure that this is not
exceeded.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 18
GCM (Gross Combination Mass)
GCM is the maximum combined load of the tow vehicle and trailer, as specified by the tow vehicle manufacturer.
Never exceed this maximum weight limit.
Towing Combination Summary
The above will assist in tuning or trouble shooting handling problems with your towing combination but are not
the sole influences. Other items for consideration are:
Wheel alignment on both vehicle and trailer.
Wear and tear on:
- Suspension bushes
- Shock absorbers
- Springs
- Tyres
Tow vehicle tyre size (Oversize tyres)
Extended hitches
Distance between axle centre and hitch point
Tow vehicle accessories (Weight distribution)
Real life tow vehicle capability (Not all vehicles are created equal)
The purpose of this information is to help you to do a self-assessment and achieve a sound towing combination. If
you are not confident you can achieve this, you should consult an expert to assist.
If you require assistance from AUSRV, call 1300 494494 option 3 and speak to our customer service department.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 19
Towing Mirrors
Depending on the width of your car mirrors versus the overall width of your camper or caravan, you may
be required to fit extended mirrors to your vehicle when towing. The illustration below shows the
minimum required field of vision through your vehicle’s mirrors.
Note: Mirror extension attachments must be removed when not towing, fitted mirrors that extend must
also be retracted when not towing.
www.marketdirect.com.au
I
Ph: 1300 494 494
I
©Copyright
I Page | 20
Jacking Your Caravan or Camper
Your trailer is fitted with purpose built jacking points and supplied with a suitable jack. An appropriately rated
bottle jack is an acceptable alternative, however when using the jacking point beneath the trailing arm ensure the
jack is of a retracted height that will fit under the jacking point when the tyre is deflated. A suitably rated “High
Lift” jack may be used on the jacking points on the side of the body behind the wheels provided it has the correct
positive engagement fitting to match the trailer. To ensure safe usage the following must be followed:
The jack is to be used on level firm ground wherever possible.
The wheels of the trailer should be chocked, and no person should remain inside the trailer whilst it is
being jacked.
No person should place any portion of their body under a trailer that is supported by a jack.
The trailer should be attached to the towing vehicle whilst being jacked.
When performing maintenance ensure suitably rated jack stands are used do not rely on the trailer
being supported by the jack.
Under the chassis
Under the trailing arm
  • Page 1 1
  • Page 2 2
  • Page 3 3
  • Page 4 4
  • Page 5 5
  • Page 6 6
  • Page 7 7
  • Page 8 8
  • Page 9 9
  • Page 10 10
  • Page 11 11
  • Page 12 12
  • Page 13 13
  • Page 14 14
  • Page 15 15
  • Page 16 16
  • Page 17 17
  • Page 18 18
  • Page 19 19
  • Page 20 20
  • Page 21 21
  • Page 22 22
  • Page 23 23
  • Page 24 24
  • Page 25 25
  • Page 26 26
  • Page 27 27
  • Page 28 28
  • Page 29 29
  • Page 30 30
  • Page 31 31
  • Page 32 32
  • Page 33 33
  • Page 34 34
  • Page 35 35
  • Page 36 36
  • Page 37 37
  • Page 38 38
  • Page 39 39
  • Page 40 40
  • Page 41 41
  • Page 42 42
  • Page 43 43
  • Page 44 44
  • Page 45 45
  • Page 46 46
  • Page 47 47
  • Page 48 48
  • Page 49 49
  • Page 50 50
  • Page 51 51
  • Page 52 52
  • Page 53 53
  • Page 54 54
  • Page 55 55
  • Page 56 56
  • Page 57 57
  • Page 58 58
  • Page 59 59
  • Page 60 60
  • Page 61 61
  • Page 62 62
  • Page 63 63
  • Page 64 64
  • Page 65 65
  • Page 66 66
  • Page 67 67
  • Page 68 68
  • Page 69 69
  • Page 70 70
  • Page 71 71
  • Page 72 72
  • Page 73 73
  • Page 74 74
  • Page 75 75
  • Page 76 76
  • Page 77 77
  • Page 78 78
  • Page 79 79
  • Page 80 80
  • Page 81 81
  • Page 82 82
  • Page 83 83
  • Page 84 84
  • Page 85 85
  • Page 86 86
  • Page 87 87
  • Page 88 88
  • Page 89 89
  • Page 90 90
  • Page 91 91
  • Page 92 92
  • Page 93 93
  • Page 94 94
  • Page 95 95
  • Page 96 96
  • Page 97 97
  • Page 98 98
  • Page 99 99
  • Page 100 100
  • Page 101 101
  • Page 102 102
  • Page 103 103
  • Page 104 104
  • Page 105 105
  • Page 106 106
  • Page 107 107
  • Page 108 108
  • Page 109 109
  • Page 110 110
  • Page 111 111
  • Page 112 112
  • Page 113 113
  • Page 114 114
  • Page 115 115
  • Page 116 116
  • Page 117 117
  • Page 118 118
  • Page 119 119
  • Page 120 120
  • Page 121 121
  • Page 122 122
  • Page 123 123
  • Page 124 124
  • Page 125 125
  • Page 126 126
  • Page 127 127
  • Page 128 128
  • Page 129 129
  • Page 130 130

MDC XL13E MKII Owner's manual

Type
Owner's manual
This manual is also suitable for

Ask a question and I''ll find the answer in the document

Finding information in a document is now easier with AI