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Towing a car behind a motorhome in Australia can enhance your travel experience by offering flexibility and convenience. However, it is not as simple as hitching up a trailer and hitting the road. It requires careful preparation, the right equipment, and knowledge of the legal requirements and safety protocols. Each state and territory has its own regulations for towing, and failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or impounding of your vehicle. In this article, we will guide you through the steps involved in towing a car behind a motorhome in Australia, covering topics such as legal requirements, choosing the right equipment, preparing the car and motorhome for towing, safety tips, and more.
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What You'll Learn
Know the rules of the road
When towing a car behind a motorhome in Australia, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations that apply. While flat towing or A-frame towing is legal in all states and territories, each state and territory has its own specific regulations for towing. Therefore, it is essential to research and understand the local laws and requirements for each area you plan to travel through.
Firstly, you need to know the tow capacity of your motorhome and ensure that it is capable of towing your secondary vehicle. The tow bar's capacity should be equal to or greater than the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of the towed vehicle, and the combined weight should not exceed the motorhome's Gross Combination Mass (GCM) as specified by the manufacturer.
Secondly, the vehicle being towed must comply with the relevant safety standards. This includes having appropriate brake and lighting systems installed and ensuring that the vehicle is roadworthy and in good condition. The brakes, tyres, and lights should be checked regularly, and it is recommended to start the towed vehicle every 300 kilometres to keep the battery charged and the engine lubricated.
In addition, there may be specific speed limits for towing vehicles in certain states, which can be lower than the standard speed limits. It is important to adhere to these speed limits and any other local regulations to avoid fines and penalties and to ensure the safety of all road users.
Furthermore, some areas may require special permits for towing, and it is important to verify that your insurance policy covers towing for both the motorhome and the towed vehicle. When using an A-frame, the assembly may need to be inspected and certified by a qualified person. If any changes are made to the motorhome, towed vehicle, or A-frame, recertification is usually required.
By following these rules and regulations, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey while towing a car behind your motorhome in Australia.
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Choose the right equipment
When towing a car behind a motorhome in Australia, choosing the right equipment is crucial. There are several factors to consider, including the weight of the car, the length of the tow, and your driving experience. Here are some common types of towing equipment and their advantages and disadvantages:
Tow Dolly
A tow dolly is a two-wheel trailer that lifts the front wheels of the car off the ground while the rear wheels roll freely. This option is suitable for smaller cars and can be more affordable than other equipment. However, it may be challenging to manoeuvre and can cause extra wear and tear on tyres. It is important to note that dollies can be expensive to buy and maintain, and they may not be legal in all states or territories.
Flatbed Trailer
A flatbed trailer is a four-wheel trailer that lifts the entire car off the ground. This option provides stability and security for the towed vehicle but may be more expensive and challenging to store due to its size.
Flat Towing or A-Frame Towing
Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, involves attaching the smaller vehicle directly to the back of the motorhome using a tow bar, allowing the car's wheels to roll along the ground. This method eliminates the need for a separate trailer or dolly, making it a direct and efficient option. However, not all cars can be flat towed, and some modifications may be necessary. It is important to note that flat towing is legal across Australia, but each state and territory has specific regulations regarding engineering sign-offs, braking systems, and speed limits.
When choosing between these options, consider your vehicle's compatibility, your budget, and the legal requirements in the areas you plan to travel. Additionally, always ensure that your equipment meets the safety standards set by the Australian Design Rules (ADR), including proper brake and lighting systems. Regular inspections and maintenance are also crucial for a safe towing experience.
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Check weight limits
Weight limits are an important consideration when towing a car behind a motorhome in Australia. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Firstly, understand the weight requirements and regulations. The National Code of Practice for Heavy Vehicle Construction and Modification outlines the rules for large motorhomes or coach conversions. This includes dimensional limits such as length, width, height, and rear overhang. Ensure your motorhome and the car you intend to tow comply with these dimensional standards.
Secondly, check the weight capacity of your motorhome. The towing capacity of your motorhome, also known as the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), should not be exceeded. The combined weight of the motorhome and the towed car must stay within this limit.
Additionally, consider the weight of the car you plan to tow. Different towing methods have weight limitations. For example, A-frame towing, which uses a triangle or 'A'-shaped frame, typically has a weight limit of 2000 kg. If the towed vehicle's Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) exceeds 750 kg, some jurisdictions require a braking system that can be activated by the driver of the towing vehicle.
When selecting a towing method, take into account the weight of the car and the length of the tow. Different methods include towing bars, which are suitable for lighter cars and shorter distances, and trailers, which have their own weight restrictions.
Lastly, be aware of local laws and regulations. Weight restrictions may vary across states and territories in Australia. Some states enforce the '3.5:1 ratio' rule, where the towing vehicle's tare mass must be 3.5 times the mass of the towed vehicle. Ensure you comply with the specific requirements of each location you plan to visit.
By carefully considering these weight limits and regulations, you can ensure a safe and legal towing experience when travelling with a motorhome and towed car in Australia.
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Understand legal requirements
When towing a car behind a motorhome in Australia, it is crucial to understand the legal requirements to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Here are the key points to consider:
Licenses and Permits
Most cases require an appropriate license to tow a car behind a motorhome. The specific license requirements may vary across different states and territories in Australia, so it is essential to research the local laws for each area you plan to travel through.
Insurance
Verify that your insurance policy covers towing for both the motorhome and the towed vehicle. Not all insurers cover flat towing, so it is important to check with your insurance provider.
Towing Equipment
Your towing equipment must meet the safety standards set by the Australian Design Rules (ADR). This includes having appropriate brake and lighting systems installed on both the motorhome and the towed car. The towbar must comply with ADR standards and have a capacity equal to or greater than the total mass of the towed vehicle and the A-frame coupling. Safety chains are essential to prevent disconnection in case of primary attachment failure. A supplemental braking system is crucial for reducing wear on the motorhome's brakes and ensuring safer stops.
Roadworthiness
Before towing a car, ensure that it is roadworthy and in good condition. Check the brakes, tires, lighting systems, and other vital components to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Towing Speed Limits
Some states in Australia have specific speed limits for towing vehicles, which may be lower than the standard speed limits. Always check the regulations for your location to comply with the speed limits.
Weight Limits
Ensure that the combined weight of the motorhome and the towed car does not exceed the motorhome's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). Additionally, the overall length of the towing combination must not exceed 19 meters.
A-Frame Towing Requirements
If you are using an A-frame towing assembly, there are specific requirements to consider. The A-frame must comply with Australian Design Rule 62 Mechanical Connections between Vehicles. The A-frame attachment mechanism must be designed and constructed to meet set standards, ensuring sufficient strength to hold the vehicles together. The A-frame should be parallel to the roadway on a flat surface when hooking up the towed vehicle. The steering lock of the towed vehicle should be disengaged, and the ignition should be on but not started.
State-Specific Regulations
It is important to note that each state and territory in Australia has its own set of rules and regulations for towing. Some states enforce the ''3.5:1 ratio' rule, where the towing vehicle's tare mass must be 3.5 times the mass of the towed vehicle. Other jurisdictions require a braking system activated by the driver of the towing vehicle for towed vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) over 750kg. Always research the specific requirements for each state and territory you plan to travel through.
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Safety checks
When towing a car behind a motorhome in Australia, safety must be the top priority. Here are some crucial safety checks to follow:
Safety Equipment
Ensure your towing equipment meets the Australian Design Rules (ADR) safety standards. This includes having proper brake and lighting systems installed on both the motorhome and the towed car. Check that the brake lights and turn signals are functioning correctly on both vehicles.
Vehicle Roadworthiness
Before commencing your trip, inspect both the motorhome and the car to ensure they are roadworthy and in good condition. Check the brakes, tyres, and lights on both vehicles. Make sure the tyres are properly inflated and free from any significant wear or damage.
Weight Limits
Verify that the combined weight of the motorhome and the towed car does not exceed the motorhome's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). Each state and territory's laws work on the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of the towed vehicle. Ensure that the tow bar's capacity is equal to or greater than the GVM of the towed car, and that the combined weight does not exceed the motorhome's specified Gross Combination Mass.
Proper Loading
If you are using a trailer to tow the car, ensure that the weight is distributed evenly to avoid instability during your journey.
Practice Driving
Before embarking on your trip, practice driving with the added length and weight of the towed car. Get comfortable with turns, stops, and backing up in a safe, open area. This will help you adjust to the different handling characteristics of the combined vehicles.
Towing Speed Limits and Local Laws
Research and understand the specific regulations and speed limits for towing in each state and territory you plan to travel through. Some states enforce specific speed limits for towing vehicles, which may be lower than standard speed limits. Complying with these regulations is essential to ensure your safety and avoid fines or penalties.
Insurance
Verify that your insurance policy covers towing for both the motorhome and the towed vehicle. Not all insurers cover flat towing, so consider specialist RV insurance if necessary.
Regular Inspections
Before each trip, conduct regular inspections of the connections, lights, and brakes. Also, remember to start the engine of the towed vehicle every 300km or so to keep the battery charged and run oil through the engine.
By diligently following these safety checks and adhering to legal requirements, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable towing experience as you explore Australia.
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Frequently asked questions
There are three primary methods for towing a car behind an RV: flat towing, dolly towing, and trailer towing. Flat towing involves attaching a car to the back of an RV using a tow bar, while dolly towing uses a two-wheel trailer to lift the front wheels of the car. Trailer towing, on the other hand, employs a four-wheeled trailer to lift the entire car off the ground.
Safety is paramount when towing a vehicle. Regular inspections of connections, lights, and brakes are necessary. Weight limits should also be considered, ensuring the combined weight does not exceed the RV's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). Proper loading, practicing driving with the added length and weight, and monitoring tyre pressure and conditions are also essential.
Each state and territory in Australia has its own regulations for towing. It is important to understand these legal requirements to avoid fines or penalties. In most cases, you will need the appropriate license and permits. Additionally, specific speed limits for towing vehicles may apply in some states.
The equipment needed depends on the chosen towing method. For flat towing, you will require a tow bar, base plates, and a supplemental braking system. Dolly towing requires a tow dolly, proper strapping, and a braking system. Trailer towing necessitates a four-wheeled trailer. It is crucial to ensure that your towing equipment meets the safety standards set by the Australian Design Rules (ADR).
