Swift Owner's Handbook - Swift Group

The Towing CodeMIRRORSThe driver of the towing vehicle must have anadequate view of the rear.If there is no rear view through the caravan itis essential that additional exterior towingmirrors are fitted. This is mandatory is someEuropean countries and drivers can faceinstant fines if extension mirrors are not fitted.Caution: Any rear view mirror must notproject more than 200 mm outside:a) the width of the caravan when beingtowed.b) the width of the towing vehicle whendriven solo.Note: Any rear view mirror fitted shall be ‘e’marked and cover the field of view asstipulated by type approval requirements(Regulation 33 of the Road Vehicles[Construction and Use] Regulation 1986).PULLING OFFLet the clutch in smoothly.Allow more engine speed to produce thepower to move the additional weight of thecaravan.Reduce wear and tear on clutch andtransmission by taking extra care.Change gears smoothly.Try not to jerk the clutch.Fig. A ReversingREVERSINGProficiency at reversing can only be achievedwith practice and should be first attemptedin a large open area (Fig. A).SPEED LIMITSNormal road towing: 50mphMotorways (including dual carriageways):60mphCARAVAN HANDLINGAllow for caravan being wider than car.Do not bump kerb with caravan wheels.When passing other vehicles allow more thanthe normal clearance for driving solo.Allow longer to get up speed to pass.Allow for the outfit being twice its normallength.Do not suddenly swing out.Carry out all manoeuvres as smoothly aspossible.Use nearside wing mirror to check caravanhas cleared when overtaking.IMPORTANT POINTS ESPECIALLYFOR MOTORWAY DRIVING1. Caravans may not be towed in the outsidelane of a three or four lane motorway.(Reg. 12(2) of the Motorway Traffic[England and Wales] Regulations 1982).13