Rear vision or reversing cameras are becoming more common as a standard feature in modern vehicles. In fact, America has just recently introduced legislation to make reversing cameras a mandatory safety feature in all new vehicles.
When towing in particular, we recommend setting up dual rear vision camera’s. One on the rear of the car. This is great to use when you are hooking up the caravan or trailer as it allows you to see the tow ball/hitch. We recommend a second (dual) camera installed on the back of your caravan.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON DRIVER AWARENESS: It is possible for drivers to become over-reliant on reverse technology. while technology will greatly improve reversing and road safety, it should not replace active supervision!
Having a rear vision camera for towing can help in two main ways:
1. Increased visibility when driving
Now that you have your caravan hooked up, the total length of vehicle and caravan is usually more than double the vehicle. Which means you now have bigger blind spots. With a rear vision camera fitted to your caravan, you can leave the camera on while driving. This majorly improves visibility when merging or overtaking, very useful for highway driving!
2. Assistance for tight manoeuvring.
We’ve all been there – trying to get the caravan into a tight spot at a caravan park before the sun sets, narrowly avoiding a disagreement between driver and spotter. Well, with a camera on the rear of the caravan, this allows you to see behind the van and reverse it into that tight spot easily. Hopefully saving a few arguments in the process. 😉
Bonus Tips for Reversing Your Caravan
If you have recently purchased a caravan and don’t have much experience towing or manoeuvring, here are some quick tips for reversing.
1. Take it Slow
If you are moving at a slower pace, you will have more time to make minor steering adjustments before you get yourself in an undesirable situation. Patience is critical, especially if you are new to the whole experience.
2. Use Your Mirrors
Use your left and right mirrors to monitor the rear corners of the trailer, this will give you an indication of any trailer change in direction. If you see too much of the trailer on one side, turn the wheel towards that mirror to straighten up.
Move your hands from the top of the steering wheel to the bottom. Moving your hands to the left will now move the caravan to the left and vice versa. Once you have established the right amount of turn, straighten up to the point where the vehicle follows the caravan on the same arc.
If you end up in a jackknife position, there are a few things to do to get out of it.
- Stop immediately before you cause any damage.
- Turn the steering full lock away from the angle of the jackknife.
- Move forward slowly and this will straight the combination very quickly.
6. Reversing into a Caravan Site:
When reverse parking, take it slow and if you can, set up markers to simplify your parking.
- Remove your Weight Distribution Bars prior to reversing into the parking bay.
- Identify any hazards in or around your site.
- Take it slowly and use a spotter (or rear vision camera) to stop you from hitting anything or cause damage.
For more tips on Reversing a Caravan, check out this great article from Caravanning with Kids >> Caravan Reversing Tips for Newbies <<
The specialised team at Accelerate Auto Electrics are more than happy to assist with any inquiries that you may have regarding Rear Vision cameras for towing your caravan or camper trailer. Get in touch with us on 07 5479 6652 or contact us here!
