We have purchased a 1970s Franklin Hunter Caravan where the previous owners have installed a domestic LG split system (see photos below) - our worry is that our 2007 kia Sportage 4x4 cant handle the weight of the split system and are contemplating getting it removed. The previous owners also installed a full size fridge. Can anyone enlighten us as to whether our vehicle would be capable of towing all the additional utilities??? Or, should we try and lighten our load?
We have purchased a 1970s Franklin Hunter Caravan where the previous owners have installed a domestic LG split system (see photos below) - our worry is that our 2007 kia Sportage 4x4 cant handle the weight of the split system and are contemplating getting it removed. The previous owners also installed a full size fridge. Can anyone enlighten us as to whether our vehicle would be capable of towing all the additional utilities??? Or, should we try and lighten our load?
Hi Cathie.Yours is a "how long is a piece of string" question.As suggested,the first thing you must do is weigh your car and van.Maximum towing capacity is only 1500kg,so you are somewhat restricted there.With your car and van loaded,ready for travel, go to a weighbridge.First,weigh your car's front axle.Next,weigh the whole car.This must not exceed 2200kg.(Less in actual fact,but we're getting a bit complicated already!) Subtract front axle weight from total weight of car.This will give you rear axle weight,but there are further complications,which I will explain later.(Rear axle carrying capacity being the main issue).Now drive both car and van onto weighbridge to get total weight.This must not exceed 3700kg.By subtracting weight of car from total weight you will get the weight on the van's wheels (GTM,or gross trailed mass).Now you must unhook the van from the car,leaving only the van on the weighbridge,supported by its wheels and the jockey wheel.This obviously gives you the total weight of the van,which must not exceed your 1500kg towing limit.If you can supply all these weights,we will be able to provide help. Back to your AC.On my drawbar I have a 35kg Mitsubishii Heavy Industries 2.5kw reverse cycle unit,which adds about 25kg to my towball weight. Yours being a 1970s van,there may not be any useful information on the compliance plate,if it even has one,but have a look and advise. Cheers
