Compass RALLYE User guide

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COMPASS RALLYE - MODEL YEAR 2016

CONTENTS-1
CONTENTS
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION ........ 1-1
Model Year Designation .......................... 1-1
Compass Technical Approvals ................ 1-1
GENERAL SAFETY ............................... 2-1
Please read before using your new
caravan. .................................................. 2-1
Ventilation ............................................... 2-2
High-Level Ventilation ............................. 2-2
Low-Level Ventilation .............................. 2-2
Ventilation in Separate Bedrooms ........... 2-2
Gas Dispersal Holes ............................... 2-2
Petrol/Diesel Fumes ................................ 2-2
Fire Safety ............................................... 2-2
Fire Extinguishers ................................... 2-2
In Case Of Fire ........................................ 2-2
Fire Retardant Foams ............................. 2-2
Escape Paths .......................................... 2-2
Your Caravan Payload Explained ........... 2-3
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD ............... 3-1
Caravan Towing Vehicle Weight Ratio .... 3-1
Loading ................................................... 3-1
Internal Loading & Checks ...................... 3-1
External Loading & Checks ..................... 3-2
Pre-Tow Checklist & Hitch-Up ................. 3-2
TOWING AND DRIVING ......................... 4-1
Reversing ................................................ 4-1
Speed Limits ........................................... 4-1
Setting Off ............................................... 4-1
Caravan Handling ................................... 4-1
Motorway Driving .................................... 4-2
Towing Covers ........................................ 4-2
Tyre and Wheel Checks .......................... 4-2
ARRIVING ON SITE ............................... 5-1
Check Site Regulations ........................... 5-1
Selecting a Pitch ..................................... 5-1
Side-To-Side Levelling ............................ 5-1
Leveller Jack ........................................... 5-1
Ramp ...................................................... 5-1
Front & Back Levelling ............................ 5-1
Parking on a Reverse-Sloping Site
or Steep Hill ............................................ 5-2
Entering and Exiting the Caravan ........... 5-2
GETTING STARTED .............................. 6-1
Electricity ................................................. 6-1
Power Supply Charger ............................ 6-1
12v Systems: .......................................... 6-1
Generator/Charger .................................. 6-1
Electricity Mains Supply .......................... 6-1
Connecting To Mains Supply On
Arrival at Site ........................................... 6-1
Disconnecting Mains Supply When
Leaving Site ............................................ 6-2
Overseas Electrical Connection .............. 6-2
Gas Safety Advice ................................... 6-3
Facts about LPG ..................................... 6-3
Awning Spaces, LPG and Appliance
Exhaust ................................................... 6-3
LPG Gas System .................................... 6-3
Gas Supply ............................................. 6-4
Connection .............................................. 6-4
Changing a gas cylinder ......................... 6-4
Auto Changeover Gas Regulator ............ 6-4
High Pressure Gas Hoses ...................... 6-6
Water System .......................................... 6-7
High Flow Watermaster Pump with
Intelligent Control (IC) ............................. 6-7
Maintenance ........................................... 6-9
Helpful Hints ............................................ 6-9
Troubleshooting .................................... 6-10
Diagnostic Codes .................................. 6-10
Winterising ............................................ 6-10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM .......................... 7-1
12v Power Supply ................................... 7-1
Battery Installation .................................. 7-1
Battery Maintenance ............................... 7-1
Generators / Charger .............................. 7-1
230v Power Supply ................................. 7-1
Mains Unit ............................................... 7-1
Resetting the RCD .................................. 7-1
Automatic Charging System ................... 7-2
Maximum Bulb Ratings for Internal Lights7-2
Connecting a Solar Panel
and/or Satellite Dish ................................ 7-3
External Solar Panel Connection ............ 7-3
External Satellite TV Connection ............ 7-3
HOW TO USE YOUR CARAVAN’S
EQUIPMENT ........................................... 8-1
Electrical Control Panels ......................... 8-1
Rallye ...................................................... 8-1
Combined Cooker Hob, Oven and Grill .. 8-3
Using the Hotplate Gas Burners ............. 8-3
Using the Electric Hotplate ...................... 8-4
Using the Grill ......................................... 8-4
Using the Oven ....................................... 8-5
Oven Temperature Control ...................... 8-5
Refrigerator ............................................. 8-7
Defrosting ............................................... 8-11
Switching off Refrigerator ....................... 8-11
MY2016/Rallye

CONTENTS-2
CONTENTS
Winter operation .................................... 8-12
Alde Heating ......................................... 8-13
Alde 3020 Control Panel ....................... 8-13
Whale Watermaster® Exterior Water
Pump with Intelligent Control® .............. 8-16
Microwave ............................................. 8-23
Battery Charger ..................................... 8-24
Smoke Alarm ......................................... 8-24
Operation .............................................. 8-24
Nuisance Alarms ................................... 8-25
Maintenance ......................................... 8-25
Cleaning your Alarm .............................. 8-25
Carbon Monoxide Alarm ....................... 8-26
Recognising Alarm Signals and
Warnings ............................................... 8-26
Using your Alarm ................................... 8-26
Switching on your CO Alarm ................. 8-26
Re-setting the Alarm ............................. 8-26
Replacement of Batteries ...................... 8-26
Carbon Monoxide Alarm Procedure ...... 8-27
Maintenance of your Alarm ................... 8-27
Thetford Cassette C260 Toilet .............. 8-28
Parts ...................................................... 8-28
Optional Features ................................. 8-28
Preparing for use (Standard) ................ 8-28
Preparing for use with Optional
Features ................................................ 8-30
Using the toilet (Standard) .................... 8-30
Using the toilet with Optional Features . 8-30
Emptying ............................................... 8-30
Emptying with Optional Features .......... 8-31
Cleaning and Maintenance ................... 8-31
Toilet Bowl ............................................. 8-31
Waste Holding Tank .............................. 8-32
Winter operation .................................... 8-32
Storage ................................................. 8-32
Toilet Unit Malfunctions ......................... 8-33
Rooflights .............................................. 8-33
The Omnivent (12v) Rooflight ............... 8-33
The Heki 2 Rooflight ............................. 8-33
Midi Heki Rooflight ................................ 8-34
MPK Rooflight ....................................... 8-35
Windows ............................................... 8-36
Polyplastic Window Opening ................ 8-36
Blinds & Flyscreens .............................. 8-36
Flyscreens ............................................. 8-36
Shower .................................................. 8-37
Taps ...................................................... 8-37
Gas Locker Door ................................... 8-38
Internal Doors ....................................... 8-38
High Level Locker ................................. 8-38
Magnetic Catches ................................. 8-39
Sprung Hinges ...................................... 8-39
Sliding Doors ......................................... 8-39
Bed Make-up ......................................... 8-40
Front Wrap Round Seating (Option) ..... 8-40
Removable Drawer Locker ................... 8-41
Radio/CD with MP3 Connectivity .......... 8-41
Teleco TV Aerial .................................... 8-41
How to use your TV Aerial ..................... 8-43
Protect - Autowatch Alarm System
(Option Only) ......................................... 8-45
Al-Ko Trailer - Control ........................... 8-46
SECURITY .............................................. 9-1
Caravan Theft ......................................... 9-1
Al-Ko Secure Wheel Lock ....................... 9-2
CRIS - The Caravan Registration and
Identification Scheme .............................. 9-4
Window Etching & Chassis Marking ....... 9-4
Electronic Tagging ................................... 9-5
CARE OF YOUR CARAVAN ................ 10-1
Exterior Cleaning .................................. 10-1
Acrylic Windows .................................... 10-1
Care Instructions for Seitz Rooflights .... 10-1
Window Blinds & Flyscreens ................. 10-1
Winterisation/Storage ............................ 10-1
Interior Walls ......................................... 10-1
Furniture ................................................ 10-1
Cooking Equipment ............................... 10-1
Soft Furnishings .................................... 10-2
Winterisation and Storage ..................... 10-3
Shower Trays, Shower Room and
Wash Basin Fittings .............................. 10-3
Cleaning of all Taps ............................... 10-3
Water Containers .................................. 10-3
Thetford Toilet ....................................... 10-4
Chassis Mounted Spare Wheel Carrier 10-5
Tyres ..................................................... 10-5
Pressures .............................................. 10-5
Tyre Wear and Damage ........................ 10-5
Changing a Wheel ................................ 10-5
Jacking .................................................. 10-6
Lubrication ............................................ 10-6
The Alko Caravan Chassis .................... 10-7
Chassis members ................................. 10-7
Drilling or Welding of Parts or
Accessories ........................................... 10-7
Independent Suspension ...................... 10-7
Coupling Head ...................................... 10-7
Secondary Braking (Breakaway Cable) 10-7
Brake Drum/Hub Assembly ................... 10-7
Operating Instructions ........................... 10-8
Braking system adjustment ................. 10-10

CONTENTS-3
CONTENTS
STORAGE ............................................ 11-1
Long Term & Winter Storage .................. 11-1
Caravan Covers ..................................... 11-1
Power Drain ........................................... 11-1
CARAVAN WARRANTY COVER ......... 12-1
non warranty repairs ............................. 12-3
Remedial Work ...................................... 12-3
CARAVAN CONSTRUCTION -
MAIN COMPONENTS .......................... 13-1
Alko Chassis ......................................... 13-1
Braking System ..................................... 13-1
Solid Construction Body Shell ............... 13-1
Windows ............................................... 13-1
Insulation ............................................... 13-1
Front Panel and Gas Bottle Locker Door13-1
Awning Channel .................................... 13-1
EQUIPMENT LIST ................................ 14-1
Rallye .................................................... 14-1
WIRING DIAGRAM - RALLYE ............. 15-1
Road Lights - Rallye .............................. 15-2
GENERAL QUESTIONS ...................... 16-1
GLOSSARY .......................................... 17-1
SERVICE DOCUMENTS ...................... 18-1
NOTIFICATION OF CHANGE OF
OWNERSHIP ........................................ 19-1
NOTIFICATION OF CHANGE TO
NAME AND ADDRESS ........................ 20-1
USEFUL ADDRESSES ........................ 21-1
INDEX ................................................... 22-1

CONTENTS-4
CONTENTS

1-1
INTRODUCTION
WELCOME AND
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on choosing an Compass
Touring Caravan.
This Owner’s Handbook has been prepared
for your guidance to help you derive the
greatest amount of pleasure from the use of
your caravan and your leisure time. We
strongly recommend that you read this guide
thoroughly so that you are fully aware of all
the caravan’s features, equipment and
systems.
Additional information and detailed appliance
instruction manuals are also contained in
your Owner’s Information Pack which can be
found within the kit box supplied with your
caravan.
Your new caravan has been designed as a
recreational vehicle and is intended for
recreational use only. It is not intended for
business, hire use or for permanent
habitation. Compass accepts no liability if
the caravan is used for any purpose other
than recreational/holiday use. Any use
other than recreational/holiday use will
invalidate your warranty.
Your caravan has been designed for towing
behind a normal motor car. Additional care
should be exercised when towing with a 4x4
because of the ‘off-road’ nature of the
suspension. Owners should not tow their
touring caravans with commercial vehicles.
When selecting a towing vehicle it is
recommended that you consult the Caravan
Towing Code, which is available from the
NCC.
By following the instructions provided in this
handbook and maintaining your caravan in a
first class roadworthy condition, you are sure
to have many years of carefree use.
To ensure the very best quality and reliability
all touring caravan designs and new
developments are rigorously tested.
Therefore, Compass will accept no liability or
uphold the warranty if the caravan is altered
or modified in such a way that would
adversely affect the reliability.
Please note: It is a condition of your
warranty that the caravan must have an
“annual service” carried out by an Compass
approved Retailer / Service Centre or NCC
Approved Workshop or NCC equivalent
standard as set out in this handbook and a
record is kept. Pages are provided in the back
of this guide, for your assistance.
A Compass Approved Retailer / Service
Centre will be able to supply any replacement
parts for your caravan, should the need arise,
and in most cases any accessories you may
require.
Please note: It is not possible to purchase
replacement parts direct from Compass.
Changing market and supply situations may
prevent us from maintaining the exact
specification details in this guide and we
therefore reserve the right to alter
specifications as materials and conditions
demand.
Enjoy your new caravan
Model Year Designation
All Touring caravans manufactured by
Compass are designated by their model year.
The 2016 model year runs from 1st
September 2015 to 31st August 2016.
Compass Technical Approvals
All Compass Caravans have been European
Commission Whole Vehicle Type Approved via
the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA).
In order to ensure your new caravan is safe to
use, Compass are members of and have been
inspected by the following bodies.
NCC operate a certification scheme to ensure
compliance with the European safety
standards for caravans.
National Inspection Council for Electrical
Installation and Contracting (NICEIC) who
carry out an annual inspection of Compass
electrical installations within caravans.
Gas Safe Register™ approved installers carry
out an annual inspection to ensure that the
gas installations carried out by Compass fully
comply with all relevant regulations and
standards.
Compass has also obtained ISO9001:2015
accreditation and this is audited by SGS UK
Limited.

1-2
INTRODUCTION

2-1
GENERAL SAFETY
GENERAL SAFETY
Please read before using your new
caravan.
In order for you to get the most out of your
new Compass caravan it is necessary for you
to be aware of the following:
(i) Do not obstruct ventilators and clean
them regularly, it is advisable to clean
and check all the ventilators annually for
blockages and where necessary rectify
any blockages found.
(ii) Inspect the high pressure flexible gas
hose (available from your retailer)
regularly for deterioration and renew as
necessary, with an approved type, in
any case no later than the expiry date
stated on the hose.
(iii) Ensure the gas supply and all
appliances are turned off before towing
your caravan.
(iv) If your caravan has been fitted with a
gas BBQ point it must be only used for
its intended purpose. Do not use a gas
barbeque within an awning.
(v) Never use portable cooking or heating
equipment inside your caravan. Do not
use your fitted cooking equipment as
heating at any time.
(vi) Never allow modification to your gas or
electrical system unless qualified
persons carry them out. All modification
to the gas system should be carried out
by a Gas Safe Register™ approved gas
fitter. Any modifications carried out on
the electrical system must be carried
out by an electrician on the roll of the
NICEIC or be a member of the ECA.
(vii) If you suspect there is a gas leak please
open all the windows then vacate the
caravan. Turn off the gas container if
safe to do so, then contact your nearest
Compass Retailer to arrange for them
to check the gas system.
(viii) In the interest of safety, replacement
parts for an appliance should conform
to the appliance manufacturer’s
specifications and must be fitted by
them or an authorised agent.
(ix) It is recommended that you provide a
dry powder fire extinguisher complying
with ISO 7165 of at least 1KG capacity
by the exit door and a fire blanket next
to the cooker. Ensure you read the
‘advice to occupier label’ fitted to your
caravan usually found on the inside of
the wardrobe door.
(x) Never exceed your caravans Maximum
Technical Permissible Laden Mass.
(see Caravan Towing Vehicle Weight
Ratio)
(xi) The laden nose weight for your caravan
should not exceed the lower of the
following:
•Towing vehicles maximum nose
weight
•Tow bar maximum nose weight
•The caravan’s maximum nose weight.
(xii) Ensure heavy and large items are
secured before towing your new
caravan to reduce the risk of damage
being caused while the caravan is in
motion.
(xiii) Pull out worktop extensions, where
fitted, are only designed to take a
maximum weight of 6kgs.
(xiv) Where high level bunks are fitted, care
should be taken when used by children.
The protection against falling out must
be in place when the bunk is used.
(xv) When your caravan is connected to
your towing vehicle it should be level or
slightly nose down.
(xvi) When your caravan is loaded to its
MTPLM and the weight distributed in
accordance with the handbook, your
caravan is designed to be towed at a
maximum speed of 100kmh/60mph.
(xvii) It is illegal to tow your caravan whilst
it is occupied.
(xviii) If your caravan is fitted with a lift up
bunk it is designed for a maximum
weight of 11 stone and is not suitable
for children under 3 years old without
supervision.
(xix) Do not leave children under 14 years of
age unattended in your caravan.
(xx) Your vehicles MIRO is calculated with
no water on board. To travel with water
you must take account of the water in
your vehicle payload. 1 litre of water =
1Kg.

2-2
GENERAL SAFETY
VENTILATION
All caravans manufactured by Compass are
ventilated at both high and low level in
accordance with BSEN 721 Safety
Ventilation.
High-Level Ventilation
This is always provided by fixed ventilation
within the fitted roof skylight. These roof
skylights should be cleaned annually by use
of a small brush to remove any dust that may
have accumulated around the mesh fitted.
On some roof skylights the mesh can be
easily removed to aid cleaning. On fan-
assisted roof skylights it is essential that the
fan is switched off prior to cleaning.
Low-Level Ventilation
Low level ventilation is provided within the
living area of your new caravan and these
can be identified by the fitting of a black
cover to prevent them from being obstructed.
This cover must not be removed. In order to
clean the ventilator, remove the cover by
undoing the two screws and clean using a
small brush. It is essential that the cover is
replaced once cleaning is complete.
Ventilation in Separate Bedrooms
In caravans with separated sleeping areas,
separate ventilation is required and is
provided via a roof skylight at high level and
a ventilator at low level within a bed box or
under the fixed bed.
Gas Dispersal Holes
All appliances and gas taps have a gas
dispersal hole nearby. It is essential that
these are not blocked or made ineffective.
Petrol/Diesel Fumes
The fitting of a tail pipe to your exhaust will
reduce the possibility of fumes entering your
caravan through the front fixed ventilation
points.
FIRE SAFETY
Fire Extinguishers
It is recommended that a 1 kg minimum
capacity dry powder fire extinguisher be
carried inside your caravan at all times. A
pan fire must not have an extinguisher aimed
at it, but must be smothered with a fire
blanket.
In Case Of Fire
(i) Get everyone out of the caravan as
quickly as possible using whichever exit
is quickest including windows. Do not
stop to collect any personal items.
(ii) Raise the alarm. Call the fire brigade.
(iii) Turn off the gas container valve if safe to
do so.
Fire Retardant Foams
All caravans are equipped with either
Combustion Modified High Resilient
(C.M.H.R.) foam cushions or sprung
mattresses and fire retardent fabric. All
furnishings and fabrics used by Compass
comply with the Furniture and Furnishings
(Fire Safety) Regulations. In addition all
upholstery is made of fire retardant fabric.
Escape Paths
Your new touring caravan has been provided
with escape paths to be used in the event of
an emergency. One of which is always the
main habitation door and others are the large
windows to be used where necessary. Care
must be taken when exiting via a window due
to the potential drop to ground level.
IMPORTANT: Your attention is drawn to
the notice affixed in the caravan’s
wardrobe advising on fire prevention,
ventilation and what to do in case of fire.

2-3
GENERAL SAFETY
YOUR CARAVAN PAYLOAD
EXPLAINED
Definitions
Plated maximum technical
permissible laden mass (PMTPLM)
As specified by Compass and in compliance
with the European Directive on Masses and
dimensions of vehicles.
Actual MTPLM
Maximum mass of the vehicle, which takes
into account operating conditions including,
factors such as the strength of materials,
loading capacity of the tyres etc.
Mass of the caravan in running
order (MIRO)
This is the weight of your caravan as it
leaves our factory plus the following:
A mass of 10kgs per gas cylinder, the
cylinder number is equal to the number
of connections provided at the regulator.
Personal effects payload (PEP)
This is calculated by the following formula:
10L + 10N + 50
L is the body length of the caravan in
meters.
N is the number of berths.
50 is for normal equipment carried in the
caravan, a sample list is given below.
Kettle ................................... 0.5kgs
Bed linen ................................. 6kgs
Crockery ................................. 5kgs
Saucepans .............................. 3kgs
Wastemaster ........................... 6kgs
Aquaroll (empty) ..................... 5kgs
Waste bin ................................. 1kg
Cutlery .................................... 2kgs
Toilet fluid etc ....................... 2.5kgs
Battery .................................. 25kgs
Optional equipment payload (OEP)
This is an amount of weight provided by us
for factory fitted options.
Please note: Any options fitted by the
retailer will reduce the overall payload
available to the customer.
User Payload is the sum of the PEP and the
OEP.
Note: It may be possible to upgrade your
Plated MTPLM to the Actual MTPLM up to
the caravan being 3 years old, there is an
administration fee for this service.
Note: Please ensure you never load your
caravan above the plated MTPLM.
Note: Please take care to ensure you have
allowed for the mass of all the items you
intend to take in your caravan.

2-4
GENERAL SAFETY

3-1
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
CARAVAN TOWING VEHICLE
WEIGHT RATIO
This ratio has a major influence on stability. It
is recommended that:
(i) The laden nose weight for your caravan
should not exceed the lower of the
following:
*Towing vehicles maximum nose
weight,
*The caravan’s maximum nose weight,
is 100kgs.
(ii) The actual laden weight of the caravan
should always be kept as light as
possible. The lighter it is whilst being
towed on a road, the safer the outfit
combination will be.
(iii) What you are able to tow is dependent
on your driving licence.
(iv) If you are a B licence holder you can
only tow a car/caravan combination of
total weight not exceeding 3500kgs and
the cars kerb weight must be greater
than the caravans plated MTPLM.
Note: It is strongly recommended that
the caravan plated MTPLM should not
exceed the cars kerb weight.
(v) If you hold a B + E licence you can tow
up to a combination weight of 7000kgs.
(vi) The greater the actual laden weight of
the caravan in relation to the kerb weight
of the towing vehicle the more careful
and experienced the driver needs to be
and the lower the speed at which
instability could occur.
WARNING: It is strongly recommended
the loaded weight of the caravan does not
exceed the kerb weight of the towing
vehicle.
LOADING
Always lower and secure the jockey wheel
and the four corner steadies (with the brace
provided) before entering the caravan. This
will ensure that the caravan does not tip up
when you are inside.
Please note: Corner steadies should not be
used as a jacking or levelling device.
Internal Loading & Checks
When loading your caravan it is advisable to:
(i) Distribute items evenly over the axle and
as low as possible to optimise road
holding and achieve the best possible
braking effect.
(ii) Do not overload on one side as this will
cause the caravan to lean and affect the
road holding and stability.
(iii) Do not stow tins, bottles or heavy items
in overhead lockers when towing.
(iv) Loose articles should be stowed
securely to avoid movement and
possible damage.
(v) Ensure that all lockers, cupboard doors
and showers doors are closed and room
partitions are secured.
(vi) Secure all bunks (if appropriate).
(vii) Store the main dining table in its transit
position.
(viii) Set the refrigerator for 12V operation if
any fresh food is stored in it and ensure
the door is locked.
(ix) Fully close and lock all windows and
rooflights. Never tow with windows on
night setting.
(x) Leave all curtains and blinds open to
prevent damage in transit. If your
caravan has a rear window this may aid
visibility.
(xi) Ensure you remove all items from the
microwave and cocktail cabinet before
towing.

3-2
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
External Loading & Checks
(i) Gas cylinders should only be stored,
correctly positioned, and secured in the
gas bottle locker. The gas should be
turned off.
(ii) The leisure battery is stored and
secured in the battery locker box, set
into the tray provided and secured.
(iii) Any external connections (battery
chargers, connecting cables etc), should
be disconnected and stowed.
(iv) Check that all exterior locker doors are
secure and locked.
(v) Secure and lock the main caravan
entrance door.
PRE-TOW CHECKLIST & HITCH-UP
Having loaded the touring caravan and
secured the lockers and main entrance door:
(i) Check touring caravan wheel bolts are
torque tightened to the required level
(See Index - Changing a Wheel).
(ii) Check tyre pressures (Refer to the
Technical Data Sheet) and tyre condition
for roadworthiness.
(iii) Ensure the jockey wheel is down, in
good contact with the ground, clamp
tightly secured, and the caravan
handbrake is fully on.
(iv) Wind up the corner steadies.
(v) Reverse the car close up to the
caravan’s hitch. It is advisable to seek
assistance to guide you so that the car
tow ball aligns with the caravan’s hitch.
(Use of the caravan handbrake is
advised. Extreme caution should be
taken if manoeuvring the caravan down
hill or on wet, slippery surfaces).
(vi) Make sure the jockey wheel height is
sufficient for the hitch head to clear the
towing vehicles tow ball.
(vii) Manoeuvre the hitch head over the tow
ball and lower the jockey wheel using
the winding handle, until the hitch head
opening sits comfortably over the tow
bar ball.
CABLES
For peace of mind, you may wish to check
the ability of the cables to be able to cope
with towing the vehicle at extreme angles
before setting off. To do so position the
vehicle at alternate extreme angles and
check that the cables do not pull too tight, are
liable to stretch or become unplugged. No
cables should be allowed to touch the ground
as they will wear and become damaged and
ineffective.
Please note: If having followed this advice,
you feel you cannot achieve a satisfactory
cable arrangement, consult your caravan or
tow bar supplier or service agent.
Stabiliser operating instructions
Coupling handle (Fig. 1/Item 1), Stabiliser
Lever (Fig. 1/Item 2)
The Stabiliser lever (Fig. 2/Item 2) must be in
the uppermost position (open).
Fig 1
1 2
Fig 2 Fig 3

3-3
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
Coupling
•Pull the coupling handle (Fig. 3/Item 1)
up in the direction of arrow. The coupling
mechanism has an open position ie. as
long as the AKS 3004 is not placed on
the ball, the handle will remain open. Put
the opened coupling onto the clean
towball. The handle must now make an
audible click and return to the flat
position.
WARNING: The coupling is correctly
engaged when the green edge of the
safety indicator button is visible (Fig. 4/
Item 3).
WARNING: Always ensure that the jockey
wheel is fully raised and secure before
commencing any journey.
Stabiliser Unit:
•To operate the Stabiliser (once coupled
to the towball), simple press the stabiliser
lever down as far as it will go (Fig. 4/Item
2).
Uncoupling
•Pull the stabiliser lever handle up as far
as it will go, open the coupling handle
and lift the AKS 3004 from the towball.
With larger nose loads, coupling and
uncoupling can be made easier by using
the jockey wheel to assist lifting.
The friction pads are pressed against the
towball and hence generate a stabilising/
damping force. These pads are therefore
subject to wear over time, however they will
have a long service life (circa. 30,000 Miles),
provided they are well maintained and kept
free of grease/dirt.
Fig 4
Checking the efficiency of the left/right
friction pads:
1) Couple up AKS 3004
2) Open Stabiliser lever (Fig. 5/Item1).
3) Close Stabiliser lever until resistance is
felt (ie friction pads are in contact with the
ball but not yet under pressure).
4) If the arrow on the arm (Fig. 5/Item 4) is
before or on the marked area (Fig. 5/Item
2) the friction pads are still as new (See
A)
5) The arrow on the arm should lie between
the marked area on the soft dock (See B)
6) If the arrow on the plate reaches or
passes the marked area on the soft dock
then the friction pads need replacing
(See C).
It is not necessary to adjust the friction pads.
Fig 5

3-4
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
Fig 6
Manoeuvring operation
For easier manoeuvring (on campsites etc),
pull the stabiliser lever to the ‘up’ position.
Please do not use the stabiliser lever as an
manoeuvring handle. Please use the handles
on the Caravan or fit the AL-KO manoeuvring
handle to your jockey wheel (available
separately).
1) During opening or
closing, the AKS
must only be
operated by one
person.
2) Press stabiliser
lever down by hand
force only DO NOT
use your foot or an
extension bar, this
will damage the
components (Fig.
6).
3) When opening or
closing the
stabiliser lever,
please ensure your
hand does not
touch the coupling
handle - you may
accidentally trap
your fingers! (Fig. 6).

3-5
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
BREAKAWAY CABLE
The law requires that any trailer with a
MTPLM (GVW) exceeding 750 kg must have
a braking system and it must work. If such a
trailer becomes detached from the tow vehicle
then these brakes must be applied
automatically by way of the breakaway cable.
This breakaway cable is an important part of
the management of the braking system and
when the trailer is built the braking system is
part of the certification process for the safe
use of the trailer - so any replacement parts
must be equivalent to the original parts fitted.
There are two types of breakaway cable in
use in the UK. One uses a spring clip (one of
the Al-Ko versions, the other uses a Karabiner
clip (available from Al-Ko and BPW).
Looking at the two clips it is easy to see that
there is a difference.
The spring clip type is designed to be hooked
back over the breakaway cable when it is
fitted to the tow vehicle and must always be
used this way.
The Karabiner type is designed to be secured
onto a mounting point on the two vehicle, it
does not need to pass back over the cable to
secure it in place (but can if necessary).
So how should the breakaway cable be
secured to the tow vehicle? In the absence of
specific advice from the manufacturer/supplier
follow these simple guidelines:
Fixed tow ball systems
The cable with spring clip should be passed
behind the towbar assembly (where cable
length is sufficient) and then clipped back on
itself. The cable should be in as straight a
path as possible to ensure correct operation.
Where there is insufficient cable length then
the cable should pass around the base of the
tow ball and then be clipped back on itself.
Detachable tow bar systems
Vehicles with a detachable tow bar system
may have a securing point provided on the
tow bar assembly. This securing point should
be part of the towbar assembly fitted to the
tow vehicle but this securing point may not be
large enough to allow the spring clip type
fastener to pass completely through, do not
be tempted to clip onto the securing point
directly. Where this is the case, or where
there is no hooking point provided, then the
cable should pass around the tow ball
assembly and then clipped back on itself.
Where the towbar provides a securing point
and a Karabiner type fastening is provided,
then this can be secured to the securing
point. Make sure that it is completely closed
to ensure that it operates correctly.
Be careful to check that the cable does not
sag so much that it could drag on the ground
- if it does it may become damaged or catch
on debris on the road surface. Also ensure
that the cable is long enough to allow for any
sharp turns, otherwise the cable may
inadvertently apply the trailer brakes and this
could cause damage to the brake
components.
Remember to check the breakaway cable for
any signs of damage. The cable is designed
to apply the trailer brakes and then snap
once the brakes are applied so any damage
may result in premature failure and the
brakes not being properly applied.
And ... remember ... Many inadvertent
detachments occur at low speed - normally
as a result of the hitch head not being
engaged properly onto the tow ball assembly.
A low speed detachment may not result in the
breakaway cable operating properly - so
ALWAYS check that the head is fully secure
before setting off.
Karabiner type clip
Spring type clip

3-6
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD

4-1
TOWING AND DRIVING
Fig 4-1
TOWING AND DRIVING
REVERSING
It is advisable to have a second person
assisting when reversing the caravan.
Start practising by choosing a left-hand bend
for ease. Reverse slowly; turning the wheel,
initially the opposite way to the direction you
want the caravan to go.
Now the front of the caravan is nudged out
and is moving the rear in the intended
direction. Take care not to hit the caravan
with the car!
Midways through the manoeuvre, when the
caravan is correctly angled, reduce speed to
a crawl and gradually apply opposite lock.
Make the car follow the caravan round then
finally straighten up.
Please note: Proficiency at reversing can
only be achieved with practice.
SPEED LIMITS
•Always adhere to the speed limits in
force.
•When national speed limits apply, when
towing on a single carriageway, the
speed limit is reduced to 50mph. Dual
carriageway and motorways, the speed
limit is reduced to 60mph.
SETTING OFF
(i) Pull away smoothly in the towing
vehicle. Allow more engine speed to
produce the power to move the
additional weight of the caravan.
(ii) Avoid wear and tear on the clutch and
transmission by taking extra care not to
‘ride’ the clutch.
(iii) Change gears smoothly. Try not to jerk
the clutch.
CARAVAN HANDLING
(i) Allow for the caravan being wider than
the car. Ensure you have a clear view
to the rear. This may require the fitting
of extended mirrors for towing your
caravan.
(ii) Give yourself more room when
cornering to ensure your caravan
wheels do not strike the kerb.
(iii) When passing other vehicles, allow
more than the normal clearance for
driving solo.
(iv) Allow longer to obtain a fast enough
speed to pass other vehicles.
(v) Allow for the vehicle being twice its
normal length. Do not suddenly swing
out.
(vi) Carry out all manoeuvres as smoothly
as possible.
(vii) Use the wing mirror to check the
caravan has clearly passed other road
users when overtaking and changing
lanes.
(viii) Adverse weather conditions may affect
the steering and braking characteristics
of your caravan.

4-2
TOWING AND DRIVING
MOTORWAY DRIVING
Important Points:
1. Caravans may not be towed in the
outside lane of a three or four lane
motorway.
2. Reduce speed:
a) In high or cross winds
b) Downhill
c) In poor visibility
3. High sided vehicles cause air buffeting,
so extra care must be taken when
passing or being passed. As much space
as possible should be given to avoid the
drag created by the high sided vehicle.
4. When going uphill, change gear in good
time. If your car is running short of power
or is behind a slower vehicle, keep well
into the nearside and out of the way of
other vehicles. Remember that some hills
can be ascended with relative ease often
pose an unexpected challenge if you
come to a standstill in traffic and then
have to re-start from scratch.
5. When going downhill, take extra care to
ensure you do not gain speed. This can
be avoided by changing down a gear and
reducing speed as you approach the
slope. Don’t leave this gear change too
late. Using low gears throughout the
descent will reduce the strain on the car’s
brakes. For automatics, you may need to
manually change to a lower gear in
anticipation of the effect caused by the
gradient change.
TOWING COVERS
We do not recommend that you tow with
covers on as it can obscure the road lights
fitted.
Tyre and wheel checks
Tyres are an essential part of the safe use of
your caravan and it is important that they are
properly maintained to make sure that they
do what they are intended to do - carry the
load and grip the road as well as bringing you
and your caravan to a safe stop.
So how do we know we have the correct
tyres for our caravan and how do we know
that they are still safe to use?
When your caravan was first manufactured
the tyres fitted were chosen because they
would carry the load that the caravan was
designed to carry.
Note that it may be possible to increase the
maximum technically permissible laden mass
(MTPLM) of the caravan depending on the
capacity of the chassis but it is essential that
the tyres are checked to verify that they are
suitable for the extra loading if this option is
taken. If their loading capacity is less than the
rating necessary for the increased MTPLM,
they will need to be replaced.
Detailed information on the load and speed
rating is marked on the side of the tyre.
Looking at the tyre not only tells us that they
are the right ones for the leisure vehicle, it
also tells us how old the tyre is. It is strongly
recommended that tyres are renewed when
they are five years old and certainly by seven
years. The tyre data is only shown on one
side, so it may be necessary to check the
information on the hidden side.
It is unlikely that caravan tyres will wear out
before they reach the end of their
recommended life, but all tyres deteriorate
over time due to the effects of ultra-violet
radiation and atmospheric ozone, so whilst
the tyre may still seem to be in good
condition with plenty of tread wear left, there
is an increased risk of sudden failure and
they need to be changed due to ageing.
Where the recommended tyre pressure is 50
psi or more, extra care should be observed
as running at such high pressure can make
them more susceptible to wear and damage.
Many of the tyres checked out on the road in
Police checks are in a dangerous condition
and using tyres like this increases the
potential for a tyre failure / blow out or other
incident and could result in a fine and penalty
points being added to your licence.
Check your tyres for cuts / lumps, crazing
and cracks as well as wear (both on the
outside and inside walls) - don’t forget to
check the pressures when the tyres are cold.
For further information about tyres see
www.tyresafe.org/tyre-safety/caravan-tyre-
safety

5-1
ARRIVING ON SITE
ARRIVING ON SITE
CHECK SITE REGULATIONS
On arrival at a site, you should always check
the site regulations. This will help avoid any
unnecessary conflict with site management
and other site users.
WARNING: Care has to be taken to
prevent grounding when traversing ramps
or other ground obstacles.
SELECTING A PITCH
Carefully select where you wish to place your
caravan. The site should be as level as
possible, preferably not under or near trees,
well drained and away from possible boggy
areas. Consider how you will move the
caravan when it is time to leave the site. On
sloping ground it is better to pitch facing
downhill, especially during wet weather.
SIDE-TO-SIDE LEVELLING
A quick glance at your pitch should tell you if
you are likely to need side to side levelling
i.e. levelling across the axle. On uneven
ground lateral levelling is accomplished by
the use of a leveller jack or ramp and a spirit
level placed ‘across’ the caravan floor (not
supplied).
Leveller Jack
Place the leveller jack, folded flat, in front of
the wheel needed to be raised to level the
axle. Tow the caravan onto the leveller jack
and adjust the height until the spirit level
shows that the caravan is laterally level.
Ramp
(i) Reverse onto your pitch about 30cm
(12") further back than you wish to end
up.
(ii) Then place the levelling ramp in front of
the wheel that needs to be raised.
(iii) Place a spirit level parallel to the axle on
the A-frame or just inside the caravan
door.
It helps to have two people at this point. One
should drive the car very slowly forward
moving the caravan wheel up the ramp, and
the other should indicate when the spirit level
bubble is in the middle.
Whichever method you use, and once level:
(i) Apply the caravan handbrake and chock
the caravan wheel if necessary.
(ii) Lower the jockey wheel to ground level
before unhitching. (See index
uncoupling)
(iii) If necessary use a load spreader, such
as a big foot or alternative suitable
device.
You should then park your car, usually next to
the caravan furthest away from the door side.
Please note: On upward facing pitches when
the hydraulically damped drawbar of the hitch
becomes fully extended, it will be necessary
to compress the drawbar slightly in order to
achieve a clean’ unhitching. With the caravan
brake on, reverse the towing vehicle about
2.54cm (1") to release hitch lock tension and
using the jockey wheel adjustment, unhitch
the caravan as previously described.
FRONT & BACK LEVELLING
This should be done only when the lateral
levelling is complete.
(i) Place the spirit level pointing front to
back just inside the caravan door or on
the A frame.
(ii) Then raise or lower the jockey wheel
until the caravan is horizontally level.
Please note: If there is a significant front to
back slope, you may need to place a block
under the jockey wheel.
(iii) Next, wind down the corner steadies
onto load spreaders (blocks of wood a
minimum of 15.25cm (6") square or ‘Big
Foot’ steady attachments) until they are
firmly set against the ground.
Please note: It is possible on very uneven
sites that when fully extended blocks may be
required under the corner steadies to achieve
this. It is important that the caravan is
correctly levelled to ensure the correct
working of the refrigerator, cooker etc.
(iv) Now that your caravan is level, place the
caravan step in front of the door
ensuring that it is stable and safe to use.