Xplore 304 User manual

CONTENTS-1
CONTENTS
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION ........ 1-1
Erwin Hymer Group UK
Technical Approvals ................................ 1-2
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
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
Parking on a Reverse-Sloping Site
or Steep Hill ............................................ 5-1
Entering and Exiting the Caravan ........... 5-1
Side-To-Side Levelling
(all except Buccaneer) ............................ 5-2
Leveller Jack ........................................... 5-2
Ramp ...................................................... 5-2
Front & Back Levelling
(all except buccaneer) ............................. 5-2
The E&P Hydraulics Levelsystem
(Buccaneer only) ..................................... 5-3
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
Gas Regulator ......................................... 6-4
Auto Changeover Gas Regulator
(Where Fitted) ......................................... 6-5
High Pressure Gas Hoses ...................... 6-6
Whale High Flow Pump with Intelligent
Control® .................................................. 6-7
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM .......................... 7-1
12v Power Supply ................................... 7-1
Battery Installation .................................. 7-1
Battery Maintenance ............................... 7-1
Generators / Charger .............................. 7-1
230v Power Supply ................................. 7-2
Mains Unit ............................................... 7-2
Resetting the RCD .................................. 7-2
Automatic Charging System ................... 7-2
Internal Lights ......................................... 7-2
Maximum Power Ratings for
Internal Lights
(Where Fitted) ......................................... 7-2
Connecting a Solar Panel
and/or Satellite Dish
(Where fitted) .......................................... 7-3
External Solar Panel Connection
(Where fitted) .......................................... 7-3
External Satellite TV Connection
(Where Fitted) ......................................... 7-3
HOW TO USE YOUR CARAVAN’S
EQUIPMENT ........................................... 8-1
Electrical Control Panels ......................... 8-1
Control Panel (Xplore) ............................ 8-2
Control Panel (Avante/Casita) ................ 8-3
iVan Control Panel .................................. 8-3
Control paneL
(Affinity/Capiro) ....................................... 8-4
MY2023 EHG Caravan Handbook

CONTENTS-2
CONTENTS
Control Panel (Crusader/Camino
and Buccaneer) ....................................... 8-4
Whale Heating System (Xplore) .............. 8-5
Whale Space Heater - User Operation ... 8-6
Whale Water Heater - User Operation .... 8-7
Whale Heating System -
Troubleshooting ...................................... 8-8
Whale Space Heater - Reset Button
Location (all other models) ...................... 8-9
Whale Heating System
(Avante/Casita) ..................................... 8-13
Ivan Control Panel -
Instructions for Use ............................... 8-15
Troubleshooting .................................... 8-19
Whale iVan Control Panel -
Water Heater ......................................... 8-21
Operating Instructions - Drain Valve ..... 8-24
Winterising ............................................ 8-25
Whale iVan Control Panel ..................... 8-26
Winterising ............................................ 8-27
Alde Heating (3030 Control Panel)
(Affinity/Capiro/Crusader/Camino/
Buccaneer) ............................................ 8-28
Turning the boiler On and Off ................ 8-28
Status Screen ....................................... 8-28
Set the desired Temperature ................. 8-29
Hot Water .............................................. 8-29
Energy sources ..................................... 8-30
Heating with Electricity .......................... 8-30
Heating with Gas ................................... 8-30
High altitude Mode ................................ 8-30
Settings Menu ....................................... 8-31
Glycol Fluid ........................................... 8-32
Refill the heating system with
Glycol Liquid ......................................... 8-32
Service Information & Reset ................. 8-33
Oven (all ranges) .................................. 8-34
Safety .................................................... 8-34
Before using the Appliance: .................. 8-35
Dual Fuel only: ...................................... 8-35
Oven shelf: (Applies to K1520 only) ...... 8-36
Cooling system: (Applies to K1520 only) 8-36
Maintenance and Cleaning ................... 8-36
Troubleshooting .................................... 8-37
Triplex (Xplore Only) ............................. 8-38
Use of the Burners ................................ 8-38
Use of the Electric Hotplate
(if applicable) ......................................... 8-39
Use of the Grill ...................................... 8-39
Use of the Oven .................................... 8-40
Safe Cooking ........................................ 8-40
Temperature Control ............................. 8-42
Use of the Burners ................................ 8-43
K1520 (All ranges except Xplore) ......... 8-43
Use of the Electric Hotplate
(if applicable) ......................................... 8-44
Use of the Grill ...................................... 8-44
Use of the Oven .................................... 8-45
Safe Cooking ........................................ 8-45
Temperature control .............................. 8-46
Refrigerator ........................................... 8-47
Setting the Cooling Capacity ................. 8-47
Using the Refrigerator Door .................. 8-47
Notes on Storing Food .......................... 8-47
Defrosting the Refrigerator .................... 8-48
Positioning the Refrigerator Door
in the Winter Position ............................ 8-48
Fault Messages and Signal Tones ........ 8-48
Cleaning and Maintenance ................... 8-48
Cleaning the Gas Burner ...................... 8-48
Microwave (Where Fitted) ..................... 8-49
Battery Charger ..................................... 8-50
Smoke Alarm ......................................... 8-50
Carbon Monoxide Alarm ....................... 8-52
Thetford C-260 Cassette Toilet Range .. 8-56
Preparing for Use (Standard) ................ 8-56
Preparing for Use with
Optional Features ................................. 8-56
Using the Toilet (Standard).................... 8-58
Using the Toilet with Optional Features. 8-58
Emptying ............................................... 8-58
Emptying with Optional Features .......... 8-58
Cleaning and Maintenance ................... 8-59
Toilet Bowl ............................................. 8-59
Waste Holding Tank .............................. 8-59
Cleaning and Maintenance for
Optional Features ................................. 8-60
Winter Operation ................................... 8-60
Storage ................................................. 8-60
Toilet Unit Malfunctions ......................... 8-60
Rooflights .............................................. 8-62
The Omivent (12v) Rooflight
(Where Fitted) ....................................... 8-62
The Heki 2 Rooflight (Where fitted) ....... 8-62
Midi Heki Rooflight (Where Fitted) ........ 8-63
MPK Rooflight (Where Fitted) ............... 8-63
Stargazer Rooflight (Where fitted) ........ 8-64
Windows ............................................... 8-65
Polyplastic Window Opening ................ 8-65
Blinds & Flyscreens .............................. 8-65
Door Flyscreen ...................................... 8-65
Shower .................................................. 8-66
Taps ...................................................... 8-66

CONTENTS-3
CONTENTS
Gas Locker Door
(Pivoting Door) ...................................... 8-66
Gas Locker Door
(Crusader/Camino & Buccaneer) .......... 8-66
Internal Doors ....................................... 8-67
Toilet/Shower Room Doors ................... 8-67
Paddle Latch (Where Fitted) ................. 8-67
Concealed Latch (Where Fitted) ........... 8-67
High Level Locker
(Crusader/Camino) ............................... 8-68
High Level Locker
(Buccaneer) .......................................... 8-68
Magnetic Catches (where fitted) ........... 8-68
Room Divider(where fitted) ................... 8-68
Bed Make-up ......................................... 8-69
Removable Drawers ............................. 8-82
Front Wrap Round Seating (Option) ..... 8-82
Lift Up Bed Extensions (Where Fitted) .. 8-83
Radio with MP3 Connectivity ................ 8-84
Teleco TV Aerial .................................... 8-84
How to use your TV Aerial ..................... 8-86
Digital TV set-up Guide ......................... 8-86
Connect Aerial and Power .................... 8-86
Troubleshooting Guide .......................... 8-86
Protect - Autowatch Alarm System
(Where fitted) ........................................ 8-88
Basic Operation Arming the System ..... 8-88
Disarming the System ........................... 8-88
Panic Alarm ........................................... 8-88
Emergency Disarm ............................... 8-88
Silent Arm and Disarm .......................... 8-88
Sensors ................................................. 8-88
Passive Infra Red Sensor ..................... 8-88
Al-Ko Trailer - Control ........................... 8-89
Whale Easi-Slide Socket ....................... 8-90
Safety Information ................................. 8-90
Mobile Internet (Option) ........................ 8-91
Pop-up Wireless Charging and
USB Device (Where Fitted) ................... 8-94
SECURITY .............................................. 9-1
Caravan Theft ......................................... 9-1
Tracker Retrieve ...................................... 9-1
CRIS - The central Registration and
Identification Scheme .............................. 9-1
Al-Ko Secure Wheel Lock (Option) ......... 9-2
Window & Chassis Marking .................... 9-4
Electronic Tagging ................................... 9-4
CARE OF YOUR CARAVAN ................ 10-1
Exterior Cleaning .................................. 10-1
Wheels .................................................. 10-1
Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastic
(GRP - Where Applicable) ..................... 10-1
Acrylic Windows .................................... 10-1
Window Blinds & Flyscreens ................. 10-2
Winterisation/Storage ............................ 10-2
ABS - A Frame Cover, Wheel Spats
& Panels ................................................ 10-2
Interior Walls ......................................... 10-2
Furniture ................................................ 10-2
Cooking Equipment ............................... 10-2
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 .................................. 10-4
Water Systems - Sterilisation ................ 10-4
Thetford Toilet ....................................... 10-4
Chassis Mounted Spare Wheel Carrier 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
Brake Drum/Hub Assembly ................... 10-7
Jockey Wheel Assembly ....................... 10-7
Operating Instructions ........................... 10-8
Braking System Adjustment ................ 10-10
STORAGE ............................................ 11-1
Long Term & Winter Storage .................. 11-1
Caravan Covers ..................................... 11-1
Battery Maintenance Storage ................ 11-1
CARAVAN WARRANTY COVER ......... 12-1
Non Warranty Repairs ........................... 12-3
Remedial Work ...................................... 12-4
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

CONTENTS-4
CONTENTS
WIRING DIAGRAMS ............................ 14-1
GENERAL QUESTIONS ...................... 15-1
GLOSSARY .......................................... 16-1
SERVICE DOCUMENTS ...................... 17-1
NOTIFICATION OF CHANGE OF
OWNERSHIP ........................................ 18-1
NOTIFICATION OF CHANGE TO
NAME AND ADDRESS ........................ 19-1
INDEX ................................................... 20-1

1-1
INTRODUCTION
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on selecting your new
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. Erwin Hymer Group UK
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 new caravan is designed to be towed by
a normal motor car.
If you intend to tow it with a pick-up type
vehicle, passenger derived van or a 4x4 type
vehicle, additional care should be exercised
because of the potential for a harder rear
suspension on such vehicles which may
impose excessive loads onto the caravan.
You may also have to adjust your driving
style over rough terrain and particular
attention should be given to the height of the
tow ball in relation to the caravan coupling.
Ref: (United Nations Economic Commission
for Europe) UNECE R55 states that the
centre of the towball should be between
350mm and 420mm above the ground level.
Your new caravan should not be towed by a
commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle
weight in excess of 3500 kgs.
When selecting a towing vehicle, it is
recommended that you consult the Caravan
Towing Guide 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 Erwin Hymer Group UK 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 Erwin
Hymer Group UK 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.
An Erwin Hymer Group UK 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 Erwin Hymer
Group UK.
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
IMPORTANT: Register your vehicle with
us
In order to fully protect your valuable
purchase, we would kindly ask you to take
a few moments to complete our online
Warranty Registration.
Registering your vehicle will ensure that we
always have the most accurate and up-to-
date contact information and all of your
vehicle details to hand, should you ever need
our assistance.

1-2
INTRODUCTION
Your feedback is incredibly important to us
and helps shape the future of our leisure
vehicles. We would be delighted if you would
also complete our accompanying online
Customer Questionnaire.
Both our Registration form and our
Customer Questionnaire can be found on
our Homepage: www.elddis.co.uk
Please note that this is not for warranty
purposes. Warranty registration must be
done by the selling retailer.
Model Year Designation
All Touring caravans manufactured by Erwin
Hymer Group UK are designated by their
model year. For example, 2022 Model year
runs from 1st September 2021 to 31st August
2022.
Erwin Hymer Group UK Technical
Approvals
All Erwin Hymer Group UK Caravans have
been European Commission Whole Vehicle
Type Approved.
In order to ensure your new caravan is safe
to use, Erwin Hymer Group UK are members
of and have been inspected by the following
bodies.
NCC who operated a certification scheme to
ensure compliance with the European safety
standards for caravans.
Erwin Hymer Group UK has also obtained
ISO9001:2015 accreditation and this is
periodically audited.

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 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 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 a suitably qualified electrician.
Never use portable cooking or heating
equipment inside your caravan. Do not
use your fitted cooking equipment as
heating at any time.
(vi) 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.
(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 Erwin Hymer Group UK
Retailer to arrange for them to check
the gas system.
(viii) Never exceed your caravans Maximum
Technical Permissible Laden Mass.
(see Caravan Towing Vehicle Weight
Ratio).
(ix) 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.
(x) Pull out/lift up worktop extensions,
where fitted, are only designed to take
a maximum weight of 6kgs.
(xi) When your caravan is connected to
your towing vehicle it should be level
or slightly nose down.
(xii) 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.
(xiii) 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.
(xiv) It is illegal to tow your caravan
whilst it is occupied.
(xv) If your caravan is fitted with a lift up or
high level bunk it is designed for a
maximum weight of 11 stone and is not
suitable for children under 6 years old
without supervision.
(xvi) Do not leave children under 14 years
of age unattended in your caravan.
(xvii) 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.
(xviii) Where a dividing curtain is fitted or
provided, please ensure when not in
use it is stored in the position furthest
away from any cooking equipment or
in the storage housing if provided.

2-2
GENERAL SAFETY
VENTILATION
All caravans manufactured by Erwin Hymer
Group UK are ventilated at both high and low
level in accordance with BSEN 721 Safety
Ventilation.
High-Level Ventilation
This is mainly 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.
High level ventilation may also be provided
by additional fitted mushroom vents.
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 within the same compartment.
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
It is recommended that one dry powder fire
extinguisher complying with EN 3-7 of at
least 1kg capacity or equivalent is provided
by the main door and a fire blanket next to
the cooker. Familiarise yourself with the
instruction on your fire extinguisher and the
local fire precaution arrangements.
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.
(iv) Retreat to a safe distance.
Fire Retardant Foams
All caravans are equipped with Polyurethane
(PU) foam which are combustion modified
foam cushions, mattresses and fire retardent
fabric. All furnishings and fabrics used by
Erwin Hymer Group UK 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.
Please note: Do not work under the caravan
unless the corner steadies are down and the
axle is supported.

2-3
GENERAL SAFETY
YOUR CARAVAN PAYLOAD
EXPLAINED
Definitions
Plated maximum technical
permissible laden mass (PMTPLM)
As specified by Erwin Hymer Group UK 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
Portable water container (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 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,
* Tow bar maximum nose weight
* The caravan’s maximum nose weight.
Please refer to the caravan weight
plate for this information.
(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.
(v) Your driving licence category determines
the weight you can tow. Please refer to
gov.uk for the most up to date
information.
(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 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. All
overhead locker catches are for the
purpose of keeping the overhead lockers
closed and not to stop items from falling
out.
(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.
(xii) Ensure the hob lid is in the closed
position.

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) Raise 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.
(v) 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, as
they 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).
Coupling
• Pull the coupling handle (Fig. 3/Item 1)
up in the direction of arrow. The coupling
mechanism has an open position ie. as
Fig 1
1 2
Fig 2 Fig 3

3-3
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
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
Fig 5
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.

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, the
other uses a Karabiner clip.
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 tow 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.
When the breakaway cable is attached,
check to ensure:
a) that the cable cannot snag in use on the
trailer coupling head, jockey wheel, or
any accessory e.g. a stabiliser, bumper
shield, cycle carrier etc.
b) that there is sufficient slack in the cable
to allow the towing vehicle and trailer to
articulate fully without the cable ever
becoming taut and applying the brakes.
Where a designated attachment point is
provided on the towbar:
Either
a) Pass the cable
through the
attachment point
and clip it back on
itself (Fig. 1).
Or:
b) Attach the clip
directly to the
designated point
(Fig. 2). This
alternative must
be specifically
permitted by the
trailer
manufacturer since the clip may not be
sufficiently strong for use in this way.
Karabiner type clip
Spring type clip
Fig. 1
Fig. 2

3-6
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
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.
Where NO designated attachment point is
provided on the towbar:
Fixed ball
Loop the cable around the neck of the
towball. If you fit the cable like this, use a
single loop only (see figs 3A and 3B).
Detachable ball
You must seek guidance on procedure from
the towbar manufacturer or supplier.
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.
Fig. 3A Fig. 3B

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) Ensure you have an adequate view of
the road behind you. You must fit
towing mirrors if your caravan is wider
than the rear of your tow vehicle.
(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 they 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.
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.
PARKING ON A REVERSE-SLOPING
SITE OR STEEP HILL
For successful parking on a reverse slope or
steep hill, the operator need only apply the
handbrake with one hand while gently but
purposely inching the caravan a small
distance backwards with the other.
CAUTION: Never enter the caravan without
first lowering the four corner steadies with the
brace provided. It is recommended that
power tools such as impact wrench or drill
should not be used to lower corner steadies.
Corner steadies should not be used as a
jack. Take care not to lift the caravan wheels.
ENTERING AND EXITING THE
CARAVAN
Due to the height to the entrance door, it is
strongly recommended that you use a step to
enter and exit your caravan. A suitable step is
provided with your caravan and can be found
within your kit box. Please ensure your step
is placed in front of the entrance door and is
on sound and level ground before use.

5-2
ARRIVING ON SITE
SIDE-TO-SIDE LEVELLING
(ALL EXCEPT BUCCANEER)
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 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
(ALL EXCEPT BUCCANEER)
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.