Complete guide to heavy towing (GVM, GCM & ATM explained) | Auto Expert John Cadogan

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 มิ.ย. 2019
  • This is the complete guide to heavy towing with a 4X4 wagon like a Landcruiser or a 4X4 ute like a Ranger.
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    In this report: The definitions and what they mean:
    * Tare weight
    * Kerb weight
    * GVM - gross vehicle mass
    * ATM - aggregate trailer mass
    * Towball download
    * GCM - gross combination mass
    * Payload capacity
    I also discuss the towing 'arms race' in which people think it's OK to tow a 3500kg trailer with a vehicle that weights 2500kg (ish) - and this is often a very bad idea, in my view.
    I'll talk you through the payload limitations in the common vehicles and also discuss how you can actually measure your critical weights using a public weighbridge, to ensure you're not driving overloaded - which has important safety, legal and insurance implications.
    Also discussed: GVM upgrades and warranty, and the effect of adding accessories on your payload capacity.
    Toyota heavy towing guide: toyotamanuals.com.au/images/t...
    Pedders GVM upgrade details: www.pedders.com.au/kits/gvm-u...
    Zone RV $190k off-road van: www.zonerv.com.au/summit-series/
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ความคิดเห็น • 688

  • @brendancarter5846
    @brendancarter5846 4 ปีที่แล้ว +160

    to play it safe i will now leave my kids at home when we go camping thanks john peace at last!

    • @appletree8441
      @appletree8441 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Your main problem was having them. You might be able to get a couple of bucks for them.

    • @brendancarter5846
      @brendancarter5846 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      @@appletree8441 Im sure your parents would agree with that!

    • @atticstattic
      @atticstattic 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@brendancarter5846
      He's leaving them behind as well...

    • @spackle42
      @spackle42 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@appletree8441 Remember that children are like cars: They're worth more as parts.

    • @novicehomebrewer7811
      @novicehomebrewer7811 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Lol

  • @captainbarnicle8548
    @captainbarnicle8548 4 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Every husband that’s buying a camper trailer and has a wife in his ear saying I want a 2.5t-3.5t caravan with toilet shower and indoor kitchen and indoor lounge room needs to be sat down, tied to a chair and made to watch this!!

    • @fortheseventhtime6811
      @fortheseventhtime6811 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Confucius once say: Man who takes woman camping has one in-tent

    • @rich7447
      @rich7447 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      At that point buy a bus based class A RV.

    • @PrincessAelaIV
      @PrincessAelaIV 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I know plenty of husband's pushing for all that sh*t plus more...

  • @petekay67
    @petekay67 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    After watching some of John's videos I ended up buying an 1800kg ATM caravan, 16 foot with ensuite etc etc, pulled by my 2017 Pajero. Well within all limits. It's a nice feelng knowing that my safety margin is bigger than all our friends Taj Mahals😅. Many thanks John👍

  • @robbvk6es
    @robbvk6es 4 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    Thankyou John. The trinity of videos on towing should be required viewing by every grey nomad and 4X4 junky. If it were up to me, towing a trailer would require an examinable endorsement on the basic drivers licence.

  • @adamheapy8603
    @adamheapy8603 4 ปีที่แล้ว +58

    Go down to any caravan park on the east coast and the LC200 is the rig of choice. Most are sporting the ARB catalogue of parts and ALL blindly over weight. HOPEFULLY this gets shared amongst the grey nomad fraternity. Great episode JC

    • @shreckm6470
      @shreckm6470 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @Mojo You obviously did not listen to anything he said.

    • @Mixos_place
      @Mixos_place 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I was in mildura last week and heaps of LC and 3+ tonne vans. These where all families and not the gray nomads.I am amazed by how they back these things in they are like 20+ feet..

    • @darylephillips6778
      @darylephillips6778 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Mixos_place Easy I have a 25 footer

  • @gallis0707
    @gallis0707 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    Finding this information explained in a format easy to understand has been almost impossible.
    Thanks John, extremely valuable.

  • @mutualbeard
    @mutualbeard 4 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    Thanks John. Engineering facts beats "common sense" any day.

  • @peterferguson248
    @peterferguson248 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Good presentation. There is one additional engineering constraint that most seem to ignore and that is maximum allowable axle loads, particularly rear axle. These are incredibly easy to overload and I rarely hear anyone reference them.

    • @fredscheerle7592
      @fredscheerle7592 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      There's a couple other over looked, Tow ball, for a long time the highest rating was 2500kg look at used car yard's and see all tow type vehicle they remove the ball from the hitch and latter it in Black gup, Tires on that 4x4 are they the original Supplied ones or recommended sizing, I don't think so, Tires all weight the same, Right.

  • @4G12
    @4G12 4 ปีที่แล้ว +40

    Now THAT's an Iron man T-shirt.

    • @davidgillettuk9638
      @davidgillettuk9638 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      4G12
      Only for those that get it......

    • @4G12
      @4G12 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@davidgillettuk9638
      ROFL🤣!

  • @billroach2393
    @billroach2393 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    With regard to the cost of 400 nights accommodation compared to the outlay for an expensive caravan....you're forgetting that the caravan will have a excellent resale value, so the net cost is much less than spending 400 nights (WITH THE MASSES) in various motels. Some of us like to get away from the crowds.
    On the subject of the tow vehicle choice, I agree with you 100%. I own a 3,500 ATM Bushtracker and tow it with a Chev Silverado with a GVM of 5,171kg and a GCM (allowable) of 11,113kg. My actual GCM is around 8,250kg.
    Apparently around 80% of these Bushtrackers are owned/towed by people with 200 series Landcruisers and on the occasions that I've voiced my concerns (along the lines of your video) I get verbally walloped by all of those owners. A typical response is along these lines: "I've been towing this set-up for thousands of kilometers and never had an issue" etc. I say they've just been lucky.

    • @JimmyStewpot
      @JimmyStewpot 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Toyota drivers are like vegans... You can't tell them anything

    • @mcduck5
      @mcduck5 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      When the hans device was being introduced to nascar Dale ernheart senior pushed back saying that he had hit the wall hundreds of times and hadn't broken his kneck yet. About a month later he hit a wall and broke his neck. Because he hadn't broken his neck untill he had...

  • @georgesimmons2946
    @georgesimmons2946 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    He is correct in the first part of this towing guide. He is always talking about maximum weights were in reality most people don't tow these so called Taj Mahals around and saying they cost $190,000 is silly. The average van around the max weight are around $100,000 or less. On the Toyota LC 200 with 300kg on the towball and it's rare to have 3 people, most touring around are couples and in my case with the wife it's only 140kg, so there's 100kg more for the car. Now with that 300kg on the towball now you can take 200kg from your car and put that in van, and your van will be still under GVM, so now your car GVM has gone back his 260kg now with the 100kg I saved, so you can leave that 200kg in your LC 200 and all will be good.

  • @skyline3694
    @skyline3694 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is my favourite AND in my view the most important video John has made, and to think he did this for free. Keep it up John, this video will literally save lives.

  • @BenMitro
    @BenMitro 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    "You aren't getting away from it all, you are taking it all with you" - Classic Cardogan!

  • @karlbartelt3939
    @karlbartelt3939 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Thanks John, all my late night searches for ATM videos have giving me quite a different perspective on load displacement, your detailed explaination is far more fitting for the handing of my big loads.

    • @dougie8010
      @dougie8010 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hahaha was intrigued as to who would broach the subject!

    • @karlbartelt3939
      @karlbartelt3939 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@dougie8010 I love the history of ATM th-cam.com/video/cYWHqha2wfk/w-d-xo.html "Vaccum driven Suction"

    • @karlbartelt3939
      @karlbartelt3939 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @tone167 Never go ATV either!

    • @fortheseventhtime6811
      @fortheseventhtime6811 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      What’s the maximum allowable ATM anyway?

  • @warrenburke5346
    @warrenburke5346 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    The best explained video on weight related matters. I’ve watched that many and this is hands down the best! Thank you

  • @Excalabur50
    @Excalabur50 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Quite simply a brilliant video John!

  • @Ozgrade3
    @Ozgrade3 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    What John says about buying a truck (RAM, Silverado, F Series etc) is on the money. The difference between towing a 3500kg van with a Ranger compared to doing it with a Silverado is staggering. The Silverado has 6.6 litres of diesel torque, but most important, it has the wheelbase that makes it stable as a tow vehicle. A white knuckle trip in a Ranger becomes a relaxing drive in the Silverado. It really doesn't know a 3500 trailer is there (it can tow 7000 kg with ease). Try one, you will never go back. Another thing is the cofg and the side profile of the trailer significantly influences the towing capability. A 3500 kg flat bed trailer caring an excavator is a who different kettle of fish to a 3500 kg 36 foot van that's 3m tall. Take Johns advice, if you really want to tow 3500kg caravan, get a Ford F250/350, RAM 2500/2500 or Silverado 2500/3500. The difference between 2500/3500/4500/5500 models is the max payload. Even better is a 5th wheel style, they are so much more stable than a bumper pull.

    • @exxr
      @exxr 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I've seen some people even suggest the N series trucks as well for the job.

    • @4oh3overside
      @4oh3overside 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ram 3500 Cummings diesel. Problem solved.

  • @alectraproject
    @alectraproject 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Spot on! Now wait for the "Yeh But....."
    Bring on the nuts John.

  • @wolfgangsalinger9560
    @wolfgangsalinger9560 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    The Best presentation on this subject ever. Well Done John.

  • @jacobwhittaker6241
    @jacobwhittaker6241 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    As a Murican! born dude I find these videos very informative even thought they're upside down and in metric.

    • @partymanau
      @partymanau 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      And driving in the wrong side of the road.

    • @badgerpa9
      @badgerpa9 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      For round numbers a metric ton or 1000 kg is 2204 pounds, so 204 more than a ton. A 3/4 ton truck any brand solves the problem.

    • @rich7447
      @rich7447 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@badgerpa9 Big trailers really need 1 ton plus. The DRWs make a huge difference. Assuming the Pa in your name is Pennsylvania.

    • @badgerpa9
      @badgerpa9 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@rich7447 The Pa is as in dad and you do not need Dual rear wheels to tow a ton. A ton is not a big trailer if you know anything about trailering in the USA. A GM 2500 can tow over 15,000 over 7 tons. To me a big trailer is a oversized over weight that combinations over 100,000 pounds a pickup will not handle that. Your big is pretty small at 2000 pounds. A 3/4 ton truck of any of the big 3 can handle the weight he is talking about very easily. The 7700 pounds he is talking about is towable with some full size sport utility vehicles. The tractor trailer you see on the road weighs 12-18,000 and tows 60,000 pounds, it is normal that the tow vehicle weighs less than the weight towed, that is why you put 10-15 % of the weight on the tow vehicle minimum in australia they do as low as 5% which is insane and will cause fishtail in wind or counter steering.

    • @rich7447
      @rich7447 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@badgerpa9 I don't know where you got the ides that towing a ton is a large amount. I have an entry level HD truck (Ram 2500 diesel ) and I routinely town anywhere from 10,000 to 16,000 lbs. BTW: I'm in Maryland right now, but recently moved from Kansas (unfortunately).

  • @Salah.alkhalifa
    @Salah.alkhalifa 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Best video on the YT explaining the towing requirements!
    Greetings from Eastern Arabia!

  • @antone.henderson
    @antone.henderson 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I understood that without my brain leaking out if my ears.
    Thanks for the enlightenment
    Regards Tony Henderson

  • @samatza
    @samatza 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A very thorough explanation, thanks John.

  • @bobfrombrisbane1831
    @bobfrombrisbane1831 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Informative video John, much appreciated. 🚗👍

  • @Electrotract
    @Electrotract 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Best explanation ive seen John. Its scary the amount of dual cabs on the road towing those huge dual axle vans grossly overloaded

  • @glennbenge4387
    @glennbenge4387 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    thank you John. Informative, concise and entertaining, great job!

  • @griff50ify
    @griff50ify 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you John! I recommend this video to all of my friends

  • @markoneill9064
    @markoneill9064 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I love your presentations John, it may be a little tongue in cheek but you are spot on.

  • @billycambridge2394
    @billycambridge2394 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    From someone starting their research, this has been so helpful. Thank you

  • @jennikesich7315
    @jennikesich7315 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks John. GVM’s have been chasing ATM’s and GCM’s around in my head for weeks. Thank you for explaining it all to a novice like me. You’re my hero. You rock.

  • @Splits-man
    @Splits-man 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    So I’ve just watched this for a SECOND TIME! All your videos are great but this is one of the best so far. It’s relevant to us because we are thinking about buying a caravan shortly. We are also considering a fifth wheeler but I imagine that the facts still hold for that. Once again a brilliant video. Many thanks John. 👍

  • @77gravity
    @77gravity 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just got back from Cape York, 7000km in 4 weeks. Ford Ranger packed to the gills, gear and camping stuff for TWO people, basic safety and recovery gear, food and plenty of water. Minimal roof load (solar panels, awning, maxtrax). And we saw HUGE caravans being towed by 4WDs, all with the vehicle also packed to the gills, monster roof-rack loads. There was NO DOUBT in my mind that most of those with big caravans were well over the GVM and GCM limits. Insane.

  • @rexringschott
    @rexringschott 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Fantastically informative. I loved the lengthy rant at the end. From 22:51

  • @Splits-man
    @Splits-man 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Errr....wow! I had no idea about any of that. And I bet I’m not the only one! Thanks. 👍

  • @elantraboy
    @elantraboy 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    As a Truck driver by occupation we have to work within GVM restrictions placed on heavy vehicles predominantly to keep the vehicles within limits to ensure safe travel. I have been looking into just such an issue as I'm looking to go the ute &van option and thus far the Dodge Ram with the optional drive ratio upgrade gives a towing capacity of 4.5 tonnes and GVM of 7.237 kg and costs start at $80k. On paper you could buy the Ram and a van within the cost of just the Landcruiser 200 alone. Also the RAM/ Ford F250 series type vehicles are trucks built primarily for towing with large over engineered chassis and drivetrains and built for the job rather than needing modification to achieve a similar result. Holden made a booboo speccing the Silverado which starts at $125k and only 3500kg capacity, when it is available in the USA like the RAM and F250 with 4500kg GVM's.

    • @horseshoe182
      @horseshoe182 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      thanks ken

    • @shreckm6470
      @shreckm6470 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dont go the 1500 got one and not happy best i can get is 28 L per hundred with 2.8 ton van my y62 Patrol is much better an 7 ton GCM.

    • @rich7447
      @rich7447 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I had an early 1500 Ram and I agree with Shreck about fuel economy (they are also not as durable as the HD Rams). My low output cummins (650 lb ft) Ram is rated at about 6.5t and gets far better fuel economy than the Hemi 1500s especially when towing.

  • @tkhiem
    @tkhiem 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! Gotta love your technical videos John! Beer garden physics are the best kind of physics!

  • @sogno2me
    @sogno2me 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    John, thank you. Best advice! Love all your videos.

  • @longfieldcommercials
    @longfieldcommercials 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    You don’t take bollocks all the time,a very good,informed show, thanks.

  • @pgs8597
    @pgs8597 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    G’day John excellent presentation, one to upset the troops for sure, cause mate it’s got a whopping V8. Interesting topic also is the 5th wheeler and crew cab utes, rear axle capacity and turn table placement behind the rear axle, there’s death on wheels. I’ve been retired now for 5 years I wonder if this has been sorted out yet, must research it.
    Well done, cheers Peter

  • @buzzwinklemoose9853
    @buzzwinklemoose9853 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Superbly done. Thank you John. Wish we more constabulary here in Murka to check these overloaded nitwits.

  • @Roberto.Giuseppe
    @Roberto.Giuseppe 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Cant wait give my mate a copy of the "Toyota basic towing guide" who bought a LC200 for towing!

  • @kevlec1947
    @kevlec1947 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video John. I have posted it on my Jurgens Caravans Chat Page.

  • @fredeverett4340
    @fredeverett4340 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Brilliant! I am of the John school. Don’t stress towing when one can use quality accommodation and support those local communities one passes through. I do have a map of excellent coffee shops.
    I have a small pop up tent, stretchers and portable stove and fridge if I am caught out. Definitely no overloading and it’s easier on the pocket.
    Fred

  • @richardflywills4155
    @richardflywills4155 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Such good advice and very well explained as per usual John 👍👍

  • @TheTsunamijuan
    @TheTsunamijuan 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    You are very much correct about it being easy to surpass your limits. I have long made a habit of checking my weights when towing, via hitting the scales. Your also quite correct about the better trimmed your vehicle is the less room you have. Not to mention people are more likely to abuse it. Since they go "well i bought a top of the line vehicle so it better be able to handle it".

  • @jesseturner9382
    @jesseturner9382 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great vid mate , nice to see an informative effort amongst all the noise , for once !

  • @callumwhite1501
    @callumwhite1501 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hey john,
    I’ve been saying this for years. One thing you forgot to touch on which people forget about is axle loads. When they do GVM upgrades they can’t upgrade the axle load rating most of the time. So even if you upgrade the GVM you most likely will still exceed the axle load when you add the ball weight.

  • @atmm89
    @atmm89 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    great demonstration/ explanations, down to earth, thank you

  • @stephengloor8451
    @stephengloor8451 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks John - just bought a Triton 4WD so this was perfect. I was getting really confused with all the terms.

  • @gazzafloss
    @gazzafloss 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Well done John for pointing out that which should be the bleeding obvious, highlighting the absolute stupidity and false economy of the BIG 4x4 and the BIG towable home away from home, let's hope some will heed the message.

  • @BradGryphonn
    @BradGryphonn 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    27:50 Oh, I hear you, John. I've been put in similar situations over the years. On another note. I knew a person that had a business painting roofs in Western Queensland; some insulating paint of some sort. He had a couple of old, F-250 (around 1970 vintage) utes/trucks with full-body-length roof-racks. He would load Ten 5 metre trestles and as many aluminium planks as he could and then send his boys from CQ coastal city out to the middle of nowhere Western Queensland. Through a bizarre set of circumstances, I had to drive one of these utes about 25km over dirt tracks and then the National highway. It was the craziest drive of my life (I'm 55 and worked in transport or was ibn vehicles for most of it). The top-heavy load combined with 1970s suspension and I think drums all-round made for a somewhat 'sailboat in a cyclone' kind of ride.

  • @petercameron8832
    @petercameron8832 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent, no point in me commenting... you have covered it well!

  • @photosynthesis_by_pete4006
    @photosynthesis_by_pete4006 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is the best T-shirt you had. Pete the CHEMIST LOVE IRON MAN. UOU ROCK. LOVE U

  • @tonypucheta354
    @tonypucheta354 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Much appreciated mate, you have saved me tons of $$ , and gave me a full understanding of what to do, brilliantly explained
    Cheers 👍👍👍

  • @tocsin1977
    @tocsin1977 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Comments were shut off on your weight distribution hitch response, but I wanted to drop a note to say, thank you. Your explanation of the torque forces made total sense, and helped me understand how the heck these work - especially weight distribution hitches like the Andersen, which uses no spring bars. So often, the reviews call it "magic," but I don't remember any of Newton's laws applying to magic. Also, excellent information about potential problems driving through a dip, and disconnecting the WD hitch before navigating obstacles. You've definitely gained a subscriber, and thank you for the logical explanations and understandable diagrams!

  • @ray5789
    @ray5789 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi John ,Laughed most the way through this cause it is so true, We bought the 4x4 with the intent of buying a van, That was 4 years ago, Well we have done lots of travel in Qld but still haven't bought the van, it so easy not to have one in so many ways , Cheers I'am going to happy hour and not towing a heavy van in the morning

  • @Lazbotnik
    @Lazbotnik 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent video. You might have saved some lives with this one!

  • @effortlessly
    @effortlessly 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Intelligent and articulate... and the maths doesn’t lie 👍

  • @frederickburns1739
    @frederickburns1739 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hey John C,
    Great video!!! Problem is the consumer!!! The second biggest investment that most people make is a vehicle; and most never read the OWNERS MANUAL!!!
    I speak from the HEAVY TRUCK INDUSTRY background; I don't care what continent you live on when it comes to RV towing there should be a required drivers license.
    Living in the U.S. I see this problem quite often; any vehicle that is towing be it LARGE or small should be required to go through a weigh station!!!
    Here In the U.S. the auto manufacturers are all about the whistles and bells; here they have turn pickup trucks into Toys!!!
    I live at a lake and I see it constantly; over load light weight vehicles towing a heavy RV!!! (OVER LOADED)

  • @brendawarner1342
    @brendawarner1342 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you. We're beginner towers. This is great advise

  • @katherinemcintyre7099
    @katherinemcintyre7099 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks so much John. This was doing my head in before watching your video.

    • @AutoExpertJC
      @AutoExpertJC  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      No worries Katherine. Glad it helped.

  • @WaynePilot
    @WaynePilot ปีที่แล้ว

    Very clear and helpful explanation. I'm not towing anything but this video is so good that it successfully draws my curiosity in engineering and I watched the whole video without stopping. Thank you ironman!

    • @AutoExpertJC
      @AutoExpertJC  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.

  • @stendecstretcher5678
    @stendecstretcher5678 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I took your advice a while ago John. Bought a Landcruiser and tow a caravan only weighing 1.6 tonne fully loaded. LC only carrying 200 kg max. Job done.

  • @murrieteacher
    @murrieteacher 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks John, my wife and I came to the realization that staying in motels and hotels was the better option. Our fuel consumption went down and the choice of vehicle expanded. And the real benefit was a vehicle that my wife could drive if something happened to me and I could not drive. My mate ended up getting an imported duel wheel 6.7lt truck and a Longhorn palace. That thing is now sitting in his yard after the big Australian adventure and no one wants it at the price he is asking. We travel in style and comfort, we stay at the best and eat at the best. And we still meet others who have also done the maths.

  • @spaceman6144
    @spaceman6144 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Brilliant vid, very informative and helpful. Cheers mate.

  • @Wofinet
    @Wofinet 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I really enjoyed this. It’s everything that I’ve wondered about answered.
    I’d like to add that I think another part of the reason why manufacturers don’t sell cars with the height limit is that could springs don’t handle loads all that well and if you made a car with a greater load it would ride like a stay empty. And who wants that ?

  • @johndoherty2864
    @johndoherty2864 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Your best explanation ever. Well done.
    Recently looking to buy an SUV that can tow a van of 2T will a ball weight of 180kg I found that only really the expensive euro SUVs would meet my needs. I previously had a Touareg 180 which was great but with a replacement starting at $105k decided to sell the van and just buy a car (loving the Stinger).
    With the huge caravan market in Australia I don’t get why manufacturers are not appropriately meeting the market. Or maybe I do, they just don’t want to be liable. Also when you ask a car salesman, they are totally clueless and will tell you it can do what you are asking for, even though it can’t.

    • @SurmaSampo
      @SurmaSampo 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Probably because when people see what they need to tow those massive caravans they won't buy it and will get something else that claims the same tow capacity. How many people want to buy an actual 4T truck and drive that around the suburban shopping centre car park?

    • @stendecstretcher5678
      @stendecstretcher5678 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree bought a Pajero Sport very poor tow car swapped it for a Landcruiser. Job done.

    • @johndoherty2864
      @johndoherty2864 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Michael Wilson my point was about new cars. I replace my car ( for work) every 3 years. What new car has a V8 and is appropriately tow rated?

    • @horseshoe182
      @horseshoe182 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      you believe a car salesman? you must be a bit stupid?

    • @johndoherty2864
      @johndoherty2864 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      horseshoe 182 I responded to you, so obviously

  • @ronwiddison8899
    @ronwiddison8899 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very informative, thanks heaps John!!! I had NFI before watching this video

  • @mickmiddle3331
    @mickmiddle3331 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well Done!! This video is a keeper.

  • @AshBhang2010
    @AshBhang2010 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thankyou ! I now concider myself informed . . . and yes before I bought my Camper but not before buying my DPF carrying unit . sigh . .

  • @jackturtle131
    @jackturtle131 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This should wake up some people.Thanks for showing And that's why we tow 2.34 ton caravan with an Iveco Daily van GCM of 7000Kg we are always within the limits of 600/700 KG

    • @javic1979
      @javic1979 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      i used to drive a 2014 iveco daily with the high output 3L they use heaps of fuel and have lots of issues.
      there is a kit for the front end that improves tyre wear and stops it pulling to the side of the road that not many owners know about
      but they are easy to drive and the doors dont suck air like smaller Isuzu trucks do.
      you need to keep an eye on hoses rubbing through. oil usage..
      80,000km had the manual gearbox fail, heater stop working 3 time, random no start (turn over but not fire), handbrake fixed twice and 1 recall on handbrake that made it fail again..
      random brake pedal to the floor

  • @AussieDazza
    @AussieDazza 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent video John . 👍

  • @simonmul449
    @simonmul449 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    People often forget that changing to larger LT tyres often adds around 10 - 15kgs per corner. Those cheap Titan drawers from 4WD Supacentre are around 70kgs empty. It doesn't take much to eat away at that GVM.

    • @rich7447
      @rich7447 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Larger tires also increase the leverage that the road has on the axle (decreasing final drive ratios and braking effectiveness). If you go to a larger tire without upgrading brakes and changing gear ratios you have to decrease you tow rating. Going from a 31 to a 35 you should multiply your tow rating by 31/35. The bonus is that it also multiplies your odometer reading by the same fraction.

  • @doncoleman4938
    @doncoleman4938 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Thank you for what should be part 1 of "Towing 101".
    How often do you see a retired couple cruising along in their new Landcruiser towing a 3500kg caravan (or a 3400kg Jayco because all the bits keep falling off making it lighter.....and lighter) with probably no idea about what to do should their mobile mansion start to fishtail? I need an HR licence to drive my 40ft. motorhome, yet only a car licence to drive a Silverado with a 30ft caravan. Training and a special licence for towing heavy recreational vehicles perhaps?

    • @sandybutt9898
      @sandybutt9898 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@frankvarga1502 So let me guess Frank, you own a Jayco with the bits falling off?

    • @chocolatemilk5146
      @chocolatemilk5146 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      fack in the US you can drive up to 11800 kgs (vehicles or combined weight) on a car license

    • @rich7447
      @rich7447 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      What state are you in. Only 14 states don't have RV exemptions (I'm in one of them). Most states you can run a over 26,000 on an RV with a standard license. Since I'm in Maryland I need a CDL for my 42' Monaco.

    • @doncoleman4938
      @doncoleman4938 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@sandybutt9898 Frank left the conversation because he's always at a Jayco dealer getting his caravan fixed.

  • @jolly1039
    @jolly1039 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Lol the free body diagram remind me of my statics subject lol good work!!

  • @philipmann1914
    @philipmann1914 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great vid John. Has frustrated me for years all this 3.5 t tow rubbish. Seeing all these uninsured, un or ill informed towers everywhere. This should all be reeled in. We regularly tow 1900 kg behind our 100 series. Knowing how it behaves in emergency braking situations on a bend, we will never tow more than about 2.5 tonne and really, thats stretching it. People need to think about all this. I agree a course and a license would be a good thing where sll this is taught and examined.

  • @ianw5057
    @ianw5057 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    thanks for explaining this! great video.

  • @Hope2421
    @Hope2421 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Brilliantly explained, cheers 🍻🇬🇧

  • @GuitarsRockForever
    @GuitarsRockForever 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    John, I heard this guy (from a reliable source), who run a business that regularly tow a car trailer with his Ute (around town).
    It can be done but certainly not recommended.
    It was like "one man in a Ute + a trailer & an old car on it". I don't think he was blowing the total weight, but I cannot imagine that will be fun at all.

  • @andrewhallett-patterson9778
    @andrewhallett-patterson9778 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you John. Advanced physics explained in simple form. This is why the mining companies explicitly test, re engineer and retest with senior engineers, both company and specialist consultants, manufactors, predominantly Toyota and Volvo, and NATA labs, to produce vehicles engineered specifically for site use. Clear labeling of all towable plant, stating GVM, GCM and ATM, clear towing limitations attached to the inside windscreen, and 4 days of intensive onsite training, theory in classroom with practical onsite, ensures overloading and stupid decisions, with the threat of instant dismissial, are minimal. But what you take away from all this is everyday implementation of knowledge. And if you need to exceed the capacity of your vehicle, either by towing or carrying capacity...buy a truck !!! 👍👍🇦🇺 Oh, and I can fully recommend an ex military Unimog as the ultimate off-road vehicle.

  • @MattBlack6
    @MattBlack6 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Re GVM upgrades.
    The 105 series LandCruiser carried over the same chassis and axles from the 80 series. With different splines on the rear diff and different hubs.
    But looking at it, I've got no problem upgrading the gvm on my 80 series to be the same as the 105 series gvm (or very similar).
    It was same as you said, 4 new springs, 4 new dampers. Warranty isn't an issue on a 24 year old car.

    • @MattBlack6
      @MattBlack6 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      My trailer weighs 1500kg, I've just had the gvm upgrade done because that is what will be over in my setup. I'm also investigating changing to 105 series brakes.

  • @WesternAustraliaNowAndThen
    @WesternAustraliaNowAndThen 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    How is it that Ma and Pa 'Kettle' can go out and buy a massive caravan, load it up, whack a boat on the top of the 4x4 and take off into the wide blue yonder with no previous towing experience? As someone who did get into trouble once with the tail wagging the dog, I know how quickly things can get wacky. Luckily I was experienced and knew how to recover (despite blowing one of the 4 tyres on the caravan) but there are so many people towing huge vans who have no idea about proper towing and what to do when things go wrong. Surely there needs to be some mandatory training for towing any towed vehicle over a (yet to be determined) weight limit...

    • @rich7447
      @rich7447 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yep. Ma and Pa Kettle here in the states probably have a much bigger caravan, but do have a better idea of tongue weight. I see toy haulers that are in the 13,000 to 17,000 lb dry weight all the time and they are usually behind a big duallie (350(0) to 650(0)). I chose the other route where my tow vehicle has a GVWR of 45,000 lbs (42' coach) and my trailer is only 10,000 lbs.

  • @hsvenforcer
    @hsvenforcer 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Bravo on a great vid!! Well done

  • @santillbrezon2161
    @santillbrezon2161 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well said john another great video .

  • @johnshaw5978
    @johnshaw5978 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi John. Thanks for your guide. You may be surprised to know that I am a 3rd time LandCruiser owner yet have gone through all these calculations myself. And I appreciate your summary. As others have stated, you should have covered the individual axle load requirements. Also a mention of trailer weight distribution. Moving weight rearward can decrease tow-ball loading - and decrease trailer stability if you have too much weight at the rear as many caravanners do with extra tires, trail bikes, etc. tacked on the rear. All a trade-off. Material for a serious towing course.
    I started with a 75 series Troopy which I know was towing an overweight trailer. Many times I was surprised by sneeky sand drifts on the edge of the Simpson and the trailer stabilised the Troopy from rollover purely via the sand drag acting like a kite tail and giving a delayed correction force. That truck & trailer did everything from the Gibb to the east coast. Later I moved to a 79 series (first one with front coils) and a Trayon slide-on camper. No trailer. Only towing was a heavy 2t box trailer around town. You comments about how cheap accommodation is relative to the rig costs misses a serious point. Many places I like to stay have no motels or B&B. That's what drives many nomads. Now, nearly a quarter century later I have just bought the dreaded twin cab 79 series. No, I won't be towing. Going to try an Active Camper slide-on. And maybe buy a set of those Reich Caravan Weight Control scales so I can spot check weights mid trip as the distribution is never static and most weight bridges don't really have the time to let you play around weighing each axle.
    Anyway, thanks again for your useful presentation. But please, don't sneer at the LandCruiser crowd. They are not all parochial red-necks. Their 4x4 tugs will likely outlast your alternative suggestions so of course they will defend their choices. Human nature. Try engaging them in a meaningful discussion rather than waving that red flag! 🚩
    Cheers,
    John
    PS: BTW, many states are increasingly doing random weight checking. I have heard of people in QLD having to truck their rig back home after a roadside check. Unless you can rebalance your load on the roadside it can spell the end of your Big Lap experience. So get with the program people!

  • @alexanderkarl4025
    @alexanderkarl4025 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    hi John greetings from Shitsville USA brother we really enjoyed the video and love the Iron Man shirt

    • @stephenpowstinger733
      @stephenpowstinger733 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Alexander Karl most likely few people get it though.

  • @uncle_moose
    @uncle_moose 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Verk good point. Thanx and keep up the good work.

  • @expeditionalliance
    @expeditionalliance 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great info and video! Thanks mate

  • @barje.waffles5461
    @barje.waffles5461 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you. This needs to be said. Then said again, then again and forevermore untill people listen.

    • @bnighter
      @bnighter 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      i'll need three times just to understand.

  • @thomasskilton2696
    @thomasskilton2696 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video John, very informative. I think buying a truck and fitting it out with a camper body would be better/ more fun!

  • @bobzed57
    @bobzed57 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks John, great video. This whole issue was fore of mind in my recent decision to buy a LC200. I opted for the Lovell's kit at 3800kg, because my 2.5T van has a 300kg ball weight. Spouse and I, like you, just can't our heads around towing up to 3.5T or anything approaching that. While our van runs an ATM of 2.5T, we like to keep it about 2.2T.

    • @waxerwaxer3188
      @waxerwaxer3188 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks John,I love your videos. Did your advice and made it by 100kg on a van with an atm of only 2.2 ton. I now have a much smaller van and it tows easy, uses way less fuel, can take it to rougher terrain, beaches etc. My advice by a small van and if yiu need more space for longer stays bring an annex

  • @jakehall9262
    @jakehall9262 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video, people need the same education for roof loading. After market places selling steel roof racks that only leave 10kg static roof payload and then people throw heaps of stuff on

  • @Jeff_MT09
    @Jeff_MT09 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hi John. A very informative and educational video; much appreciated. I’ve worked in risk management for many years, so have a good comprehension of what you mentioned. The key point (for me) of your video relates to the potential implications if one exceeds the set limits and there is accident, the owner of the vehicle and Taj Mahal will likely be wiped by their insurance company for operating an unroadworthy vehicle and their insurance claim denied - as you alluded to. Civil action may then follow for injuries and/or damage caused, which could mean people having to sell their houses and other assets in order to try to cover compensation. Not to mention the loss of your vehicle and whatever you were towing. Plus for me were the Triton payload figures - I’m a happy Triton owner; without a Taj Mahal! Thanks again John - great work. Cheers, Jeff.

  • @alexaescht
    @alexaescht 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I’m currently doing some ADR testing for a LC200 GVM upgrade kit. Definitely an interesting concept and I’d be interested to talk to you a bit about it JC

  • @jiffbox
    @jiffbox 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome video and spot on the mark

  • @ajcuthy1945
    @ajcuthy1945 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Absolutely brilliant video JC. I hope all the ignorant out there who are over these weights gasp loudly! How easy it is to exceed GVM...very easy! Local weigh bridge is free, so there is really no excuse. Latest issue of RV magazine tells of what you can be charged with if you smash overloaded, includes manslaughter if you kill someone!

  • @samelliott5915
    @samelliott5915 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good!
    I'll stick with my tent as long as possible... 😊

  • @exxr
    @exxr 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Good on ya John for such a thorough and informative video. The only thing is I doubt the bogans with their overloaded utes/trailers will bother to a) click on it at all and b) actually sit through more than half an hour of what is basically maths LOL :)

    • @DavesShed
      @DavesShed 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I gave you a thumbs up but on reflection, there are only so many bogans that can afford a $120,000+ rig and the time to haul it around the country for months.

    • @stendecstretcher5678
      @stendecstretcher5678 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      exxr especially in QLD where it's cool to be dumb.

    • @exxr
      @exxr 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Stendec Stretcher I've noticed the trend here in WA too.

    • @ajcuthy1945
      @ajcuthy1945 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@stendecstretcher5678 I'm going to use the 'ccol to be dumb' from now on. It rife in Vic as well. Some blokes learn nothing about their vehicles, just head to the outback and just hope nothing happens.

  • @rodpalmer4652
    @rodpalmer4652 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Bang on the money John!

  • @TheVeganTravelShow
    @TheVeganTravelShow 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video John