Stable on the move – travel safely in your caravan with these safety components

Inseparable and united in harmony even in tough times – while this might sound like a romantic declaration of love from a Hollywood film, it is actually essential for safe driving with your caravan and towing vehicle. Critical situations on the road cannot always be avoided, and at such moments, it is often technology that decides the outcome.

With a stabiliser coupling such as the AKS 3004 for caravans up to 3,000 kg from AL-KO VT, you suppress swaying and pitching movements that could lead your caravan to dangerous snaking, right from the outset.

By the way: With a stabiliser coupling from AL-KO VT, you always know – thanks to the safety indicator – when the coupling is correctly positioned on the towball, and this remains possible even in severe winter conditions thanks to the de-icer spray. When you engage the stabilisation handle, two friction pads press against the coupling on both sides. This also raises the critical driving speed, although you always need to observe the permissible maximum speed.

Left, right, left, right – swaying is great fun at a concert, but if your caravan starts to sway on the road, the enjoyment quickly disappears. At higher speeds, caravans are extremely sensitive, and even the slightest lateral movements can result in dangerous snaking.

Acting in time is vital and, thanks to anti-snaking systems such as AL-KO VT Trailer Control (ATC), it is done automatically. Sensors react to even the slightest deviations, and the system gently applies the brakes to bring the trailer back into line, allowing you to keep relaxed control of your outfit. This process starts with ATC even before you set off: a function test is performed automatically when the trailer is connected, and a clearly visible green LED signals full functionality, which you can monitor at all times with the ATC display in the cockpit.

As a special highlight, AL-KO VT is offering the 2LINK system since early 2017, consisting of the 2LINK Box with Bluetooth technology and the 2LINK app. This way, you receive all relevant information about your chassis directly on your smartphone, for example the ATC status display. In the near future, the connectivity system will also be able to show tyre pressure and brake lining wear.

Shocks on uneven surfaces not only reduce driving comfort but also cause worrying body oscillations. It is the job of shock absorbers and suspension to counteract this risk.

A fundamental problem: Many standard axle shock absorbers only provide optimum damping at moderate trailer weights. If the weight is too low, the damping is excessive, which can make the caravan bounce and jolt. At higher weights, under-damping makes the combination sluggish, making it harder to steer. To achieve the ideal damping effect, it is advisable to use precisely tuned shock absorbers. The AL-KO VT Octagon axle shock absorber, for example, noticeably improves handling, giving more stability and optimum contact with the road surface.

The AL-KO VT hexagonal rubber suspension system offers added comfort and safety. Long suspension travel, high natural damping, wheel-specific damping thanks to independent suspension, and the perfect match to your caravan's weight ensure a safe and stress-free journey.

Shorter, smoother, safer – optimally adjusted brakes are an absolute must on the road. Only the highest safety standards should be acceptable to you. What makes a perfect brake? It delivers above-average braking performance, works reliably at all times, and brakes as smoothly as possible.

The AAA (AL-KO Automatic Adjustment) stands out with a braking distance up to 5 metres shorter, automatic brake adjustment, and the highest level of driving comfort. You also save on maintenance costs thanks to extended service intervals and the omission of the first workshop visit after 1,000 kilometres.

However, check whether your caravan is equipped with special mounts for AL-KO VT axle Bowden cables and Profi Longlife Bowden cables. Generally, you should always check where and how your Bowden cables are installed. They should be suspended in the middle area so that standing water cannot freeze in the sleeves.