Towing preparation

Trevt · May 20, 2012

Hi, searched but nothing specific bringing this together for me so seeking the collectives advice

I recently bought a 1998 4.6 V8 auto P38a running on LPG - whilst I have a history file I don't know the history (as I didn't do the work). Normally with a new car I'd spend the first 6 months working my way through it checking everything over and completing a basic oils service but this time I don't have 6 months before towing a twin axle 1800 kg fully laden weight caravan for 300 miles (with a stop over mid-way).

The EAS is sorted (or will be shortly when I check heights and pump a new pump on). I will check/replace brake pads etc as matter of course and then a fluid service - oil, transmission/gearbox oils and cooling system. With the cooling system I'll also flush the radiator.

Apart from LPG the RR is standard.

Anything else I should check, service, replace or add/upgrade as a matter of course? I will have a few shorter jaunts with the caravan before the summer trip.

Any particular recommendations for parts and or oils/fluids (apart from manufacturer recommendations). For wifes Freelander I tend to use Britpart.

Not used to towing that weight so being cautious.

Thanks

Whoops - also meant to add "what spares and tools (other than basic sockets, spanners, screwdrivers and big hammer) would you carry as essential"

TCubed · May 20, 2012

First off, it's one of the best towing vehicles available, so provided everything works it will breeze that journey.
Before you tow, remember to press the inhibit switch for the EAS - prevents the height changing at speed and causing snaking.

Trevt · May 20, 2012

Thanks.

Being an excellent tow vehicle is part of how I convinced my better half to allow me a toy

My only fears are from a lack of knowledge/experience of both towing and of RR. Normally I take my time to work round the car and get to know all the mechanical bits - what's likely to go wrong, what's nearing end of life etc.
Will probably irritate other drivers by following the rule book until I'm more confident better that than causing mayhem.
Cheers

TCubed · May 20, 2012

You almost certainly will get something.. odd, but there are always people on here to help.
I recommend you download RAVE: land rover service factory manual RAVE download land rover resource, service manual, workshop factory manual, download, rave, vehicles including discovery, series, defender, range rover, freelander, LR3, Handbooks, Catalog, Catalogue, Land Rover Inte which has the handbooks and service manuals for all Land Rovers including the P38 - makes it much easier when something does go wrong.

Datatek · May 20, 2012

Trevt said:
Hi, searched but nothing specific bringing this together for me so seeking the collectives advice

I recently bought a 1998 4.6 V8 auto P38a running on LPG - whilst I have a history file I don't know the history (as I didn't do the work). Normally with a new car I'd spend the first 6 months working my way through it checking everything over and completing a basic oils service but this time I don't have 6 months before towing a twin axle 1800 kg fully laden weight caravan for 300 miles (with a stop over mid-way).

The EAS is sorted (or will be shortly when I check heights and pump a new pump on). I will check/replace brake pads etc as matter of course and then a fluid service - oil, transmission/gearbox oils and cooling system. With the cooling system I'll also flush the radiator.

Apart from LPG the RR is standard.

Anything else I should check, service, replace or add/upgrade as a matter of course? I will have a few shorter jaunts with the caravan before the summer trip.

Any particular recommendations for parts and or oils/fluids (apart from manufacturer recommendations). For wifes Freelander I tend to use Britpart.

Not used to towing that weight so being cautious.

Thanks

Whoops - also meant to add "what spares and tools (other than basic sockets, spanners, screwdrivers and big hammer) would you carry as essential"

A jack for the caravan in case you need to change a wheel.
If the airbags are original, get the EAS cable and software if you yhave a laptop, or an EAS kicker. On my first trip with the caravan 3 years ago, it dropped to the bump stops after going through a large puddle, cleared the fault (front left height sensor) and it was fine for the rest of the trip. No more problems since I did the airbags, height sensors etc

donp38 · May 20, 2012

Ensure the brake accumulator is not running too often.

Make sure the tow bar is fitted robustly and wired correctly.

Have fun......let us know how you get on...

Towing preparation

Trevt

New Member

TCubed

Active Member

Trevt

New Member

TCubed

Active Member

Datatek

Well-Known Member

donp38

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