10/03/2016
I do not see where how I can upload a document, but anyway here goes, for those who have nothing to do, try read this!
More about brakes…
Brakes:
All out trailers have trailer run in brakes. Meaning the coupler on the trailer move, or slide, inwards and activate the brake drum on each wheel. There are many different designs and types. We use a spesific supplier, not for their price, but for the quality of product, and mainly for the way their system work.
• The coupler has a big diameter, smooth, coated shaft, sliding through Viton, plastic type bushes. This ensure low friction and no rattles.
• The coupler’s movement is dampened by one proper gas loaded shock absorber.
• Every wheel can be adjusted seperately, (no 17 spanner used on backplate of each drum brake.)
• Both axles are braked. Both axles are auto reverse type. Meaning you are able to reverse anytime, anywhere, up an incline, over grass etc. (Without engaging stops or plates or anything.)
• The handbrake do override this auto reverse system. Meaning the trailer will not run away backwards.
Not many trailers and caravans have the above 5 points sorted. This is a big deal to us. I do adjust en check every trailer myself, also I do the fitment of the axles, cables and coupler on every trailer. We use the highest grade bolts and lock nuts.
• The braking capabilities of our trailers are exceptional good.
• These axles deliver a 10 year service without replacing wheel bearings. Client may adjust brakes when needed. Thirst adjustment maybe after 3 years.
Vacuum assist brake system.
Now with all the above mentioned, we prefer not to fit vacuum boosters.
What is vacuum boosters?
• There is a vacuum booster (round silinder piston type thing with an soft air pipe connected to it.) on the trailer, which helps to pull on the brake rod. (This booster cost about R1500.)
• Then the vehicle need to have a vacuum system fitted to it.
• Cheap systems cost about R6500. Not adjustable. These systems pull to hard and the suppliers then adjust the trailer brakes to make it work. (They weaken, or tone down the trailer run in brakes.)
• Adjustable vacuum systems cost about R25 000. (These work fantastic.)
• Many clutch and brake workshops do install these systems. But these systems are becoming rare, and they are not imported anymore. Last I checked was difficult to find.
• Vehicle manufacturers do not approve these systems, mainly because valves and switches are fitted into the original brake fluid and vacuum pipes of the vehicle.
Traffic laws.
• In South Africa the law states that the trailer BVM should be less than the vehicle TARA weight.For example, a fully loaded Nutti Export is 2200kg in total, and a empty double cab weights 1800kg. Thus not legal!
• When you have a vacuum sytem installed to your vehicle and vacuum booster to your trailer, this law do not apply. (You may tow anything up to 3500kg with a single cab!)
• All vehicles TARA and BVM are indicated on the licence disc. (The round piece of paper on your windscreen.) This is also where the traffic officer gets his info.
• If you are in Natal, going downhill to Durban, this is a big issue, and the officers there do apply the law. (You will not proceed from such a roadblock, you will have to call a heavier vehicle to collect the trailer.)
• If the trailer is emty, it does not help, they look at licence discs only!
• To correct this you have to choose your trailers right when buying new. Most trailer builders have different model names (for the same trailer) to fit different vehicles.
• All old trailers are to heavily registered. It is my hobby to check all different trailers.
Nutti C**t models.
• The Nutti C**t models do comply with any/most towing vehicles.
• Nutti C**t Mk1, 13 inch wheels, BVM is 1500kg.
• Nutti C**t Mk2, 14 inch wheels, BVM is 1600kg.
Nutti Export models.
• The Nutti Export model, BVM is 2200kg.
• Most of our clients do have really heavy towing vehicles, which solve the problem.
• Many of our clients do prefer the Export 2200kg BVM, and they ignore the law. (They do have normal double cabs, single cabs, etc.)
• I need them to read this document so they fully understand all the relevant issues.
• It seems the Law is not implemented everywhere in South Africa, and I do get the idea that traffic officers are scared of women with horse boxes.
Nutti Export LIGHT model.
• From 2016 we will have a Nutti Export LIGHT model, BVM 1850kg.
• It is the same trailer, the light model will not be fitted with any accessories.
• This light model has the same axles and are just as capable.
• When loaded with two big horses this trailer could be overweight, when checked on a weighbridge.
If you made it this far in this document you are really tough and technical exam ready!
Regards
Wikus Beetge, owner Nutti trailers.
