A side folding drawbar system is an innovative solution designed to enhance the storage efficiency of caravans and trailers. This system allows the drawbar—the front part of the chassis that connects to the towing vehicle—to fold sideways, significantly reducing the overall length of the caravan when not in use. By enabling the drawbar to pivot and fold alongside the main body, owners can save valuable space, making it easier to store the caravan in confined areas such as garages or carports.
Key Features of the Side Folding Drawbar System
Space Optimisation
The primary advantage of the side folding drawbar system is its ability to minimise the storage footprint of a caravan. By folding the drawbar to the side, users can reduce the length by up to 900mm, allowing the caravan to fit into tighter spaces. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with limited storage areas, ensuring that the caravan occupies less room when parked.
User-Friendly Design
Designed with convenience in mind, the side folding drawbar system offers a straightforward mechanism that enables users to fold or unfold the drawbar with minimal effort. The process is intuitive, requiring only basic actions to secure the drawbar in its folded or extended position. This ease of use ensures that caravan owners can quickly prepare their vehicle for storage or travel without the need for specialised tools or extensive adjustments.
Low Maintenance Requirements
One of the standout features of this system is its low-maintenance design. The side folding drawbar requires minimal upkeep, with an annual greasing sufficient to keep the mechanism operating smoothly. This reduces the time and effort typically associated with maintenance tasks, allowing owners to focus more on their travels and less on upkeep.
Robust Construction and Safety Compliance
Safety and durability are paramount in the design of the side folding drawbar system. Constructed from high-quality materials, the system is engineered to withstand the rigors of regular use and various environmental conditions. Moreover, it complies with stringent safety standards, such as the Australian Design Rule (ADR) 62, and is rated to handle up to 3.5 tonnes Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM). This compliance ensures that users can have confidence in the system’s performance and safety during operation.
Enhanced Manoeuverability
Beyond storage benefits, the side folding drawbar system contributes to improved manoeuverability of the caravan. When folded, the reduced length allows for easier navigation in tight spaces, making tasks like parking or positioning the caravan more manageable. This feature is especially advantageous in crowded campsites or storage facilities where space is at a premium.
Versatility Across Models
The side folding drawbar system is designed to be versatile, accommodating a range of caravan and trailer models. Its adaptable design ensures that it can be integrated into various chassis configurations, providing a flexible solution for manufacturers and owners seeking to enhance their vehicles with space-saving features.
Corrosion-Resistant Finish
To ensure longevity, the side folding drawbar system is treated with corrosion-resistant coatings. This protective finish guards against rust and environmental wear, particularly important for caravans exposed to diverse weather conditions. The durable coating extends the lifespan of the drawbar, maintaining its functionality and appearance over time.
Secure Locking Mechanism
Safety during transit is crucial, and the side folding drawbar system addresses this with a robust locking mechanism. When extended for towing, the drawbar locks firmly into place, ensuring a secure connection between the caravan and the towing vehicle. This security prevents accidental folding or movement of the drawbar while on the road, providing peace of mind to users.
Lightweight Design
While maintaining structural integrity, the side folding drawbar system is engineered to be lightweight. This design consideration ensures that the addition of the folding mechanism does not significantly increase the overall weight of the caravan, preserving fuel efficiency and towing ease.
Compatibility with Accessories
The design of the side folding drawbar system allows for the integration of various accessories, such as jockey wheels, brake actuators, and safety chains. This compatibility ensures that users do not have to forgo essential features when opting for the space-saving benefits of a folding drawbar.
Invest in a Drawbar Nose Chassis Built for Performance
The side folding drawbar system offers a multitude of benefits, including significant space savings, user-friendly operation, low maintenance, and enhanced safety. Its robust and versatile design makes it an excellent addition for caravan owners and manufacturers looking to optimise storage without compromising on functionality or safety. For more information or to discuss how the side folding drawbar system can be integrated into your caravan design, please contact us at ARV Chassis.Investing in an innovative Truss Chassis means equipping your caravans with cutting-edge engineering that ensures better handling, durability, and efficiency. At ARV Chassis, we are committed to providing high-quality, precision-engineered chassis solutions that elevate the performance of modern caravans. If you're looking for a trusted supplier of truss chassis in Australia, ARV Chassis is ready to assist. Our team specialises in custom chassis solutions tailored to caravan manufacturers' and owners' unique specifications, ensuring that every build is safe, efficient, and designed for long-term performance. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.
