Why caravans sway?

When either pendulum swings beyond a minor angle specific to each’s length and mass, both pendulums quite suddenly interact in a manner called chaotic motion. Not quite as the name implies, chaotic motion can be predicted, but only by knowing the exact triggering circumstances at virtually atomic level and via hugely complex mathematical equations. Let us just say for now that the behaviour of a double pendulum is random-like, but not random.

A tow vehicle and trailer, when subject to external forces, behave like a horizontal double pendulum. By being on the ground, due to the force of gravity on the rig’s tyres’ footprints, their friction on the road surface dampens the action. The effect is not as intense as the vertical pendulum, but the principle is the same: yawing

How to Get Your Car Ready For Your Next Road Trip – General Maintenance

Cars have numerous components that need maintenance to stay in good working order, so make sure to check these parts before you hit the road. Brake pads: Brake pads provide the friction needed to slow and stop your car. They wear away with use, becoming too thin to work effectively. Usually it’s obvious when this happens due to […]

How to Get Your Car Ready For Your Next Road Trip – Tires

As you’d expect, tires are paramount to safety, comfort, and fuel efficiency, so it’s important to check their condition. Air pressure – 1,000 km: Every road tripper wants to get the best fuel efficiency, and under-inflated tires are guaranteed to waste gas. Conversely, over-inflated tires make ride quality worse because they’re less compliant. Incorrect air pressure also causes tires to […]

How to Get Your Car Ready For Your Next Road Trip – 6 Essential fluids

The arrival of spring always stirs up a longing for adventure. After months cooped up inside, blue skies and warm weather are reason enough to load up your car and hit the highway. However, your best planning will be undone if you can’t depend on your car. A breakdown on your daily commute is one […]

A Guide to Your Car’s Temperature Gauge: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Paying attention to how hot your engine is running is necessary in maintaining the health of your vehicle. In fact, by monitoring your car’s temperature gauge, you can detect an overheating engine before costly damage occurs. Learn how to interpret this vital tool below! What Is a Normal Engine Temperature? Ideally, your engine’s temperature should […]

Top 10 Ways to Protect Your Car

Your car is not immune to negative effects caused by such heat. Here are 10 simple ways to protect your vehicle from sun damage: Regularly check your fluid levels: When it’s hot outside, the fluids in your car can get used up more quickly than under normal circumstances. If you happen to be low on […]

Protect Your Car from the Damaging Effects of Sun and Heat

Summer is here and school’s out! Unfortunately that also means the sun is out too and the heat is rising. The combination of sun and heat can be damaging to your car. However it’s not just the outside of your car you need to pay extra attention to, you need to take special care of your […]

What Is The Best Outdoor Car Cover For The Climate I Live In? … PART 3

Covers For Reflecting Intense Sunlight If you have no choice but to park under the blazing sun, a cover designed to reflect the maximum amount of sunlight will keep your interior much cooler, and it will protect your paint from sun fade that occurs under the relentless onslaught of UV rays. If you live in […]

What Is The Best Outdoor Car Cover For The Climate I Live In? … PART 2

Vehicle Specific Vs. Universal Fit Covers We have both custom-fit (“vehicle-specific”) and universal-fit car covers. Our related article Should I Get A Custom-Fit or Universal Car Cover discusses these types more in depth. In this article, we will stick with the custom-fit ones. Whichever type you select, your cover will feature sturdy elastic around its […]

What Is The Best Outdoor Car Cover For The Climate I Live In?

If you’re an auto enthusiast without a garage, seeing your beloved ride exposed to the elements can be painful. Warm climates have scorching sun that fades paint and cracks interior panels. Rainy climates lead to acid rain damage on paint, chrome, plastic trim, and rubber seals. Cold climates add the inconvenience of snow, along with […]