2013 Multivan 103TDi Caravan Tow Capability and Tow Pack Suggestions

[The Loadsies]

Hi Guys,

We are new to the VW family, and need some further info from experienced MULTIVAN road trippers!

So can anyone tell me if we can tow a caravan more than 100kgs with the 103TDi model? Obviously this will require a modified tow pack? If so, is there anywhere near the Gold Coast that will supply and install?

Also, can anyone recommend a LIGHT WEIGHT 6 berth caravan that the 103TDi Multivan CAN tow??? Personally from experience???

Thanks so much in advance guys!

Sincerely, The Loadsies

[Skoda VW]

I assume you are talking about 100kg's ball load? If so the answer is no. The limit is set by the manufacturer.

Not sure if you can get an automotive engineer to certify a custom/heavy duty towbar.

From RACQ -

Trailer Ball Load

Ball Load is the amount of weight the fully laden trailer imposes (vertically) on the tow bar of the tow vehicle.

There is no requirement to list Ball Load on the trailer’s plate, however if the plate lists the trailer’s Gross Trailer Mass (GTM), the difference between the ATM and GTM will be its Ball Load.

Ball Load, like other towing specifications, must not be exceeded.

Ball Load is not usually a critical issue with small trailers unless the tow vehicle has a low Ball Load specification, as is the case with many small cars and some European vehicles. However heavy trailers such as horse floats and caravans often impose quite high Ball Loads on the tow vehicle.

Ball Load is a function of the trailer’s axle position and the manner in which the trailer is loaded.

Ball Load can be measured at a weighbridge by disconnecting the fully laden trailer from the tow vehicle and resting only the trailer’s draw bar (via the jockey wheel) on the scales, or with special ball mass scales.

Ball Load is often around 10% of the trailers ATM however this should not be relied on for every trailer. Where no reliable information is available, the fully laden trailer must be weighed to determine this specification.

I tow a Jayco Finch which has approx 90kg's on the ball. I use to tow this with my Skoda Scout which had a 75kg ball load. I could easily reduce the ball load by packing behind the axle. Having said that you can upset the balance and cause towing issues. I also use a weight distribution hitch to keep things stable. Never had an issue with the Scout or the Multivan.

The Finch is only 5 berth with the table folded down however.

[IN2VWS]

Best $100 I ever spent (on my trailer):
Towing Load Indicator