Caravan Club Editorial August 2004

How often when reversing a caravan onto a pitch have you wished you could see how close the rear of the caravan is to the hedge or other obstructions? Sensing systems which give visual or audible proximity warnings normally require wiring through the 12S electric connector but a new product called Parking Angel avoids this, using a radio link between the sensors and a receiver that plugs into the tow car’s cigarette lighter socket.

In its standard configuration, four ultrasound sensors are contained in a black or white plastic ‘profile’, which is fitted to the lower rear panel of the caravan between 50cm & 60cm from the ground. For installation on a motor caravan that has a door in the rear wall, shorter ‘profiles’ each housing 2 sensors can be fitted.

The only electrical connection needed is to the reverse light circuit of the caravan, typically at the rear light cluster. Our Bailey Pageant does not have reversing lights but Bailey do bring a feed for them as far as the fuse unit in a front seat locker so we were able to make a connection there.

With the caravan coupled up a warning bleep is sounded when the tow car reverse gear is engaged to confirm the system is operational. Three modes can be set to vary the distances at which the warning bleeps sound but basically the warning starts at 180cm (5ft 3 in) and increases as the obstruction gets closer, becoming a continuous tone at 30cm (12 in). The volume of the bleep can be adjusted and a useful spin off is an audible warning to pedestrians, a facility that, on its own, is for some reason not permitted on caravans by law.

We found the Parking Angel comparatively easy to fit and it would have been easier on a caravan that has reverse lights as original equipment. Initially cautious, we soon learned to trust the unit, reversing up to solid objects with confidence.