Trailer steering - Turntable or Ackermann

[lunatuc]

What are the advantages or disadvantages of either system.
I am considering using an old commercial vehicle rolling chassis as a living van trailer and utilising the existing steering mechanism.

An example of a Brockhouse 4 wheel trailer with Ackermann steering is at this site

http://www.witham-sv.com/tender/lots_detail.php?ID=136

Is the length of the towing link purely for clearance between the two vehicles when manouvering or is it designed as a steering lever ?

If it is a steering lever are there any 'rules of thumb' or equations to determine its length ?

 

[GregLocock]

Generally the length of the drawbar is calculated so as to ensure that the trailer follows in the tracks of the towing vehicle. This depends on the wheelbase and the rear overhang of that vehicle, I think. Draw it out on a drawing board, it should be pretty opvious

Cheers

Greg Locock

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[Fabrico]

Not sure, but it seem that at best the trailer will follow the track of the towing vehicle hitch. Lots of overhang means a big circle.

This Witham does not look like the tongue is hooked to the axle. But considering its construction, it must swing laterally or it won't be hooked to anything but the towing vehicle.