Posted on 07/03/2022 19:58
Thinking of buying a 2022 special addition Elddis 550 caravan due to its design.
Always had Swift sprites. Also looked at the Coachman 545 Laser beautiful caravan but don't know if we can justify the expense and not sure if a 8ft wide van is right for towing on some of our narrow roads?
Anyone had any experience of these two caravans please.
Posted on 08/03/2022 09:15
We bought an Elddis Affinity 550 new in 2016. Lovely caravan inside and the layout was perfect for us. Then the problems started, with the worst one being the gas locker door split into two upon opening it. Then the dealer found several cracks where the hinge was attached to the front of the caravan. Apparently this was a known problem. If the cracks weren't repaired properly then a whole new front would be required.
Yes there's a 10 year water ingress warranty but it only covers the bonded joints. The plastic panels only have a 1 year warranty, and they are known for cracking. We also found the weight distribution was a problem with all the heavy fixed equipment over one wheel. It was never a stable tow however carefully we loaded the van, checking with scales each time.
After suffering leaks due to poor application of sealant we decided to get rid with a significant financial loss. We then bought a Knaus and have been very pleased with it over the last 4 years.
Good luck.
Posted on 08/03/2022 10:18
Thanks handsj for your reply I did notice that the fibreglass body panels were a lot thinner than our Swift. I can see where you are coming from with the weight ratio too. Did you have any issues with the rear lights because there is no rubber seal surrounding them.
It's a shame because the 550s layout inside is what we were looking for.
Spritely01