Posted on 26/10/2021 11:15
We recently got a new caravan, and I'm picking up various nuggets of useful information. Like leaving the brake off for long term parking.
I know there are some beginners guides here on this site which are useful, but what your top tips or 'gotchas' for caravanning? Things that you wish someone had told you when you started.
Posted on 28/10/2021 18:55
You have already been advised to check all doors, cupboards etc but don't forget the roof lights (ie 'windows' in the roof). If not closed and locked they could open whilst travelling and break; and they are expensive to replace. A few weeks ago I was behind a caravan on the A1 and his large roof light was open and upright: luckily, I was able to warn him and I was pleased to see that he pulled in and secured it.
Posted on 28/10/2021 18:55 by commeyrasYou have already been advised to check all doors, cupboards etc but don't forget the roof lights (ie 'windows' in the roof). If not closed and locked they could open whilst travelling and break; and they are expensive to replace. A few weeks ago I was behind a caravan on the A1 and his large roof light was open and upright: luckily, I was able to warn him and I was pleased to see that he pulled in and secured it.
Posted on 28/10/2021 20:49
If anyone interrupts you when you are packing up on site start the process again if only by checking that things have been done.
This is a lesson learnt the hard way! Even after 30 years I still have a tendency to forget my own rule and it always costs me.
Make sure you see the service engineer torque the bolts on the wheels. Don't take his word for it or if you can't see it then check them before setting off. Check them anyway before each journey. Good habit to get into.
Stop in the first convenient lay-by and have a quick look inside the 'van just to make sure doors have stayed closed etc.
Don't forget to disengage the motor mover from the tyres before setting off.
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Posted on 28/10/2021 20:49 by WherenextIf anyone interrupts you when you are packing up on site start the process again if only by checking that things have been done.
This is a lesson learnt the hard way! Even after 30 years I still have a tendency to forget my own rule and it always costs me.
Make sure you see the service engineer torque the bolts on the wheels. Don't take his word for it or if you can't see it then check them before setting off. Check them anyway before each journey. Good habit to get into.
Stop in the first convenient lay-by and have a quick look inside the 'van just to make sure doors have stayed closed etc.
Don't forget to disengage the motor mover from the tyres before setting off.
Posted on 29/10/2021 09:44 by JVB66Milenco tell tales fitted to the wheel bolts can negate the need for checking torque settings on them as it can be seen if they are moving
Posted on 29/10/2021 10:11 by AndyJFAlthough I ideally want to be proactive and check them before they start to slip. Think I'll invest in a torque wrench.
AndyJF