For many, happy holiday memories revolve around the trusty caravan.
And as vans spend plenty of time chasing bitumen, wear and tear is inevitable. That’s why proper care and maintenance are essential.
Such care benefits both your and other road users’ safety as well as the hip pocket. After all, you want your big investment to have the longest life possible.
So, this comprehensive guide for caravan care and maintenance makes for essential reading.
Although maintenance procedures for caravans, trailers etc. are mostly common sense and follow the same principals as other vehicles, these points may assist in covering areas that may otherwise be overlooked.
Starting at the front of the caravan, the following should be especially considered:
1. Override
Check that the coupling is effectively lubricated and that head and shaft rotates freely (apply grease through nipples).
Adjusting screw and nut should not be frozen in head and should be adjusted to stop ball from rattling (oil adjusting screw shaft by turning coupling upside down. Lightly grease inside coupling head where it fits over towball).
Backing stop should move freely.
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2. Hydraulic
Ensure free movement of all parts.
Master cylinder cap should be in good condition to prevent moisture entering reservoir.
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3. Fixed
Check operation of spindle and screw nut.
Note: On all couplings, trigger lock on handle should be moving freely and in good condition (oil regularly).
Note: Surface rust should be removed by sanding or with a wire brush and metal surface then painted with an anti-rust paint.
Note: Operation of all braking systems should be regularly checked for signs of wear or fatigue in wires, clamps or connections.
Note: At the time of sale of any caravan fitted with or capable of being fitted with LP gas appliances, (i.e. gas lines fitted) a current certificate of compliance must be supplied by the seller to the buyer. Serious consequences can eventuate if this law is not adhered to.
Note: Any suspected problems with gas lines or the operation of any gas appliance or electrical fault should be referred to a qualified gas fitter or electrician respectively and should not be tampered with by an unqualified person.
Note: Any major repairs or queries on caravans should be referred only to an approved member of the Caravan Trade and Industries Association in your state or territory.
Are you ready for a caravanning adventure? Start by checking out all BIG4 parks here.
This article first appeared on the Caravanning Queensland website and was republished with permission.