RV MAIL
LETTERS FROM THE ROAD
UPGRADES FOR OFFROAD
I have a 21ft New Age Big Red tandem-axle van
with roller-rocker suspension and I'm trying to
figure out what improvements we need to do to
improve offroad travel, not so much goat tracks
but the Gibb River Road, Tanami Track, etc. Can
you please advise?
Cameron Perry
Via email
Thanks for your letter, Cameron. It’s a good
question. One of the first things I’d do is wrap
the underside’s plumbing – PVC pipes, etc. – in
offcuts of carpet or any other material that will
protect it from being shot-peened to pieces.
You could certainly look at a suspension upgrade.
No doubt an independent coil setup will improve
the ride quality and make things easier on your
van; however, I’ve known caravanners who’ve
done some pretty rough travels with beam axles
and leaf springs. Having said that, if it’s in your
budget, your van will love you for the upgrade.
COMPACT CRUISER
Regarding your inquiry from a reader about small
vans (GoRV #23), check out Silversun Caravans
(www.silversuncaravans.com.au). These are a
small, lightweight caravan that can be towed by
a lot of four-cylinder cars. These vans have an
ensuite with separate shower.
I have owned one for over three years until
circumstances cut short our caravanning. They
are excellent quality and offer no-fuss after-sales
service.
Grahame Murdoch
Via email
GAS GUZZLER
I just wanted to point out that the Patrol Y62
needs premium unleaded (3 Most Under-Rated
Tow Tugs, GoRV #23), which is invariably more
expensive than diesel and harder to find in country
areas. A good article otherwise.
Tom Dermott
Via email
If your van has a basic ball coupling, I’d consider
an offroad unit. I’d also look at all-terrain tyres for
the van (and tow vehicle). How many spare tyres
do you have? You’ll need a couple. And a tyre
puncture repair kit wouldn’t go astray.
I could go on – this is by no means an exhaustive
list, but hopefully it’s a starting point. Other
readers are more than welcome to chip in at info@
gorv.com.au – Ed
If you have an opinion or thought about the RV lifestyle, or about this digital
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