7
When traversing rough terrain, you
have to assume that everything you
have stored in the van is likely to move
around quite a lot, risking damaging
vital components. A good offroader will
have these components secured in their
own compartments where they are not
affected by loosely stored items.
8
Exposed wiring and plumbing are also
a real concern for caravanners who
regularly traverse dirt roads. Gravel,
stones and rocks flung up from the rig's
tyres causes mayhem to components
under the caravan and exposed plumbing
is particularly vulnerable to breakage.
Plumbing and wiring should be run up
behind the main beams of the chassis
or behind the water tanks to offer some
protection against stone damage.
The writer swears by his Roadstar
Safari Tamer's offroad ability.
RV FEATURE
9
The interior of the caravan is another
area that you need to assess in terms
of its suitability to offroad conditions.
Cabinetry made from MDF or chipboard
is not likely to survive the constant
vibrations exerted upon the van from
endless corrugations.
Glued and screwed marine ply is much
more suitable. Cupboard doors need
substantial hinges and locks while
draws should have metal runners to
minimise vibration.
Make sure the microwave is very well
secured. Many caravan owners have
opened their van after a dirt road trip to
find the microwave shattered on the floor.
10
A common question regarding the
capability of offroad caravans is whether
they should be single or dual-axle. This
is a good question. The ultimate answer
may depend on how extreme your
offroad travels are.
I've towed both and while I would
absolutely agree a single-axle van is
easier to manoeuvre in difficult terrain, in
my experience a dual-axle caravan is a lot
better to tow for long distances offroad.
Dual-axle vans do not pitch as much
as single-axle vans and they are far
more stable in undulating terrain. As
a result, they exert less influence on
the tow vehicle, making the van more
comfortable to tow for long distances.
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