Caravans are a great way to get out and explore the country, but you must keep them in good working order to protect your investment and ensure they are safe. Regular caravan maintenance will also help with resale value. Adelaide RV is an expert in mobile caravan servicing, maintenance & and repairs. For professional caravan repair Adelaide services, check this out.
Maintenance
Caravans are often exposed to the elements, and if you plan to travel long distances, you must have regular caravan servicing. These services will help identify any issues and ensure that your van is safe to drive.
A regular caravan service will include thoroughly inspecting your caravan’s brakes, tyres and coupling head. The mechanic will also examine the chassis and drawbar for signs of wear and rust and check that your sacrificial anode rod works to prevent corrosion within the hot water system.
You should also regularly check your tyre pressures to meet the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. In addition, you should periodically inspect the awning for moisture and mould build-up, roll it out, give it a good cleaning, and ensure the awning track is adequately secured. You can also test the state of your wheel bearings by jacking the caravan up, fitting a rated automotive stand and rocking the wheel back and forth; if there’s play, then your paths are probably on their way out.
Repairs
While learning how to do caravan repairs yourself is a good idea, some jobs are best left to professionals. The 240V system, for example, should never be tampered with unless you are an electrician. It is also essential to have the awning of your caravan checked regularly and resealed when necessary. For professional caravan repair Adelaide services, check this out.
Your caravan’s water tanks should be drained and flushed before refuelling. This will remove any stagnant water, and the tanks are sterile and ready for use on your next trip.
Caravans are made of fibreglass, which is solid and durable, but it can become damaged over time. You must check your train regularly for any signs of damage, including cracks, tears and stress fractures. These should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and maintain the occupants’ safety. A professional can test the caravan’s electrical systems, including lights, power outlets and batteries, to ensure they work correctly.
Storage
Caravans are fantastic for travelling around our beautiful country but can be a pain regarding storage. They stick out like a sore thumb in your driveway and take up a lot of space next to your neighbours.
Before putting your caravan away for the winter, cleaning it inside and out is essential. Especially if it’s been travelling in a dusty or salty environment, be careful not to use a high-pressure cleaner as water could get into gaps and weak seals, causing rot.
You should also drain the water tanks and clean the pump and filters. This will sterilise the water and prevent contamination when ready to re-fill it for your travels. Also, check the tyres, as they will have been sitting for some time and will need a good cleaning and inspection. Make sure they are inflated correctly and have enough tread left. If the tyres are worn, you should consider a caravan tyre replacement. For professional caravan repair Adelaide services, check this out.
Insurance
Caravans are homes away from homes, and they’re often used for long holidays. So, they need to be protected from the things that can go wrong, like storm damage or theft. That’s why caravan insurance is so important.
However, before you purchase a policy, it’s best to understand what coverage is included and excluded. You will also want to decide if your caravan should be insured at Market or Agreed Value and discuss your excess with the insurer. Also, if you don’t use your fleet throughout the year, it is worth considering a lay-up cover, which will give you a reduced premium when you need to use it.