Handy Hints to get the most from your Caravanning
experience
Always cross your safety
chains. If your van coupling should come adrift from the tow ball the coupling will be held off the ground by
the chains.
Run your refrigerator
alternately on gas and electricity at least every 6 weeks when van is not in use and again 2 weeks prior to
departing.
Cooling deficiencies with
your fridge are most commonly caused by incorrect or insufficient venting especially in warmer
weather.
Wheel bearings &
brakes should be checked and bearings repacked every 10,000km
Spray soapy water over gas
bottle connections after re-fitting. Bubbles will detect any leaks.
When hooking up your van,
have a set procedure to avoid forgetting anything. A check list is a very good
idea.
Use a food-grade drinking
water hose when connection to mains pressure or filling your water tank, to avoid the annoying plastic taste
garden hoses produce.
Use silicon spray on your
moving awning parts (like your locking knobs) as this prevents them from seizing and costly
replacements.
When hooking up, put your
load equalising bars on before you lower the jockey wheel. This makes the job much easier (and saves your
back).
It is important to make
sure that your van is level (a 'T' level on the draw bar will help), as this allows your 3 Way fridge to work
properly and efficiently.
If you are a first time
caravanner, a terrific investment is taking a towing course to safeguard not only yourself and your family, but
also the lives of other road users. Look for one that covers topic such as packing, weights, handling and other
safety issues.
The Queensland Transport
Department has a 'Safe Towing
Guide' which is well worth
downloading.
On long trips, the quality
of your drinking water can be a real concern. You can sign up for free water alerts at www.freewateralerts.com and stay informed.
For a handy site to stay
up to date on the road conditions you are likely to encounterclick here.