Back to the fold....
Discussion
Thanks KT and sorry to hear you're also struggling still.
We're talking about going away this weekend in Harry so something to look forward to. I'd like to go up to Norfolk but fear Mrs Spuff just wants to go somewhere a bit more local. We'll see who wins!
I'm hoping we're on the way to actually enjoying ownership now. Certainly had our share of downs.
We're talking about going away this weekend in Harry so something to look forward to. I'd like to go up to Norfolk but fear Mrs Spuff just wants to go somewhere a bit more local. We'll see who wins!
I'm hoping we're on the way to actually enjoying ownership now. Certainly had our share of downs.
Have a great time in Spain - very jealous! 
LHM seems to be sorted now. I've put the van through its paces both locally and on the motorway now over a longer distance and, so far so good, it seems to be absolutely fine. I've tried to replicate the situations where it had a problem previously, but to no avail. Ironically, after being quoted thousands of pounds for new turbo and various ancillary work, it was a 60quid fix of re-routing a sensor cable! I'm fully convinced by All Klasse Autos and will take the vehicle there every time from now on - they have proved they know what they're doing and also don't just charge for the most expensive job!
We ended up heading up to Thetford Forest CC&C site and having a lovely time. The weather was lovely and even though there was nearly a frost overnight, the van stayed cosy and warm and we all enjoyed ourselves.
Two more issues, although I've come to expect this from every trip now!
- wife somehow broke the check-strap for the cab door! I say she broke it, but in actual fact, the hinge had almost siezed so it was in fact corrosion which prevented it from moving quick enough and sheard the bolts off. Door is fine (although a bit of plastic trim broke in the process) but I will need to work out a way of securing it again, if only with cable ties until I get it screwed on properly, since the door is now very capable of hitting the wing mirror!
- aircon needs regassing. Pretty feeble on the way back from Thetford - although it was "only" 18degs C outside, the sun was shining straight through the windscreen and baking us. Feel another trip to All Klasse Autos on the cards!
But in spite of the above, we're back in love with Harry and can't wait to get out in him more.
LHM seems to be sorted now. I've put the van through its paces both locally and on the motorway now over a longer distance and, so far so good, it seems to be absolutely fine. I've tried to replicate the situations where it had a problem previously, but to no avail. Ironically, after being quoted thousands of pounds for new turbo and various ancillary work, it was a 60quid fix of re-routing a sensor cable! I'm fully convinced by All Klasse Autos and will take the vehicle there every time from now on - they have proved they know what they're doing and also don't just charge for the most expensive job!
We ended up heading up to Thetford Forest CC&C site and having a lovely time. The weather was lovely and even though there was nearly a frost overnight, the van stayed cosy and warm and we all enjoyed ourselves.
Two more issues, although I've come to expect this from every trip now!
- wife somehow broke the check-strap for the cab door! I say she broke it, but in actual fact, the hinge had almost siezed so it was in fact corrosion which prevented it from moving quick enough and sheard the bolts off. Door is fine (although a bit of plastic trim broke in the process) but I will need to work out a way of securing it again, if only with cable ties until I get it screwed on properly, since the door is now very capable of hitting the wing mirror!
- aircon needs regassing. Pretty feeble on the way back from Thetford - although it was "only" 18degs C outside, the sun was shining straight through the windscreen and baking us. Feel another trip to All Klasse Autos on the cards!
But in spite of the above, we're back in love with Harry and can't wait to get out in him more.
So, not been out in Harry since Thetford, but we will be putting him into "day van mode" at the weekend since we have friends coming down from Yorkshire and they want to do a bit of outdoorsy stuff around Epping Forest, so makes sense to have a base for some trail walking where we can have a cuppa and spot of lunch. Will only be a 30mile round trip but enough to at least get the wheels turning again.
We've also just exchanged on a new house, so Harry will be deployed as our interim housing solution for a good few nights to come. We collect the keys to our new place on 4th Dec but given the amount of building work needing doing before we move in, we've got alternative accomodation planned but will be parking Harry at the new house and staying in him every weekend until New Year when we move in so we can keep an eye on the house and maintain the garden.
Looking forward to a non-travelling adventure for the latter part of 2015!!
We've also just exchanged on a new house, so Harry will be deployed as our interim housing solution for a good few nights to come. We collect the keys to our new place on 4th Dec but given the amount of building work needing doing before we move in, we've got alternative accomodation planned but will be parking Harry at the new house and staying in him every weekend until New Year when we move in so we can keep an eye on the house and maintain the garden.
Looking forward to a non-travelling adventure for the latter part of 2015!!
As a quick break before house-move, we've booked a long weekend (Fri-Mon) at Kelling Heath between Holt & Sheringham, Norfolk.
We've been there once before with the last motorhome and whilst we had a nice time (weather was great and we did lots of walking over the heathland), the site was a Little too commercial for us. And as a result we haven't been back.
However, in some ways that's the reason we're heading back now. Given the weather was unpredictable when we booked it - it's now looking dreadful and mindful of that, we thought that having a swimming pool, gym/Fitness centre, restaurant & bar and shop all on site meant that we would at least while away rainy days doing something rather than couped up in the van together.
Also, I hadn't appreciated just how difficult it would be to book something in November - it seems most campsites shut down after October half-term.
I was up for going to France, but given all the issues still at Calais, I wasn't willing to risk being caught up in something just for four days. And it seemed like a bit too Long a drive up to Ullswater from Essex, again, just for four days.
So, here's hoping Kelling Heath looks after us and the van doesn't get blown over in the wind! :/
We've been there once before with the last motorhome and whilst we had a nice time (weather was great and we did lots of walking over the heathland), the site was a Little too commercial for us. And as a result we haven't been back.
However, in some ways that's the reason we're heading back now. Given the weather was unpredictable when we booked it - it's now looking dreadful and mindful of that, we thought that having a swimming pool, gym/Fitness centre, restaurant & bar and shop all on site meant that we would at least while away rainy days doing something rather than couped up in the van together.
Also, I hadn't appreciated just how difficult it would be to book something in November - it seems most campsites shut down after October half-term.
I was up for going to France, but given all the issues still at Calais, I wasn't willing to risk being caught up in something just for four days. And it seemed like a bit too Long a drive up to Ullswater from Essex, again, just for four days.
So, here's hoping Kelling Heath looks after us and the van doesn't get blown over in the wind! :/
I presume you're all sorted then KT?
I have to confess ours was brilliant at the weekend. Don't want to jinx it but the engine issues are all well behind us now and even managed a PB on the mpg of 24.8mpg on the last trip.
It was incredibly windy up in Norfolk over the weekend, not to mention cold - down to 2degs on Friday night which is where I think blown air heating lets the side down vs. central heating. It's lovely when it kicks in and gives you a burst of warmth, but when it kicks out again, it can begin to feel cooler quite quickly. I imagine with the constant warmth of the CH, it's a lot more cosy. All that said, I'm totally greatful for our Silver Screens thermal cover for the windscreen, which made the cab feel warm and saved us on condensation. Fitted perfectly too and very Little flapping (if any) even during the gales.
That said, we never felt truly cold and equally, in spite of having a 3yr old with us, never felt like we were on top of eachother too. Lots of games of dominoes, snap, colouring, cutting and sticking and iPad watching of films helped.
Also interesting to get to know more about the van too. In the four days we were hooked up, we used c. 3quid in LPG, filled the Thetford Cassette almost daily (we were living in the van and amenities were too far away to hike to all the time) and used 3/4 of the tank of fresh water and obviously filled 3/4 of the grey tank too. Feels like we're well up the learning curve now and also getting to know how to use it more cleverly too.
In short, loving it!
I have to confess ours was brilliant at the weekend. Don't want to jinx it but the engine issues are all well behind us now and even managed a PB on the mpg of 24.8mpg on the last trip.
It was incredibly windy up in Norfolk over the weekend, not to mention cold - down to 2degs on Friday night which is where I think blown air heating lets the side down vs. central heating. It's lovely when it kicks in and gives you a burst of warmth, but when it kicks out again, it can begin to feel cooler quite quickly. I imagine with the constant warmth of the CH, it's a lot more cosy. All that said, I'm totally greatful for our Silver Screens thermal cover for the windscreen, which made the cab feel warm and saved us on condensation. Fitted perfectly too and very Little flapping (if any) even during the gales.
That said, we never felt truly cold and equally, in spite of having a 3yr old with us, never felt like we were on top of eachother too. Lots of games of dominoes, snap, colouring, cutting and sticking and iPad watching of films helped.
Also interesting to get to know more about the van too. In the four days we were hooked up, we used c. 3quid in LPG, filled the Thetford Cassette almost daily (we were living in the van and amenities were too far away to hike to all the time) and used 3/4 of the tank of fresh water and obviously filled 3/4 of the grey tank too. Feels like we're well up the learning curve now and also getting to know how to use it more cleverly too.
In short, loving it!
Sorry to hear of your continued woes, KT. I hope you get it sorted soon (and the senders). It's no concilation I know, but my Uncle had a raft of issues with his from the same place and has only just bedded down most of them - and most with the help of specialist Dealers in France and Scotland. He's vowed to use German Dealers for his Hab work in future and get the warranty claims sorted through Hymer directly. I had heard a rumour from a chap on Hertford campsite who had a Niesman & Bischoff that you can go directly to Hymer HQ and basically buy a Technicians time for a day or so and get them to go over the van with a fine toothcomb and resolve anything which needs resolving and you just pay their Flatrate labour for a day or so - give them a list of things to do and you pay parts costs on top. Probably makes more sense for me rather than you, given the age of yours but I'm going to look into it and see about combining it with a Holiday since I have a number of little niggles still which would be great to have a factory tech resolve (i.e. someone who knows what they're doing!).
But other than that, I am also really pleased I've persevered. Looked pretty bleak back there for while over the summer, but we're now seeing the light and reaping the benefits of the motorhome experience. Just back from Norfolk and will post my adventure on a separate thread.
All well and good and also just posted a Personal Best of 24.8mpg on the Norfolk run! Probably skewed by the prevailing single carriageway route and relatively low cruising Speed of 50mph for the most-part (being a 4.6t on national speed Limit roads) but good to see nearly 25mpg nonetheless!
But other than that, I am also really pleased I've persevered. Looked pretty bleak back there for while over the summer, but we're now seeing the light and reaping the benefits of the motorhome experience. Just back from Norfolk and will post my adventure on a separate thread.
All well and good and also just posted a Personal Best of 24.8mpg on the Norfolk run!
Probably skewed by the prevailing single carriageway route and relatively low cruising Speed of 50mph for the most-part (being a 4.6t on national speed Limit roads) but good to see nearly 25mpg nonetheless!And it was all going so well!!!
We'd been living in Harry off and on for a week or so whilst we had work done on our new house. That was until I went there last week, opened the door and was greeted to the fateful sound of water dripping!
It was coming from the main rooflight, had settled in the facia and I just couldn't get it out. In the end, had to take it to MG caravans who diagnosed it was not just the sealant which has gone but the casing had cracked and we've now had to order in a new rooflight. £550 inc fitting!
Heyho. Hoping 2016 will be more enjoyable and will have less repair bills.
This happened just at the point where Harry felt "like home". So bloody annoying!
We'd been living in Harry off and on for a week or so whilst we had work done on our new house. That was until I went there last week, opened the door and was greeted to the fateful sound of water dripping!
It was coming from the main rooflight, had settled in the facia and I just couldn't get it out. In the end, had to take it to MG caravans who diagnosed it was not just the sealant which has gone but the casing had cracked and we've now had to order in a new rooflight. £550 inc fitting!
Heyho. Hoping 2016 will be more enjoyable and will have less repair bills.
This happened just at the point where Harry felt "like home". So bloody annoying!
Thanks BB - hope you had an enjoyable festive period.
We now have Harry back home and it's a great feeling. We're all settling into the new house well and not having Harry at the bottom of the garden with us just didn't seem right. He's proved his worth already and provided a bed for the night for my Uncle and Aunt last weekend when we had a house full but I've since winterized him since we're in the process of selling my late MiL's house and spending every weekend until the end of Feb doing what's necessary there.
But, in spite of not using him at the moment, the good news is that with having a hookup now at the house, I've been able to do what I'd always hoped and that's having an oil-filled rad placed in there, with the rooflight cracked everso slightly open and I've stripped the bed, moved the mattress, furniture, cushions etc to maximise airflow aswell as propped open wardrobe & bathroom doors so keep the van aired. I popped my head in there the other day and it feels nice and toasty aired rather than cold and uncomfortable as it used to be at the yard.
So, plan for this year:-
- I've just bought a new Hymer Pro 3 bike rack to fit on the back, to replace the one which was dodgy when I bought it. Need to get it on and hope it fits with the existing fittings;
- Exterior needs a deep clean, polish and wax. Easier to do now at home but it's all relative, given the size of it. I'm going to try and rope in the whole Family; but being especially wary of getting my 3yr old to do anything!! :lol:
- Main rooflight (which had leaked) has mould growing on the mosquito netting. I've pulled this across to dry it out, but now need to somehow gently clean this off the netting.
- GET USING IT! I've already booked Easter Weekend at Kelling Heath, since my Birthday falls just before Good Friday and we'll likely try and get out in it early March too. Then it'll be a couple of weekends a month. I have a Boys Mountainbiking Holiday to Wales booked for early June and most likely a 2-3wk July-Summer Holiday down in France as the mainstay of its usage.
Can't wait and hope this year yields less in the way of mechnical trouble / expenditure.
We now have Harry back home and it's a great feeling. We're all settling into the new house well and not having Harry at the bottom of the garden with us just didn't seem right. He's proved his worth already and provided a bed for the night for my Uncle and Aunt last weekend when we had a house full but I've since winterized him since we're in the process of selling my late MiL's house and spending every weekend until the end of Feb doing what's necessary there.
But, in spite of not using him at the moment, the good news is that with having a hookup now at the house, I've been able to do what I'd always hoped and that's having an oil-filled rad placed in there, with the rooflight cracked everso slightly open and I've stripped the bed, moved the mattress, furniture, cushions etc to maximise airflow aswell as propped open wardrobe & bathroom doors so keep the van aired. I popped my head in there the other day and it feels nice and toasty aired rather than cold and uncomfortable as it used to be at the yard.
So, plan for this year:-
- I've just bought a new Hymer Pro 3 bike rack to fit on the back, to replace the one which was dodgy when I bought it. Need to get it on and hope it fits with the existing fittings;
- Exterior needs a deep clean, polish and wax. Easier to do now at home but it's all relative, given the size of it. I'm going to try and rope in the whole Family; but being especially wary of getting my 3yr old to do anything!! :lol:
- Main rooflight (which had leaked) has mould growing on the mosquito netting. I've pulled this across to dry it out, but now need to somehow gently clean this off the netting.
- GET USING IT! I've already booked Easter Weekend at Kelling Heath, since my Birthday falls just before Good Friday and we'll likely try and get out in it early March too. Then it'll be a couple of weekends a month. I have a Boys Mountainbiking Holiday to Wales booked for early June and most likely a 2-3wk July-Summer Holiday down in France as the mainstay of its usage.
Can't wait and hope this year yields less in the way of mechnical trouble / expenditure.
So, had a little time to myself to pay Harry some attention this weekend. Took him out for a 20mile trip locally just to get the engine warm, oil moved around and the wheels turning. Started on the key first time, as usual and although a little noisey from the off he soon settled down into his smooth old self. A joy to drive again and my little'un loved the little run out we did together - her sat proudly in her car seat on the front passenger seat. That was Saturday.
Yesterday afternoon I decided that it was time to give him a wash; something I haven't done since I bought him (aside from a brief Jet Wash experience at the local Petrol station where we lived previously). I got all my gear out (and ladder) and first tackled the Roof. SCARY! My ladder was only 2.5m high, so I was balancing on the top step, whilst steadying myself on the van roof with one Hand whilst brushing with the other hand!!!
But much to my surprise, the roof cleaned up pretty easily with some PH neutral snowfoam left to dwell, followed by a brush with a soft extendable brush soaked in Chemical Guys Extra Gloss Protection shampoo. I did use some Megs APC on the drainage channels to dislodge some moss growth.
The rest of the van was washed with a mixture of brush for the high bits and Lambswool mitt for the rest of the bodywork. Euroliner wheeltrims came up great with some washing up liquid.
Only issue is that the van, although clean, looks a bit "flat". It desperately needs a polish, but don't want to have to go to the extent of polishing and then waxing. I had thought about Autosmart Topaz since I'd heard how good the finish is for not much work, but someone on Classic Hymer FB page has recommended AutoFinesse Tripple which is a surface cleaner, polish and wax in one. I have a bottle of this lurking in the garage so I'll give it a go when time permits.
Other than that, I've been costing up Service work - this year falls a few anniversaries for the Sprinter in the Service book so Harry will be getting new rear diff oil & coolant change on top of the Full Service (inc. fuel filter) and he'll need an aircon Service & recharge too since he's not blowing massively cold air. Thankfully my local Merc Indy has priced everything up for less than 500notes, so I'll be booking him in there, plus getting some new Michelin Agilis tyres fitted due to the Conti VanCos now being >8yrs old in spite of having a good 6mm of tread on them.
Next Weekend will be spent giving him a good deep clean with a steam cleaner inside, going through all the cupboards doing a bit of an audit on what's in there and needs to be and what can be removed, then a gradual recommissioning Phase, which will see me load him up and get him down to the Weighbridge so that I've got some certificates in the cab if I get pulled in the future. I'm totally confident about being within Limits (4.6t chassis) but should at least know what weight I am.
Am enjoying the process of giving him some TLC and getting out for Easter Weekend in him to kick off the year's touring.
Yesterday afternoon I decided that it was time to give him a wash; something I haven't done since I bought him (aside from a brief Jet Wash experience at the local Petrol station where we lived previously). I got all my gear out (and ladder) and first tackled the Roof. SCARY! My ladder was only 2.5m high, so I was balancing on the top step, whilst steadying myself on the van roof with one Hand whilst brushing with the other hand!!!
But much to my surprise, the roof cleaned up pretty easily with some PH neutral snowfoam left to dwell, followed by a brush with a soft extendable brush soaked in Chemical Guys Extra Gloss Protection shampoo. I did use some Megs APC on the drainage channels to dislodge some moss growth. The rest of the van was washed with a mixture of brush for the high bits and Lambswool mitt for the rest of the bodywork. Euroliner wheeltrims came up great with some washing up liquid.
Only issue is that the van, although clean, looks a bit "flat". It desperately needs a polish, but don't want to have to go to the extent of polishing and then waxing. I had thought about Autosmart Topaz since I'd heard how good the finish is for not much work, but someone on Classic Hymer FB page has recommended AutoFinesse Tripple which is a surface cleaner, polish and wax in one. I have a bottle of this lurking in the garage so I'll give it a go when time permits.
Other than that, I've been costing up Service work - this year falls a few anniversaries for the Sprinter in the Service book so Harry will be getting new rear diff oil & coolant change on top of the Full Service (inc. fuel filter) and he'll need an aircon Service & recharge too since he's not blowing massively cold air. Thankfully my local Merc Indy has priced everything up for less than 500notes, so I'll be booking him in there, plus getting some new Michelin Agilis tyres fitted due to the Conti VanCos now being >8yrs old in spite of having a good 6mm of tread on them.
Next Weekend will be spent giving him a good deep clean with a steam cleaner inside, going through all the cupboards doing a bit of an audit on what's in there and needs to be and what can be removed, then a gradual recommissioning Phase, which will see me load him up and get him down to the Weighbridge so that I've got some certificates in the cab if I get pulled in the future. I'm totally confident about being within Limits (4.6t chassis) but should at least know what weight I am.
Am enjoying the process of giving him some TLC and getting out for Easter Weekend in him to kick off the year's touring.
Thanks Simes. Glad you're also enjoying yours and the process of getting it recomissioned.
The Mercedes chassis are brilliant and I'm so glad I held out for one. I had a bit of a discussion with NHW over the whole Fiat & Merc thing and whilst he's right that you need to pick the right layout and van, for me the chassis was as important and the smoothness and tractability of that 5-cylinder lumps just adds to the specialness of the van. Certainly now that the turbo / sensor issue is resolved, I have no issues with the engine side of things and I'm hoping the MOT will be equally as uneventful as yours come April.
The Mercedes chassis are brilliant and I'm so glad I held out for one. I had a bit of a discussion with NHW over the whole Fiat & Merc thing and whilst he's right that you need to pick the right layout and van, for me the chassis was as important and the smoothness and tractability of that 5-cylinder lumps just adds to the specialness of the van. Certainly now that the turbo / sensor issue is resolved, I have no issues with the engine side of things and I'm hoping the MOT will be equally as uneventful as yours come April.
Ggrrr - at the risk of giving Rosscow a laugh (although this one could equally happen to Caravans too! 
), we've now got a problem with the boiler.
Spent the Weekend giving Harry a thorough interior detail ready for the season ahead and more importantly, for the coming Easter Weekend, which is supposed to be up at Kelling Heath.
With the interior looking great, I set about filling the water tank and pressurizing the system given I'm in Germany until Weds evening and didn't fancy doing it all on Thursday night after work. Problem.......every time I opened the hot water taps, water ended up spewing out into the rear wheelarch. I double & triple checked the frost control valve, but that was ok. A lot of prodding around and Internet Surfing later, it turns out I have a faulty air breather valve, which is what lets IN air when the frost control valve seeks to dump the water. Mine seems to be stuck partially open since it's diverting water from filling the boiler and instead dumping half the water flow out of the air breather and half through the taps. Ggggrrr. What's even worse is that this must've been happening slightly for a while. Since I remember when I was having all the issues with Travelworld back in August, this happened and I pointed it out and the Technician told me "the water is coming from a roof drain because it had been valeted!" Given it doesn't have a roof drain, I can only deduce from this that either the Tech doesn't know what he's talking about, or that they just couldn't be bothered to sort it when it was pointed out. Either is plausible and another reason why I won't be going back to Travelworld, EVER!
Anyway, Mrs Spuff has declined to go away this weekend with no hot water or heating, in spite of me offering to take the oil filled rad! So, I'm desperately trying to get my local dealer to source the faulty part and even if they can't fit me in to fit it on Thursday (funnily enough they're rammed busy with people trying to make it away this weekend!), then sell me the part so I can take a stab at fixing it myself.
Bloody hell - if it's not one thing it's another. Was rather looking forward to getting him out and seeing how the new Michelin Agilis tyres are after having 7 new ones fitted last week. But at this rate, he'll not be going anywhere this Weekend.
), we've now got a problem with the boiler.Spent the Weekend giving Harry a thorough interior detail ready for the season ahead and more importantly, for the coming Easter Weekend, which is supposed to be up at Kelling Heath.
With the interior looking great, I set about filling the water tank and pressurizing the system given I'm in Germany until Weds evening and didn't fancy doing it all on Thursday night after work. Problem.......every time I opened the hot water taps, water ended up spewing out into the rear wheelarch. I double & triple checked the frost control valve, but that was ok. A lot of prodding around and Internet Surfing later, it turns out I have a faulty air breather valve, which is what lets IN air when the frost control valve seeks to dump the water. Mine seems to be stuck partially open since it's diverting water from filling the boiler and instead dumping half the water flow out of the air breather and half through the taps. Ggggrrr. What's even worse is that this must've been happening slightly for a while. Since I remember when I was having all the issues with Travelworld back in August, this happened and I pointed it out and the Technician told me "the water is coming from a roof drain because it had been valeted!" Given it doesn't have a roof drain, I can only deduce from this that either the Tech doesn't know what he's talking about, or that they just couldn't be bothered to sort it when it was pointed out. Either is plausible and another reason why I won't be going back to Travelworld, EVER!
Anyway, Mrs Spuff has declined to go away this weekend with no hot water or heating, in spite of me offering to take the oil filled rad! So, I'm desperately trying to get my local dealer to source the faulty part and even if they can't fit me in to fit it on Thursday (funnily enough they're rammed busy with people trying to make it away this weekend!), then sell me the part so I can take a stab at fixing it myself.
Bloody hell - if it's not one thing it's another. Was rather looking forward to getting him out and seeing how the new Michelin Agilis tyres are after having 7 new ones fitted last week. But at this rate, he'll not be going anywhere this Weekend.
Well, good and bad News - good news is the van is back on the road and gave amazing service over the long weekend.
Bad news - not so bad, but as expected, the part in question was 10quid. Which ended up costing an hour of labour to fit, so was markedly more. Gggrrr. If only I'd had the time to do it myself. Anyhoo, the van is back on the road and servicable.
Brilliant weekend away and first of many for this year.
Just ticked over 38k miles, which is 2503 in our ownership in 10months. Not bad considering a good few months of that he was off the road with the Turbo issue last year and this being our first trip of 2016.
Bad news - not so bad, but as expected, the part in question was 10quid. Which ended up costing an hour of labour to fit, so was markedly more. Gggrrr. If only I'd had the time to do it myself. Anyhoo, the van is back on the road and servicable.
Brilliant weekend away and first of many for this year.
Just ticked over 38k miles, which is 2503 in our ownership in 10months. Not bad considering a good few months of that he was off the road with the Turbo issue last year and this being our first trip of 2016.
Thanks Antony, no more pics, but then no more tales of woe either!
Finally some good news and the news I knew we'd eventually get......
Harry passed his MOT yesterday and with no advisories!
As suspected, in spite of all the issues, Harry is rock solid and in great condition. The only issue which came up was as a result of my request to change the brake fluid. Turns out the bleed nipples on 3 of the calipers are seized, so he'll have to go back for a bit of work to unwork those and replace them but no more than 150quids worth according to my mechanic.
Given he was coming up 15yrs this November, the service manual states to replace the rear diff oil. I had this done and can't believe the difference it's made! On the motorway, Harry would be happiest around 60mph with 65mph sounding a little uncomfortable and 70mph downright noisey, boomy and on the overrun, whiny. Yesterday, the whining had disappeared and on the sliproad joining the M11, I saw a very easy 70mph with the previous boomy/noisiness gone. I won't be cruising at that speed, but certainly may avail of a 65mph cruise instead of my usual 58-60mph, which will help with the long distance journeys in France.
All in all, a very happy pup. Had hoped to get away this weekend in him to celebrate, but the weather looks truly miserable for tomorrow. But we'll see how the mood takes us tomorrow.
Oh, and another blot on Travelworlds book, all the parts All Klasse Autos took off yesterday during the servicing were cheap pattern parts. Now given Travelworld serviced the thing last, that's down to them. So much for using Genuine Mercedes parts!
Finally some good news and the news I knew we'd eventually get......
Harry passed his MOT yesterday and with no advisories!
As suspected, in spite of all the issues, Harry is rock solid and in great condition. The only issue which came up was as a result of my request to change the brake fluid. Turns out the bleed nipples on 3 of the calipers are seized, so he'll have to go back for a bit of work to unwork those and replace them but no more than 150quids worth according to my mechanic.
Given he was coming up 15yrs this November, the service manual states to replace the rear diff oil. I had this done and can't believe the difference it's made! On the motorway, Harry would be happiest around 60mph with 65mph sounding a little uncomfortable and 70mph downright noisey, boomy and on the overrun, whiny. Yesterday, the whining had disappeared and on the sliproad joining the M11, I saw a very easy 70mph with the previous boomy/noisiness gone. I won't be cruising at that speed, but certainly may avail of a 65mph cruise instead of my usual 58-60mph, which will help with the long distance journeys in France.
All in all, a very happy pup. Had hoped to get away this weekend in him to celebrate, but the weather looks truly miserable for tomorrow. But we'll see how the mood takes us tomorrow.
Oh, and another blot on Travelworlds book, all the parts All Klasse Autos took off yesterday during the servicing were cheap pattern parts. Now given Travelworld serviced the thing last, that's down to them. So much for using Genuine Mercedes parts!
Well, as things now happen in the 21st century, Facebook pinged me a "Timehop" reminding me that it is coming up 12 months since we bought Harry. Therefore it seemed like an appropriate juncture to have a look at the costs incurred to date and a peek ahead. Also maybe a quick recap of what we've done and how we're using him and whether it would be worth recommending to others who have an itch to scratch.
Let's get the money side of it out of the way first.....
We bought Harry for 25k from Travelworld in Telford. This was 3k discount on the screen price. My view, 12 months on from purchase, is that I wouldn't bother buying from a dealer in future. The support we got was pretty poor to non-existent I think the trick is to buy from a fellow enthusiast and commission third party checks and barter the price accordingly. Although I probably didn't pay much more than I would've done privately in the end, knowing what I did (didn't) get, I'd go private and keep a few k in the bank to cover any issues, if I were to do it again.
That said, although we had a shaky start with Harry and some issues along the way, there is no way any of us want to change him anytime soon. He's the perfect layout for us (which is what matters most) and is now getting to be how we want him. The only thing which would have us change is something more modern and with a "garage" - that would take us into the realms of another 25-30k, which just isn't worth it.
Anyway, I digress. Depreciation - effectively zero. If anything, these trucks are going up in value rather than down and especially with Harry being on a 4.6t chassis, versus the more standard 3.5t, he's a rare old beast and commands a premium amongst those in the know due to the proper carrying capacity.
Now for the real numbers.....
Insurance - 450
VED - 165Tyres - 564 (7 x Michelin Agilis+)
Servicing & Repairs - 1,541
Breakdown - 476
Upgrades - 350
Fuel - 567 (110 gallons @ 24mpg)
Total - 4,113 = 342pcm
Or 2,647miles @ 115p per mile.
Big numbers, but I'd also like to hope that it's going to be one of my most expensive years too. Why do I say that?
Well, as ever, the numbers only tell half the story. Buried in that servicing line is a rather large service - diff oil, aircon servicing and all the filters and oil change. The first item is a once every 15yr job(!), the aircon is obviously not a regular item and the remaining servicing is once every two years. The remainder of that line is the replacement or resealing of two rooflights, which failed due to age. Whilst there will be other age-related defects, those two were quite major and expensive, so I'm budgeting a few hundred quid a year going forwards.
The tyres, well, I'm unlikely to wear them out (as motorhomes do so few miles on average), so they'll do me for the next 8yrs until it's time to replace on time rather than mileage.
That leaves Breakdown - this was the replacement of the turbo transducer right at the start of my ownership. I'm fairly convinced this wasn't at fault at all and only the poor wiring to the boost valve, which was subsequently resolved for just 60quid by an Indy! But nevertheless, I understand they do fail, so I view this as preventative maintenance.
Upgrades - OEM cruise control fitted by Mercedes themselves. This has been the best 350quid I've spent.
The rest is the usual insurance and VED, neither of which I view as being ludicrous given the size/weight of the vehicle. And fuel, also, has been something of a surprise - we're averaging 24mpg, which I think is jolly decent for such a big truck.
So - I've doshed out the thick end of 4k. What a nutter, you might think! Well, actually, I view it as quite good value considering what we have. It wouldn't take much to drop 4k on a very nice family holiday long-haul and although we haven't used Harry as much as we had intended in this first year, we have had him available to us 24/7 and some of the best breaks have been the relatively last-minute ones. That, to me, is a good justification of blowing 4k throughout a year of holidays and not just on 2wks in Florida, for example.
Then there is the outdoors. There is such a permanent connection with your surroundings. When it's sunny and dry, you play outside. When it's wet and cold, you huddle in the warmth of the van - always finding something to do. Nightime is also quite magical with the little'un since it's so intimate with you all being in the same space - getting to hear her softly breathe whilst she's asleep and Mrs Spuff and I can enjoy a relaxing G&T, pint of Stella and a chat without interruptions.
In recent weeks we've learnt to use Harry better. He's fully stocked up and ready to go with most things, with just fresh food and clothing required to turn him around from dormant to travelling in around an hour. The only thing which we haven't worked out yet is how to take care of him the best - he's such a big lump that cleaning him and protecting him from the elements is a BIG job and with a big garden to deal with too, it's quite an undertaking to share the love between the garden, motorhome and family!
We're all booked up for the ferry on 18th June to France for our summer holidays. Unlike last year when Harry was out of service, we fully expect to be on the boat and travelling the 900miles down to near Pontacq over the course of 3-4days. We'll then have a week down there before travelling back up, stopping off en route over 3 days or so. It will be a challenge for us as to how well we manage a lot of driving in something capable of 65mph and how we get on with the French, but given France is brilliantly accommodating of motorhomes, it should be a doddle.
Then there'll be the usual ad hoc trips here and there and maybe even a trip up to NW Scotland later in the year.
Next year is the big one with 6-8wks of touring N Europe and Scandinavia planned. Can't wait for that one.
Relatively minor this time around since I've bitten the bullet on the majority of maintenance issues. There'll always be something which can rear its ugly head, so I've got a good grand tucked away for this purpose and reckon on spending half of this every year just to ensure he's in tip top condition. Like anything, tackling things ahead of time is a good way of reducing overall spend. Never letting it get too bad and nipping it in the bud.
- Audio system - this is something I'm really keen to get done. I have been in touch with AudioFile but it looks like they're massively busy at the moment, so may not get it in place before our travels to France. OK so a good bit of cash at around 1.5k, but it'll be worth it given how much we know Harry is a good unit.
- Leather - the interior leather is beautiful quality but showing its age a bit. It's a bit marked in places and dirty (being cream) so I'm going to be seting myself the target of getting this completely rejuvenated during the next month or so. I have bought AutoFiness leather cleaner & conditioning products and although I've had a go with some microfiber cloths, which have shown good results, I am awaiting a proper leather brush as a lot of the dirt is ingrained and need shifting to properly show it off to best effect. This will probably involve me taking the settee cushions inside and spending my evenings in front of the telly doing this, but it'll be worth it and another round of preventative maintenance. There's a danger if its left any longer then the leather will start cracking in some places.
- Bike rack fitting - I have one bought, just need to pay someone to install it. 180quid budgeted.
- Oven/Grill - one of the most irksome things for the wife is no oven/grill (which is normal for foreign vans - UK ones tend to have them fitted, continentals tend to cook more outside). I'm looking into having one retrofitted before our long trip next year. Could cost up to 1k and we'll loose some cupboard space, but Mrs Spuff would like one, so need to at least properly look into it.
I'd urge anyone with even the slightest itch to have a go and scratch it. If you think you'd like it, chances are you would! (y)
Therefore it seemed like an appropriate juncture to have a look at the costs incurred to date and a peek ahead. Also maybe a quick recap of what we've done and how we're using him and whether it would be worth recommending to others who have an itch to scratch.Let's get the money side of it out of the way first.....
We bought Harry for 25k from Travelworld in Telford. This was 3k discount on the screen price. My view, 12 months on from purchase, is that I wouldn't bother buying from a dealer in future. The support we got was pretty poor to non-existent I think the trick is to buy from a fellow enthusiast and commission third party checks and barter the price accordingly. Although I probably didn't pay much more than I would've done privately in the end, knowing what I did (didn't) get, I'd go private and keep a few k in the bank to cover any issues, if I were to do it again.
That said, although we had a shaky start with Harry and some issues along the way, there is no way any of us want to change him anytime soon. He's the perfect layout for us (which is what matters most) and is now getting to be how we want him. The only thing which would have us change is something more modern and with a "garage" - that would take us into the realms of another 25-30k, which just isn't worth it.
Anyway, I digress. Depreciation - effectively zero. If anything, these trucks are going up in value rather than down and especially with Harry being on a 4.6t chassis, versus the more standard 3.5t, he's a rare old beast and commands a premium amongst those in the know due to the proper carrying capacity.
Now for the real numbers.....
Insurance - 450
VED - 165Tyres - 564 (7 x Michelin Agilis+)
Servicing & Repairs - 1,541
Breakdown - 476
Upgrades - 350
Fuel - 567 (110 gallons @ 24mpg)
Total - 4,113 = 342pcm
Or 2,647miles @ 115p per mile.
Big numbers, but I'd also like to hope that it's going to be one of my most expensive years too. Why do I say that?
Well, as ever, the numbers only tell half the story. Buried in that servicing line is a rather large service - diff oil, aircon servicing and all the filters and oil change. The first item is a once every 15yr job(!), the aircon is obviously not a regular item and the remaining servicing is once every two years. The remainder of that line is the replacement or resealing of two rooflights, which failed due to age. Whilst there will be other age-related defects, those two were quite major and expensive, so I'm budgeting a few hundred quid a year going forwards.
The tyres, well, I'm unlikely to wear them out (as motorhomes do so few miles on average), so they'll do me for the next 8yrs until it's time to replace on time rather than mileage.
That leaves Breakdown - this was the replacement of the turbo transducer right at the start of my ownership. I'm fairly convinced this wasn't at fault at all and only the poor wiring to the boost valve, which was subsequently resolved for just 60quid by an Indy! But nevertheless, I understand they do fail, so I view this as preventative maintenance.
Upgrades - OEM cruise control fitted by Mercedes themselves. This has been the best 350quid I've spent.
The rest is the usual insurance and VED, neither of which I view as being ludicrous given the size/weight of the vehicle. And fuel, also, has been something of a surprise - we're averaging 24mpg, which I think is jolly decent for such a big truck.
So - I've doshed out the thick end of 4k. What a nutter, you might think! Well, actually, I view it as quite good value considering what we have. It wouldn't take much to drop 4k on a very nice family holiday long-haul and although we haven't used Harry as much as we had intended in this first year, we have had him available to us 24/7 and some of the best breaks have been the relatively last-minute ones. That, to me, is a good justification of blowing 4k throughout a year of holidays and not just on 2wks in Florida, for example.
- ******
Then there is the outdoors. There is such a permanent connection with your surroundings. When it's sunny and dry, you play outside. When it's wet and cold, you huddle in the warmth of the van - always finding something to do. Nightime is also quite magical with the little'un since it's so intimate with you all being in the same space - getting to hear her softly breathe whilst she's asleep and Mrs Spuff and I can enjoy a relaxing G&T, pint of Stella and a chat without interruptions.
In recent weeks we've learnt to use Harry better. He's fully stocked up and ready to go with most things, with just fresh food and clothing required to turn him around from dormant to travelling in around an hour. The only thing which we haven't worked out yet is how to take care of him the best - he's such a big lump that cleaning him and protecting him from the elements is a BIG job and with a big garden to deal with too, it's quite an undertaking to share the love between the garden, motorhome and family!
- ******
We're all booked up for the ferry on 18th June to France for our summer holidays. Unlike last year when Harry was out of service, we fully expect to be on the boat and travelling the 900miles down to near Pontacq over the course of 3-4days. We'll then have a week down there before travelling back up, stopping off en route over 3 days or so. It will be a challenge for us as to how well we manage a lot of driving in something capable of 65mph and how we get on with the French, but given France is brilliantly accommodating of motorhomes, it should be a doddle.Then there'll be the usual ad hoc trips here and there and maybe even a trip up to NW Scotland later in the year.
Next year is the big one with 6-8wks of touring N Europe and Scandinavia planned. Can't wait for that one.
- *******
Relatively minor this time around since I've bitten the bullet on the majority of maintenance issues. There'll always be something which can rear its ugly head, so I've got a good grand tucked away for this purpose and reckon on spending half of this every year just to ensure he's in tip top condition. Like anything, tackling things ahead of time is a good way of reducing overall spend. Never letting it get too bad and nipping it in the bud.
- Audio system - this is something I'm really keen to get done. I have been in touch with AudioFile but it looks like they're massively busy at the moment, so may not get it in place before our travels to France. OK so a good bit of cash at around 1.5k, but it'll be worth it given how much we know Harry is a good unit.
- Leather - the interior leather is beautiful quality but showing its age a bit. It's a bit marked in places and dirty (being cream) so I'm going to be seting myself the target of getting this completely rejuvenated during the next month or so. I have bought AutoFiness leather cleaner & conditioning products and although I've had a go with some microfiber cloths, which have shown good results, I am awaiting a proper leather brush as a lot of the dirt is ingrained and need shifting to properly show it off to best effect. This will probably involve me taking the settee cushions inside and spending my evenings in front of the telly doing this, but it'll be worth it and another round of preventative maintenance. There's a danger if its left any longer then the leather will start cracking in some places.
- Bike rack fitting - I have one bought, just need to pay someone to install it. 180quid budgeted.
- Oven/Grill - one of the most irksome things for the wife is no oven/grill (which is normal for foreign vans - UK ones tend to have them fitted, continentals tend to cook more outside). I'm looking into having one retrofitted before our long trip next year. Could cost up to 1k and we'll loose some cupboard space, but Mrs Spuff would like one, so need to at least properly look into it.
- *********
I'd urge anyone with even the slightest itch to have a go and scratch it. If you think you'd like it, chances are you would! (y)
Rightyho - 6 months down the line and I thought I'd update....
Where did I get to with all the To Do's? Well, not very far is the answer!!
- AudioFile install will be scheduled for next year now. The Quote was closer to the 2k mark, so some saving required;
- Leather has been cleaned and conditioned and came up really, really nicely. Used AutoFinesse Hide (both cleaner & conditioner) and made a huge difference. Going to be systematically taking the cushions into the house for another treatment over the winter. A nice little job I can do in the living room whilst watching TV rather than being stuck out in the van doing it;
- Bike Rack - still needs Fitting and gaining in urgency now that our daughter is getting a lot more confident on her balance bike;
- Oven retrofit - this is still on the Agenda but maybe not quite as high a priority as it once was. Taking a sabbatical next year is off the Agenda post-Brexit - due mainly to job uncertainty and finding it somewhat difficult to justify 6wks of unpaid leave!
Harry was the consummate companion on our 2k trip down to the Pyrennes and back in June and has given us a real taste for EU adventures, given how well everything is set up for motorhomes. We haven't used him much for touring since we got back, due to other commitments, but I have been using him as my Home Office for the last two weeks and it's been great to have somewhere to go, at the bottom of the garden, where I'm not disturbed, warm, can make myself a cuppa, go to the loo and work effectively but not remove my 3hr daily commute.
The big news, however, is that Harry will be coming in to his own for holidays soon, since we're on the cusp of collecting our new Family member - Teal:
She's a 14month old Labrador b
h, bred by the Guide Dog Association for their own breeding Programme. She failed her final medical on a rather surprising discovery of minor elbow displasia which only showed up in a routine xray. As such, she's been rejected from the breeding programme and training, so is being rehomed. We pick her up on Friday.
Given the relative "restriction" this will bring to some forms of Holidays, the motorhome will come into its own, since we can take her with us. One of the stipulations we made when we applied for the rehoming Programme was a dog which travels well. We understand she does. We'll take it easy at first and only short journeys but she'll soon get used to our epic trips to NW Scotland and SW France, I'm sure! My Uncle's dog is a seasoned traveller and loves both the motorhome aswell as his i8 and 991 TurboS!!!!
So - all change. And looking forward to the new adventures this will bring for the family and Harry & Teal!
Where did I get to with all the To Do's? Well, not very far is the answer!!
- AudioFile install will be scheduled for next year now. The Quote was closer to the 2k mark, so some saving required;
- Leather has been cleaned and conditioned and came up really, really nicely. Used AutoFinesse Hide (both cleaner & conditioner) and made a huge difference. Going to be systematically taking the cushions into the house for another treatment over the winter. A nice little job I can do in the living room whilst watching TV rather than being stuck out in the van doing it;
- Bike Rack - still needs Fitting and gaining in urgency now that our daughter is getting a lot more confident on her balance bike;
- Oven retrofit - this is still on the Agenda but maybe not quite as high a priority as it once was. Taking a sabbatical next year is off the Agenda post-Brexit - due mainly to job uncertainty and finding it somewhat difficult to justify 6wks of unpaid leave!
Harry was the consummate companion on our 2k trip down to the Pyrennes and back in June and has given us a real taste for EU adventures, given how well everything is set up for motorhomes. We haven't used him much for touring since we got back, due to other commitments, but I have been using him as my Home Office for the last two weeks and it's been great to have somewhere to go, at the bottom of the garden, where I'm not disturbed, warm, can make myself a cuppa, go to the loo and work effectively but not remove my 3hr daily commute.
The big news, however, is that Harry will be coming in to his own for holidays soon, since we're on the cusp of collecting our new Family member - Teal:
She's a 14month old Labrador b
h, bred by the Guide Dog Association for their own breeding Programme. She failed her final medical on a rather surprising discovery of minor elbow displasia which only showed up in a routine xray. As such, she's been rejected from the breeding programme and training, so is being rehomed. We pick her up on Friday. Given the relative "restriction" this will bring to some forms of Holidays, the motorhome will come into its own, since we can take her with us. One of the stipulations we made when we applied for the rehoming Programme was a dog which travels well. We understand she does. We'll take it easy at first and only short journeys but she'll soon get used to our epic trips to NW Scotland and SW France, I'm sure! My Uncle's dog is a seasoned traveller and loves both the motorhome aswell as his i8 and 991 TurboS!!!!
So - all change. And looking forward to the new adventures this will bring for the family and Harry & Teal!
What a difference a few months make. And how Harry is coming into play in a different way to that originally envisaged.....
Very sadly the start to 2017 hasn't been the greatest. My wife decided over Christmas that she wants us to separate, therefore as of mid-Feb, Harry will become my home for up to a year.
Clearly not an ideal situation but I can't tell you how pleased I am that Harry is at least an option. The alternative would've been moving back in with parents (I'm 37 so not an appealing thought) or sleeping on a park bench (even less appealing). But equally not what the intention was when Harry was purchased back two years ago.
So, in preparation for him becoming "home", I've spent a bit of time ensuring he's fit for purpose given he's been used less this year than would've been anticipated. So the list so far:
- very slight cracks in the showertray and bathroom floor all been cleaned and filled with Silkaflex. Looks ok, could've looked better given that although the shower tray was white, it's slightly offwhite, which Shows up the bright white Silkaflex! But I'm investigating the longerterm solution of getting the floor replaced. In the meantime, the main thing is it's watertight;
- instead of retrofitting an oven, I've bought a Remanska slowcooker/halogen oven thing which has rave reviews;
- removed a couple of shelves in some of the cabinets to create space for a Bookshelf of both maintenance manuals and novels;
- bought cargo straps to allow me to secure the oil-filled rad during transit. I'll be taking that with me since it will allow me to save on gas whilst hooked up to the mains at sites. Blown air is fine, but traditional convection warmth is cosier and more effective when it's really cold outside;
- bought a small electric dehumidifier as full-timing I'm sure will result in more moisture in the atmosphere;
- And bought an iPad Pro to be able to keep in touch properly and act as a "TV" for films etc for the evening.
And then sorting out things which I either should've done before or becoming more of a necessity. Will be booked into MG Caravans for the following:
- finally fit the bike rack as I'll try and do more cycling plus may have to cycle to a station;
- sort out one of the gas rings - reckon the thermo-couple has gone. Will need all three to be functional;
- given how critical it will be whilst full-timing, the fridge will be serviced;
- the rooflight in the bathroom has broken. One side will lift, only. Therefore considering (depending on finances) whether this is replaced at the same time too. Not imperative but things like this will niggle when I'm in it every day.
Otherwise I'm kinda set. I at least have the Silver Screens thermal blanket for the windscreen, have a second toilet cassette already too and bought a Wastemaster a few months back for the winter to enable me to leave the grey waste tank valve open in frosty weather.
In some ways being this practical and hands on has helped me to focus on something positive but the sheer fact is, the situation sucks and I've still got the worst ahead of me - having to deal with telling our daughter (who's now just turned 4) and deal with the emotional upheaval for her and me.
Anyway, I'm soon to be a full-timer. I'll probably keep a blog on it for both my own sanity and for anyone who is interested in what it's like living in the van full-time. I say full-time, but I do travel back and forth to Germany every other week anyway, so my time is somewhat limited compared with proper full time. But nevertheless, it will be home for up to 12 months. Not yet sure where exactly to pitch - there is supposed to be a private site with hookup about 15mins from the Family home. I'll try that first, then move on to Cambridge C&CC site once they open in April since that's ideally located for both Family home, near friends, near Great Shelford Train Station (which is on my current train line) and has full facilities for ablutions and washing. We'll see how long they tolerate me there before I have to move somewhere else for a bit.
Truly st.
Very sadly the start to 2017 hasn't been the greatest. My wife decided over Christmas that she wants us to separate, therefore as of mid-Feb, Harry will become my home for up to a year.
Clearly not an ideal situation but I can't tell you how pleased I am that Harry is at least an option. The alternative would've been moving back in with parents (I'm 37 so not an appealing thought) or sleeping on a park bench (even less appealing). But equally not what the intention was when Harry was purchased back two years ago.
So, in preparation for him becoming "home", I've spent a bit of time ensuring he's fit for purpose given he's been used less this year than would've been anticipated. So the list so far:
- very slight cracks in the showertray and bathroom floor all been cleaned and filled with Silkaflex. Looks ok, could've looked better given that although the shower tray was white, it's slightly offwhite, which Shows up the bright white Silkaflex! But I'm investigating the longerterm solution of getting the floor replaced. In the meantime, the main thing is it's watertight;
- instead of retrofitting an oven, I've bought a Remanska slowcooker/halogen oven thing which has rave reviews;
- removed a couple of shelves in some of the cabinets to create space for a Bookshelf of both maintenance manuals and novels;
- bought cargo straps to allow me to secure the oil-filled rad during transit. I'll be taking that with me since it will allow me to save on gas whilst hooked up to the mains at sites. Blown air is fine, but traditional convection warmth is cosier and more effective when it's really cold outside;
- bought a small electric dehumidifier as full-timing I'm sure will result in more moisture in the atmosphere;
- And bought an iPad Pro to be able to keep in touch properly and act as a "TV" for films etc for the evening.
And then sorting out things which I either should've done before or becoming more of a necessity. Will be booked into MG Caravans for the following:
- finally fit the bike rack as I'll try and do more cycling plus may have to cycle to a station;
- sort out one of the gas rings - reckon the thermo-couple has gone. Will need all three to be functional;
- given how critical it will be whilst full-timing, the fridge will be serviced;
- the rooflight in the bathroom has broken. One side will lift, only. Therefore considering (depending on finances) whether this is replaced at the same time too. Not imperative but things like this will niggle when I'm in it every day.
Otherwise I'm kinda set. I at least have the Silver Screens thermal blanket for the windscreen, have a second toilet cassette already too and bought a Wastemaster a few months back for the winter to enable me to leave the grey waste tank valve open in frosty weather.
In some ways being this practical and hands on has helped me to focus on something positive but the sheer fact is, the situation sucks and I've still got the worst ahead of me - having to deal with telling our daughter (who's now just turned 4) and deal with the emotional upheaval for her and me.
Anyway, I'm soon to be a full-timer. I'll probably keep a blog on it for both my own sanity and for anyone who is interested in what it's like living in the van full-time. I say full-time, but I do travel back and forth to Germany every other week anyway, so my time is somewhat limited compared with proper full time. But nevertheless, it will be home for up to 12 months. Not yet sure where exactly to pitch - there is supposed to be a private site with hookup about 15mins from the Family home. I'll try that first, then move on to Cambridge C&CC site once they open in April since that's ideally located for both Family home, near friends, near Great Shelford Train Station (which is on my current train line) and has full facilities for ablutions and washing. We'll see how long they tolerate me there before I have to move somewhere else for a bit.
Truly s
t.Thanks for the support, chaps.
Gonna be a long slog & very sad it's come to this but there's always someone worse off.
Harry will be booked in to MG caravans shortly. TBH, what with everything going on, I don't have enough time presently to sort the things out myself as I need to focus on my little girl right now. But I am planning a few trips too.
I'm a bit constrained both by not wanting to leave it too long between seeing my daughter and wanting to get decent adventures in. And in June I've got a darned stag do in Somerset which starts on 29th June right through to 2nd July. But I'm rather pleased I've managed to book a Dover-Calais Ferry on 25th June and I'll head down the coast to Honfleur and then work my way down the Normandy coast doing the landing beaches etc. before heading on an overnight Ferry from Cherbourg to Poole on 28th/29th June. Only four days, so a bit of a whistle-stop tour, but something different which allows me to combine Somerset with not missing too much of my daughter either. Ferry (inc. cabin on return) was "only" 330quid and will do a decent amount of diesel, but then equally I'll stay in freebie aires and eat cheaply whilst there, so justifiable for my main summer Holiday.
Whilst Harry will be lived in, he still needs to be driven and used as the adventure bus. Can't think of any better adventure than France!
Gonna be a long slog & very sad it's come to this but there's always someone worse off.
Harry will be booked in to MG caravans shortly. TBH, what with everything going on, I don't have enough time presently to sort the things out myself as I need to focus on my little girl right now. But I am planning a few trips too.
I'm a bit constrained both by not wanting to leave it too long between seeing my daughter and wanting to get decent adventures in. And in June I've got a darned stag do in Somerset which starts on 29th June right through to 2nd July. But I'm rather pleased I've managed to book a Dover-Calais Ferry on 25th June and I'll head down the coast to Honfleur and then work my way down the Normandy coast doing the landing beaches etc. before heading on an overnight Ferry from Cherbourg to Poole on 28th/29th June. Only four days, so a bit of a whistle-stop tour, but something different which allows me to combine Somerset with not missing too much of my daughter either. Ferry (inc. cabin on return) was "only" 330quid and will do a decent amount of diesel, but then equally I'll stay in freebie aires and eat cheaply whilst there, so justifiable for my main summer Holiday.
Whilst Harry will be lived in, he still needs to be driven and used as the adventure bus. Can't think of any better adventure than France!
Just when you think you're ahead....
Prepping Harry has so far been going well. Been nice taking time to get to know him better. Yesterday I fitted a Fiamma Hymer Pro bike rack which has been in the shed for a year. Saved myself £200 by doing it myself over having it fitted by local firm. Pat on back and smug for saving money.
So you can imagine my disappointment when I went in the van today to drain the system I primed yesterday with cleaning solution only to find the bathroom filled with water! After mopping up it became obvious it was dripping behind the shower mixer valve, which happens to be situated in the most difficult area for access. So I took apart the bathrooom cabinet which enabled me to get my head in but not much else. (Sigh).
Anyway, water seems to be coming from inside the tap and dripping from the base of it. Best case scenario I need a new cartridge, worst case, new tap!!! Tap is £150 on its own.
At least it's not stopping me from using the van. Plan is for me to move in next sunday and although I can't get it seen to until next Tues, I can use shower blocks at site until it's fixed.
There's always something!!!
Prepping Harry has so far been going well. Been nice taking time to get to know him better. Yesterday I fitted a Fiamma Hymer Pro bike rack which has been in the shed for a year. Saved myself £200 by doing it myself over having it fitted by local firm. Pat on back and smug for saving money.
So you can imagine my disappointment when I went in the van today to drain the system I primed yesterday with cleaning solution only to find the bathroom filled with water! After mopping up it became obvious it was dripping behind the shower mixer valve, which happens to be situated in the most difficult area for access. So I took apart the bathrooom cabinet which enabled me to get my head in but not much else. (Sigh).
Anyway, water seems to be coming from inside the tap and dripping from the base of it. Best case scenario I need a new cartridge, worst case, new tap!!! Tap is £150 on its own.
At least it's not stopping me from using the van. Plan is for me to move in next sunday and although I can't get it seen to until next Tues, I can use shower blocks at site until it's fixed.
There's always something!!!
surveyor said:
Taps in Caravans (and I presume motorhomes) are an absolute swine. I use an adaptor that fits to an air pump that blows all the water out of our system at window. Otherwise water get's trapped, freezes and busts the taps...
Bad luck on this.
Yup - I also reckon it's down to the age of the van. So many little niggles are beginning to show themselves that nothing is surprising me at the moment. Thankfully the Classic Hymers Facebook page has been useful in that a Tech has recommended me the replacement mixer required. 60quid delivered. The other good thing is that even though this is a major issue, a lot of the other niggles can be easily rectified by replacing a screw here and there or tightening things up again.Bad luck on this.
I've provisionally booked it into MG Caravans for them to fit the part. But I will take a look at it again tonight as I've had a brainwave - if I can undo the retaining nut at the top and drop the whole assembly (inc. attached pipes) down and out of the bathroom cupboard before removing the pipes, swapping them over and then reversing the process. I don't think there is any way to remove the pipes in situ as the space is just too tight.
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