GORV - Digital Magazine Issue #26 | Page 4

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 magazine, we’d like to hear it! Email your feedback to info@gorv.com.au 4 \