WORDS AND IMAGES : PHILIP LORD

Caravans are not like cars , with their complex and vast electronic systems and mechanical components ; they are far simpler devices . No engine , transmission or diff oil changes to worry about , and no filter changes or complex electronic software issues to sort out .

A quick adjustment of the van ’ s brakes and bearings every year or so and you ’ re good to go , right ?

Not really . There are plenty of parts on a caravan that can go wrong and cost you plenty if you don ’ t catch the problem in time .

Here are five basic problems you might find on your van that you hadn ’ t thought of . Your van might not ever have such problems , but if you don ’ t look , you don ’ t know .

Some of these you will notice easily enough when washing your van or setting up camp ; others may require you to crawl under and around your van . These are also areas you should definitely check when looking over a used van that you are considering buying .

1 . SEALANT DEGRADATION

Water damage due to failed sealant is easily the most common problem for a caravan – particularly for aluminium-clad caravans , even relatively new ones . The sealant on exterior joins is prone to developing cracks when exposed to the elements or the sealant

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