How much fresh water should we look for in a motorhome
Land cruiser said
08:08 PM Oct 26, 2017
Hi guys. We are totally new to the RV world. We are looking to buy a motor home and travel Australia for two years. Not sure the ratio of camp sites or free camping yet. What size fresh water tank would you recommend?
The Australian RV,s seem to have small fresh water tanks. Is fresh water easy to get?
What is the best quality Australian made motor home? ( don't like the build quality of USA makes)
Any offers of advice would be appreciated
macka17 said
08:17 PM Oct 26, 2017
Volume equates to weight. Equates to balance.
larger the vehicle. higher the volume of load\s.
Fuel. Water. You. etc.
Piece of string mate. But basically.
As much as you can LEGALLY fit while staying within SAFETY limits.
Veh balance etc.
How's that for a politicians answer then.
Absolutely nothing about anything.
Get your rig first. then worry about what and where.
Within the aforementioned limits.
One thing I WOULDN"T buy though. would be a front wheel drive vehicle.
Have fun.
Eaglemax said
08:29 PM Oct 26, 2017
Of course it depends on a lot of factors. When we did our "lap" last year in our 11ft van with shower and porta potti we did it with 84 litres of water. We installed 2x42 litre tanks you can get on ebay that you can keep adding to if you desire.
We stayed in a caravan park on average every 4th night. Sometimes for two nights, do the washing, chill. While free camping we had half a bucket of water each for showers daily (9 litres total) plus usual cooking, coffee, drinking. It was enough for 4-5 days.
That might give you an idea.
Treecrest14 said
09:18 PM Oct 26, 2017
We travelled the eastern seaboard for 3 months. Because we like to free camp, and shower each day, we have 240 kg of water on board. Installed a grey water tank, but most times put the water onto the trees in the area so we were reducing our weight as each day passed.
BUT - it all depends on what you can legally carry!
Aus-Kiwi said
09:34 PM Oct 26, 2017
Our RV is 8m / 6 ton . We carry 250l in out back with extra fresh water in Aldi spring water bottles for drinking . Even though we have double filtered drinking water . We use this for boiling and cooking . The unfiltered is for shower and toilet . Not that thereās anything wrong with normal water . Just careful what we use !! Also 250l grey water . We let that out is the right places .,
-- Edited by Aus-Kiwi on Thursday 26th of October 2017 09:36:34 PM
Peter_n_Margaret said
09:43 PM Oct 26, 2017
Depends entirely on where you intend to travel.
In remote areas water can be harder to find. If you spend a month away from a water supply point (as we often do), then you won't get too many showers (if you have one on board), even with the 280L that we carry.
If you are intending to travel the tourist routes there will be water available on a regular (daily) basis, so the need to carry lots is reduced.
Cheers,
Peter
Philw said
10:26 PM Oct 26, 2017
We carry 200 litres in our motorhome. That gives us 5 nights (ish) with quick showers etc. If you on the east coast or not far inland then there is plenty of water taps available. If were remote travelling we cut our water usage down and can last up to 7 days with bucket wash downs. With regards to the best build. The most popular motorhomes are firstly the Jayco Conquest or Optimum range. Jayco have an excellent warranty support these days. Second most popular is the Avida. It has a roof you can walk on unlike the Jayco. But both are good motorhomes, or at least popular. We have the Jayco Conquest and love it and our friends have the Avida and love theres. However go for the rear wheel drive. These things are trucks. They drive like cars but have tonnage of up to and over 4.5 tonne. So rear duel wheels make for better load carrying capacity and get you out of the slippery stuff. It seems the most popular vehicle model is the Merc Sprinter or the Aveco. Some folk like the VW. But dont know much about them. Just remember that when you are somewhere remote that you need access to mechanics who know the brand type and have available parts. Hence the Sprinter and Aveco. Sort of why so many residents out west drive Toyotas. Lots of parts and every mechanic knows the vehicle. Or should do.
Aus-Kiwi said
10:55 PM Oct 26, 2017
We must be frugal with showers or have larger tanks ? Lol . We have stayed out free camping for up to 3 weeks never actually run out of water . Some air in system which lets us know we are getting low !! Shower or wash every night . Just wet up turn off rub soap or wash liquid all over then wash off., Washing dishes ? We wipe them clean with nappy wipes then wash up in evening . Each to their own . We still enjoy free camping . How far you push being frugal with water usage is up to you . I found the small restrictive shower head better as itās not flooding, more time to wash !! Not that I have much !! Lol
Land cruiser said
09:25 AM Oct 27, 2017
Thanks Everyone for taking the time to reply. All comments very helpful. Philw I have made contact with prestige Jayco in Melbourne and looking at the Conquest Play. Thanks again everyone
Peter_n_Margaret said
09:57 AM Oct 27, 2017
What is the best quality Australian made motor home?
Are you looking to get off the bitumen? Many of the unique places in Australia only have gravel roads, or worse, so that may influence your choice of motorhome significantly. I would presume if you are coming from overseas you would want to see stuff that is different from where you come from, rather than just another bunch of cities and towns, so getting off the bitumen will definitely widen your horizons.
Then it all comes down to the budget and your driver's licenses. A car licence from Europe is only good for 3.5T and not too many motorhomes will be under that. In Australia a car license is good for up to 4.5T, but even that is marginal if you want to carry significant volumes of water and fuel. Most 4WD motorhomes designed for the bush will exceed 4.5T and will need a light truck drivers license. Ours is about 6T fully loaded.
"Best" quality Australian made motorhome built for bitumen roads is possibly the Paradise range http://www.paradisemotorhomes.com.au/ . Jayco would not be on the top 5 list.
In the 4WD "off road" category, your budget will determine the choices.
Cheers,
Peter
macka17 said
11:26 AM Oct 27, 2017
""Jayco would not be on the top 5 list.""
That's a nice way of putting it, When it's a list of 4.
Landfall said
12:58 PM Oct 27, 2017
macka17 wrote:
""Jayco would not be on the top 5 list.""
That's a nice way of putting it, When it's a list of 4.
X 2
It also depends on the size of said motorhome. We have what is considered a small type, a LWB VW LT35 (see photo) able to "free" camp for about five days with regular showers etc. Water is usually available somewhere each day or every other day. sometimes it will be non-potable water in the more remote area which means drinking water is purchased from supermarkets enroute.
We have a water capacity of 120 lts.
Good point about the capability of some mechanics to fix certain brands only, but the clue is get a reliable vehicle, service it regularly making sure the fuel filters are maintained, carry spares and only fill with diesel from high volume outlets.
The smaller size motorhome has certain advantages in that it is more fuel efficient, can be parked in smaller car parking spaces, often able to go where the larger motorhomes cannot get.
Downsize is carrying capacity and living space.
PeterInSa said
05:32 PM Oct 27, 2017
Having attended a number of CMCA (Campervan and Motorhome Club of OZ) rallies, to me the most popular Mh is the Jayco range on a Fiat chassis. From memory on a Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis with rear wheel drive the mh could cost up to $10K more.
Landfall and P n M have good points also that should be considered, a Long wheel Base Sprinter Campervan, will get you into places that a conventional MH will not reach especially if the campervan is a 4 x 4. Sprinters also come in extra long wheel base models.
Some organisations if you are coming from overseas will sell you the RV and buy it back prior to your return home. Sydney RV could be such and organisation. ( No connection other than a happy customer)
Peter
wal1 said
08:38 PM Oct 27, 2017
Macka old son,
Once again your dribbling S##t, and again having total disregard to what happens outside of you legal opiate and single malt induced sense of knowing it all and telling the world.
I have a seven year old motor home, an ex rental. These were produced by Jayco for the rental market, and have no frills or bells and whistles, as such were probably produced to a price. This motor home is on a Mercedes Sprinter chassis ( with dual wheels). Apart from the rental company, we are the third owners, and guess what? It is still in one piece, having done a total of 160,000 km ( 45,000 of those towing a Suzuki). So I do not see your dribble as been in the least relevant to Jayco.
Further your "superior than thou" attitude wears a bit thin after a while. When you think you are sailing close to the wind, you make a self serving groveling reference to "Cindy" and then carry on on your merry way. You seem to have a thick skin, and when challenged, ignore negatives. Lots of posters have made some pointed comments about you.
Some may say if I dont like what you post, ignore you. Fair point, but you are over the forum like mould on a fourty year old caravan.
So back on track, I cant see any problems with the Jayco that I own.
Oh, and by the way, are you up to speed on "defamation", just in case have a quick read.
Under common law, to constitute defamation, a claim must generally be false and must have been made to someone other than the person defamed. Some common law jurisdictions also distinguish between spoken defamation, called slander, and defamationin other media such as printed words or images, called libel.
Wal
Eaglemax said
11:53 PM Oct 27, 2017
Wal1. If your post above is referring to mackas comments on this thread only, then I think you have over reacted.
Defamation is one thing, having an opinion is another. Mackas first post is informative and opinionated. His view on front wheel drive MH is relevant. I truly cannot see anything wrong with his post.
His next post was, admittedly sarcastic to Jayco and not needed.
I found your post hurtful. "Mould on a 40yo caravan" ? amongst other descriptions was uncalled for and abusive. This country is filled with lonely older people with a wealth of knowledge eager to pass onto others. Its their life. Ive found (once I got used to his writing style) to have found his comments informative albeit a little off topic at times. But I'd rather read his "dribble" anyday than tolerate your abuse.
Ozzie_Traveller said
10:45 AM Oct 28, 2017
Land cruiser wrote:
Hi guys. We are totally new to the RV world. We are looking to buy a motor home and travel Australia for two years. Not sure the ratio of camp sites or free camping yet. What size fresh water tank would you recommend? The Australian RV,s seem to have small fresh water tanks. Is fresh water easy to get? What is the best quality Australian made motor home? ( don't like the build quality of USA makes) Any offers of advice would be appreciated
G'day mate
To add to earlier comments - yes a lot depends upon your travelling target destination / district [coastal vs outback] and so on
Our 15yr old MH is a Sunliner on a Ford transit chassis, now with well over 400,000km on the dial and still going strong. We are on the road for 8-9 months annually. We have a 100Lt fresh water tank which usually lasts us 4 or 5 days without any issues, as we have installed a 5-star water saver shower head [amongst other bits]
Replacement water is obtained from many sources ... fuel stops where we get fuel + water; town showgrounds; town information centres and so on. All across Oz any town water is council-certified to be healthy drinking water regardless of where the water source is [river vs underground]
I personally would not be worried about getting a MH with "only" 100-130Lt of fresh water on board - and if ever needing more, it's easy to buy a 20Lt plastic container for a bit extra
Hope this helps, Phil
Land cruiser said
01:08 PM Oct 28, 2017
Thanks again guys for the additional info. We are now looking at the Paradise Inspiration as a result of Peter_n_Margaret's comment above. We are looking at putting in an additional tank giving us 256 lt of water plus another tank of 70lt just fir drinking water.
macka17 said
03:19 PM Oct 28, 2017
Thank's Max. Just ignore them I do.(Mostly) It just shows their lack on brain material. stooping down there.
Sunliner have a good rep for a loong time. They and Paradise would be safe. Jayco. Well. They have very good aftersales service. For a reason.
Read up on why. Go back 35 (40) yrs or so. To where they did make good solid vans. and b4 the "get 'em off the line and out the door" Mentality set in. There's been too many cupboards dropping. Fibreglass walls splitting. Roofs collapsing. Wiring. NON proper assembly of parts for it to be non existent.
It's NOT my comments on them. Everybody involved with vans over last 40 odd yrs Apart from a few one eyed (Roadstar?). Owners, maybe They've been a talking point for decades.
WHEN they do become better value again. They'll still have a lot of bad memory's. (Like Jeep and others) to overcome first. Patrol 3 ltrs with Oilway and Internal heating problems. 5th gear Layshaft splines in ONE batch. Pressed tops letting go on Intercoolers. Exh Manifolds warping.
Ladcruisers with 100 ser Front suspensions dropping out onto the road in front of them. Burning pistons. Transmissions. etc. Mitzi's with gearboxes Early. They all have\had problems. Just that some stand out and are more of. Than others.
With the choices of and volumes of nowadays. just stick to the KNOWN reputable. Least problem vans\cars. leave the rest to the others. Jayco's call sign is CHEAP. CHEAP. come and get one. We'll fix it for you. Eventually.
Anyway. They'll only jump down my throat again so I'm Bolting. See Ya.
Landcruiser.
I made a Stainless 60ish ltr tank for under sink with a double filter through line for it.
Either clean water. or good "other tank" water only, through filters.
I also always travelled empty tanks (320ish ltrs.) and just a 20 ltr in tray of ute.
Till we got there. THEN top up.
-- Edited by macka17 on Saturday 28th of October 2017 03:28:05 PM
PeterInSa said
03:30 PM Oct 28, 2017
The Paradise Inspiration Supreme Black addition looks great. One comment that I would make, the GVM may well be over 4.5 t and if so cannot be driven on OZ roads with a normal car licence, a higher level licence required if over 4.5t.
Ive just read through these posts. Some good informative information and oh boy, haven't some of you let fly. Firstly may I say this is disappointing. We are all I presume of similar ages or so and a wealth of experience with a vast array of knowledge over a broad range. We havedifferent viewpoints and opinions about life, politics and our vans or motorhomes. Ive had 3 Jaycos and have been delighted with them all. Mates who have different brands and love them and some who swear to never touch a certain brand again. What we dont need on here is a little war of words and personal opinion or veiled threats. This makes this forum dysfunctional and valueless. The folk who started this topic in good faith were after the wisdom and experience of the group. I hope they found what they were looking for but it is disappionting that as a group we have abused this query in this fashion. To them I say I am sorry this has happened.
On a personal level, I really like the layout of the new Conquest Play. It is a style that I think makes clever use of limited space in a brand, Jayco and Mercedes, that I enjoy. But we have a 5 year old Conquest on a Merc base and that is the vehicle I will keep until age or fate intervene. Dont know much about the Paradise but know that the beauty of this lifestyle in the golden years of our life sees and myriad of setups, makes, vehicles and rigs of every shape and size. Thus suiting every persons individual likes, needs and wants.
So to finish up folks. Remember that this is the time of our lives when we should be experiencing the best time of our lives. Sure it is a time of age, and the range of infirmities that go with getting older but hey....we do t have to go to work anymore. We dont have to set the alarm clock. Breakfast in bed is a daily possibility not a rare event. Sitting around the campfire under a million star hotel is our reward for the effort we have made in helping to build this wonderful nation. So lets drop the crap hey. We dont need it, we dont deserve it and none of us want it. Cheers all.
Eaglemax said
08:49 AM Oct 29, 2017
Hi Phil. While your post has good intent but its too general i.e its levelled at all. People have a right to an opinion and if they are humiliated for having such opinion in the way Macka is/was then if I feel like coming to his aid over bullying I'll do it.
If you are seeking a sanitized exchange of comments where no one has conflict then forums arent for you. The saying goes "evil flourishes when good men do nothing". I wont sit back and allow abuse to flourish or do you think we should?. There was no need for Wal1's nasty description of another member that deserved redress. Please direct your comments to the abuser.
Woody n Sue said
09:31 AM Oct 29, 2017
Hi Landcruiser who would have thought that such a simple question would have stirred up such a hornets nest of replies !
How much water to cary it seems from 120 of litres to however much you want while keeping in mind your overall weight (GVM)
And if you are going to tow a car / trailer your (GCM )
As for which make well............ now that's an interesting one isn't it "....... seems there as many opinions as there makes and models ,
Probably the first thing that would be on my list would be the layout inside the MH after all that's where you are going to be living , then get it put on the make of truck you like now that's where it gets controversial and personal opinions can get heated it's a bit like the Holden V ford thing there's been good ones and bad ones in both camps same with MH trucks, it's really a personal thing and perhaps where you think you might like to go.
Ok then points I have gleaned in my time, take it or leave it it's up to you .
Front wheel drives seem to be easily stuck off the black top , need to be careful where you go/ park and be mindful if it might rain.
They are also potentially dearer to fix if you are unfortunate enough to have a close encounter with Australian wild life , however this is covered by insurance .
Some say and I haven't researched so I don't know personally, that rear wheel drives are dearer to buy ?
But will usually go further off the blacktop.
My humble opinion my choice would be a rear wheel drive, which make well now that's a hard one isn't it in two wheel drive my choice and it's only my choice, would be an Iveco daily .
In the 4X4 lineup in MH size there not too many to pick from anyway but I am waiting to lay my eyes on the new hino due in AU shortly over the mitsy mostly due to a bigger engine and better torque , I'm old school as there is no substitute for cubes in my mind .
Personally I'm a fifth wheeler kinda guy due to safety when towing and versatility when camped up , next would be a MH last on my list would be a car n van far too unstable with a small shift in weight distribution and wind shear when passing big trucks on the road .
There are certainly a lot of caravan accidents these days ( crickey especially on that Bruce's highway in Qld would love to know why it seems to be so over represented in the van accident stakes ) now readers don't rip my bloody arms off yet, I know there are a lot more car n van setups on the road so i I will say it would be very interesting to know the breakdown % wise for the car n van V MH V fifth wheelers having stacks in relation to the numbers of each of them on the road .
Ok that's it for my two bobs worth , it just my opinion, others can disagree but that doesn't mean that they are right either, and no doubt others will disagree with some of my points, but that's what makes us individuals not sheep hey .
Woody
PeterInSa said
10:09 AM Oct 29, 2017
Re (And if you are going to tow a car / trailer your (GCM )
Overnighted with another motorhome owner recently, they were in the process of selling their MH, had a possible buyer until the poss. buyer found out the mh chassis did not go the the rear of the mh ( it was not a Paradise MH)and the buyer could not install a towbar to A Frame an small Suzie 4 x4 unless he outlayed $10K+ for modifications, so the sale fell thru.
In the light of this LC, with any MH purchase I would confirm that a Towbar can be fitted allowing you to A frame/Trailer a small car and the combo can fit within the GCM of the motorhome. Will help if you decide on a small run about vehicle in the future as well as with resale.
Peter
Woody n Sue said
01:10 PM Oct 29, 2017
Interesting point Peter something I had not considered one assumes the chassis goes all the way to the rear , your post is confirmation that one should never assume anything .
Woody
Leo said
03:38 PM Oct 29, 2017
Delete. A bit away from the original post topic
-- Edited by Leo on Sunday 29th of October 2017 03:42:16 PM
Peter_n_Margaret said
05:50 PM Oct 29, 2017
Fiats leave the factory as a pair of cabs (with front wheels only) bolted together back to back. The chassis finishes 300mm behind the cab. The motorhome manufacturer does the rest. This is why they are cheap and why the motorhome manufacturers like them - they can do whatever they like with the design behind the cab and the rear of each can be the minimum required for the particular van. Alco make a series of light chassis with suspension that simply bolt onto the factory bit, others in Europe make their own.
Cheers, Peter
-- Edited by Peter_n_Margaret on Sunday 29th of October 2017 05:51:00 PM
mr glassies said
10:57 PM Oct 29, 2017
We get spoilt as far as water goes . We have stopped in a van park a few times so far since leaving Brisbane area in feb . We can carry 500 odd lots of water but that puts me well over weight . So I only travel with 1 tank in the van filled most times . Also have a 120 ltr bag on the back floor so we can stay a fair wile if we skip a full shower for every second night . We also carry 40 mtrs of garden irrigation pipe have a spair 7 ltr a min pump and a good filter . I was lucky to score 3x50 amp lithium at were for the bow thruster in my tinny lol . So when we're beside a river or dam/lake we run that water for showers washing cloths and washing up . And save the tank water and car bag for only drinking that gives us about 8 weeks without looking for good water . I can fill each tank seperate and pull from each tank as needed so I can look after weights as we go.
Dibs
-- Edited by mr glassies on Sunday 29th of October 2017 11:02:00 PM
sandgrooper1 said
02:33 PM Oct 30, 2017
Howdy,
Re Macka and his posts, I enjoy them.......its like doing a cryptic crossword trying to figure out what is being said, but, I for one have no problem with them.
Wal, you just need to have a bit of patience and realise we are not all the same and let what irritates you go through to the keeper. Your post re Macka was somewhat over the top unfriendly and I hope/perhaps it was a reflection of you having a bad day.
Regards AL
Land cruiser said
07:10 PM Oct 30, 2017
Once again thanks everyone for your contributions and comments. This is my first post ever, anywhere anD I have to admit at one stage there wondered what the hell I had opened up!!
I have got my water sorted now as a result. I am going with 2 X 125 litre tanks for general water and another 70 litre for drinking water. Yes I know I will now be over 4500 kg.
I am now concentrating on what air conditioning unit to buy?
Do I want to fit a auto level in kit
And are looking at what generator set to use. Wanting a diesel one so I can hook up to the MH tank
I think this calls for another post?
Feel free to post on this but please only bring pleasent thoughts to this one!
Tony Bev said
10:33 PM Oct 31, 2017
Welcome to the forum, Land cruiser
In a normal situation, most of us are friendly and helpful people
Although you have already decided on the amount of water you will carry
As we are all different, with different travel destinations, then as others have said, we all carry different amounts of water
In my situation of just travelling on the bitumen roads, and staying mainly in free camps
My vehicle had a fresh water tank of 80 litres, plus I carried another 30 litres in 2 x 15 litre containers, travelling on my own this was sufficient for my needs
With the wife travelling with me, we were running low, crossing the Nullarbor
I fitted another 60 litre tank, plus the 30 litres in the containers
I gave away one of the 15 litre containers, to someone who needed it more than me, as he had a leaking radiator
I have never bothered to renew the 15 litre container
I now have 80 + 60 + 15 = 155 litres, which seems to be enough, as I have never had to pour the 15 litre into the tanks
That 155 litres is only used for showers, cooking, etc
Hi guys. We are totally new to the RV world. We are looking to buy a motor home and travel Australia for two years. Not sure the ratio of camp sites or free camping yet. What size fresh water tank would you recommend?
The Australian RV,s seem to have small fresh water tanks. Is fresh water easy to get?
What is the best quality Australian made motor home? ( don't like the build quality of USA makes)
Any offers of advice would be appreciated
larger the vehicle. higher the volume of load\s.
Fuel. Water. You. etc.
Piece of string mate. But basically.
As much as you can LEGALLY fit while staying within SAFETY limits.
Veh balance etc.
How's that for a politicians answer then.
Absolutely nothing about anything.
Get your rig first. then worry about what and where.
Within the aforementioned limits.
One thing I WOULDN"T buy though. would be a front wheel drive vehicle.
Have fun.
BUT - it all depends on what you can legally carry!
Our RV is 8m / 6 ton . We carry 250l in out back with extra fresh water in Aldi spring water bottles for drinking . Even though we have double filtered drinking water . We use this for boiling and cooking . The unfiltered is for shower and toilet . Not that thereās anything wrong with normal water . Just careful what we use !! Also 250l grey water . We let that out is the right places .,
-- Edited by Aus-Kiwi on Thursday 26th of October 2017 09:36:34 PM
In remote areas water can be harder to find. If you spend a month away from a water supply point (as we often do), then you won't get too many showers (if you have one on board), even with the 280L that we carry.
If you are intending to travel the tourist routes there will be water available on a regular (daily) basis, so the need to carry lots is reduced.
Cheers,
Peter
Are you looking to get off the bitumen? Many of the unique places in Australia only have gravel roads, or worse, so that may influence your choice of motorhome significantly. I would presume if you are coming from overseas you would want to see stuff that is different from where you come from, rather than just another bunch of cities and towns, so getting off the bitumen will definitely widen your horizons.
Then it all comes down to the budget and your driver's licenses. A car licence from Europe is only good for 3.5T and not too many motorhomes will be under that. In Australia a car license is good for up to 4.5T, but even that is marginal if you want to carry significant volumes of water and fuel. Most 4WD motorhomes designed for the bush will exceed 4.5T and will need a light truck drivers license. Ours is about 6T fully loaded.
"Best" quality Australian made motorhome built for bitumen roads is possibly the Paradise range http://www.paradisemotorhomes.com.au/ . Jayco would not be on the top 5 list.
In the 4WD "off road" category, your budget will determine the choices.
Cheers,
Peter
""Jayco would not be on the top 5 list.""
That's a nice way of putting it, When it's a list of 4.
X 2
It also depends on the size of said motorhome. We have what is considered a small type, a LWB VW LT35 (see photo) able to "free" camp for about five days with regular showers etc. Water is usually available somewhere each day or every other day. sometimes it will be non-potable water in the more remote area which means drinking water is purchased from supermarkets enroute.
We have a water capacity of 120 lts.
Good point about the capability of some mechanics to fix certain brands only, but the clue is get a reliable vehicle, service it regularly making sure the fuel filters are maintained, carry spares and only fill with diesel from high volume outlets.
The smaller size motorhome has certain advantages in that it is more fuel efficient, can be parked in smaller car parking spaces, often able to go where the larger motorhomes cannot get.
Downsize is carrying capacity and living space.
Landfall and P n M have good points also that should be considered, a Long wheel Base Sprinter Campervan, will get you into places that a conventional MH will not reach especially if the campervan is a 4 x 4. Sprinters also come in extra long wheel base models.
Some organisations if you are coming from overseas will sell you the RV and buy it back prior to your return home. Sydney RV could be such and organisation. ( No connection other than a happy customer)
Peter
Macka old son,
Once again your dribbling S##t, and again having total disregard to what happens outside of you legal opiate and single malt induced sense of knowing it all and telling the world.
I have a seven year old motor home, an ex rental. These were produced by Jayco for the rental market, and have no frills or bells and whistles, as such were probably produced to a price. This motor home is on a Mercedes Sprinter chassis ( with dual wheels). Apart from the rental company, we are the third owners, and guess what? It is still in one piece, having done a total of 160,000 km ( 45,000 of those towing a Suzuki). So I do not see your dribble as been in the least relevant to Jayco.
Further your "superior than thou" attitude wears a bit thin after a while. When you think you are sailing close to the wind, you make a self serving groveling reference to "Cindy" and then carry on on your merry way. You seem to have a thick skin, and when challenged, ignore negatives. Lots of posters have made some pointed comments about you.
Some may say if I dont like what you post, ignore you. Fair point, but you are over the forum like mould on a fourty year old caravan.
So back on track, I cant see any problems with the Jayco that I own.
Oh, and by the way, are you up to speed on "defamation", just in case have a quick read.
Under common law, to constitute defamation, a claim must generally be false and must have been made to someone other than the person defamed. Some common law jurisdictions also distinguish between spoken defamation, called slander, and defamationin other media such as printed words or images, called libel.
Wal
G'day mate
To add to earlier comments - yes a lot depends upon your travelling target destination / district [coastal vs outback] and so on
Our 15yr old MH is a Sunliner on a Ford transit chassis, now with well over 400,000km on the dial and still going strong. We are on the road for 8-9 months annually. We have a 100Lt fresh water tank which usually lasts us 4 or 5 days without any issues, as we have installed a 5-star water saver shower head [amongst other bits]
Replacement water is obtained from many sources ... fuel stops where we get fuel + water; town showgrounds; town information centres and so on. All across Oz any town water is council-certified to be healthy drinking water regardless of where the water source is [river vs underground]
I personally would not be worried about getting a MH with "only" 100-130Lt of fresh water on board - and if ever needing more, it's easy to buy a 20Lt plastic container for a bit extra
Hope this helps, Phil
Thank's Max. Just ignore them I do.(Mostly)
It just shows their lack on brain material. stooping down there.
Sunliner have a good rep for a loong time. They and Paradise would be safe.
Jayco. Well.
They have very good aftersales service.
For a reason.
Read up on why. Go back 35 (40) yrs or so. To where they did make good solid vans.
and b4 the "get 'em off the line and out the door"
Mentality set in.
There's been too many cupboards dropping. Fibreglass walls splitting. Roofs collapsing.
Wiring. NON proper assembly of parts for it to be non existent.
It's NOT my comments on them. Everybody involved with vans over last 40 odd yrs
Apart from a few one eyed (Roadstar?). Owners, maybe
They've been a talking point for decades.
WHEN they do become better value again. They'll still have a lot of bad memory's. (Like Jeep and others)
to overcome first.
Patrol 3 ltrs with Oilway and Internal heating problems. 5th gear Layshaft splines in ONE batch.
Pressed tops letting go on Intercoolers. Exh Manifolds warping.
Ladcruisers with 100 ser Front suspensions dropping out onto the road in front of them. Burning pistons. Transmissions. etc. Mitzi's with gearboxes Early.
They all have\had problems. Just that some stand out and are more of. Than others.
With the choices of and volumes of nowadays.
just stick to the KNOWN reputable. Least problem vans\cars.
leave the rest to the others.
Jayco's call sign is CHEAP. CHEAP. come and get one. We'll fix it for you.
Eventually.
Anyway. They'll only jump down my throat again so I'm Bolting. See Ya.
Landcruiser.
I made a Stainless 60ish ltr tank for under sink with a double filter through line for it.
Either clean water. or good "other tank" water only, through filters.
I also always travelled empty tanks (320ish ltrs.) and just a 20 ltr in tray of ute.
Till we got there. THEN top up.
-- Edited by macka17 on Saturday 28th of October 2017 03:28:05 PM
www.paradisemotorhomes.com.au/inspiration-series-2013
Peter
How much water to cary it seems from 120 of litres to however much you want while keeping in mind your overall weight (GVM)
And if you are going to tow a car / trailer your (GCM )
As for which make well............ now that's an interesting one isn't it "....... seems there as many opinions as there makes and models ,
Probably the first thing that would be on my list would be the layout inside the MH after all that's where you are going to be living , then get it put on the make of truck you like now that's where it gets controversial and personal opinions can get heated it's a bit like the Holden V ford thing there's been good ones and bad ones in both camps same with MH trucks, it's really a personal thing and perhaps where you think you might like to go.
Ok then points I have gleaned in my time, take it or leave it it's up to you .
Front wheel drives seem to be easily stuck off the black top , need to be careful where you go/ park and be mindful if it might rain.
They are also potentially dearer to fix if you are unfortunate enough to have a close encounter with Australian wild life , however this is covered by insurance .
Some say and I haven't researched so I don't know personally, that rear wheel drives are dearer to buy ?
But will usually go further off the blacktop.
My humble opinion my choice would be a rear wheel drive, which make well now that's a hard one isn't it in two wheel drive my choice and it's only my choice, would be an Iveco daily .
In the 4X4 lineup in MH size there not too many to pick from anyway but I am waiting to lay my eyes on the new hino due in AU shortly over the mitsy mostly due to a bigger engine and better torque , I'm old school as there is no substitute for cubes in my mind .
Personally I'm a fifth wheeler kinda guy due to safety when towing and versatility when camped up , next would be a MH last on my list would be a car n van far too unstable with a small shift in weight distribution and wind shear when passing big trucks on the road .
There are certainly a lot of caravan accidents these days ( crickey especially on that Bruce's highway in Qld would love to know why it seems to be so over represented in the van accident stakes ) now readers don't rip my bloody arms off yet, I know there are a lot more car n van setups on the road so i I will say it would be very interesting to know the breakdown % wise for the car n van V MH V fifth wheelers having stacks in relation to the numbers of each of them on the road .
Ok that's it for my two bobs worth , it just my opinion, others can disagree but that doesn't mean that they are right either, and no doubt others will disagree with some of my points, but that's what makes us individuals not sheep hey .
Woody
Overnighted with another motorhome owner recently, they were in the process of selling their MH, had a possible buyer until the poss. buyer found out the mh chassis did not go the the rear of the mh ( it was not a Paradise MH)and the buyer could not install a towbar to A Frame an small Suzie 4 x4 unless he outlayed $10K+ for modifications, so the sale fell thru.
In the light of this LC, with any MH purchase I would confirm that a Towbar can be fitted allowing you to A frame/Trailer a small car and the combo can fit within the GCM of the motorhome. Will help if you decide on a small run about vehicle in the future as well as with resale.
Peter
Woody
Delete. A bit away from the original post topic
-- Edited by Leo on Sunday 29th of October 2017 03:42:16 PM
Fiats leave the factory as a pair of cabs (with front wheels only) bolted together back to back. The chassis finishes 300mm behind the cab.
The motorhome manufacturer does the rest. This is why they are cheap and why the motorhome manufacturers like them - they can do whatever they like with the design behind the cab and the rear of each can be the minimum required for the particular van. Alco make a series of light chassis with suspension that simply bolt onto the factory bit, others in Europe make their own.
Cheers,
Peter
-- Edited by Peter_n_Margaret on Sunday 29th of October 2017 05:51:00 PM
We get spoilt as far as water goes . We have stopped in a van park a few times so far since leaving Brisbane area in feb .
We can carry 500 odd lots of water but that puts me well over weight . So I only travel with 1 tank in the van filled most times . Also have a 120 ltr bag on the back floor so we can stay a fair wile if we skip a full shower for every second night . We also carry 40 mtrs of garden irrigation pipe have a spair 7 ltr a min pump and a good filter . I was lucky to score 3x50 amp lithium at were for the bow thruster in my tinny lol . So when we're beside a river or dam/lake we run that water for showers washing cloths and washing up . And save the tank water and car bag for only drinking that gives us about 8 weeks without looking for good water . I can fill each tank seperate and pull from each tank as needed so I can look after weights as we go.
Dibs
-- Edited by mr glassies on Sunday 29th of October 2017 11:02:00 PM
Re Macka and his posts, I enjoy them.......its like doing a cryptic crossword trying to figure out what is being said, but, I for one have no problem with them.
Wal, you just need to have a bit of patience and realise we are not all the same and let what irritates you go through to the keeper. Your post re Macka was somewhat over the top unfriendly and I hope/perhaps it was a reflection of you having a bad day.
Regards AL
I have got my water sorted now as a result. I am going with 2 X 125 litre tanks for general water and another 70 litre for drinking water. Yes I know I will now be over 4500 kg.
I am now concentrating on what air conditioning unit to buy?
Do I want to fit a auto level in kit
And are looking at what generator set to use. Wanting a diesel one so I can hook up to the MH tank
I think this calls for another post?
Feel free to post on this but please only bring pleasent thoughts to this one!
In a normal situation, most of us are friendly and helpful people
Although you have already decided on the amount of water you will carry
As we are all different, with different travel destinations, then as others have said, we all carry different amounts of water
In my situation of just travelling on the bitumen roads, and staying mainly in free camps
My vehicle had a fresh water tank of 80 litres, plus I carried another 30 litres in 2 x 15 litre containers, travelling on my own this was sufficient for my needs
With the wife travelling with me, we were running low, crossing the Nullarbor
I fitted another 60 litre tank, plus the 30 litres in the containers
I gave away one of the 15 litre containers, to someone who needed it more than me, as he had a leaking radiator
I have never bothered to renew the 15 litre container
I now have 80 + 60 + 15 = 155 litres, which seems to be enough, as I have never had to pour the 15 litre into the tanks
That 155 litres is only used for showers, cooking, etc
For cold drinking water, I buy bottled water