Took delivery of my Birdsville 2 years ago and hung the spare keys in the cupboard. Had cause to move them a couple of days ago and for ease went to use then to open the storage locker. The spare key is uncut, just a blank. As I had the original it did not cause a problem, but it could have done. It may only be a freak one off, but may we worth checking your spare keys just to be on the safe side.
I saw that you were awaiting delivery of your Birdsville.
I love the Ducato, it's a joy to drive.
The front suspension had to be upgraded using King springs but that was well worth the cost.
(see forum for full details, use JCT as a search).
I have had minor problems with the Winnebago side if the unit, many of which should not have happened if quality control had done their job properly. The awning was replaced, floor strengthened and some replaced, grey water sensors replaced numerous times (have now given up on those), computor board replaced, water taps replaced three times at sink and twice at wash basin and electric door steps replaced. All these were done under warantee, but that has now expired.
I would however still by the Birdsville Elite 2484 again as I like the layout.
After speaking to numerous owners of various makes of motorhomes I am of the opinion that none are without some minor problems at the outset. I hope you don't think it is all doom and gloom, but expect some minor hiccups along the way.
As far as extras are concerned I had solar panels added and an extra domestic battery installed. I carry a second gas bottle (only space for one in the original unit). I have installed a Webasto heating system and carried out lots of minor improvements to suit my needs.
I hope you enjoy your travels and that we may meet up sometime for a drink.
Its a good idea to have extra copies of your keys cut, and keep a set of originals somewhere safe. If you lose the copies its a lot easier to get more cut from originals than copies.
Another good idea is to put your mobile phone number on your key-ring. Twice we have had a call from a stranger to say we've found your keys.
Good tips Gerty, thank you. I remember locking and leaving my keys in the ignition of my then campervan at the Olga's. Luckily I had wired a spare key in a discreet place under the vehicle and was able to get this and unlock my vehicle. The alternative would have been a smashed window probably...
If you buy a small hobby box from Jcar or similar and screw it outside somewhere you can get at easy but it looks like it is part of the electrics etc and then put a copy of each key inside this and then screw on the cover.
All you need is a small Philips head screw driver to undo and you have a spare set. Every one has a screw driver (DON'T YOU) so can borrow form any camper etc near.
Regards
Brian
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11 Mtr house Boat based at Mannum hoping to travel up the Murray as far as I can get then drift back again
If you buy a small hobby box from Jcar or similar and screw it outside somewhere you can get at easy but it looks like it is part of the electrics etc and then put a copy of each key inside this and then screw on the cover. All you need is a small Philips head screw driver to undo and you have a spare set. Every one has a screw driver (DON'T YOU) so can borrow form any camper etc near. Regards Brian
I've done this on the van and the car but made small wooden boxes which are screwed to the van underfloor and a car chassis member then painted with bitumastic so they look 'normal'. With the car key it needs to be sealed well so the electronics don't get damaged.
