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Post Info TOPIC: new to caravanning
kirbster


Newbie

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new to caravanning
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hi,

I have recently bought a Windsor Genesis (20') tandem van, towed by a Patrol (4.2 t/d, manual) and have completed one very nervous maiden trip to the coast & back........both the van (4") & the tug (2") ) have been raised for clearance purposes in future on & semi  off road adventures. The Patrol tow ball height is at its premium setting, as set by an authorised dealer, and the van has a conventional coupling for towing....Patrol has rear batwing opening doors....the here's the problem;

When the Patrol & van are coupled for towing, I can't open the boot right rear door, as the base of the door hits the alloy hand loop above the van coupling. I asked 'experts' @ the 2015 Brisbane Caravan show & they said, "just angle grind the top half of the loop off & weld a flat cross bar for gripping when uncoupling, simple!". Made sense, but every time I get the grinder out, I cave into doubt & put it back in the shed. I need the door open for access, as I've fitted storage drawers, but just can't bring myself to grind away....Maybe an off road coupling would be OK??

As a newby, I welcome any advice on this door dilemma...

kirbster



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Dougwe


Chief one feather

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Welcome to the gang kirbster, enjoy here and out in the playground.

Mmmmm, maybe take a look at replacing the problem hitch with a "Mc Hitch". Google them and look at their website.

Keep Safe on the roads.

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KFT


Guru

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G'day kirbster

Welcome from us too.

Lots of great info in here if you do a search and someone usually about to have a chat with.

I see the "chief of cheer" has welcomed you into the fold and also provided some good advice.

enjoy the forum we are a helpful bunch all you need to do is ask.

Frank

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Avagreatday.

Kathy and Frank currently at Home near Quirindi NSW
Possum3


Guru

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Change coupling to D035 or similar - Note if you cut and weld any coupling (or parts) you are modifying an approved engineered device (illegal). Other than Legal and Insurance considerations you are putting heat into a cast steel item - heat tends to alter the engineering characteristics setting yourself up for a coupling failure.
In short the "Experts" at caravan show are not only wrong they are morons.

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aussietraveller


Guru

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Welcome to the forum kirbster as you have already seen you will get answers to your questions, it may be worth relisting your post in the techo section as more people will see it.
Hope you enjoy your time with us and out in the big playground



-- Edited by aussietraveller on Tuesday 19th of January 2016 08:31:03 AM



-- Edited by aussietraveller on Tuesday 19th of January 2016 08:31:56 AM

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03_Troopy


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Here's a couple of ideas pinched from another forum.

handle1.JPGhandle2.jpg



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Possum3


Guru

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Details of Hitchmaster www.caravanandrvworld.com.au/do35-coupling-v2-r

Details of other coupling types www.campertrailers.org/couplings.htm

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