TOWING/STORAGE/ SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS

JANUARY 2016 - TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS
TOWING/STORAGE/
SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS
Our advertisers’ products - in their words
ALL TERRAIN WARRIORS
All Terrain Warriors has developed heavy-duty off-road suspension systems
and super single rear wheel conversions which are a quantum leap forward in
the conversion of the Fuso FGs and Isuzu NPS to formidable off-road tourers
and commercial trucks with a level of comfort normally revered for the luxury
4X4 SUVs.
ATW parabolic suspension improves flexibility, allows more axle movement due
to their typical characteristics and lack of interleaf friction. Parabolic springs are
known to have a slightly higher spring rate. This, with the right shock absorbers,
will give more stability and a better ride to the vehicle at all speeds, on or off
the road.
One of the main benefits is the increased load-carrying capacity. Parabolic
springs are modular, therefore separate leafs can be added to increase load
capacity, or removed to lower the spring rate, without compromising the structure
of the entire spring pack itself.
Basically, a parabolic spring is a spring that consists of two or more leaves. The
leaves touch only in the centre, where they are fixed to the axle and at the outer
ends, where they are fixed to the vehicle. In between those two points the leaves
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do not touch each other as they do with conventional springs and are separated by
urethane interleaf blocks to prevent contact and to further improve the ride quality
by eliminating friction.
Each leaf represents a complete spring in itself and will act as such. To enable
this the leaf is tapered, from centre (thick) to the outer ends (thin). This tapering is
called parabolic; it means that every centimetre the thickness of the leaf decreases
in an amount that relates to the square function of its length. This may sound
complicated but it is, in fact, very simple. Every single leaf will have, more or less,
the same shape as a complete multi-leaf spring and thus it’s capable of handling
the same forces. This means that the ideal parabolic spring could have only one
leaf; however, this type of mono-leaf spring will have very limited articulation/
weight ratio due to high internal stresses so a two-, three- or four-leaf parabolic
spring can divide the stresses more evenly across the other leaves and thus more
axle movement is possible. Another reason for increased leaves on a parabolic
spring is to increase the rate (load capacity). Because every leaf spring is one
spring we can add or take away leaves without compromising the strength of the
leaf itself. So, for example, if there is a three-leaf rear spring and one similar leaf is
added the rate will go up by about 30 percent, which means that the load capacity
has increased by approximately 30 percent (depending on the shackle effect).
ATW parabolic springs are produced according to strict quality controls
from detailed engineering drawings. Every individual leaf is made from chrome
vanadium steel, tapered, punched, rolled, heat treated and finally dip painted
in special anti-corrosive paint. Accessories are galvanised to ensure a durable
protection against the elements. ATW advises having the parabolic springs fitted to
the front and rear of the vehicle with shock absorbers. Parabolic suspension gives
the best ride when set up as follows: three front leaves, four rear leaves or three
front leaves and four rear leaves with overriders, all working together in harmony
as a unit. ATW has developed a range of shock absorbers specifically for its
parabolics available in normal heavy-duty and race truck super heavy-duty, which
are programmable and rebuildable.
For more information visit www.allterrainwarriors.com.au or email
sales@allterrainwarriors.com.au or phone 1800 468 590.
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TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS - JANUARY 2016
MOUNTAINCRAFT RVS
At MountainCraft RVs the main focus is the construction of custom-built
fifth wheelers to suit your individual needs, whilst ensuring the design and
engineering of our fifth wheelers will handle Australian conditions.
The owners of this business initially spent many years in steel yacht
construction later moving on to steel trailer and horse float design
and construction.
With qualifications in welding, carpentry and joinery this family
business has spent many years researching building materials for its new
fifth wheelers. Quality composite fibreglass panels were sourced along
with lightweight interior cabinetry. The fibreglass composite panels used
at MountainCraft provide excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, are
extremely strong but lightweight and are long lasting with a beautiful
gloss easily-maintained finish. Successfully combining these materials
has produced an extremely strong and lightweight fifth wheeler – adding
quality fixtures and fittings to complete the fitout results in MountainCraft
fifth wheelers being able to stand alongside the in best Australianmanufactured fifth-wheel units.
With a good selection of modern dual-cab utes now able to tow up to
3.5 tons its now possible to have a fuel-efficient vehicle and still be able to
tow a reasonably large lightweight fifth wheeler. With towing safety and
excellent manoeuvrability a fifth wheeler is an excellent choice.
MountainCraft RVs also manufacture a stock model, the Bogong 28.
This 28-ft fifth wheeler will combine a spacious interior with a wellappointed kitchen, quality leather upholstery, queen-size walk around bed,
plenty of storage and large shower. Efficient LED lighting is used along with
good water storage plus a grey water tank. An outdoor barbecue and picnic
table makes outdoor cooking a pleasure, with solar panels to provide plenty
of power to free camp at your chosen destination.
So whether you are looking for a fifth wheeler to travel the main
thoroughfares or you are looking to be a bit more adventurous and head
into the remote back county we can design and construct a rig to suit
you. We aim to provide excellent customer service and are prepared to
listen and assist you to obtain a fifth wheeler that will suit your needs.
For more information phone Paul on 0407 078 846 or email us at
mountaincraftrv@bigpond.com
Our new website will be www.mountaincraftrv.com.au/
Sway
Sag
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Body Roll Rough Ride
JANUARY 2016 - TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS
ENJOY ABSOLUTE
FREEDOM IN A
HORIZON
Award-winning manufacturer* Horizon Motorhomes are built into the Fiat Ducato
and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models. They provide maximum storage and towing
capacity for those extra essentials or non-essentials you wish to stow away or tow
behind to enjoy touring and camping with absolute freedom.
Horizon Motorhomes uses its unique designs to provide an open spaced van,
which is easy to move around in while providing generous storage space including
overhead cupboards, wardrobes, under-seat storage and large boot space. Some of
the models (Grevillea and Waratah) offer larger under-bed storage, where the bed
lifts up allowing you to store clothes, bedding or bulky items.
There is ample storage cleverly slotted throughout the vehicle for items such
as golf clubs or fishing gear. As standard in the Fiat Ducato models, there is a
storage shelf above the driver and passenger seats, which is a perfect place to
store essentials.
The kitchen is one area that cleverly utilises space. Featuring a wide
thoroughfare, deep drawers for maximum storage rather than cupboards wherever
possible, to accommodate larger cooking items such saucepans. The Acacia and
Grevillea models offer a large workbench with increased storage space beneath
with plenty of drawers and a handy flush-mounted rubbish bin.
All models include a good-sized 136-litre elevated fridge except the Banksia
and Waratah, which have a 110-litre under-bench fridge. Both are compressor
driven so draw little power from the house battery and the storage is essential for
fresh food and cold drinks, awarding the freedom to head off the beaten track for
a few days.
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The water tank capacity in the Horizon Fiat models is 150 litres, which is
made possible by the lack of a drive shaft in the front wheel drive leaving the
maximum amount of space for water storage. This means that you can travel
more further afield, without the risk of depleting your water supply.
The Horizon Motorhomes vehicles have an extremely large towing capacity;
2.5 tonnes in the Fiat and two tonnes in the Mercedes. This gives the freedom to
tow a boat, jet skis, motorcycle or car without compromise.
RIDE SMOOTH IN A HORIZON
Horizon Motorhomes are built into the original shell rather than built ‘onto’. This
means the body doesn’t flex and there are no seams or weak points, which helps
to deliver a fantastic touring recreational vehicle that is not only functional, but
fuel efficient and safe.
Every motorhome (including the Fiat and Mercedes models) comes with a
standard suspension system that provides a smooth ride, good handling and
steering stability to ensure comfort for travellers.
If you order a Mercedes with a double dinette seat, for instance, we’ll build it
into a 416 and 419 Sprinter that’s equipped with heavier suspension.
DISCOVER HORIZON MOTORHOMES
Visit us at Horizon Motorhomes and you’ll discover why we were named the
2015 Manufacturer of the Year*. Known for our supreme ‘built-in’ tailorable
motorhomes and unique designs, Horizon Motorhomes are the perfect vehicle for
your touring holidays.
To view the award-winning range visit horizonmotorhomes.com.au or to
speak with one of the specialists at Horizon’s exclusive dealer, BCMC,
call 02 6681 1555.
*2015 Manufacturer of the Year – Motorhomes, Campervans & Fifth
Wheelers – awarded by the Caravan & Camping Industry Association.
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TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS - JANUARY 2016
TILTA TRAILERS
Tilta Trailers is proudly Australian owned and manufactured on the
north side of Brisbane, at Clontarf. We are the original tilting car trailer
company. All of our trailers are manufactured from Australian steel and
we only use quality components that are ADR compliant. All of our trailers
meet Australian Standards and are compliant in every state of Australia.
Our single-axle trailer weighs 300kg and can hold up to 1200kg,
so it will suit most small cars and small four-wheel drives such as a
Suzuki Jimny.
• NO RAMPS – the unique design has eliminated the need for
extra ramps.
• EASY TO USE – When the locking mechanism that locks down the
tracks is released, you simply drive your car onto the trailer and the
tracks automatically lock when the car is loaded. It’s that easy. Watch
the video at www.tiltatrailer.com for a demonstration to see just how
easy it is to use.
• SECURITY – There is also the added security of having your vehicle
locked onto the trailer.
• MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS – The ability to load very low vehicles.
• MOTORHOMES – Designed to tow behind motorhomes.
• ADJUSTABLE – adjusts to different types of vehicles. This means you
don’t have to sell your trailer when you sell your vehicle.
All trailers come with 12 months Queensland Registration and tiedown straps.
For more information visit www.tiltatrailer.com and Tilta Trailers
can deliver Australia wide.
JANUARY 2016 - TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS
MAJESTIC
MOTORHOMES
The Majestic Motorhome craftsmen are experts at
making the best of the available space. You could almost
say that their motto is ‘No Wasted Space’ – Let’s chase
that millimetre.
Our interiors feature under-bed drawers and
cupboards, overhead storage solutions, slide-out pantry
and lazy-Susan in the kitchen cupboards, and clever
hatches for all your electronic devices that can include
charging points.
Outside we can fit storage boxes on the back or roof
and storage under the stairs. Are you sick of having to
crawl inside the storage hatches to get to your belongings
in the rear, then the Majestic craftsman can fit runners
that allow you to slide your belongings out to you. For
the ultimate have a slide with your barbecue already
connected to your motorhome’s gas supply for instant
cooking. What about a generator slide? You name it we
can slide it.
The Majestic Motorhomes team can refurbish your
existing caravan or motorhome with our clever storage
ideas. But when you custom build with us the sky is the
limit and with fully-insulated manufacturing products, that
are lightweight, strong and can incorporate some clever
storage areas. Water storage is also a big issue. We
customise space and tanks to most sizes to fit in that area
of the chassis that you didn’t even know existed.
Want to tow a vehicle when travelling? Majestic
Motorhomes manufactures Gipsy Trailers to order. These
little wanderers’ mates are the original Gipsy, not the
imitations that are turning up around the motorhome
circuit. If you need a tow hitch built and engineered and/
or a tow bar, we can do that too.
To fulfil your storage and towing desires give
Lyle or Nicole a call on 02 6492 5560 or visit www.
majesticmotorhomes.com.
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TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS - JANUARY 2016
TOW LIKE A PRO!
Towing a trailer can be a challenging task especially for first timers, but being
able to confidently tow with your motorhome will ensure a lifetime of fun.
Matt Sears from Albury Wodonga RV World suggests there are a number
of techniques that are helpful to first-time towers, both in building confidence
and ensuring a safe journey.
Here are Matt’s top tips for towing behind a motorhome:
Practice makes perfect. “Reversing your motorhome while towing can be
tricky! Try practicing this in a large open space, such as an empty car park so
you’ll be a pro when the time comes to reverse in a real situation. It’s also a
great idea to take your motorhome for a spin around the neighbourhood before
getting straight on the highway so you can readjust to towing.”
Take it easy. “When approaching a corner you should begin to brake earlier
than you would when not towing and take it more slowly. The weight of your
motorhome combined with the load you are towing will be pushing your RV
forward as you brake so it is important to account for this. If you are coming up
to a long decline you should reduce your speed early and change down a gear.
This will help to mitigate the risk of brake fade.”
“Quick movements, jack-rabbit starts and last minute stops must be
avoided when you are towing behind your motorhome.”
Be aware of your surroundings. “Make sure you take extra care when
overtaking cyclists and pedestrians, as your motorhome will be wider than a
normal car. You will also need to take corners wider for a similar reason. Not
only are you wider but your entire length when towing is longer. Take this
precaution to ensure you don’t clip a kerb or other items on the side of the road
such as signs.”
Check your vehicle’s towing
capacity. “Before setting off you
need to check that your vehicle
is actually capable of towing the
load you would like. Some RVs
have a higher tow capacity than
others. You’re dealer should be able to advise you of this.”
Albury Wodonga RV World is the largest caravan and RV dealership
between Melbourne and Sydney.
The company offers a range of motorhomes, caravans and campervans
for both sale and hire and stocks leading quality brands including Royal Flair,
Sunliner, A’van, Winnebago, Golf and more.
For further information regarding the company and its product range,
visit www.awrvworld.com.au.
JANUARY 2016 - TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS
SUMMER LIFE FIFTH WHEELERS –
PROUDLY BUILT IN AUSTRALIA
RV Specialists is the exclusive retailer for Summer
Life RVs fifth wheelers. With great floorplans and
the ability to change or completely custom build
the Summer Life RVs are in a league of their own –
built on a platform of strength, quality and safety.
Features on all fifth wheelers include a highstrength chassis built to withstand Australian
terrain. Building a strong chassis is just the start, a
platform for the very latest composite material for
the walls, roof and an extra strong, yet light, onepiece composite floor. Of course there is superior
strength in the build but there is also a great
saving in weight. It really is a case of light weight/
high strength construction that is fully insulated.
Of course the lightest and strongest
construction methods are only a part of the
success of these fifth wheelers, they also have
to tow well. Now there is nothing better than
adding the extra stability of Cruisemaster Off Road
Independent Suspension – you may never go
off-road but the difference in towing with
independent suspension is truly amazing.
Once we have a strong foundation with the
latest materials for floor, walls, roof and it tows
extremely well. Now you need great floor plans
and Summer Life RV range includes: Getaway 23’,
a single slide room layout; Getaway 25’, also a
single slide room layout; Drifter 26’, a double slide
room layout and the Platinum 30’ a triple slide
room layout.
Unlike American fifth wheelers that have to be
substantially modified to suit Australian conditions
the Summer Life fifth wheelers are built to meet
stringent Australian Design Rules.
The Summer Life Getaway 23 has a large living
room slide-out and a full-size queen mattress in an
island bed layout that you can walk around. The
larger Getaway 25 features the same bedroom
and bathroom of the 23 but gets the kitchen and
entertainment of the Drifter 26.
The Summer Life Drifter 26 features a bedroom
with a slide-out for its queen bed and large front
wardrobe and chest of drawers. The living room
features a large living room slide-out for the dining
suite and leather recliners.
The all new Summer Life Platinum 30 features
a triple slide room layout with a great bedroom
with slide-out queen-size bed, living room slide-out
for dining suite and leather recliners (full threeseater leather lounge across the rear) and a slideout for the kitchen and this design also includes an
island kitchen bench.
All Summer Life RV models feature quality
appliances from Dometic and Thetford and
entertainment packages with high-definition
LED TV and blue-ray player and stereo. They
also pride themselves in having designs with
a great bathroom including separate toilet and
large shower.
You will be dealing directly with a small family
owned company who have a simple goal to deliver
a quality product that will take you on the journey
of your life. For more information visit
www.summerliferv.com.au or phone 02 4954 6652.
TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS - JANUARY 2016
SHOCKING RIDE
Australian road conditions and the long distances travelled while touring can be
testing on a motorhome in terms of comfort and control. After all it is not just the
destination but also the journey that makes your trip memorable.
Shock absorbers are a key replaceable component largely responsible for
controlling a vehicle’s suspension, keeping the tyres in contact with the road
surface. This key component has a large bearing on vehicle control, comfort and its
braking ability.
The first tell-tale signs that your shocks need replacing is unusual tyre wear,
where there are flat inconsistent patches known as scalloping on the tyre tread
surface. This is a result of the tyres slamming down on the road surface in an
uncontrolled manner. Other symptoms include nose-diving under brakes, repeatedly
bouncing after hitting a bump in the road and excessive body roll.
If you have experienced any of the above symptoms it is a very good chance
that your shock absorbers need replacing before other expensive repairs
are required such as broken spring leafs, chassis cracks and other vibrationrelated damage.
Powerdown is the largest supplier in Australia of commercial vehicle shock
absorbers, with more than 30 years experience in designing and developing shock
absorbers specifically for Australian road and climatic conditions. Powerdown
shock absorbers have proven themselves to be reliable and value for money over
thousands of kilometres on Australian roads.
With a vast range of shock absorbers available off the shelf and expert
knowledge to back this up, Powerdown can supply a solution to your ride control
issue improving overall comfort and vehicle control.
For further information visit www.powerdown.com.au or call 02 4949 0000
to find out how Powerdown shock absorbers can help improve the ride of
your motorhome.
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JANUARY 2016 - TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS
TRAILBLAZERS RV IS TAKING
OFF-ROAD AND OFF THE
GRID TO A NEW LEVEL
With a range of compact off-road and larger off the
grid fifth wheelers Trailblazers RV has a unit to suit
everyone’s travel plans.
Specialist custom builders, Trailblazers RV
design and build all models in its Melbourne factory.
The unique single and dual-axle self-contained units
are suitable for a range of host vehicles from small
utes to larger trucks and are setting the standards in
Australian fifth-wheel design.
For off-road travellers, Trailblazers RV Overland
single-axle range is available in 18-, 20- and 22-foot
layouts. With tough composite panel construction,
reinforced chassis, heavy-duty suspension, excellent
ground clearance, and tare weights from 1600kg,
these fifth wheelers tow like a dream and will take
you to those off the beaten track spots.
For those who like a more comfortable journey
with the ability to free camp, Trailblazers RV 24’ to
36’ models can be fitted with all the features you
need to live the dream anywhere you choose, off the
grid. These fifth wheelers are ideal for the long-term
traveller and working holidays. Floorplan options
can include pop tops, slide-outs up to 4m, bunks
or space for the motorbike. To ensure trouble-free
travel, off the grid features include at least 360L
water storage, charging system with 480W solar
and 200Ah lithium batteries with 3000W inverter,
heating and cooling to suit your needs, satellite
package and extra spare tyre.
Trailblazers RV fifth wheelers’ aerodynamic
design, combined with lightweight construction
ensures safe and fuel efficient towing. Fullyinsulated fibreglass bodies with double-glazed
windows ensure user comfort in any climate. Inside,
creature comforts are certainly not compromised
with queen bed, bathroom, full kitchen and
comfortable living areas standard with many
options available. Trailblazers RV prides itself on
producing units with no wasted space. Its clever
storage incorporates drawers, pull-out pantries
and sliding cabinets. With flexible layouts and a
choice of modern interiors, the units are designed
with all the features and comforts required by
discerning travellers.
All Trailblazers RV fifth wheelers have large front
storage compartments to house outdoor furniture,
hoses, power cords and recovery equipment; side
lockers can accommodate the barbecue, generator
and fishing gear.
The major advantage of a fifth wheeler over
a conventional trailer is the stability of towing
and greater manoeuvrability, ensuring safer
travel and easier reversing and parking. With the
hitching system placed over the host vehicle’s rear
axle, weight distribution is far better than on a
conventional tow bar so packing a fifth wheeler for
travel is a breeze. There are two easy to use hitch
systems available – a pin box and turntable hitch
or a gooseneck three-inch ball type. Trailblazers RV
use Hayman Reese systems; both are approved for
Australian use and can be largely removed from the
vehicle when not in use.
By utilising the space between the centre of
the rear axle and the back of the vehicle, plus the
space normally taken up by a caravan’s draw bar,
a fifth wheeler has approximately 2.5m of extra
living space with the overall footprint on the road
being shorter than a caravan of the same length The
distance between a fifth wheeler and the vehicle is
less than a caravan, minimizing wind resistance and
ensuring greater fuel efficiency.
Trailblazers RV prides itself on the innovative
ideas, attention to detail and quality workmanship.
Go where the others can’t go – do what the
others can’t do: www.trailblazersrv.com/
TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS - JANUARY 2016
MOTORHOME
STABILITY ISSUES
Probably the most common complaint with
motorhomes is their lack of
stability. Most motorhomes
are built on light commercial
vehicle chassis that were never
intended to be motorhomes.
They are fitted with bodies
that are very wide on a
relatively narrow wheel
track. This, combined
with a high body, results
in a high centre of
gravity. The stability of
the motorhome is often further
compromised by a substantial
amount of rear overhang, further to
this most motorhomes are near or at their
maximum weight capacity.
The net result is that the suspension is often overwhelmed, compromising
the performance and safety of the motorhome. With all these elements
combining to work against the motorhome simply adding more leaf springs or
better shock absorbers cannot solve the stability, sag and sway issues. What is
needed is an active dampening system.
Timbren have been making the unique AEON rubber springs for 50 years.
These highly engineered active dampeners can drastically improve the safety
and performance of your motorhome
suspension. They work to supplement
your existing suspension by bearing some
of the motorhomes weight permanently.
By nature AEON rubber springs have unique
dampening properties and no harsh
recoil. The net result is that they
will calm the rolling action of
the motorhome improving driver
comfort and confidence, they will
reduce the vibration that runs
through your motorhome reducing
the internal noise and
chattering, there will also
be a slight lifting of your
motorhome reducing sag
and putting more travel
back into your suspension.
No structural
modifications are required to fit
Timbren AEON springs to your motorhome. Most kits simply utilise your
bump stop mount meaning there will be no cutting, welding or drilling. Custom
kits can be created for almost any vehicle. With 50 years of data we know that
the life expectancy of the AEON springs is around 30 years. All Timbren AEON
springs fitted to motorhomes in Australia come with a lifetime warranty. Add
to this, AEON springs require no servicing and no lubrication. Timbren AEON
springs are simply the best way to improve your motorhome performance
and safety – permanently. Videos of the springs in action can be found on its
website. If you have any questions please contact Timbren Distributors Australia,
or see www.suspensionenhancements.com.au/
Expedition Vehicles
COMPACT, LIGHTWEIGHT
FIFTH WHEELERS
EXPEDITION VEHICLES
DEMOUNTABLE PODS
Luxurious interiors
Flexible floorplans
On and off road models
CUSTOM BUILT
BUY FACTORY DIRECT AND SAVE
222 Governor Road Braeside VIC 3195 Ph: 03 9588 0077
www.trailblazersrv.com
info@trailblazersrv.com
– THE WANDERER JANUARY 2016 –
97
JANUARY 2016 - TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS
FIFTH WHEELERS ARE
A SAFER TOWING
OPTION
Buying a new caravan with all the necessary mod-cons is a big financial decision.
Making sure that you buy the right van for your needs can be stressful. There are
so many to choose from these days, so how do you decide?
The owners of Winjana RV can help you with this process. They advise that
safety is the most important consideration before anything else. To make your
job easy, selecting a fifth wheeler van, from a reputable Australian manufacturer,
will ensure that you have the safest van type possible to tow. Driving safety is the
highest priority for Winjana RV.
Don’t risk turning your first caravan adventure into a disaster.
Recent customers of Winjana, Ursula and her husband, had set out on their
‘once in a lifetime’ trip with their new conventional caravan, not having had any
previous van driving experience. Within a few kilometres of leaving their home,
their van jack-knifed and they crashed. They now regret that they had not done
their homework better before their purchase. After the crash they contacted
Winjana RV to purchase a new van.
Ursula says, “We wish we knew then what we do now. This was our first trip
in our new van when this happened. We will only buy fifth wheelers from now
on. Andrew from Winjana RV has given us the confidence to get back behind the
wheel again.”
Why are fifth wheelers safer? Fifth-wheeler vans offer safety advantages that
conventional vans don’t. Fifth wheelers are easier and safer to tow as they do not
sway, are easier to manoeuvre and reverse, and easier to get into tricky camp sites
– especially if you buy a small van like a Winjana RV Strzelecki 520 Offroad. The
reason fifth wheelers are much safer to tow is because the position of the hitch
Is safety your priority?
buy a 5th wheeler van
no swaying easy reversing
increased towing safety
All hitches are fully
ADR compliant
Winjana vans are suitable for 'free
camping'. Offroad vans available.
5th wheeler specialist
is directly over tow vehicle’s rear axle – providing better support for the RV than
conventional vans can.
Winjana RV vans are manufactured locally in Toowoomba, Queensland. All
vans are specifically designed to meet Australian driving conditions, and are
personally tested on highway and off-road conditions to ensure the fifth wheeler
vans perform as required on our rugged roads.
All Winjana RV hitches are ADR compliant. Winjana fifth wheelers are
very easy to hitch and un-hitch and can be done in under five minutes, by one
person. So setting-up camp and getting back on the road is an easy and stressfree experience.
Winjana RV manufactures small fifth wheeler vans, from 20-30ft, and offers
affordable prices. Winjana RV has developed Australia’s first hybrid van, the Cattai
760 (a cross between a fifth-wheeler and a conventional van), and the first off-road
fifth wheelers.
The off-road models are built to suit off-road conditions with the inclusions of
off-road brakes, tyres, suspension and shock absorbers; extra ground clearance;
and solar power.
Combined with the driving and safety benefits of a fifth-wheeler van, the
practical layouts of Winjana vans ensure you have a safe and comfortable journey.
Winjana RV is a small, family run company offering exceptional personal and
professional service for more than 15 years. Custom-build vans and spare parts are
also available, to suit clients’ requirements.
For more information visit www.winjana5thwheelers.com.au
– THE WANDERER JANUARY 2016 –
98
TOWING/STORAGE/SUSPENSION/FIFTH WHEELERS - JANUARY 2016
A CONSIDERED
APPROACH TO
STORAGE
While camping remains a quintessential Australian holiday, one of the biggest
issues for motorhomers is utilising their space to its maximum capacity; and
that’s where Trakka gets clever. You see, there’s storage and then there’s
purpose-built Trakka storage. Head over to Trakka’s van-based Torino or
Jabiru and its coach-built Trakkaway and you’ll find thoughtfully designed and
innovatively constructed overhead lockers, roller shutters and drawers, created
to maximise every conceivable space.
Take the overhead lockers and shutters for instance. These easy to open
shutter doors can be found right throughout these vehicles including the
kitchen (because who wants to open a standard cupboard door at awkward
head height?) and thanks to cutting edge computer design technology; storage
space within the motorhome has been increased for better usability. These
specially designed doors don’t cross cut any lighting so it’s always easy to see
what’s inside a locker, and while no latches are required to keep the shutters
secured, they’re purpose built to withstand knocks from various objects and
won’t burst open.
Innovation prevails when it comes to these overhead lockers. Coupled with
integrated crockery storage for the convenient and secure positioning of plates,
mugs and bowls, if you accidentally leave a locker open, the roller shutter will
gradually close with the motion of driving, securing the load.
Head to the bathroom where the roller shutter door triumphs again;
discretely hidden within the cubicle, the shutters have been implemented
to free up space and ensure a clear passageway when opening the door.
Ultimately, Trakka adventure seekers are treated to ample showering room,
which heralds good news for everyone really. So what about their drawers?
Built with an InnoTech soft close system, all the drawers (and overhead
cupboards) are complete with a high-pressure, scratch resistant laminate.
While a specially designed cutlery space has been designated to the kitchen,
the remaining drawers come in a variety of depths to accommodate the storage
of different sized items. Considerately, all the drawers are easy to clean and
have been constructed for easy removal, are complete with a self latching lock
(no buttons to push, one movement to close and secure the drawer) and thanks
to the reliable multi-ball bearing runners within the InnoTech drawer system,
provide a smooth running and silent closing function.
A considered approach to storage; It’s just one of Trakka’s points
of difference.
For more information visit www.trakka.com.au
R V THERE YET?
HUG E M OTO R HO M E SALE !
Begin your next
ADVENTUREtoday!
Jefferson
RVWORLD
(03)8587 4488
OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY 9AM-5PM LMCT 5199
jeffersonrvworld.com.au
220 Boundary Road, Braeside