Caravans and Better Payloads

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by gavinwibrow

From my limited to date research it appears that not many caravans (offroad or otherwise) cater for those who want to live in their vans for longer periods and want to take some of their lifestyle items with them. Not only are heavy considerations like extra water (clean and grey/black) for extended free camping limited, but the potential to carry heavier tools and playthings (dingies, outboards, motorbikes etc) appears to be quite restricted.
Anyone know of caravan manufacturers who make provision for better payloads, even at the expense of less space and item luxuries? Apart from the occasionally advertised 2 room versions where you roll in your quads or dirt bikes for a quick weekend away, I can't believe no-one has addressed this market niche!!

---

What about those Jayco Base Station caravans? I haven't had a serious look at their weights or options but aren't they specifically marketed for the lifestyle "carry all your toys with you" people? Maybe don't cover the long term living aspect but I believe they're reasonably well kitted out for comfort living. I think they do an off-road capable (within serious limits I would suggest) version. I've toyed with the idea myself but never got around to looking seriously.
Cheers
John B

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by JayBoRover

What about those Jayco Base Station caravans? I haven't had a serious look at their weights or options but aren't they specifically marketed for the lifestyle "carry all your toys with you" people? Maybe don't cover the long term living aspect but I believe they're reasonably well kitted out for comfort living. I think they do an off-road capable (within serious limits I would suggest) version. I've toyed with the idea myself but never got around to looking seriously.
Cheers
John B

---

Thanks John - what you mention is meant to be my "Apart from the occasionally advertised 2 room versions where you roll in your quads or dirt bikes for a quick weekend away" comment, but certainly could be something to build on. Also some other positive comments on this thread.

I spoke with an importer of Fifth Wheeler RV trailers today and asked the question re ball position in regards to rear axle and he confirmed that the ball has to be behind the axle if you want to legally drive on a normal car or truck license depending on size / weight. etc

If the ball is in front of the axle then the driver needs to hold an Articulated license to be legal.

The ball only has to be an inch behind the axle to be legal but if it is over or in front then you can't drive legally with a car license.

He also confirmed that if the ball is in front it tows and turns much better and that is why people fit them that way even though they aren't legal for most drivers but if you have an accident especially where an injury or death happens then your really up poo poo creek without a paddle.

cheers,
Terry

Quote:

---

He also confirmed that if the ball is in front it tows and turns much better and that is why people fit them that way even though they aren't legal for most drivers but if you have an accident especially where an injury or death happens then your really up poo poo creek without a paddle.

---

no worries to me...have an MC ('B' double/road train) licence
:wasntme::D;)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by TerryO

If the ball is in front of the axle then the driver needs to hold an Articulated license to be legal.

---

This reminds me of when I was asked where I wanted the turn-table fitted to my prime mover after having purchased a refurbished trailer - about 6" forward of the centre of the drive axle group, being enough to ensure some trailer weight transfers onto the front axle when braking but not so much as to make it hard to steer.