Accidents are often unavoidable, but there’s a lot you can do to protect your caravan and yourself from damage, especially when you’re off-road. For caravaners, the term “off-road” often means a road/track that doesn’t have a seal or concrete surface but doesn’t usually require driving in low range. You need to keep in mind there are very few caravans that are built to handle the increase in dust and road debris thrown up by your tow vehicle. Some additional underbody protection may be useful to prevent this damage to water tanks, plumbing and gas lines and electrical wiring which are normally not protected for “on-road” caravans. The surface condition of a road with potholes, ruts, rocks, corrugations and wash-aways can also cause caravan damage so care needs to be taken.
Reduced tyre pressures on your tow vehicle and caravan may help increase available traction, softens the ride and may also reduce the likelihood of punctures. Keep in mind that speed also should be reduced. This may help reduce vibration inside your caravan as well. Just don’t forget to reinflate your tyres once you are back on a sealed road.
Protection devices to stop abrasion from gravel and rocks can also be installed to try to prevent further caravan damage to paintwork. The choices include stone guards to protect the front of the caravan but watch out as stones can then reflect to the tow vehicle causing damage to rear windows. Often simple cardboard held on with tape can assist. Call the team at CaravanMart Townsville to discuss what you may need.