complete NOOB saying Hi.

[manaboutthehouse]

Hi everyone , we have just been given a project van , a 1983 Cosalt clubman 414 .
if anyone has any information about this van we would love to see it as we have nothing. And the manufacturer appears to have moved on to solely statics.
It needs some work to solve a leaking rooflight, , replace a broken acrylic window ,replace de-laminated ceiling boards and update bathroom with a shower and hot water system and some new 12v electrics.
It is an ideal layout for our family and my wife is itching to get started on the interior .

Is there a section on the site for build and restoration threads ?

I have lots of questions such as:
Best way to fix a roof leak ?
what size awning do I need ?
what water heater to purchase (preferably a second hand unit ) for hot water and heating?
Any tips for replacing damaged ceiling boards?
and many more i`ve not thought of yet!

 

[Parksy]

Hi Manaboutthehouse, welcome to the forum.
A useful book to get hold of might be the Haynes Caravan Manual by Practical Caravan journalist John Wickersham.
If you submit your questions to the General message board there will be a better chance of replies and advice.
Rooflight's are readily available from caravan accessory shops and acrylic windows can be bought second hand or re-manufactured by Exhaust Ejector co and there are guys on this forum who have repaired leaky roofs and fitted water heaters so you should be ok for tips and advice.
Enjoy the restoration, take some before and after photos and enjoy using the forum to find out what you want to know

 

[Mel]

Hi manabout the house. welcome to the forum. post questions in technical and people cleverer than me will answer them. Photos go down well on here too.
mel

 

[Gagakev]

Hi manaboutthehouse, big welcome to the forum, seems like a big project you got there, have fun and good luck.
One tip I would give is strip out and see if you can do the leaks and ceiling BEFORE spending any money, dont want to spoil your enthusiasm but once stripped out you will get a better idea of the repairs needed.
Saying that it can be done and you will curse and swear (been there) but the rewards and satisfaction is emense.
Click the link below to see what you might find, the first couple of photo's will give you an idea of what you might find
Damp Repair

Ps dont worry if it's a bit quiet on here for a few days a lot of members will be at the PCv Rally in North Devon for the weekend.

 

[manaboutthehouse]

Thanks Guys that`s really helpful . loved looking through the damp repair stuff very informative.
Parksy, is there an area for a rebuild thread or does it live in technical?
As I have so much to do would you mind if I started several technical threads at once say:
ceiling board replacement and sourcing Ive found a lot about wall boards online but little about ceiling boards and suppliers.
roof sealing and rooflight replacement - can I just cut a bigger hole and fit a larger one?
rewire of 240v and 12v including probably some tow vehicle wiring and solar top up.
water system including retro fit of a water heater and bathroom with shower

I have a copy of the Haynes caravan manual and it has been most informative , I just wonder if much has changed since it was written in 1993?

I`m not expecting answers to the questions here just need to know how you would prefer me to structure it as I don`t want to upset anyone so soon. By way of a peace offering I have asked my wife for a subscription to the mag as a gift!

 

[Gagakev]

Thanks Guys that`s really helpful . loved looking through the damp repair stuff very informative.
Parksy, is there an area for a rebuild thread or does it live in technical?
As I have so much to do would you mind if I started several technical threads at once say:
ceiling board replacement and sourcing Ive found a lot about wall boards online but little about ceiling boards and suppliers.
roof sealing and rooflight replacement - can I just cut a bigger hole and fit a larger one?
rewire of 240v and 12v including probably some tow vehicle wiring and solar top up.
water system including retro fit of a water heater and bathroom with shower

I have a copy of the Haynes caravan manual and it has been most informative , I just wonder if much has changed since it was written in 1993?

I`m not expecting answers to the questions here just need to know how you would prefer me to structure it as I don`t want to upset anyone so soon. By way of a peace offering I have asked my wife for a subscription to the mag as a gift!

Try this link click here this is where I sourced all my board, insulation, and adhesive's, email them and they are most helpful, if you select a wall board which is close to the original you can select a few others and they will send you samples to get the match closest to what you have.

This may also be useful Caravan Breakers