Driveway storage

[shropshirefuzzyed]

Hi,

picking up new van today.I wondered if anyone has advice on what is best for protecting tyres and electrics when van is not in use.Would it be best for example to keep van wheels off the ground to look after the tyres.I also have a tracker on this one which takes a small draw off battery,but not much but i wondered is it good practice to have the mains continually connected?

Thanks In advance,

Andy

 

[JTS]

Hi Andrew.

Like me you are lucky enough to store your van at home. I take full advantage of this. My mains are continually connected which means I can keep my battery topped up keeping it in good condition. A discharged battery deteriates quickly, I also heat my van now and again, my van always feels dry and comfortable and no mould or condensation. I purchased a set of winter wheels(security type) and keep my wheels in the garage helping to prevent deteriation of the tyres. Stand all your cushions etc on edge to enable ventilation and as I heat the van at times I am able to store most of the soft items in the van (Awning, bedding Etc). Electrical items, TV, Digibox, DVD player etc can also stay in the van. No edibles at all. There are those who will pooh pooh the idea of heating your van, maybe it is not necessary but if you give it some thought, it is better to heat than not to heat. Do not be put off by those who - if I don't do it - its not a good idea and - I havn't got one so they are no good and finally - mine isn't one of those so mine must be better. Good Luck. JTS.

 

[RogerL]

If you have access to mains electric at home, or in storage, keep the mains connected to keep the battery topped up.

If you have a long winter break from caravanning, raise the caravan on axle stands to give the suspension a rest.

Tyres should be replaced within 7 years of manufacture - allowing for distribution and storage that means replacing every 5-6 years. Use tyrewall paint each winter to reduce deterioation from sunlight.

 

[colin(bridgend)]

I also use winter wheels for storage on the drive, the caravan wheels are kept safe on a supporting bar fixed to the garage wall. The only downside to this is that the van is not manourvable should it need to be moved. The alternative is to buy a second hand set of wheels with worn tyres for winter storage which still allows the van to be moved. However there is then the loss of security which is achieved with the winter wheels fitted.

Either have the fridge running or leave the door slightly ajar otherwise there will be a stale smell from the fridge and also possible mildew forming on the shelves, etc. We had the fridge running over the Christmas period as it was used for the extra food and drinks for the festivities, it is now turned off. I will be running it again soon off the EHU in order that it can achieve the necessary chill prior to use of the van. It will not chill off the battery but if it is chilled prior to towing it will remain cold.

I also keep the electrics plugged on in the van over the winter period and have the heater on occassionally for my own peace of mind. As previously stated there are arguments for and against this practice so it is up to you. However we also keep the seat cushions in the house in the airing cupboard for keeping aired and dry. Thank God it is a walk in cupboard.