elddis shamal xli 1995 model

[tonyd1]

Hi all,I have just bought my first van(as described in my subject heading). Has anyone had one of these vans? If so any information would be most welcome.

According to the August issue of Practical Caravan, there were problems with damp for the Elddis XL models for 1995. Like all van owners I am hoping to stear clear of the dreaded damp for many a long year. It has had some repairs to the floor as a result of delamination. Just keeping my fingers crossed.

Regards, Tonyd.

 

[Ken Littleboy]

Hi Tony, We have a 1992 Elddis Cyclone XL (our first)and have had it since 2002. It needed some resealing at the rear last year due to rising damp readings and the front needs the same this year. I view it as not unusual in a van of this age and justify the hundred or so pounds the works costs against the thousands we saved buying a van of this age. (I know of owners of other makes who have had to have seals renewed at 6 years old due to damp!!)We are very happy with our Elddis, it is very well featured and,like you,we intend to keep it for many years yet. Happy Caravanning. Ken.

 

[tonyd1]

Hi Ken,

Thanks for your reply and your words of encouragement are much appreciated .

I have been looking at a few of these models, since buying our own, and only today, when I was having my tow bar fitted, I was able to look at an Elddis Shamal which is the same year as our own. For the price the dealer was asking it was nowhere near in as good a condition as what we have bought, I am very pleased to say. However, I notice with all of these models that are beginning to advance in years, that the grab handles at the rear, without exception are always loose. Maybe this is where these vans have their source of water ingress with all the problems that brings.

Until today, I was under the impression that the handles could'nt be removed from the outside. But now know that they can, as there are little strips of plastic coverings that hide the screws. Lifting these up will enable me to get at them and if needs be seal around and replace the screws.The guy who fitted my towbar (took him more than 4 hours) advised me to clean the area with paraffin and replace the screws with bigger ones. He also gave me half a tube of the correct type of sealent to finish the job. I'll hopefully get this done tomorrow, weather permitting.

Thanks again and keep enjoying your hobby.