P C April 2008 Mag. Top Tips. FAO Nigel Donnelly

[Dustydog]

Hi Nigel

I was surprised to see in my new mag today that PC supports the application of cling film to polyplastic windows to protect them.

I recall over the years there have been numerous reports advising against cling film use on windows because it chemically affects the plastic and causes crazing.

Am I correct?

Cheers

Alan

 

[nrdonnelly]

Hello Alan,

There was anecdotal evidence years ago that cling film can cause the crazing problems you mention, but applied for the duration of journey and removed upon arrival, we're confident that there would be no problems.

As with anything left in contact with a soft plastic window, it could cause problems in the long term and we wouldn't recommend this. There is certainly no official word from caravan window manufacturers either way.

Hope this helps

Best Regards

Nigel Donnelly

Editor

Practical Caravan

 

[Dustydog]

Hi Nigel

Thanks for that. Personally I'll refrain from using the clingfilm. We all had enough trouble last year about Fenwicks caravan cleaners and ABS panels. Better safe than sorry for me.

Incidentally I have used Fenwicks stuff for years with no problems. However it is important us caravanners safeguard our warranties.

Cheers

Alan

 

[mistermac]

Hi

Alan - being rather new to this game - could you elicit a tad further on the Fenwicks' issue?

Does it affect warranties?

Mac

 

[Dustydog]

Hi Mac

There was a row between Bailey caravans and Fenwicks last year. At all the dealers I visited was a printed sign saying Fenwicks products were not to be used on Bailey Caravans. Allegedly the front and rear ABS panels were displaying distres caused by Fenwicks. My dealer also had a printed letter from Fenwicks saying it was not there product but something wrong in the manufacture of the ABS panels , made by a subcontractor to Bailey.

I've used it all my life with no problem. Latterly I have read the real issue was only with Fenwicks overwintering rather than the washing cleaner and Bobby Dazzler. There are a number of threads on this site about this subject.

What the final outcome was I don't know but hopefully everyone at Fenwicks and Bailey are happynow. I am not sure if other manufacturers ahd this problem.

I have had a few Baileys and never experienced the problem.

Cheers

Alan