Removing TV Aerial

[stevecw]

Hi, we have a series 5 Bailey Ranger fitted with one of the "flying saucer" status TV aerials. Bailey gives the van height as 2.71 m
We are looking to go over to Holland next year and on some of the ferries they charge for vans up to 2.6m and then above. As we never use a TV in the van I recon that if I remove the aerial it will bring the van down below 2.6m into the cheaper tarif.
My question is, has anyone ever done this? ,how easy is this to do and what do you do about the hole where the lead comes through the roof?
Many Thanks
Steve

 

[B4bill]

Steve,
Assuming that some day you may trade the van, then you may want to re-install the aerial and should use one of these with some sealer/mastic.
http://www.gradeuk.co.uk/store/product.asp?spc=10-2505/2&shelfid=58S59S1

Alternatively for a more permanent job use one of these,again with mastic/sealer.
http://www.gradeuk.co.uk/store/product.asp?spc=09-6073&shelfid=49S53S1
However have you checked with the ferry company as they may well have a standard list and your Bailey dimension on that will show 2.71m

 

[Easyvanner]

I've never known anybody get charged for the height to aerial top. Caravans travel on the same decks as Trucks and Coaches. Nobody will be concerned about your aerial.
If you feel the need to remove they sell a blanking plate
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Status-Caravan-Motorhome-Antenna-Blanking/dp/B002WZ7CN4
Also available from caravan dealers.

 

[chrisn7]

I have exactly the same issue. Occasionally, on Britanny Ferries the loading staff will remove the spike, dependent on where they are placing you, but are there ready with a stepladder. There's no need to pay the higher tariff....

 

[WatsonJohnG]

We had that some years ago
UK end ladders aerial spike removed
I replaced it in France
France end two seamen removed by one giving the other a leg up the van side
Result 2 dents in van side
Following year £100 off ferry ticket using BF compensation voucher
Dents covered with reflector and awning light!

 

[stevecw]

Thanks for everyones comments. Have decided to remove the aerial and fit one of the blanking plugs. Also decided to look into prices for Harwich Hook as we are going to Holland and on this route the height limit is 3m. I recon the extra expense of the journey will be more than equalised by not having the extra 70 miles from our home to Dover and only 40 miles on the other side instead of an 180 mile pull. I will also be able to get my head down on the ferry for a couple of hours.
Regards
Steve