top TOOLKIT TIPS

ONE OF THE many things that touring helps to teach you is self-reliance, and Covid-19 has certainly reinforced this. Why rely on others when you can fix minor problems yourself?

There is a belief that owners couldn’t possibly fathom their van’s complexity without visiting a dealer or retailer. For some electrical problems – and all safety-related matters, of course – that is true, but for certain equipment, it isn’t the case. Unlike cars, caravans are largely handbuilt by human beings. So if they can do it…

What you do need, though, is a set of tools covering the basic kit in your unit, and some common sense.

Certain things need to be left to the professionals, such as safety-related items (gas systems and so on), but for anything not safety-critical, such as broken window latches, faulty lights or a toilet that won’t flush, it’s worth investigating yourself.

Not only will you save time and money, but the feeling of glory that comes with a fix can be addictive! Even if you don’t succeed, at least you will have a clearer understanding of how it works