iMotorhome eMagazine Issue 30 - August 3 2013

iMotorhome

30: August 3 2013

magazine

Issue

because getting there is half the fun...

Distant Horizon Win!

$50 Caltex Fuel Card!

Halfway across Australia in Horizon’s new 4WD Waratah!

Basecamp & Beyond!

Aspiring to Traillite’s stylish Kaikoura...

Motorhome 101...

Malcolm looks into motorhome energy efficiency.

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On my mind

3

The Inner child

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he last two weeks have disappeared in another blurr. What with jumping on a flight to Alice Springs first thing in the morning after the last issue came out and then driving Horizon Motorhome’s new Waratah back to Ballina over eight days, I guess it’s no wonder.

The flight up gave me time to reflect on how far travel has come in Australia, in my lifetime alone. As a child, any ‘aeroplane’ ride was more of a treat than Christmas, while actually going somewhere on one – like an airline flight – was almost unimaginable. The same went for holidays (we

didn’t take them) or interstate travel. Yes, there were lots of Sunday Drives and the occasional trip from Sydney to Casino to spend time at my Grandparents’, but otherwise life was very – local.

For years now I’ve jumped on planes like they’re buses and just take them for granted. Ditto motorhomes. When I started out in RV journalism (many years ago!) the opportunity to drive a motorhome was a treat, never mind travelling and living in one. Now it’s all quite normal and there are certainly days when this is very much ‘just a job,’ but from time to time the magic is rekindled...

Watching the Simpson Desert from 30,000 feet, while eating lunch and enjoying a glass of good wine has to be one of the best ways to see the Outback! Note I said see, not experience. The sheer scale of Australia is something we all too easily forget and there’s no better way to quickly get a fresh appreciation for it than from the air. On the flight to Alice Springs its enormity was ‘re-dawning’ on me – but in the nicest possible way.

Our Alice-Ballina drive had sneaked up on me and, to be honest, I hadn’t put much planning into it. A few off-road websites visited, some time Continued...

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4

...Continued

spent on Google Maps and a chat to a good mate well versed in remote area Outback travel was about it. With so much information on hand instantly, it’s easy to leave things to the last minute and then boom – you’re on your way.

the ease with which we can confidently undertake such journeys, thanks to the reliability of modern vehicles and the ‘mantle of safety’ afforded by technologies like CB radios, satellite phones and even the (now) humble mobile phone.

So when we hit the road from Alice Springs the enormity of what we were about to do started to sink in. So too did

What would have been a major expedition when I was a young proved almost ridiculously easy.

Yet the wonder at the enormity,

beauty and isolation of the true Outback was rekindled and as I write I feel a little less jaded and a little more enthused by the prospect of further Great Adventures. Long live the child within!

d r a h c i R

The iMotorhome Team

Richard Robertson

Malcolm Street

Agnes Nielsen-Connolly

Publisher & Managing Editor

Consulting Editor

Design & Production Manager

A long-time freelance RV, motoring and travel writer, Richard is a dedicated, longterm motorhome enthusiast.

Unquestionably Australia and New Zealand’s best known RV journalist, Malcolm is a fixture at CMCA rallies and RV shows and is now in his second decade as a specialist RV writer.

Agnes is an experienced and talented graphic designer with extensive experience across a wide range of disciplines, including travel and advertising.

richard@imotorhome.com.au

He has held senior editorial positions with some of the best know recreational vehicle magazines in Australia. Richard also has a passion for lifestyleenhancing technology, which is why he is the driving force behind the new iMotorhome eMagazine.

malcolm@imotorhome.com.au

If it’s available on either side of the Tasman, Malcolm has probably driven it, slept in it, reported on it, knows how it’s made and can tell you just how good it really is.

agnes@imotorhome.com.au

Designing and producing iMotorhome issues since June 2012, Agnes does much of the behind-the scenes work to ensure every issue looks great and is easy to read.

©2013 iMotorhome. All rights reserved. Published by iMotorhome. ABN 34 142 547 719.

PO Box 1738, Bowral. NSW. 2576. Contact us on 0414 604 368 or Email: info@imotorhome.com.au

INSIDE DEISNI 3 ON MY MIND Rediscovering my inner child

7 ON YOUR MIND Have your say for a chance to win a $50 Caltex fuel card!

10 NEWS

What’s happening in the RV world

14 TESTED

Distant Horizon – Serious touring in Horizon’s 4WD Waratah

38 TESTED

Basecamp & Beyond – Sampling Traillite’s surprising Kaikoura

50 MOTORHOME 101 Malcolm explains energy efficiency options

60 CLASSIFIEDS This week’s featured iMotorhome Classifieds

62 CMCA MESSAGE Western Australia looks to become more RV friendly!

66 NEXT ISSUE What’s coming up, plus our show calendar

6

On your mind

Dear iMotorhome, thank you for your story last week on cooking. Just to let you know my wife has an Ecopot and like Mrs iMotorhome struggled at first. We bought it at a show and the demonstration made it look so easy!

My wife is nothing if not persistent and soon got the hang of it. So much so that I had to arrange a spot to

7 It’s only fitting that since Ed has his say in On My Mind, you should be able to have yours too. If you have anything to say – or ask – just drop a line to letters@imotorhome. com.au and we’ll share it with

our readers. We’ll also reward the most interesting, useful or thoughtful letter each issue with a $50 Caltex fuel card to help you on your way.

'install' it as we travelled, to stop it sliding around. I took a piece of 3 inch foam from an old seat cushion and cut it to the size of the wardrobe floor.

In the centre of that I cut out a round hole the size of our Eco pot and it fits in there very snugly as we drive. Always good at the end of a long day.

Thanks V and B, what a great idea! Good to know B has mastered the Ecopot and V has worked out how and where to keep it safely stowed while travelling. For your persistence and innovation I'm rewarding you with this week's $50 Caltex fuel card, which I'm certain will give your B an excuse to cook up another storm and pop the Ecopot in the wardrobe. Off you go!

Cheers, V & B via email

On your mind Dear Richard, we are spending our last day here in Beijing after a fascinating week in this remarkable country. Though we have seen 1000s of assorted vehicles from 1 wheel to many, sadly I must report not one motorhome sighted. Maybe this is good as it appears this is not the country for a leisurely drive.

8 journey to Ulaanbaatar especially the wanderings of Mr & Mrs iMotorhome. VW seem to dominate the market but very few of the van version.

Best Wishes to you all, Bill & Dorothy via email.

G'day Folks, lovely to hear from you and so pleased you're having Will continue to scan the horizons a great time. Thank you for the update on the state of Chinese but as we leave for Mongolia motorhoming. Somehow it tomorrow I fear there is little doesn't surprise me, although I chance of sighting a version of did recently read a company is our beloved way of travel. going to start operating convoy motorhome tours for Chinese On the brighter side. Edition people between Sydney and 28 has arrived safely and I Brisbane. Imagine! look forward to reading the contents on our 28 hr train Hope you're having a truly

fabulous time and that it gets even more fabulouserer (my word!). Happy readings of issue 28, but I fear our adventures in America will pale against yours in Mongolia and across the Steppes. Safe and happy travels and I'm certain VW will be pleased to hear of its market dominance!

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On your mind Hi Richard, my wife and I are planning to purchase a mobile home in 1 to 2 years time.

Because of this I have been researching the various models on the market.

I have been reading your emagazine for a couple of months and find it helpful.

The road tests are of great assistance but I feel you only mention the good points and gloss over any bad ones. I have read many motoring reviews in newspapers and the writers are not afraid to point out bad points with car models. I feel if this is not pointed out the manufactures will never fix any problems. An example is your review of the Winnebago Eyre (one of the models we are interested in). In the Pros at the bottom you state the “excellent Fiat Ducato.” The Fiat is the only thing that turns me off the Eyre as I have read bad reports of it. See http://www. productreview.com.au/p/ jayco-fiat-ducato.html.

I would love to be convinced that the Fiat is a good vehicle but I am older enough to remember when Fiat cars were sold in Australia in the 60s.

At that time I never heard any problems mechanically but that had a reputation as rust buckets. They disappeared from the Australian market for a long time.

9 I feel an excellent road test would be to do a comparison between the four major vehicles used in motor homes. Ie. Mercedes Sprinter, Fiat Ducato, VW Crafter and Iveco Daily. This would have to be a no holes barred, warts and all review so as to reveal both the good and bad points of these vehicles.

Please take these comments in the spirit in which they are given.

Bryan via email.

Hi Bryan, thanks for your email and glad you're finding the road tests helpful. Regarding only pointing out the good points, the reality is there are no bad motorhome base vehicles on sale in Australia. The Ducato/ Iveco/Sprinter/Crafter are all capable, modern machines, while the Transit is good but showing its age and due to be replaced next year. There really isn't anything bad to report about them, it just comes down to personal choice, preference for front or rear-wheel drive – and your budget. Perhaps the Ducato's biggest shortcoming is its short travel front suspension that does tend to crash over bumps at speed, but it's hardly a deal breaker.

The good news about the Fiat product these days is it's nothing like the Fiat product of yesterday, especially in terms of build quality or reliability. What's even better news is that about a

year ago Fiat (which now owns Chrysler) gave its Australian distributor the flick and set up factory owned operations in Australia. This means service and support are a whole new ballgame, especially since the time of those reports in the web link you sent through. When Fiat took over here there were 27 dealers, half of which were quickly terminated. They now have 40 'serious' dealers around Australia and there will be 60

by Xmas. I've recently done a head office tour in Melbourne and their new Australian setup is impressive. Fiat/Chrysler Australia is spending up big and is deadly serious about supporting its products and customers. They also now provide a 48-72 hour parts delivery service from Italy if a part isn't available in Australia (which seems unlikely these days). I'd have no hesitation in recommending a Ducato to anybody and would buy one myself if I were in the market.

News

10 2nd August, 2013

k Australian Motorhomes Awarded k

AUSTRALIAN MOTORHOMES WINS INDUSTRY AWARD

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ustralian Motorhomes

Australian Motorhomes – also

and conduct and treatment of

The Caravan andbeen Camping Industry Association recognises the–high in the RV industry and a and has just awarded knownofasNSW Avida Newcastle is onachievers customers throughout theatsale glittering function held at Star City in Sydney attended by the luminaries of the NSW Caravan and Motorhome Industry, Best Regional was RV Dealer Highway Bennett’s process.

Australian Motorhomes announced asthe thePacific Best Regional RVatDealer in NSW, a after-sale prestigious and eagerly sought after award which recognises excellence in the manner the award recipients conduct their business. in NSW by the Caravan and Green, around 10 kilometres south

Australian Motorhomes has

Industry Association Newcastle and 175 “ICamping am very proud of the whole AMH team” of Ron Warden, owner andkilometres Dealer Principal of Australian Motorhomes said previously won Avida’s 2012 Dealer (CCIA) of NSW. north Sydney.

TheI know business when hearing of the win, “everyone here puts in aofbig effort and they are also proud of their achievements as of the Year and Service Dealer of most of the staff have been here for a longoccupies time” a substantial 2 ha “I am very proud of the whole

the Year awards

(5 acre) site Newcastle and stocksisnew Avida Australian Motorhomes, who are also known as Avida located on the Pacific Highway at Bennett’s Green, AMH 10 team,” said Australian around kilometres south of the thriving motorhomes city of Newcastle and 175 kilometres and a wide selection north of Sydney. They conduct business TheaCCIA of NSWofrecognised, from a huge 5 acre siteand anddealer have an impressive display of new Avida motorhomes and wide selection used vehicles.

Motorhomes owner

of used vehicles.

“The high achievers in the RV principal Ron Warden on hearing In deciding the winners, Industry auditors physically inspect and assess each eligible candidate for the award and points at a glittering function of the win. “Everyone here and putsdisplay, The CCIA that in deciding the industry are provided for presentation systems andsays procedures, staff knowledge and conduct and treatment of held at Star City in Sydney customers throughout the sale process importantly after the sale. inspect in a big effort and I know they are andwinners, Industry auditors attended by the luminaries of the also proud achievements, as and assess each candidate’s Each divisionofoftheir the dealership is assessed in this manner, the new andvarious used vehicle sales department, the service and aftersales team and the been administrative customerPoints relations the winners awardCaravan must beand ableMotorhome to most of the staff have here for anddivisions. areand allocated for of theNSW demonstrate high standards of compliance in these areas.

The competition for these awards is quite fierce to win Industry,” according toand a press a long time.” presentation and display, systems ahead of professional competition is a testament to the manner Australian Motorhomes approach their business and it is release. andafter procedures, no wonder that they continue to lead the way so many staff yearsknowledge in the Caravan and Camping Industry.

Australian Motorhomes was the recipient of Avida’s prestigious Dealer of the Year award 2012 and Avida Service Dealer of the Year and they continue to challenge the industry with innovative and progressive business practices.

v TRAKKOLADES! v

About Avida: Winnebago Australia launched another brand, Avida, in February 2013. Avida is derived from the word Avid, meaning passionate. Family owned and 100% Australian, Avida is Australia’s No. 1 motorhome manufacturer.

Established in 1965, Avida locally designs and manufactures a wide range of motorhomes at its state of the art factory in n breaking just as Manufacturer - Motorhomes, Emu Plains, on the western outskirts of Sydney and is a majornews employer of we people fromBest the local area. All Avida motorhomes are built with strength and longevity in mind and comply with all Australian Government design and safety went to press, Trakka has campervans and fifth-wheelers regulations across their entire range.

I

added its already impressive trophy cabinet by taking out the following awards from the CCIA NSW:

Best of the Best - Trade Business over all the different category winners

Congratulations to everyone Rising Star - for trainee Yannick For further information please contact Max Mayo on 02 4735 8116, 0400 866 523 or email PR@avidarv.com.au. in the Trakka team for such Sottaz www.avidarv.com.au an excellent effort.

Safe Unsubscribe from future Avida RV releases. Follow Avida on Facebook.

News

11

o New Heavy Duty RV Power Socket Accessorieso used by many Australians in their RVing. Narva recognised the need for a range of DC power accessories to better charge, conduct and adapt power for these devices.”

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ccording to a press release, “The days of fidgety, poor performing power accessories are over, following the release of Narva’s new Heavy Duty Recreational Vehicle (HDRV) range, available in a broad selection of socket options and amperage ratings.”

“The HDRV range was developed to meet the increasing array of electronic devices now being

“Accessories in the new HDRV range are constructed to handle constant, daily operation; many carry a 20 amp load, feature thicker cabling and are generally more robust than traditional retail accessories, making them ideal to power a myriad of accessories from tablets to fridges.”

“Offering a broad range of adapters and extension leads to connect traditional accessory plugs to this broad range of equipment, the HDRV range is available with

variants suitable for Engel type, Merit and USB accessories. These can be connected to the traditional OEM style power socket, or alternatively, a selection of surfacemounted single and twin assemblies are also available for interior or exterior use.”

“Complementing the range are extension leads of up to five metres in length, providing connection options for fridges and auxiliary power some distance away from the vehicle.

The new Narva HDRV power accessories range is available from leading automotive, caravan and recreational vehicle outlets.” Check them out at www.narva.com.au.

6 Shannons’ Dream Holiday Draw!6

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hannons is offering motoring enthusiasts the chance to win a 13 day tour for two of the Italian Alps and Lakes region including driving the famous Stelvio Pass. Plus you’ll visit Venice, Milan and Italy’s ‘Motor Valley’ with tours of the world’s most famous supercar and motorcycle makers.

The Shannons Italian Alps & Supercar tour includes: 2 economy class airfares to Venice, Italy and return from Milan, Italy 12 nights twin share accommodation

11 days Mercedes-Benz C180 CDI Wagon (or similar) car hire* Tours of the Ferrari, Lamborghini & Ducati Museums Factory tours of Lamborghini & Ducati production lines Ferrari California “You Drive” Experience* A$1000 spending money or A$5000 if you are an Eligible Shannons Club Member Mark Behr, Shannons Marketing Manager said, “This Italian Alps and Supercar driving tour should Continued...

News

12 Y Shopper Dockets Con Z

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he Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC) welcomed comments from Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), Chairman, Rod Sims, after he voiced concerns about shopper dockets in the retail fuel industry.

Mr Sims said, “If Coles and Woolworths wish to offer their customers a discount, it should be off supermarket products.”

For many years the VACC has warned against the shopper docket discount scheme and reported that

supermarket domination of the retail fuel industry is killing off independent service stations. The VACC has welcomed Mr Sim’s criticism of Coles and Woolworths’ retail fuel shopper docket discount schemes when he said, “While large shopper docket discounts provide short term benefits to some consumers, the likely harm to other fuel retailers, and therefore to competition and the competitive process for petrol retailing could well be substantial.”

“The VACC has been warning of this for years,” VACC Executive Director, Mr Purchase said.

“Independent service stations have declined in droves and if shopper docket discounts are not stopped there will be no independent fuel retailers left, no effective competition and fuel prices will skyrocket. It’s not rocket science,

yet it’s been happening right under our noses.”

“Shopper docket discounts are a farce. Consumers are lead to believe they are getting a bargain. In fact, shopper dockets are a con because the discounted fuel is funded by higher grocery prices. The last time I looked, Coles and Woolworths were not registered as charitable institutions and I cannot see them giving us something for nothing.”

“Now we need the Federal Government to intervene and protect consumers and small business independent service stations. In addition, the ACCC must be given more powers. Mr Sims has authority to investigate and report, but not take effective action. We all know what’s going on and the time has come to do something about it.” Mr Purchase concluded.

...Continued from previous page.

be on everyone’s wish list and in plus a tour of the production lines particular the Stelvio Pass, made of Lamborghini and Ducati.” famous when voted the best driving “To top it all off experience what road by Top Gear.” it’s like to get behind the wheel of a “This is your chance to experience Ferrari California* – an experience this amazing 12-day driving tour, you will remember forever. Then starting in Venice you’ll drive off to Milan, Italy’s fashion capital through the Italian Alps and lakes for some last minute shopping district with spectacular scenery before heading home. This is a truly around every bend. The tour also spectacular prize, so if you need includes a must for all motoring insurance for your car, bike or home enthusiasts – a stopover at Italy’s make sure you are in the draw to ‘Motor Valley’ with tours of Ferrari, win.” Mark said.

Lamborghini & Ducati Museums *Car hire and the Ferrari California Drive Experience are subject to terms and conditions of car hire providers.

To enter go to shannons.com.au/ italy or call 13 46 46 and obtain an eligible quote or takeout a new Car, Bike or Home and Contents policy+ before 31 October 2013.

Entrants will receive one entry per risk quoted and five entries per risk for new policies purchased+. For full competition details go to shannons. com.au/italy. Participants must be 21 years or older to enter.

Good luck!

News

13 ❈ Expansion Plans Applauded ❈

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he plan for the Kenilworth (Sunshine Coast, Queensland) showground expansion is set to receive a helping hand, with the Mayor and Councillor Rogerson providing $45,000 in discretionary funding to help with the purchase of nearby land.

Mayor Jamieson said the land purchase will enable the Kenilworth Hall Show and Recreation Ground Association to grow its current operations, benefiting the Kenilworth and surrounding communities.

“Expansion of the showgrounds will provide additional sporting facilities, allow extra space for camping and boost the local economy,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“Many visitors park their caravans or motorhomes at the showgrounds and use Kenilworth

as a base to explore everything the Coast has to offer. These people provide vital commerce for local businesses and are essential to the economic sustainability of the township.”

“The hall and showgrounds are (also) used for many public events and sporting activities, including the annual show and rodeo,” Cr Rogerson said.

Blair Meldrum of the Kenilworth Hall Show and Recreation Ground Association, said the group was very appreciative of the funding and agreed the extra land would help Kenilworth’s economy.

“As a community organisation, the association greatly appreciates the valuable funding support provided by the Mayor and Councillor Rogerson. We are proud to provide a wide range of facilities which

benefit the entire Kenilworth community.”

Mayoral and Councillor Discretionary Funding gives councillors the ability to allocate discretionary funds to community organisations to benefit Sunshine Coast residents.

From mysunshinecoast.com.au via freechoicecamps.com.au

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

Distant Horizon Alice Springs to Ballina in Horizon’s new 4WD Waratah...

Review and images by Richard Robertson

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Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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The 4WD Waratah is a big machine ideally suited to a couple wanting to get away. Right away...

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otorhome tests are usually short due to few companies having the wherewithal to run demonstrators and/or the desire to clock up many kilometres on them. So when Horizon Motorhome’s CEO Clayton Kearney asked me if I’d like to drive his new 4WD Waratah from Alice Springs to Ballina – the final leg of a marathon ‘proving’ run and family holiday – the answer was a foregone conclusion.

Horizon specialises in big van conversions (think Fiat Ducato/ VW Crafter/MB Sprinter) and has established an excellent reputation for quality, durability

– and happy customers. The Waratah is Horizon’s new flagship. It’s a conversion of the Mercedes Benz Sprinter van and available in both 2 and 4 wheel-drive, with two engine options. On-road prices start at $123,000 and rise to $157,000, before options.

the inclusion of a two-seat/ seatbelt dinette upgrade.

On-road price for the test vehicle was $188,000, which is highly competitive for such a comprehensively equipped 4WD motorhome and a full list of the options fitted is detailed at the end of this review.

The test Waratah – also the prototype – was built on a Mercedes Benz Sprinter 519 CDI 4X4 van and specced for Clayton and his family.

The main difference with a normal production model was the replacement of the rear over-bed cupboards by a set of fold-down bunks for his teenage children and

Near-new when it left Ballina on June 22nd, with just 788 km on the clock, we picked it up in Alice Springs on July 21st, with the odometer reading 10,086 km. That’s almost half an average vehicle’s annual mileage in one month! On top of that, Clayton reported at least 3000 km had been over severely rough/

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Free camping in the bush: Easy, thanks to the Waratah’s 4WD system and good steering lock.

corrugated roads. He said that at times, while attempting to video how much abuse the interior was being subjected to, it was even too rough to hold the video camera sufficiently still!

From Ballina the Waratah had travelled across NSW to Port Augusta, up to Uluru, into Alice Springs and then across the Tanamai Track, directly to the Kimberley. After a short break in Broome it headed north to Cape Leveque, then back down and along the infamous Gibb River Road before returning to Alice Springs via the blacktop for our rendezvous.

Our plan was to take the Plenty

Highway, which basically runs eats from Alice Springs to the Queensland border, where it becomes the Donahue Highway and makes its way into the tiny town of Boulia.

From there we’d head south to Birdsville before turning east again and making our way across the width of

Queensland, then nipping across the border into NSW and Ballina on Sunday, July 28th. In the end our plans were cut short by a day, due to airline lost luggage, and we had to miss Birdsville and head from Boulia to Winton and then straight down the highway home, detouring via Mt

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Mercedes’ Sprinter V6 turbodiesel auto with 4WD is a formidable starting point.

Tambourine in the Gold Coast Hinterland to visit friends (sort of like a consolation present).

Our eight-day adventure added 3363 km to the odometer and around 750 km of that was dirt. In places it was rough enough to shake the fillings in our teeth and over two full days of dirt road driving we shook the Waratah senseless more

than a few times and refilled it with red dirt (after Clayton’s careful pre-pick-up detailing).

Sorry about that...

Vantastic he Sprinter 519 CDI 4X4 is a long wheelbase model with dual rear wheels and a 4490 kg gross vehicle mass (GVM). A standard Waratah

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On bitumen or dirt the 4WD Waratah is right at home.

has a tare (empty) weight of 3565 kg (inc water and fuel), leaving a generous 925 kg for passengers, food, clothing and everything else. The test Waratah tipped the scales around 3850 kg empty, but including water (min 100 kg) and full fuel (optional 100 L tank/83 kg), leaving more than 600 kg for passengers and possessions.

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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We kept the dust to show we used it! Sprinter dash is stereotypically German: efficient but grey.

Instrument lighting good, Garmin GPS unimpressive.

Other screen for reversing cameras.

Powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel producing 140 kW and 440 Nm, and driving through a 5-speed full automatic transmission with selectable 4WD (inc low range), it’s a formidable starting point. Of course it’s packed with the expected Mercedes Benz safety equipment like dual airbags, antilock brakes, traction and stability controls. It also bristles with convenience items like remote central locking, a multifunction steering wheel with a comprehensive trip computer and audio controls; a cruise control/speed limiter wand, cab aircon, electric windows, electric mirrors and a radio/ CD sound system with inbuilt Bluetooth for your phone.

In normal conditions drive is

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Custom engine bash plates proved an excellent addition. via the rear wheel. High-range 4WD is selectable via a small button on the dash and there is no requirement to hop out to lock-in the front hubs.

The handbook says you can engage 4WD at or below 10 km/h, but in practice it’s best to stop. Low-range 4WD is selectable via a second dash button and the vehicle must be stopped to engage/disengage.

Front suspension is independent (with a transverse semi-elliptic spring and damper struts) while a conventional live axle/leaf spring combination looks after the rear. Ground clearance is listed at 200 mm and I’d say the lowest point is under the front suspension crossmember. So would a rock that was sitting on top of

Independent front suspension is complex but ride quality is excellent.

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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The winch and driving lights are probably overkill, but the steel bull bar is a must. the mound between the wheel tracks somewhere back on the Plenty Highway. Fortunately it left nothing more than a small mark on the custom bash plate and as everything else is well tucked up beneath the van, if you can get the front wheels over an obstacle the rest of the van will follow.

Having said that you do need to be mindful of the long 4.3 m (14 ft 1 in) wheelbase, as ramp-over angle (think of driving over a small mound/ ridge/gutter) quickly becomes this vehicle’s limiting of-road driving factor.

Sixteen inch wheels look small but are all that’s available from Mercedes.

The Sprinter rides on 16-inch steel wheels and comes with Continental Vano 205/75 R16 tyres rated for mud and snow.

I’m not sure they were ever intended for the Australian Outback, but they did an

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Huge doors with optional full-cover insect screens make camping a breeze. Literally... outstanding job in all conditions and survived the entire trip without a single puncture and with few visible signs of tread damage. Impressive.

Delivering the Goods lthough it’s a light commercial vehicle the Sprinter’s body works well as a motorhome conversion. All delivery-style vans have sliding side doors, which in the motorhome world are collectively known a “whizz-bangs,” for the sound they make, especially in campsites at all hours of the day and night. The powered door option of the test Waratah eliminated that problem; instead opening and closing with just a slight hum from the electric motor and a discreet beeping from a warning

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buzzer. Operated from the key fob or a dash switch (and able to be closed by a switch inside the B-pillar), the door can also be left partially open at any point on its travel and proved an invaluable addition I initially dismissed as a gimmick. Considering the size and weight of the sliding side door, the power option is also a genuine Godsend for anyone smaller than a burley delivery driver – especially on an incline or in strong winds.

Two other options that proved their worth were the internal side-door and rear-door insect screens. With centre sections able to be rolled up out of the way when not in use they are a Horizon signature item and an absolute must-have in my opinion. The pleasure of siting

back and enjoying the fresh air and view the huge side door affords – insect free – cannot be overrated. Similarly, with the rear door screens in place the ease with which you can cool the vehicle down inside simply by opening the rear and side doors (while also retaining a degree of privacy), instead of having to rush around and open individual windows and vents, is impressive. This is especially handy at coffee and lunch stops, and of course you could even sleep with any combination of doors open on a warm night if the security situation permitted.

The Waratah has only one external locker and it’s at the rear on the driver’s side.

It houses a pair of 4 kg gas bottles and on our journey

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

Tucked into Gemtree Caravan Park, NT, with all services connected. also the fresh and grey water hoses. The main storage area is under the bed and accessed via the rear doors, but there are a couple of under-bed areas only accessible from inside. The test Waratah was already packed with gear when we picked it up, including four folding camp chairs, two folding camping tables, an outdoor stainless steel barbecue, a slide-out chest fridge and a myriad of other bits and pieces Clayton and his family had packed and/or acquired on their travels.

The big rear barn doors didn’t seal particularly well, probably due to movement exacerbated by the road conditions, and

Storage space was at a premium!

Embossed leather seats are a nice touch.

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Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Optional approved dinette seating for two adds versatility.

Note wall-mounted 240 and 12 V power points, plus USB chargers. we experienced a fair amount of red dust ingress on the dirt.

Coupled with dust coming in around the fridge vents I think), this is the one area of the vehicle’s design that needs some attention.

Horizon fits five Seitz double glazed hopper windows with inbuilt insect and privacy screens to the Waratah,

plus a pair of fan hatches to the roof and another over the bathroom. The single 200 AH house battery with Redarc 3-stage charging system is a Horizon standard and integrates well with the optional twin solar panels.

Naturally an awning is fitted and in this case it’s a 4-metre Fiama wind-out unit.

Driving Ambition here is no doubting Mercedes’ ability to engineer a totally ‘together’ vehicle. If you’ve never driven a ‘Benz – any ‘Benz – you can’t quite appreciate how well they drive. The Sprinter extends this experience to the light commercial vehicle market and it’s just a pleasure – albeit

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The front dinette was our dining area of choice and the table could also be used outdoors.

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Optional CB radio was neatly installed and surprisingly, the mike position didn’t interfere with the gear selector.

Note cruise/speed limiter wand above indicator stalk.

Chameleon eat your heart out... a not desperately exciting or involving one – to drive. Unlike Fiat’s Italian character-filled Ducato, this big van perfectly reflects its national heritage.

The Sprinter’s driving position is very car-like, with an almost vertical steering wheel. While the dash looks Teutonically dull

in all-over sombre grey and the HVAC (heating, ventilation and airconditioning controls) system takes a bit of getting used to, everything works well and both driver and passenger comfort over even the longest days is very good. Part of that can be attributed to the 4WD

Sprinter’s surprisingly supple ride, a feature not unique to the test Waratah. Mercedes’ engineers have certainly done an excellent job of tailoring the spring and damper rates without sacrificing toughness or inducing body roll. In fact you’d be hard pressed to tell it

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

25

Big rear doors allowed some dust ingress, probably exacerbated by rough-road induced movement. is a 4WD when you’re behind the wheel. Even at speed the Waratah sits solidly, exhibiting minimal body roll and delivering excellent ride comfort.

The ‘big’ 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel is a delightful engine to drive behind. Smooth and with a gutsy ‘I’m serious’ tone, it mates perfectly to the six-speed automatic gearbox to deliver a class-leading driving experience. Combined with the excellent driving position, a wide range of seat travel, decent steering wheel adjustment, good visibility and excellent ride quality, you have perhaps the perfect long distance cruiser – over any road surface.

Both front seats were comfortable after hours, even after a long drive.

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

26

Although both front seats swivel 180 degrees and lock in, they can also be used more flexibly – like this.

On bitumen road cruising we got 14.5 - 15.5 L/100 km (19.5 - 18.2 mpg). At speed on dirt, with high-range 4WD engaged, we saw around 17 L/100 km (16.6 mpg). Not bad for a 4.5-tonne vehicle being driven with deadlines in mind and no particular regard for economy.

I did use cruise control whenever possible (and safe), but also made good use of the speed limiter on the dirt roads and in traffic. It lets you set a maximum speed that cannot be exceeded no matter how hard you press the accelerator.

One thing I found, which Malcolm also encountered with Trakka’s 4WD Jabiru Sprinter, is what appears to be a factory-set speed limiter around 125 km/h. I found it when overtaking a 53-metre

Cabinet supports rangehood and hides electrical switches.

Wall buttons are for ceiling and awning lights. road train. Interesting!

The Great Indoors n van conversion terms the Waratah’s overall interior layout is quite conventional.

Up front it features swiveling cab seats plus a small dinette and forward-facing passenger seats on the driver’s side.

In the centre is a kerb-side

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kitchen and a driver’s-side bathroom, while the rear is taken up by a huge full-width bed with a small dinette area at the front that could be left made if you’re short enough to sleep across the vehicle (more on that later).

The van body is lined inside and has insulation above its

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

27

Oddly shaped dinette table works well for offset seating positions. Last lunch leftovers – yum! additional cupboard space is preferable over the microwave.

Dining he front seats swivel easily and the dining table, which stores behind the forward-facing dinette seat when not in use or when carrying passengers, we left in-situ during our travels. It slides along a small wall track and can therefore be pushed aft when traveling, to make room for the driver’s seat. It can also be taken outside, where it attaches to a rail on the sliding side door. There are high quality LED reading lights above both front seats and a strip LED over the dinette, a double 240 V power point in the wall beneath the dinette table, a 12 V outlet and a pair

T The test Waratah was carrying a lot of gear... embossed plywood ceiling.

The floor is covered in industrial strength vinyl and all cupboards are made from hardpressed plywood finished with a lightweight laminate. In terms of structural strength the Waratah’s interior passed its torture test with flying colours.

Only the addition of a cheap Bunning’s barrel lock on the

oversize pantry door proved necessary, Clayton said, to prevent it springing open on the worst corrugations.

Given that this was a one-off door (the microwave usually occupies about half that space) it’s understandable.

I’m also sure a redesign is already under way in case any customer decides the

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

28

of USB charging connectors – the first I’ve seen in an Australian motorhome. Clever.

Removable rear dinette table becomes part of the bed base at night.

Where’s it all going to fit? Staff rebellion, Alice Springs.

Another small dining area is provided at the front end of the bed, where a cutout in the bed base provides single inwards-facing seats on either side of the vehicle. There’s also a multi-adjustable table that becomes part of the bed base at night. It’s right where the kitchen and wardrobe end panels meet the bed and the backrest cushions, which become part of the mattress, aren’t deep enough to really make this a comfortable arrangement. Good perhaps for extra dinner guests, we much preferred the front dinette.

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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The abuse this van endured at the hands of the terrain has given me total respect for Mercedes' engineering integrity and that of Horizon’s motorhome conversion.

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah Cooking he kitchen, which sits on the kerb side between the side door and bed, is well sized and equipped. It comes with a 3-burner gas cooktop and single-bowl sink with fold-up flick-mixer tap, all in the one unit but with individual smoked glass lids; a filtered drinking water tap; a rangehood with LED lights and a two-speed fan, and an under-bench 12/240 V 110-litre Waeco compressor fridge just by the bed. Above the sink is a 48 cm (19 in) LED HD TV/DVD on a wall bracket that connects to one of Winegard’s new style Sensar wind-up aerials on the roof.

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A microwave is standard in the Waratah but was not fitted to this vehicle. It sits in the angled cupboard at the front end of the kitchen unit, by the side entry door. Clayton used this whole space as an extralarge pantry, reasoning they

30

weren’t going to use mains power much and the additional cupboard space would prove invaluable.

The Waratah is the first Horizon design to have a range hood as well as the usual window behind the cooker and I’d

Mrs iMotorhome juggling all her (meat)balls in the air – again!

Look at the size of that view! Optional insect screen is a must; powered side door highly desirable.

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah think the window could easily be done away with and the extra space used for a spice rack or similar. Above the range hood is a small twodoor cupboard and it now houses the electrical switches, battery condition meter, tank level gauge, Truma hot water service switch and a 12/240 V fridge switch. A double 240 V power point and a single 12 V socket are mounted on the forward-facing end of the cupboard, while on the vehicle’s side wall just above the TV is a small panel with two push buttons: one for the six LED ceiling lights and the other for the two LED awning lights.

Scrubbing Up! he bathroom sits opposite the kitchen on the driver’s side, aft of the dinette and separated from the bed by a pair of fairly narrow top-and-bottom wardrobes/cupboards.

Featuring a full length mirror door that adds a feeling of space to the Waratah’s interior, the bathroom is compact inside but has pretty much everything you need. This includes a cassette toilet with a ceramic bowel and an SOG fan extraction system that removes odours and breaks down waste without the need for chemicals; a quality hand shower with adjustable wall mount; a mirror; a small corner vanity unit with a sink on top and a pair of drain points in

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Essential electrical switches and info are in this over-rangehood cupboard.

Bathroom sink cupboard doors provide easy access but aren’t quite watertight.

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Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Like all Horizon bathrooms the Waratah’s does what’s needed without taking up any more living space than required. the floor pan. There’s also a shower curtain to cover the door and my only complaint is that the vanity doors don’t seal tightly enough to prevent some water entering.

While certainly not spacious the bathroom is a good comprise between providing sufficient room for the few minutes you’ll use it each time and taking up as little space as possible inside the van. If you need or want more space to wash, there’s always the (standard) external shower!

Water capacity for the Waratah is 100 litres, which might seem a little light-on, but is dictated by the underfloor chassis shape. An optional 75-litre fresh water tank was fitted to the test vehicle, while a 96-litre grey water tank is standard a.

A 14-litre Truma gas hot water system is standard, along with a 19-litre cassette for the loo.

Snoozing e left the rear dinette/ bed made up as a bed from day one and that meant we didn’t

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have to make the bed up every night. Longer than the Fiat Ducato, the Sprinter is narrower and requires northsouth (lengthways) sleeping unless you’re around 5’ 9” (175 cm) or less. Used lengthways the bed is about the size of a king – or damn close – and spacious enough for two people not to disturb each other when rolling over or even getting up during the night. Compared to many a motorhome bed we’ve slept in it’s palatial!

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah Four LED reading lights, the same as those by the cab seats, are provided in each corner of the bed area and provide ample light for reading or just ‘mood’ lighting. On the van wall just aft of the wardrobe end panel, is another double 240 V power point, a single 12 V outlet and another pair of 12 V USB charging connections. It’s also where the optional Eberspacher dieselfired heater control lives.

Well?

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up in Alice Springs the Waratah had traversed Australia coasthis was a unique to-coast and made it halfway opportunity to spend serious time in a serious back, taking in some seriously tough conditions. When we vehicle across some serious collected it it was almost terrain. Apart from some dust leak issues and a non-working back in showroom condition, diesel heater (probably clogged thanks to a concerted effort with dirt), the Horizon Waratah by Clayton and his family the performed flawlessly and, to be previous day, but we soon fixed that. honest, beyond expectations.

Seriously.

Averaging nearly 500 km a day across half of Australia on In the month prior to picking it

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Essentially king sized, the bed provides an abundance of room while (optional) rear insect screen allows breeze without bites.

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Motorhomus Waratahius resting in its natural habitat...

dirt roads and tar we cooked, ate, slept, showered, worked, laughed, sang, thought and explored in the Waratah – and it didn’t miss a beat. It was reliable, capable and comfortable in all situations and proved a machine worthy of high praise for the engineering integrity of both its Mercedes’ underpinnings and Horizon’s robust and thoughtful conversion. It could be just the machine to expand your horizons. Check it out.

The test 4WD Waratah featured the following options, which brought its drive away price to $188,000: • • • • • • • • • •

Electric sliding door Towbar Bull bar – winch compatible Warn Winch (9000 lb capacity) with synthetic rate Driving lights Airbag assisted rear suspension Tyre pressure monitoring system 100-litre fuel tank Engine and gearbox bash plates Diesel heater

• Four seater upgrade • Fiamma thermo controlled roof hatches x 2 • External gas outlet • Additional 75 litre water tank • Solar charging system • Fly screens to side and rear doors • Leather seats • Bunk beds • Twin reversing cameras • Waeco 35-litre chest fridge on slide

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Sundowners are quick and easy to arrange: Just attach the dinette table to the sliding door rail and you’re in business. You can even close the door while still attached – just lift the leg slightly. Cheers!

Touring Test: Horizon Motorhomes’ Waratah

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Specifications Manufacturer

Horizon Motorhomes

Model

4WD Waratah

Base Vehicle

Mercedes Benz 519 CDI 4X4

Engine

3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel

Power

140 kW @ 3800 rpm

Torque

440 Nm @ 1400-2400 rpm

Gearbox

5-speed full auto

Brakes

ABS disc

Tare Weight

3565 kg

Gross Vehicle Mass

4490 kg

Licence

Car

Approved Seating

2

External Length

6.945 m (22 ft 9 in)

External Width

1.993 m (6 ft 6 in)

External Height

2.74 m (9 ft)

Internal Height

1390 mm (4 ft 7 in)

Internal Height (roof up)

1.91 m (6 ft 3 in)

Rear Bed Size

1.95 m x 1.75 m (6 ft 5 in x 5 ft 9 in)

Cooktop

Dometic 3 burner

Fridge

Waeco 12 V 110 litre

Microwave

Yes

Lighting

12 V LED

Batteries

200 AH AGM

Solar Panel

Optional

Heater

Optional

Air Conditioner

Optional

Hot Water Heater

Truma 14 litre

Toilet

Dometic SOG cassette

Shower

Flexible hose, variable height

Fresh Water Tank

100-litre

Grey Water Tank

96-litre

Gas Cylinders

2 x 4.0 kg

Price from

$157,000 on road NSW

Pros • • • • • • • •

Mercedes quality/durability Proven conversion strength Comfort 2WD or 4WD Thoughtful layout Standard equipment Value Ability (4WD)

Cons • Dust sealing issues • Smallish fresh water capacity • Small standard fuel tank

Contact

Horizon Motorhomes Ballina Campervan & Motorhome Centre

299 River St Ballina. NSW. 2478.

Horizon Acacia floor plan pictured: Waratah similar but image not yet available.

Click for Google Maps

Ph: 02 6681 1555 E: info@ballinacampers.com.au W: ballinacampers.com.au

Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

Basecamp

Beyond

Traillite’s Basecamp Kaikoura is worth aspiring to...

Review and images by Malcolm Street

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Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

39

Mercedes Benz Sprinter is at home on both sealed and well graded dirt roads.

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ussie motorhomers might not like it but it’s a fact that for many years, the Kiwis have had a much greater ownership of motorhomes on a percentage of population basis than those living on the “Western Island.” In fact, this writer can remember a time when about the only places where you could rent a motorhome in the Antipodes were either New Zealand or Tasmania. Not sure of the reason but I suspect it had something to do with being relatively small islands with shorter distances for fly/drive tourists.

I mention that bit of trivia as a way of saying that Kiwi motorhomers have a good heritage when it comes to motorhome building and

Pukekohe-based Traillite certainly has a good claim to that, being able to track its beginnings back to 1954.

The company builds a range of motorhomes to suit every budget and taste. Back in April we took a look at the upmarket Landmark Oakura and for this issue, it’s the turn of the Basecamp Kaikoura.

size of the water tanks.

The motorhome body is built using a sandwich panel construction with a foam core, ply wall lining on the inside and Alufiber on the outside – the latter being a layer of fibreglass with a thin layer of powder coated aluminium on the outside. In line with many a motorhome body, the windows are Seitz hoppers The Vehicle nderneath the Kaikoura and the security screen door is a Camec item. I do like the the base vehicle is a Mercedes Benz Sprinter skyview window above the driver’s cab – it’s the nearest CDI 413. It’s powered by a thing in motorhome to driving 2.2-litre 120 kW turbo-diesel that drives through a six-speed around with the top down. A slight downside of the awning auto gearbox. All up the tare weight is 3910 kg, which given and entry door position is that if the rain is sheeting the wrong the GVM of 4490 kg gives a way then it's going to blow good 580 kg load capacity – something necessary given the straight in the door!

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Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

40

Forward entry door and bathroom leads to a lack of kerbside windows.

External storage is quite simple: a full boot across the rear. I did like the hinged-down bin door that means it can be used to rest things on, not to mention as a table. Most of the boot is just empty space (great) but the offside corner is taken by two 9 kg gas cylinders, which are accessed inside the boot. Water storage is quite Does this bum make my back window look big? impressive for both fresh and Yes, but it’s great for viewing. Love the NZ back! grey, at 200 litres each (just be aware that’s a 400 kg total if both are full, leaving only 180 rolls along without too much anything that couldn’t be fixed kg for passengers and all other drama. There are a few steep with a towel in the right place. belongings - Ed). hills around Pukekohe but the All the cab fittings are standard Sprinter didn’t hesitate when I Mercedes Benz Sprinter, On the Road pointed its nose uphill, neither including the cab radio. About ith a length of 7.5 did its slick, full-automatic the only addition was the rear m (24 ft 7 in) and gearbox. Although there was vision camera, integrated into a 120 kW diesel the usual accompaniment of the internal rear vision mirror. under the bonnet, the Kaikoura motorhome noise, there wasn’t

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Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

41

Both cab seats swivel around. Note how the little removable table fits in well with the passenger seat (Interesting upholstery choice - Ed). it's a compromise, but one that many will be happy to live with, especially as the bed does not have to be made up every night.

Windows and skylights give an excellent light level.

Living Inside his layout is an interesting compromise and one designed to get around the problem of the desirability of having a New Zealand Back – a club lounge surrounded by windows – but

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also the need to either have a Luton (over-cab) bed and/or a bed at the rear that has be made up every night. That's been achieved by having an elevating bed in the rear; a technology that has appeared over the last few years and one that works quite well. As I said

By day, windows all round and three skylights give a bright level of natural light. All the Seitz windows and hatches have integrated blinds but the Roman blinds for the rear windows were a nice touch.

By night the halogen and LED lights kick in. The bubble style lights, although effective, did look a little dated, given that LED technology now available. Having all the major control switches located in a panel above the entry door is definitely a major asset.

Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura Having both bed and dinette/ lounge in the rear means that the rest of the layout can be devoted to a kitchen bench along the offside and a shower cubicle and cabinet on the nearside. Up front, both cab seats swivel and I did like the little table that is slightly offset to the passenger seats for drinks and the like! Also handy are the two storage compartments above the passenger’s and driver's seats.

At the back the time honoured club lounge is a great place to put your feet up, relax and enjoy the view. The single pole-mounted table is of a reasonable size and the under-seat storage area is easily accessible thanks to three drawers and one floor locker. With the elevating bed overhead lockers are not going to be a feature, but a small shelf has been built under the offside end of the bed. There is a double power point fitted under the nearside seat which is reasonably handy to use but does mean power cords can be tripped over.

Time to Eat ike all the rest of the cabinetry work, the kitchen is made from plywood with an external covering of high pressure laminate. Undoubtedly one of the kitchen bench features is the multiple number of goodsized drawers. It also has a reasonable amount of bench top area, whilst still having

Overhead lockers with sprung hinges open easily.

Club lounge works well in conjunction with elevating bed above.

Table well sized.

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Spacious drawers under the seat are metal lined, like all the rest.

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Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

43

You can even watch the stars from the swivelled cab seats.

Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura room for a three burner hob (that's NZ speak for cooktop) and grill/oven plus a stainless steel sink (sans drainer). At the forward end of the bench, a microwave oven sits atop a 3-way 190 litre Dometic fridge.

The microwave oven is set back slightly, which does make it a bit awkward for shorter persons, however.

improvement and this one is noticeably smooth in its operation. In this case it’s partly due to Traillite fitting two 12 V drive motors to the Pro Bed Lifting system, rather than the

one specified. As I said, a very smooth performer.

The bed measures 1.88 m x 1.52 m (6 ft 2 in x 5 ft) and comes with an interesting feature. Given the height of

Between the fridge and driver's seat is a handy little cabinet that has hanging space above and drawers below. In a practical move, it’s set back from the fridge cabinet width, thus not blocking access to the swivelled driver's seat.

After Hours arly versions of elevating beds were often quite clunky in their operation but later models are an

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Foldout steps give easy access to the lowered bed.

Bed lowers easily into position with no drama.

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Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

45

the bed above the floor a set of box steps that hinge out of the side dresser makes things much easier. There are two reading lights set along the rear wall but they are not exactly ideally placed for the person on the inside, if they happen to like reading at night. However the adjoining side dresser has a ceiling downlight and the switch is reasonably easy to reach from the bed.

The side cabinet is a busy little item! Not only does it have the bed steps, but also storage space top and bottom and a mounting place for the flat screen TV and radio/ DVD player. There's even a 3.5 mm input socket and in a radical move not seen in too many RVs, a parking place for an iPod/MP3 player. In some ways this cabinet, along with the overhead lockers across the rear, goes someway to address a problem in general with elevating beds: the lack of a bedtime shelf.

Bathroom cabinets provide a reasonable amount of storage.

Bathroom spacious enough for separate shower cubicle, but not oversized.

To my mind the Kaikoura's bathroom size is quite practical: Large enough for a separate shower cubicle, separate vanity wash basin and Thetford cassette toilet but not taking up more space than necessary.

Also fitted are a couple of cupboards, ducted heater outlet and large wall mirror. The

latter being good for everything except trying to get a bathroom photograph!

What we Think ndoubtedly the Traillite Kaikoura is quite a classy motorhome. It has a fit-out that demonstrates both the Company’s long

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Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

46

Nothing like being parked up close to a water view... history and the need to build a contemporary motorhome with all mod cons and technologies.

Certainly, the Kaikoura is well fitted out for long-stay remote travel, with its large water tanks, high battery and solar panel capacities, and good internal storage. Overloading might be the only temptation.

As long as an island bed is not high on your priority list the elevating bed and rear club lounge combo works very well.

All that fitted on a Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis makes for a very good motorhoming combination.

...but you need to reverse in to make the most of the huge rear lounge.

Comment – Gas Cylinder Location Australia and New Zealand are both covered by the same standard on gas system installations: AS/NZ 5601. Now that might make your reasonably think it would mean gas installations on both sides of the Tasman would be similar!

Not necessarily so, I’m afraid.

Take the two gas cylinders in the boot of this motorhome. That arrangement would not be legal in Australia, where the standard is interpreted as requiring an external bin door only (not internal via the boot door as is the case here). Well, almost most of Australia; in Victoria things are slightly different and a van conversion with the gas cylinders inside the rear door would be signed off as correct, but nowhere else in Australia.

Some years ago I talked to a gas compliance person in NZ who told me he had been to Australia to see if everyone could agree on how AS/NZ5601 was interpreted. He discovered there were differences of opinion amongst the Australian States and therefore getting a common agreement with NZ just wasn’t going to happen! All very confusing I have to say.

P.S. Just so as we are totally clear here, this arrangement is perfectly legal in NZ where the motorhome is sold.

Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a well appointed motorhome within its given length.

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Day Test: Traillite Basecamp Kaikoura

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Specifications Manufacturer

TRAILLite

Model

Basecamp Kaikoura 49 Lowline

Base Vehicle

Mercedes Benz CDI 416

Engine

2.2-litre turbo-diesel

Power

120 kW @ 3800 rpm

Torque

360 Nm @ 1400-2400 rpm

Gearbox

6 speed full automatic

Brakes

ABS Disc

Tare Weight

3910 kg

Gross Vehicle Mass

4490 kg

Towing Capacity

2000 kg

Licence

Car

Passengers

2

External Length

7.5 m (24 ft 7 in)

External Width

2.42 m (7 ft 11 in)

External Height

3.08 m (10 ft 1 in)

Internal Height

2.00 m (6 ft 7 in)

Rear Bed Size

1.88 m x 1.52 m (6 ft 2 in x 5 ft)

Cooktop

Thetford three burner, grill & oven

Fridge

Dometic 3-way 190-litre

Microwave

Panasonic

Lighting

12V LED

Batteries

260 AH

Gas

2x9

Heater

Propex gas

Solar Panels

130 W

Air Conditioner

Optional

Hot Water Heater

Atwood 23-litre

Toilet

Thetford cassette

Shower

Separate cubicle

Fresh Water Tank

200-litres

Grey Water Tank

200-litres

Price as tested

NZ$191,065.00 on road NZ

Pros • Elevating bed and club lounge in rear • Good sized kitchen with excellent drawer space • Bed step • Space efficient bathroom • Well finished interior • Good battery/solar capacity

Cons

• Under-seat power point location • Microwave oven location • Awning/entry door proximity • Can I have the keys for longer?

Contact TrailLite 77 Paerata Road Pukekohe, Auckland. NZ. 2120

Click for Google Maps

Ph: 0800 872 455 W: www.traillite.co.nz E: Contact form via website

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Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency

Being Energy

t n e i c effi

Delving into ways to save you energy – and money.

Story and images

by Malcolm Street.

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Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency

51

Motorhome lighting is a major power drain. The right mix of lighting technologies, plus using them wisely, is the key...

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eing energy efficient in all spheres of life is very much the theme of contemporary times – and none more so than in the world of campervans and motorhomes. Fortunately, in many areas manufacturers are very much up to speed with the latest technologies!

Over the past decade there have been a number of developments that have worked very well for the entire Recreational Vehicle (RV) industry: Everything from light weight solar panels to LED lighting and diesel powered appliances.

Electrical Energy lthough for many years the traditional sources of energy have simply

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230 or 240 volts?

Just digressing into a bit of jargon here, particularly as this article refers to both Australia and New Zealand. In Australia, mains power is supplied at 240 V, but in New Zealand it’s 230 V. In theory both countries should supply 230 V in line with International Standard IEC 60038, which is the result of an international effort to get a compromise voltage between been 240 V mains power and LP gas, the adoption of some new technologies has changed that and it's frequently the case that a mix of energy sources is what works best for many travellers.

For most motorhomers who

220 and 240 V (as used in a number of other countries). In practice the difference between Australia and NZ doesn't matter because there is a legal tolerance factor of 10% and as many travellers know 230/240 V devices work well in both countries. For the purposes of this article I'll refer to mains power as 240 V.

hook up to 240 V mains power on a regular basis, having on-board energy efficient devices is not always a priority.

However, there is no reason why it should’t be and for those who desire to remote camp for extended periods it’s a matter

Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency

A small 240 V generator like this quiet Honda unit can easily be tucked away. that requires some attention.

Often the assumption with a remote camping lifestyle is that a 240 V mains generator is needed. One push of the start button or pull of the cord and mains power is on tap.

However, generators do have several disadvantages: they are fuel users, add weight, they

52 12 V batteries (24 V in some coaches and trucks) are the alternative source of electrical power when 240 V mains supply is not available.

However they do require a source of charging power.

In many motorhomes that is the alternator as the vehicle is moving along. That becomes a problem, of course, when in camp.

That can be solved by using can be noisy and therefore solar panels to charge a battery socially unacceptable and in bank; there being plenty of many places, like National/DOC sun in both Australia and New parks, their use is banned.

Zealand. This might surprise Their advantage is that they are a few people but solar panels most effective in running 240 V work more effectively in New air conditioners and microwave Zealand than Australia. The ovens (recently there have been reason is that they depend on developments in running these light rather than heat to function off 12 V DC from high-energy correctly and are more efficient lithium batteries). when running cool.

Solar is becoming the norm across the RV world – and the more roof space the better.

Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency

Three-way fridges and gas cooking allow extended remote camping, limited more by water capacity than anything else...

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Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency Solar panels are preferred by many for being quiet, mostly unobtrusive and pollution free. Indeed, a motorhome roof provides an excellent mounting point for solar panels.

Of course, solar panels do have few disadvantages too – they don’t generate 240 V AC (except through a battery bank and inverter), they do require a battery bank and initial investment isn’t always cheap.

If buying a new rig or considering some electrical additions to your existing rig, before investing in any of the above it’s worth doing a little evaluation of power consumed by all on board devices. The reason I suggest this step is that for example, if you own a small caravan or campervan that you want to make self

sufficient, it may mean nothing more than making a few device changes and installing a larger capacity or different type of house battery. Of all the electrical devices used in a motorhome the 3 common to most are the fridge, 12 V lighting and water pump. There are of course others, like TV (including satellite), radio and battery chargers for items like lap top computers and cameras.

Electrical Energy – Refrigeration he biggest energy consumption device in most RVs is the allessential fridge. Two of the most common types around are the absorption cycle (‘three-way’) and the 12/24 V compressor type and

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Acres of solar and a 12 V aircon unit: What more do you need?

54 each has its advantages and disadvantages.

The three-way (mostly made

by Dometic and Thetford) must be reasonably level and can be operated on 240 V, 12 V or LPG. However, it is not particularly energy efficient on 12 V operation (about the same as leaving your headlights on I believe - Ed), but can be operated over an extended period of time quite satisfactorily on gas.

On the other hand, 12/24 V compressor fridges (Waeco and Interfrigo) draw a much lower electrical current, which isn’t a problem if you have a battery and charging system to match. They can also be more efficient in hot conditions, especially in places like tropical Northern Australia.

Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency

55 Electrical Energy – Lighting ne of the easiest things to make more energy efficient (if it isn’t already) is the 12 V lighting system. It is not so common these days, but most manufacturers used to install incandescent globe fittings.

They certainly illuminate well, but actually generate more heat than light. Until recently, fluorescent tubes or halogen globes were the way to go in terms of both light output and reduced power consumption.

However, Light Emitting Diode (LED) lamps have appeared on the scene in a big way. These have a very low current draw, can be very bright and are now available in both ‘cold’ and ‘warm’ tones. They are still quite expensive, but that is changing as development proceeds. In terms of reduced energy consumption they are the real stars.

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Even large two-door fridges can run efficiently on LPG. For people planning extended time away from mains power and trying to keep electrical requirements to a minimum, the three-way fridge is undoubtedly the way to go – as long as the gas supply is adequate.

A 9.0kg gas cylinder is vastly more efficient at storing energy in terms of weight and size than an equivalently rated battery bank.

Two things to remember with three-way fridges is that they should A: Be Tropical rated (a ‘T’ should appear on the nameplate, next to Climate Class) for higher Australian temperatures and B: Have adequate bottom-to-top ventilation, which is essential for efficient operation. There have been problems with three-way fridges in the past when air vents have been incorrectly installed.

In case you are interested, going from worst to best the energy efficiency list is as follows: incandescent, halogen, fluorescent and LED. If you are trying to get your lighting system more efficient then it might be a simple matter of changing light fittings, which can be the easiest of jobs. Being 12 V supplied, as long as you are a competent handyperson there shouldn’t be any particular problems. A little tip here though: Be very careful if drilling into walls and ceilings. It might well be better

Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency

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to use either a slow speed or hand drill, lest you drill a holetoo-far and have to get out the silicon gun! Some compact fluorescent globes will fit straight into an incandescent lamp without requiring any tools or fitting change.

If buying a new rig that you are intending to be energy efficient with, it’s not a bad idea to give some thought to the internal colour scheme. Dark stain timber might look very nice, but it acts like a black hole for light and therefore requires more light fittings to get the same level of light, compared to a light coloured interior. Think similarly with window location and the effects of shadows on natural light.

Electrical Energy – Water pumps n electric water pump is found in most RVs these days. While these do consume a certain amount of electrical power, they are in most cases used intermittently except in rigs with showers. If you are really desperate to conserve battery power, a hand or foot pump could be retro installed if it’s cheaper or more practical than an additional battery or solar panel.

All-in-one cooker and sink provides space efficiency in a small motorhome.

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This diesel-fired cooker is great for remote area travel.

Electrical Energy – Microwave Oven he story so far covers the basics, but another device commonly found in RVs is microwave ovens:

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Water pumps don’t usually run long enough to be a major power concern.

Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency truly little energy suckers.

Mostly 240 V devices, they will require a substantial inverter (for converting 12 V to 240 V mains supply) to be used.

A trap for the unwary is that a ‘700 Watt’ microwave, for example, will draw about twice that amount of power when supplied through an inverter!

A better alternative, if you really like microwave ovens, is to install a 12 V unit. The power consumed is about one and a half times that of the rating, but there are no inverter losses. In reality, if you are trying to keep power consumption low and battery capacity and solar panels down, then it’s better not to use a microwave oven at all.

Electrical Energy – Phantom Power t’s not only big devices that draw power. If you have TV, VCR, DVD player, entertainment unit or computer then all those devices will consume what’s known as ‘phantom power’ when in standby mode. It’s not much

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57 but can be a long term drain if not switched off at the power point.

Electrical Energy – Inverters nverters are clever little devices that convert 12 V DC (i.e. battery voltage) to 240 V AC (i.e. mains voltage) and are

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New LED TVs are the most power efficient.

LED interior, awning and vehicle marker lights are becoming the norm, but headlights are a big vehicle-battery drain item.

Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency available in a range of power ratings. Unfortunately, they are not particularly energy efficient and the cheaper ones generate what is known as a ‘modified sine wave,’ which is not suited to many delicate electronic devices, especially computers.

These require what is known as a ‘pure sine wave’ inverter.

Inverters are a whole subject in themselves but the bottom line is investing in quality 12 V appliances/devices and chargers is far more energy efficient than any inverter. If you do need one, then think best. In other words, think expensive rather than cheap.

And remember, inverters used for prolonged periods can play havoc with your vehicle’s house battery storage levels.

Electrical Energy – Cabling inally items that are not really devices but still can consume energy are the connecting cables. In theory this should not be a problem in new RVs. However, in older rigs or where undersized cable has been used (quite easy to do with automotive cable) or bad joints occur, then voltage drop (power loss) can occur. This may also cause other problems because items like fridge motors do not like operating at much less than their design voltage, neither do items like halogen light globes.

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Cable voltage drop is quite easy to check. Using a digital voltmeter (more accurate than analogue), the voltage should

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Cabling and connectors in good condition are vital for optimum power efficiency. be checked at the source and then at the operating appliance (make sure it’s running in the case of a fridge compressor).

If it’s any more than about 4% (.48V) then further checks should be made. Depending on your RV, this can be either quite easy or very difficult. Basically, the cable has to be traced out and all joints checked. The solution is quite simple: either joints have to be redone or if the original cable is not large enough then a parallel cable has to be connected.

LPG and Diesel iquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) has been and still is the energy choice for cooktops/hobs and ovens, three-ways fridges, barbecues,

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hot water heaters and in more recent times, air-blown heaters.

However, relative newcomers on the scene are diesel fired appliances – mostly water and space heaters (sometimes combined) but also cooktops/ hobs. Advantages are less reliance on LP gas, while some motorhomes are now built with only diesel-fired appliances, thus negating the requirement for the whole gas system, gas cylinder storage and annual gas check at registration (the latter depending on your location). To power these devices the diesel is simply drawn from the vehicle’s fuel tank and a safety system is fitted to ensure the appliance/s can’t drain the tank below a certain level. They also use very

Motorhome 101: Energy Efficiency

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Energy efficiency doesn't mean you can’t enjoy life’s little luxuries! little fuel in operation. the main disadvantage is the higher initial cost of these appliances and a slower warm up time for the cooktop/hob.

What to Choose? t's really your call, but in many motorhomes it's a case of mix and match to get the most efficient energy set up that suits your mode of travel.

For instance, I can see the benefit of an all-diesel powered system for cooking and water/ space heating in a smaller motorhome, but I’m not sure the cooking style would suit my impatient living style and therefore I'd need a gas system of some sort and accept the loss of storage space (seems a crazy cost/space compromise

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for a few extra minutes a day!

- Ed).

a costly battery and/or solar panel upgrade.

Electrically speaking, one of the easiest energy efficient upgrades to do is change the lighting system. It might be initially expensive but at the same time could help avoid

However we travel we all need to do it in a greener style and there are now plenty of ways we can achieve it in some way!

Integrated power control units replace banks of individual switches and provide a range of additional information.

60 magazine

iMotorhome

because getting there is half the fun...

iMotorhome Classifieds are for private sellers and dealers alike, with a great introductory offer until the end of August...

• Motorhomes & Campervans only • Unlimited words • Up to 12 photos per ad • Unlimited edits and updates • Latest ads featured in iMotorhome Magazine • Advertise until sold • Introductory offer extended to the end of August: $25 – that’s 50% off!

Visit www.imotorhome.com.au today

Classifieds: Snapshots

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CMCA: WA on Track

WA on Track Western Australia sets out to improve its RV friendly status...

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CMCA: WA on Track

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Alyssa Hayden and Bevin Martin discuss facilities at the DEC camp ground at Wright’s Bridge along the Nannup-Balingup scenic drive.

Ancient Empire Walk, Walpole – image Tourism WA

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y Western Australian Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism, Dr Kim Hames, plans to improve the State’s reputation as an RV friendly destination. His Parliamentary Secretary, Hon Alyssa Hayden MLC, set off for a trip through WA’s South West to experience RV travelling first

Swan Valley – image Tourism WA

hand. The trip was important to ensure the Government’s Caravan and Camping Action Plan, which has been developed to improve facilities across the State for caravanners, campers and motorhome travellers, is targeting the right areas.

its way to Albany, across to Walpole and then up through Manjimup to Harvey and home to the Swan Valley, was organised and led by CMCA WA State Representative, Bevin Martin.

“The whole experience was The 1465 kilometre journey, really useful and I learned a which started in York and wound lot,” said Ms Hayden. “I was

CMCA: WA on Track

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Torndirrup National Park, Albany – image Tourism WA pleasantly surprised by the number and quality of RV sites that Bevin took me to, although I must say that being woken up in Cranbrook at half past one in the morning by a goods train just metres from my motorhome was a bit of a shock.”

“It was also worthwhile listening to everyone’s point of view at the meetings that were organised, including those of caravan park owners and managers. It’s important to consider all stakeholder opinions and concerns when making decisions that affect a town and its businesses.”

Despite the positive impressions that Alyssa took away from the trip she said the State still has a lot of room for improvement; particularly in the provision of more 24-hour rest areas and dump points in strategic locations. Other areas to be

addressed include the marketing of many of the scenic places that are available for short rests and overnight stays; signage to identify where they can be found and construction of more pullover bays and overtaking lanes on some of the major roads to improve driver safety.

More rubbish bins to discourage littering are also on her ‘to do’ list.

“WA is a beautiful state and there are some extraordinary experiences to be had – like the amazing sunrise we witnessed at Cosy Corner near Albany with the mist-covered ocean bathed in an orange glow, and walking through the canopies of Tingle Trees at the Tree Top Walk, near Walpole,” she said. “We just need to get that message out to more Western Australians, and to the interstate and international markets.”

The Caravan and Camping Action Plan is currently being considered as part of the Western Australian Government’s 2013/14 budget process.

For more information about the CMCA, contact is via the below details.

Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia Limited PO Box 3327 Hamilton DC NSW 2303 Tel: (02) 4978 8788 Fax: (02) 4978 8799 E: enquiries@cmca.net.au W: www.cmca.net.au

CMCA: WA on Track

Bevin saves the day with power for Alyssa’s coffee machine!

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Next Issue

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SLIP SLIDE-ON AWAY...

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e crammed too much into this issue – what a surprise – so next issue we’ll bring you the travel story of Mr & Mrs iMotorhome’s Alice Springs to Ballina adventure in Horizon’s 4WD Waratah.

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Mid North Coast Caravan, Camping, 4WD, Fish & Fishing Show Wauchope Showground, Beechwood Rd, Wauchope. NSW. • Open daily 9:00-5:00 (closes Sunday 4:00) • Parking free • Adults $15 • Seniors $11 • Kids U16 free http://www.campingshow.com.au/cmsms/index.php Click for Google Maps

Malcolm will bring us a review of the beautifully crafted and super-stylish Mondo Musica slide-on from Italy, which is set to put an expensive cat amongst the pigeons in the luxury end of its market. Part RV – part artwork – it’s a breath of fresh air we hope can find enough well-heeled buyers for it to establish a niche Downunder.

Richard recently spent a day in Melbourne playing with Trailblazers RV’s 4WD Truck/

August 16-18

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Border RV & Camping Expo Wodonga Racecourse, Wodonga. VIC. • Open 09:30-5:00 daily (closes Sunday 4:00) • Free parking • Adults $10 • Seniors $8 • Kids U15 Free with adult

http://www.borderexpo.com.au/visitor.html

Click for Google Maps

slide-on camper combo and will bring us his views on this tough sucker. Able to leap – or at least drive over – tall things in a single bound, it might just be the perfect go anywhere-you-damn-well-like around Australia machine.

It all promises to make for a great issue, but until then please follow us on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news, comments and a bit of fun. Keep safe!

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Wide Bay & Fraser Coast Home Show & Caravan, Camping Expo Maryborough Showgrounds, Maryborough. QLD. • Open daily 9:00-5:00 (closes Sunday 4:00) • Parking free • Adults $10 • Seniors $8 • Kids free with adult

http://www.australianevents.com.au/index.php/ wide-bay-home-show-caravan Click for Google Maps

Know of a local or regional show coming up that attracts and promotes motorhomes, campervans and the great RV lifestyle in general?

Drop us a line at info@imotorhome.com.au and we’ll happily promote it in this calendar.

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