The offroad caravans can be used to navigate through any type of terrain. Because of this, the different features are built to withstand all kinds of terrain.
This article will discuss the five essential features of an offroad caravan along with their roles and importance.
1). THE CARAVAN FRAME
Your caravan’s frame determines its shape and ability to withstand changing driving conditions like climate changes.
There are many types of materials that can be used to make caravan frames. Because of their susceptibility to metal fatigue and flexibility, some caravan frames are made from tinder or wooden.
Aluminium can also be used to make caravan frames, which are not as susceptible to rot and water damage like timber.
2). THE CHASSIS
The chassis is the main building block of any caravan. The chassis of an offroad caravan must be strong enough to withstand all the bumps and obstacles an offroad caravan may encounter.
Steel has been the main component of the chassis for a long time. However, over the years, there have been many substitutes such as aluminum. Because steel is heavy, it can be a problem for caravans.
You can also create some chassis from a mixture of steel and aluminum by using steel main rails and cross-members.
The chassis is the main structure of your caravan. For off-road caravans, however, it must be strong, sturdy, and durable.
3). THE SUSPENSION
You will have a smoother ride because the suspension maintains the right distance between your caravan and the ground.
It also helps to maintain the integrity of the caravan’s structural components by equalizing the load and reducing stress. This is why many manufacturers use a load sharing suspension or trailing arm suspension.
There are also independent suspension systems that absorb shocks using coil springs to ensure smooth travels.
However, it is important to ensure that your suspension system has been specifically designed for offroad usage. This can sometimes be confusing with rough-road use.
4). THE CARAVAN UNDERBELLY
The caravan’s underbelly is where water storage tanks are located.
It is therefore important to ensure that your caravan’s underbelly is secure and protected in order to prevent any damage to storage tanks or their fragile PVC structure.
You must also ensure that other components are protected and secure in the underbelly, such as the chassis and suspension system, axles, electrical wirings and other components.
It is therefore important to ensure that your caravan’s underbelly material is durable and strong. For added protection, the underbelly is usually covered with galvanized sheets metal.
It is also a good idea to position your PVC plumbing higher than the ground, so it doesn’t get any scrapes or damage.
You should make sure that the underbelly is not open to water. This could be an issue if you travel on roads with different terrain and conditions.
5). THE COUPLING
There are many types of caravan couplings that can be used to connect your caravan to the vehicle.
It is important to have a coupling that rotates in all directions, or 360 degrees, for offroad caravans. These couplings are the tow ball coupling and poly block coupling.
It is important that the offroad couplings match both the maximum weight and brakes of the caravan. They also need to be easy to disengage in the event you have to fix it at an awkward angle.
FINAL THOUGHTS
All of the components in an offroad caravan play a particular role. It is important to remember that these basic features are only a part of a caravan. However, for offroad caravans to work properly, they need specific features.
Their coupling must be capable of rotating at a 360-degree angle. Additionally, their suspension system must specifically be made for offroad use for safer and smoother travels.
There is no better way for you to travel around WA and beyond than in your own caravan. Apache Caravans is the place to go for new and used off-road caravans.
Our experience in the caravan industry, includes sales, custom vehicle building, and repair.
Call our friendly customer service team at 1300 272 243 or contact us through our website with all your caravanning needs.
