Bristol Caravans and Motorhomes

Search

Call us

01454-612-893

Mon - Fri

08:30AM - 05:00PM

4.7 | 191 reviews

Menu
CONTACT US

Oakleigh Wood

Home > Articles by: Oakleigh Wood
12Feb
Motorhome Damp Repair

Motorhome Damp Repair Video, full repair process

CategoriesMotorhome Damp Repairs Motorhome Maintenance Motorhome Repairs

The video highlights the window rubber seal failure, how the water ingress tracked into the vehicle and the full motorhome damp repair. What caused the water ingress The water ingress was caused by window seal failure, the rubber seal had hardened over time (age related), as the seal hardened it lost its ability to be squishy, which means the water flowed past the rubber to reach the internal wooden structure of the coach built body. How you can identify damp in your motorhome? The best way to find water ingress or damp in your motorhome or caravan is a damp […]

My Ultimate Guide to Motorhome Self-Leveling Systems – Functionality Q&A FAQ

CategoriesCampervan Upgrades Motorhome Levelling Systems Motorhome Upgrades

When I’m touring, comfort and stability are essential for an enjoyable motorhome or campervan experience. Uneven terrain can lead to discomfort, appliances can stop working, and even structural strain on your vehicle. This is where self-leveling systems come into play. Brands like E&P, AL-KO, MA-VE, and Amplo offer cutting-edge solutions designed to make motorhome leveling effortless and efficient. My name is Oakleigh, and in this Q&A FAQ review, we’ll explore some of the regular questions I’m asked regarding self-levelling systems and real life answers.If you are thinking about a levelling system, and like our approach, Click Here to drop us […]

04Nov
Levelling-System-MA-VE-MAN

Best motorhome self-levelling system for UK campsites?

CategoriesMotorhome Levelling Systems Motorhome Upgrades

When researching the best motorhome self-levelling system, there are a number of factors to consider and rank in order of preference. Here are our top 5 options to consider: Price: How much to install a motorhome levelling system? At the time of writing you can pay from £5,695 up to £12,000 for a hydraulic levelling system, depending on system and the Make/Model of motorhome. Imagine the difference between and Fiat Ducato based campervan and a Mega top of the range Morello motorhome. To obtain a specific price book in for a free assessment. That said here are two motorhome levelling […]

08Oct
12v Off Grid Air Con

12v Air Con for Motorhomes

CategoriesGeneral

The Ultimate Air Conditioning Solution for Caravans, Motohomes & Campervans: Indel B Plein-Aircon 12v. As more people across the UK embrace the freedom of campervan travel, comfort on the road has become a top priority – especially for the mature traveller seeking convenience without compromising on quality. If you’re a campervan owner looking to keep cool while touring the countryside or enjoying a seaside getaway, the Indel B Plein-Aircon 12v roof-mounted air conditioning unit is the perfect upgrade to your vehicle. 12v Aircon for Caravans, Motorhomes & Campervans up to Six Metres The Indel B Plein-Aircon is a sleek, 12v […]

04Nov
Motorhome levelling system

Motorhome Levelling Systems – Hydraulic vs. 12v: Which Is Best?

CategoriesMotorhome Levelling Systems Motorhome Upgrades

When choosing a motorhome levelling system, one of the key decisions is between hydraulic and 12v. Both are for the purpose of lifting and levelling vehicles, comparative in their function, but come with differing benefits and considerations. Motorhome Levelling Systems – Hydraulic: Motorhome levelling systems hydraulic vs 12v which is best? Hydraulic? Advantages: Hydraulic systems are known for their power and speed, capable of lifting heavier motorhomes rapidly while also offering enhanced stability, particularly on uneven surfaces.Drawbacks: These systems are usually heavier and more expensive. Installation is more complex, often taking longer. Hydraulic systems require maintenance in the form of […]

30Sep
caravan levelling system required!

Why Buy a Caravan Levelling System?

CategoriesCaravan Levelling Caravan Upgrades

A caravan levelling system is a great upgrade and can enhance your travel experience. When it comes to enjoying the perfect caravan holiday, it’s the little details that make a big difference. Whether you’re a seasoned caravanner or you are new to the lifestyle, you can add levelling at any time of ownership. Here’s why a levelling system should be on your must-have list. Fast and Easy Set-Up: Unlock More Places to Stay Imagine arriving at a stunning new campsite, only to find that the ground is uneven. Without a levelling system, you might spend precious time trying to get […]

30Aug
Smart Alternator Fiat Ducato

Can 12v Accessories damage Motorhomes with a Smart Alternator?

CategoriesCampervan Maintenance Campervan Repairs Campervan Upgrades Motorhome Maintenance Motorhome Repairs Motorhome Upgrades

Motorhome Issue: Smart Alternator This article is positioned as an overview of “smart alternators, motorhomes and accessories”, describing basic principles.It is meant for discussion, if you have any comments or suggestions please contact the author direct at:oakleigh@bristolcaravans.com Issue Can incorrect accessory fitting damage the engine battery or engine battery charging? Background EU legislation was introduced to help reduce vehicle emissions. “Smart alternators” are part of the EU emissions initiative.Smart alternators were introduced to the UK car market around 2015, some motorhome brands were slower to implement. We recommend that you check. Do not assume your motorhome or campervan has a […]

Lawrence Emm

CategoriesReviews

Five star service at its best! I don’t often leave feedback but the help, support, guidance and the quality of work undertaken by Bristol Caravan and Motorhomes on our new-to-us motorhome has been outstanding these last few weeks. We are in season 2 of our new adventure and had been disappointed elsewhere with the quality of service provided to us. Tracey, Nick and Oakleigh in particular have been patient and attentive to our concerns and needs. They resolved our concerns and problems – a huge relief. I cannot thank and praise each of them enough. Thank you all for a […]

Ian Jones

CategoriesReviews

Great!! We’ve just had a self levelling system fitted on our new motorhome and the service and support we received was superb.Friendly professional staff who explained everything and were happy to help at every stage.Based on our experience we would definitely recommend.

James A-D

CategoriesReviews

Excellent service provided by Bristol Caravans (BC): following an initial inspection a quotation was provided to replace two defective hydraulic self-levelling rams/pistons. The work was subsequently undertaken ahead of schedule and almost exactly to the quote. A special ‘thank you’ to Tracy at BC who provided a warm and friendly welcome and ultimately kept me informed of progress. She made dealing with BC easy and is a credit to their team. Thank you!

21Feb
Cambelt replacement at Bristol Caravans

Top 5 tips for Motorhome or Campervan Cambelt Replacement

CategoriesCampervan Cambelt Replacement Motorhome Cambelt Replacement

Thank you for finding this article, my aim is to build your motorhome & campervan knowledge, so you can make an informed decision about the maintenance of your vehicle. Before we jump in, and just for transparency, “disclosure”, I own and operate a workshop. Customers often ask questions about Cambelts, I figure an article covering frequent questions will help to inform you, so further questions are built on a common understanding. There are different types of repairers, so hopefully, this will help you decide if we are the right fit for you. Motorhomes and Campervans come in all shapes and […]

08Apr
Rust Prevention

Rust Prevention for your motorhome, caravan or campervan

CategoriesCampervan Maintenance Caravan Maintenance Motorhome Maintenance

Protecting Your Investment: Motorhome Rust Prevention Motorhomes, caravans, and campervans represent significant investments. When a water leak or scratch catches your attention, it’s easy to address. But what about the areas hidden from view? The Hidden Vulnerability The underside of your vehicle is often overlooked yet plays a crucial role in maintaining its value and structural integrity. Neglecting it can lead to costly repairs, increased MOT expenses, and heightened risk of water ingress from road spray. Invisible Threats Everyday wear and tear, road debris, inclement weather, and winter road treatments can all take a toll on the underside of your […]

12Feb
Motorhome solar panel

What’s the Best Solar Panel Kit?

CategoriesCaravan Upgrades Motorhome Upgrades

What’s the best solar panel kit for beginners, including installation, be it caravan, motorhome or campervan? Before starting on any new accessory or upgrade, reflect and ask youself a few questions: Here are a few reasons leisure vehicle owners consider solar panels: Depending on your power consumption, it is possible to design and build a 12v system so that you can run without 230v EHU. The solar panel then becomes a key part of your 12v system, and is one way to re-charge your leisure batteries. Please also read our articles on Lithium Batteries. It this article we hope to […]

12Aug
EICR safety check

230v PIR EICR Top Tips

CategoriesCampervan Service Caravan Service Motorhome Service

The Periodic Inspection Report (PIR) is a specific set of tests completed on the 230v (mains electric) system within your leisure vehicle (caravan, motorhome, campervan), by a trained / competent person. Once completed a Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is issued, in this article we refer to this service as the PIR EICR 230v safety check. The PIR EICR 230v safety check is standard, industry wide, and includes a series of tests / checks of the 230v mains electrical wiring, switches and appliances within your caravan, motorhome or campervan. The repeat time period for a caravan, motorhome or campervan is […]

07Feb
Lithium battery

Lithium Battery Top Tips

CategoriesLithium Batteries Motorhome Upgrades

Leisure Batteries come in many different shapes, sizes and types, no wonder it’s difficult choosing the right one. Leisure Batteries discharge (run flat) as you use your on-board 12v devices/appliances/accessories (example: inside LED lights), but don’t forget, appliances like your fridge, heater, cooker need 12v to run the PCB control panel and ignite the LPG. If you are in the South West, we are happy to help solve your battery issues, whatever your battery needs. Like many things in life, it helps if you have knowledge and a process to follow. In this article we will layout our thinking around […]

27Jun

What Is ALDE Heating System Fluid?

CategoriesCampervan Maintenance Caravan Maintenance Motorhome Maintenance

ALDE use a specific type of glycol fluid in the heating system, which is similar to antifreeze. As the glycol fluid ages it becomes less effective. If not changed at the correct interval, your system could be at risk of permanent damage. The damage is usually to internal components, when the fluid becomes acidic, the acid corrodes aluminium components. At the time of writing a relacement Alde system is in the region of £3,500 plus fitting, so definately cheaper to maintain the system rather than replace it. When first built, manufacturers fit Pink or Blue fluid. The blue glycol must […]

How much electric does the ALDE System use?

CategoriesCaravan Upgrades Motorhome Upgrades

Alde, how much mains power? The following article is based on Alde’s June 2022 newsletter. Image © Alde. With the UK electric costs rising, Caravan, Motorhome and Campervan owners are counting their kWh £’s. In short, the price question can only be answered accurately after the you have seen your metered bill. This is because the you determine when you put the heating and hot water on, whether you shower, wash dishes, what temperature you set the thermostat, etc.. But here is some guidance. Mains Electric / 230v The Alde system is very efficient when running on 230v (mains electric), equivalent […]

What is ALDE Heating?

CategoriesCampervan Maintenance Caravan Maintenance Motorhome Maintenance

So what is ALDE Heating? ALDE is a Swedish heating company, and design systems to heat the hot water system and the interior of your Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan using radiators or underfloor heating. It works in a similar way to your central heating at home. A heats transfer liquid is heated, and pumped through pipes to convectors (radiators), the fluid then back to the boiler. Within the boiler, there is a hot water tank, which produces the hot water for your shower and taps. The single boiler within the ALDE system works on 230v and LPG gas, and heats […]

24Feb
Wild caravan camping in Scotland - going off-grid

Off Grid – Lithium Battery, Solar, 230v & B2B Chargers

CategoriesLithium Batteries Motorhome Upgrades

Are you planning to take your Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan off-grid?Fancy going off-grid, but a little nervous?Need your leisure battery to last the whole trip?Planning to be a digital nomad, and need your laptop to work whilst you are away? Unlike many retailers, we don’t just sell products and boxes. We understand Off-Grid systems, your challenges as an owner, and what you might need to achieve your dreams. Be it one part of an off-grid system, or a complete review or new install we can help you every step of the way. Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan owners often look at […]

  • Main Menu