MOTORHOME / TOURERS HABITATION CHECKS

We are an AL-KO Approved Service centre.

Here at Armitages we have skilled engineers to carry out a comprehensive habitation and chassis service check giving you the peace of mind to keep you motoring throughout the whole year.

Electrical system:

· All internal and external lights are assessed to see if there are any faults.

· Sockets are tested using a loop check, which sends a signal down to verify that it is wired correctly.

· Included in these checks are fridge operation, the consumer unit, the TV socket, the battery and anything that requires electricity.

· A residual current device (RCD) check involves making sure the RCD trips within a set time.

· In addition, the miniature circuit breakers are checked to ensure that they are correct for the appliances in the vehicle.

Gas system:

· A manometer is used to check for leaks in the gas supply system.

· All gas appliances – such as the oven, the fridge, the heating system and the water heater – are turned on, to check they are working properly.

· All vents are checked to ensure they are clear. Then all appliances are turned off at the gas isolator taps.

· The flame-failure device should cut in, meaning the test has been passed.

· A second test is the CO room test, where all gas appliances are turned on and a flue gas analyser runs for a minimum of 15 minutes with all doors and windows closed.

Water system:

· All taps are individually checked for leaks, and the motorhome’s waste-water outlet is observed for blockages.

· The toilet is inspected to ensure that the valve seal is well lubricated, and the battery-operated flush is working.

· If an Alde wet heating system is installed, the ethylene glycol antifreeze and water must be a 50/50 mix – this is checked using a portable refractometer.

· The antifreeze mix in the header tank should be 10mm above ‘Minimum’, not at maximum.

· This should be replaced every 2 or 5 years depending on the quality of Glycol. If you have a good quality Glycol (Alde G13) then it will last for 5 years without replacement, if you are not sure then the recommendation is every 2 years, to give protection (lubrication and prevents rustproofing.)

Bodywork:

· All doors, windows and blinds are assessed for smooth operation.

· General observations are made of the whole bodywork, including a visual inspection of the roof.

· A damp check is carried out around the inside of the motorhome – a reading of 0-15% means there no concerns, but 15-20% requires further investigation and a recheck within three months.

· If the reading is above 20%, immediate attention is required because these highlight an area of water ingress.

· The motorhome service technician should give you a damp report on completion of the service.

Ventilation:

· All the motorhome’s rooflights are opened and closed to ensure that they operate properly.

· In addition, all fixed vents are checked for possible obstructions.

Fire and safety:

· The smoke alarm and CO detector are tested, and checked to see they are not past their replacement date.

· If you carry a fire extinguisher, the expiry date is checked. If you carry a fire blanket, the

housing unit is inspected to ensure that it is secure.

What’s not included:

· The following checks are not included in a basic service, so would require additional payment:

· In-depth servicing for individual appliances, such as the fridge;

· A solar panel service;

· An air-conditioning service.

We have been manufacturing and servicing trailers for over 30 years. We have qualified technicians who can competently complete a chassis service on all types of trailers and touring caravans.

CARAVANS & TRAILER SERVICING ON ALL SINGLE / TWIN / TRI-AXLE

Running gear:

· Check and inspect the coupling, damper, wear, damage, breakaway cable, bellow & grease. Ensure the handbrake works, braking on all wheels of the trailer/caravan

· Check all brake cables, brake rods, compensator are pulling evenly. Adjust and grease where required.

· Full inspection of the drums, brake shoes, expanders, adjusters, bearings (de-grease & re-grease when not sealed for life)

· Check all wheels including the spare, tyre expiry dates, tread depth, tyre pressures, damage to side walls & flat spots etc.

· Checks wheel bolts / studs and nuts. Re-Torque (please note this will have to be done again 25-50 miles later)

Chassis and bodywork:

· Inspect the condition of the chassis, including the drawbar, floor and any corner steadies

· Check the axle for wear and alignment.

· Suspension – visually check the rubbers or bushes and leaf springs where applicable.

Electrical:

· Check all lights, markers, wiring loom, plugs and junction boxes.

· Check that the motor mover engages, disengages and inspect rollers where required.

· Check ATC where required.

Other:

· Water tanks underneath the caravan mounted correctly and pipes are not damaged.

Contact Us

Contact us today to find out how we can help you.