Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing

Damp Caravans

2012-02-05T11:19:00.003Z

I have put this post together to show just what a damp caravan looks like and more importantly how much work is involved in repairing one. The workshop belongs to my friends as S & C Caravans who carry out the damp and bodywork for my customers.

The start of the process, the windows are out and the cupboards are being removed.

This is the rear of the caravan and we are starting to see the extent of the damp and the damage. Its not possible to predict the full extent of the damp until you start removing wall boards. You can't tell from the photograph but the wall was actually wet.

This is the rear panel with all of the insulation and timber removed. You can see the damp spores on the back panel. At this point the smell is very unpleasant but you can't smell it until you have broken through the wall boards. We often hear customers say that my van isn't damp because I can't smell anything - you wont until you expose you it.

This is the front panel and when the awning rail and sealant is removed you can see the fractures in the panel. There is no doubt that damp gets in this way. This will be plastic welded before the van is resealed and made water tight once again.

This is the back corner that is in the earlier pictures. We have started to replace the wall boards and the furniture is starting to go back in. It took a long time to strip out and clean but the reconstruction went smoothly although the extent of the damage was far worse than expected.

You can now see the rear of the caravan which is waiting for the window to be refitted.

At this point the back end is almost complete and attention has turned to the front of the van. As you can see the water heater has been removed along with all of the furniture. The damp is significant but it hasn't spread as much as it had in the rear of the van. There is still a significant amount of work to repair, reseal and make good.

So here we go with a selection of pictures which show the finished job. Once again another great job by S&C Caravans and Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing. If you look at the photos below you will see that the front windows are back in, new seals have been fitted, the awning rails have been refitted and the lights have been put back in place. The final job was putting back all of the soft furnishings and cleaning up.

Ex Discover Leisure Customers

2012-01-25T18:30:00.002Z

If you are a customer of the now defunct Discover Leisure and you need your caravan or motorhome servicing to maintain your warranty then we can help. Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing are an AWS approved mobile workshop and we can service your nearly new ex Discover Leisure vehicle.

Spring time for your caravan or motorhome

2012-01-23T11:57:00.000Z

It's that time of year when you should be thinking about getting your caravan or motorhome ready for the new season. Here are a few hints and tips.

First, get your annual service booked now. Its going to get busy for engineers and workshops and if you leave it too late then you will struggle to get it booked in.

Inspect the vehicle for any damaged caused over winter. Look for cracked seals, roof damage and probably most important take a look at your tyres.

Give your vehicle a good wash down and follow with a wax. I have started using the dry wash fluids which I find excellent on my motorhome.

Flush through your water system and then disinfect it with a proper caravan system disinfectant. Check your taps and water heater.

Clean out the toilet and put in some fluid.

Get the van on charge and make sure that the battery is holding that charge.

Run the fridge on 230v and gas and make sure it works on both. A lot of people say - we never use gas so why bother. The answer is simple, one day your 230v element will fail while your on holiday and being able to run the fridge on gas means your holiday is saved. If you don't run it on gas regularly when you do come to use it you will find that it doesn't fire up.

Storage sites in Derbyshire

2012-01-15T15:55:00.001Z

I often get asked about storage sites in Derbyshire. I can recommend a really good CaSSOA Gold site. Its Wayside Farm near Matlock, see the CaSSOA wayside farm information page. Its important to know that your vehicle is going to be safe and this site has everything that you would expect when using a storage site.

Bailey AluTech servicing.

2012-01-08T19:49:00.000Z

There seems to be a lot of confusion over servicing the new Bailey AluTech caravans. This hasn't been helped my some misinformation coming from some dealers. AluTech caravans can be serviced by any AWS approved workshop in years 1 and 2 but the year 3 service needs to go to a Bailey approved workshop. After this 3rd year service then AWS workshops can carry on with servicing.

New web site

2012-01-07T19:24:00.000Z

I have updated my web site today to reflect the fact that I am now an AWS approved mobile workshop. This means that I can service your new caravan or motorhome without affecting your warranty.

The weather

2012-01-05T18:19:00.000Z

So 60mph gales in Derbyshire today. Not a good place for working outside so some jobs being rescheduled to hopefully a better day.

2012 servicing

2011-12-27T09:58:00.000Z

I hope that you all had a good Christmas, everyone is now thinking about the New Year. So while your thinking about booking holidays and losing weight spare some thought for your motorhome or caravan. Remember you have a legal obligation to make sure your leisure vehicle is safe. So why not book in your 2012 service now so that you aren't disappointed when you eventually think about it. Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing will be offering Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS) servicing during 2012 which means we can service new vehicles without affecting your warranty.

Study, study and more study.

2011-12-04T19:41:00.001Z

Its been a very busy few weeks as I go through the process to become an Approved Workshop. My van inspection went very well last week and I just have the final practical examination (C&G) to do. Wish me well.

Is your caravan or motorhome three years old or older?

2011-11-07T15:42:00.001Z

The National Caravan Council, British Standards and the MCEA all recommend that any Leisure Vehicle should have a Periodic Inspection (PIR) or Electrical Installation Condition Report (ECIR) after three years and then at appropriate intervals (probably every three years). You can see the details within BS 7671:2008 A1:2011 (the 17th edition of the IEE Wiring Regulations). The Caravan training organisation CITO also have a document covering this important safety area which is issued to engineers.

Any engineer wanting to offer this service has to be trained and must be able to prove competence in this area. Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing is pleased to announce that they are now offering EICR testing and reporting.

Trusted Trader

2011-11-01T08:33:00.001Z

Great news, Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing is now a member of Derbyshire County Councils Trusted Trader scheme.

Charger in and around Matlock

2011-10-22T18:09:00.000+01:00

In the last 24 hours I have replaced 4 battery chargers in caravans and motorhomes. They have all been within a few miles of Matlock and it seems very unusual.

Matlock had a major power outage last week and I don't know if is related.

Derbyshire Today

2011-09-29T15:25:00.002+01:00

So here we are at the end of September. The temperature out there is 28'c and the sky is blue. So if your looking for somewhere to go this weekend then Derbyshire could be just the place. Get the van ready, call the many camp sites and get on over here - you will not be disappointed.

September 2011

2011-09-18T08:25:00.001+01:00

I just wanted to post a few observations from a recent trip to France.

Firstly when getting on and off a ferry you need to take it slowly and carefully. When the tide is out the ferry can be quite low and the ramps steep. I observed a number of caravans grounding and the owners didn't even seem aware - until they get home and spot the damage or missing weight spreading foot.

230v cables, you will probably need an adapter to allow you to plug in to the older power bollards that have the continental type sockets. All new installations across the EU have the modern blue connectors.

Water is scarce in southern Europe don't waste it.

Beam converters are needed on cars and motorhomes to stay legal.

Watch the speed limits, it might not always be obvious and often caravans and motorhomes have lower limits. If you get caught you might have to find the money there and then. If you get caught by a camera just because you are not in the UK doesn't mean that the fine will not turn up at your home.

Where do you work.

2011-08-20T18:16:00.000+01:00

Image by Terry Waller via FlickrI am often asked how big the area is that I cover. I am happy to travel anywhere in Derbyshire and large areas of Nottinghamshire. This week has seen me in Alfreton, Matlock, Darley Bridge, Chesterfield, Buxton, Baslow, Tansley, Sheffield and Mansfield amongst other places.

The MCEA web site seems to indicate that I only cover the Peak District but this is not the case.

If you want your motorhome or caravan servicing then please give me a call or drop me an e-mail. Please remember that when I am servicing its not always possible to answer the phone. Please try later.

I also do repairs but for bodywork you really need a workshop and I am happy to recommend engineers that can help.

We specialise in call outs to get you going whilst on holiday. If your on a site and having problems then we can help.

So remember if you have a caravan or motorhome then you need to remember how to contact Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing.

Call 07918 121085
or
e-mail info@chatsworth-service.co.uk

Look out for this stolen caravan

2011-08-14T17:17:00.000+01:00

Stolen - any information please contatc the Police or Crimestoppers.

2007 Swift Charisma 590 twin axle.

Chassis number is SGDDT4ASW70325899

It is likely to have some panel damage to the near side as it collided with the gate on the way out so they may be looking to get it repaired.

distinguishing features:

The caravan has a 2 WD powertouch fitted

an added external power socket on the near side near the wheel arch.

Awning has LED's fitted and a reflective foil has been fitted to it.

Yet another caravan fire

2011-08-14T17:11:00.000+01:00

I think the title gives you a clue?

http://www.theargus.co.uk/news/9194900.Investigation_continues_into_fatal_caravan_blaze_in_Hastings/

I guess this is yet another reminder of how important a service is for your van.

Caravan fire

2011-08-09T10:07:00.001+01:00

You really can't take a risk with safety in caravans. Take a look at this newspaper story to see just how much damage can be caused. Shropshire Star.

If your unsure what to do then talk to your caravan or motorhome engineer. We can advise on gas checks, provide smoke alarms, fire extinguishers and service your van. from my own website you can purchase smoke alarms etc. or just ask me next time you see my van.

Electrical problems

2011-08-04T12:37:00.000+01:00

Image via WikipediaI seem to be having a spate of electrical problems right now. I don't know why but chargers seem to be failing on a regular basis, its not a single brand or caravan company which is odd.

Its the Bakewell show this week and travel around North Derbyshire has been significantly affected. It has been excellent weather and this brought out the tourists in big numbers.

How the mighty fall

2011-07-17T20:53:00.000+01:00

This might not have anything to do with caravans or motorhomes but having just watched the Head of the Metropolitan Police resign because of the News International bribery and phone hacking investigation it makes me realise that the truth will eventually come out. The establishments seems to have covered things up for years but people power, investigations by other newspapers and some politicians standing up to be counted the truth is eventually coming out.

What a nice day

2011-07-10T20:56:00.001+01:00

It was very hot working in this field not far from Alfreton. It certainly makes working outside a pleasure.

Sent from my HTC

I can smell gas

2011-06-12T08:27:00.002+01:00

There are days when you come across things that make you wince. Look carefully and you will see a high pressure hose and a low pressure hose joined together. You will also see two regulators.... When I opened the gas locker the smell of gas hit you straight away, another good reason to have your van serviced.

Over the border in Nottinghamshire

2011-06-01T21:57:00.000+01:00

If your looking for an engineer in Mansfield then look no further than my colleague - Alex. See http://alexsmithcaravanservices.co.uk/index.html

How to find Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing.

2011-05-17T20:51:00.000+01:00

Thanks for the feedback on my previous article, you can find me at www.chatsworth-service.co.uk

Any questions please drop me an e-mail.

How to find a caravan or motorhome engineer.

2011-05-17T20:38:00.000+01:00

Image via WikipediaI have just returned from one of my favourite campsites - Chatsworth Caravan Club site. Its not just the site but the wardens that make this my favourite.

I was there on an electrical fault which was soon sorted out so that the customer could carry on with their holiday. Whilst I was there I was asked if I would travel to Leeds. I gave them the details of a colleague (CMS) who covers this area. This got me thinking why people struggle to find a mobile engineer in their area. Its worth looking at the MCEA web site and there you will find a selection of engineers from whom to pick.

Here is a good idea if you want to camp in Derbyshire.

2011-05-16T19:24:00.000+01:00

Don't forget to pick up the new guide -

http://www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/news/business/camping_guide_boosts_tourism_1_3378898

Gas problems.

2011-05-05T08:33:00.000+01:00

Image by FastOlly via FlickrI often get call outs for people who say my fridge/heater has stopped working on gas. I always ask the customer if they can manage on gas and more often than not they say its not working on gas either. It usually turns out that they have never used the appliance on gas and that's usually the cause of it not working.

Please when you go away run everything on gas even if its only for 10 minutes. It just helps to keep the burners clean and it will identify any problems before you need to use the appliance in anger.

What a place to work.

2011-05-01T08:58:00.002+01:00

Saturday 30th April 2011 and here I am working on a carvan in some of the best countryside that anyone could want to see. How lucky am I?

Sent from my HTC

Why have a service?

2011-04-23T20:13:00.001+01:00

I don't think that I need to say anything except get your van serviced - http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/local/blown_to_bits_and_camper_van_owners_survives_1_3314774

Easter 2010

2011-04-23T08:47:00.001+01:00

Image by Dave Pearson via FlickrThis is the traditional start of the caravanning year for many people. Having said that there is definitely a move to people using their vans in winter, this is probably due to better insulation and heating systems making both caravans and motorhomes very warm and cosy even in extreme cold conditions.

Its been a great start to the season with temperatures around 23c in sunny Derbyshire. It certainly brought the tourists out yesterday. The queue of traffic in to Matlock and Matlock Bath yesterday stretched for many miles.

Its been so busy with call outs that the local engineers can't cope. So if you need help and we can't get to you this weekend then I'm very sorry.

Chesterfield

2011-04-16T07:56:00.000+01:00

Image via WikipediaWorking in Derbyshire I find myself travelling through Chesterfield on a regular basis. I don't know what the councils have been doing but they seem to have decided to dig up and barricade the town centre this week. Two major roads have been dug up at the same time - why?

In a time of scarce resources new Police pull in area have sprung up in towns and villages around Derbyshire. I have yet to see a Police vehicle using one. How much money did these cost??

Spring time and caravans

2011-04-10T08:13:00.000+01:00

Image via WikipediaI say this every year but please check your caravan well in advance of going on your holidays. I have been taking call outs on a regular basis from people who have the van loaded and something fails to work. As caravan engineers we are busy servicing peoples caravans at this time of year so we can't always get to you very quickly.

I had an interesting call out to a failed motor mover. It had been fitted by a very big and well known dealer and the installation was shocking. Short battery leads, no fuses, crimps not crimped properly etc. etc.. Very disappointing but at least I get some business putting this poor installation right!

The other main problem at this time of year is obtaining stock. We can't carry everything and sometimes stock takes longer to arrive thanwe would like as things go out of stock at our suppliers due to demand. Your holiday could be ruined because we can't get spares? Please check your van a month before you go away.

Leisure batteries

2011-03-22T07:05:00.000Z

Image via WikipediaI am unsure why but I have fitted four leisure batteries in two weeks. This is unusual and I am trying to work out why. I wonder if its due to the extreme cold weather over winter?

Does anyone have any thoughts?

New Van

2011-03-13T08:34:00.001Z

Well despite holding off as long as possible I have had to buy a new van. I am now the proud owner of a Renault Trafic and the job of fitting it out has now started.

NEC Show

2011-02-27T20:22:00.000Z

Just back from the NEC in Birmingham. What a busy week we have had on the MCEA stand, we have been very busy with both new and regular customers. Its been very good to see so many engineers working together for the benefit of everyone in the organisation. See you next time.

February, the weather and the NEC

2011-02-21T20:52:00.000Z

Image via WikipediaI think that we all thought that the weather was heading for spring conditions, well this weekend has really proved how wrong we were. Saturday morning the ground was white over with snow, it then became very wet and cold. I was over with some caravan club wardens servicing their caravan. I got to know them quite well over at Chatsworth CC site and I visited their home to service their caravan before they head off for the summer season. It was great to see them again and I am want to wish them well at their next site.

Tomorrow sees the start of the Boat and Caravan Show at the Birmingham NEC. The MCEA will have its own stand once again in hall 5. Please come along and say hello.

Breaking down.

2011-02-12T07:45:00.000Z

Being based in Derbyshire there are many camp sites around me. I provide a breakdown service and often find myself called out to the local sites to help a customer in distress.

Yesterday I had an electrical problem and a water pump failure. That's two call outs and I suppose that's typical for a Friday at this time of year. Its probably the first weekend out for many campers and the winter problems are just becomingobvious.

It amazes just how many people go away without any money or a cheque book. You don't know what is going to happen when your away so it makes sense to take some emergency funding with you just in case something goes wrong.

Becoming a caravan engineer

2011-02-08T18:00:00.001Z

I have lost count of how many people have called or e-mailed me about this subject. Lets not make any mistakes its expensive, you need some kind of foundation course such as the one provided by the MCEA. There is then AcOPS Gas certification and numerous manufacturers courses to go on. Then you have to turn your attention to tools which are very expensive added to that are specialised test equipment. Now add public liability insurance and hundreds (if not thousands) of pounds worth of stock and you can start trading.

Its a good job but it is much more expensive to start up than many people think.

Rain and wind

2011-02-05T16:23:00.000Z

The rain and wind has been so bad today. The caravan I was working on was moving in the wind, I had it jacked up and could see the wind battering it. I was really glad to get it back on its wheels. The job went well but I got home very wet and chilly - glad to be back!

Fridges

2011-01-30T10:34:00.000Z

Image via WikipediaCaravan and motorhome fridges are not the same as domestic fridges but people expect them to be. They are not designed to be left running 365 days a year. They are designed for a leisure vehicle that is used for holidays and breaks. I get customers running them even when the vehicle is in the drive - please don't you are asking for your fridge to prematurely fail and they are very expensive to replace.

Fridges also need servicing and this isn't a five minute job. Usually it means removing the fridge to get to the burners and flue. Check your handbook as many fridges need an annual service which incidentally isn't normally part of a caravan or motorhome service. The reason for this is the time it takes to do the job. If you do want a fridge service it will probably save you some money if you have it done at the same time as your annual service but you need to book it in advance so that the engineer is aware.

Caravan & Motorhome Show - Manchester 2011

2011-01-20T17:06:00.000Z

Image by Living Off Grid via FlickrThe 20th to the 23rd January 2011 is the Caravan and Motorhome Show in Manchester. Come and see the MCEA stand in Hall 2. This isn't the full MCEA but a group of local MCEA engineers working together to man a stand. We are all self employed independent engineers who work as part of the association known as the MCEA. We can service your caravan or motorhome, fit accessories such as motormovers, satellite dishes, solar panels or we can deal with problems when your away from home such as gas, electrical or water problems. Please come and see us and let us know that you have read my blog.

The last few days

2011-01-18T21:03:00.000Z

Image by Getty Images via @daylifeThe world is full of nice people, you really shouldn't take in all the rubbish in the newspapers. Saturday had me carrying out a habitation service on a motorhome and the customer made me a bacon sandwich and kept me topped up with tea. Not only do I get to work in a very beautiful place (Derbyshire) but I meet good people. Another one of my customers had been milking cows in -20c during the cold weather - did he complain, no he didn't.

Do I need to worry about gas?

2011-01-14T18:19:00.002Z

The answer is very easy - YES. Take a look at what happens when things go wrong. rackheath_cafe_explosion

Camping & Caravan Club

2011-01-13T16:59:00.000Z

The Camping & Caravan Club have announced the purchase of a big new site close to Alton Towers in Staffordshire. New site

Motorhome catches fire

2011-01-04T18:21:00.000Z

Why a habitation service is important - chester chronicle

Happy 2011

2011-01-01T09:55:00.000Z

Image via WikipediaI have been taking calls all week from people looking to book in their caravans and motorhomes for their annual service. Please remember that we are entering a really busy period for engineers and you will need to be prepared for a wait before you can get your service. So please don't ring three days before you set off on a six month round Europe tour!!

What can I say - taps, taps and more taps seems to be the words going through my head. Experienced caravaners who know how to drain down their vans have been caught out by this severe frost. Taps and water pipes have split and caused a lot of heart ache for people. The good thing is that these things can be repaired but the parts can be expensive and I suspect they might well be in short supply this spring. What ever you do please try your caravan well before your due to go away. You need to check pumps, taps, water heaters and drains.

The weather again

2010-12-15T16:57:00.000Z

Image via WikipediaIf your heading to Derbyshire this weekend or even for Christmas then its worth checking the weather forecast. The BBC website has a good forecast section.

I have been trying a fairly new thing out in the snow - they are called snow socks and they fit over your tyres to give you grip. I have to say that they seem to be very good and they have kept me mobile in the snow and ice.

I've heard that the Chatsworth Caravan Club site has reopened after being closed due to the snow and exceptional cold. Well done to the team over there for looking after those few people that ended up stranded at the site.

Caravan Fire in Derbyshire

2010-12-05T18:53:00.000Z

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-11921476

Christmas

2010-12-03T17:08:00.000Z

Image via WikipediaAre you wondering what to buy for Christmas? Have you thought about a GPS tracker for your caravan or motorhome? I can supply and fit a really good model by SkyTag.

A tracker like this can help you recover your pride and joy and SkyTag have a very good recovery rate. Take a look at their web site and if your interested why not call me or drop me an e-mail.

The Skytag GPS tracking location service is designed to work in conjunction with a theft report and Police crime number from the owner. Once this number is received Skytag personnel will activate the device and pass its location details on to the Police when found. The Police will also be provided with a login and password to view the online session display provided by your vehicle.

SKYTAG offer the very best product at the very best price, often the cost of protecting your motorhome or caravan can be offset with discounts offered by insurers. SKYTAG provide a certificate for this purpose, you may even find that with the discounts negotiated, you can enjoy the security of SKYTAG Motorhome GPS tracking for just a few pounds a year.

Snow

2010-12-02T09:26:00.000Z

Well its Thursday, its still snowing and I can't get out of the drive. Its been a very rough week weather wise and I know there are many people out there in their caravans and motorhomes. If your one of them keep warm.

-15 centigrade overnight

2010-11-28T18:40:00.000Z

Image via WikipediaI have been to a local caravan club site to remove a damaged motormover. The wardens were busy trying to get water flowing in frozen taps. The temperature was down to -15 overnight and a lot of visitors were having water problems. Its worth draining down overnight, bring in your pump and leave the heating running.

Another customer asked me if I had a propane regulator as he was trying to use butane. Butane is no use in cold weather at all, it stops vapourising and just will not work when you get down to frosty conditions. Do yourself a favour and move over to propane

Yesterday was very frightening, even with a 4x4 I was sliding backwards on a slight incline. I had to head for the curb to stop sliding in to parked cars.

-3

2010-11-27T17:12:00.000Z

Well its -3 here in sunny Derbyshire. Two jobs done today, the first was a revisit to sort out a combi boiler in a motorhome and the second to remove a broken boiler drain plug. This morning went well but this afternoon the roads have become like a skating rink. It was very dangerous on the road and I was glad to get home.

MCEA Quality Standard Audit.

2010-11-23T20:29:00.000Z

Well I have just got home after my MCEA Quality Standard Audit. Its been a very tiring day but enjoyable. Its good to meet up with colleagues and learn from each other. A good day.

AlKo

2010-11-19T20:46:00.000Z

I have just come back from a course at AlKo's UK base near Coventry, It was a really good course run by people that understand what engineers want and need. Great day thank you AlKo.

I was also nice to catch up with other MCEA engineers that I have been on courses with before. Its not very often that we get together so it was nice to catch up.

Damp van

2010-11-14T18:42:00.000Z

Image via Wikipedia
I went out this morning to check a caravan for some friends. The van was very tidy, great spec but a bit green - it needed a good wash. My first check in all of these cases is a damp check and low and behold it was damp, 60 to 80% in places and 30% in others. What looked like a good buy would have been a money pit so my friends had a narrow escape.

I was close to a large market town and it's Remembrance Sunday in the UK. It was good to see so many people taking part in acts of remembrance and to see a formation of aircraft overfly at 11 o'clock. It makes you think and be grateful to those that have died serving their country.

Caravan Thief on Google Street View?

2010-11-08T17:53:00.003Z

Image via WikipediaHas a caravan thief been caught by a Google street view camera car in Derbyshire?
Take a look.

People

2010-11-07T08:22:00.000Z

Image via WikipediaI have decided the reason that I enjoy this job so much is the people that I meet. Yesterday I went out to service a caravan on a customers driveway and met a really lovely couple who fed me tea every hour and even offered me a bacon sandwich. They were interesting to talk to and took an interest in what I was doing without getting under my feet. From there I went to see a customer who I have done a few bits and pieces for over the last year. I was there to winterise their caravan and show them what to do for next year. I got there to be offered apple cake and tea - its a hard life! Then off to a local camp site to collect a charger that I had leant to a customer, had a nice chat to the guy in reception, collected my charger and off home for a hot shower.. oh and did I say the sun shone all day long and its November. What a nice day.

Travel around Derbyshire

2010-11-03T14:14:00.001Z

I regularly get calls from people and they are very surprised that I travel out to my customers. If your in the Peak District, Chesterfield, Alfreton, Derby, Matlock, Ripley, Ambergate or Ashbourne then yes I come to you. Take a look at my web site and you will see a map of my coverage area.
Not only do I come out to service your caravan or motorhome but I will come out to you on site if something stops working or breaks. So if your holidaying in Derbyshire and something goes wrong then please ring me.

Electrical connector

2010-10-31T18:57:00.002Z

I thought that you might like to see an electrical connector that I removed from a caravan this weekend. I took a call from a couple on a local campsite that could smell burning. This is what I discovered underneath the battery box. I really think that it must have been close to catching fire - a real worry.

Sent from my HTC

Make that four.

2010-10-30T16:14:00.000+01:00

Image via WikipediaI'm now on four chargers/power supplies in a week, what on earth is going on??? I keep a spare charger in stock that can be used as a temporary repair for people on site whilst either I or their local engineer locates the right parts. I've been out to buy another spare one today.

I don't think I have changed more than a couple all year until this week.

Battery Chargers

2010-10-27T20:31:00.000+01:00

Image by kiwinz via Flickr
Three days and three call outs to failed battery chargers. I have never had this number of call outs for the same thing so close together. I carry a temporary charger that I can connect whilst we order new parts or until the customer gets home. This week I needed more than one!!!

Its interesting just how many call outs I am getting. We have had half term spread over a few weeks so the camp sites around Derbyshire have been very busy. I guess the number of people and the cold weather means there is a lot of electrical equipment being used and putting strain on the caravan battery chargers.

Thank you Paul

2010-10-24T13:32:00.002+01:00

Image via WikipediaI want to say thank you to a colleague of mine who pointed out that my blog was carrying adverts for some dubious services. I hope that I have managed to remove the offending material and return the blog to caravans and motorhomes which is what its supposed to be about.

Christmas is coming.

2010-10-23T12:25:00.001+01:00

Christmas is well and truly on its way. So what do you buy the caravaner or motorhomer that has everything? There are some good gifts in my shop which you can find at my website.
I would suggest the following -

tyre pressure gauge
tyre inflater
caravan cleaner
a small tool kit
a winter cover
portable vacuum cleaner
satellite dish
e-reader
refillable lpg tanks

Any other suggestions would be warmly welcomed.

Winter arrives in Derbyshire.

2010-10-18T21:32:00.000+01:00

Image via Wikipedia
Well we have had our first frost of the year. On Sunday 17th October 2010 I had to scrape the car before heading for the NEC in Birmingham. So its official - winter has arrived in Derbyshire.
With the low temperatures you really need to think about getting your caravan and motorhome ready for winter. You should drain the water system, empty your boiler, leave the taps open, open the cupboards to prevent condensation and if you can leave a small oil filled radiator running then do so.

Contact

2010-10-11T13:57:00.000+01:00

I have been running my blog for sometime now and its frustrating how few people comment. Those people that have commented tend to want advice or prices. It would be much better if you left the blog for general comments and if you have technical or business questions to send me an e-mail. All of my contact information can be found at my web site.

International Caravan & Motorhome Show Birmingham

2010-10-09T19:37:00.000+01:00

Its time for the Autumn International Caravan and Motorhome Show at the NEC in Birmingham. Once again the Mobile Caravan Engineers Association (MCEA) will be exhibiting at the NEC from the 12th to the 17th October 2010. I will be working on the MCEA stand on the 16th and 17th and would leave to see as many of you as possible. Look out for me and say hello and let me know that you read about the show on my blog. So if your interested in the MCEA and our servicing come along and see us in Birmingham.

Weather

2010-10-02T20:12:00.000+01:00

Image via WikipediaIts been a terrible week in the Peak District. The rain has been monsoon like at times. I have had to cancel jobs and re-arrange to try and work around the downpours. I'm sorry for the customers that have to wait as it was just too dangerous to work at times.

I have just finished servicing a five year old caravan that had been serviced before. However it was clear that the previous servicing had not - how shall I say it - been very comprehensive. It was hard work but after two visits it has been completed and I am now happy with it. I hope that my customer was happy too.

Busy, busy, busy.

2010-09-26T20:52:00.000+01:00

What a busy week and its supposed to be the quiet period for caravan and motorhome servicing! Servicing might have have gone a bit quieter but repairs and call outs are keeping me very busy. I hope that it stays this way.

Autumn

2010-09-22T16:54:00.000+01:00

Image by jean-louis zimmermann via Flickr
Its the end of September and Autumn is just around the corner. Now is actually a good time to have your motorhome or caravan serviced. You might think its a strange time but there are a number of advantages. Engineers aren't quite so busy, you can have the vehicle drained down and readied for winter at the same time and if something wrong is found then you have plenty of time to put it right before spring. So why not pick up the phone and service your vehicle over the winter.

Solar panel or generator

2010-08-29T10:02:00.000+01:00

Image via Wikipedia
If you follow the motorhome forums and to a lesser extent the caravan forums you will see this is an area of regular debate. Despite what some people will tell you there is no right or wrong answer. Both have high set up costs. Solar can trickle charge your batteries for many hours a day. Generators provide much higher levels of power but are noisy. If its for emergency use then generators probably win. f you want to wild camp and live off grid then solar is probably better.

Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing can supply both so if you want to discuss your options then give us a call or drop us an e-mail.

Fitting bits and pieces

2010-08-27T08:08:00.000+01:00

Image by code_martial via FlickrAs the children go back to school many people are looking to put their vans away for the winter. This is actually a good time to stock up on things that you really want in your motorhome or caravan.

Many people ask me about digital TV. We are now well in to the digital switchover and many people have found that their TV no longer works. Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing can supply digital TV's, satellite systems, digital aerials, out door sockets to plug in to the bollards available at some sites and many other useful items. Please call to discuss your requirements and if you know what you want drop me an e-mail and I will get you a price.

I have also had a run on additional locks which make it much more difficult for people to open the caravan or motorhome habitation door. These really do improve security and they are relatively low cost.

So what are you waiting for drop me an e-mail and get a price for those things that you have been thinking about.

Storage Yards

2010-08-22T09:40:00.000+01:00

Image via Wikipedia
Yesterday I was working in a local storage site, one that I visit regularly with a good reputation and excellent security. We were discussing a raid on another local site by thieves. I don't publish its location on my website again for security. However if your in need of excellent storage facilities in Derbyshire then I can point you in the right direction.

A good storage site is a must for many people, some are much better than others. A cheap storage site in a barn isn't really safe enough these days, you need barriers, cameras and preferably some dogs about. You might have a caravan worth £20k or a motorhome worth £30k so what is a few hundred pounds a year for good security.

Todays thoughts.

2010-08-21T08:35:00.000+01:00

Image via Wikipedia
Will it ever stop raining? I need to go and reseal a couple of vans but the weather has been so bad its just not been possible to do the job. Sometimes you wish you had a workshop but then I guess my customers wouldn't want to tow to my premises! Oh well roll on the summer...

As we get towards the end of the season its time to think about servicing your van before putting it away for the winter - why wait until the spring when everyone else is trying to book an engineer for a service. Book it in during the autumn and winter and you will have a better chance of getting an engineer at a time that suits you.

Don't forget if you have got a question about caravans, motorhomes, camping, spares, satellite TV, solar panels etc. etc. then you can always contact me for advice.

Breakdowns

2010-08-07T08:23:00.000+01:00

Image via Wikipedia

Unfortunately things sometimes go wrong with caravans and motorhomes and its good to know that there is someone out there to help you out. Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing offers a full breakdown service (not for motorhome mechanical issues relating to the base vehicle).

This week I have been called out to a broken motor mover, two fridges, two leaking gas regulators and a few other smaller things. Sometimes these can be fixed on site or occasionally we have to make arrangements to have the problem put right when the customer gets home.

If your going away you really should take with you the number of the MCEA National Breakdown service which is 0845 5192143. You will find this number and links to the MCEA web site on my own site at www.chatsworth-service.co.uk. I also recommend that you take a few spares with you such as bulbs and fuses. You can find a selection of useful products on my web site.

If your coming to Derbyshire or North Nottinghamshire then remember my number 07918 121085 and if you have problems then please call me.

An update from Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing

2010-08-03T08:42:00.000+01:00

To carry my tools and equipment I tow a trailer which is great for locking away when I have finished. What has become clear to me this year is that the terrain I work in really needs a 4x4. I have been thinking about it for a long time but now the time has come to buy. You really need something meaty with all of the farmers tracks we have to go down. So next time you see me I will hopefully using a 4x4 to tow my trailer.

A new shop on-line

2010-07-28T15:24:00.001+01:00

Today is a big day for Chatsworth Motorhome & Caravan Servicing with the launch of our new on-line shop which is powered by Amazon. You can now buy accessories and spares direct from www.chatsworth-service.co.uk and just select the spares tab.

I hope that you find this uesful. Please let me know how you get on.

I'm 300 miles away can you help?

2010-07-26T10:28:00.000+01:00

Image by Ravu al Hemio via Flickr

I had one of those heart stopping moments last week when a customer rings and says his electricity isn't working. The reason for my concern was that I had fitted a new MCB trip to his caravan a couple of weeks a go. Everyone automatically assumes that its due to the work and that can lead you up the garden path to an incorrect conclusion. Now under normal circumstances I would have made my way over to the caravan to do some problem solving but in this case the customer was 300 miles away.
A bit of questioning and testing by the customer identified the problem, no power from the bollard to the caravan and five minutes later he had power and calm returned.

Spares and parts

2010-07-24T08:35:00.000+01:00

Image by shrff via Flickr

I don't know what is happening in the industry but spares seem to be difficult to get hold of right now. I ordered a shower tap for a customer and I have been told its on six weeks back order and some fridge spares have taken two weeks to come.

Its hard to know why as last year similar parts were taking just a few days to come through. If you have a holiday booked then you really need to have your servicing and repairs booked well in advance. You don't want to get caught out by parts not being available.

Back to motorhomes and caravans

2010-07-22T15:33:00.000+01:00

Image via Wikipedia

After my diversion in to blogging I want to return to the real purpose of this blog - motorhomes and caravans.

I have entered into a number of conversations recently about motorhomes and caravans. In my opinion they are different, a motorhome is not a caravan with an engine. In general people use caravans to turn up for a week or so and have a holiday, usually in the same spot. Motorhomers (or if your the Caravan Club "motorcaravaners") on the other hand tend to use their vehicles for touring. So they may have one or two nights in one place then move on. Neither is right or wrong just different in my opinion.

Its actually quite interesting to see people migrate from one to the other and then back again as they expect the two types of vehicles to be very similar and they then find out how different they are.

New look

2010-07-22T15:26:00.000+01:00

Image via CrunchBase

I have been doing some work on the blog thanks to Googles excellent tools. I hope that you like the new look and feel and please drop me an e-mail if you read the blog, feedback is always welcome. I also publish my blog posts by Twitter so again please let me know if you read this via Twitter. I am busy trying out the Social Media apps and would like to know what works and what doesn't.

Call outs, call outs and even more call outs.

2010-07-19T20:37:00.000+01:00

Image via Wikipedia

It seems to be getting busier on the call out front again. Spring is always busy as the start of the season kicks in, we are now in the period when families go out as its school holiday time.

I have had water leaks, gas leaks and electrical trip problems this last few days. It really is false economy not having your caravan or motorhome serviced. A call out and parts can turn out really expensive so some servicing and pre-holiday checks are really worthwhile.

When thins go wrong

2010-07-10T08:15:00.000+01:00

Its been a busy time so I haven't had chance to post recently. However I have been trying out a new product, not the one I would normally use and its been a steep learning curve. It didn't work in the way that the manufacturer said it would and a small 2 hour job has turned into 8-10 hours and an upset customer. Not a good situation.

I am putting things right and I'm sure the customer will be happy at the end of the day buts its all very distressing when things do go wrong.

Feedback on my blog

2010-05-30T20:52:00.000+01:00

Image by theDumplings via Flickr

I fitted a new water heater for a customer last week and he came to see me in the storage yard. It gave me a real buzz as the customer said that he had enjoyed reading my blog. Its really nice to get some feedback so if your enjoying the things I write about then please let me know.

Trackers and Alarms

2010-05-25T20:51:00.000+01:00

Image by RafeB via Flickr

I have been getting requests for alarms and trackers and there is a degree of misunderstanding about them both. An alarm is designed to scare of the thief but a tracker is designed to get your property back.

Modern trackers are small and usually based on GPS technology and couple with a mobile phone SIM card to send messages back to the control room.

I'm in favour of strong physical security such as wheel clamps, gates on drives and steering locks on motorhomes. If you then couple this with a tracker you have pretty good security in place. If your buying a tracker then make sure that you have European cover as many don't have this functionality.

There are some good deals on right now so if your interested then please drop me an e-mail.

Teversal

2010-05-06T19:49:00.000+01:00

Image by Mark Edley via Flickr

I have been called out to the Teversal Camping & Caravan Club site a couple of times this week. If anyone wants to see how to run a first class site then go and pay them a visit. This is a first class site that deserves all of the accolades that have been bestowed upon it.

Spring in the Peak District.

2010-05-04T09:08:00.000+01:00

The Bank Holiday weekend has been very busy for me with servicing, motormover fitting and an auto changeover system to fit. Although the sun did shine it was very cold with a north easterly wind. On Monday morning at a large site in Ashbourne people were packing up early and heading home - for a warm I would think.

On Sunday I fitted a Royal Titan motormover, these are fairly new to the market having been launched at the recent NEC show. The MCEA sell and fit this range of well made movers. I have to say that I think that they are excellent value for money, well made and a pleasure to fit. If your in the market for a mover then you should take a look at the Royal range (a Unipart brand).

Whoops

2010-04-23T20:34:00.000+01:00

Oh dear, I was called out last night and went today to see a customer with no power. I arrived and discovered the power bollard had tripped. Quite embarrassing all round. I had no choice but to charge my call out fee as I had made a 30 mile round trip and time is money.

Water, taps and leaks.

2010-04-13T08:21:00.000+01:00

Its still very busy with damaged taps due to the frost earlier in the year. You can save yourself a lot of heartache and expense (call outs) by trying your water system at home before going on holiday. Please do this a few weeks before you go away as it may take some time to get the right taps and also arrange for engineer to fit them.

I've lost count of the number of taps I have stopped off so that people can finish their holidays and then get things fixed when they get home.

Gas leak

2010-04-06T13:13:00.005+01:00

I had a call out last night to Chatsworth Caravan Club Site. A customer arrived at tea time with a brand new caravan. When turning on the gas it was leaking very seriously. I was there within 45minutes to find the most dangerous gas installation that I have ever seen. The high pressure gas pigtail had only been finger tightened and gas was rushing out. After tightening the pigtail and leak testing the whole caravan the problem was sorted out but the customer unfortunately had to pay for a Bank Holiday call-out.

Easter

2010-04-01T12:05:00.003+01:00

Easter is here and its the start of the traditional caravan and motorhome season. There does seem to be a growing trend to use vans during the winter now and with the modern heating and insulation there is no reason why you shouldn't.

I'm sure the roads will be full of caravans and motorhomes today and tomorrow. Enjoy the Easter break and remember if you have a problem the MCEA engineers are here to help. If your in Derbyshire or North Nottinghamshire then please call me as I'm available all weekend for breakdowns.

Happy Easter everyone.

Is it summer

2010-03-27T21:13:00.004Z

Image by UGArdener via Flickr

Wow what a great day in Derbyshire. I have been outside in short sleeves, the sky is blue and the sun is hot. What a great place to work... If you enjoy my blog then please take a look at my web site.... thanks.

3 for 1

2010-03-26T19:49:00.001Z

Image via Wikipedia

I have just come back from Chatsworth Caravan Cub site. I went to complete some work on a caravan fridge and whilst there two other people approached me with problems. It was really busy on the site with a lot of people pitching up.

Who says there is no money around? It looks like it will be a busy weekend for me as its really busy and I'm having to work Sundays to keep up with everything.

Can you come now.

2010-03-21T17:59:00.001Z

I took a call whilst out working on a van from someone who want me to go out that afternoon to do a service because they want to go away tomorrow. There is no chance right now as motorhomers and caravaners are queuing up to get their vans serviced for the new season. Don't leave it until its too late, book early or you might not get in.

Spring is here.

2010-03-14T08:58:00.000Z

At last spring appears to have arrived. I was working in a storage yard near Matlock yesterday and lots of caravaners and motorhomers were coming in and out throughout the day. There were vans being cleaned, polished and generally being made ready for the new season. My day was slowed down as I took new bookings, chatted to people and gave away business cards.

I think the thing that shocks me is how little people think about safety. They will spend thousands of pounds on a caravan and tow car. They spend time cleaning the van and making it pretty and then they don't think about breakaway cables, brake servicing or even gas safety. I've been to so many vans that haven't had an engineer near them in many years.

I would also beg people that are looking to buy a second hand van to get an engineer to do a pre purchase inspection - we can save you from buying a pile of trouble.

Truma s5002

2010-03-07T18:49:00.000Z

This job brings all kinds of surprises. I went to fit some new gas burners on a Truma fire and when taking it apart I noticed it was full of matches. The previous owner obviously found the fire wouldn't light and opened the inspection point and dropped in matches.... then they wonder why it stops working. I think the owner was as shocked as I was.

Another satisfied customer I hope...

BPW

2010-03-02T21:22:00.001Z

Back from BPW in Leicester. It was a very interesting day with some excellent demos of the BPW products. I was impressed with the BPW products and the engineering is impressive its just a pity that the caravan companies seem to buy just on price.

MCEA and the NEC

2010-03-01T20:40:00.000Z

The National Exhibition Centre Show is over for another year and we are just starting to evaluate the results. Its clear that the show has been a huge success for the MCEA and I am sure that we will all pick up some business as a result. I'm really pleased to hear that the industry is taking the MCEA seriously.

The new range of Royal motor movers from Unipart seem to have gone down well. Sales have been very promising which is a good sign for the future.

I'm off to see BPW tomorrow andI'm looking forward to learning more about their products.

NEC Show Birmingham

2010-02-26T19:27:00.001Z

I'm back from a full day on the MCEA stand at the NEC. What a great show, it was so busy and there has been huge interest in the MCEA and our services. We have been showing our new range of motormovers from Royal (a Unipart brand) and the response has been very good.

There was a lot of interest in servicing and our new breakdown service Club MCEA.

A great show and I look forward to seeing you at the October show.

Another busy weekend

2010-02-15T14:59:00.003Z

Its been a busy weekend with both planned work and call outs. I guess that spring is here and everyone is unpacking their caravans and motorhomes and getting ready for summer. Certainly the sites I visited were busy if a little muddy in places. It always seems to be something different but I'm getting my share of water pump problems this year - I don't know why, could it be the very cold winter that's caused it?

Phone Calls

2010-02-10T21:06:00.000Z

Image via Wikipedia

I arrived home quite late last night as I had a call out just as I was finishing for the day. When I got home I had five missed calls from different people. It was interesting that they didn't then ring my mobile phone or leave a message. I wonder why this is, surely if your calling a mobile engineer then there is a good chance that they will be out and a call to their mobile is likely to get a response....

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