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Brakes?
Nov 27, 2007 7:43:59 GMT 10
Post by getaway on Nov 27, 2007 7:43:59 GMT 10
Can someone please explain the braking system on mid 70s caravans.
Mine has a brake cylinder up front where the towing hitch is.
Is this to facilitate parking only or does it have a sliding mechanism that activates brakes when forward momentum is halted by applying tow vehicle brakes?
Went to the Caravan and outdoor expo in Bendigo last weekend and was very impressed with electric braking systems for vans.
Is this electric braking system "overkill" for my van 1974 "Newlands Premier" with a tare weight of 700 kg?
Finally, I had to buy a new socket for my van (the one you fit an extension lead into) Went to plug it into a power point and found out the lead won't fit! Appears to have a rather large earth pin. Obviously,I shall have to buy a power point to accomodate this larger earth pin. Does anyone know where to get one of these? ie, would an electrician stock these or must I get it from a caravan spare parts stockist?
Sorry about the multiple questions but I am new to caravans and my knowledge is obviously very limited.
Thank you in advance.
Mick.
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Deleted
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Brakes?
Nov 27, 2007 8:26:17 GMT 10
Post by Deleted on Nov 27, 2007 8:26:17 GMT 10
Giggay Getaway I am no expert in brakes nor electrics, however I have been around vans long enough to be dangerous. ;D The braking systems on the older vans was mostly hydraulic. As the car stopped the weight of the van pushing onto the car, would activate the piston on the draw bar, which in theory would activate the van brakes. As far as electric brakes, I don't think it is overkill. Safety here to mine is paramount. I have had quite lengthy discussions with a trailer builder in SEQ, and should I be fortunate enough to find a classic that is not going to cost me then earth, the moon and the stars, the first thing is to replace all the running gear, including draw bar , axles, brakes rims and tyres. ;D As far as the big pin on your power outlet, traditionally that is far a 15amp connection. You only have to look at a million forums about 15 and 10 amp leads sockets etc, that will really open your eyes. Hope that helps and enjoy Classic Caravans Cheers & beers vkgreenie
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Brakes?
Nov 28, 2007 5:09:25 GMT 10
Post by getaway on Nov 28, 2007 5:09:25 GMT 10
Thanks vkgreenie,
re the brakes, that is what I thought. They are obviously hydraulic. They appear to be in good order and being a believer in "if it's not broken don't fix it" I may just leave them alone!
I got onto a sparkie yesterday and he is coming over next week to install a 15 amp (caravan friendly) power point in my garage.
Re your search for a "classic caravan" Check out "ebay" there is a 16' Viscount starting bid $1400.00 I guess most importantly for you, it is located in Alexandra Hills QLD. (I presume that is a Brisbane suburb). Nothing ventured- nothing gained!
Mick.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Mar 1, 2008 7:17:19 GMT 10
The most annoying issue with hydraulic or mechanical overrun braking on a van/trailer, is that you cannot reverse, unless the activation slide is first locked.
Add the fact that overun braking only works in a perfect world, ...... and you have a pretty dangerous rig on the road in an emergency situation.
Safety is paramount.
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