elddis Buccaneer, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 104 / 144

10-7
CARE OF YOUR CARAVAN
THE ALKO CARAVAN CHASSIS
Chassis members
The recommended tow vehicle coupling
height is 415 +/- 35mm from the ground to
the centre of the ball.
Manufactured from high quality steel, the
chassis has extra deep sections to provide
strength at points of maximum stress. Large
elongated holes are punched in the
longitudinal and towbar, (‘A’ frame) members,
to reduce weight to a minimum. Each hole
incorporates a return flange to maintain the
required strength and provide rigidity in the
extra deep sections.
The chassis frame is of a bolted construction
which, should the need arise, allows
replacement of individual parts.
The chassis is Hot Dipped Galvanised. This
is regarded as one of the best forms of
corrosion protection. It does however require
minimal maintenance in certain
circumstances.
When new the chassis is of a bright and
shining appearance. As the galvanising cures
during the initial 2 to 3 month period, this will
gradually change to a medium to dark grey
colour. This grey finish is the ideal, giving the
correct protective coating. During this curing
period the surface should be protected to
avoid possible wet storage stain, in the form
of a soft, light coloured, porous, oxidation
layer. If the chassis members are in contact
with any salt deposits from roads this should
immediately be washed off with a high
pressure washer. Salt attracts moisture
allowing the surfaces to remain wet, this
prevents curing and also allows formation of
wet storage stain.
It is recommended that the chassis be
washed off, using a pressure washer on an
annual basis (particularly after winter usage)
to avoid undesirable build up of salt and dirt
deposits.
The galvanised chassis should not be
painted or subjected to any other protective
treatment.
Should the galvanising become superficially
damaged exposing the steel core, this should
be cleaned and treated with a cold
galvanising spray obtainable from vehicle
accessory outlets.
Damage to chassis members through impact
etc. must not be straightened or welded.
Damaged chassis members must be
replaced.
Drilling or welding of parts or
accessories
This chassis is designed and built to precise
tolerances and must not be drilled or welded.
Independent suspension
The ALKO rubber suspension is designed
and developed to suit all types of road
conditions and is maintenance free. Three
rubber elements are contained within a
hexagonal axle tube. These provide
suspension and have inherent damping
characteristics. (Only the hubs and wheel
brakes require attention - see axle booklet
Part No. 580458).
Coupling head
The ball couplings are entirely automatic in
operation and designed for one hand
operation to suit the 50mm international ball
recommended by the British Standards
Institution, National Caravan Council and the
Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
Secondary braking (Breakaway
cable)
Uncoupling
Having lowered the jockey wheel to the
ground, operate the handle as previously
described. Lift the coupling clear of the
towing ball either manually or by operating
the telescopic jockey wheel.
Brake drum/hub assembly
The Euro Axle fitted to your caravan comes
complete with maintenance-free wheel
bearings greased and serviced for life.
Adjustment is not required during the design
life of the sealed bearing (100,000 km).
CAUTION: If replacement of the brake drum
or shoes is required, this must be carried out
by authorised AL-KO Service Centres.
Specialist tools and equipment are required.
The rear hexagonal bolt covered by a black
plastic cover must NEVER be touched.