elddis Buccaneer, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 110 / 144

11-1
STORAGE
STORAGE
LONG TERM & WINTER STORAGE
If the caravan is to be stored for any length of
time, especially over the winter period, the
following operations are recommended:
(i) Ensure all windows, roof lights,
habitation and exterior locker doors are
closed firmly and locked.
(ii) Remove all soft furnishings which could
be affected by damp conditions.
(iii) Clean the caravan inside and out as
detailed in the previous section.
(iv) Drain the water system (see Water
system).
(v) For winter storage and to prevent frost
damage all taps must be left in open
position. For those caravans with lift up
taps please ensure the taps are left in
the central position.
(vi) All blinds and flyscreens should be left in
the retracted position. Check all fixed
ventilation apertures are not obstructed.
(vii) Ensure that the refrigerator/freezer
compartment doors are left open during
storage.
(viii) Check that the site you have chosen to
store the caravan is open, fairly high and
dry and if possible not exposed to gales
etc. If this proves impossible it is
recommended that the caravan chassis
is anchored to the ground.
(ix) Jack up the caravan (use bottle or screw
jack, do NOT use the corner steadies)
so that the wheels are clear of the
ground.
(x) Support the caravan axle with wooden
blocks, axle stands or similar so that
when the jacks are removed the wheels
remain clear of the ground. Lower the
corner steadies to ‘just’ site the caravan.
Cover the tyres to prevent deterioration.
Release the handbrake.
(xi) Security: Lowering and locking the
corner steadies and removing the
wheels will reduce the risk of caravan
theft.
CARAVAN COVERS
Caravan covers may be used to protect your
new Buccaneer caravan provided that the
cover used is of a breathable type.
Lower the TV antenna and ensure the cover
is well tied down to avoid the cover being
punctured.
Your caravan must be ventilated every 4 to 6
weeks if it is to be stored with a cover in
place.
POWER DRAIN
Ensure that the leisure battery is fully
charged before placing the vehicle into
storage.
Once is storage disconnect the battery.
Check the battery state every 2 months, if the
terminal voltage drops below 12.07V then re-
charging is necessary.
Charging should be carried out in a cool, dry,
well ventilated area.
Do not place the battery onto cold surfaces
such as concrete as this will affect the
battery’s ability to charge.
This will depend on your leisure battery’s
capacity, age and state of charge.
Should the caravan be stored for a prolonged
period of time it is strongly recommended
that the caravan is fully serviced before the
commencement of use. Your retailer will
ensure that your caravan is safe, secure and
ready for your enjoyment.
Please note: Caravans stored for any length
of time should not have the handbrake or
brakes applied. The wheels should be
chocked or wedged and the handbrake
released. The hitch head should be checked
to see that it is fully extended and that there
is no load on the braking system. It is
recommended that you place a bowl of salt
within your caravan to absorb any moisture
during the winter months.