ATV42

Well done John and Jo. It's a teedy process isn't it. But, it's nice to be legal. Recently, our ATV for two had its ATM upgrade to 3990kg done at the factory; the staff at Kedron did a great job. If we are stupid enough to load our Kedron up to the new ATM, we haven't learnt anything !!!!!!!!!!! All the best for Christmas, and safe travels in 2018. Pete

Hi Merv. Was nice to meet you and Di at the factory last week. Always good to put names to faces. Hope the staff at Kedron looked after you. I'm really happy with the ATM upgrade they did on our ATV for two. With the new ATM of 3990kg I have a huge safety margin. We'll never get anywhere near that; if we do, we haven't learnt anything. The Gall Boys are certainly turning out some great looking vans these days, and with a huge range of options being available. Safe travels. Pete

Hullo Wayne. Welcome to the Group. We have been down the same track of selling a Kedron, and buying a new Kedron. My advice, for what it's worth, is to post your details in the 'for sale' section of the forum. Please include a brief history of the van i.e is it under cover, where has it been etc, also a description and features of your van etc, and importantly as many photos as you can. I guess the most important thing is to post a realistic price on it.........if you were a buyer, what would you prepared to pay for it. I know it's not easy, but don't let sentiment get in the way!!!! Wayne, I hope this helps in some small way to achieve your objective. All the best. Peter

With a lot of other Kedrons

Hi Chris I know where we'll be next weekend !!!!!!!!!!! All the best to you both. Cheers. Peter & Margaret.

Hi Paul and Belinda Given the option, I would go for the biggest system, ie the 400 amp system, you can afford. The reason we didn't go with EV Power is the distance from Brisbane. There is no use spending big money on a system that 'might do' compared to a lithium battery system what 'will do'. Considering your family of six, go for system more than what your current needs are (children grow and does their screen time) and what you can afford. I feel that if you go with a 300 amp system system, and with a family of 6, you maybe at the limits of the system, and that would defeat the object of want you want to achieve. The simple fact is, the more power you have, the more you use, and with a family of 6 you would more than the two of us. The Enerdrive people do put out a good system, that is why Kedron are using it. Why not contact Springers Solar at Capalaba for a quote, Cheers Peter

Hi there Paul We recently replaced our 5 year old AGM batteries in our ATV for two. I am writing this so you can compare lithium battery systems so that when the time comes you make an informed decision that suits your needs. We replaced our 3 AGM 120 watt batteries with 4 Victron 90 watt lithium batteries. We also replaced the original Kedron installed AC battery charger with a Enerdrive 60 watt charger suited for lithium batteries. We also replaced the original 25 amp Redarc DC to DC charger with a Victron buck boost 50 amp DC to DC charger. Plus some other components to link the whole thing together to form a 'system'. We kept the original roof mounted solar system (130 watt panels x 4, plus a 80 watt panel). Out of $10 grand, I had just enough change to buy a burger and coffee at Maccas!!!!!!!!!! Our usage I similar to what Chris has said. We opt for unpowered sites, and use our 1800 watt Zantrex pure sine wave inverter to supply 240 volt throughout the van. We use the toaster, electric jug etc. one night we even used our electric blankets all night. However, we do monitor our battery status daily or several times a day. The 50 amp DC to DC charger is the key to success because it charges the batteries with a quick regulated charge. And with 600 watts of solar, we never seem to run out of power. We used Springer Solar here in Brisbane to do the work, and are very happy with the work they did. From what I see on different forums and from comments others have made, Terry at T1 has a very good reputation. Paul, whatever lithium battery system you choose, if it has the capacity you need and has a bit in reserve, caravanning is so much easier. Good luck Peter

Hi Colin Does it come with or without sugar. LOL. Cheers mate. Pete

Hi Cathy and Greg. I remember when we were part of the Kedron group that did the Great Central Road in 2013, and that Greg was suffering from back pain.......the roads weren't that bad!!!!! I also remember talking to Cathy at the AGM in Canungra about taking on the Vice President's position. A position you took to heart and which you did a great job. If you can turn up at a nearby KOG gathering for the day, or even a few hours, it would be great to see you both. It must have been big decision to stop caravanning and put your rig on the market. Margaret and I wish you both the very best that the future holds. Pete

Hi Stu. How did you go with the shackles. Also, can you lower the tail gate fully with the van attached, or does top of the hitch on the van cause any restriction. Cheers Pete

Tony, have a look at the data plate. The ATM reads 3500kg. Looks like they have the Lovell braked towing capacity upgrade, but I suggest their ATM upgrade was/ still is 'work in progress' when they made the decision to sell. If Chris and Lynn have made the decision to sell their rig due to health reasons, Margaret and I wish them all the very best and hope everything goes OK. Pete

Great work Stu. Well done. Pete

The contributors to this discussion have or are addressing the 'weight' issues of their Kedrons and tow vehicles; and rightly so. I would like to think we can respect the opinion of all the contributors in this discussion. They have, after doing their own research to suit their individual situation regarding the 'weight' issue, and have or are doing are something about it, and within their budget. They should be congratulated for being pro-active on this issue. We will be upgrading the ATM of our Kedron ATV for two to about 3750kg. Our view is similar too Chris, we don't want to load the van up to a 4000kg limit or to 3750kg for that matter, but only to have a couple of hundred kilo in reserve should we slightly exceed the existing 3500kg ATM. Pete

Hi Hannah and the family. Decisions, decisions!!!!!!!! If all 3 Kedrons are well looked after, any of them will take you where you want to go, within reason and common sence. The 2012 ATV would be my choice. Weight is an issue for all caravanners, particularly for those of us with off-road vans, beit a Kedron or whatever. Quite a few owners have gone down the path of getting their vans replated and have an ATM in excess of the normal 3500kg capacity. With your Landcruiser, Lovell Springs have a GVM upgrade to 3800kg, and a braked towing capacity increase to 4000kg. Considering the age of the vans you mention, their unknown history and build status, if you want to get the Kedron replated, I suggest you contact the factory before you purchase it to see if it can be done. There is a lot to consider when purchasing a caravan and preparing to travel. The weight issue is definitely something to consider. Particularly considering all the 'stuff' the 4 of you need to pack in the van for a year long trip, and the extra 'stuff' you will probably collect along the way. But it can be done, and that's part of the fun. It's great you are considering a gap year to travel this beautiful country and to go off exploring those many special places this country has to offer. All the best, and happy and safe travels. Peter

Hi Rick That PL40 is on its way via Express Post. You will have to sign for it. Please let me know when you receive it. Suggest you change it over at night or cover your solar panels if it's a day time job. Write down the settings on your old controller so that it is easy to program the new one. Merry Christmas to you and Lea. Cheers Pete

Hi Rick What model Plasmatronics solar controller do you have. I have a new PL40 that I had as a spare for our first Kedron but never had to use it. I could send it to you, no charge. Might get you out of trouble. Cheers Pete

Hi Neville I can only speak about the Lovell upgrade because that is the one I have been following. They are also a very reputable company, and they too have all the approvals, including Federal approval. In the future, I think there will probably be several companies, including the one whose name you didn't mention, offering this type of upgrade. It's just a matter of choosing the upgrade that suits a persons needs, and who you feel comfortable dealing with. All the best for you and Kay for Christmas, and safe travels in 2017 Cheers Peter

Hi Neville Several months ago Lovell Springs released the increased braked towing capacity for the 200 series Landcruiser. A prerequisite is to have the Lovell GVM upgrade from 3300kg to 3800kg. This costs about $3000. The purchaser then has the choice of 2 Kits, each has a specific tow hitch with the Lovell trade name on them. You can't supply your own tow hitch. The Stage 1 kit is recommended for towing up to 3700kg, but the ball weight must not exceed 350kg. This kit costs about $3000. The Stage 2 kit is recommended for towing up to 4000kg, but the ball weight must not exceed 400kg. This kit costs about $3900. If anyone wants further details, I suggest they contact Lovell Springs or one of their agents/ dealers eg TJM. Whoever you contact, they might be able to print out a lengthy brochure, which is to much to reproduce here. Your caravan ATM must be increased also, and not to exceed the new towing capacity. Then there is the annual inspection your caravan has to go thru. Personally, I'll probably go for the stage 2 kit, because it's a better hitch, but will only increase the ATM to 3700kg, The axle capacity on our ATV for two is 3800kg. We already have the Lovell GVM upgrade. We are doing the braked towing capacity upgrade, not to load the caravan up to the new limit, but just to have a little safety margin around the current capacity of 3500kg. Cheers for now. Peter

Hi Chris You have done a really good job over the years. Margaret and I have always valued your wisdom and friendship. Thank you. Pete

Hi Vulcan That's fair enough. Yes, budget is important, even us pensioners have restraints!!! It's a good idea to have a factory tour, and I'm sure you will enjoy it. The Gall Boys and all the staff at Kedron are very approachable and pretty easy to get on with, and I'm sure they will try and answer your question regarding tow vehicles. Ask lots of questions and ask if you can see similar vans going through the production line and also ask what are they going to be towed with. Please enjoy the experience, they are just great people to deal with. Cheers Pete

Hi Pepper From our personal experience, I have dealt with the Gall Boys at Kedron for about 16 or so years now, and will continue to do so. In a couple of instances I have offered to pay for fixing some little things that we have 'buggered up' and they have refused to accept my money. They are just great guys to deal with. However, as with any business we deal with in the the long term, we have forged a good, friendly working relationship with them. I'm quite sure many of Kedron's customers have done the same. So, I agree with what others have said in response to your question. Cheers Peter

Hi guys That's no good!!!!! Over the years Kedron have used various windows from different suppliers. Would you mind posting a photo of the window in question so that people who have had similar problem with that type of window may assist. Cheers Peter

Hi guys Certainly agree with what Tony and Leon have said here. The Pine Rivers Showground at Lawton is a good place to stay for the first few days. I certainly would see what Kedron can provide, and then source the rest locally. The Showgrounds are within an easy walk to Bunnings, BCF and Springers 12 Volt Specialists, and a railway station that connects you with the Brisbane train network. A small shopping centre for the basics is also within walking distance. They also have a Saturday markets at the Showground. There are several places within a couple of hours north of the factory to explore, such as Maleny, Kenilworth, Maroochydore, Noosa etc that provide a range of facilities. Try out everything in the van until you feel confident. Even if you have a powered site, pull out the power cord and live 'off the grid' for a couple of days to make sure your solar and battery system is working properly. I guess the most important things to bring are: lots of time, a good sense of humour and lots of fun. Caravanning is a great lifestyle. Enjoy. Cheers Peter

Hi Vulcan Based on our experience and that of many of our friends, I suggest you look at a tow vehicle that will comfortably tow 3500kg and has a ball weight of 350kg. Like others, we started off with a camper trailer, we towed it with a early 80 series Landcruiser. Getting our first Kedron in 2003 we upgraded to a 100 series and the 3500kg towing capacity, and in 2011 to a 200 series. We know quite a few people, who like you, who have purchased a smaller caravan, about the size on the compact Kedron you have ordered. Then within a year or so, as their experience grows and their needs changes, they go for a larger caravan. At this point they have to upgrade the tow vehicle to compensate the weight of the new van; this can be a costly exercise. Most caravanners, Kedron or not, who spend months (even years) in their caravans have vans around 21ft or more; purely for the 'liveability' and room to move. Hence they go for the larger tow vehicle. The most common tow vehicles seen around caravan parks are Landcruisers. If you like your Kedron as much as we do, you might want to upgrade in the future. Buying a tow vehicle that will comfortably tow 3500kg in the first place, might be money well spent in the long run. Cheers Pete

Hullo Vulcan There are many ex-ADF people out there in their caravans and other RVs. But there is also a lot of ex-teachers, nurses, business people and other people from all walks of life out there travelling this wonderful country. We all just muddle through, and mix with each other and enjoy each other's company. However, it is true people with similar backgrounds do tend to attract each other, but that is the case anywhere. I spent many a night in a 'hoochie' at Shoalwater in the mid to late 1960s, but at that time man had not walked upon the moon!!! May the force be with you. Peter