2005 Avondale Argente 555-4 Upgrade & customisation

Last Updated 02nd August 25

Images of Purchase

Picked up our first touring caravan in October 2023 

it’s a 2005 Avondale Argente 555-4 

I've added links in the description to the items used throughout the process; and tried to keep things as categorised as possible beginning with the exterior followed by moving on to the interior.

The main purpose of this blog is to document our progress from the first day as well as sharing ideas;

which may assist others with their own project 👍

Table of contents

(Tap or Click Titles to read specific subject)

Alternatively Continue reading through

1. Door Lock
2. Service Cabinet Door Replacement
3. Dometic Fridge Vent Winter Covers
4. Waste Water Drain Outlet Replacement
5. Corner Steady Feet Replacement And Stacks
6. Mushroom Vent Replacement
7. Kojack Single Axle Jacking Point System
8. Truma Air Duct Pipe Insulation Upgrade
9. Front Storage Compartment Repair
10. Front 7N And 7S Plug to 13 Pin Plug Conversion
11. AL-KO Jockey Wheel Replacement
12. Awning Rail Protector
13. Protective Front Towing Cover
14. Solar Panel Install
15. Remis Blind Repair
16. 12V Diaphragm Water Pump Replacement Upgrade
17. Truma Water Heater Breather Vent Pressure Release Valve Replacement
18. Tap Aerator Valve Replacement
19. Truma Heater Cleaning
20. Smart Home on the move
21. Head-Unit And Speaker Removal
22. 12V USB 3.0 Power Outlets Install
23. Additional Sockets
24. Office Dado Trunking in kitchen
25. 3D PVC Wall cladding
26. Additional 240V Kitchen Socket
27. 12V Fridge Vent Fan Kit
28. Kitchen Roll Holder
29. Bin Storage
30. Oval Cabinet Light Upgrade
31. Kitchen Downlight LED Upgrade (Dimmable)
32. Ceiling Light LED Upgrade
33. Ceiling Light (Kitchen)
34. Awning Light (Remote module)
35. Wine Cabinet And Wardrobe Lighting
36. 12V Television Install
37. Dishwasher Install
38. Picture Frames
39. IKEA Storage Solutions to fit the spaces
40. Wardrobe floor storage
41. Replacement Toothbrush Glass
42. Kitchen And living room storage
43. Finally On The Road
44. Air Awning
45. Awning Annex/Bedroom
46. Vango Awning Side Canopy
47. Motor Mover Install
48. Security Items for Winter Storage
49. Motor Mover Storage Protection
50. Vango Havana Air Sofa
51. Fully Serviced Pitch Accessories
52. Mesh Barbeque Table

 

Door Lock

First thing we did before adding any additional items & not the most glamorous of additions was to change the door lock 

• Left Hand Caraloc 2000 replacement Door Lock: Click Here

• Right Hand Caraloc 2000 replacement Door Lock: Click Here 

Service Cabinet Door Replacement

As saw in the images above; 

Prior to our purchase of the Caravan; the Gas cabinet door had been vandalised at some point; 

Breaking the frame in the process of gaining access to the cylinder/cylinders thus disabling the door from closing correctly, 

I've managed to source a brand new door from eBay  

• Avondale Cabinet Door : Click Here 
• SILKAFLEX 522 Adhesive Sealant (White)Click Here  

Original door finally removed which took a bit of time to remove all screws followed by separating the frame from the body,

Centre panel transplanted in to the new door frame; tight seal around the centre

Lots of Silka-Flex sealant left behind on the body which needs to be cleaned off entirely; 

prior to reapplying fresh Silka-Flex sealant & screwing in the frame.

The gap between the Gas cabinet housing & the outer shell should not be there;

This is a Health & safety issue;

Because if the gas was leaking it will flow directly in to the rear of the kitchen cabinets via this opening;

I'll address this matter prior to fitting the replacement door. 

A slight bit of trimming involved here on the door frame to allow it fit correctly; 

these doors are the same for the under-bed storage compartment & the battery box compartment; 

as result this cylinder-shaped section is there to allow a power cable to pass through while the cabinet is locked,

not required when using as a Gas cabinet door.

Original layer of Silka-Flex sealant removed at the expense of my nails & finger tips;  

I've then used some A rated flame retardant expanding foam to seal around the Gas cabinet shell which should really have been sealed off from the main cabinet area during the build process of the caravan, 

With the Gas cabinet shell sealed off from the main cabinet area; 

I've applied a layer of Silka-Flex sealant to the surface of the door frame,

Prior to setting the frame in to position & fixing tight with the screws.

Cleaned off the excess Silka-Flex sealant from around the door frame & left to cure, 

Looking as good as new now,

Dometic Fridge Vent Winter Covers

Fitting some Dometic WA 120 & 130 winter vent covers 

to the LS100 & LS200 fridge vents which reduces the air flow during the winter months and has also helped with maintaining temperature inside

• DOMETIC WA 120/130 Winter Cover Set for LS100 & LS200 Click Here 

Waste Drain Outlet

Below is an image of the original 28mm Waste water outlets on the side of the Caravan; 

it is quite a common issue that the caps are not present; which can result in insects getting in to the can as well as a certain level of wind during touring & in storage. 

Below; I have sourced some replacements very cheap & only takes a few minutes to replace them for a better appearance and the benefits of having them capped.  

Two Phillips head screws removed; and the simply pull off the drain pipe;

 

Old & new next to each other for a quick comparison 

Both outlets now replaced; personally we think it looks much cleaner with the caps;

• P.L.S 28mm Caravan & Camper Waste Water Outlet: Click Here

Corner Steady Feet Replacement And Stacks

Since our Caravan is being stored on the driveway and its pretty sloped; we were in the market for some stacking blocks, 

To securely raise the surface a bit for the rear legs to reduce the level of travel for them to the ground. 

Found these P.L.S Carastack blocks which are very strong & interlock, 

Since the Caravan is now 19 years old & we don't know the age of the existing shoes, we decided to change those while we were at it, 

Above is an image of one of the Carafoot and a Carastack; 

As you can see in the image above;
The two tabs on the Carastack;
Slot in to the holes in both sides of the Carafoot for a non slip connection, 

Raising one leg at a time; lifted the leg up a few inches; 
pushed the lollipop style tab out & removed the shoe, 

On close inspection the excising shoes were showing some signs of age;


Which can be told by the colour compared to the base;

They are almost white where the underside shows they would originally have been as black as these new replacements;


As well as the indentation dip in the centre of the shoe.

Front Steadies complete within a few minutes;
Moved on to each of the rear;

The caravan came with these two blocks of wood which we had placed beneath the original shoes to level it on the driveway, 

Not the most astatically pleasing for a permanent storage solution but they served purpose for a time. 

The Carastack were very easy to lock in to the new shoes; 
They are a more secure & better looking solution, 

A Very easy job & looks a lot cleaner as well as peace of mind that they are not going to fail any time soon.

• P.L.S Carafoot Caravan Corner Steady Feet: Click Here

• P.L.S Carastack Corner Steady blocks: Click Here

Mushroom Vent Replacement

Below is an image of the original HDK mushroom vent located above the shower at the rear of the caravan; the top cover has deteriorated with age;

I've removed the interior grill in order to find the diameter of the mushroom vent as they are available in a number of various sizes.

Sourced the exact same mushroom vent from a local camping supplies shop

On further inspection it appears the mushroom vent consists of a number of components which are all screwed together, 

Since the section which is bonded to the roof of the caravan is not leaking & although looking a bit aged; its perfectly intact, 

I decided to leave it in position; instead replacing the rest of the components which join on to the main ring.

Three Philips head screws removed from inside the main ring; then up on the ladder outside to access the outer casing on the roof,

With the three Philips head screws removed from inside the main ring; the mushroom cover lifts clean off to reveal an inner ring  which is also easily removed, 

Going back to the replacement mushroom vent then to retrieve the replacement parts minus the main ring, 

Outer ring & mushroom cover fitted in place; back inside the caravan then to refit the three securing screws 

Replacement grill fitted & its job done; looks a whole lot better & functions as it should. 

• HDK 110mm Mushroom Vent for roof Thickness 25-50mm : Click Here

Kojack Single Axle Jacking Point System

Having done some research & learning about the process of changing a flat tire on a caravan;

I wasn't comfortable with the idea of jacking up the axle; I also didn't have to equipment to enable such action, 

I found this Kojack system on Amazon; 

Which bots in to the existing holes on both sides of the caravan chassis, comes supplied with a 4 Ton bottle jack & makes changing a wheel a whole lot easier.

Having levelled the caravan & locating the existing holes on both sides of the chassis at the rear of the wheels; 

It was a simple process of bolting on the jacking point brackets & ensuring they are level. 

• ProPlus Kojack Single Axle Jacking Point kit Click Here 

• ProPlus Kojack Double Axle Jacking Point kit Click Here 

TRUMA Air Duct Pipe Insulation Upgrade

I've saw some videos on YouTube;

where fellow touring caravan owners have insulated the exterior air duct pipework from there Truma air heater with good results, 

I Picked up four 7.5m rolls of foil pipe insulation & a roll of aluminium tape, 

Warm soapy water & a brush, cleaned off the air duct pipes beneath the caravan on a Saturday morning & left them 24 hours to dry, 

The following Sunday morning; 

I spent a few hours wrapping the ducts in a 45°degree motion allowing half of the previous strip to be overlapped by the next;

To best keep the overlaps from lifting or gathering dirt; 

I then cut the aluminium tape in to 5" inch long strips 

& 

coated the entire lagged pipe work with aluminium tape which also adds to the insulation and keeps all overlaps tight, 

I feel that insulating these transfer pipes will also help to retain heat within the caravan even when the Truma is not in operation as the pipes are an extension of the space within the cabin,  

I later closed the black retaining clips again which keep the pipes tight in position at all times.

• SuperFOIL Pipe Insulation Click Here 

• 2" Aluminium Foil Tape: Click Here 

.

Front Storage Compartment Repair

While beneath the caravan; 

Insulating the heat transfer pipes; 

I noticed that the front compartment under-tray has a few cracks and although the entire tray is present; 

it was in need of some repair,  

The interior floor of the front storage compartment had been modified with the addition of some 19mm plywood which had some sections of pine beneath it 

the original plastic undertray which was cracked in to two separate sections was then screwed up through the pine & in to the 19mm plywood.

A small pine section was built in the centre of the compartment to house the leisure battery which looks to have been the original from 2005 as its warranty expiry date on the top of the battery states: August 2011  

To my surprise;

When I put it on the voltage meter it was showing: 11.4V

Brought it to my local scrap yard; whom set it on there weighing scales & paid me 10 euro for it 

Moving on with the project then;

A small bit of fungus beginning to grow on the 19mm plywood within the original plastic tray too; this area was in real need of some attention, 

Removed a vast number of rusty Philips head screws which were holding the plastic under tray to the plywood on both top surface area & beneath joining upwards,

Exposing two box iron beams. 

Wire brushed & cleaned off the beams followed by masking around them with some Amazon paper packaging, applying two spray coats of zinc primer. Before adding two coats of black metal paint.

While I left this to dry; I got working on repairing the under tray.

First applied some runs of Gorilla high strength web tape, to help hold it together in the original shape,

Followed by mixing up some two-part resin & working it in to the cracked areas.

Fitted the repaired section of the undertray back into the front compartment; applied a heavy layer of silicone adhesive along the back of the bulk-head area of the storage compartment; 

followed by a series of stainless-steel screws to keep it in place as well as sealed,

I used the existing 19mm Plywood panels as a template for cutting out the replacements.

Popped them into the compartment for a quick trial fit,

Prior to applying two coats of Yacht varnish to all areas of the plywood,

Drilled a 10mm hole in the Near side panel which corresponds with an existing hole In the undertray; to allow me to feed the battery breather pipe down through. 

Measured the space for the battery tray; taking note of the existing location of the two beams; insuring not to obstruct their location when adding 4 bolts to secure the battery tray to the panel. 

Picked up some 4.2 x 25mm stainless steel self-tapping metal screws from Amazon; used a total of 8 screws to fit the new Plywood sheets to the front compartment, 

Leisure battery fitted & breather pipe fed through to the atmosphere below the front compartment, 

While working with the battery in the front compartment; it seemed like a good time to add a Victron Energy Smart Sense module for both temperature & voltage feedback via the app,

This clever device will become more effective later in progress; 

When we upgrade the existing PWM (Pulse With Modulation) Solar controller to a more advanced & 30% more efficient; 

MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) version from Victron Energy;

Which will better regulate the battery charge level with the additional use of this smart sense module.

The MPPT controller can shut down entirely or increase charging rapidly; depending on the feedback it receives from the Smart sense module attached to the leisure battery.

• 18mm Marine Plywood 4ft x 2ft/ 1220mm x 610mm Click Here

• Self Tapping Stainless Steel Metal Screws Click Here

• Gorilla Crystal Clear Grab & Seal Adhesive Click Here

• Gorilla Tape Black Click Here 

• 250ML Ronseal Satin Finish Yacht Varnish Click Here 


• 130Ah 12V Leisure Battery Click Here

• Victron Energy Smart Battery Sense Temp & Voltage Monitor Click Here

• Leisure Battery Vent Pipe Kit Click Here

• Large Battery Tray & Clamps for Series 27 30 31 Click Here

• Quick Release Battery Terminal Set Click Here

Front 7N And 7S Plug to 13 Pin Plug Conversion

The existing 12N & 12S plugs on the caravan were showing there age; 

There outdated these days where a 13-Pin connection does everything in one connection since around year 2011,

I’ve purchased an IP68 2-1 Joint box along with a 12-Pin Plug & Cable to complete the conversion.

Tracing back the cables; 

I found they enter via a grommet beneath the centre cabinet; unfortunately, the 13-core cable which I had purchased; 

Wasn’t long enough to allow the conversion to take place within the caravan inside the cabinet, 

I haven’t performed this rewiring job myself; 

I must admit I did purchase the items listed and had the guy who installed the tow bar; Carry out this job for me at the same time using the items which I provided. 

 

• Maypole MP1280B 13 Pin alignment Tool Click Here

• IP68 3-Way Outdoor Waterproof Junction Box Click Here

• 13 Pin Plug Male Connector 13 Way 12V DC Click Here

• 13 Core 12V Cable Wire Caravan (5 Metres) Click Here

AL-KO Jockey Wheel Replacement

I've noticed that the original jockey wheel was buckled, 

This can happen when the shaft isn't fully elevated prior to towing; 

Where the wheel can become in contact with any speed ramps in the road. 

I've Purchased a replacement AL-KO 48mm Jockey wheel with a wider; 

Soft plastic wheel which should roll smoother on grass as well as hard standing pitches. 

Very easy to fit and now as good as new.

• AL-KO 48mm Jockey Wheel  Click Here 

• Milenco Chock Base for Jockey Wheel Click Here  

Awning Rail Protector

I've purchased this 12 metre length of what the call awning rail protector; 

There are various colours and manufacturers on the market, 

We opted for the off-white colour manufactured by Maypole, 

the structure is very much like Teflon which is known for its durability & non stick properties; 

So here it is And very easy to fit; 

Slides in to the awning rail and runs from end to end on both sides of the caravan, 

Opposite side fitted exactly the same way, 

As saw in the image below; 

it provides a peak to the roof which prevents bird poo and rain from flowing down the sides of the caravan which not only gathers within the awning rail; 

But also causes black streaks to form down the sides of the caravan, 

it also prevents insects from creating a home within the awning rail. 

Rain & dirt from the roof now falls directly on to the ground surrounding the caravan rather than rolling down the sides. 

• Maypole MP951 Awning Rail Protector Colour: Off White 12M  Click Here 

Protective Front Towing Cover

Purchased this Gadlane front towing cover soon after purchase of the caravan; 

It's really well made waterproof and breathable with triple layer protection.   

Also came with two little LED puck lights which are intended to fit inside the clear pocket on both sides at the top.  

• GADLLANE Universal Front Towing Cover Click Here 

Stretch Fit Protective Front Towing Cover 

The Gadlane Cover has lasted well over the first year of use; 

However the bother of routing 14 individual straps in to the awning rail followed by routing them through the eyelets of the cover 

then looping up the pig tails to prevent them flapping in the wind, 

Has been the instigator of a number of arguments when trying to get the cover level on the front of the caravan, 

and took a good 30 minutes to fit; 

At a time where many things need to be done before setting off on our journey, 

I was first looking at the stretch fit covers manufactured by Protec Premium Caravan & Motorhome Covers UK | Protec Covers

I then saw the price at £375 GBP. 

While researching front covers which wouldn't be as stressful; 

I found this new to the market Xtreme Leisure StretchGuard Caravan towing cover; 

75% cheaper than the Protec and doesn't need straps. 

.

.

The cover is available in tow different sizes;

To discover which size you require; 
measure the width of the front end horizontally from awning rail to awning rail 

at three locations, 

low, middle & high, 

which ever measurement is the highest; 

This is the size you require, 

in our case the widest point was the middle measurement at 92"

which equated to us requiring the Small cover. 

The cover comes with a breathable storage bag which is nice to have; & helps with storage,  

Inside then their are a total of six hooks; which clip to the bottom of the cover & no issue with aligning these; they simply hook in beneath the front panel of the caravan, 

Fitting the cover took less than 5 minutes while doing it just by myself: 

As you can see in the images below; 

The six straps are hooked in beneath the caravan & clipped in to the cover, 

The grey sections are triple layer waterproof & breathable material; 

The black sections are the parts which stretch and seem to be a really thick Lycra type material,

Overall I'm happy with how it looks & delighted with how easy it has been to fit, 

No dread in fitting after the next break away; 

more time for one last coffee rather than bracing the elements to achieve the same results in preparation for towing. 

• 88-94" Xtreme Auto Guard Stretch Guard Towing Cover :Click Here

• 95-102"Xtreme Auto Guard Stretch Guard Towing Cover :Click Here 

Solar Panel Install

The existing aftermarket 70W Polycrystalline solar panel & PWM Solar controller system fitted by a previous owner;

They did a good job with fitting two 90 degree aluminium rails to the roof; 

to house the solar panel at an angle which prevents rain from resting on the surface, 

However they then used some mild steel bolts to fix the solar panel to the brackets; 

which were beginning to rust, 

if left this way they would of course continue to rust followed by leaving a nasty brown stain on the roof of the caravan which would continue to spread, 

That was one reason why this system had to be removed, 

The next reason why this 80W Polycrystalline Solar panel had to come off was; because the cable they used to wire it from the Panel to the PWM controller was way too small of core diameter or gauge if you prefer the Imperial system, 

The cable saw here is designed for speakers & audio equipment not electrical current, 

it was routed from the roof; to inside the awning rail on the side of the caravan where it travelled to the ground, followed by entering inside the cabin via one of the existing drop vents in the floor,

then in to the PWM controller as saw in the image below,

Having removed all of the existing solar kit; 

I've measured the space between the aluminium brackets & sourced a good brand of Monocrystalline solar panel which is 100w & 30% more efficient at harvesting electricity compared to the older Polycrystalline designed solar panels. 

“Weather Permitting insert image” 

“Weather Permitting insert image” 

“Weather Permitting insert image” 

“Weather Permitting insert image”

• EcoWorthy 100W Monocrystalline Solar Panel: Click Here 

• 12AWG Solar Panel Cable Click Here 

• IP68 Double Cable Entry Gland Click Here 

• Victron Energy 75V- 15Amp MPPT Solar Controller Click Here 

• IP67 In-Line Fuse socket Housing Click Here 

• 12AWG Crimp Ring Terminals Click Here 

• Drill Free Solar Panel Mounting brackets Click Here 

• SILKAFLEX 522 Adhesive Sealant (White) Click Here

Remis Blind Repair

Following purchase we discovered the front right blind wouldn't stay down on any of the levels, 

On closer investigation it became apparent that the clip was completely missing on the right side; 

At first, 

I was searching eBay for an entire blind replacement;

until I had spoken to my local caravan supplies shop; 

Where I discovered the blinds are manufactured by a company called Remis; and the clips are available to purchase for very little money,  

As saw in the image below; these clips are different for the left & right side; however both left & right are supplied in the package, 

All fixed in a matter of minutes the blind is functioning perfectly, 

 

• REMIS Blind Clips Click Here 

12V Diaphragm Water Pump Replacement Upgrade

Below is an image of the original 12V ShurFlo Diaphragm water pump manufacture date on this specific model fitted in our 2005 Caravan is 06/2003. 

further information specifications: 

Manufacturer: ShurFlo 

Model: 30/7

Model no: 2095-204-111 

Power: 12V 4.5 Amp

Open Flow: 1.85 Gallon/ 7.0 Litres Per Minute.

Pressure setting: 1.1 Bar / 16 Psi

Weight: 1.6kg 

Maximum noise level: 76db 

As you can see in the image below; 

The water filter on the pump has seen better days, 

Traces of silicone added around the casing of the pump,

Looking at the specifications on the TRUMA water heater tank; it stats the maximum water pressure it can take is 3.5 Bar,

This has left considerable room for improvement when upgrading the existing ShurFlo 1.1Bar diaphragm pump for something more powerful at the tap.

Below is an image of the replacement 12V Seaflo Diaphragm water pump,

further information specifications: 

Manufacturer: Seaflo 

Model: 42 Series

Model no: SFDP1-030-055-42

Power: 12V 7.5 Amp

Open Flow: 3.0 Gallon/ 11.3 Litres Per Minute.

Pressure setting: 3.8 Bar / 55 Psi

Weight: 1.9kg 

Maximum noise level: 32db 

I’ve also added a Seaflo accumulator tank to the system; this is basically a balloon inside of a pressurised tank; 

The balloon holds 0.75Ltr of water as it flows from the pump, it then releases its capacity into the pipes when the tap is opened; Prolonging the cycle time of the pump,

The accumulator tank also absorbs fluctuation in the water pressure; particularly at low flow which eliminates pulsation from the taps.

The original ShurFlo pump has 4 cable connections. 

Main positive & negative on the tail end of the pump;

also the two connections shown by the arrows on the image above; 

These connections feed into the pressure regulator switch, 

On the new Seaflo pump there is also a factory fitted pressure switch as standard just like the original ShurFlo model;

The positive feed cable is looped through the pressure switch to result in a single positive & negative feed,

The replacement pump will not function with just the power cables feeding to it,

As result, you must locate the positive feed cable which exits alongside the negative cable at the rear of the pump,

cut this positive cable at around the same length as the negative feed will currently be,

you will then be left with two red cables which exit from the pressure switch as shown in the image below:

Join these cables to the existing loom which was connected to the pressure switch on the original pump; 

Paying attention to the size of the spades which are crimped on the ends; one spade is wider than the other; this difference will also be the case on your original loom, 

Be sure to crimp the correct size to the correct matching size on the existing loom. 

Pressure switch Cover refitted.

I then built a small island to raise the height of the new pump using two small sections of 22mm MDF; 

Which I had cut to size & stacked to create a 44mm raised platform which I mounted the new diaphragm pump on to, 

This allows adequate space beneath for the Seaflo pressure accumulator tank to sit in line with the pump and attach to the pipe feeding from the output of the pump headed towards the taps. 

I’m very pleased with how well it has fitted and performs; 

The taps feel much more like home, 

The operation of the pump is 3 times the pressure and almost silent compared to the original 12V ShurFlo diaphragm pump and the comfort of a 2-year guarantee.

• John Guest 1/2" BSP to 12mm Push Fittings (2 Pack) Click Here

• LocTite Pipe Sealing Cord (Teflon Tape) Click Here

• 12mm Blue rigid water Pipe (sold Per metre) Click Here

• Seaflo Pressure Accumulator Tank Click Here 

• 12V Seaflo 42 Series Diaphragm pump Click Here 

Truma Water Heater Breather Vent Pressure Release Valve Replacement 

The breather vent pressure release valve on the Truma water heater was looking quite dirty;


Apparently this dirt inside is dust which has gathered inside of the outlet side
Which has accumulated over the years;


due to the end of the pipe being open to the atmosphere directly beneath the caravan,

At first I had intended on only replacing the 12mm outer diameter/10mm internal diameter clear tube which exits the caravan through the floor;

However the joint where it links to the Truma later began to drip,

So I've ended up replacing the entire valve which comes as a kit complete with the hose. 

Their are four different generations of Truma water heaters now in 2025, 


Our model is a second generation which has a 12mm John Guest push fitting and a screw fitting on to the Truma barb outlet 

I figured this is a good opportunity to show how the 12mm John Guest fittings separate from the hoses; 

Push the inner ring of the fitting in towards the bulk of the fitting 

Followed by pulling out the hose; while keeping the inner ring pushed in, 
much like a Chinese finger lock, 
the hose then comes free from the fitting, 

Unscrew the grey nut from the Heater side of the red fitting; which shouldn't be difficult as they are only tightened by hand. 

Gently pull off the red section of the breather from the barb of the Truma;
Where you should see a black rubber washer inside, 

Original breather vent now removed: 

Replacement Breather now ready to go in and I've made sure the little black rubber washer which is supplied as part of the kit;


has been inserted in to the bulk of the fitting just as it was in the original unit which has just been removed; 

Red nut fitted and spacer clipped in; rubber washer in place, 
simple case of bringing it all together, 

Routed the new vent hose out through the existing hole in the floor; 

Route Beneath the caravan then;
I've cut the excess length from the breather hose as it was quite excessive trailing on the ground. 

Another Job done & Thankfully no leaks  

• Truma81522 Water Heater Pressure Release Breather kit: Click Here 

Tap Aerator Valve Replacement

Picked up a 4 Pack of 24mm Tap Aerator in the middle isle of my local Aldi and as soon as I had taken the original aerator off from the kitchen tap; 

I was sure glad that I was replacing them, 

looks to be fragments of decomposed leaves or something similar which was trapped inside the tap at the rear of the original aerator, 

• M24 Tap Aerator Insert (3 Pack) Click Here

Truma Heater Cleaning

Removed the front panel from the Truma Heater & gave the aluminium a good vacuum;    

While in there; 

I replaced the AA Battery which is used to power the Gas ignition spark unit for the Gas & slotted it back in correctly, 

Smart Home on the move with Amazon Echo

Now moving on from repairs to something a bit more interesting & less predictable 

I've purchased two 5th Generation Amazon echo's along with 12v power supply extensions & wall mount brackets,  

fitted both of the echo's to the underside of the percolate o both sides; paired them up to act as a left & right speaker via the app. 

Power supply has been routed inside of the storage cabinets on both sides followed by routing the power supply down to the space under the sofas on both sides of the caravan. 

I've then added some sticky back PVC conduit to hide the cable from view; 

as saw in the images below; its fitted tidy along side the rails for the blinds on both sides of the caravan, 

I then began to remove the original single DIN stereo head unit & speakers which were sitting loose in the shelf area at the front of the caravan,  

I've also removed the outdated halogen spot lights in favour of a more modern RGBIC Neon strip which is capable of some really impressive colour combinations & sequences, 

I've fitted some insulated female crimp connectors to the ends of the 12v cables which were powering the original halogen spot lights in order to prevent them from making contact. 

Repeat process on the opposite side of the caravan. 

I then got some 12v cable to tape on t these original looms prior to poking them back up in to the holes, 

original loom poked back up in to the original holes, 

This small black cable is taped to the side of the existing loom cables, 

its not live or anything atoll, 

its purpose is to enable the easy retracement of the original loom cables if ever required,

I've since sealed these holes with some brown silicone leaving just a small tab of black cable exposed;

which if pulled will break the silicone & bring out the original loom. 

Looking much cleaner now in my opinion; with the spot lights removed. 

Next we began to fit the new Smart RGBIC Neon strip; which can be controlled via supplied remote, via the app on your smartphone and via voice by asking Alexa, 

In the image above ☝ on the left is a cable clip which I had spare in the tool box; 

on the right is one of the clear plastic mounting clips which is used to hold the LED Neon strip in place, 

I'm using the white PVC bracket as a jig by taping one of the brackets to it; 

I can then fit the clear brackets to the underside of the percolate safe in the knowledge that they are consistently spaced correctly & consistently from the edge 👌

All brackets now fitted;

we routed the power cable; in along side the amazon echo on the kitchen side & down to the compartment beneath the sofa along side that of the Amazon Echo. 

The video below is a short sample of the Neon strip in operation; 

I personally like the flow from both edges towards the centre, 

its capable of replicating northern lights as well as meteor shower, strobe effect & audio sensitivity 

• 5th GEN Amazon Echo Dot Click Here

• Amazon Echo Bracket Mount 5th Gen Click Here

• Right Angle Power Extension 3 Metre for Amazon Echo Click Here

• Govee RGBIC Neon Strip Mounting Brackets Click Here

• IP65 Rated Smart Neon LED Strip Light 5 Metre Click Here

• 3 Metre Power Extension for the above Neon Strip Click Here

• 10 x 8 mm Cable Trunking Click Here

Head-Unit & Speaker Removal 

(Thermometer & Hydrometer Install)

The next stage was to remove the stereo replacing it with a single DIN blanking plate which looked silver in the listing but wasn't when delivered😅 

I applied a few coats of spray paint from the local pound shop & it became exactly what we required. 

Taped up the original head unit cables 

 

Thermometer & Hydrometer fitted, in to the single DIN blank plate, 

its nice to have it serving some level of purpose 

• 44mm LCD Digital Hygrometer & Thermometer Click Here

• Single DIN Car Radio Stereo Blank Click Here 

12V USB 3.0 Power Outlets Install

While sitting on the sofa in the caravan; 

I got the idea to install some high speed USB power outlets to the percolate to charge phone or tablet, 

I logged on to Amazon and found these good quality aluminium housed smart USB power outlets.  

I've crimped on some insulated Male spade connectors to the end;

 

And fitted them to the original wiring which once powered the 12v Halogen reading lights which were once positioned in the percolate. 

Marked & drilled holes using a Step drill bit rather than a whole saw to best prevent risk of splintering the laminate surface,  

First outlet complete 

Repeated the process on the opposite side; 

both sides now complete & functioning as expected.

The USB Ports remain hidden from view which retains a clean factory appearance;

Without causing a potential trip hazard or being at risk of snapping the charger or cable, 

• 12v High Speed USB 3.0 Power Ports: Click Here 

• HSS Step Drill Bit Set: Click Here 

• Crimp Spade Connectors: Click Here 

Additional Sockets

Now; 

Getting back to the Amazon echo's & Neon LED Strip which we routed the power supply's to beneath the sofa,

I've now got to fit some domestic sockets in there to complete the install, 

I purchased the connector blocks as saw in the image above;

 

However we ended up not using those as we have daisy chained from the original sockets,

As saw in the images below,  

The plywood divider previously fitted; is very thin to be mounting a double socket box to; 

As result we have added a strip of pine to the rear of this panel to brace it & add greater depth to the area where we will be screwing on the surface box for the new socket, 

we have taken the original power cable feeding to the outside socket of the caravan & put it in to the new double socket; 

Followed by running a new piece of cable back out from the rear of the newly fitted double socket;

Out to the original outside socket of the caravan,

Double socket wired in to power the 5th Gen Amazon echo on the left side of the caravan & a base charger for the WORX Vacuum cleaner, 

The battery will also do a WORX compressor & Impact driver for the corner steadies.

On the right side then; 

Well technically the fridge should really be on its own trip switch supply; 

But we daisy chained from it to add the double socket on that side; 

To power the right Amazon echo & the LED Neon strip.  

• 3 Core 2.5mm Electrical Cable (Per Metre) Click Here

• BG Electrical Double Socket Click Here

• Surface Mounted 25mm Double Din Socket Box Click Here

Office Dado Trunking in kitchen

As saw in previous images of the interior; 

The kitchen area is very limited with only two sockets as standard,

 

We decided to square off the kitchen area by adding a section of PVC office dado trunking;

To house an additional 240v socket & some 12v Powered High speed USB sockets. 

I've fitted connector blocks to the end of the original wiring as a temporary measure, 

Which allowed us to turn the power back on to the caravan while we continued to fit the dado trunking. 

Dado trunking cut to the required size as saw in the image above;

Along with an end cap and two single Din socket inserts. 

The single Din Socket boxes slide in to the rail of the dado trunking, 

The factory loom in the image above; 

Is from one of the original halogen reading lights; 

Which were previously removed in favour of the LED Neon strip, 

I've run a fresh 12v 15amp twin cable from this original loom;

In to the centre of the dado trunking to now power the 12v USB outlets. 

Trimmed out a few sections on the dado trunking to allow easier fitment of the cables,

12v Supply is in for the USB

&

240V supply daisy chained in for the two sockets

all wired in & checked for operation 100%

Bit of marking & drilling involved in fitting the USB outlets to the face of the PVC 

I've masked it up to prevent any unwanted scratches to the finished panel,

Those sockets were floating around spare at the time, 

I've later changed them out for a more minimalist looking Lissie sockets; 

Manufactured by Schneider electric which is the same company that manufactured the original Clipsal outlets there also polycarbonate 

& 

I've added an accompanied Lissie phone holder ledge to the top socket. 

• Dado Trunking: Click Here

• Single Socket Box for Dado Trunking: Click Here

• End Cap for Dado Trunking: Click Here 

• 12v USB Power Socket QC3.0 Fast Charge (Twin Pack) Click Here 

• 12v Power Cable: Click Here

• 3 Core 2.5mm Electrical Cable (Per Metre) Click Here

• Schneider Electric Lissie white Polycarbonate Single Socket Click Here

• Schneider Electric Lissie white Phone Holder for  Single Socket Click Here

3D PVC Wall cladding

With the kitchen area now becoming a more defined area thanks to the fitment of the dado trunking; 

We decided to fit some 3D PVC wall cladding, 

which worked out very cheap less than 40 euro including adhesive, 

We first gave the area a light sanding followed by wiping it down with degreaser 

Using pieces of paper card from the local pound shop & some masking tape; 

We made some templates to mark out the area,

We sat the template on top of the PVC panel taping it to the edges; 

Followed by cutting away the excess areas using a Stanley blade. 

The 3D effect in these panels is pretty good & looks almost like tiles from a short distance, 

First panel trial fitted but nothing bonded just yet; waiting to get every panel matched up correctly prior to finally bonding to the wall, 

Replaced the existing halogen under cabinet lights with dimmable LED which really add to the effect of the 3D cladding too, 

Removal of the top section of the blind turns out to be impossible without removing the kitchen cabinets, the screws securing the blind in place are positioned at a 45° degree angle with the kitchen units disabling free access, 

However with considerable time; we managed to work around it & got the PVC to slide in between the casing of the blind & the wall for a seamless finish,

It overlaps & joins on the grout area very well, 

Second joint not noticeable there either 

Gorilla Glue applied & there on now on there for good, 

Masked up the area where the counter meets the PVC panels; 

Prior to applying a bead of white silicone sealant, 

spraying it with a mist of water & smoothing it off using wooden lollipop sticks, 

Delighted with the end results & the lissie sockets fitted too, 

it only took three PVC panels to complete the area; with quite a bit of excess left over, 

Before & After 

• 3D PVC Wall Cladding Panels: Click Here 

• Gorilla Grab Adhesive Click Here 

Additional 240V Kitchen Socket

We decided to add an additional socket to the right side of the kitchen; 

Ideally fitting two single white lissie sockets the same as the ones which we previously fitted in to the Dado trunking on the left side, 

One factor which was proving somewhat difficult to overcome; 

was sourcing a wooden panel to match the rest of the kitchen, 

Having thought about it for a week; 

I decided to check the depth of the panel which is fitted beneath the sofa, 

Turns out that it is exactly the same depth as the panel used in the kitchen 12mm, 

We then went to our local DIY store & purchased a sheet of 12mm MDF 

To create a replacement panel for the one which was beneath the sofa, 

Sat the original panel on top of the new sheet of MDF, marked around the edge with a pencil; 

And using a Jig-Saw cut along the line to create an identical replacement. 

Which fits perfectly; 

It's exactly the same depth as the original & same material minus the laminate finish. 

We then removed the original socket & panel from the kitchen; 

Armed with the original kitchen panel & original panel from beneath the sofa; 

We set about creating a replacement kitchen panel to house two white lissie sockets. 

Marked up the panel from beneath the sofa; prior to cutting with Jig-saw 

Trial fit prior to marking it out for the sockets, 

Original Panel & the new Replacement 

I've used two dado trunking back boxes which vie bonded to the rear of the panel using Gorilla glue; 

In order to ascertain a flush finish between the domestic socket & the wooden panel with zero gap or lip from the back boxes.

Using a small length of 3 core 2.5mm electrical cable; 

I've daisy chained the sockets while using both parts of the original wiring to retain the factory fit without any joints,

Finished results; 

In our opinion these white polycarbonate lissie sockets look much cleaner than the original beige Clipsal; 

Both manufactured by Schneider-Electric, 

The Clipsal range has since been discontinued with the lissie range taking its place. 

12V Fridge Fan Kit

These 3-way fridges fitted in the touring caravans are capable of reducing the temperature by a maximum of 20°C below the ambient Temperature when operating on Gas or 240V Mains supply;

meaning if its 26°C outside then the lowest temperature which the fridge can achieve when operating is +6°C

Operating on gas runs cooler as the flow of exhaust gases assists with the expelling of heat so the fridge could get to an average +2°C

However; 

we will be mainly operating on electric, 

as result adding a fan kit will really assist to keep the fridge operating more efficiently throughout the Summer months.

I've done a bit of research on the various options and found that; Dometic do manufacture & supply a single fan fridge kit 

Part: 241298502 

which retails at £115.00

Thetford also stock a kit which is almost identical to the Dometic 

Part: 630543

which retails at £75.00

Both the Dometic & The Thetford 12V fan kits operate @ 1.8Watt

the fan size is a single 120mm fan with a fixed operating speed of 1200RPM 

The Dometic & Thetford fan kits both fit horizontally to the rear body of the fridge;

There it takes in air from below and sends it towards the top 

the fan on both of those kits; are capable of moving 62 Cubic Feet of Air per minute per square foot of space at fixed full RPM 

Noise 30Db which is similar to the noise of a whisper; 

Both the Dometic & Thetford kits are activated by a thermostatic switch 

Which attaches to the pipe exiting the right side of the large aluminium heat sink 

which then activates power to the fan when the temperature exceeds 20°C

Increasing the volume of ambient air being drawn in from the lower LS200 vent 

& 

Forcing an increased volume of warm air out via the LS100 top vent, 

However there is a better option from a company called Titan, 

Titan manufacture a broad range of 12V fridge fan kits which are each specifically designed to suit the fridge vent 

which in my opinion; is a much better placement location before even getting in to the specifications of the item; purely because the hot air which the fan is blowing out; is being sent directly to the atmosphere rather than to the upper area next to the top vent, 

The Titan TTC-SC22 kit is 12V operating @5.7Watt 

it consists of 2x90mm fan's

both operating at a variable speed of 200-2,600RPM depending on the temperature,

Capable of moving 106 Cubic Feet of air per minute per square foot of space at full RPM which is 40% more than the Dometic & its much less likely to recirculate the same air twice as its placement is directly on the vent, 

Noise Level is 5-28Db which is similar to the rustling of leaves to a whisper.

• Titan-IP55 Waterproof 90mm Fridge Fan Kit TTC-SC22 for LS100 :Click Here 

The Titan kit comes with some aluminium brackets which are designed to grip on to the fins of the top fridge vent, 

pulling air out via the LS100 (Top Grill) 

Purchased the Titan kit from Amazon; 

Which arrived the following day, 

however I had to wait a considerable time longer for the weather to to tolerable for fitting, 

 

Removed the Winter fridge vent covers, 

followed by the grills from the fridge vents themselves, 

 

With the fridge vent grills removed; 

I had a look inside to try identify some 12V cables which i could tap in to,

I also cleaned the area with some sanitising Dettol wipes while there, 

I couldn't diagnose which cables were 12V and considering ill be mounting the main control panel inside the caravan; 

I figured it easiest to join in to the 12v supply feeding to the USB ports in the kitchen, 

I disconnected the mains supply & 12v Leisure battery; 

Prior to removed the 240V socket and taped up the ends, 

took out the centre section of the dado trunking to allow access to the surface corresponding above the back of the fridge.

Drilled a 12mm Hole down through the kitchen worktop in to the space at the rear of the fridge as arrowed in the image above. 

Using the closest piece of cable which i had to hand which happens to be a satellite aerial cable; 

I put the end of it down through the hole and taped the ends of the fan kit loom on to it 

in order to bring the cables of the fan loom from the kitchen;

in to the space at the rear of the fridge unit. 

With the fan loom now fed through; 

I removed the satellite cable from the end and put it back in storage,

Proceeding with attaching the fans to the LS100 top grill 

The fans are very well attached; 4 steel clips on each corner hook in to the fins of the LS100 vent grill 

Barely visible from the outside 

The next stage of the process then; was to mount the control panel on to the dado trunking; i chose to position it above the USB ports, 

Fitted the loom to the fans and set the grill back in place,

 I temporarily connected the Leisure battery to confirm everything was operating as it should; 

Here's a short video of how that went, those fans are moving a considerable amount of air at full setting; 

The noise can be heard slightly inside the van when at full 2,600RPM 

However at that point their was still an open hole between the kitchen surface & the rear of the fridge.

Fitted the control panel in to its final resting place;

Followed by filling the hole surrounding the loom with some bathroom silicone,

Fitted the bottom 240V socket back in to place; and admired the finished results, 

Pressing the "AUTO" button Once; 

Illuminates a RED LED and the system will monitor the ambient temperature at the rear of the fridge;

engaging the fans at variable speeds

when the ambient air temperature rises above 20°C  

Pressing the "AUTO" button twice; 

switches the fan off completely where their will be no LED illumination, 

Pressing the "Manual" button Once; 

Illuminates a Blue LED 

Where you can then increase or decrease fan speed using the " + & - " buttons where the number of blue LED's illuminate to indicate the current speed in increments of 433 RPM per LED.  

Below is a recommendation list from Titan 

which I felt is worth adding to the blog, 

It lists the various grill types & sizes followed by the kit which they recommend for each specific grill. 

• Titan-IP55 Waterproof 90mm Fridge Fan Kit TTC-SC22 for LS100 :Click Here

Kitchen Roll Holder

While planning things out to make the holiday experience as convenient & comfortable as possible; 

I went on the search for a nice kitchen roll holder which would mount beneath the cabinet without obstructing the kettle, 

found this one on Amazon, 

• Stainless Kitchen Roll Holder: Click Here

Bin Storage

Picked up a small waste bin for the kitchen area; added some fun to it with a decal from Ali-Express 

• Bin: Click Here

• Decal: Click Here

Oval Cabinet Light Upgrade

Next up then is the florescent Cabinet Light's there not as bright as modern LED, and from age the lenses have turned a smoky yellow colour, 

Replaced with dimmable 3,000 kelvin soft white LED units, 

much slimmer & better light output,

they also have a soft blue night light function & overall more efficient on power too. 

• Marvix Dimmable 6W 3K Warm White Touch LED (Per Unit) Click Here

Kitchen Downlight LED Upgrade (Dimmable)

Below the battery of the drill, in the image below, 

Is the 12v wiring for the existing pull cord switch & halogen downlights 

fitted to the kitchen cabinets on the underside of the cabinets which are both sides of the sink. 

I’ve removed the brown cover. 

followed by replacing the halogen downlight with a Marvix LED unit, 

I then drilled the existing hole from the original pull-cord switch; slightly bigger to allow fitment of a touch control dimmer switch also manufactured by Marvix. 

The way a 12v dimmer switch works; is that it takes in both positive & negative 12v supply; 

It then has a matching 12v positive & negative output which feeds into the downlights.

Having added the dimmer switch; 

This meant that for both downlights to dim simultaneously from the same switch,

A new power feed would need to be routed from the dimmer switch inside the left cabinet; to the second downlight unit fitted in the bottom of the right cabinet,

The most seamless way which I found of installing this 12v Positive & negative feed to the second downlight; 

Was to drill into the side of the left & right cabinet at the lowest possible level of the shelf which is located above the window. 

Which then takes us on to the right cabinet. 

I removed the brown cover; 

Followed by replacing the halogen downlight with a Marvix LED unit, 

The original 12v feed to this downlight is now redundant;

As result; I've insulated the ends with some PVC electrical tape. 

As saw in the image above👆

The newly run 12v supply feeding from the dimmer is coming in through the side of the right cabinet and directly in to the newly installed 12v LED Marvix downlight.

These downlights are available in both 3500k soft white & a more clinical 6500K daylight option,

Personally we went for the soft white for a warm majestic feel, 

We will have 6500k daylight LED fitted to the main ceiling light further on in the blog which is ideal for when performing tasks such as cooking, 

Where with these downlights; we felt they were best suited to the soft light for decoration. 

With everything wired up and functioning as expected.

I applied a small bead of brown silicone to the edge of the brown plastic cable cover & sat the drill on top to apply a small bit of pressure to assist in bonding to the surface.

Again, repeating the process on the right cabinet; 

Applying a small bead of brown silicone to the edge of the brown plastic cable cover & sat the drill on top to apply a small bit of pressure to assist in bonding to the surface. 

Finally, then to keep the newly routed 12v feed from moving around on the shelf above the sink.

I applied a bead of brown silicone to the inside lip edge of the shelf and sat the cable in to the wet silicone as well as sealing up the excess space in the newly drilled holes.

Followed by smoothing over with fingers and leaving it time to set.

• 12v Power Cable: Click Here

• ACEGOO 12V Full Aluminium Campervan Recessed LED Lights, 3W 3200K Dimmable Click Here

• ACEGOO 19mm DC 12V recessed Mount Stainless Push Button Dimmer Switch Click Here 

Ceiling Light LED Upgrade

The images below; 

Are the original Florescent ceiling lights fitted above the fixed bed & the vanity sink,

 

 I've carried out some searching around online to source a 12v LED replacement

Which would also cover the size of the original units to avoid any discolouration in the ceiling being visible after the upgrade,

 

I've managed to source some slim LED ceiling lights which have three colour temperatures ranging from soft 3500 kelvin to clinical 6500 kelvin at the touch of a button, 

As well as offering a range of five dimming levels on any of the colour's 

Purchased from Amazon.com where the market is primarily America; 

However everything ships from America to Europe & the beauty of it all is that these RV lights are 12v just the same as the caravan.

 

Purchased They took around a week to arrive shipped via UPS courier, 

Import tax is paid at time of purchase on Amazon.com,

I've fitted three of these MIADY units in total; two in the bedroom area & one above the sofas. 

As always in this blog; I've added a link below.

• MIADY RV LED Interior 1500 Lumen 16.5" x 6.3" : Click Here

Also fitted above the front seating area of the caravan to keep everything matching.

Ceiling Light (Kitchen)

We opted for a 6500 Kelvin LED light unit in the kitchen area, 

I assume this is a Manufacturer based in New Zealand 

manufacturing Facon Lights mate 😃

 

Plenty of light from the unit; given its small size & low price it works really well. 

• FACON 12v LED Motorhome interior light Click Here

 

Awning Light (Remote module)

 

The factory fitted awning light is a 12v JOKON LS2000 

Which is controlled via a standard domestic style switch fitted inside the door, 

 

Aside from upgrading the bulb from a G4 Halogen to a COB (Chip-On-Board) LED

Which is capable of providing four times the standard illumination with a fraction of the heat compared to standard halogen, 

We decided to make things more convenient; 

By adding a Remote control module to the existing light unit; 

Which would allow the light to be operated via a key fob, in the event that we are ever approaching the caravan in the dark,  

• Wireless Remote Control Module Kit: Click Here

 Above image shows everything which comes in the remote module kit,

Perhaps obvious to most people now however for the purpose of explaining the process;

I'll begin with explaining that this kit will only operate if it has 12v power feeding to it,

Since the power feeding to the awning light comes from the existing switch on the wall;

This module needs to be fitted to the existing cables, 

which are feeding from the existing switch to the existing awning light.

The power must remain live to the remote module; 

in order for it to be capable of operating via the remote key fob.

If the existing switch feeding power to the awning light is turned off; 

The module cant receive a signal from the remote or control the light.

 The images above;

Are the back of the existing light switch where we can see 12v positive

feeding in to & out of both switches, 

one of those is the kitchen ceiling light 

& 

The other one is the outside awning light.

 I've marked the rear panel of the switch housing & fitted a 12v rocker switch,

Then removed the original twin switch plate & replaced it with a beige Clipsal single switch to control the kitchen light, 

  

 

Crimped Insulated Female spade connectors to the 12v Positive feed in & out of the rocker switch,

 

New switch layout looks cleaner & guarantees no error in switching off the awning light 

 

Moving on to the awning light unit now; removed it from the wall to access both positive & negative feed on the 12v supply feeding to it,

A Slight observation during the upgrade process; 

There looks to be a lot of dirt between the outer lens & the shroud;

However;

I'm unsure as to how to gain access to that area for cleaning,

it looks as though there are secondary screws within the 6mm channels for the housing, 

definitely something I will address at a later date.

Image above is a closer view of the remote module; 

very simple two in & two out wiring setup, 

Changed out the original 12v G4 Halogen for 12v LED 

I've applied some masking tape to the side of the housing prior to marking it out & cutting out a small section to allow the cables to pass through to the module without any impact.

Above & below here; the original positive & negative 12v has been extended; 

Where it now feeds directly in to the new module, 

 The Positive & Negative 12v feed then exits the module in to the light hosing,

 

 

 Fitting has worked out pretty tidy; if I do say so myself, 

Having changed the Halogen to LED there's a lot less heat being generated within the housing; 

As result I've decided to add some aluminium foil tape to the back panel of the light unit to assist in reflecting more light through the outer lens, 

As saw reflecting on the wall of the caravan in the image below; 

It's catching & reflecting more light than it previously was.

 

• 2" Aluminium Foil Tape: Click Here

• Wireless Remote Control Module Kit: Click Here

Wine Cabinet And Wardrobe Lighting

Temporarily removed the wine rack brackets & gave them a polish using some chrome polish which adds some lustre  

• First Aid Kit: Click Here

Got them shining then with some USB rechargeable LED sensor cabinet lights, 

 I had initially purchased these battery powered rechargeable Sensor lights, 

for use in a domestic wardrobe at home & later got the idea to fit them inside the wardrobe and wine cabinet of the caravan.

They have a really good lifespan between charges and work well. 

Very easy to fit; provided with sticky back high strength magnets.

They turn on automatically when they sense movement, 

Recharge via any USB-C cable.

• Motion Sensor Rechargeable Cabinet Lights Twin Pack: Click Here

12V Television Install

Next we got a great deal on a 12v Sharp 24" Smart TV in the Amazon Black Friday sales,

we decided to fit it at the foot of the fixed bed, 

on a removable TV bracket, 

Marked up the counter with a strip of masking tape to help prevent taring of the laminate finish when drilling the holes,

 

Drilled the two holes and pumped in half a tube of "Rawlplug R-KER-II Hybrid Resin" in to the cavity of the worktop; 

To prevent the two outer panel sections from squeezing in when the bolts are secured as well as broaden the grip surface within the worktop as much as possible. 

 Fitted the Cup head dome neck M5 carriage bolts & left it for 24 hours

Before tightening down the Penny washers & nuts to allow the resin sufficient time to set around the bolts & within the cavity space.

 Its a nice size of television for the space,

Has a great range of apps & functions on 12v supply; it feels a lot more like home, 

I'll be adding a Fire TV stick when were on the move.

 The power cable; exiting out through the side of the cabinet above; bugged me a bit,

I don't like to see cables on show if they don't need to be, 

So I purchased some half inch rubber grommets on Amazon, 

drilled a hole in the base of the unit above the television using a cone bit and fitted the grommet; 

routing the power cable down through it, rather than the way it was. 

• SHARP 24" Smart LED TV 12V/24V Click Here

• 12v socket 2 Pin Plug Adaptor : Click Here 

• Vision Plus Short Arm Quick Release TV Bracket Click Here

• 19mm Rubber cable grommet : Click Here  

• M5 x 20mm Cup Head Square neck Carriage Bolts Click Here

• M5 x 20mm Penny Washers Click Here

• M5 Hexagonal Nuts Click Here

Dishwasher Install

 

Having saw these 4 place Low Wattage; Counter top dishwashers available on Amazon; We measured up a space and decided to give it a purchase, 

It's a tidy fit, takes the regular dishwasher salt & tablets; has a number of cleaning cycle options including 82°c Hygienic Wash cycle,

 Plenty of space inside for large plates as well as other items,

The Dishwasher can be plumbed in to a water supply for greater convenience; 

However the opening in the top; Feeds to an internal tank which requires 7 litres of water to be poured in prior to it allowing operation. 

The final requirement then was the drain, 

it could be plumbed in to the drain beneath the vanity sink; 

however we will be storing it on the floor when moving,

So we decided to purchase a 10Ltr high density polyethylene (HDPE) drum from Halfords which has a breather vent, 

Using it as a drain tank for the dishwasher.

 To avoid any unwanted spills; 

I've fed the hose of the drain pipe down through the goose neck pipe of the jerry can, 

It's a tight fit and ensures the drain hose wont ever be likely to pop off the tank when decanting from the dishwasher, 

Insuring the vent valve on the jerry can remains open to equalise pressure inside of the container as well as vent to prevent vacuum build up as the waste from the dishwasher cools down. 

 The tank can easily be poured in to the grey waste tank when pitched. 

• Dishwasher: Click Here

• Drain Tank: Click Here

Picture Frames

 

In an effort to add a bit more personality to the interior & make it feel a bit more cosy;

We decided to fit some picture frames from ikea using high strength magnets to keep them positioned in place,

The images were purchased to size from Poster lounge. 

• No link for this frame as unfortunately it has been discontinued at Ikea,

• KNOPPÄNG PICTURE FRAME 21X30CM : Click Here   

• Neodymium Bar Magnets with Double-Sided Adhesive: Click Here 

The Picture frames were also ideal for covering over some holes which had been made in the side of the kitchen panel next to the main door by previous owners, 

• KNOPPÄNG PICTURE FRAME 13X18CM : CLICK HERE
• Neodymium Bar Magnets with Double-Sided Adhesive: Click Here

IKEA Storage Solutions to fit the spaces

Measured up to various compartment spaces within the caravan and logged on to IKEA;

To source some storage solutions to fit the various spaces making them more user friendly, 

 The first solution was fitting some mesh baskets under the bed; 

Trial fitted before measuring up & building a pine frame to house the three baskets raised up from the floor to allow air circulation.

 Lifted Mattress, unscrewed the bed frame to allow full access to the area, 

• 10M Therma Wrap roll: Click Here

 We applied some thermal wrap to this area using aluminium tape to keep it secured in place prior to lifting in the frame,

 

Frame now in place; 

We secured it to the surrounding existing structure; resulting in a tight snug fit with zero movement, 

 

Secured the bed frame back in to place an refitted mattress,

The space has become a lot more user friendly as well as adding greater stability to the rear end of the caravan by further bracing everything together at low level.  

• KOMPLEMENT Mesh Basket (Dark Grey) : Click Here

Wardrobe floor storage

The next addition to the caravan was very cheap from ikea; 

we first removed the floor of the wardrobe space & doubled the thickness using another sheet of plywood 

followed by drilling four holes & bolting down the base of an Ikea peg board, 

We then applied a layer of the Therma wrap to the area beneath with aluminium tape to secure around the edges, 

Refitted the wardrobe floor & secured with slightly longer screws to allow for the deeper base which has eliminated flexing as it is now going to bare some weight. 

The peg board from ikea is ideal for storing the vacuum cleaner, air-fryer, coffee machine, kettle & saucepans when traveling with zero movement, 

Added bonus that this area happens to be around the main axle of the caravan too. 

• UPPDATERA Peg Board Organiser: Click Here

• WORX 18v Cordless Vacuum Cleaner with Battery Pack & Charger: Click Here

• SALTER 2L Compact Air Fryer: Click Here

• Kitchen Academy 8 Piece Granite Coated Pots & Pans set : Click Here

• De'Longhi Nescafe Dolce Gusto Mini: Click Here

 Bedroom Cabinet Storage 

Material storage compartments have worked out really well in the bedroom & vanity areas,

They are light weight which is ideal for high level areas as well as assisting in keeping things categorised when pitched. 

Shallow material storage compartments fitted in the back cabinets,

& 

Deeper material storage compartments fitted in the side cabinets,

• STUK Fabric Storage Compartment (low Height) : Click Here

 

• STUK Fabric Storage Compartment (Tall Height) : Click Here

 

Smaller material storage compartments fitted in the vanity area next to the shower & toilet room.

• SKUBB Compartment inserts Click Here

 

Replacement Toothbrush Glass

Since purchase of the Avondale; 

I've been searching for a glass to fit the original ring toothbrush holder next to the vanity sink, 

Found this 6 pack of tumbler glasses in ikea for a mere £1.50 
decided to give them a try as the shape looked very similar to a toothbrush glass, 

A perfect fit and five left to keep as spares, 

We have increased the worktop space by adding a large bamboo 56x43cm chopping board from IKEA which fits nicely on top of the glass of the cooker, 

• IKEA REKO 17CL Drinking Glass (6 Pack) : Click Here

 

Kitchen And living room storage

 

 We have increased the worktop space by adding a large bamboo 56x43cm chopping board from IKEA which fits nicely on top of the glass of the cooker, 

• LÄMPLIG Bamboo 53x46cm Chopping Board Click Here

Moving on from the worktop then;

We decide to opt for some plastic compartments from ikea for use in the kitchen areas; which can be easily taken out an cleaned,

A bonus that they were available in beige colour; 

With a little measuring & research on ikea's size variations available, 

It has worked out really well in creating a lot of usable space.

Picked up some light weight rubber door stops from Amazon; 

fitted to the end of the cabinets on both sides of the caravan; 

above the sofas where the cabinets taper towards the front of the caravan;

preventing these storage compartments from moving around during commutes. 

Tidy fitment, usable storage space which doesn't move and cost next to nothing 👌

 Repeated the process on the opposite side of the caravan,

• Rubber Stoppers 2 x per pack: Click Here

• Large NOJIG Storage Tubs: Click Here

• Small NOJIG Storage Tubs: Click Here

 

Ikea Fabric drawer compartments have worked out a treat fitted inside the drawer between the sofas at the front end of the caravan. 

• UPPDATERA Drawer storage inserts: Click Here

 

A bit of trimming involved in getting the cutlery drawer insert from ikea to fit; 

Added some high strength magnets to the base of it between the drawer & insert to prevent cutlery from rolling around during commutes. 

• STÖDJA UTENSIL TRAY DRAWER INSERT: CLICK HERE

Single compartment insert fitted to the drawer above the heater;

Ideal for storing USB cables & such small items.

  

• SKUBB Grey Fabric Drawer Insert: Click Here 

Two artificial plants added to the percolate held in to position using some high strength magnets,  

Making the area fell a bit more natural & cosy.

• FEJKA Artificial Potted Plant: Click Here

Finally On The Road

Approximately 9 Months after purchase we finally finished our home from home; 

Packed with its own appliances, bedding & accessories 

We just packed our clothes in to some vacuum bags, 

Placed them in the boot of the car & off we went. 

 Prior to setting off;

There's a lot of work in finding a place for some things and at the same time balancing out the weight, 

The maximum nose weight depends on the vehicle which is towing your caravan; 

in our case the maximum nose weight is 100kg 

We loaded the caravan in a way which seemed logical to us, used some cargo bars between the sofas to trap items in between without movement,

• Telescopic Cargo Bars (Pair): Click Here

 

 As well as putting the heavier items above the axle; 

we then used a Milenco calibrated nose weight Gauge Click Here to check our nose weight was less than our maximum allowance of 100kg 

luckily it came in at 78kg 

which worked out really well; otherwise we would of had to move some things around a bit, but now we have found a place for everything; we wont need to check the nose weight again unless we add something else to the caravan.

We then hitched up the caravan & fitted our Milenco Falcon Wing Mirror extensions Click Here before making our way down the road,

The first stop was 3 Miles down the road to our local tire specialist where we had the original & I mean authentically original 19 year old 14" tires replaced with some new Commercial ones.

Tires replaced & its towing a whole lot smoother as well as being road compliant 

Air Awning

The day before we set off on our first journey; 

We measured up the rail on the side of the Caravan 

Then went to our local caravan & camping supplies shop;

To purchase a Vango Balletto Air Elements Pro Shield 390 Awning, 

 

It comes with a floor carpet which is sort of wicker & a 12v Pump, 

being the elements pro model its 40% thicker than a standard awning it also comes with curtains & a moisture trap roof lining as standard, 

Optional extras; 

• zip in Mosquito nets to replace the window panels 
• full height bedroom annex 

I couldn't stretch the budget to get a Vango Balletto Elements Pro Shield bedroom annex at this time,

so we purchased a Vango BR003 internal pop up bedroom
which is basically a black single layer pop up tent which you sit inside the awning to create a private space, 

its big enough to take a double inflatable mattress & served us well for the week away,

So here we are with the Vango Balletto Elements Pro Shield 390 Awning in place; it only took us 20 minutes to get it out and in place, 

We haven't quite figured out exactly how to get the sides of the awning to seal on to the side of the caravan but given that the temperature outside at the time was between 24-28°C this wasn't an issue; 

However we will investigate the process and get it right next time,

 There is plenty of space inside the Vango 390 awning;

As saw in the images there's adequate space for a 6 place table with two 3 seater benches,

behind this then is the Vango internal pop up bedroom which is surrounding an inflatable double mattress with around a further foot of space inside of the pop up bedroom, 

Having the awning along with the 6 place table has really helped to bring everyone together;

The awning has also made the process of cooking a lot more enjoyable as well as freeing up the sofa's

Then at night its been great to put the kids to bed on the sofa's 

While the adults get to have some unwind time in the awning as well as having the chats with some new friends 

While the kids are safely sleeping inside the caravan.

Awning Annex/Bedroom 

  

 Vango Elements ProShield Tall Awning Annex/Bedroom

Adding a matching annex to the existing Vango Balletto Air Elements Pro Shield Awning; followed by making it in to a bedroom to maximize the use of the awning. 

Purchase the annex during the winter months at a discounted price; 

finally got the weather to try it out and it didn't disappoint It comes complete with a bedroom insert;

Which has a fly screen & a full white material door which matches the existing curtains on the awning.  

The annex unit; 

zips in to the awning instead of a door; 

one single arch beam to inflate; followed by pegging down the bedroom insert & the the exterior storm straps. 

The interior is completely blacked out with two air vent flaps on the top sides;
and a stitched in waterproof ground sheet, 

We added a Vango CP013 Universal carpet to the floor of the bedroom space measuring 190 x 250cm 

The carpet protects the ground sheet & provides a bit more comfort under foot as well as greater insulation. 

As you can see in the image above;

There is plenty of space for a 190 x 70 cm Camping bed; 

We added a RedCamp XL Mattress which straps on to the camping bed providing 2" Inches of soft memory foam comfort, 

I've also run in 240v travel socket linked to the exterior socket outlet on the side of the Caravan;

Providing some USB 3.0 Ports & a 240v socket for a 500w Oil filled radiator 
And a 10.0Tog Vango Radiate single sleeping bag;

Which also has a built in element which is powered via USB to provide an option of 3 different levels of heat 

• Vango Elements ProShield Tall Awning Annex/Bedroom: Click Here

• Tubular Camping Bed 190cm x 70cm : Click Here

• RedCamp XL Mattress for Camp Bed: Click Here

• Vango CP013 Universal carpet : Click Here

• Vango Radiate 10.0Tog Heated Sleeping Bag (Single): Click Here

• 5 Metre Extension Cable: Click Here

• Travel Socket 240V with USB Port: Click Here   

• 500w/0.5KW Oil filled Radiator: Click Here 

Vango Awning Side Canopy

 

While browsing on my local camping supplies shop website; 

I discovered this Vango sun canopy which is compatible with a number of Vango caravan awnings, 

The side canopy comes complete with two poles, two awning rail stoppers & a range of straps & hooks to attach some lanterns or lights if desired, 

Its fairly sturdy when secured & feels cosy sitting inside, it also provides greater dimension to the awning, 

The side flap section can be doubled up on to the top; 

to expose the entire front space while providing shade from the sun, 

or 

lowered down along the side as saw in the images; 

which provides some privacy & greater shelter from the sun. 

• Vango Caravan Awning Side Canopy: Click Here  

 

• Vango Caravan Awning Front Canopy: Click Here  

Motor Mover Install

 

Having returned from the first week away in the Touring Caravan;

We found the process of getting it both in & out of the driveway a bit of a very stressful task, 

It took me almost three hours to get the thing out of the driveway & only 2 hours to reach our holiday destination, 
as result of this; 

I arranged to have a; Power Touch Evolution Automatic Motor mover fitted, 

Automatic in the sense that it engages & disengages the motors to/from the wheels via the remote 

as well as the regular movements one would expect from a motor mover system. 

This particular model is said to be the strongest single axle kit on the market; 
Capable of moving up to 2,800kg 

Which is more than twice the weight of our Avondale at a maximum speed of 10kmh & comes with a 5 year warranty. 

 Images above & below; 

Show the automatic motor mover fitted in front of both the left & right wheel of the touring caravan; Pressing two buttons simultaneously on the supplied remote causes the toothed wheels to protrude on to the tires;

Where the toothed wheels of the motor mover then rotate the tires; 

Behind the Main electric hook up to the touring caravan is a kill switch socket which powers the motor mover from the battery;

It is fitted directly behind the EHU connection by design to prevent the motor mover being used while the Caravan is connected to mains supply,

As the motor movers are designed to function from the 12v Leisure battery;

a minimum of 100Ah 12v Supply is required.

Image below shows the remote for the motor mover;

The base of the remote displays an aerial image of the touring caravan with the various direction control buttons above, 

makes it very easy to understand the direction.

   

 Below is a short video of just how easy it is to pitch up on site;

 

Security Items for Winter Storage

Although the caravan is stored on the driveway & monitored by CCTV; 

For some additional peace of mind during storage; 

We decided to fit some additional security items in the form of a very strong hitch lock, 

Which can also be taken with us while touring and attached while towing too, 

Some additional specifications on the box which I thought id share in image below:

 In the image below you can see it fits very well with zero movement. 

 Also fitted a wheel clamp;

Which is a snug fit between the wheel & the motor mover; 

It works very well and prevents the caravan from being moved at all while in storage. 

• Maypole 13"-17" Universal Wheel Clamp With Lock: Click Here 

• Maypole Strong Hold Hitch Lock: Click Here

 

Motor Mover Storage Protection

We decided to fit some waterproof breathable covers to the motor movers; 

Although the system comes with a 5 year extended manufacturer warranty, 

We would still like to protect its appearance from the elements to prevent rust or fading, 

Found these really well manufactured motor mover covers on Amazon they cover the entire unit and come as a set with one cover for each Motor,

followed by tying the draw string on the protective cover,

They fit perfectly around the Powertouch motor mover;

although I had expected to be able to tow with them fitted, 

They do sit very close to the wheels, 

As result they are only of use for winter storage and for that purpose they also help to keep the motor mover hidden from view and protected from the elements. 

• Motor Mover Covers: Click Here

Vango Havana Air Sofa

Decided to try out one of these new Vango Havana air sofa's 

having saw some reviews online and they don't disappoint;

As one would expect from Vango;

they come with their own labelled waterproof draw string bag,
they also have two separate inflation points;

one for the base & a separate inflation point for the back & arms, so you can have it as hard or as soft as you like, 

matches in well with the awning and seats two adults very comfortably; 

• Vango Havana Air Sofa: Click Here

Fully Serviced Pitch Accessories 

(Making the most use of a fully serviced pitch)

First time staying on a fully serviced pitch; 

The benefits of such; are having your own tap supplying fresh water, 

your own grey waste drain and in some cases your own satellite feed. 

In preparation for our stay on a fully serviced pitch then; 

We gathered a few items which make life a little easier; 

especially if their are more than two people staying. 

The item in the image above; 

 is a float valve or ball cock system manufactured by Penny Leisure Supplies;

Which is designed to fit in to the side of the Aqua roll. 

The item in the image above; is 10 metres of food grade fresh water supply hose; 

It is used to link the tap on the pitch; to the self fill float valve fitted to the side cap of the aqua roll

Which results in the aqua roll automatically maintaining a set level estimated 22Ltrs of water at all times without ever having to fill it yourself. 

In order for the ball cock float valve to operate correctly; 

it most be positioned the correct way up as shown in the images below, 

You can see the float valve position by looking through the top opening of the aqua roll.

The second benefit of a fully serviced pitch; 

Is having a dedicated grey waste drain,

Where their is no need to use the waste master tank; 

you can direct the drains from the caravan outlets; 

directly in to the grey waste suear, 

 Storage of the self fill ball cock valve ?

To keep the self fill valve from dirt & prevent damage while touring;

I've fitted it in to the top opening of the aqua roll tank while leaving the side cap of the aqua roll tank open to allow ventilation,

This Ducks Back;

AquaRoll storage bag has proven to be very useful; 

As its capable of storing the aqua roll pull bars as well as the 10 meter food grade hose; 

While also having the self fill valve fitted securely inside the aqua roll all free from dirt, damage & all in one location. 

• 40Ltr Aqua roll: Click Here

• Ducks Back Aqua Roll storage bag: Click Here

• Autofill float valve (ball Cock) for Aqua Roll: Click Here

• 10 Metre Food Grade Hose: Click Here

• Waste Pipe Outlet with 4Metre Hose: Click Here

 

Mesh Barbeque Table

 

 Purchased this 5.0kg mesh folding table from amazon; Click Here

However; 

if your prepared to wait 3-4 weeks they can be obtained from Ali-Express for half the cost Amazon are selling them for; 

Here's a very similar model found on Ali-Express Click Here

Also comes with this tidy storage bag;

 

The legs can be extended to two different levels as saw in the images below;

There are also side tables fitted on both sides of this unit;

Which fold upwards to provide some additional surface area;

The mesh is ideal for use with disposable foil Barbeque trays;

The mesh surface is fireproof meaning you can set a foil BBQ directly on top without damaging the table or marking the ground on site;  

The table keeps it at a more convenient height with plenty of space to arrange the food. 

Following the use of the BBQ tray; 
the table does become a bit greasy from splashes & charcoal fragments; 
rather than contaminating the bag;  

Which could be washed at low temperature in the washing machine; 
I put two 60Ltr bin liners over the table; prior to retuning it to the storage bag, 

When we got home from our trip away; 
I took out the top drawer of the domestic dishwasher and sat the mesh table in to the dishwasher;
it came out grease free and ready for use again; 
excellent accessory 👌

• 60cm x 90cm Mesh Folding Barbeque Table :Click Here

👇

Last Updated 02nd August 25

 

👀 Future Plans ?👀

 Future plans aren't much really; 

a lot has been done this year and it has all come together very well,

The only plans for the moment; are to measure up both of the existing Remis Remitop Vario II celling sky light window blinds & surround in order to source some replacement blind & surrounds from a manufacturer called MPK 
as the existing ones particularly the bedroom unit are really beginning to show some age.  

replacing with some nice white surrounds would really complete the interior eliminating almost all signs of age.

If you have gotten this far through the Thread; Thanks for reading,

I hope that you  have found some of this information helpful & if you would like to support the progress;

Please click the link below to contribute to a Pint.

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