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mmi1
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ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #1
Well, we found a motohome which fits our needs and at the right price. We are getting it checked out tomorrow. My only concern is that its a bit shaky - mind you we did drive it on back roads. Its 1998 6 berth Ford. Is this common in motorhomes of that vintage? Same owner for the past 10 years. Also do you need airconditioning in south of France? Is it expensive to install same? All comments and advice greatly appreciated.
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #2
Congrats Maura!!

Hopefully all goes well for you!!
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #3
Well done finding something to suit your needs.

I cannot help with your question about how it drives but it sounds a little strange.

As for Aircon, it can be expensive to buy and install. It requires electric hook up on sites to run it so no Aires or wild camping.
We have been in the south of France and would have enjoyed Aircon but survived without it.

Personally I would put the additional expense into the purchase of the vehicle and forget about Aircon.
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Thanks

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #4
Thank you for replies. Well, what I found is that our kids read happily in our 7 seater wherever we go but they found it a bit less comfortable to do so in the motorhome. Not as well sprung I suppose? Yes think we can do without AC. Any idea on where to get extra seatbelts fitted? Thanks again.
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #5
When you say "shaky" what do you mean?

Is it a bouncy ride? swaying left to right? Rough on the road?
mmi1
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #6
Bouncy I would say. Is it supposed to feel as smooth as driving a car? It reminds me of our old school bus!. It was ok in the front but not as comfortable in the back.Maura
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #7
The Ford Motorhome is on leaf springs on the rear suspension if my memory serves me right so that would be the cause for the bumpy ride in the back .
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #8
In post no 4 you mentioned seatbelts, If there are no belts in the rear I doubt if any can be fitted. The supports must go to the chassis, not easy done. Have you forward facing seats in the rear????? if so why are belts not already fitted.
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #9
I don't wish to rain on your parade but in some older layouts there are problems with fitting extra seat belts. For example most installers will not fit side facing seat belts because legislation states that all passengers must be carried on forward facing seats. A lot of people have run into the problem with larger older multi berth MH's because although it is not illegal to carry passengers in side ways seats because of the age of the vehicle, it is under other legislation dangerous to carry unsupported loads and to hazard the safety of anyone in the vehicle, so you lose out to this legislation for insurance and also run the risk of prosecution if you do.

So many older MH's can only carry (in motion) 2 or 3 passengers on forward facing seats suitably belted reducing the use but can still sleep maybe 6 people if transported seperately. Just watch this one with a big family or you might be stuck with a MH of no use to you.
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #10
Hope you get it sorted.
I have a 2004 Motorhome, but it only came with driver and front passenger seatbelts. I got 3 seatbelts fitted, but these are lap belts, and 'sideways' facing. I never feel safe with them in use- so firm up on your options re seat belts versus passenger travelling.
lot of luck
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #11
Of course I should have added it depends on which country you are in UK or Eire. Mmi1 doesn't say. :)
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #12
Quote by mmi1

Bouncy I would say. Is it supposed to feel as smooth as driving a car? It reminds me of our old school bus!. It was ok in the front but not as comfortable in the back.Maura


Quote by Michelinman

The Ford Motorhome is on leaf springs on the rear suspension if my memory serves me right so that would be the cause for the bumpy ride in the back .


If you're sitting behind the back axle, yes it'll be a bumpy ride. same as the school bus...

It'd be worthwhile to check the rear shocks are in good order and perhaps check the vehicle doesnt exceed its rated axle loading. If they're ok, you may be able to reduce the "bouncy" problem by fitting supplimental airbags to the back axle.

Our heavy wagon has leafsprings and airbags and the bags make a huge difference. With airbags at 60psi, the ride is firm and relatively smooth... Without the airbags, its a wild & bouncy ride. Having said that, I dont think I'd like to travel too far sitting at the very back of the camper... :sick:

http://www.airbagman.com.au/Li…erite.html

mmi1
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Re: ok am close to purchase

 ·  Posted: 21.01.2013  ·  #13
Thank you so much for all your helpful replies. I am from West of Ireland and you have given me food for thought. The seat belts are on the forward facing seats. There are no side seats. I was not talking about kids seating at very back of camper but in the spot that seats 4 behind the driver seats. Anyway thanks again. All the best. Maura
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