G'day all:
I am in the market for a new caravan around 15'-6" plus boot - so about 17' long. I have some limitations regards overall height, so have been discussing options for single axle vs tandem axle with manufacturers, and I'm getting conflicting information - what's new?
Nominal tare weight will be around 1300 - 1400 depending on manufacturer, but I want enough 'leeway' in the axle/spring loadings to allow for water, food, clothes, battery/solar etc without exceeding or approaching the AGM/GVM/whatever.
If I had enough height to spare, I would go for single axle of 1850kg or thereabouts and 16" wheels identical to 4WD, but van wont fit under the carport in that configuration (unless I modify the carport).
One manufacturer said I need to go to tandem axle and 14" LT tyres - no problem, he says.
Next guy says you can't fit dual axles under a 15'-6" van - not enough chassis to do it, and it would be very 'bouncy' if I tried. He wants to use 1850kg axle and 14" LT tyres. I asked what 14" tyres will safely take the weight (900kg plus) and he moved on to the next topic!
I've searched some web sites for tyre data, but so far have not found a suitable 14" LT - and I want something that is readily available around Oz!
I am also a little concerned about 10" (electric) brakes on a single axle, pulling up 1800 kgs of van.
I will be taking my question to other dealers / manufacturers, but I would greatly appreciate any accurate info from the
forum re the following:
* Can dual axles fit under a 15'-6" body 'van (17'-0" overall body incl boot)?
[If any of you have such a 'van, I appreciate a Make / Model.]
* What 14" LT tyres are readily available to take 900+ kgs (load rating would be greater than 100)
* What is the feeling regards the single 10" brakes?
* any other comments appreciated.
thanks,
glids