New To Motorhomes Part 1 - The Motor and Controls

[@queenwitcher6661]

Absolutely fascinating, thank you Bob.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Glad you found it so.

[@roberthattersley68]

These videos are brilliant were going to hire out a van next year then looking at getting our own. We'll carry on watching all your tutorials there great. Keep them coming

[@lisaconaghan8105]

Really useful information Bob many thanks!

[@hellymuppet]

Extremely useful as we embark on our first time hiring a motor home this week with a view to purchasing one if we like the experience !

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Good idea, see if you enjoy the experience first.

[@johnperry6293]

Iv'e had my van for 5 years, and there two or three things that I learned, many thanks.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks a lot

[@helenthomas2703]

As a new owner ,with little experience this is fantastic! Thank you so much , can’t wait for next ones 😀

[@jasondodson4200]

What a fantastic vlog, thank you once again Bob, you are a god send.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

So nice of you

[@mccartney2]

absolutely crackin video........ our Swift Bessaccar 574 hi style is almost identical...... the 4 videos together.... great source of info..thank you

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thank you, glad you found it useful

[@geoffc1385]

It might be worth mentioning that the brake fluid level is a good indicator to brake pad wear . The lower the level the more your pads are worn. It is important to check regularly as a sudden drop in level means a leak.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Good point!

[@markandtraceysmotorhomeadv2345]

Even though we have been motorhoming for 5 years this was still really interesting and informative.

[@althomas7952]

Hi Bob & Jenny, We've had 3 Ducatos but saw a good tip on your video with the diesel filler cap/ key hook on the flap. Didn't know about that & handy. Thanks.

[@simonbaxter8585]

... but too easy to drip diesel on the keys ☹

[@clarew5188]

This series of films is a great idea Bob. We're planning to get our first motorhome next year so all your advice is very welcome! I've been doing my research by catching up with all your hints and tips videos too! Many thanks again. It's so helpful 😁👍 x

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gordonmackie]

Many thanks, pick up our Kon Tiki Sport on 11 July..bought it at the Scottish Show, went on holiday and it has been in lockdown in Preston.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

That's a shame, hopefully you'll get to enjoy it soon.

[@marilyngrandi6391]

Thank you Bob, that was so interesting. We are just buying our first (secondhand) motorhome and this has really helped to lessen the overwhelming feeling of inadequacy I have right now. I shall be watching this a few times until I can grasp what everything does.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Glad it helps.

[@TravelTrollsTV]

Good choice of place to store your engine. We store ours in the spare space under the windscreen too. Saves space in the garage. :-)

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

You didn't say get a pad lock! 😬

[@busterboy7505]

Thank you very much Bob, me and my wife were thinking of getting a caravan, and have watched a lot of caravan videos, I watched a video clip of a Motorhome, now we , well I say we, I am thinking a Motorhome would be better for us, because to me once your loaded up and done a few checks your off, but if we got a caravan it would take quite a while for us to get off the drive,( with the help of a motor over) and then itch up, and then do the reverse when we get back home, and we are now in our sixty’s, so I think Motorhome would be better for us, thanks again Bob, I have now subscribed and looking forward to seeing more of your videos.👍👍

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thank you, yes set up and get going are longer with a caravan, but you get more space.

[@adrianrichards3398]

Great overview we have the Bessaccarr 574 which is 2 years old and just found your information great, like The ideas on securing the spare wheel. Keep up the interesting info.

[@hazelgalbraith2400]

Bob you are amazing thank you we get our new van tomorrow and this is going to help us not panic.❤️❤️❤️

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thank you. Don't panic!

[@richardtrainor65]

Cracking video,we get our autotrail in around 3 weeks both first timers.We have been watching you and Jenny for about a year and we gave learnt loads of useful information, cheers Bob and Jenny! Looking forward to your next video,Rich and Jan.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thank you, enjoy your new van!

[@thatafact9553]

Thanks for your informative video. One question did the weighbridge give its accuracy tolerance I have heard they can be as high as +/- 10% ?

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

No I didn't get the accuracy of the weighbridge.

[@thatafact9553]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo Thanks. Do you agree it all seems a bit vague? The manufacturer can have a +/- 5 % fudge factor on the MIRO (up to 150 kg ) You also have the accuracy tolerance of the weighing equipment and you are only looking at a payload of around 500kg ?

[@boothyblade11]

Great idea on the tyre inflator, I have used the 12v cigarette lighter type so far. But it can blow fuses.

[@gilltate3029]

On my, this info is fantastic Bob. Thank you so much x

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

You're welcome

[@gregreed402]

Thanks very much awesome, so well explained and videoed . Cheers mate from NZ

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks for watching.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching.

[@boothyblade11]

Excellent Bob really useful many thanks

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stephenponting1043]

Very good video, we have only had our van 18 months and now I know how to demist my wing mirrors, keep up the good work both

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

You can do it!

[@teresatimms1358]

We found this very informative, Bob.. Looking forward to the next one already. Thank you. 👍🏻

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@althomas7952]

Hi Bob, Enjoyed your video. For Fiat Ducato newbies really, another handy tip. The Powered steering fluid level dipstick has 2 markings, dependent on ambient air temperature. Usually the 20C mark. Al.

[@gallivantinggalantes]

That was really interesting Bob, thank you , look forward to the next video x

[@andywhorton9252]

Thanks very much for all the informative videos Bob. It as been very helpful to us as we are thinking of buying our first motorhome. Just wondering Bob what the miles per gallon are on these motorhomes. Thanks Bob

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

I get around 27.6 mpg when I'm not towing. About 25.7 when towing the car.

[@janicebradbeer9874]

Good info Bob! I would padlock that spare wheel if I was you!

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Good call!

[@davidmeadowcroft7626]

Really good video and as a relative newcomer have learnt some useful tips. Thanks

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@janhellier9466]

Thank you Bob this video has come just in time for us as we need to change the starter battery. We bought our first motorhome (used) just before lockdown and only got 5 nights away in her. Looking forward to adventures in the Autumn and Christmas in Keswick. Should be allowed to roam by then I hope.

[@rclancey]

Hi Bob - Great video as per usual. With the internal locking button (next to the demister) we have found that the doors are only locked when the button is pressed and the red light on the button is lit. I admit it's a little confusing as the red light turns itself off after a while anyway. I'd hate to think that people thought the doors were locked overnight when they weren't. All the best

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thans, yes you are right about the button, you actually have to press it twice to get it to lock..

[@mccartney2]

fab point that !!!!

[@stephenprickett7584]

Brilliant Bob, thank you. Looking forward to the rest in the series. Looks like I won’t have my MH until September, Bailey factory just returning to work so your vids are perfect for training. If you run out of material, some cooking guidance would be interesting as would what to stock the fridge/freezer and food cupboards with and essential utensils. Keep up the good work.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Neither of us are very keen cooks, that said have you seen our Ridgemonkey video? kzbin.info/www/bejne/sGe8ooFrjracaLM

[@stephenprickett7584]

Bob Earnshaw it’s on my must have list!

[@richardspeight9520]

Ridgemonkey are best. Great for lockdown BBQ , sausages without the burning We use ours at home also

[@TravellingfromScratch]

Thanks Bob. I’m following the series and learning as I go. Every days a school day as they say. You clearly know your stuff and have been doing this for a while. Thanks for sharing. Looking forward to learning from the rest of the series. Really good reminder to check the spare tyre pressure. Wouldn’t have thought of that. Slightly different system to get my spare out but I know how heavy it is after doing a video on my channel about changing the wheel. All great info as usual. 👍🏻

[@rogerlathbury9860]

Hi Bob, I noticed that you didn’t trust the pressure gauge on the tyre air pump and used a digital gauge. Also handy to check the tyre pressures without having to get the pump out. Can you please point me the right direction to source one?

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

I bought that one from Halfords, but I'm still looking for a proven accurate gauge.

[@marklittler784]

You can get caps that tell you the pressure of the tyre or caps that tell you inside the vehicle by signal their pressures too.

[@rogerlathbury9860]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo Thanks you, I'll keep looking

[@rogerlathbury9860]

@@marklittler784 thanks Mark I have seen these, but I would prefer to manually check the pressures.

[@marklittler784]

@@rogerlathbury9860 lets you know early there's a problem whilst driving, can save a tyre.

[@andrew-karens-adventures]

Very informative Bob, some great info for first timers or people thinking of buying there first motorhome, I see your same as me fuel tank full while it's cheap all ready for the off when we are allowed 👍

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks, yes it's also better to keep the tank full as there is less condesation that can form.

[@lindahiggins9295]

Thank you for a very informative video, look forward to watching the rest . Take care of yourselves and stay safe. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thank you! Will do!

[@startaylor123]

Bob, Fiat had told me that the Service light limited mode is not true so full engine performance remains...👌

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

I understood it happens after a certain time, think it might have been 500 miles, not straightaway.

[@startaylor123]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo I use local courier who run 3 67 reg ducato's with over 150k miles and they never see a fiat dealership for service. They have very recently learnt the reset service procedure.👌

[@weebolddavy]

Many thanks Bob, that was very comprehensive and the video lasted longer than our handover when we picked up our new (first ever) van. Everything you showed in the cab is identical to the Peugeot Boxer. The owners manual is very poor compared with the one I have for my Peugeot car which I find very disappointing considering the cost of the vehicle.

[@NigelDrayton-zb2mq]

The ETRTO, tyre manufacturers and TyreSafe recommend that rear CP tyres on single rear axles are always inflated to their maximum permitted pressure of 80 psi (5.5 bar) regardless of load.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Yes I know, but it feels way too high so I've settled on 72-75 psi for the rears.

[@NigelDrayton-zb2mq]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo Out of interest, what are your plated tyre pressures and do you have a TPMS that doesn't allow you to go much below these pressures especially at the front?

[@simonbaxter8585]

@@NigelDrayton-zb2mq I use TyrePal. I was surprised how much the pressures change with temperature, even just standing in the sun. I now try and check pressures first thing in the morning.

[@TheBeckwiths]

I find the speed limiter very useful on roads with average speed cameras on.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Yes, I could use it for that, but then Ican't use the cruise control to maintain speed, I just set the cruise control.

[@simonbaxter8585]

I probably use the limiter more than the cruise setting. So many of the villages near me have speed cameras or frequent mobile cameras I tend to engage as I pass the 30 sign.

[@alisonandrews2013]

Great advice , thank you 😊👍👍

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@richardspeight9520]

Nice one Bob Although I run an older model , lots of common items. Not sure if thor has same set up but the electric fuse boards are many and require thought on my fiat, might be worth a mention. Had fault on side lights and discovered the offset fuse / lighting arrangement. Restrictions are easing but Covid virus can't read so keep washing those hands, keep extra safe at this time when others are not .

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks, I will cover the fuses on the next in the series.

[@gregoriousgilbert519]

Thanks for a great video. Just one thing. The R on the tyre spec is for Radial not Radius; It was because tyres used to have different manufacturing processes, ie, Radial or cross-ply; and of course the later is no longer used as they were found to be dangerous. Watching lots of your films as I am saving to get a motorhome in the near future. Cheers

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks, yes don't know what I said radius. The R16 also refers to the rim size.

[@marklittler784]

A few cans of Holts tyre weld £3.50 to suit your size of tyre for unexpected puntures could come in handy for when you've ended up stopped in a dangerous location traffic or crime wise and your in a hurry to get away or you've already used the spare wheel, its supposed to be a temporary fix for small puncture repairs.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Yes, a good idea, unlike some tyre sealants it sounds like the tyre can be permanently repaired afterwards.

[@JohnnyBurr]

Have you considered a lock on the spare wheel? I know two owners that had a puncture on their Ducatos and found that the spare tyre was missing when they most need it. Great informative video though.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Got one now Johnny, thanks. Managed to order the wrong locking wheel nuts though!

[@stevennewton8709]

Very informative thanks Bob

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@louisesmith4370]

Hi there Bob,. Another very useful well explained vlog....I think you are right that there will be an upsurge in motorhomes etc due to the current situation...take care x

[@ngodfrey3275]

Hi bob, great video as always. Curious if you ever did a video on getting your Motorhome replated to increase the payload? Would be interesting to get advice on this and the process, maybe a ballpark cost too!

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

No, I couldn't because the dealer did it as part of the order. Have a look at www.svtech.co.uk

[@russfinn4602]

almost same in Pugeot but spare wheel a pain winds up and down on the 285 Elddis once down wouldn't come apart hope its different on our new one I'm waiting for couple of other points I never noticed on ours that you have very informative video keep it up surprised no sat nav on radio though enjoyable Bob

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

There was a built in sat nav on the Bailey we borrowed (Peugeot), but it was a car based one and didn't allow you to enter motorhome dimensions at all, so I wouldn't miss the built in one. I'm told they've improved the sat nav on Peugeots recently though.

[@racingblonde]

I saw that the Sat Nav was marked as a Garmin, does that come as standard or is it an aftermarket item and if so what model is it please, excellent video btw.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks, it's this one kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6vYq5lnjsiWbKs

[@racingblonde]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo Thank you, missed that.

[@lynnmic1417]

Interesting to see the variation in manufacturers,we have the same chassis as you but no spare wheel but have the tyre inflation/injection pump which is good for pumping up the tyres if needed but also we have air suspension on the rear which can also be inflated with the tyre pump. Interesting walk through and I’m glad you pointed out the extension to the screen wash bottle which we weren’t shown on our hand over.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks, glad you found it interesting.

[@Zxcbr267]

Thanks👍 Appreciated

[@chrissey663]

Bob your a legend, thanks for another great video, were penciled in to pick up our new kontiki sport on 1st July and as social distancing is a bit awkward in a motorhome I think I will be re watching ALOT of your videos again, so thank you so much for all your information Top man 😉👏 x

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thank you very much!

[@grahamshaw1521]

I've got a speed limiter on my car. Very useful in 30mph zones, or indeed anywhere with a limit. Means I can concentrate on the driving, not on the speedometer.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Our motorhome has a speed limiter as well as cruise control. I admit I never use the former but the cruise control is invaluable.

[@FergusNCasey]

Great video Bob. Especially for a newbie. Got my first MH the week before lockdown in Ireland :-( Can't wait to get out and about.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Have fun! Thank you.

[@richardgordon657]

Excellent video. Will have a look at the mode button and settings again. Interested in your choice of tyre pressure settings. I set ours at between 5 and 5.5 psi but when we collected the vehicle the dealer had the pressures much lower and also gave this advice. The handbook recommended the 5 to 5.5 and I adjusted upwards. It feels more solid on motorways now but just wondering what your experience is on tyre pressures. Looking forward to the next videos

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

I think that Michelin revised their advice and suggested lower pressures at the front. I run at around 62-68 at the front and 72-78 at the back, depending on load.

[@richardgordon657]

Bob Earnshaw Thanks Bob...

[@royboydanny1415]

Hi Bob, have you considered locking the spare wheel carrier with two padlocks . 👍

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

No, I really don't see the point of that. Probably easier to cut the cable anyway!

[@adrianpipe3323]

Thanks Bob. Really interesting, useful and informative. Clear and concise for those new to motorhoming or indeed any motoring as the basic controls are the same generally. A really handy guide for people, and likely another excellent reference series. Speed limiter is handy for roadworks with those SPECS cameras etc.

[@althomas7952]

Excellent video Bob. I've had three Fiat Ducatos since 2007 but still found it interesting. My van has Michelin tyres, so set pressures recommended by Michelin & axle weights. I've also fitted TyrePal pressure sensors which have found excellent. Keep the vids coming Bob. Al.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

I was looking at the TyrePal sensors this morning, if I went for the setup to monitor the towed car's tyres as well, it was nearly £300!

[@althomas7952]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo I've had mine quite a while, always feel confident about my tyres when driving & very accurate readings including temperatures. Definitely worth having. Al.

[@simonbaxter8585]

Another thumbs up for TyrePal from me too.

[@Mike99Nine]

A useful video thanks and going to watch series.

[@startaylor123]

Bob, what position do you leave the heating settings on / in during the winter months and would you use use Silverscreens?

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

I leave the heating on about 11 degrees, 2kw. I have a Talylormade Screen and I've just ordered a new one.

[@startaylor123]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo thanks again Bob...

[@gavinjblandford]

Thank you Bob

[@HomefromHomewithLinRich]

Although this isn't the make of our New Motorhome. I'm sure this will be very useful when we get it. Well done Bob for all your efforts. This series couldn't have come at a better time for us newbies to motorhoming. I'm sure you will witness first hand on our videos all the things we get wrong but you know us......like we did with the caravan :we'll film it, make mistakes, even have some arguments but hopefully learn from them lol. With your help I'm sure they will be kept to a minimum. Keep them coming - Lin xx

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks Lin, let me know if you have a questions. Enjoy!

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks Lin, let me know if you have a questions. Enjoy!

[@martingeordie]

Great video Bob, very informative and helpful. Looking forward to the rest in this series 👍 p.s. I'm slowly working my way through your back catalog of videos. great work and very enjoyable. Many thanks.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thank you very much, enjoy!

[@nixonmark42]

Hey bob. Is your van not euro six

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

It's a Euro 6b engine, 2.3l MJD, 150PS. This model does not use Ad Blue. The next engine versions use Ad Blue, the 140PS and 160PS.

[@grahamtyrer1026]

Well done on the video Bob. Can you at some point cover what is the process for up plating and how do we get it done. Can all motorhomes be done ?

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

A company called SV Tech specialise in it and they can advise you whether you can be up-plated or not. Have a look at www.svtech.co.uk/vehicles/motorhomes/

[@ZerHour]

Some of the latest rechargeable tyre inflator will go up to 120psi ,there are various types ,but very handy as no lead to plug in , and a good tip is let any tyre inflator cool a little after 4/5 mins of pumping types 👍 they don't like getting hot .

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

That's good if they are rechargeable.

[@ZerHour]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo Yes some also have a dummy battery that doubles as a connector for 12v cigar wire type so is able to run like the one in your demo .

[@marklittler784]

How appropriate for the current climate, most this year will likely stay in the UK and there will undoubtedly be an abundance of newbies. No doubt a considerable number usually buy them to travel to Europe where available parking facilities could be free and purchasing a left hand drive vehicle could be an advantage.

[@margaretmackay8139]

Very good video

[@swdman1234]

Looks as though Thor was freshly washed for the filming. You missed the most important thing under the bonnet though. I always have a couple of baited mousetrap s as the little darlings love to nibble on the wiring looms when the van is laid up. Other humane devices are available but the cat doesn't like engine bay! Keep safe. Guy.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks, touch wood, never had a problem with mice.

[@marklittler784]

Yeah saw a vid of a Russian getting in his Lada, first he opens the bonnet and takes the stray cats off his warm engine before starting lol Never thought cats were searching for mice in the engine bay, thought it was just coz its warm.

[@stevedandy9541]

Hi Bob really useful tutorial on the Fiat Ducato, hope it’s ok as I’ve shared this on our V line Facebook group so hopefully a few new subscribers and likes heading your way as this is very detailed for people not familiar with the Fiat Ducato 👍👍👍👍

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Excellent, thanks for that.

[@leetaylor5348]

Hi Mr E ... just a quick message to ,say about your spare tyre ..!! I know your van is new , ect .. but .. after driving for a yr . Or less ... your spare tyre .. is going to be dirty .!!!! . May i suggest you put it in a black bag .!!!! Then only the bag is dirty .. ?? ( clean bag each time .) . ?? . Yes .?? Oh yes possibly , a lock on the spare . Good info , as usual .. thx ...

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks yes, never really bothered about the spare wheel. Think I've only used a spare wheel about twice in 17 years (touch wood).

[@gillnicholls9665]

Well done bob.xxx

[@bloggs730]

Great video. thank you

[@johnpreston2980]

Hiya Bob when you get a brand new motorhome when is your first service supposed to happen many thanks jp

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

On mine, the Habitation service was after a year. The vehicle service will depend on the van manufacturer's recommendation.

[@johnpreston2980]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo thanks Bob 😊 🙏

[@WilliamLees-x8n]

Hi Bob We are looking to buy our first motor home after hiring for a couple of years. I'm going to look at an 8m Bailey approach autograph 6. is there any particular difficulties in owning a motor home that long? Ive hired a 7 meter van and didnt find it particularly cumbersome will the extra 1M make a big difference ?

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

It all depends where you want to take it. The obvious issue is fitting 7+ metres into a standard car parking space. Driving on the road is hardly any different to driving a 6 metre van. The main issue on the road is the width compared to a car.

[@kennorth6958]

Very informative Bob ,,,, Thank you 👍

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Very welcome

[@terrydewdney207]

I built my own motor caravan I add the registered with DVLA It’s got shower running hot water toilet dining area and double bed put out and oversee kitchen area and kitchen It is based on a Renault Master long wheelbase

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Well done!

[@andybb]

Did you have to order your motorhome from a dealer? we have been around most in the Northwest and none are on display

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

There is a huge demand at the moment for Motorhomes. We were lucky to find the model we wanted on display. I'm afraid if you want want new you'll have to order.

[@andybb]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo Thank you for getting back to me,our journey continues

[@mariathomas6144]

Hi Bob we’re awaiting in April delivery of our very first motorhome a brand new Autotrail F70 we’ve avidly watched all your videos and can’t wait. I was wondering if you or any of your viewers could help me with an issue. We are having a factory fitted tow bar in order to use our extremely heavy Thule folding bike carrier and two electric bikes. Obviously we would remove the batteries as we do on our car but is this safe, does this eat massively into the payload should we cancel the tow bar in case we wreck our motorhome we are just quite confused on this issue at the moment. I know you regularly tow a car but we wouldn’t be towing we would effectively be carrying, I know we regularly do it on our Renault Captur without even thinking about it so why am I so obsessed with the issue on the Motorhome!!!??? Any observations anyone has would be most welcome. Thank you in advance.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

It's a problem for many people who buy motorhomes that are 3500kg, sometimes you don't have a great deal of oayload. Don't go removing your batteries, much of the interior electrics run on 12v, there are other ways of saving weight, like running without water in the tanks. You need to know your Motorhome's payload is before you start adding anything else. The manufacturer provides a Mass in Running Order, (MRO) this the basic weight before you add anything else. The difference between your Maximum weight (MTPLM) and MRO gives you your payload or how much you can add to the Motorhome before you are overweight. Also, if you put heavy bikes on the tow bar, you add to the loading on the rear axle because there is a leverage effect.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

See kzbin.info/www/bejne/onzEi5Ztj9xmZtk

[@mariathomas6144]

That’s helpful thank you ps when I said remove the batteries I meant on the bikes as they are very heavy

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

@@mariathomas6144 I see, but you would still take them with you? Why a tow bar and not a bike rack? Tow bars are heavy compared to a bike rack.

[@mariathomas6144]

The bikes are too heavy we have been told to put on a conventional motorhome bike carrier yes we would take the batteries but carry them lower down in the van to equal out the load I understand what you said about leverage on the back and it is a consideration we need to think about there’s so much to learn!!!!!

[@keithbradfield7825]

Yes I think motorhome caravan etc will be more popular too

[@TomRyall3]

Think id put some kind of a lock on that spare wheel holder it seems very easy for someone to nick it!

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

So many people have said that, will do!

[@normanschulberg7960]

I'm so delighted that you bought the same Motorhome as me. I didn't know the whereabout of the battery terminals and how to remove the plastic pull out screen-wash, power-steering and coolant bottles. I've also just ordered the Ring Tyre pressure from Amazon. Thanks Bob, you are a mine of information, and I have the benefit of having exactly the same van as you so I am an avid follower and number 1 fan. Well done, keep up the good work. Greetings from Scotland.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thank so much, glad it helped.

[@russfinn4602]

to be honest Bob we changed in November to Auto Trail Imala 625 that's got sat nav but we made big mistake changing van as we now don't like it only done 350 miles and trading back in but with losses we have gone for 185 similar to 285 but not as high spec but same layout and no sat nav but I do have a truck one so maybe that will be fine Cheers Russ

[@matthewhowlett6090]

Hi Bob can Jenny drive the van? Never seen her behind the wheel.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Jenny doesn't like driving, so I do all the driving.

[@kevanmillar6439]

Nevertheless all very interesting thanks Bob

[@yvonne..]

Brilliant video Bob, thank you. Although I've got a motorhome, I'll be upgrading very soon (I hope!) It'll be a Peugeot but not much difference to Fiat.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Two advantages on the Peugeot, the dashboard tells you what gear you are in and it shows when the cruise control is engaged.

[@neillowes9232]

Evening Bob - question sir , can you buy a 2/3 berth motor home for 20k and if so what you pick

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Yes you probably can buy a 2/3 berth motorhome for £20k, but you are looking at 15-20 year old motorhomes. There's a very nice Auto Sleeper Talisman in MMM magazine this month for £14995. They benefitted from having GRP bodies that lasted well.

[@stevestannard6778]

that,s a big wheel bob with a 16 inch radius! lol

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Diameter of course!

[@HitchUpAndTow]

A very informative and interesting vlog, thanks for sharing🙂Mark & Coral

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Our pleasure!

[@davidgarrell6981]

Vehicle Weights - also note that if you have a medical driving licence (e.g. recently started on insulin) you must notify DVLA and will have C1 removed - so 3500 is the max you can drive unless you apply for C1 ( you will have been told this if you are affected!)

[@baz4x4r]

Bob. Another useful video, thank you. We are considering getting a Motorhome in the future and will probably hire one for a couple of weeks to make sure we are doing the right thing. I do have a question on driving licence. You said about weight limits and licences. I have C1 because of grandfather rights. If I were to buy a van which was over 3500kg would I have a problem when I turn 70 as I think you loose your grandfather rights at that age? Sounds a bit silly to me as by then you may be a grandfather. Or is there some way around that issue? Many thanks. Barry

[@richardcope3850]

Technically it's permitted rights if you are talking to someone at DVLA. They hate the term 'grandfather'. There are many factors that come into play at age 70 and it will depend on those and possibly a report from your doctor to see if you retain the category.

[@daniel0541]

I think that their will only be an increase in motorhome hiring so sites will be a lot busier, you should probably put a padlock on your spare wheel to stop anyone tampering or taking it

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks, do you recommend a particular one? I would be worried about it going rusty.

[@daniel0541]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo you should just get a weather proof one and a chain and just regularly monitor it

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

@@daniel0541 Yes, think that's what I thought looking on google, there doesn't seem to be anyone making a specific one.

[@daniel0541]

@@BobEarnshawMoHo most people just have a padlock and chain, their probably isntva specific one as not every van has one and they are not very common anymore to be underneath

[@jbrad5119]

You could use padlocks instead of the retaining pins.

[@stevestannard6778]

thats a big wheel bob with a 16 inch radius! lol

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

I meant Diameter of course, fooled by the R letter.

[@LaurenceRutherford]

Surpised that Swift do not fit locking wheel bolts (mine has the same wheels as yours). I am going to fit locking wheel bolts to mine (about £50 from a Fiat dealer).. would cost over £1000 if your wheels are stolen.

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Yes, a good idea.

[@billtait9728]

Hi Bob Surprised to see you do not have locking wheel studs and covers! and you forgot to mention Never remove the coolant cap when the engine is warm, because of the pressure!

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks for pointing that out. I really should get you to watch my videos before I upload them! 😀 As for the wheel nut covers, I had them on the previous Bolero, they were a pain to remove. I should get some locking nuts.

[@billtait9647]

Ha Ha Thanks Bob.

[@kevanmillar6439]

16 is the diameter not radius

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Thanks, someone beat you to that. I tend to use the wrong words quite frequently!

[@alanimals]

Bob are you whispering because we are on lockdown?

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

Even after all these videos, I'm still conscious about talking to myself! 🙄😃👍

[@alanimals]

Nothing wrong in talking to one's self Bob.