The Caravan Owners Club

[mark70]

Hi

I am new to caravanning but am impressed with Hobbys. I am following this and other forums but still have a few questions:-

I would like a 495UK but my current car has a unladened weight of 1400kg with a maximum towing limit on 8% slope of 1300kg and 12% slope of 1500kg. Dealer says no problem just keep the weight down in the caravan? This seems contra to advise from the caravan club any views.

If the 495 is too heavy my second choice is a 450UB but the local dealer does not import them. I am happy to import but would like to see one first does anybody know of any dealer in the country with any or anybody have any pictures of this type of van

Secondly I need a battery as I would wish to attend rallys and I understand this can come as part of a self sufficiency pack but do I need a gas boiler if I run a shower as this is also an option. Is the electric heater sufficient to run a shower when connected to an electric hook up.

Many thanks in advance

[mark-b]

hi mark the 495 is going to be to heavy for your motor has ready to run it is 1150kg which would mean that you would be able to put very little into you van for holidays but the 450 would be a good match at 1049kg,you dont say what car you have but doc has the same van and im sure he will help you has much has he can.

[Doc]

..... but the 450 would be a good match at 1049kg,you dont say what car you have but doc has the same van and im sure he will help you has much has he can.

Hi Mark, if you go to http://community.webshots.com/album/67010113HgzPle (just double click on the blue link) you'll see some pictures of my 450UB together with various modifications I've done. Not many of the interior, but you can find these on German websites.

The 495UK could just about be towed by a 1400kg towcar, but safe effective towing, is then more dependant on driver experience and the model of towcar.

Don't know your location, but my 'van is usually in Welwyn Garden City;you're very welcome to come over and have a look-see; it's already been done once! Next w/e I'll be down in Kent with it.
450UB

UK dealers don't normally have the smaller Hobbys in stock, as a matter of course, and if you went to Ambergate, DON'T BOTHER, they are useless!

Also, don't ignore the slightly smaller 440's; they have the advantage of lighter weight and also a larger kitchen area!
440SB

If you e-mail me I can give you other info. you may want