Hi all as can probably tell we are very new to the grey nomad stuff. Both Sue & I would appreciate any comments regarding van purchases we will be buying a 3.5 Tonne Ute of some sort now what Van to buy we are not poptop people so we are looking for a van that will sleep 4 with ensuite etc Thanks Wayne
Try and keep your van weight to 3t or under no matter what tug you buy. Maybe get the tug first. You talked about a Navara in another thread, how is that going?
-- Edited by Dougwe on Monday 13th of March 2017 06:48:50 PM
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Live Life On Your Terms
DOUGChief One Feather (Losing feathers with age)
TUG.......2014 Holden LT Colorado Twin Cab Ute with Canopy
DEN....... 2014 "Chief" Arrow CV (with some changes)
ANY ute.
regardless of figures stated on paperwork.
Is only SAFE to tow up to around 2.5 ton MAX.
Mine I class to 2 and a bit. (D-Max)
I love Nissan. had 5 incl 2 Patrols. the Navara is NOT the best to tow with unfortunately
I had one earlier, '99.
Read reviews.
Personally I'd only use the one nowadays. Isuzu D-Max. Value for money.
RELIABILITY and towing proficiency\capability.
Fords. The mines don't like them (kids work there)
Mazda ok. Mitzi ok.
VW has a rubber band under bonnet.
Toyota not even on the list. Gutless, overpriced wonders.
Auto's are THE best for towing. Just add a Transm cooler.
and maybe a Torque Converter lock up.
With a Snorkel for cleaner\cooler air. and a tuned exhaust for better breathing.
Don't worry about the whingers and extra noise.
That is ALL controlled by your choice of muffler.
Have fun, Whatever you get.
But remember. always have your TUG at least 300kg's HEAVIER than your tow.
For safety sake. Your missus and the others in front of you.
Mine is near a ton heavier.(2.75t Ute, Loaded. 1.95 t Tandem van).
Hi further reading and research is steering me to the Holden Colorado so the search is now on for something that will do the job not looking for a new one but a low klms 2014 4 door
weights of the van will be very important especially the loaded ball weight. Don't just take the word of the salesman about weights - you can use a ball weight scale and get a weigh bridge ticket for overall weight.
Most new vans are weighed empty then owners add a lot of extras, solar panels, batteries, extra water and sullage tanks, jerry cans etc. none of which are included on stamped compliance plates.
We are happy with our 2013 Colorado - just wish I'd got an auto. Pretty sure Dougwe is also happy with his.
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Jenny and Barry
2009 Roma Elegance / 2013 Colorado. Permanent travellers 2011-2015 now just travel for 4-6 mths
Mainly reviews.
The Isuzu has a much better reputation.
Specially after Holden got that Italian 2.8l engine in there.
Look around dealers too. for fleet exchange vehicles.
in '14 I bought a 2010 D-max. ex council Plumbing managers runabout
dual cab, canopy. 4spd Auto model.
3 month out of wty. 67k on clock. Was really "as new".
Full 12 mth wty. $23.5k.
I'd recommend the Auto over manual for towing. and I've lived with Stick all my life.
They better tugs,
Specially with a transm cooler and tuned exh added.
Enjoy what you get. just watch weights. and, as said. Balance of trlr.
Specially a single axle.
