Phoenix Nomad phase 3 caravan questions

Jacob R · Member

Phoenix Nomad phase 3 caravan questions

erad · Guru

Jayco caravans of that era were aluminium frame, clad and had galvanised chassis. As far as I know, Coromal also met that criteria. As for quality, I cannot say, but our 2000 model Jayco poptop has done over 140000 km, and is still too good to get rid of. The only reason to change would be for a shower & toilet, but we cannot justify the expense.

For any caravan of that vintage, the important issue is not how it was constructed - it is how is has been used, stored and maintained. By now, one could expect that the silicone used to seal the roof joints could be deteriorating and the canvas/vinyl (for poptops or campers) could be getting mouldy etc.

Bill B · Guru

Contact Caboolture Caravan Repairs which is run by the Davidsons and they will be able to tell you what you want to know.

Possum3 · Guru

Contact; Colin Young at CARAVAN COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA
3 Margaret Street
Parkdale VIC 3195
T: 0409 865 399
F: 03 9587 1828

caravancouncil@optusnet.com.au

I am sure he will be able to answer all of your questions.

-- Edited by Possum3 on Wednesday 9th of October 2019 11:13:00 AM

Jacob R · Member

Thanks to all for the advice !!
jacob

Cupie · Guru

erad wrote:
Jayco caravans of that era were aluminium frame, clad and had galvanised chassis. As far as I know, Coromal also met that criteria. As for quality, I cannot say, but our 2000 model Jayco poptop has done over 140000 km, and is still too good to get rid of. The only reason to change would be for a shower & toilet, but we cannot justify the expense.

For any caravan of that vintage, the important issue is not how it was constructed - it is how is has been used, stored and maintained. By now, one could expect that the silicone used to seal the roof joints could be deteriorating and the canvas/vinyl (for poptops or campers) could be getting mouldy etc.

I have had a similar experience with my Jayco Westport manufactured in 1998 & done just a bit more at 200,000+km.

What you say about use & storage is very valid. Mine has never been off the black top except the short run into Uldara Lava Tubes & 80mile beach, both of which were smooth as.

Always under cover when not in use.

I recently replaced all the break & bearing stuff & had a suspension specialist replace a few shackles & rubbers.

I redid the secondary roof caulking last year before installing a new 12v system to incorporate solar.

Our en-suite is still as good as new (SWMBO insisted on that when we had it made) & we can see no reason to replace the van. Sure it is not as shiny as the new ones (just like my even older GQ Patrol) but has all the same facilities as most at less than half the price.

If you are careful especially WRT water damage, there are some good 2nd vans out there without the price of a newie.