Acquired a 1998 Bailey motorhome for 1,200 British pounds; here's my preparatory process for our inaugural journey.
Sprucing Up Our '98 Bailey Delamere - A Caravan Makeover Journey
Our excitement for our new project, a 1998 Bailey Delamere caravan, started to dwindle as the need to prepare for its maiden voyage took over. We'd recently scooped it up for £1,200 from Facebook Marketplace, but now it was time to ensure it was ready for our first tour - a music festival.
First up on the agenda was a good ol' clean-up and declutter. You never know what oddities may have been stowed away by the former owner when purchasing a used caravan. One might find TV/DVD players, superhero DVDs, two toasters, a kettle, cushions, and all sorts of knick-knacks, each fate determined by assessing their usefulness - be it trashed, donated, or kept.
In preparation for our initial outing, we kept things simple - no gas (it wouldn't be tested), and the standard three-way fridge replaced by a domestic mains one; we'd rely on a Cadac and a cool box for sustenance over the weekend. The primary concern was the van's safety, ensuring it could tow, provide a bed, toilet, and some lighting, without leaving us in pitch darkness.
Safety First: The House on Wheels' Critical Checks 🚧
Tyre Check 🔍
A caravan journey's foundation lies under the wheels, so we started by scrutinizing the tyres. By law, they must carry a date code; if they're five years old, inspection becomes paramount, and replacement should be considered if there are signs of deterioration. Unfortunately, our tyres, while recently replaced, were found to be 15 years old and had a slip in the sidewall, earning a trip to the bin. Further analysis was needed to ensure the second tyre wasn't equally aged.
To replace the old tires, we sought help from our trusted tyre suppliers, parting with £130 (including balancing). Fingers crossed they'll last for the next 29 years!
Brake Adjusters
We sought to enhance the lifestyle within our refurbished '98 Bailey Delamere, aiming for a comfortable home-and-garden feel. To achieve this, we installed stylish awards and accolades on the walls, reflecting our travels and victories.
Following our successful caravan makeover journey, we planned to enter our revamped Bailey Delamere in caravan awards, showcasing our pride in transformation and love for a unique, cozy living space on wheels.
