UK to OZ - Vehicle Familiarisation - Page 4

defenderdavie · #31 16th-February-2008, 22:20

im makinr racks similar to these for the rear of mine on both sides secures 2 windows as well on a csw
http://www.van-guard.co.uk/acatalog/pigeon-hole.jpg

defenderdavie · #32 17th-February-2008, 15:04

Caranex

Cassie · #33 18th-February-2008, 12:10

Cheers for the input - am going to take all info away and have a long hard think about all the points mentioned and look in better detail at weblinks provided. "I'll be back!" shortly on these. Am chewing the cud re: external versus internal grilles meantime:
External - visual deterrent but hard to clean windows (though this could be a good thing - the dirtier - the harder it will be for prying eyes to see through. Also would protect windows from being smashed unneccesarily.
Internal - less conspicuous, can clean windows and keep vehicle prettified - BUT not at all important for the type of journey we're planning. In addition - internally fitted means could also be more restricted internally with fit out of vehicle - if I need to board/fit or secure anything against vehicle walls internally. Seems that external grilles would be better all round? Just want to be sure. Had a look at Mantec website and the internal grilles for example - not cheap - don't want to make any expensive mistakes. Any idea where I can have a look at external examples and prices? Thanks.

Cassie · #34 18th-February-2008, 12:45

Thought it was good advise re: security grill behind 2nd seats - up till now I thought just for keeping dogs out of main seating areas or to keep contents of back of vehicle secure - didn't think about the purpose it serves re: rear load being thrown forward - jerry cans/spare wheel/bedding/fridge/cuddly toy etc. during emergenecy breaks etc. - specially with children. Thanks for that!

tacr2man · #35 18th-February-2008, 13:06

Best bet for window grills is external, either top or bottom hinged with securing pins on other side so can be moved to clean also easier access to side windows to slide, and allows windows to be open at night etc . esp if you are still with internal sleeping . Don’t think you can buy had to make mine .
Reason for fridge between second row seats is load barrier prevents access into rear when travelling when need cool drink etc. I also have fold up grill on front screen 3 reasons prevent stone chips, stop stones thrown by kids , safety when winching. Can be pulled up in to position on the move .
You will have lots to think about , good move not rushing

Cassie · #36 18th-February-2008, 13:32

Was veering 'off and on' about fridge between seats idea but - now you've mentioned load barrier and compromised rear access while travelling - puts a completely different slant on things. Like the idea also re: fold up grill on front windscreen. Take it you leave attached to front bonnet -flat on vehicle. Can you/anyone advise where I can obtain materials and how I could go about making? Or do I need to know a bit about soldering etc.? Any photo examples really welcomed unless someone knows if such external grilles can be purchased. Looking at internal - thought these a bit pricey - not about cost really rather than controlling it - know I need to spend a tidy sum overall on fit out but can see could quite easily get carried away and spend a small fortune. Meantime am just dying to simply "buy" something but am being patient - but it's "killing me". My thoughts on seating meantime are now as follows:
Part of reason why veering 'on and off' fridge in betweeb seats was cos, I did like the idea of reclining seats - if children want to sleep while on the move - but I now realise that this is not feasible with load barrier. Also think recliner kit designed for 3 seats so middle section would definately compromise fridge/seat config. So, 2 x basic high back seats for children - one either side starting to look very favourable. Could look instead at the type of child seats - some come with recline options without comprising seat belts/safety of child. Fridge in middle means one less thing to think about in kitting out/storage terms in rear of vehicle.
You are right - lots to think about - just those little details make such huge differences/results. Feel glad I got something right - i.e taking plenty time and sheer reality of just how important it is re: vehicle prep. Huge thanks for tips so far - really grateful.

defenderdavie · #37 18th-February-2008, 22:23

fyi
anyone used these split charge systems?

Cassie · #38 19th-February-2008, 11:37

Ta! Very interesting - more to think about! Can see I am I going to be flooding this forum with questions

Cassie · #39 20th-February-2008, 10:19

Major set-back. Measured 110 yesterday to find approx 1.2m in length at the back along bench seats. Daughter is 1.2m now - so impossible to consider children sleeping in vehicle by time of trip in April 2010. Not feasible at all.
Looks like external sleeping in tent for all of us.

Bushtoy · #40 20th-February-2008, 10:47

have you considered a decent offroad trailer? you can then have a rooftop tent on the landy and one on the trailer.