New [to me] Grand Cali - Yay

[dominichayhoe]

Well these arrived today. Just got to find a local wheel/tyre place that can take the 680 now!
Does your regular ATS or Kwik fit handle our van?

Also booked in for tap…’specialist’ at dealer said ‘we will undertake a diagnostic and assess best course of action’ I said ‘I believe there is a technical note issued and a warranty replacement, reply…. There are backlogs of parts from Germany we may have to replace the water tank. I am now full of confidence…notes I can get the Reich ceramic twist IP rated tap in 33mm next day for ~£70 (I think this is what VW replace with)
View attachment 94322

This one?

£61 delivered.

Reich Keramik Twist Microswitched Single Lever Mixer Hot & Cold Tap (With Barbed Tails)

Mounting Hole: 37mm Colour: Chrome Build Material: Plastic Reich DLT575C Chrome Keramik Twist microswitched single lever mixer hot & cold tap with 10mm barbed tails. ideal for use in the Can 1400 series combination units. When this modern and convenient tap was developed, besides quality mainly...

www.caravanningequipment.co.uk

 

[Chainline]

This one?

£61 delivered.

Reich Keramik Twist Microswitched Single Lever Mixer Hot & Cold Tap (With Barbed Tails)

Mounting Hole: 37mm Colour: Chrome Build Material: Plastic Reich DLT575C Chrome Keramik Twist microswitched single lever mixer hot & cold tap with 10mm barbed tails. ideal for use in the Can 1400 series combination units. When this modern and convenient tap was developed, besides quality mainly...

www.caravanningequipment.co.uk

Based on the pictures I’ve seen of those having had taps replaced that is the unit being used by VW but the 33mm version, there are two sizes (that link being 37mm though I think they are only 33mm or 39mm). It is IP rated but the 33mm bore requires the current sink bore to be enlarged to the 33mm to accommodate, again as reported by a member having had the work done.

 

[Chainline]

Reich Mixer faucet Ceramic Twist, chrome, ø33mm, push-fit, 90° angle

SKU: 575-040030PSKM REICH MIXER FAUCET WITH CERAMIC TWIST. TAP WITH CHROME FINISH AND 33MM DIAMETER. PUSH-FIT NOZZLES. 90 DEGREE ANGLE.

www.justcaravanparts.co.uk

Reich Twist L/H Chrome Caravan Mixer Tap 33mm - Smooth Connector - F271 | eBay

Reich Twist Left Handed single lever mixer tap. Installation hole is 33mm. FAST DISPATCH on all our products.

www.ebay.co.uk

A few around, some don’t quote the size. ,

I am a little bit tempted, given supply etc. and if I could be comfortable that there wasn’t some fundamental water tank/water pump issue (Don’t think this is the case?) to get one while there are some available and get one of the local conversion specialists to just replace the one fitted. They are likely far more used to re-sizing a sink or cutting a hole from scratch than my van centre!

Comments on the above welcome. Yes I would have to pay for it of course, ~ £80 for a tap and an hour or two labour, £150? But peace of mind, probably quicker (van centre can’t fit me in for a 5 weeks and way less faff.

 

[The Yorkshireman]

Hi there are plenty of owners who have no problem with the tap and if it did go wrong then there’s relatively simple fixes. We learnt not to treat it as if we were at home.
Make VW pay for their design mistakes!
Good luck

 

[Chainline]

Michelin Cross climate camper were the only other ‘mild off road’ fully load rated tyre I could find for the GC680 suitably load rated on 16” and 17” wheels (higher than GG).

In terms of looks, less ruffty tuffty but not terrible, definitely slightly less off road tread but still with decent gaps. Much better fuel and wet braking performance and quieter but as we all know you don’t get nirvana, this is reflected in off road grip, but their load rating and longevity likely to be good and yes consumption better, however also almost £100 per tyre more expensive. 6mpg is a ~20% reduction maybe so at 27mpg (I’m
got 32 so far but don’t believe it!) on a 75l tank that’s 15l more or £28 a tank at current prices. Thus maybe 14 tanks for fuel to cover the additional expense of the tyre? This is approx 6.25k miles.

If I am not miles out on numbers and I don’t get stuck in a field (1st trip, slightly wet grass on a gradient with conti’s = wheelspin and struggle) I will feel justified and that I haven’t wasted my money

However if they are noisy as hell and I get below 25mpg I may re-evaluate but not publicly

 

[Chainline]

Hi there are plenty of owners who have no problem with the tap and if it did go wrong then there’s relatively simple fixes. We learnt not to treat it as if we were at home.
Make VW pay for their design mistakes!
Good luck

This may be the best course of action.

 

[mpill990]

Michelin Cross climate camper were the only other ‘mild off road’ fully load rated tyre I could find for the GC680 suitably load rated on 16” and 17” wheels (higher than GG).

In terms of looks, less ruffty tuffty but not terrible, definitely slightly less off road tread but still with decent gaps. Much better fuel and wet braking performance and quieter but as we all know you don’t get nirvana, this is reflected in off road grip, but their load rating and longevity likely to be good and yes consumption better, however also almost £100 per tyre more expensive. 6mpg is a ~20% reduction maybe so at 27mpg (I’m
got 32 so far but don’t believe it!) on a 75l tank that’s 15l more or £28 a tank at current prices. Thus maybe 14 tanks for fuel to cover the additional expense of the tyre? This is approx 6.25k miles.

If I am not miles out on numbers and I don’t get stuck in a field (1st trip, slightly wet grass on a gradient with conti’s = wheelspin and struggle) I will feel justified and that I haven’t wasted my money

However if they are noisy as hell and I get below 25mpg I may re-evaluate but not publicly

We have General Grabber At3's fitted and I can't hear any extra noise.
In terms of fuel consumption I haven't noticed an increase either...mind you I take the Zen approach to van driving ie no hurrying, gentle on the throttle and brakes and just enjoy the ride as part of the whole experience.
Try it it works


Sent from my SM-G986B using Tapatalk

 

[Chainline]

I must stop looking at other peoples wheel set ups and second guessing myself on load ratings! I think 245/70 KO2s on a 17" are well chunky!

Update on bits - smaller table well on the way from Caligap in DE, also Project Camper internal blackout blinds for the cab.

I'm going to try and speak to Black Magic Engineering as the only mentioned specialist installer who has done a solar/battery install on a GC as not confident to do it myself and use the helpful pics and info on my other thread to inform the conversation.

I do also want to fit Gaslow LPG, a think a chat with Gaslow loughborough as that was a very smart install.

Waiting on Duvalay to finish their template process before a mattrass.

I have ordered a velocompact for the bike rack, I'm wary of the towball fitting issue, I have a factory fit fixed ball so may have a problem. We shall see.

Then I really need to get some trips planned

 

[T3Z-GB]

I must stop looking at other peoples wheel set ups and second guessing myself on load ratings! I think 245/70 KO2s on a 17" are well chunky!

Update on bits - smaller table well on the way from Caligap in DE, also Project Camper internal blackout blinds for the cab.

I'm going to try and speak to Black Magic Engineering as the only mentioned specialist installer who has done a solar/battery install on a GC as not confident to do it myself and use the helpful pics and info on my other thread to inform the conversation.

I do also want to fit Gaslow LPG, a think a chat with Gaslow loughborough as that was a very smart install.

Waiting on Duvalay to finish their template process before a mattrass.

I have ordered a velocompact for the bike rack, I'm wary of the towball fitting issue, I have a factory fit fixed ball so may have a problem. We shall see.

Then I really need to get some trips planned

Iv the 245/70/17 on the standard alloys, they look really nice, no offence to anyone on the forum, but really board with all the same looking grey vans with black rims.

The ko2’s are a little noisy, I get 26mpg combined/average, it’s a heavy van its not going to be cheap to run, we all need to get over that, turn up the radio
the KO2’s or any reputable all terrain will be a major upgrade from the standard tyres.

Regarding electrics, unless you are full time, don’t waste the cash on anything more then replacing the battery under the hood with a 100ah lithium, (ecotree or similar) and a cheap £45 300watt inverter for usual laptops etc. unless you plan to run induction, microwave or similar. (Even if you have an endless supply of cash)

Regarding the mattress of the 600 and 680, Iv committed to supplying Duvalay with a 3D laser scan of the vans interior using either a Faro or Leica BLK 360 whichever is available on our fleet first, expect this in the next 3 weeks. (Work comes first)

My opinion, enjoy the van, everything will come together in time, besides you are most likely going to make a couple revisions as time and needs change.

What might be a good idea is a meet-up, anyone have an idea on location?

 

[Jester]

Iv the 245/70/17 on the standard alloys, they look really nice, no offence to anyone on the forum, but really board with all the same looking grey vans with black rims.

The ko2’s are a little noisy, I get 26mpg combined/average, it’s a heavy van its not going to be cheap to run, we all need to get over that, turn up the radio
the KO2’s or any reputable all terrain will be a major upgrade from the standard tyres.

Regarding electrics, unless you are full time, don’t waste the cash on anything more then replacing the battery under the hood with a 100ah lithium, (ecotree or similar) and a cheap £45 300watt inverter for usual laptops etc. unless you plan to run induction, microwave or similar. (Even if you have an endless supply of cash)

Regarding the mattress of the 600 and 680, Iv committed to supplying Duvalay with a 3D laser scan of the vans interior using either a Faro or Leica BLK 360 whichever is available on our fleet first, expect this in the next 3 weeks. (Work comes first)

My opinion, enjoy the van, everything will come together in time, besides you are most likely going to make a couple revisions as time and needs change.

What might be a good idea is a meet-up, anyone have an idea on location?

View attachment 94669

View attachment 94670

View attachment 94671

View attachment 94672

Great idea Terry, re meet any date suggestions. Location, possibly the Cotswolds?

 

[Chainline]

Iv the 245/70/17 on the standard alloys, they look really nice, no offence to anyone on the forum, but really board with all the same looking grey vans with black rims.

The ko2’s are a little noisy, I get 26mpg combined/average, it’s a heavy van its not going to be cheap to run, we all need to get over that, turn up the radio
the KO2’s or any reputable all terrain will be a major upgrade from the standard tyres.

Regarding electrics, unless you are full time, don’t waste the cash on anything more then replacing the battery under the hood with a 100ah lithium, (ecotree or similar) and a cheap £45 300watt inverter for usual laptops etc. unless you plan to run induction, microwave or similar. (Even if you have an endless supply of cash)

Regarding the mattress of the 600 and 680, Iv committed to supplying Duvalay with a 3D laser scan of the vans interior using either a Faro or Leica BLK 360 whichever is available on our fleet first, expect this in the next 3 weeks. (Work comes first)

My opinion, enjoy the van, everything will come together in time, besides you are most likely going to make a couple revisions as time and needs change.

What might be a good idea is a meet-up, anyone have an idea on location?

View attachment 94669

View attachment 94670

View attachment 94671

View attachment 94672

Many thanks. I was due to visit to let them template mine but you were there just before and the scan offer, plus not far out meant we concluded this was more than good enough. I did chat to jester about it. Many thanks for the contribution.

Noted on battery. The ecotree was my first thought and this may be good advice. I won't be full time. I would like a solar charging option though. I am happy to either do that via a plug in under bonnet or from inside the electrics cupboard.
I went Rogue so to speak on wheels with Grabbers so have made my bed now... Once they have confirmed sizing at Duvalay I will order one.

 

[Chainline]

Great idea Terry, re meet any date suggestions. Location, possibly the Cotswolds?

Cotswolds would work for me, maybe not too close to Clarkson's Farm!

 

[T3Z-GB]

Cotswolds would work for me, maybe not too close to Clarkson's Farm!

I’m okay to meet anywhere in the country.

 

[Mr T]

Cotswolds would work for me, maybe not too close to Clarkson's Farm!

I’m up for a meet!

 

[T3Z-GB]

Many thanks. I was due to visit to let them template mine but you were there just before and the scan offer, plus not far out meant we concluded this was more than good enough. I did chat to jester about it. Many thanks for the contribution.

Noted on battery. The ecotree was my first thought and this may be good advice. I won't be full time. I would like a solar charging option though. I am happy to either do that via a plug in under bonnet or from inside the electrics cupboard.
I went Rogue so to speak on wheels with Grabbers so have made my bed now... Once they have confirmed sizing at Duvalay I will order one.

View attachment 94673

The grabbers are an excellent tyre, you’ll be happy with them.

 

[T3Z-GB]

@Chainline I’m seriously jealous of your ac, wish I had one!

 

[Chainline]

@Chainline I’m seriously jealous of your ac, wish I had one!

it wasn't my choice! I also am quite nervous of the extra height. It only works when on hookup, that was one reason for wondering about a power station and if it simulated being on hookup it could still run the AC. but it would be a huge indulgence to do that and likely wouldn't last long. I guess some reference to current weather. It has been hot the last couple of days.

 

[Hammer]

@Chainline I’m seriously jealous of your ac, wish I had one!

I am considering the below, the company is local too me so will try at some point to take GC down and see how well it fits out the window by the table.

Cool My Camper - Air Conditioning For Caravans and Motorhomes

Cool your caravan or motorhome with our portable air conditioning designed for motorhomes, caravans and campers.

www.coolmycamper.com

Also very low power usage for AC unit so might be able to get good few hours running out of a good solar generator.

 

[T3Z-GB]

I am considering the below, the company is local too me so will try at some point to take GC down and see how well it fits out the window by the table.

Cool My Camper - Air Conditioning For Caravans and Motorhomes

Cool your caravan or motorhome with our portable air conditioning designed for motorhomes, caravans and campers.

www.coolmycamper.com

Also very low power usage for AC unit so might be able to get good few hours running out of a good solar generator.

Keen to hear your opinion on it. There’s not much current or up to date info on YouTube I could find.

 

[Chainline]

Just discovered, in going out to test the aircon on the drive, and looking at instructions that the aircon unit has a winter heating mode that automatically keeps the vehicle temp between 7 and 10c either during storage or daytime if hooked up to stop inside from icing.. This could prevent the water dump maybe?

 

[T3Z-GB]

Just discovered, in going out to test the aircon on the drive, and looking at instructions that the aircon unit has a winter heating mode that automatically keeps the vehicle temp between 7 and 10c either during storage or daytime if hooked up to stop inside from icing.. This could prevent the water dump maybe?

As you probably know I’m full time in the van and spent this past winter in the van. I travel extensively for work and pleasure and never experienced any water dump issues. This is between the highlands and wales.

Iv heard of people having these problems but can honestly say never experienced them. Usually the heater is on during winter evenings for a couple hours, even left it on with the temp set to 14°c at the expense of gas obvs.

But for sure the ac you have acts as a dehumidifier/climate control so really speaking you should have no problem with damp or dump

Please update us all with your findings..

 

[Chainline]

Oh to have no problems with damp or dump

 

[Chainline]

New table from Calipcap DE arrived today. Nice and light, stores neatly next to bench seat with 90deg. catch. Not cheap and £55 of duty, charges and vat thanks to the B word, should be like this from factory but I'm happy.

Also ordered a Garmin Camper Sat Nav as I'm paranoid about the height/length, not worried about the width really.

 

[andyinluton]

Just discovered, in going out to test the aircon on the drive, and looking at instructions that the aircon unit has a winter heating mode that automatically keeps the vehicle temp between 7 and 10c either during storage or daytime if hooked up to stop inside from icing.. This could prevent the water dump maybe?

If you've got hookup, keeping the Truma heating running on electric set to even just 7 or 8 degrees would be more effective, as you are using the heater under the bench where the dump valve is located so the heat is in the right place.

Other tricks used by motorhomers include mechanical locking the blueTruma dump valve in the closed position using a zip tie, cloths peg etc.
Alternatively a low wattage tube heater like the £15 one attached, positioned under the bench would stop the valve popping.

Don't forget though the whole point of the valve is to protect the water system from frost damage in particular the Truma boiler. You should only keep the water in if you are 100% sure that none of the system is going to freeze.

 

[Chainline]

Totally agree with the above when further reading. Assuming the heating is running, on electric or gas then I assume the boiler would be protected? I have also seen the wastewater tank heating mat but it does seem to keep the water unit quite warm and I wondered what kind of draw it might have.

On my drive if not using the vehicle, draining down is the safe option?