Fix Up Question

[sajg10]

Hello, we have been looking for a little old van to use for a couple of nights here and there with our small children(ie.camping without the tents sort of thing!). We like the idea of one that has little inside so that it can be used as a play area when at home in the shed.
We think we have FINALLY found one here in Adelaide. It is a 10" Harris Caravan on a recognised bidding site.

QUESTION: Our biggest concerns are the two front windows and skylight needing replacing. Is this a big job? Is it difficult to find parts? Is it an expensive job? My lovely husband is reasonably handy although caravan restoration is a little new to him.

If you have any wisdom to share wiht us, we would appreciate it so very much

[DC3Td]

Hi & welcome to the forum. If the Harris is the same partially stripped out one out at Dover its probably worth it. A good van as not too many come up. Replacement of windows/skylight is just like most other vans. Can be a bit iffy/other times comes together real easy. It`s one of those sort of jobs. If you`re wanting to use it even for a couple of nights here or there once in while even, get the kids a sand pit or trampoline. (why should they have all the fun in it!) cheers gordon

[Roehm3108]

Welcome to the VV forum! If your husband is anywhere near as handy as you say, he shouldn't have too much problem fixing the hatch. The windows however could be a different problem. It's not as though you can go down to the local caravan parts shop and get replacements, for these older vans. That perspex fixed window could be difficult to find, so you may need to have one made for you. So don't expect to get them cheaply - unless of course you can find another such a van for parts. Some people on this site have had to have these corner shaped windows manufactured, and from memory they were not cheap.

It may be worthwhile checking that out first of all. Having said that, it's all FUN, and that's how you need to approach the whole concept of vintage vanning!!

Good luck!

Ray

[sajg10]

Thanks so much for your advice, we will think on it all tonight before bidding,

Steph