Where to start in vintage caravan cleaning and restoration?

[CrikeyCoral]

Hi, I have recently purchased a 1970’s Viscount caravan in pretty good condition, however she’s been stored in an open farm shed for many years. 

I have towed her home, first time towing ever!…and began cleaning her up, however the weather quickly turned on me. Concerned for my van’s ability to fare the inclement and often brutal coastal weather unsheltered, I decided to relocated her to a local caravan park, that is less exposed yet still not covered as she had previously been used to!

I recommenced the cleaning and noticed that all the windows were basically sealed with dirt and grime, so began cleaning them… I stopped to check the Bunnings Workshop community for “how to’s” and now I’m a tad overwhelmed as to the order in which I should proceed!?!…

From what I’ve read so far…I should be focusing on the exterior and making sure she’s water tight…makes total sense…and has also added to my overwhelm!…

I’ve included some pics, the only water damage that I have detected after my thorough inspection is in the rear left section of the van. I feel I should be focusing on this considering the current conditions…

I am competent and confident in my abilities, I just don’t know where to start!!…

I would love any advice on where to prioritise my  sealing, cleaning and fixing. All recommended  products, resources and how to hot tips gladly welcomed!

Cheers, 

Coral

#vintagecaravan

#vintageviscountcaravan

#vintagecaravanrestoration

 

 

 

 

[Jason]

Hi @CrikeyCoral,

Congratulations on your new purchase. I'm sure you're looking forward to many happy times in your van.

I assume you have seen our three part series How to renovate a caravan? by experienced member @Peggers?

Let me also tag the wonderful @twocutekelpies on who might like to share her thoughts on where she would start when tackling your van.

Jason

[EricL · Accepted solution]

Hello @CrikeyCoral 

I propose addressing the leak in your caravan first. I suggest covering that section with a Saxon 3.25 x 5.3m Medium Duty Tarpaulin and fix it to the body with rope. This will prevent water from travelling further in the damaged section of your caravan roof. I propose using Armor All Car Wash 1L in combination with a Sabco Car And Caravan Water Wash Brush With Suds. The soap is PH neutral which makes it safe for all forms of automotive paint. 

Once you've given the caravan a wash, I propose starting a journal and writing down what you see and what you think needs repair or replacement. It's tempting to jump right in to start taking things apart, but I propose planning your renovation first as you'll see what needs priority and what can be done later. 

Here is a link for ideas and inspiration: 15 caravan and campervan renovation project.

Let me tag @selva, @LizzieCro, @DIY4Knuckleheds and @sandy_d for their recommendation on where you should start.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.  

Eric

[CrikeyCoral]

Dear Eric.

I greatly appreciate your considerate and encouraging reply, prioritising my first steps with simple achievable tasks!

I have collected similar supplies to those you suggested from the local hardware, including a huge 6m x 6m heavy duty tarp (on special) to cover & secure the van…getting it in place may be fun in the wind!…reckon I’ll give her wash prior to navigating the tarp!…

I also have started a Van project journal!

Look at me go!…yay!

🩵