Well known for its elegant
use of technology and arresting looks, Track Trailer's Tvan
is now available as four models: all based on the same suspension,
chassis and body configuration that set the Tvan apart.
Some not immediately visible but nonetheless important changes
have been made to the original design. These include new ceiling
insulation to keep the temperature inside the camper at a comfortable
level in both summer and winter, and a great new well equipped
kitchen with improved wind deflectors fitted.
There is also even better dust sealing and new locks for the
luggage compartment.
fOR ACTION
Tvan's performance is the result of a number of design strategies,
for example, the MC2 Asymmetric Link suspension - an independent,
coil sprung, trailing arm located setup, backed by Koni shock
absorbers. The design gives great ground clearance, long travel
and a soft and compliant ride.
The uniquely-designed chassis is hot dipped galvanised. The
A-frame and shorter-than-usual length between the axle and the
tow ball makes it track closely behind the tow vehicle - important
for offloading.
Buyers can specify items such as number of jerry cans, batteries
and gas bottles and one or two 70 litre water tanks. The axles
are rated to 1600kg and stub axles are fitted with full-size
bearings both on the inner or outer side of the stub axle housing.
Electric brakes are standard, as is a fully articulated AT 35
all-terrain tow coupling.
The Tvan body is a solid fibre glass wall-and-roof unit that
encompasses the main sleeping area (a queen double bed), floor
space and storage areas. At the rear is a fold-down floor or
deck assembly and a large lift-up door/roof, all of which are
either sprung or shock loaded. The roof carries the canvas tent,
which drops down and clips around the folded-out deck.
Standard electrical features on the base model include single
12V battery, electric water pump, two interior lights and two
12V power outlets, while the top-of-the-line version includes
water tank gauges, 240V safety switch, a battery management
system and extra lights and power outlets.
Dry weight of the T van is around 750kg, and pay load is 500kg.
Ball weight depends on how you load the camper (as with any
trailer), but can vary between 80kg and 130kg.
To set up camp, first the deck is unclipped from its travelling
position and lowered to the ground. Unfolding it once more extends
the deck to its full length while easy slip-in legs support
and level the deck.
For overnight stops, lifting the door/roof and simply climbing
into bed is one option. The full tent can be deployed when camped
in a caravan park, or for longer than one night.
The tent drops from its zippered roof cavity. The door-side
tent wall is fitted around the door opening, closing the interior
off from the elements, while the tent floor is clipped into
place around the deck.
The door is then allowed to rise to its full height with the
internal frame supported by a few poles, which also support
the breakfast bar at the far end.
It's not as quick as some campers, but can be done with practice
in four to five minutes. Packing up is the reverse of the above
and takes about the same amount of time, without any wet or
dirty canvas getting near the double bed.
All canvas work uses first-class Australian-made, 60z Dna-proof
canvas, heavy-duty YKK zips, fine fly wire, and robust, fire-retardant
PVC vinyl flooring.
SUMMING UP
Tvans have been seen everywhere in Australia and are great companions
for a true off road trip. The accessible kitchen is ideal for
a quick brew, an overnight stop, or a longer stay. Sleeping
quarters are comfortable, easily accessed and have the solid
walls, floor and roof for protection, no matter the weather.
TRACK
TRAILER TVAN |
| Manufacturer |
Track Trailer |
| Model |
Tvan Mk 2 |
| Advised tare weight |
750 kg |
| Advised ATM |
1250 kg |
| Advised ball weight |
80-130 kg |
|
