It’s a specialized antenna, often considered a hybrid of the dipole and loop antennas, or radiating elements.

Also called a helix antenna, it is a traveling wave antenna. It simply means that the current is traveling along the antenna while the phase is varying continuously.

What’s the helical antenna and its benefits?

A few of the benefits of the helix antenna is its wide bandwidth and real input impedance. This antenna is also constructed easily and is able to produce polarized fields. The two modes of polarization are namely, right-handed and left-handed helix antennas.

In the right-handed type, if you’re going to curl your right hand fingers around the antenna, the thumb would point up and the waves that will be emitted from the device are called “Right Hand Circularly Polarized.”

In the left-handed type, the thumb would point up if you would curl the left hand fingers around the antenna.
The conducting wire is wound in helix form in a helical antenna. In most cases, this antenna is mounted over a ground plane and with a feed line that is connected between the bottom of the helix and the ground plane.

And as it is a traveling wave antenna, the phase and the current changes continuously along it. For this reason, this antenna is popular for different applications. It is commonly used in applications like satellite and radio communications.

Read more: Best RV TV Antenna

The two modes supported are axial and normal. In the axial radiation mode, the radiation is in the axial direction, while its radiation is perpendicular to the axis in the normal radiation mode.

The helical antenna is an excellent circular polarization feed. It is also an ideal feed for a small offset dish if used in satellite applications. Those operating in the normal mode are used for a mobile radio and in broadcasting antennas. On the other hand, those running in axial mode are used for a satellite communication.

What are the uses of a helical antenna?

This antenna is used for applications that include transmission/reception of the VHF signals through the ionosphere, radiometry or satellite applications and it’s possible to establish the communication between the moon and the earth.

What are the pros of using a helical antenna?

It has a simple design and is acceptable by vertical/horizontal polarized types of antennas because of its circular polarized pattern.

The antenna can also be used for broadband applications as it has a wide bandwidth. In addition, it can be used at VHF or HF frequencies for transmission and reception. More so, it can offer a higher directivity and has a durable construction.

But if there are upsides, there are downsides, too. For one, it is bulky and large in size. It also needs an extra space for installation.

You also have to know that its efficiency can decrease with a higher number of turns.

Remember that its max efficiency of around 80% is achievable by using between three to four turns. This antenna is also a costly antenna.

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Paying close attention to the part of your RV wall that needs repair will help you prevent greater problems and higher costs in the future. In the following, we’ll discuss some of the things that you need to know in doing the repairs for yourself. If you’re ready, let’s begin and learn how to do some fixes in the wall of your RV.

RV Interior Wall Repair

The first common issue is the interior wall damage. In order to repair it, follow these steps.

Case 1 Changing the paneling

• 
  Tape off everything to cover what needs it to ensure that those covered areas be protected from the Rust-Oleum, liquid nail and expansion foam.
• 
  Apply Rust-Oleum RV Leak Seal Rust inhibitor. Use two coats of it or as much as you think is needed. Let it to dry overnight.
• 
  Apply liquid nail, a synthetic rubber multi use adhesive, which is solvent-based and with a non-runny consistency. It can deliver us with a lasting and consistent bond of most substrates.
• 
  Get all the insulation back in its proper place before proceeding with the next step. Make sure that it is properly positioned as it was before.
• 
  Apply the expansive foam to cement everything. Fill gaps and do it carefully.
• 
  Cut all the excess foam. Let it set overnight. Use a little saw to make sure everything is flushed.
• 
  For the paneling, use a big construction paper and cut it out to figure out the edges and corners especially for weird shapes.
• 
  Lay the cutout on a panel board just as what you can see in the photo above. Mark the shape and cut out using a jigsaw.
• 
  Get the panel onto the wall and use liquid nail to attach it.

Case 2 Water damage in the RV wall

• 
  Remove curtain rod holder. If the screws are rusty, beat them with a hammer. Remove all the screws.
• 
  Cut out the paneling based on the measurements you have set it for, and do it right the first time to ensure you don’t have to repeat the process.
• 
  Remove the insulation block using a flat bar just as what you can see in the photo.
• 
  Check for any rust, and remove all that you can see. Get rid of the big flakes and smooth everything out as possible.
• 
  Tape all the areas you never want to get paint on.
• 
  Get liquid nail and apply it generously. Take your insulation block and get it back into place.
• 
  Check the gaps and use the expansive foam to fill them up. In the next day, you should remove the excess foam.
• 
  Fit the paneling properly into place.
• 
  Replace the plywood back into its position and screw it down at an appropriate depth to prevent screws hitting fiberglass etc. Screw with as many as you think necessary.
• 
  Fill the entire gap and wipe it down. Use color putty for this application and cover the area well.

And for the results, let us try to compare with some before and after photos.
Before, with all the mess mold mildew

Here is the end result with the new plywood up.

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Tips for other cases

RV Fiberglass Wallr Repair

To make small repairs on the fiberglass wall, prepare the things, including drill, breathing mask, eye protection, gloves, sandpaper, fiberglass repair kit, auto body filler, and foam insulation.

1. Wear eye protection, gloves and breathing mask. Remember that the fiberglass can be stuck in your skin. It is also unhealthy to inhale.
2. Using a sharp knife, you can cut away the damaged portion.
3. Repair the insulation located behind the sliding if deep holed. Use expanding foam insulation on it and let dry. Sand the excess foam insulation to level it with the rest of the insulation.
4. Mix auto body filler, apply to the hole and let dry before sand flushing.
5. Repair the fiberglass by applying it over the filler. Allow to dry before sand flushing.
6. Paint the repaired area. Choose the correct color of the touch-up paint.

RV Foam Wall Repair

Another walling material to repair in your RV is the foam wall. Here is what you need to do.

1. Get rid of the hole debris. Take all the drywall or plaster pieces clinging to the hole’s edges.
2. Use some old newspaper to stuff into the hole. Be sure to arrange that at bottom because it needs to support the spray foam later. Make sure that the area behind the hole is clear.
3. Spray foam into the hole but only up to ¾ of the way because the foam will later expand to fill the hole.
4. Allow the foam to harden. Usually, it will take up to two hours. After, you can cut flush it to the wall surface with a utility knife before shaping to concave.
5. With a drywall joint compound, use a layer of it to the hardened foam. Scrape the joint compound flat using the utility knife and then letting it dry overnight. Again, apply a coating before scraping to finish the task.
6. Start sanding the final coat you have just applied when dried. To finish the job, prime the patch using PVA wall primer before painting it.

RV Laminate Wall Repair

Delamination is one of the major issues that have been plaguing many RV owners through the years. When this happens, there is usually water regression in the Luan, also called the interior panel, and the filon sheeting outside.

Due to the moisture buildup, the adhesive quality will be compromised, resulting to warping or bubbling found on the surfaces.
In some cases, it may be worth repairing but not in all. For the small cracks or punctures, you can repair it or take it to the auto-body repair shop or RV dealer.

With the aluminum siding, you can also find specific gel-coat-type waxes and cleaning products in order to keep the RV looking new.

RV Shower Wall Repair

Check out the following for tips on how to repair the RV shower wall.

1. Turn the water supply off.
2. Take the shower access panel out. If you cannot find the panel’s location, you should consult the RV manual.
3. Locate and reach through the panel space. Disconnect both the cold and hot feeds, the pipes starting from the faucet assembly going to the showerhead, and the vacuum breaker.
4. Remove fitted accessories. Remove shower walls. If your RV shower is not sectional, you can take the uppermost piece out first and then work all the way down towards the pan. In some cases, there may be brackets holding the panel to the enclosure. You can find them through the panel hole.
5. Lift the shower pan, but avoid damaging the plumbing that carries the used water to the grey holding tank.
6. Measure the exact size of the shower enclosure to buy a matching replacement.
7. Read and follow the entire installation instructions that come with the replacement shower.

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RV Water Damage Wall Repair

For water damage, expect a further challenge in the DIY task. Check out the following steps.

1. Prepare a tape, an 80-grit sandpaper, 60-grit sandpaper, epoxy resin or wood hardener, putty knife and wood putty.
2. Look for water leak sources to prevent more water damage.
3. If the leaks are entering through the windows, apply RV caulking.
4. You can also patch up exterior siding and roof with a waterproof tape. Apply it carefully because it will not come off once its backing sticks to the trailer.
5. But for major exterior siding or roof repairs, you might want to ask help from a pro because it is labor-intensive.
6. From the inside of the camper, look for all areas with water damage. Check the ceiling, floor and walls for signs as well as mushiness.
7. You can also repair damaged wood in the wall by pulling off the loose pieces and smoothing the wood grit remaining using 80-grit sandpaper. Paint or spray on epoxy resin or wood hardener. It will not just repair and harden the wood but will prevent mold growth, too.
8. Apply wood putty after 24 hours in order to harden the wood. Use putty to fill the wood indents that resulted from the water damage. Dry the wood putty and sand it using 60-grit sandpaper to smooth it.
9. Install the new paneling or wallpaper.

There you have some of the most common wall problems and fixes you can do yourself. But in the case of major repairs, you might want to seek help from a pro.

It’s one of the latest innovations in wireless communication that makes use of the diversity effect of the transmitter/source, the receiver/destination or both.

Read more: Best TV Antenna for RV – RV Antenna Replacement

What is the diversity effect?

It involves the transmission and/or reception of different radio frequency waves in order to improve data speed while also reducing the error rate.

Smart antennas are now common in communications

They work while the receiver arrays with smart signals are processing algorithms that can distinguish a spatial signal signature.
They are effective at identifying the arrival or direction of a specific signal, and then using it to form beams that allow the array to find or track the beam of an antenna on a target.
This system allows smart antennas to allow multiple signals for handling in their array without any of the signals interfering with one another.

Just to give you an example, one antenna is used at the transmitter in a traditional wireless communication, and another antenna is also being used at the receiver, a system called single input, single output (SISO).
However, it is vulnerable to issues due to the different effects. For example, an issue can occur when an electromagnetic field faced obstructions, including canyons, buildings, hills and utility wires, among others.
With the scattered wave fronts, they take different paths in order to get to their destination.
As a result, there is a delayed arrival of the signals, which at this point, are scattered, leading to the cliff effect characterized by a cut out or fading signal along with picket fencing or intermittent reception.
If this problem occurs in digital communication system, it can increase the number of errors while reducing data speed.

Smart Antenna Technologies Get Rid of Multiple Wave Propagation Troubles

There are three major categories, namely – single input, multiple output (SIMO), multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) and multiple input, single output (MISO).

• Only one antenna is used at the source in SIMO while at least two antennas are used.
• In the MIMO technology, different antennas are used at the transmitter and receiver.
• At least two antennas are used at the source while only one at the receiver in MISO technology.

What are the advantages of a smart antenna system? There are numerous advantages of this system that include,

• Economy for users
• Multiple channeling in a spatial dimension
• Improved wireless system performance
• Enhanced signal quality, coverage and capacity

On the downsides, smart antenna systems are larger in size than traditional antennas, complex in design and expensive.

Applications of smart antenna systems

When it comes to applications, a smart antenna technology is used in satellite systems and efficient in wireless and cellular networks.
It can also be used to countermeasure electronic jamming during an electronic warfare and useful in radars.
In addition, a smart antenna can deliver a higher gain for the specific signal in the interest’s direction.

On the other hand, a phased array smart antenna can also reduce interference probability using a narrower beam while the adaptive array is adjusting the beam pattern in order to suppress the interference.
A smart antenna can also help in multipath mitigation that can support the three antenna diversity types.

Smart antenna technology has its promising potentials in improving communication and delivering performance to a wide range of applications. Overall, a smart antenna technology can overcome the capacity limits of communication for devices.
Let’s stay tuned for the latest in smart antenna technology. What do you think is the future of this system? Tell us in the comments.

There will always be some contentious discussion on who built the first motorhome in Australia but it is generally accepted that one of the first motorhomes built, if not the first, was the one built by Gerhard (Pop) Kaesler who was born at Tanunda SA in 1885 and who, after attending school for only 5 years, worked for a wheelwright and undertaker until 1921. He then bought land at Nuriootpa and set up his own business as a coachbuilder and blacksmith.

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In 1914 he built a single seater car and 5 years later a 4 seat touring car with a willow tree frame. He built his first caravan in 1929.

“Pop” Kaesler, as he was fondly known to many, passed away in 1987 at the age of 102.

Mos Kaesler, one of Pop’s grandsons and a member of the Kaesler Caravan Trust in Nuriootpa has kindly given permission for the following extracts from a booklet written by Pop and titled “The Beginning of Motor Caravanning in Australia” to be used in this article.

“ During the early 1920s motoring was one of our favourite pastimes, and the South Coast we visited many times. Victor Harbour was a place we enjoyed, but accommodation during the Easter holidays was always a problem.

During one such trip, Easter weekend 1928, with a new ‘Flying Four Dodge Tourer’, we arrived at McLaren Vale, intending to stay the night. No accommodation was available and we had to sleep in an old shed, paying the same tariff as the other guests. We decided that these conditions were not to our liking and started to plan a new idea.
At home there was an old 1924 Dodge tourer, not in very good repair, but we put on a new body with a house effect and called it ‘Home From Home’. This was almost completed by Easter 1929.

Off we set on Good Friday morning, and reached Moana Beach after lunch. Our camping cooker was tried and performed well. We settled down and people came from all directions wondering what sort of gypsies we were. Had a very comfortable night in our new beds, and awoke to a beautiful day. The water police were very confused about us. There were no council laws for ‘Caravans’ then. People with tents had to pay 2/6 per night. It was a very good area for swimming and paddling for the children.”

Pop Kaesler and his family continued their journey to Goolwa where it was “Back to Goolwa” week. At Goolwa the family were introduced to the Mayor, Mr Wells. “Pop” continues:

“He was very interested in our ‘Home From Home’ and asked if I would build one for him on an old Buick car. I declined, so he asked if I would sell our ‘Home From Home’. After much bargaining we accepted his offer. …. That ended our ownership of the first ‘Home on wheels’.”

After the motorhome was sold to Mr Wells it remained in the yard of his house in Goolwa but it is not known how much use was ever made of it, apart from being used as a playhouse by the Wells children.

After the death of Mr Wells the motorhome was given to the local Council who put it on open display in Goolwa. Over the years it suffered minor vandalism and the removal of some parts until the Council decided to remove it to storage at their works depot. It remained there until during a periodic clean up the motorhome was to be dumped. A member of the local National Trust Branch arranged for it to be moved to the Goolwa Museum where it has remained ever since.

Numerous attempts to restore the motorhome were made but none were successful until February 2000 when two volunteers who were familiar with the restoration of this make of vehicle came forward and offered to return the engine to working condition and to make the vehicle roadworthy.

A number of parts had been acquired over the years but not all were suitable so obtaining the right parts still entailed some scrounging, the repair of existing parts and some work on the body panels. The radiator surround was badly rusted out at the base and needed rebuilding and re-painting, and the engine bonnet had to be replaced with the correct type and then repainted. Both were done locally, and now all the remaining bodywork looked rather shabby. A new muffler and exhaust tail-pipe were needed and all electrical wiring had to be replaced. When the vehicle was displayed in the open it appeared that the little boys just had to tinker. With a nice wide engine oil filler in the shape of a funnel, a handful of gravel sounded just great going down the chute, the result, a sump half full of gravel, and a very messy cleaning job. New brake linings and the straightening and adjustment of the brake rods made them effective again. On Monday September 4th 2000 the vehicle was driven for the first time and taken for a service which also entailed the replacement of all grease nipples.

The rest of the bodywork, the “house” is another task for later. There are doors to be repaired, glass to be put back in windows, locks to be fixed and keyed and a bit of general cleaning up still to come.

The vehicle is now in working order and is registered. It has of course been necessary to make some concessions to the current requirements of the Road Traffic Act and turning indicators have been fitted as have rear vision mirrors.

The motorhome is recognised by both the National Museum of Australia and the National Motor Museum as being the first motorised caravan in Australia and as such it is a priceless part of the collection of the Goolwa Museum.
The motorhome is available to local community groups in the town provided that a driver is available to accompany the vehicle. It is also restricted to being driven within the town boundaries only. If it is to be taken further, it must be transported.

Pop Kaesler’s story continues:
“Now we had a big problem to face. A new house on wheels must be built by 1st September 1931. We began to look for a suitable light truck chassis, which I found without much trouble. Mr. J. Krieg of Nuriootpa had bought a 6 cylinder light 1 ton truck of mine, in which he used to cart pigs to Mt. Barker, but he discovered that the tyres were not suitable for his work and changed it for a heavier vehicle, so once more the 1 ton truck was mine.”
Pop Kaesler stripped the truck down to the chassis and lengthened it to “take the shape of the house”. As the wheels would not be suitable to take the weight of the “house” he swapped them for 20” rims from a 1926 Dodge car and fitted 600 x 20 Balloon tyres.

“Once the frame of the house was made, we marked out each section with chalk, changing it around till we were completely satisfied. One of the biggest considerations was the bed. It had to be comfortable after a hard day’s driving. We planned on having cavity walls for all temperatures.”

After much discussion, Malcolm Reid’s of Adelaide agreed to build a custom made settee to Pop’s design and he states that they did an excellent job. The settee converted to a double bed at night, the bedding being stored above the drivers cab when the settee was not in use as a bed.

Two twelve gallon water tanks were made and fitted underneath at the rear. A spare five gallon petrol tank was also made and fitted giving a total capacity of seventeen gallons and a touring range of around 260 miles (416 km). Also fitted and or stowed were a spare tool box to carry an axe, spade, chains, blocks, small and large jacks, a compass, altitude meter, clock and gradometer.

“A collapsible rear step, non slippery but suitable for shoe scraping, was installed at the back of the vehicle. Found a space above the driver’s seat for the rifle (telescopic sights), fishing rods and lines, hooks, knives, bullets etc,. easy to get at and the door could be reached from the driver’s seat. An Atwater Kent 6 valve wireless was fitted, and a brass peg made with a sharp point to put into the ground under the water tap, to make a moist connection for the aerial. The same peg was used to open petrol tins, for refuelling the petrol tank, because there were no Bowsers along the roads. Petrol had to be carried from Depot to Depot, by means of cans and cases. Two small bunks were installed for the smaller children, and the front seat was converted into a bed for the third child. The front cushion was moved forward against the brake and gear lever, and the back cushion laid flat, making a very comfortable bed. Our children’s ages at the time were Gordon 14 years, Hazel 11 years and Eric 7 years. The eldest son Victor, aged 24, had to stay at home and manage the family business – and he did a wonderful job!

The next job was the kitchen. My wife was a wonderful cook, so we wanted everything to be right for her. Our cooker (from previous “Home From Home”) was fixed permanently and neatly, and Shellite was the fuel used for cooking. The cooker was mounted on steel, and at the back was enamelled steel, like imitation tiles for easy cleaning.

Underneath the cooker was a cupboard for kitchen utensils, and above the cooker another cupboard for groceries. Opposite the kitchen was the wardrobe with hanging space and also extra hooks. Boots and shoes were stowed in the bottom. Everything in its place and a place for everything. On one side was a small cupboard for First Aid, very compact. A long mirror was fitted on the wall behind the driver’s seat, this mirror being hinged so you could swing it for dressing or shaving. More cupboards had to be made, right along the wall opposite the settee, to carry bread, crockery, cutlery and not forgetting the wines etc. These cupboards were used as a seat when the table was erected. The table was fitted to the wall and made to fold down to make more space. There was also a collapsible toilet.

Mr Pitman of Waymouth Motors, was mostly responsible for us obtaining the Dodge 6 cylinder Light Truck chassis. Praise also goes to “Vacuum Oil Company” who gave us well marked maps, and offered all petrol purchased at any of their Depots on credit until we returned. No Travellers Cheques were available at that time. This we thought was a generous gesture.”

This second “motorhome”, Pop’s “House on Wheels”, was fully restored back to its original condition by three of his grandchildren in 1966. This restoration proved to be quite a costly and time consuming exercise but is considered to have been worthwhile considering the interest that it is now receiving.

Pop Kaesler and his family travelled extensively in “House on Wheels”. Their first major journey was their Silver Anniversary Trip from 31st August to 30th October 1931. This particular trip took the family over poorly formed roads and across ferries through Broken Hill, Cobar, Bourke, Cummamulla and Toowoomba before returning home along the East Coast.

Pop and his wife also travelled to various areas of South Australia which included the South Coast, Yorke Peninsula and in 1950 they travelled to Gympie and Maryborough in Queensland. After his wife’s death Pop continued travelling on his own and his last major trip was to Melbourne in 1956 to the Olympic Games.
In a later article we will follow Pop and his family’s adventures as they travel the outback on their Silver Anniversary Trip.

Meanwhile, halfway around the world, our cousins in America were also starting to modify automobiles into what we now call motorhomes, a word which had not yet evolved. In fact the term “Land Yacht” was often used to describe this newly developing class of recreational vehicle, probably because the trades and skills called upon were more akin to those of a shipwright who is more used to being able to use every square inch of available space. Indeed it will be noted that in many places in the text terms are used which have a very nautical “flavour”.
Many of the ideas that developed during the 1920s predate features which we now accept as being of modern derivation.

The following text and illustrations are from an article titled “The Land Cruiser” in a long defunct publication of the era. Our thanks go to Nobby Williams, Q13018 who sent the article in in response to our request on page 37 of the September edition of “The Wanderer”.

“Since there are so many ways in which an automobile can be converted to touring purposes, and so many ideas of personal comfort and convenience to be taken into consideration, it may be manifestly impossible to lay down any set rules and regulations for construction and arrangement. Much depends on the size of the party that is making the trip; if there are not more than two, a touring-car chassis will perhaps answer, but if there are to be three or more, a truck is recommended, unless of course, the party wants to carry tents and camp out literally.
If a touring car is to be rebuilt into a travelling dwelling, the first thing that must be done is to strengthen the rear spring, if it is not already stiff enough, to support the additional weight of the new body, without letting it down against the axle every time the car goes over a bump in the road, and it may also be necessary to lengthen the frame by one or two feet.

Next will come the construction of a body and here the builder gets his first opportunity to exercise his originality and ingenuity in devising new features that will add to his comfort on the road. Figure 1 illustrates a type of body that is easily built. It will be noted that all corners are secured with body irons of various kinds and, if the owner is also the builder, he can have these made by “the village blacksmith” or buy them ready-made. Hardwood should be used throughout and the sides covered with plywood, or heavy wallboard suitably waterproofed. Unless the owner is an experienced “hand” and has considerable skill, it would perhaps be better and ultimately more economical, to have the work done by a professional body builder.

Also for use on a popular make of light car, ready-made bodies for both passenger and truck chassis can be bought.
At the rear of the car are tanks for water, and fuel for the stove used for cooking, as shown in Figure 4. These tanks are placed in the corner on suitable brackets and held in place with straps. The space between them being taken up by a locker for toilet materials, or it may be used as a storage for cooking utensils. An alternative arrangement, by means of which a larger quantity of water could be carried, would be to mount a single tank horizontally in the corner against the roof; then again the tank might be mounted on the outside, above or below the car.

It might be mentioned that the presence of a door at the rear of the car will influence the interior arrangement.
Another view of the convenient interior of this car is given in Figure 5; this shows the combination of table and cupboard locker, and stove. When not in use the door serves as a door for the cupboard, and is raised to the position shown by the dotted lines when in use. The locker, which extends beyond the cupboard, serves as a support for the bed when it is opened out, as shown in Figure 6, and, like everything else, this idea will immediately suggest variations of design and arrangement. The bed may be one of those folding ones best known as a “sanitary couch” fitted with wooden ends and suitably fastened to the body.

A more complete view is shown in Figure 7, which shows everything ship- shape, as it would be on the road, with the exception that the steaming pot on the “galley” range would perhaps be endangered by careless driving. This view shows how the oil stove is connected to the fuel tank. Also, like all the other ideas, the arrangement of the stove is susceptible of considerable elaboration, and shelves on either side of the stove would also add to the convenience.

An arrangement that furnishes a maximum of interior space and sleeping accommodation is afforded by a body of the type shown in Figure 8. In this design, one or both sides are hinged to open up at the center, the lower half resting upon what during the day serves as a baggage carrier. Underneath the beds, which form comfortable seats when the ides are closed, provision is made for stowing clothing and other articles. With the sides in the open position, as shown in the drawing, roller curtains are pulled down at the side and across at the ends, to obtain the necessary privacy. Naturally such an arrangement is more suitable for use in warmer parts of the country, although by altering the sleeping arrangements slightly, it could be used with equal satisfaction in any latitude and in any season.

The interior view shows the arrangement of the “mess” and “galley”, the door of the cupboard, or food locker, forming a table when not in use as a door. By placing the stove on top of a cupboard or chest of drawers, additional storage space would be obtained with no sacrifice of space. The hinged sides of the car are held in their open and closed positions by means of chains and bolts respectively, as indicated. Of course, every spare bit of space can and should be utilized for the storage of clothing, food, and supplies, and the ingenious builder, while profiting from the suggestions illustrated in these two types, will doubtless be able to devise any number of additional comforts and conveniences that will meet the special requirements of his own “crew”. These designs have been stripped to the mere essentials for providing comfortable living quarters while on the road, and no attempt has been made to encumber the car with showers baths, refrigerators, or similar arrangements, the inclusion of which is left entirely to the builder. The cost of a body such as is shown here, will, of course, vary as the interior is more or less elaborate, but for $300 or $400, in addition to the cost of the car, a very comfortable “auto cruiser” may be fashioned.”

In the early 1930s, Vic Kleinig set up the engineering business, “Mastercraft” in Granville, Sydney, specialising in the manufacture of “Pantechnicons, Trailers, Caravans, Buses and Mobile Vans”. The business ran successfully for close on 30 years, closing in the late 1950s. We are indebted to C.V. Kleinig who kindly allowed us to use the irreplaceable photos (pictured at the beginning of this article) of some of the motorhomes that were constructed during this era.

A contemporary description of one of Vic’s larger motorhomes built just after the war shows that it contained many of the features that we now take for granted:

“The large caravan measured 27 feet by 8’ and is 6’3” in height. Ten adults and one child can sleep in it and it is insulated throughout with sprayed asbestos, is sound proof, heat proof, condensation proof and very warm even when in extremely cold climatic conditions. The caravan contains two full sized wardrobes and dressing tables, complete double bed run room (sic), metal lined bread and cake boards, which pull out from cabinets, full size five burner automatic pricking Alladin pressure stove with oven at base which is identical to the latest gas stove.
It has a bathroom size 6’ x 2’9” which contains a pivot shower, lavatory 3’6” x 2’9” Sani lid pan system, a copper with dual burners at one end of the bathroom; also wash basin above copper.

The outer bathroom wall hinges out to make a shade over your head to do general washing and boiling and alongside the copper a platform opens up on which you can place the washed clothes ready to hang on the line.

There is also a crockery cabinet and auxiliary table, and a large extension table which will seat twelve.
The caravan is flyscreened right throughout and has 18 large windows and nine large glass ventilators in the roof.
The sunroom windows are of perspex, conforming to the round shape of the body, and measure 5’6” x 5’.
The front windows are of moulded and rounded perspex measuring 10’ long and 21” high right across the van and extending around the corners.

Beds have inner spring mattresses throughout. There is an ice chest, extra large kitchen cabinet, stainless steel sink, essence bottle and vinegar bottle chests and a medicine chest.

A special ironing board is detachable from the auxiliary table.

In addition to a five valve Breville wireless set the caravan carries a small plywood launch which seats five adults and a detachable Power latest Seamaster engine, capable of 12 m.p.h.

The chassis of the van is a 1927 Federal and the owner has extended the chassis and made a full forward control steering, giving equal – and in fact better – than car driving vision. It is powered with a Mercury Ford engine and gear box.

The tonings inside the caravan are cream ceilings and polished veneer furnishings.
The vehicle has two twin 100 gallon water tanks, under the floor, and a manual controlled pump installed on the bathroom wall pumps water in to a header tank in the bathroom which holds 22 gallons of water and this gravitates to all taps throughout the caravan, which is called “MASTERCRAFT”.

The lighting system is both 240 volts with power plugs and 6 volt running from two large batteries which are charged from the engine of the van when it is running. The occupants can use Petrol or Electric irons for ironing clothes and there is a pressure Alladin 200 candle power hanging lamp.

Interior lighting is English – spiral glass set in chrome mountings throughout the van.
Entrance is gained through a main door which is 6’ x 2’6”. Directly underneath the door at floor level there is a secret panel and from behind this slides out a combination of three steps in one which is let down in approximately three seconds.

At the side of the body near the door is a tradesman’s servery entrance for receiving goods without opening the main door, above which is another light installed showing steps up to caravan at night, and across the glass is the name “VIDORA”, being a combination of the names of both Mr. and Mrs. Kleinig.

The weight of the van, including one ton of water and all the goods, is five tons fifteen hundredweights and it has an average speed of 18-20 miles per hour.

Among the accessories are an 8-day clock, flower vases and scalloped edged mirrors etc.

Another feature is a special draw bar at the rear to enable Mr. Kleinig to tow his car and have the use of it whilst the caravan is parked. This is hitched on in just a few seconds.

A great feature, too, is that the occupants can cook, have meals and sleep whilst the vehicle is travelling along.
You can place a glass of water or milk anywhere in the van whilst travelling and it will not spill.”

Normally one tends to associate “fifth wheelers” with America but there are records of such recreational vehicles being built in Australia before the second world war. One such vehicle was built by Sandy Randell and was towed behind a modified Auburn motor car, see photo below, and featured a masonite exterior.

Sandy, who by this time had two young children, was a builder by trade and after the war decided to build a bigger and better fifth wheeler using some of the vast amounts of Army surplus materials which were coming on to the market at knock down prices. Brand new disassembled Chevrolet Blitz trucks were readily available and sandy bought a few to form the basis of his new RV transported them to his poultry farm at Doonside and started work.

The chassis of the fifth wheeler was constructed from several Blitz chassis which Sandy cut up, welded and bolted to form a very substantial basis for the “home” which was to be built on top. The framework for the body was built using Silky Oak with marine ply being used for the external walls.

The accommodation consisted of the main bedroom over the turntable, a lounge area, a second bedroom with a single bed on either side, and a kitchen at the rear. A full sized enamel bathtub was concealed under the lounge room floor with access via a trap door. The toilet facilities were outside.

For its day, 1947, the interior was very innovative and well thought out by Sandy. It featured a table which slid out from under the bed and which doubled as a desk when bookwork had to be done. It was intended that this should be a working unit and Sandy’s tools of trade were packed away in toolboxes underneath.

The kitchen featured a full size kerosene refrigerator and gas stove. The many cupboards throughout were varnished.
As it was Sandy’s intention to tour New South Wales working on various building projects, he built a very specialised tow unit to suit his needs. It was built on another Blitz chassis and consisted of a cabin also made of marine ply on a Silky Oak frame with a working area immediately behind the cabin. A second Chev. engine was mounted in this working area to provide power for the various pieces of machinery that were needed in his trade for milling and dressing timber.

The fifth wheeler provided full time accommodation for Sandy and his family whilst he was away from home working on construction sites around the State whilst the prime mover doubled as his workshop.

For local transport around town Sandy carried an Austin Seven engine and gearbox together with a back axle and driveshaft, which can be seen on the roof, in the second photograph, just above the driver’s door under the boat. Once Sandy reached his place of work he would assemble them, and a timber chassis and body that he also carried, making a very useful “utility”.

Sandy’s wife and children would often travel in the trailer whilst going from job to job and she would prepare meals “on the go”. When the meal was ready she would call Sandy on a field telephone which linked the trailer with the prime mover, telling him it was time to pull over for lunch.

Photos and details for the above article kindly supplied by “Campervan & Motorhome Trader Magazine”.

Folding Camping Trailer

Known as pop-ups and tent-trailers by many, this versatile hard-working trailer has been a feature of many a family’s history. Often bought as a first trailer, the fold-down is responsible for introducing more people to RVing than any other type of RV. These lightweight units can be towed by virtually any car. Fold-downs can be found in many lengths with options such as hot water, refrigerators, air conditioning and washrooms.

Size: ranges from 4.6 to 7.0 metres (15–23–ft), when open
Cost: starting from approx. $6,000 *
Sleeps: up to 8 people, depending on the model
* Prices of new units are quoted in $Cdn. Used models also available at your local RV dealer

Features of the Folding Camping Travel Trailer:

• The low price of these units appeals to many first-time buyers, or families with young children looking for an inexpensive model as an introduction to the RVing lifestyle. Monthly payments can start as low as $99.
• The light weight of this RV allows for easy towing behind most vehicles, including even some small compact cars. It is also possible to unhitch and manoeuvre the RV by hand, to fit into a tight spot.
• The compact size allows for quick setup and easy storage between uses.
• Lots of living space once set up, including facilities for kitchen, dining and sleeping areas. Some models even include a slideout section which increases the area of floor space in the centre of the unit.
• Additional options for some models include conveniences such as stoves, refrigerators, toilets and showers.

More details available from: Manufacturers of Folding Camping Trailers

To learn more about your RV options attend an RV Show in your area, or consult our lists of RV Dealers, to locate a dealership near you. You might consider renting a Folding Camping Trailer to determine which model suits your needs.

May you like: Best RV toilet paper Eco-Friendly, Septic Safe and Clog-Free RV Toilet Tissue.

Immer wieder einmal werde ich nach der Geschichte unseres Unternehmens gefragt.
Zum 40-jährigen Jubiläum von Fendt-Caravan zeigen wir einen kleinen Überblick, der die Entwicklung bis heute zeigt.
Wenn Sie mehr über unser Unternehmen erfahren möchten, lesen Sie den kleinen Text auf der nächsten Seite. Der Werdegang ist dort auf möglichst informative Weise dargestellt.

Viel Vergnügen mit unserer Historie wünscht

Ihr Klaus Förtsch

Wenn wir heuer das 40-jährige Jubiläum von Fendt- Caravan feiern, würdigen wir ein Ereignis, das vor allem nostalgisch wirkt: Der Name Fendt stand am Anfang nämlich in erster Linie für Traktoren, die pittoreske Rauchwolken ausstießen und aus heutiger Sicht so romantisch wie Postkutschen wirken.
Wer dann aber die modernen Traktoren mit Hightech- Ausstattung sieht, bemerkt schnell, dass sich in diesem Bereich Zukunft gestalten ließ und lässt.
Ebenso kontinuierlich und unternehmerisch solide haben sich die Fendt-Caravans vom ersten
„Nasenbär“ bis zu den heutigen Premiumwohn- wagen zu einem begehrten Markenatikel entwickelt. Sozusagen vom Hersteller von Nischenprodukten zum „global player“.

Und dabei begann alles mit dem jähen Abstieg der traditionsreichen Landmaschinenfabrik Lely- Dechentreiter, seinerzeit immerhin der zweitgrößte Industriebetrieb im Altkreis Donauwörth. Das Unternehmen war aufgrund langjähriger Patent- rechtsprozesse seines Eigners van der Lely in wirtschaftliche Schwierigkeiten geraten und so übernahmen 1970 die Gebrüder Fendt das Unternehmen und sicherten damit immerhin etwa 1000 Arbeitsplätze.
Was für eine Entwicklung! Heute stehen die ersten Traktoren ebenso wie die ersten Caravans bereits in Museen, damals aber waren sie der Stand moderns- ter Technik. Der Traktor war eine Revolution für die damalige Arbeitswelt der Bauernschaft und der Wohnwagen war eine Revolution für die Freizeit – und es spricht für die Weitsicht aller „Fendtianer“, dass sie diese Revolution ständig vorangetrieben haben. Sie haben damals nicht nur Traktoren und Wohnwagen in Gang gesetzt, sondern einen Prozess, der dieser Region einen Teil ihrer Zukunft eröffnet hat.
1998 übernahm Harald Striewski, ein erfahrener Ingenieur und Eigentümer der Hobby-Wohnwagen- werke, Fendt-Caravan. Er fand am Standort enga- gierte, gut ausgebildete Fachkräfte vor, die sich traditionell mit der Marke Fendt-Caravan ebenso verbunden fühlten wie die Vertreter der Gemeinde.

Dass wir europaweit Käufer mit unserer Top-Qualität überzeugen, hat sicherlich viel mit den regionalen Rahmenbedingungen zu tun und so blicken wir heute einer Zukunft entgegen, in der wir exzellente Chancen haben unsere gute Position weiter auszu- bauen.

Deshalb ist dieses Jubiläum eben nicht nur ein schö- nes Fest für Caravan- und Traktorenfreunde in aller Welt, sondern eine Botschaft an uns alle: Feiern wir das Alte und gestalten wir das Neue!

• 1970 Die Gebrüder Fendt kaufen das Werk Lely-Dechentreiter in Asbach-Bäumenheim.
• 1975 Der Alkoven-Caravan “Große Fahrt”, auch “Nasenbär” genannt, wird gebaut. Er wurde das Vorbild für die Alkoven Reisemobile.
• 1982 Fendt integriert als erster Serienhersteller den Flaschenkasten in den Bugraum des Caravans.
• 1988 Fendt erweitert sein Programm um Reisemobile. Das Alkovenmobil 560 HK entsteht.
• 1995 Fendt feiert sein 25-jähriges Bestehen. Erstmals wird eine sechsjährige Dichtheitsgarantie gewährt.
• 1997 Die US-amerikanische AGCO-Corporation kauft die gesamte Fendt-Gruppe.
• 1998 Der Geschäftsbereich Fendt-Caravan geht in den Besitz von Hobby-Wohnwagenwerk Ing. Harald Striewski GmbH, Fockbek, über. Produktnamensänderung: Karat wird Saphir, Joker wird Platin. Einstellung des Reisemobil-Programmes.
• 1999 15.10. Spatenstich in Mertingen.
  Überbaute Fläche: 25.100 qm
  Gebäudedaten: ca. 200 m lang, 120 m breit und 8 m hoch
  Grundstück: steht auf zwei Gemeindeböden (Asbach-Bäumenheim und Mertingen; Gemeindegrenze geht durch die Produktionshalle)
  Verwaltungsgebäude: ca. 110 x 15 m, 3-geschossig Gesamtnutzfläche von ca. 3.000 qm
• 2001 Erstes Fendt-Caravaner-Treffen, das seither jährlich stattfindet.
• 2001 23.07. Umzug ins neue Werk.
• 2001 27.08. Produktionsbeginn im neuen Werk. Produktionsanlage: 2 Fertigungsstraßen, 173 m und 156 m lang
• 2001 21.11. Der 100.000ste Wohnwagen rolltvom Band.
• 2002 Markteinführung der Baureihe “TOPAS”.
• 2003 Entgegennahme des DCC-Sicherheitspreises.
• 2003 Bau von Hagelschutzdächern in 2 Phasen. Unterstellmöglichkeiten für ca. 1.000 Freizeitfahrzeuge.
• 2004 Erste Fendt-Caravaner-Citytour, die seither jährlich stattfindet.
• 2004 Vorstellung des “Diamant VIP”.
• 2006 Wiedereinstieg in den Reisemobilmarkt mit den Teilintegrierten (T 580, T 590 und T 595). Produktion der Fahrzeuge bei Giottiline in Italien.
• 2006 Erhalt des LUPO, Branchen-Oskar des DCHV, sowie 3 erste Plätze und ein zweiter Platz bei der Leserwahl der Fachzeitschrift „Caravaning“.
• 2007 Markteinführung der Baureihe „Bianco/ Bianco Classico“.
• 2008 Markteinführung der kompakten Reisemobile (K 400 und K 500). Produktion der Fahrzeuge bei Hobby in Fockbek.
• 2008 2 erste Plätze, 2 zweite Plätze sowie ein dritter Platz bei der Leserwahl der Fachzeitschrift „Caravaning“.
• 2008 Die neuen TI-Modelle (TI 640, TI 680, TI 685, TI 690) kommen auf den Markt. Produktion aller Reisemobile bei Hobby in Fockbek.
• 2009 Auszeichnung “König Kunde Award 2009” (Gesamtwertung) der Fachzeitschrift “Camping, Cars & Caravans”.
• 2009 Präsentation des „Bianco Sportivo“ auf dem Caravan Salon.
• 2009 Verleihung der Auszeichnung „JobErfolg 2009“. Preis für die Integration behinderter Mitarbeiter im Unternehmen.
• 2010 Axia-Award für Bayern in der Kategorie „Kundenbindungsmanagement“.
• 2010 Jubiläumsmodell „Bianco Rosso 445 TF“ kommt in limitierter Auflage auf den Markt.
• 2010 Markteinführung des Modells „Tendenza“. Markteinführung der Baureihe „Brillant“.