Securing your motorhome

• Thursday, 8 November 2007
• Mike Cazalet
• 0 Comments

We are awaiting the delivery of a Bessacarr E435 and as a newbie I have a few questions. Can the Smart Tracker device be switched off easily? What is the next best way to secure my motorhome? Finally, is there a way to steady my motorhome (like caravan legs) or is it not necessary?
John and Tina Gladden

MIKE SAYS
The majority of satellite tracking devices can be switched on or off and have a procedure whereby the device's control centre is aware that your motor caravan is being moved legally.

I assume that you're considering a tracking device as a first line of defence and would ask you to think again. First line defences include things like engine immobilisers and wheel clamps. Tracking devices come into play when the thief manages to by-pass these and their principal purpose is to make it easier to recover your property.

The Phantom device, sold by the Camping and Caravanning Club as Club Secure, holds the all-time record for recovery. Their control centre managed to notify the police and get the stolen motor caravan stopped within four minutes of the device sending out a warning message.

The most effective primary tool against theft is an engine immobiliser. Devices fitted by some base vehicle manufacturers are well known by professional thieves so it is worth considering a secondary device fitted by an auto electrical specialist.
I would also go for a good wheel clamp such as the Milenco Ultimate www.milenco.com filled with granite chips and other nasties.

With regards to steadying your motorhome I'm of the opinion that all motor caravans should be fitted with some sort of corner steadying device but I recognise that many motor caravanners say they don't need these. Talk to your dealer who should have a selection of options available to you.