Build Update
RR02 HAR - Rachel, as ever, in the driving seat.
Last Friday both Rachel and I had the day off, so we took the chance to visit OEC and agree the few loose ends left at this stage. As we arrived we could see that some work had been undertaken on RR02 HAR as it was sporting a snorkel air-intake. It’s also had the roof head-lining stripped out of the back of the cab (to accommodate the lowered roof containing the top bed), the front diff protection added and the wading kit. One chassis frame has been fabricated and gone off for galvanising, the other was being fabricated as we were there. Other, miscellaneous accessories are ordered and at OEC too.
Anton explained that the Ashcroft auto-box conversion kit was due to arrive this week. Once that is completed the hand-controls can be fitted.
The Pods are supposed to arrive from France this week too. (We had it in our heads that they were already on site – but it seems they are taking a more Laissez Faire route). Still at least there is plenty of base vehicle prep that can be completed in the meantime and OEC are on the case. Their, self-expressed ‘optimistic’ estimate for completion (in the unlikely event that there are no further third party (supplier/volcano type) disruptions or delays is late June. What are the chances?!
We discussed the reversing camera. OEC showed us one that they have fitted to a previous build and where the screen could be mounted (just to the right of the front passenger grab-handle, where it won’t obstruct any windscreen view) – tidy. Subsequently (on returning home) Rachel and I looked at other models that also provide a ‘rear view mirror’ perspective on the screen as well as a reversing view. The view switches according to whether forward or reverse gears are selected. (Specifically we were looking at the 2009 model Waeco RV 590 kit – reduced in price c/w the 2010 equivalent – but still very pricey at £600). There is an argument that if someone is close enough to your rear that you can’t see them in your wing-mirrors, then they are probably not going to overtake. That’s definitely not a given in my experience of driving in South Africa. What price safety? – Yeah but we are on a budget! I think that a permanently on reversing camera will cover some of that blind-spot to boot. That said I think I’d like a screen that had additional inputs (to the one OEC showed us) for versatility. We will confirm our decision imminently though as the reversing camera is definitely better to fit pre-pod.
We agreed that the inverter could be housed in the ‘box’ on to which the rear seats mount (we will be taking out the 60 bit of the 60:40 bench for the trip – but will be reinstating it on return).
The big unknown is still the best way to make the pod accessible. If it is to be by hydraulic lift then that too is probably better plumbed in before the pod goes on. Anton remains confident that once the chaps at OEC apply themselves to the problem a solution will be found. Obviously we’ll post details regarding this as things develop. (I can see a possible build delay inherent in this element of the project)
We forgot to talk about front-seats when we were there. Over the weekend we’ve looked at Exmoor trim catalogues and replacing the vinyl front seats (with Defender Elite in Outlast canvas) will be (another) £1k. We wondered whether just covering them in Melvill & Moon canvas covers (less than £300) would be comfortable enough? Obviously seating is something that must be right, so we don’t want to skimp for the sake of it. With hindsight I think we should have gone for the County spec on the base vehicle.
Whereas retrofitting might give you more choice, it is also much more expensive and I’m not sure there is a sufficient cost benefit (IE LR’s own cloth seats are pretty good as is their immobiliser and their sound system – all included in the County spec for the extra £2k.) We have also budgeted an additional £1300 for security (Immobiliser/Alarm/Tracking/Anti hi-jack) as a max.
I have bought a head unit for the ICE that seems basic enough.
We will be fitting an Exmoor Trim cubby Loc-box to match whatever trim we end up with. Again all of this work can happen pre-Pod.
We remain in budget but I’m more than happy to squeeze off what we can.
Richard and RR02 HAR
Adaptations – hand Controls
We have had a quiet week, so to keep up the momentum here’s a quick post regarding hand-controls to be fitted to RR02 HAR (we really need a catchier ‘name’ for the vehicle – not that I’m a big fan of car naming, but possibly something in keeping with the nature of the trip….).
As well as living near to OEC, we are also blessed by having GM Coachworks not far away, in the Teign Valley. These guys have lots of experience in adapting vehicles for disabled access (indeed they outfitted our VW Transporter). They are also agents for Jeff Gosling, whose tried and tested mechanical controls have already been fitted to a Defender. At this stage I think that’s the option for me. the ideal companion to go with the Ashcroft Auto-box conversion.
Defender Jeff Gosling Hand Controls
From GM’s website:
SOLUTIONS THAT HELP GIVE GREATER MOBILITY MAKING YOUR LIFE EASIER
GM Coachwork stock a huge range of devices designed to aid disabled drivers and passengers. Call today for information or friendly advice on any of our adaptations on 01626 853050.
JEFF GOSLING PUSH PULL HAND CONTROLS
Advanced hand control, with protective guards, outstanding performance with excellent passive (secondary) safety.
The System III Hand Control with Leg Impact Protection System (LIPSTM) is accredited for use on Motability Fleet Vehicles, as the first hand control to be successfully assessed to the Motability Code Of Practice for Mechanical Hand Controls.
The “metal on metal” pivot point of our previous hand control has been replaced with two axial bearing races to give smooth pivotal operation with no unwanted free play.
Parents Visit OEC
Alan in an Azalai
We went over to OEC lunchtime today with Pat and Alan so that they could see a completed Azalai. Whichever way you look at this, they have a stake in the adventure. From the emotional worries about our wellbeing, to the pragmatic realities of our using the house as loan collateral (as they own and live in half of it!). I think it was a worthwhile exercise.
Later in the day, when I came home from work, Mum said that she was reassured after seeing how well the vehicle was equipped and how much thought has gone into its design. Taken at face value this is a good thing, as earlier on Anton had let us into a little secret. Apparently Mum told him, “I’m not worried about Richard as he’s just stubborn, it’s the pressure that he puts on Rachel…..” he sniggered as he confided in us. “I think it’s just Mum being a Mum!” he said. Personally I don’t see it as applying pressure – more as ‘thoughtful and considerate direction’! Dad was equally impressed with the design and how much is crammed into the space. (The dog came along for the ride and he too enjoyed the trip as he found a sandwich crust in the bin.)
Chassis mounted frame
RR02 HAR
We also saw RR02 HAR in the (aluminium) flesh, and learned about some further developments in the water storage (including an ingenious idea to avoid freezing occurring in the tanks). We talked ICE, alarms and seating, but we will need to meet again soon to take some time and cross t‘s and dot i‘s
All in all a pleasant jaunt on a nice, sunny day and everyone at OEC were their normal, helpful selves.
Build Starts
Just a quick update -- we heard from OEC today. They have finished the current build and will be cutting the pod for ours just about immediately (The living accommodation arrives from France where it is made as a ‘blank’ pod -- windows, doors, hatches etc all need cutting out). We should hopefully be able to post a few pictures as the build progresses. Also I’m hoping to get Pat and Alan over there so that they can see a completed vehicle.
Accomodation and Accomodating
Got a chance to talk to the parents about some of the detail the other night. Ahead of the bank holiday I’d nipped to the pub with some friends, and upon coming home, found the Rentals sitting up in their kitchen over a bottle of wine – Thought it opportune to join them.
We got talking about wills and how the house could be split in the event of various parties ‘dropping off twigs etc’. In principle there was pretty much broad agreement about what should happen, but because of the four-way ownership it might be a bit more complicated to write down! Still reassuring that we are all of a similar mind.
We then got onto talking about the costs associated with not working and needing to maintain our end of the mortgage and other fixed house costs. We (Rachel & I) had thought to rent out our end – possibly as a holiday let. Mother was OK with this, but Father much less so. He is not keen on the idea of living next door (literally in the same house) with people he doesn’t know. I have empathy with this and we are pleased that he took this opportunity to state his view. The practical upshot is that we still need to cover the costs though, and that adds another £10-15k to an already unfeasibly expensive project. Realistically it’s another twelve months saving and seems likely to force us to defer to 2012. I was talking to some friends who may find the [2011] timing agreeable with their own needs (and they would be acceptable as neighbours for Pat and Alan) – but it seems a long shot at his stage. Certainly it’s nothing that can be banked upon.
I also will be tapping OEC for a progress report once Easter is done. Reasonably, I think we should be expecting a call to say work has begun about now.