michele Posted January 5, 2012 Share Posted January 5, 2012 For our new MH and we have finally decided It will be another Bessie but the E789 . We have to be able to get the wheelchairs in the place so we have opted for the one with the garage . We actually like the E799 BUT needs must we would be stuck trying to get the kids in well not the children but the wheelchairs and we dont know of any folding ones (like hopital one ) that would suit as they need to be strapped in as they cannot support themselves . So come on lets have it good or bad :D When is the next available show ASAP so we can go look :-) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest peter Posted January 5, 2012 Share Posted January 5, 2012 Well done michele. Hope you make a good choice. You knew you couldn't stay away from a van. :D Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 5, 2012 Author Share Posted January 5, 2012 I should of wrote the book teh Van By Roddy Doyle one of my favorites always makes me PMSL x Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nowtelse2do Posted January 5, 2012 Share Posted January 5, 2012 michele, there is one in Manchester this month, 19-22 Jan near the Trafford Center so a bit of shopping also :-D The Caravan & Motorhome Show at EventCity. Might be a bit to far north for you tho' Advance Tickets cost £7 on the door price is £8.50p Kids under 16 free Tel 0844 873 7349. There's a kids zone (Saturday & Sunday only) and a dedicated children's area. Dave Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
flicka Posted January 6, 2012 Share Posted January 6, 2012 Hi Michelle The nearest Motorhome show to you will be @ Excel, London - 14 to 19 Feb. http://www.motorhomecaravanandcamping.co.uk/ Have you checked the Bessie E789 - I understood you needed 5 belted seats & 5 berths. That Bessie only has 4 belted seats (both models) & 4 berths (low line version) or 6 berths (high line model) ? Regarding folding wheelchairs - it may be worth a visit to either: - Naidex South @ Excel London (but not until October) http://www.naidexsouth.com/Naidex10/Website/Default.aspx?refer=2&id=mainLnk2 Naidex Birmingham NEC in May http://www.naidex.co.uk/NaidexBir11/website/NaidexSalesBrochureForm.aspx Mobility Roadshow 21/23 June @ Peterborough Showground http://www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk/ All these have many of the wheelchair manufacturers exhibiting & at the 2011 Naidex (NEC) & Mobility Roadshows there were many specialist childrens wheelchairs. Naidex & Mobility Roadshows are Free Entry with ON-line Registration (& you don't get pestered by continual e-mails, just reminders nearer to the event dates.) With the Mobility Roadshow, have a look at the exhibitors for potentially suitable products & you can then book an appointment on-line for time slot, prior to the show. (Not sure if this option is available for Naidex) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 8, 2012 Author Share Posted January 8, 2012 WOW FLICKA , BRilliant !!!!! Thank you x Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
flicka Posted January 9, 2012 Share Posted January 9, 2012 Hi Michelle If you are looking at the Bessacarr E789 that only offers 4 belted seats, it could also be worthwhile looking at the Autotrail Frontier range (Commanche, Arapaho & Chieftain) only 4cm longer. Looking at the Autotrail website there is options for 6 belted seats (4 x 3point foward facing & 2 x rear facing lap belts) http://www.auto-trail.co.uk/index.php/ All are marginally lower price than the Bessacarr, but I the website prices do not include the extra seating option costs. Go to "Model range" & then "Weight calculator" "Double Full Dinette with 2 Forward Facing Seatbelts (DD, option 'B' in the brochure)" "2 Seat Belts Fitted To Rear Facing Double Dinette" The "Chieftain" appears to have the bigger Garage. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 10, 2012 Author Share Posted January 10, 2012 Just read to hubby thanking you quickly as off to look xxxxxxxxx Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 10, 2012 Author Share Posted January 10, 2012 Why is it that if a bloody big company selling a 70000 mh can not show you pictures of what you want eg each model on the websites after all they are designing the website . Does it not occur to them people actually want to see what they are spending hard earned cash on . In a mag I can understand because they are paying for printing etc etc but on a website why bloody not . Flicka I looked I know i can get the drift but would love to see the DD options back bed or the whole of the DD model with the high line. I give up I downloaded the brochure although I can plainly see the DD I can not see inside a DD HL in one go so have to imagine it ... Off to the Excel show in feb ? I know someone told me when its on but typical me i have forgot ...Do you think they will have them all in ? including Bessie . I need a bed for Fred and a bed for Frankie both female but cannot sleep alone so we share ie he sleeps with freddie so she cant fall as she is our daughter and i sleep with frankie . Mikey can go up top he is fine on his own and wont fall. so in order to do this we need the three doubles.which is why we were looking at the lounge option it would make a big bed for fred who is very poorly ...if need be I can leav eit made up in the day if she is that unwell. if not loads of nice space whilst I am cooking so the kids cant get in the way and burnt . We like to take the kids as they are considerted to us as part of the family we will get time alone but thats not often as respite isnt forthcomming . Now all I would have to do for this model is work out how to get a crelling harness attached to the DD seats .. x2. the other rear facing can be lap belts as thats all Mikey needs. other problem is where do we put the wheelchairs ? which dont fold and I can imagine they will never be in folding ones. So that leaves us with the same option BUT with a garge which will take the wheelchairs x2 But we like Bessie the most but cant find a DD garage for bessie .. do they make one ? are we missing something E799 is all we can see rear lounge again ... back to the same prob ..someone help. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
flicka Posted January 11, 2012 Share Posted January 11, 2012 michele - 2012-01-10 11:45 PM Why is it that if a bloody big company selling a 70000 mh can not show you pictures of what you want eg each model on the websites after all they are designing the website . Does it not occur to them people actually want to see what they are spending hard earned cash on . In a mag I can understand because they are paying for printing etc etc but on a website why bloody not . Flicka I looked I know i can get the drift but would love to see the DD options back bed or the whole of the DD model with the high line. I give up I downloaded the brochure although I can plainly see the DD I can not see inside a DD HL in one go so have to imagine it ... Off to the Excel show in feb ? I know someone told me when its on but typical me i have forgot ...Do you think they will have them all in ? including Bessie . I need a bed for Fred and a bed for Frankie both female but cannot sleep alone so we share ie he sleeps with freddie so she cant fall as she is our daughter and i sleep with frankie . Mikey can go up top he is fine on his own and wont fall. so in order to do this we need the three doubles.which is why we were looking at the lounge option it would make a big bed for fred who is very poorly ...if need be I can leav eit made up in the day if she is that unwell. if not loads of nice space whilst I am cooking so the kids cant get in the way and burnt . We like to take the kids as they are considerted to us as part of the family we will get time alone but thats not often as respite isnt forthcomming . Now all I would have to do for this model is work out how to get a crelling harness attached to the DD seats .. x2. the other rear facing can be lap belts as thats all Mikey needs. other problem is where do we put the wheelchairs ? which dont fold and I can imagine they will never be in folding ones. So that leaves us with the same option BUT with a garge which will take the wheelchairs x2 But we like Bessie the most but cant find a DD garage for bessie .. do they make one ? are we missing something E799 is all we can see rear lounge again ... back to the same prob ..someone help. Hi Michelle For the February show at Excel see my post above. It is a dilemma regarding manufacturers brochures not showing the options available & Dealers will generally only have the "standard" models in stock. IMO because you have a very specific requirement, it would be best to attend the show(s) I don't think any manufacturer will be familiar with the "crelling harness" & talk to the manufacturer directly (not a dealer on a manufacturer's stand,) I know Autotrail also do Factory Tours, so there would be the possibility to attend one & get face to face. I can't find anything on the Swift Kontiki or Bessacarr E700 series (same models basically, but different colour wood / upholstery) where the rear facing belts are an option. Another point to consider is the Garage - the bigger (height) the Garage the higher to Bed will be over it. Another source for modifications is Coachbuilt GB at Nuneaton (Jeff) - they have added additional seat belt to some motorhomes. No cheap, but they did an excellant job modifying our Washroom Access & are "Approved" by Swift's. I know he was on the Swift stand at the October NEC Show, so it may be worthwhile phoning to ask if he will be at Excel. http://www.coachbuiltgb.co.uk/Home.aspx/About or 02476 341196 When you say the wheelchairs don't fold, do you mean that even the back & push handle do not fold forward or that they don't fold side to side ? Also, can I suggest you take the larger wheelchair or it's dimensions with you to the show, to check they will fit in the Garage. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
flicka Posted January 11, 2012 Share Posted January 11, 2012 Michelle Here is a possible option & reasonably close to you to have a look at. http://www.pullingers.co.uk/newveh/025.htm Pulingers, 11, First Avenue, Bluebridge Industrial Estate,Halstead, Essex, CO9 2EX. Telephone : 01787 472747 Email : Pullingerssales@aol.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Peter James Posted January 11, 2012 Share Posted January 11, 2012 I can't understand the attraction of a motorhome show. But then I've never been to one. The only motor show I have ever been to was the motor show at Earls Court about 1972, and I vowed I would never go to another. An ordeal to get there and back, ridiculously crowded, couldn't get near the cars. flicka - 2012-01-09 8:38 PM If you are looking at the Bessacarr E789 that only offers 4 belted seats, it could also be worthwhile looking at the Autotrail Frontier range (Commanche, Arapaho & Chieftain) only 4cm longer. . They have got all these at Brownhills, you can go anytime, easy to get to and park, free of charge, look round at your leisure, not crowded, and nobody bothers you. Not criticising, just asking. Why go to a motorhome show? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
flicka Posted January 11, 2012 Share Posted January 11, 2012 Peter James - 2012-01-11 1:25 AM I can't understand the attraction of a motorhome show. But then I've never been to one. The only motor show I have ever been to was the motor show at Earls Court about 1972, and I vowed I would never go to another. An ordeal to get there and back, ridiculously crowded, couldn't get near the cars. flicka - 2012-01-09 8:38 PM If you are looking at the Bessacarr E789 that only offers 4 belted seats, it could also be worthwhile looking at the Autotrail Frontier range (Commanche, Arapaho & Chieftain) only 4cm longer. . They have got all these at Brownhills, you can go anytime, easy to get to and park, free of charge, look round at your leisure, not crowded, and nobody bothers you. Not criticising, just asking. Why go to a motorhome show? Hi Peter Dealerships are OK, IF you are browsing or want a standard production line output model. Brownhills (along with any of the other Autotrail Dealers) will / should have the "Standard Layout" model on show, they may even have the "Low-line & High-line variants, but I've yet to find any with the available Seating options amongst their display stock. i.e the Autotrails' on display, will have forward inward facing bench seating, not the half-dinette or full dinette factory order options. The "options models" available TO ORDER, by customers are usually delived to the Dealer & then the Buyer in quick succession, so there is a very limited opportunity to view by the browsing public on a dealers' forecourt. A Show gives the opportunity to explore / discuss the options in depth with the Manufacturers Representatives who should have more information than the Dealers' Salespeople. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Peter James Posted January 12, 2012 Share Posted January 12, 2012 flicka - 2012-01-11 8:12 PM Peter James - 2012-01-11 1:25 AM I can't understand the attraction of a motorhome show. But then I've never been to one. The only motor show I have ever been to was the motor show at Earls Court about 1972, and I vowed I would never go to another. An ordeal to get there and back, ridiculously crowded, couldn't get near the cars. flicka - 2012-01-09 8:38 PM If you are looking at the Bessacarr E789 that only offers 4 belted seats, it could also be worthwhile looking at the Autotrail Frontier range (Commanche, Arapaho & Chieftain) only 4cm longer. . They have got all these at Brownhills, you can go anytime, easy to get to and park, free of charge, look round at your leisure, not crowded, and nobody bothers you. Not criticising, just asking. Why go to a motorhome show? Hi Peter Dealerships are OK, IF you are browsing or want a standard production line output model. Brownhills (along with any of the other Autotrail Dealers) will / should have the "Standard Layout" model on show, they may even have the "Low-line & High-line variants, but I've yet to find any with the available Seating options amongst their display stock. i.e the Autotrails' on display, will have forward inward facing bench seating, not the half-dinette or full dinette factory order options. The "options models" available TO ORDER, by customers are usually delived to the Dealer & then the Buyer in quick succession, so there is a very limited opportunity to view by the browsing public on a dealers' forecourt. A Show gives the opportunity to explore / discuss the options in depth with the Manufacturers Representatives who should have more information than the Dealers' Salespeople. Ah that explains it Thanks. I didn't know you could get those alternative layouts in the same model. (The new Chieftan I saw in Brownhills has a cavernous garage, but consequently a high rear bed.) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Colin Leake Posted January 12, 2012 Share Posted January 12, 2012 I would go to a show or the factory at Grimsby and talk direct to AutoTrail. In our experience they are very customer friendly. I can't say for certain but I'm willing to bet that given your circumstances they would go to any length to meet your requirements. Please let us all know how you get on and good luck. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 13, 2012 Author Share Posted January 13, 2012 WEll , what can I say Flicka your a star ..On other forums they mark this by saying this poster has been thanked 100 times :D :D I can only say thanks for taking the time and trouble to get your head around what we need .. I have a blinking headache thinking about it . Also it means so much this time this is the 4th and last one we will ever buy .. I remeber thinking the Hobby we had would be better . Bad decision bought ordered brand new picked up Oct sold to that man Jan lost 5000. Him in doors went bleeding mad :D Only money :D :D :-( Thanks also for the Pm will check that out great again. I agree with Flicka about the shows and to be honest I prefer the shows you definately see more . So thanks to everyone we will be going to the Feb show as suggested ..IF I could upload a photo I would but the answer is NO one static moulded wheelchair especially made for her that does in no way fold. I give up the last one came off its frame and although we couldnt get it through the door we managed to take in half (seat off of frame) and we managed to get it in the drivers door and pass it over to the back . Thanks again . EVERYONE ! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Keithl Posted January 13, 2012 Share Posted January 13, 2012 Hi Michele, Another option that I've just thought of that maybe you have looked at previously but if not a possible answer to your problem. How about transporting the wheelchair(s) on a rack on the back? A bit like a scooter rack. I'm sure I've seen something advertised, possibly in MMM even. This way you would not need a huge garage or wide door to get them into the MH. And I'm sure if you contact the Auto Trail factory they would accommodate you on a factory tour to see exactly how they're built and hopefully show you a double dinette model with 6 travel seats. Keith. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 14, 2012 Author Share Posted January 14, 2012 Keithl - 2012-01-13 11:38 PM Hi Michele, Another option that I've just thought of that maybe you have looked at previously but if not a possible answer to your problem. How about transporting the wheelchair(s) on a rack on the back? A bit like a scooter rack. I'm sure I've seen something advertised, possibly in MMM even. This way you would not need a huge garage or wide door to get them into the MH. And I'm sure if you contact the Auto Trail factory they would accommodate you on a factory tour to see exactly how they're built and hopefully show you a double dinette model with 6 travel seats. Keith. Thank you , Yes as you say we have thought of it .Its the size it would make the vehicle really , No bother to either of us BUt we think maybe a little to big for some places . Also we have thought of towing a little trailer behind but we came to the same conclusion . In the end I know we will end up going for the garage one with DD I hope I can find one with DD . really in makes sense because Freddie has some bad days and as of late more bad then good so we need the fixed bed to pu ther on and if we choose the lounge one I guess it would be taken up with two wheelchairs ..so its looking more like the garage one everyday .. Now just to go and spot the DD with garage check it out and see if its going to do us . Of course the other prob is Hubby like much better the Bessie . I don't want to slate other people choice but I think this comes from a holiday up the Alps in snow at Xmas . Basically our friend had the Chyanne (sorry spelling ) they didnt fair well up the Alps, not sure because we are not that into the specs but we at the time decided that it couldnt of be winterised they bloody froze . Their toilet froze and stayed solid and the water wouldnt run from the sink . We sat as warm as toast and nothing froze . So hubbys still banging on about Bessie . I have to say it will be our third Bessie , Do you think he likes them :D Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
maggyd Posted January 14, 2012 Share Posted January 14, 2012 Have you looked at the second hand stock here chel http://www.brownhills.co.uk/16554-fiat-autotrail-chieftain-3-0-jtd-157bhp.html# Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 14, 2012 Author Share Posted January 14, 2012 That cheiftan is exactly what I want with garage but it must have double dinette . As we cant get a fixing on the long seats to safely harness the kids in each with different probs. Mikey a lap belt travelling backwards is ok. Rose ditto. Francessca Crelling harness as she has CPalsy Freddie well what can I say about fred ...Crelling harness again. Frankie & Fred each have a Wheelchair ... Someone tell me how to upload photos again its a bloody pain .I gave up the upload years ago. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
flicka Posted January 14, 2012 Share Posted January 14, 2012 michele - 2012-01-13 11:18 PM WEll , what can I say Flicka QUOTE] Sorry Michelle, I think it's YOU that deserves the applause, here & I'm sure many others hold the same opinion. As one of the forum long termers, I think I have a reasonably good understanding of what you do for the children & what's the good of any knowledge if it's not shared. Good luck when you go to the Show @ Excel. BTW - Neither the Bessacarr (or Swift KonTiki equivelant) or the Autotrail are winterised vans. For a winterised van the Dethleffs Advantage A7871-2 is their equivelant. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 14, 2012 Author Share Posted January 14, 2012 OMG , I feel so humble in your presence . I choose to do this and will do it till I die , what about the people that don't choose. Stop making my head feel so big . I don't deserve it at all. I love what I do and couldnt leave my kids behind as some Fc do . Bloody hard work but thats because I choose to take them withus .. Such a nice guy. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mel B Posted January 14, 2012 Share Posted January 14, 2012 This is the Dethleffs one: http://www.pullingers.co.uk/newveh/025.htm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jhorsf Posted January 14, 2012 Share Posted January 14, 2012 It takes a special kind of person to do what you do Michele your a Mum in a Million Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michele Posted January 15, 2012 Author Share Posted January 15, 2012 Mel , thanks dear . Sorry for your trouble BUT I went off to look only to find its exactly what we had in the Hobby. Tag axel exact same inside . You cant get your bum on that side long bench seat and the cupboards were so small I couldnt get even a sauce bottle in standing up. The garage was fantastic especially I remember when one of the kids got sick I remember having no where to wash the sleeping bag so I bundled it up in a black sack and slung it in the garage . Alas it had to go we owned it for a grand total from Oct til Jan and lost £5000 selling it silly me. So Thanks for looking . Jhorsf ,And you stop making my head so big . Its a calling I'll give you that :D Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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