Once our tourers reach a certain age, they can be expected to start to show signs of wear and tear, with bits beginning to break off. However, finding parts for older caravans might require patience and persistence. This is where knowing how to source spare parts for an older caravan comes in.
The best used caravans can offer a budget-friendly way of entering the world of caravanning, as my recent purchase of Penny, a 1998 Bailey tourer, from Facebook Marketplace shows. However, it’s almost inevitable that an older van like this will need some work done.
Dealerships will typically work with caravans up to around 10 years old, but once they’re beyond mid-life (around 10-20 years old), it moves into the ‘properly old’ territory, at which point signs of wear and tear are likely to become more apparent. However, the good news is that sourcing the spare parts you need can generally be done, even if it does take a bit of resourcefulness, as I showed when finding the spare parts for Penny.
If you find yourself in a similar position, I’m here to help, as I share my top tips to set you on your way to sourcing the right spare parts for your tourer.
1. Know your vehicle
Many caravan models are sold under different names. Penny is a Bailey Mere Delamere, but was broadly identical to the Bailey Ranger. Searching for parts for a Ranger is far easier than looking up dealer specials.
2. Find a part number
If you have a part that is damaged, you can likely find some sort of part number, manufacturer name, SKU or other identifier. You can then punch this into Google to obtain more information.
3. Stakeout
Keep your eyes peeled when you are on site. With easily visible parts, such as windows and lights, make a note of makes and models you observe that seem to share parts. It will let you widen your search.
4. Reverse image search
Many modern mobiles will allow you to search the internet using a photo. My experience of this hasn’t been the greatest, but if you are looking for something with a particular pattern or a specific appearance, you might just get lucky.
5. Hit the phones
Caravan breakers are buried in vague email enquiries and often don’t get around to responding. Call the breakers on the phone. Even if they don’t have exactly what you need, they may have something compatible, or be able to tell you what information you’ll need to track down your item.
6. Be compatible
Parts for modern vans may well be backwards compatible. Get a tape measure on the old parts. Items such as rooflights, electrical components or kitchen appliances may be upgradeable to later versions, rather than scouring the market in an attempt to track down elderly original parts.
After carrying out repairs to your tourer, you’ll want to ensure you have a suitable towing vehicle before heading off on your next trip. If you’re on the lookout for a pre-owned vehicle, our guide to where to buy a used car in the UK will set you on your way to finding the one for you.
Future Publishing Limited, the publisher of Practical Caravan, provides the information in this article in good faith and makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Individuals carrying out the instructions do so at their own risk and must exercise their independent judgement in determining the appropriateness of the advice to their circumstances and skill level. Individuals should take appropriate safety precautions and be aware of the risk of electrocution when dealing with electrical products. To the fullest extent permitted by law, neither Future nor its employees or agents shall have any liability in connection with the use of this information. You should check that any van warranty will not be affected before proceeding with DIY projects.
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