Technical information

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Chapter 4 CARAVAN EQUIPMENT
THE ALKO CARAVAN CHASSIS
Chassis members
The ALKO lightweight chassis has been perfected by many years of
research and development, supported by an exhaustive test programme.
Manufactured from high quality steel, the chassis has extra deep sections
to provide strength at points of maximum stress. Large elongated holes
are punched in the longitudinal and towbar, (‘A’ frame) members, to
reduce weight to a minimum. Each hole incorporates a return flange to
maintain the required strength and provide rigidity in the extra deep
sections.
The chassis frame is of a bolted construction which, should the need arise,
allows replacement of individual parts.
The chassis is Hot Dipped Galvanised. This is regarded as one of the best
forms of corrosion protection. It does however require minimal
maintenance in certain circumstances.
When new the chassis is of a bright and shining appearance. As the
galvanising cures during the initial 2 to 3 month period, this will gradually
change to a medium to dark grey colour. This grey finish is the ideal,
giving the correct protective coating. During this curing period the surface
should be protected to avoid possible wet storage stain, in the form of a
soft, light coloured, porous, oxidation layer. If the chassis members are
in contact with any salt deposits from roads this should immediately be
washed off with a high pressure washer. Salt attracts moisture allowing
the surfaces to remain wet, this prevents curing and also allows formation
of wet storage stain.
It is recommended that the chassis be washed off, using a pressure washer
on an annual basis (particularly after winter usage) to avoid undesirable
build up of salt and dirt deposits.