The Al-Ko Caravan Chassis (Aks 3004); Chassis Members; Independent Suspension; Coupling Head - Bailey Pursuit Owner's Manual

12. THE AL-KO CARAVAN CHASSIS
(AKS 3004)

Chassis Members

The recommended tow vehicle coupling height
is 385mm +/- 35mm from the ground to the
centre of the ball.
Off road vehicles are exempt from
this towball height specification.
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- 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.
The galvanised chassis should not be
painted or subjected to any other protective
treatment.
Should the galvanising become superficially
damaged exposing the steel core, this should
be cleaned and treated with a cold galvanising
spray obtainable from vehicle accessory
outlets.
Damage to chassis members through impact
etc. must not be straightened or welded.
Damaged chassis members must be replaced.
Drilling or Welding of Parts or
!
Accessories
This chassis is designed and built to
precise tolerances and must not be
drilled or welded.

Independent Suspension

The AL-KO rubber suspension is designed and
developed to suit all types of road conditions
and is maintenance-free. Three rubber
elements are contained within a hexagonal
axle tube. These provide suspension and have
inherent damping characteristics. (Only the
hubs and wheel brakes require attention, see
axle booklet Part No. 580458.)

Coupling Head

The ball couplings are entirely automatic
in operation and designed for one-hand
operation to suit the 50mm international
ball recommended by the British Standards
Institution, National Caravan Council and the
Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Brake Drum/Hub Assembly

The Euro Axle fitted to your Bailey caravan
comes complete with maintenance-free
wheel bearings greased and serviced for life.
Adjustment is not required during the design
life of the sealed bearing (100,000 km).
• If replacement of the brake drum or
shoes is required, this must be carried
out by authorised AL-KO Service Centres.
Specialist tools and equipment are
required. The rear hexagonal bolt covered
by a black plastic cover must NEVER be
touched.
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