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LordAtManor

Hello

I'm looking to replace my current motorhome with a used model and I'm looking for one with the 3850 kg chassis, which limits my choice somewhat. I think I'm licensed to drive one, my current model is 3850 kg and I drove 7½ tonners around for years in the early 1970s.

I read a post here which said that many models can be re-plated from 3500 to 3850 since the chassis has already been uprated.

My questions are, how do I know if the chassis is the heavier type, even if plated at 3500, and, if it isn't, could it be mechanically upgraded and what does this involve ?

I'm looking at Hymer T-series, some of which are 3500 kg and some are 3850 kg. I wonder if they all have the same 3850 chassis ? Does the presence of a 2.8 JTD mean it's the 'maxi' chassis ?

RobinHood

Had mine re-plated at purchase from 3500 to 3850 (it was an option). It simply consisted of a new plate and documentation to satisfy the Vehicle Inspectorate, no modifications.

AFAIK, this can be done if it is a Maxi Chassis with Camping Car pack (which means it has uprated tyres capable of taking raised axle loads - conventionally Michelin Camping tyres). It may also mean uprated springs are fitted - but I've always doubted this.

Only clear way of checking for a Maxi chassis is by GVW and axle weights from the VIN plate. 3500kg GVW, 1850kg and 2120kg respectively for front and rear axle weights.

A quick way to be nearly certain is the wheel size - 16" on Maxi, 15" if not (or if older 14") - these could have been swapped on a non-maxi though.

Two companies specialising in uprating are TVAC and SVTECH, both can be found by web searches, and are in the Leyland area.

if you passed your test before 1997, you can drive up to 7.5tonnes on retained rights (though I believe there may be additional restrictions come in at age 70)

duc

Hi ,

if the chassis is equipped with 16 " tyres , than you have the Q18 Maxi chassis from Fiat or from ALKO

Q is the italian abreviation from " Quintale " = 100 kg

Q 18 is also for loading of max.1.800 kg.

for info,

duc