The Role Of Coupling Dampers

Customers frequently ask, “How long will the caravan dampers last and how long do they last?’. The answer isn’t easy and is contingent on a myriad of variables. The typical lifespan of dampers is between 50,000 and 100,000km however this depends on factors such as wear and terrain and installation.

First of all, it’s essential to know a bit about dampers and how they help keep your vehicle on the road.

Dampers could be the most under-appreciated component of any caravan’s crucial system. Did you know that dampers can help keep your tyres on the ground?

Caravan leaf springs, or those on trailers, are the main source of damping, and dampers enhance the ride by decreasing excessive bounce.

Springs move at the natural rate until their energy is completely dispersed. So, we put in dampers to reduce the force of the bouncing motion by an process known as dampening.

Worn coupling dampers lose compression. This can be caused by tiny holes in the shock absorber’s outer tube, caused by striking rock with a distance of 100 km or more during travel.

How long will caravan dampers last? is a good question as it can be used to draw the possibility of comparing two kinds of owners of caravans.

The Two Major Kinds of Travellers

Reactive owners replace dampers, bearings, and other components after they have failed.

Proactive owners repair dampers, bearings and other wearable parts before they fail.

When your shock absorber has been secured in the position with two bolts it’s an easy removal procedure. To test compression , pull the bolt open, then press it closed. If the shock absorber is pulled open quickly, it may need replacement.

The most evident sign of the wear of a shock absorber is the amount of stones chips. The stones can break as mentioned previously, but they’re an excellent indicator of wear and tear on the shock absorber.

The most effective caravan dampers available to buy are Alko as well as Couplemate dampers. There are a variety of particular shock absorber manufacturers available that provide various heights that are not standard.

What is the reason for different heights? The height of the standard installation is around 300mm.

The height of the tyre is determined by its height and more importantly, tent height. If the height is greater or less than 300mm, specially-branded dampers are employed.

Influencing Factors

Shock Absorber Installation

The longevity of your shock absorber for your caravan is dependent on the correct installation.

The specific installation guidelines can differ since the optimal place to mount the shock absorber is dependent on the size of the wheel and the spring type. We suggest a certified service mechanic (either car or caravan) to install the dampers.

Travel Terrain

The type of terrain that dampers move through will be a major factor in the lifespan for the damper.

The use of only normal bitumen roads will reduce wear and tear on the caravan’s dampers and extend their life. However, long time on rough and rocky terrain can put more stress on the dampers and they are also at risk of being damaged to the tube’s exterior due to stones and other debris off-road.

A lot of times, carrying large loads or driving off-track, cracks, potholes and ridges can cause the same damage.

When should I replace my Dampers?

Couplemate suggests not using the time or mileage as a sign that dampers are in good condition to be replaced. Instead, checking regularly your dampers for leaks or damages is the best option. In general, you should check your dampers following the initial 40,000km each year after that, and then every year after that.

There is a tendency to see an improvement in performance when your dampers are in good shape and ready to be replaced. A good indicator that your dampers require some attention are excessive bouncing or swaying in the tow vehicle, or hearing a loud thud when you’re bottoming out on rough terrain.

Here’s a suggestion If your dampers appear old after the first inspection, purchase a new set for the next time you need to service them. If you intend to put them in ‘DIY’ then you’re ready in case they do not pass once removed. If they pass after testing, you have replacements on in case they fail.