June 22, 2005:

Last year’s Subaru-Jayco Central Australian towing safari emphatically showed that Jayco’s Outback models can handle most road conditions.

From such a rigorous test, Jayco gave its camper trailers a tick by adding just subtle changes to its 2005 range that reflect more on the look of the camper trailers both internally and externally, rather than anything structural.

The only significant change for Outback models in Jayco’s 30th anniversary year was that the battery provision is now standard to give the camper more independence from reliance on power supplies when in remote areas.

Other 2005 changes were cosmetic, with a Mineral tent section colour now available and new fabric colours are used inside. Beige laminex is also being used in all models. Solid draws are also being used with separate draw faces and brushed aluminium appliances are now standard.

All camper trailer boots now have a special fitting to securely store the winder.

The Central Australia test safari saw experienced motoring writers using Subaru Outbacks towing Jayco Outback camper trailers a compact Outback Expanda. Rigs, all fitted with Hayman Reese towing hitches, went over a range of road conditions similar to most roads likely to be encountered in any of Australia’s remote regions. The rigs were and all passed with flying colours.

Because the Subaru-Jayco safari included dusty road sections in the MacDonnell Ranges RV vents were taped up with plastic to reduce dust intruding inside. It’s an old caravanner’s trick that reduces the amount of dust that gets in, but it remains critical to remember to remove the plastic before using the gas. Even stick a note on your gas appliances inside as a reminder.

All the motoring writers were pleasantly surprised at the comfortable sleeping arrangements that included beds that slide outside from the front and rear of each camper’s superstructure.

Jayco’s Outback campers all have the large wheel boxes for bigger wheels and tyres (max 786mm depth x 275mm width). That gives the camper the capacity to match the wheels of all-wheel drive Subarus and 4WDs such as the 100 series Landcruisers and Nissan Patrols. Jayco also offers the option of 265170R16 tyres.

All Jayco Outback models have the “A” frame depth reduced to allow for greater ground clearance and to help drop the towball weight.

The aluminium framing has additional diagonal bracing giving extra strength to side frames and checker plate aluminium cladding on the bottom section of side and rear ends of the frame provide extra protection.

Molded wheel arch surrounds and a jack are standard for changing wheels. All 2005 Outback models have a vinyl spare wheel cover as standard.

Outback campers are built on Jayco’ unique galvanised Millennium chassis using larger main chassis members than conventional models and an underslung axle is used with ALKO Outback leaf spring suspension.

Built-in dampeners that use longer springs than conventional leaf springs are part of the suspension to give a softer more forgiving ride. When under a load or hitting bumps dampeners come into play, taking up the load and extra stresses. Shock absorbers with guards and a rubber bump-stop are also fitted to safeguard against heavier impacts. A guard protects the water tank.

Inside, a 12 volt internal PowerPoint has been added replaced by a cigarette-type connection.

Seating has foam cushioning of a higher density than other brands for extra comfort and easy-to-maintain cushion and curtain materials come in a new colour range.

On reaching your location, camper trailers take just minutes to set-up revealing spacious accommodation. There are a gas stove, three-way refrigerator, highly functional kitchen bench, storage cupboards and under-seat lockers and wide beds, including even a child restraint on the rear bed. Some models have a fold-up (and down) wardrobe

The stove’s built-in safety cut-off automatically operates should the flame accidentally go out. The stove also includes an electric plate, so when in a park it can use power to conserve gas, an important consideration if you plan to leave a park for more remote regions.

Lighting works off 12-volt, via the 240 12-volt converter, which also can operate as a trickle feed auxiliary battery charger. When an optional 12-volt auxiliary battery is fitted you can still achieve the same light as that from a 240-volt light source.

The overall towing height of Outback campers vary, depending on the size of the wheels and tyres used. The minimum increase is 250mm above a conventional camper. The height increase is virtually of no consequence in the towing performance of the overall rig.

…and for those who don’t need the tough stuff

While Jayco’s Outback camper trailers are in demand with all-wheel and 4WD owners, standard on-road models remain popular with people with smaller tow vehicles, who want a recreational vehicle that easily tows on sealed roads yet offers plenty of room for families.

It’s the many sleeping configurations available that are a real attraction for families. Larger camper trailers sleep up to seven and are very popular with children wanting to bring friends on holiday.

Most six-cylinder cars can tow bigger campers and four cylinder cars can tow smaller models.

When opened up on site, all but Penguin models expand dramatically, with double bed extensions front and rear. In Penguin models, designed very much for a couple, the sleeping accommodation is retained within the trailer, eliminating bed extensions.

Then there is the dinette table and seating, which can be converted to another double bed. In the larger models, the addition of a lounge adds to the sleeping arrangements. There is also surprising storage space in the under work-bench cabinet and the seat lockers.