Hi Eriba people!

We currently have a Gobur Carousel (folding caravan - not a folding camper) which we’re really happy with, but we’re looking to replace with a larger van. Went to AdventureLV for a look at the Eriba range and the Troll 540 seems perfect for us.

Would appreciate any views on the below (or links to where these have been answered before). Thanks in advance for the help.

- Noise/light/heat loss through pop-up roof fabric. Is that a problem and if so what are the options? Our current folding van is solid when raised so has none of these issues. Found this link What's the pop-top like in cold weather?

- Stone chip protector - is that an essential?

- Aluminium vs white finish - pros/cons of each (keeping in good condition and repairs to bumps/scratches)? We like a retro/quirky look so either would be fine.

- Front locker isn’t very big. Where do you store levelling ramps/chocs, hookup cable, car mirrors etc?

- Truma gas heating system - is it noisy and can it be used at night?

- Blackout blinds - seemed to be a gap at bottom (meaning they aren’t actually blackout…)

- Winter storage (is it ok to store outdoors or get a cover?) We’re building an extension with garage next year so looking at 1 winter storage.

- Shower - looks tiny but same as a campervan we used in NZ. Fine for a quick rinse. Any views on this?

Thanks again!
Mark

Hi Mark and welcome to the Forum. We got a silver Troll 540GT last summer and we love it. The silver glints on a sunny day - we use Autoglym cleaner and resin polish to keep it sparkling and haven't noticed and dints on the body so far. So silver for us every time.

We love the canvas pop-up sides to the roof as if you open the vents you get lots of fresh air inside so it gives you the best of tenting with the luxury of a smart caravan. In frosty weather you simply zip them up. We use the Truma heater to get the van warm and then turn it off and use a tiny oil-filled radiator to maintain the heat.

We don't use the shower at all, preferring to use the site facilities, although I have washed my feet in it once.

Loads of space to store in the van - under the front dining area is useful but we leave a lot of things in our estate car.

For winter storage we bought a Kampa cover from AL in Poole and it fits the Troll really well. It survived some very strong winter gales in one piece.

EribaMotters suggestion about the motor mover is a good one and it makes life so easy.

We would recommend a Troll 540 to anyone. Sometimes at home when I can't find my wife she is sitting on the drive in the Troll having a brew!!!

Mike T

If it's very windy or noisy at night, I close the roof. I'm quite short so having the roof down doesn't bother me at all, and hubby isn't very tall either. But as has been said, with the zips open, you get a lovely breeze going through the van.
Wouldn't dream of having a shower - I think the water would get everywhere. Our heater had already been removed to we use a tiny oil-filled radiator.
Our blinds close perfectly.... can't comment on the paint finish - our Betty is 20 years old and just lovely! You'll love it!

Prefer the dimpled finish - has that retro feel and as has been pointed out it does avoid the rippled panel thing. It's your choice.
With the roof down and blinds down it's as dark as you like - however, the fixed air vent above the beds does kind of spoil that at it is translucent :)
Gas heater is dead quiet in operation - wouldn't want to leave it on overnight though - on the Triton it is in direct contact with corner of duvet/bedding when in place.
Ramps etc go in side locker - under front seats or in the plastic crates in the back of the car.
No bathroom in the 410 - waste of space IMVHO. Kampa King Khazi for overnight or more if needed - works fine. Kitchen area larger feel. More elbow room for washing at sink or use site facilities. No water heater, tanks, pipes etc to worry about over winter.
If you get a mover fitted make sure you get the isolator moved so it can be accessed from side locker from the outside - picked that tip up on this forum and it is so useful!

Thanks for everyone's help and time in responding!
Cheers Mark.