Hi I'm in the process of buying a raclet solena for me and my daughter to use in the school holidays (with bedroom annexe incase hubby wants to join us). Just wanted to ask a couple of questions about it. I've given up tent camping- couldn't even lift our khyam rigidome never mind put it up on my own, didn't want to tow a caravan, don't have a big car, so thought the solena would be a good compromise. I've had a go at putting it up at the dealers and it seemed really easy, too easy infact!! Is it as easy to put up out and about, without a convenient flat concrete floor? Also I didn't try putting up the awning, is that easy to put up? I'm not very tall.
i'm afraid i can not give any first had knowalge of the solena,but there is no reason why it should not be as easy to use on site.as to the awning,thats another story,as with most tt's the awnigs are heavy,so it may be a struggle for you.i think you will find that someone will always be willing to help(once they stop laughing at you struggling),also take a set of steps,as these will help no end.
I manage to put mine up on my own. I manage the awning with a single caravan step (I'm 5' 6"). I also make sure the butterfly bars on the main cabin are dropped as that gives a bit of ease when trying to attach the two zips at the apex. Once it is zipped in it's a piece of cake just can be tricky until then as the weight of the awning keeps pulling it away from the frame.
I have a few wooden blocks to use to level the lid or raise the wheels as I have yet to find a level pitch.
thanks for your replies- I'll make sure I have a set of steps with me! And thanks Fiona I'll heed your advice- failing that I'll just look pathetic and hope someone comes to the rescue!!
Glad to be of help. I am sure you won't regret the Solena. It has given me a whole new perspective on life and more opportunities for getting away than I ever thought I would have. Didn't camp for over 30 years before last year.
I am positively itching to get the trailer ready for Easter - I take the canvas off over winter and store it in the airing cupboard, and have stuff put away in every corner of the house - and have to keep reminding myself that it is still only february so I should wait a few more weeks before putting it all back together and load it ready for the off.
I feel the same way about itching to get out and about, a little glimpse of sunshine is all it takes! After last years tent camping trip I found it to be a bit too much work and didn't bother with the usual weekends away - I love the idea that I can leave everything loaded and just hitch up and drive away! No more headaches packing the car and putting it all away when we get home. And no more crawling about on the floor! Do you find the bed comfortable? I've read a post that says they put a duvet on top of the mattress, although I think that was an older model.
I've spoken to the dealer this morning and they have kindly said I can have a go at putting up the awning when I collect it- we don't have enough space at home to practice.
Mine is an older model - 2004 - and the bed base is solid mdf. The newer ones are slatted bases and probably lighter. I am thinking of doing some adapting to make it a bit lighter and to allow the air to circulate better.
I have a thick foam mattress approx 3" deep - probably the original. On top of that I also have a lambswool mattress cover that I was given so I am more than snug and don't particularly feel the base.
I guess you'll find out what works best for you but I put all the awning poles in their positions and fastened together but compacted and drop the front poles as low as I can. I pull the awning canvas over the top to help take the weight and get the zips fastened at the apex (don't forget to drop the butterfly bars on the cabin) Once it is zipped in place then raise the butterfly bars and the front legs then start extending the poles until it is all square.
I have been really lucky in that I have never had to put it up in heavy rain or wind so don't know if it will be as straight forward in those conditions.
I use those roll up vacuum type bags for the awning roof liner and curtains and they live in the base. I leave the cabin liner in situ all season as well as the cabin curtains.
That's great that the dealer is going to let you practice before taking it out. I hope it all goes well for you. When are you picking it up?
yes I have one of these and have found it to be superb. the roof becomes the floor and is really solid to walk on. The space under the bed is great storage so no need to pack each time you go away cos it all stays in the trailer except bedding. .I have loved mine but am now moving to a camper van so if you are interested in buying check my advert or email me autuma57 at hotmail.com
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Topic: raclet solena
