If you have been following our post on 'disapointment...' you will see we have had problems with our new SV8 2006.
Now it turns out that Outwell are suspending sales on the 2006 model as a number of the tents have 'inherent defects'
We spent ages trying to decide between the monty 12 and the SV8.....ABC have offered us another SV8 to try, but I am just worried we will get another lemon.
SO...... any other owners of the 2006 model (this goes for SV6 owners too) got a problem? the defect is with the cut of the doorway/zips etc
We are going camping soon, so have limited time to find an unfaulty SV8....or maybe we are just unlucky. They cost so much you just want a grade 'A' tent
Please let us know, because to find out how wide spread these defective tents are would help our decision on what to do next.
If Outwell have taken the decision to suspend sales on the SV8, then they must think the problem is pretty widespread.
Do ABC have a Monty 12 in stock (unlikely, I know, as these seem to have been selling like hot cakes). If so, go for the Monty.
Otherwise, get a refund from ABC and see what else you can get. At the same time, get in touch with Outwell direct (I know I've seen reference to someone who is very good at sorting out problems there, I'm sure someone will come along and confirm who, I just can't find their name just now) and see if, in the circumstances, they could get you a Monty 12 quicker.
Also, going by the comments I've seen on here about ABC, you might be best shopping elsewhere - all depends on the treatment you've experienced first hand.
If your trip is really soon, and you can't get a monty 12, could you borrow a tent or buy something else for just now and sell it on when the monty's are available. I'm thinking especially of the Coleman Columbia 10, only £130 at www.e-awnings.co.uk. Three bedroom, full sig, be with you in a few days and highly recommended on this site (tent and retailer).
Outwell are not having a brilliant track record lately. Last year it was a recall on all the Montana poles, and this year it looks like a problem with the SV range.
It seems as though their quality control department is costing them a lot of money, and some owners a fair bit of inconvenience.
Outwell are not having a brilliant track record lately. Last year it was a recall on all the Montana poles, and this year it looks like a problem with the SV range.
It seems as though their quality control department is costing them a lot of money, and some owners a fair bit of inconvenience.
Following on from our previous conversations, I picked up my new Nebraska XL on Saturday.
I haven't had chance to erect it yet but I've checked all the poles are present. I've noticed that the poles have a bit of a patchy finish to them, gold in some places and silver in others, is this the way they're supposed to be?
Mine are sort of a two tone colour as well. The thing I find with all the Outwell steel poles ( The Lake range excluded as they are made from a different material ), is that once used they do go very off colour and you do get some oxidation where they join. Try to keep them dry and you will notice that they are greased slightly. I put silicone grease on mine. Be very carefull with the grease because if you apply too much it gets on the tent and it won't come off and leaves a stain. My Monty poles are exactly the same. What I don't know yet is what the condition of the poles would be in 3 years time.
Also be carefull with the roof poles when pulling them apart. If you pull too hard, the spring/elastic in the pole joining them gets pulled up the pole. The first time it happened to me, I had the pole replaced but it happened again to the same pole. I find the best way to fix this is go and buy a very thin fibreglass pole section. Put the tip down the pole and tap it down.
It's the same old story with most new designs whether tents, motherboards etc. It doesn't always pay to rush a buy a new model. Give it 3-6 months on the market then you should know whether there are any problems or not.
I waited until the Montana 6, 2005 had been out for 6 months and had the new poles with the tent so no issues.
I have spoken to P J Camping today where I bought my tent and they have been told by Outwell that there are around 80 tents with faults but that is all across Europe. All credit to PJ Camping..they are erecting one as we speak and if it is Ok will be sending this to me by courier and collecting the other one on friday.
At least I don't have to drive to Romford now! Lets hope that they find one without a fault!!
I have spoken to P J Camping today where I bought my tent and they have been told by Outwell that there are around 80 tents with faults but that is all across Europe. All credit to PJ Camping..they are erecting one as we speak and if it is Ok will be sending this to me by courier and collecting the other one on friday.
At least I don't have to drive to Romford now! Lets hope that they find one without a fault!!
Thats a long way to go and get a tent ( unless it was mail order ). PJ Camping is just down the road from me. I use them quite a lot and they are all great people down there. I have got to know them very well.
You're right it is a long way but I happened to be working down there on the day I picked it up...had heard good reviews about the place. Didn't think about what would happen if I had a faulty tent!!! You live and learn. having said that at least they are sorting it out without me re-visiting!!!
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: to all Sun Valley 8 2006 owners
