Product Prep & Spring To-Do
As spring approaches, the anticipation for camping season begins to bloom! After a long winter of biting cold, snow, and ice across the nation, many of us are eager to break free from the confines of our indoor spaces. The excitement is palpable as adventurers prepare to hit the great outdoors, and I can’t stress enough how important it is to ensure you're ready for your first trip. If you own a BundutecUSA Truck Camper, BunduTop, BunduAwn, BunduTrail, or even another brand, a little prep can go a long way! Trust me: testing your systems and running a trial can ease stress and bring peace of mind. Imagine the joy
Truck Camper Owners
The first task is to prep your water system. Ensure that all low-point drains are securely closed — this prevents overflow and makes filling the tank easier. Depending on your model, these low-point drains may be located near the water tankor, if you have an indoor shower, in that area. Don’t forget to close the brass drain on your Truma Water Heater too; if you’ve set the bypass to prevent water from entering, you’ll need to switch it back to the open position.
Once everything is sealed, it’s time to fill your tank! Connect your garden hose to the fill port on the docking station and ensure the blue valve is set to the tank-fill position.
Keep an eye on your fresh water tank while filling — open the door and listen for any unusual spraying sounds. If something seems off, shut off the water and inspect your lines for possible leaks or cracks. If everything checks out, fill up your tank completely, turn on your water pump, and open the sink faucet until you get a steady stream. Remember to switch to the hot-water side to fill your water heater and allow air to escape. After the system is filled, let it sit for a bit and perform a final leak check. That’s it! Your water system is now ready for the camping season!
Next up: battery health. If your battery has been dormant all winter with the red master disconnect switch off, simply turn it back on and plug into shore power to recharge. Batteries can lose charge over time, so it’s crucial to ensure yours is fully charged and capable of holding that charge before you embark on your adventure
A quick tip: your fridge will be your biggest power draw. We keep ours set to 3; on sunny days with full solar, we might crank it a bit colder, but we always dial it down at night to conserve energy
Once your systems are charged, it’s time for a walk-around inspection! This is your chance to check the integrity of any silicone seals or putty tape. Use a plastic butter knife to trim any excess putty that may have oozed out, giving your camper a neat look for the spring. Keeping these seals in good condition throughout the season is vital; if the putty has stopped oozing or any silicone is cracked, give the area a thorough clean and apply fresh, clear silicone to reseal it.
Finally, let’s check for any pesky critters! If your camper has been stored for a while, inspect the compartments and cubbies for signs of rodent activity. Look out for droppings or chew marks on your electrical components. Once you’ve tackled these checkpoints, you’re ready to “camp” right in your driveway or set off on your first wilderness adventure
BunduTop Owners
One of the delights of our imported products from South Africa is their simplicity; with fewer moving parts, both spring setup and fall stow-away become a breeze. For my fellow BunduTop enthusiasts, the first step is to check the health of your operating battery. Just like prepping a truck camper, ensuring your battery is fully charged is essential before hitting the open road. While you can lift and lower the tent manually, trust me, it’s not the most ideal way to get your workout in!
Once your main power battery is fully charged, it’s time to raise your tent and let it breathe. I recommend removing the mattress, or at least placing something beneath it, to promote airflow around it. I like to make the bed at the beginning of the season so it's all set for the first adventure.
While the tent is open, take a moment to inspect your rainfly bungees and lift system ropes. Check for fraying and ensure the bungees retain plenty of elasticity.
If your BunduTop has add-on features such as the Annex Roof, Solar, or BunduSuite, check any added rivets to ensure they are sealed with silicone to reduce the risk of water penetration. With our imported products featuring fewer moving parts, that’s pretty much the extent of my spring prep for my BunduTop when camping season rolls around. Now, let’s get ready to explore!
BunduAwn Owners
Getting your BunduAwn ready for spring might seem daunting at first, but don’t worry—it has fewer moving parts than you might think, making it a breeze to inspect and prep!
Start by unzipping the bag. Be mindful as you do so; if it feels a bit too sticky or stiff, don’t hesitate to grab some natural beeswax, which you can easily find on Amazon. A little goes a long way and makes it slide like new!
Once you’ve got the cover open, it’s time to unfold the awning. If you’re indoors or it’s a calm, breezy day, you can leave the guide ropes tucked away. However, I still suggest securing it at a couple of points while you continue your pre-trip check. Safety first!
As your awning unfolds, take a moment to inspect the lift arms—they’re critical for channeling run-off. Ensure they’re in good shape and not bent. If you find a small lift arm that’s a bit off, don’t panic! These are made of spring steel, so you can easily bend them back into shape. While you’re at it, check that they deploy correctly; sometimes, you might lose the cap at the top without even realizing it.
Next, thoroughly inspect the canvas material. Look for any holes or wear that could compromise its integrity. If you spot any light patches, it might just be the reflective coating rubbing off. A quick spritz of silver spray paint on the top will help keep the light at bay.
If your awning feels a little stiff when you open it, a light application of silicone spray to the bolts will ensure smooth sailing for the season ahead.
BunduTRail Owners
The BunduTrail is a fascinating hybrid unit that takes the best features of a Truck Camper, BunduTop, and BunduAwn, all rolled into one compact design. While it may require a bit more spring prep compared to the BunduTop and BunduAwn, fear not—it’s quite manageable and totally worth it!
Start your prep by filling up the fresh water tank, just like you would with a traditional truck camper. Listen closely for any hissing or spraying sounds that could signal a leak in the system. Once you've got that tank full, run the sink to ensure the system is flowing beautifully. Don’t forget to give all visible water lines a quick inspection to catch any potential drips from frozen pipes.
With your water system sorted, it's time to charge up the battery to make sure it’s ready to go. Once fully charged, you can pop open the tent for a thorough canvas and lift rope inspection—keep an eye out for any fraying or damage that could affect your camping experience.
Don’t stop there! Extend your awning and privacy room and inspect them for any signs of wear or holes. A little natural beeswax can work wonders on stubborn zippers, making them glide smoothly for your next adventure.
Lastly, open up all your compartments to let them breathe and ensure no critters have taken up residence during their hibernation! With these steps completed, you’ll be well on your way to a fantastic camping season. Enjoy the journey!
Notes for Everyone
Taking care of your canvas gear is key to ensuring it lasts for 5 to 15 years, and we're here to help you maximize its lifespan! Start by giving it a deep clean with a pH-neutral soap, like Dawn, and a soft brush. This gentle approach will clear away that stubborn winter dust without damaging the important water-resistant or reflective coatings.
If your equipment is a bit older or you live in a sun-drenched area, consider sprucing it up with a 303 aerosol protectant. This will provide added UV protection for your fabric and vinyl bags, helping them withstand the elements.
Just like your vehicle, regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your gear in top shape, ensuring you get the best long-term use. If you come across something during the inspection that leaves you scratching your head, don’t hesitate! Our factory team or trusted service partners are just a call away, ready to lend a helping hand. Here’s to a fantastic camping season ahead—we're excited to support your adventures!
