GOING Go-Pod!

General guidance

• It’s against the law for passengers to ride in a caravan in transit.
• You are subject to different speed limits when towing a caravan. These are 50mph on single carriageway roads and 60mph on dual carriageways and motorways (unless a lower limit is in force).
• It is your responsibility to ensure that you abide by weight restrictions. If in doubt, you can take your Go-Pod to a local public weigh bridge.
• When loading your Go-Pod, you should always ensure even weight distribution.
• As well as ensuring that you do not exceed the Go-Pods MTPLM when packing, you also need to check that you do not exceed your tow vehicles GTW (Gross Train Weight) figure, which is the maximum allowed weight of a fully laden caravan and tow vehicle. Failure to observe this figure can result in fines and potential damage to your tow vehicle.
• All cars have a maximum permitted noseweight figure, set by the manufacturer. This is the max load permitted on the towball.
• As with cars, tyres on caravans should be replaced frequently. It’s illegal to have a tread depth of less than 1.6mm for trailers & caravans under 3,500kg gross weight.
• Yearly services are recommended to ensure the integrity of the critical safety components.
• Insurance is not mandatory for caravans, but it is recommended to give you protection and peace of mind should any damage occur.
• Go-Pods should be registered with CRiS (the Central Registration & Identification System) as soon as reasonably possible after purchasing. This proves that you are the registered keeper of the Go-Pod, offers additional protection against theft, and may help to lower your insurance premium.

External dimensions

Internal dimensions

Towing

Before setting off for the first time, there are a few things that you’ll need to know and check to make sure that you’re fully prepared and legally able to tow a Go-Pod:

Driving licences & towing
Go-Pods are below the 3500kg restriction limit and can therefore be towed by drivers who have passed their test either before or after 1 January 1997. There is no need for any additional driving test and you do not need to inform your car insurance provider.
Those with driving licenses with medical restrictions should check with the DVLA before towing.
Driving mirrors
The Law requires that drivers of the towing vehicles have adequate view to the side and rear. With the Go-Pod, most vehicles existing side mirrors allow for a good view along the entire side of the caravan and extension mirrors are not therefore required. However if in doubt, mirror extensions should be employed.

Towing allowances

To determine whether your vehicle is suitable to tow a Go-Pod, you will need to find the ‘braked towing allowance’ figure in your V5C document (sometimes referred to as the vehicles ‘logbook’). Vehicles with an unbraked towing allowance of 750kg or more are suitable for towing Go-Pods with a ‘plated weight’ (check info section on first inside page of this manual) of 750kg.
For Go-Pods with a plated weight of 1,000kg, your vehicle will require a braked towing allowance of 1,000kg or more.

Towing equipment

After checking your vehicles V5C document to ascertain whether it is suitable for towing a Go-Pod, you’ll need the following equipment fitted to your car:
Tow bar & 50mm tow ball
A standard 50mm tow ball is required to hitch to the Go-Pod. There are a few different styles available on the market. The image to the right shows a standard fixed tow ball.
There are also ‘flange’ tow bars, which allow the tow ball to swing underneath the car when not in use, and ‘detachable’ tow bars which can be removed entirely.

13-pin towing electrics

13-pin Euro socket towing electrics will power the towing lights, charge the on-board leisure battery and allow the refrigerator to run in transit. 7-pin electrics will only operate the driving lights, and will require an adaptor to connect to the Go-Pods socket.
A 13-pin tow electric connection can also be used to top up your leisure battery while the vehicle engine is running if you do not have access to mains electricity while away – if you are staying off-grid, for example.

Tyres & gas bottles

Tyre sizes & pressure

The tyre pressure should be 35 psi. The wheel nut torque is 65lbs for standard wheels and 95lbs for alloys.

Please replace Go-Pod trailer tyres with the same type as fitted – 175/70R13 86N – which can normally be purchased from online tyre dealerships.

A suitable alternative for Go-Pods with a weight rating (plated weight, found on VIN plate) of 750kg is the 175/70R13 82T.

A full spare tyre is stored beneath the rear of your caravan, below the door. This can be accessed by unscrewing a central securing nut. Please take due care as you lower it.

Suitable gas bottles

Flogas 3.9kg propane Flogas 4.5kg butane Campingaz R907 Gaslow 2.7kg butane Tyre sizes & pressure There are several gas bottles suitable for use in the Go-Pods available on the UK market.
More info at https://www.go-pods.co.uk/gas-bottles.
Please note that different regulators may be required to use certain gas bottles.

• Flogas 3.9kg propane
  
• Flogas 4.5kg butane
  
• Campingaz R907
  
• Gaslow 2.7kg butane
  

Hitching – components

Hitch components

List of components used for hitching up.

Handbrake
Manually applies the handbrake to prevent movement of the Go-Pod.
Jockey wheel
Keeps the Go-Pod level and steady and allows movement without use of a towing vehicle.
Clamp
Secures the jockey wheel in the current position.
Jockey wheel winder
Used to raise and lower the jockey wheel.
Towing electrics
Connects to the 13-pin Euro electrics socket. Powers driving lights and charges the leisure battery
Coupling head
Attaches to the tow ball to form a secure connection with the towing vehicle.
Handle
Used to release the coupling head from the tow ball.
Breakaway cable
Failsafe device that will automatically apply the brakes of the Go-Pod in the event of decoupling from the tow ball in transit.

Hitching – operation

Operation – level ground

IMPORTANT: If your Go-Pod is not on level ground, do not disengage the handbrake as this will cause it to roll. You should move the tow vehicle into position instead.

1. Disengage handbrake & move into position First you’ll need to disengage the handbrake to allow you to move your Go-Pod into position. Raise the jockey wheel (wind clockwise) so that it is slightly higher than the top of the tow ball, then move the coupling head directly above the tow ball.
2. Wind jockey wheel down until coupling head is securely attachedNext, wind the jockey wheel down (wind counter-clockwise) until it connects with the tow ball. You’ll know that it is connected
   when the handle clicks into the downright position, and the green indicator in front of the handle pops up. To ensure that the coupling head is firmly connected with the tow ball, wind the tow bar up and the car should lift slightly.
3. Attach breakaway cable and connect towing electrics Loop the red breakaway cable over the coupling head and tow ball, and then connect the Go-Pods electric plug to your vehicles 13 pin Euro electrics socket.
4. Wind jockey wheel up, lift and clamp into position Last of all, you should wind the jockey wheel up until the bracket sits in the groove. Then release the clamp, pull the jockey wheel upwards as far as it will go, and re-apply the clamp. Ensure that the jockey wheel is firmly in place (use the palm of your hand to knock the clamp into place) and that there is no contact with the road. Failure to apply the clamp correctly can cause the jockey wheel to drop in transit.

• Release handbrake & move into position
  
• Wind jockey wheel down until coupling head connects with tow ball
  
• Connection is secure when handle clicks down and green indicator pops up
  
• Wind jockey wheel up fully, lift & clamp into position
  

Setting up

When you arrive at your destination, you’ll need to set up your Go-Pod. Don’t worry – this is the easy part! Compared to larger caravans, the setup process is an absolute breeze.

First, you’ll need to unhitch the Go-Pod from your towing vehicle. Follow the steps from the previous page in reverse, making sure that you apply the handbrake once the Go-Pod is disconnected from the tow ball to prevent it from moving or rolling while you set up.

Adjust the jockey wheel until the Go-Pod is level
Once the Go-Pod is disconnected from your tow vehicle, adjust the height of the jockey wheel (wind clockwise to raise, and counter-clockwise to lower) until the Go-Pod is level. Some experimenting may be required on grass pitches. If in doubt, take a spirit level with you – it’s important that the Go-Pod is level for the duration of your stay to ensure that the fridge and gas systems operate correctly.
Wind down the stabiliser legs
Locate the cut-out slots at the bottom of the Go-Pods shell, either side of the door. Insert the winder handle (provided with your Go-Pod) until it connects with the hexagonal nut. Wind clockwise to lower the stabiliser, and repeat the process on the opposite side once completed.

• Release clamp, lower jockey wheel, re-apply clamp and wind to required height
  
• Insert winder into cut-out & connect with hexagonal nut
  
• Wind clockwise to lower
  
• When fully wound down, remove winder and repeat on opposite side
  

Setting up – connections

Connect to mains electricity (if available)
If you are staying on a serviced pitch with access to mains electricity, you’ll want to connect your Go-Pod using a mains 230V cable. Plug your cable into the Go-Pod first, and then the EHU bollard.

• Locate mains connection socket on right hand side of the Go-Pod
  
• Lift connection lid and line up with the 3 pins inside of the socket
  
• Push in firmly to ensure connection – sides must be flush
  
• To remove, press the small blue lever with your thumb and pull towards you
  

Connect water pump

Next you’ll want to connect your Truma water pump to the Go-Pod, to provide fresh water to the tap and sink. The opposite end of the hose will be submerged in your fresh water container.

• Locate water housing socket on left hand side of the Go-Pod (from the door)
  
• Lift flap from bottom to open the housing and reveal socket
  
• Press trigger on pump with index finger and firmly insert into socket
  
• To remove, press the trigger with your index finger and pull towards you
  

Making the bed

Go-Pods utilise a slat system to form the base of the bed, and the seating area backrest cushions fill in the gap along with the bumper cushion.
Lots of owners like to cover the cushions with a mattress topper for added comfort, while some prefer to take sleeping bags for ease of use.
Make the bed in 3 simple steps:

1. Remove tabletop & leg, place aside
   
2. Extend slats towards the rear of the Go-Pod
   
3. Place the 2 side cushions on the slats, fill the gap with the bumper cushion.
   

Control panel

The Sargent EC155 power supply unit and EC50 control panel are installed in all Go-Pods manufactured from 2019 onwards. The EC50 control panel is incredibly easy to use with only 5 buttons:

From top left:

1. Master power button – turns the power on/off
2. Leisure vehicle battery – Press this to switch to the onboard 85Ah 12v leisure battery, instead of mains electricity.
3. Vehicle battery – Not relevant to the Go-Pods – this would be used to swap to the vehicle battery in a campervan.
4. Pump button – Press this to active the Truma water intake pump, used to supply water to the sink.
5. Lighting button – Press this to activate the lighting system – works on 12v or mains electricity.

The 5 LED lights on the right hand side of the panel indicate the leisure battery charge level. Press the leisure battery button twice to display

Electrics

Your Go-Pod includes an L85 (85aH) leisure battery. This will power the lights, water pump, 12v and USB sockets when you are using your Go-Pod without electric hook up.

2 x 3 pin 240V sockets are supplied as standard with your Go-Pod, with the option to add additional sockets if required. If a microwave is added, it will have its own dedicated 3 pin socket in the cupboard.
There are three ways to charge your leisure battery:

Mains electricity (240v)
The fastest way by far is to connect your Go-Pod to mains electricity supply using a mains connection cable, as shown in the image
below. These cables are generic and universal to all caravans, and we carry good stock in our on-site shop.
The standard connection can be used to plug in at campsites, or a 3-pin 240V adapter can be used to plug it in at home.
Charging in transit
If you have a 13-pin tow electric connection installed on your car (we recommend this rather than 7-pin, as that will only power the driving lights) then your vehicles alternator will supply power to the onboard leisure battery, topping it up when in transit.
Solar panel
An optional 100W solar panel can be mounted to the pop-top roof. This will trickle charge the leisure battery. The amount of charge generated depends on the amount of sunlight that the solar panel is exposed to.

• Mains connection cable
  
• 240v 3-pin adapter
  
• Charging in transit via tow electrics
  
• Optional solar panel
  

Care & maintenance’

External care
Your Go-Pod is designed to be low maintenance and is produced with a durable, one-piece GRP shell. Due to the nature of the manufacturing process some small anomalies such as bumps or ripples are inevitable.
This is the individual fingerprint of every Go-Pod and such areas are not considered faults nor are they detrimental to the performance of your caravan. The Go-Pods shell design has no seams or joins, and thus eliminates the risk of seam leaks.

Washing your Go-Pod

• Normal caravan cleaning products can be used on your Go-Pod. Fenwicks Caravan Cleaner is a great product to use.
• Please lower your pop-top during washing.
• Windows should be cleaned with care, using a soft cloth to prevent scratches.
• Do not wash your Go-Pod with a power washer, jet spray or other pressurised hose.
• Your Go-Pod is designed to be waterproof in normal weather conditions, but even normal pressure hoses can drive water through the door, vents or pop-top fabric. Take extra care when rinsing your Go-Pod down.
• It is very important not to allow water to enter the side air vents. Although doing this will not affect your Go-Pods structural integrity, it can damage the MDF wall panels from behind, causing it to bubble and leave water streak marks. Damage of this kind is not covered by your warranty.

Shell damage & repair
GRP fibreglass is used in the construction of boats and a number of cars. If damage occurs to the shell of your Go-Pod, you can take it to a car bodyshop for patching. The quality of finish may vary, though it should be noted that the finish will not be of the same standard as when the Go-Pod arrived new.

Internal care

The carpet runner can be removed and vacuum cleaned, while the flooring beneath can be swept or mopped. Avoid drenching the floor during cleaning. Replacement carpet runners are available on request – colours may vary depending on stock.

The wood surfaces in your Go-Pod can be cleaned with any suitable furniture polish while the internal walls can be gently wiped with a soft damp cloth if necessary.

Pop-top

The pop-top skirt is extremely durable but replacements are available if required. If necessary, the poptop mechanism can be lubricated with a little clear grease as required.
Please ensure the skirt fabric is dry before leaving the Go-Pod for an extended period. This will avoid mildew developing.
The pop-top should be in the down position and fully secured with the six straps inside before towing.
To operate the pop-top, release the six leather straps inside (that are secured with press-studs), take hold of both handles simultaneously then raise gently and equally in an upwards direction. To close the pop-top, gently pull down on both handles simultaneously, ensuring that the fabric is pulled inside as you do. Failure to do this could result in damage to the fabric skirt if it becomes trapped in the scissor action of the roof mechanism.

Ventilation and condensation

Your Go-Pods ventilation points are as specified by European Standards and should not be blocked or obstructed. Air circulation is important to your caravan and will help reduce effects of moisture generated from cooking, washing, breathing etc. Ventilation can be further increased as required by;

1. Ensuring the main vents are in the open position.
2. By opening the window catches and re-securing them in the second notch.
3. By unzipping the vents on your pop-tops skirt.
4. When cooking or boiling a kettle produces heavy steam, ventilation should be increased via windows or door.

Under no circumstances should the Go-Pods ventilation be covered, blocked or tampered with in any way. This includes the vents in the cupboards and the small round drop vents under the seats. Regular inadequate ventilation may cause damage to the surface of your Go-Pods inner skin. If noticed, condensation should be dried immediately with a soft cloth and ventilation increased accordingly. The front and rear rubber window seals have small channels that will collect condensation and prevent it running further. If the channels overflow, it is recommended you increase the ventilation. Should any overnight condensation become evident, it’s advisable to dry this each day.

Damp Reading Guidance:

Reading Action
0 – 15% Normal.
16 – 30% Continue to monitor, re-check at next annual service.
30% + Further inspection recommended.

Winterising

Your Go-Pod is well insulated and with a little heating can be comfortably used all year round. However, should you wish to store it away for the winter, here are a few basic guidelines to consider:

• A sheltered position under cover is a beneficial place to store your Go-Pod.
• A pre-storing clean is recommended and over-wintering waxes are available for additional protection.
• Check tyre pressure is 35psi & consider turning the wheels every 8 weeks to help avoid rubber degradation.
• Your pop-top skirt should be thoroughly dry.
• Remember to apply your security devices and check that the windows and pop-top are secured.
• Protect your 13 pin tow plug from the weather. An application of WD40 is a good idea.
• Disengage the handbrake. Chock block the wheels either side to prevent rolling.
• Apply a little grease to moving mechanical parts or linkages. Avoid getting grease on the brakes.
• Check the interior is free of any item that may rot or attract vermin. It’s a good idea to clean & wipe the interior.
• Ensure the wall vents are fully open.
• You may consider adding moisture traps inside the Go-Pod too.
• Leave the fridge door open to allow air to circulate.
• Turn off the gas supply securely.
• Ensure the water pipes are drained & free of water to prevent freezing damage.
• Empty the toilet and leave dry (do not refill), again to prevent freezing damage.
• Roller and spring blinds are best left open, so as not to gradually weaken their springs.
• Lightly lubricate the door hinges with WD40 or similar. Wipe away excess overspray & drips.
• Ensure that the power supply is turned off on the control panel.
• Your battery can remain connected. Charge periodically if a solar panel is not fitted.
• If you have a solar panel fitted, a cover such as the approved Go-Pod winter cover will allow it to operate through the winter and keep your leisure battery trickle charged and in peak condition.

Links & contact information

Website links

www.Go-Pods.co.uk – our website

www.Go-Pods.co.uk/downloads – Manuals for individual components can be found here

www.Go-Pods.co.uk/owners-area – Resources for Go-Pod owners

 www.Go-Pods.co.uk/guides – More guides on components & accessories

www.Go-Pods.co.uk/walkthru-vids – Walk-through videos

Social media

facebook.com/GoPods – Our Facebook page
facebook.com/groups/gopodsinfo – Independently moderated owners Facebook group
instagram.com/go.pods – Our Instagram page
youtube.com/gopodscaravans – Our YouTube Channel

Contact details

Sales
sales@go-pods.co.uk
(+44) 800 920 2093

Aftersales & servicing
aftersales@go-pod.com
(+44) 1704 889 973 (option 2)

Accessories & parts
shop@go-pod.com
(+44) 1704 889 973 (option 3)

Service record

Services must be carried out in NCC approved workshops only.

www.Go-Pods.co.uk
0800 920 2093
sales@go-pods.co.uk