Noting some other people's short lists of van manufacturers to consider included Trakmaster, we had a look for them on the Web, and thought they'd be worth checking out in more detail as they were also in Melbourne.

In the first instance we sent them a message from their Website, and got back a few indicative layouts and features and inclusions lists as well as a covering letter from Craig.

We called out to the factory unannounced, and Craig drew up a couple of suggestions on the computer whilst we were chatting with him. Whilst we were still checking out the vans on the apron of their factory, Russell came out to speak with us and showed us through the factory.

Perhaps it is only a small concern, but we were greatly impressed by the Trakmaster product and the attentiveness of both Craig and Russell.

We are so impressed in fact that we are taking the next steps in organising for them to build our replacement van!

So we asked for some further details by e-mail:

From: Mike
To: trakmaster@trakmaster.com.au
Sent: Friday, January 23, 2004 11:11 AM
Subject: Any chance of indicating pricing for the attached, please?

Hi Craig,

Whilst we were there yesterday I noted you were using "Publisher" to do your drawings, so I presume you can open the attached?

This is loosely based on the Simpson 21'x7'9" plan for X & Y

We desire the entry toward the middle, so is what I’ve indicated in front of the wheels possible?

The louvre windows that we were mentioning are HEHR made by Buccaneer Manufacturing in the USA http://www.buccaneermfg.com/4900.htm. Winnebago Australia import various sizes and it seems they are able to be on-sold according to Peter Russell at Boroma Caravans.

The washing machine is probably a case of us supplying it, but you’d need to build it in inside a cupboard.

Appreciate any indications you can provide on this.

Thanks in advance,

Mike & Shona

(Attached a layout)

Craig responded:

From: Trakmaster Pty Ltd [mailto:trakmaster@trakmaster.com.au]
Sent: Thursday, 29 January 2004 5:44 PM
To: Mike
Subject: Re: Trakmaster van

Dear Mike & Shona
After receiving your e-mail and speaking to our production manager, the following construction issues need addressing.
Our shower is a one piece fibre glass mould and the size and shape only allows it to be placed in the front left hand corner or the rear right hand corner, not the rear left hand corner as you have it.
The front step would need to be closer to the bed due to the wheel arch.
We are unable to fit louvre windows.
We do not build underfloor cellars but do recommend storing wine is a storage box under the bed.
We may be able to build in your washing machine, but it will depend on the size and the plumbing fittings required. It would be a cost plus item and as we are a 100% Off-road manufacturer, we would be unable to give a warranty on this product.
Batteries would be fitted under the seat because of the thru-boot.
As you have publisher, use the detail above to re-arrange the plan, and feel free to contact us should you require any further assistance.

Regards,
Craig

As the louvre windows are a major focus to us, I asked for more details on what made them change their minds on fitting them:

From: Mike [mailto:mbg@bigpond.net.au]
Sent: Thursday, 29 January 2004 9:40 PM
To: Trakmaster Pty Ltd
Subject: RE: Trakmaster van

Hi Craig,

Please advise what the actual story is with the windows. When we spoke with you whilst visiting the factory, you indicated there shouldn't be a problem. What changed?

Can you please further advise and provide an indicative base price and confirmation on what size this looks like using your standard sizes?

Regards,
Mike & Shona

(Added a revised layout)

Craig's thoughts on the louvre windows are as follows:

From: Trakmaster Pty Ltd [mailto:trakmaster@trakmaster.com.au]
Sent: Friday, 30 January 2004 9:58 AM
To: Mike
Subject: Re: Trakmaster van

Dear Mike,
After looking at the windows on the web site with our production manager we feel that they are not suited for our off-road vans.
If you would a quotation based on the xyz layout, please e-mail your postal address and any extra options that you may desire.
Regards,
Craig

As we are a bit thrown by the windows, our conversations resumed with Boroma.