Bailey Autograph 2 - Update and Modifications (1 Viewer)

[DaveH46]

We have had our motorhome a few months now and I'm just about getting it to where I want it.
Here's a list of a few modifications I have done to improve things

TV
A recent trip to a site with remote TV hookup proved frustrating - the aerial connector under the flap on the nearside proved to be a "TV OUT" point... WTF ?...
I cant ever imagine wanting to watch a TV outside, but each to their own...my modification now sees the connection as "TV IN" for ease of external TV point connection.
This is reversible in seconds if I ever want to watch TV in the awning.
Basically I have replaced the cheapo Vison Plus amplifier with the better version which incorporated a signal finder.(not necessary for the modification)
It is a straight swap and much more user friendly...the difference in price is so minimal I don't know why Bailey don't fit them as standard.

Step 1 - determine which cable is connected to the ouside point - use a multimeter set to continuity testing - mine was the lead shown in the photo.
Step 2 Purchase a Switch for BK and SAT Systems F Connector - 2x F Connectors - mine was £11 off ebay - it allows push button switching between two signal sources
Step 3 - Remove External "TV Out" cable from TV amplifier and connect to one input side of switch
Step 4 Remove Original antenna input from TV amplifier and connect to other side of switch
Step 5 Buy a short flyead to connect sitch output to signal in connector on amplifier.

Job done - you can now easily hookup external TV source or use roof antenna at the push of a button !!

External Shower Point
Photo shows a Bullfinch external shower point fitted to rear of van (Dog Wash !!)
This location is directly adjacent to hot & cold kitchen supply pipes on the 79-4T model (Hot=Red Cold = White)
A simple installation once the hole is drilled - there are no obstructions or framing in the wall to cause concern at this point on the exterior wall.

Small Lounge table
The supplied underfloor table is practical but encroaches on living space a bit too much for my liking.
I have made an alternative 500mm round table which is perfect for the two of us.
The Under table conical connectors are available from Bailey or you nearest chandler (this system was developed for boats !) .
Simply screw connector centrally to bottom of a table top of your choice and away you go !

Solar Meter
The solar meter shown in the below photo is plug and play with the Truma Controller.
It enables a full check of the system voltages etc without scrolling through the BCA panel

Gutter Mod
I was anxious about the torrents of water running down the centre of rear bedroom windows during heavy rain... this is due to a jointing strip on the roof and a bad design on the 79 series.
I have fitted Fiamma drip stop to the entire offside and above the bedroom window on the nearside.
Problem sorted....and no more black streaks

Hope the above prove useful to someone.
Dave H

 

[Steve and Soz]

Like the drip strip, is it easy to fit?. Note it curves round at the back.

 

[mitzimad]

the drip strips are easy to fit but much harder to fit straight and level warming them up before fitting helps

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[DaveH46]

Put the entire length under traction for 24 hours to remove the memory effect of being coiled up, then a hot air gun to warm the strip and wall as you go along fixing it to the van

 

[Steve and Soz]

Sounds easy!. Think I will give it a go.

 

[Ninjabob]

Ordered the meter - thanks.

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[DaveH46]

Re the meter.. You will need a flexible ethernet connection cable about 250mm.. The space at the rear is limited. I pared the insulation back to enable a 90 degree bend on the cable... It will be obvious when you see it

 

[Ninjabob]

Re the meter.. You will need a flexible ethernet connection cable about 250mm.. The space at the rear is limited. I pared the insulation back to enable a 90 degree bend on the cable... It will be obvious when you see it

Thanks - I have got some flat ones that came with my SONOS speakers.

 

[Gellyneck]

Step 2 Purchase a Switch for BK and SAT Systems F Connector - 2x F Connectors - mine was £11 off ebay - it allows push button switching between two signal sources

Hi Dave
Interested in doing something similar on TV input. Do you happen to have a link to the above unit? Ta

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[DaveH46]

Not sure if we're allowed to post links for commercial stuff. If you search in eblag for the item exactly as I've typed it you should find the unit for sale (ie Switch for BK and SAT Systems F Connector - 2x F Connectors)

 

[Gellyneck]

Not sure if we're allowed to post links for commercial stuff. If you search in eblag for the item exactly as I've typed it you should find the unit for sale (ie Switch for BK and SAT Systems F Connector - 2x F Connectors)

Many thanks. Found it.
Should be no probs posting a direct link.

 

[Steve and Soz]

Really pleased I read your thread. There was I thinking what a plonker I was after twisting the Ariel around 360 degrees, raising it and lowering it. Opening the Ariel blade, twisting it around 360 degrees in every direction and still the light on the amplifier stayed RED. After reading the Bailey manual I was expecting it to go amber or green. Only got a patchy picture on the TV. After looking at your picture above I noticed it is a similar but different amplifier. Further investigation and a e-mail to Vision Plus reveals the one in my Bailey is a VM3, the LED is red to show power on!!! However the one described in the Bailey manual is a VM5 (as above) which does have a signal strength finder LED.
More annoying is Bailey knew of the mistake and have not bothered doing anything.

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[DLT]

Hi
Where did you get the table top from
cheers Dave

 

[DaveH46]

Hi
Where did you get the table top from
cheers Dave

Ebay.. Try this item number 252032935447

 

[DLT]

Will do

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[DLT]

Is yours 600 or 500 where did you get the leg fitting for the underside of the table. like you we find the table takes up to much room Thanks for your help. Dave

 

[DLT]

sorry about all the questions just received read your tread again

 

[GaryinPembs]

Very interesting and informative. I was confused with the external TV connection as well when I was plugging into a site point and not really getting much joy. Thanks to this thread I've now sent for the components to enable switching between aerial and external point

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[Papa lazaroo]

We have had our motorhome a few months now and I'm just about getting it to where I want it.
Here's a list of a few modifications I have done to improve things

TV
A recent trip to a site with remote TV hookup proved frustrating - the aerial connector under the flap on the nearside proved to be a "TV OUT" point... WTF ?...
I cant ever imagine wanting to watch a TV outside, but each to their own...my modification now sees the connection as "TV IN" for ease of external TV point connection.
This is reversible in seconds if I ever want to watch TV in the awning.
Basically I have replaced the cheapo Vison Plus amplifier with the better version which incorporated a signal finder.(not necessary for the modification)
It is a straight swap and much more user friendly...the difference in price is so minimal I don't know why Bailey don't fit them as standard.

Step 1 - determine which cable is connected to the ouside point - use a multimeter set to continuity testing - mine was the lead shown in the photo.
Step 2 Purchase a Switch for BK and SAT Systems F Connector - 2x F Connectors - mine was £11 off ebay - it allows push button switching between two signal sources
Step 3 - Remove External "TV Out" cable from TV amplifier and connect to one input side of switch
Step 4 Remove Original antenna input from TV amplifier and connect to other side of switch
Step 5 Buy a short flyead to connect sitch output to signal in connector on amplifier.

Job done - you can now easily hookup external TV source or use roof antenna at the push of a button !!

View attachment 191953
External Shower Point
Photo shows a Bullfinch external shower point fitted to rear of van (Dog Wash !!)
This location is directly adjacent to hot & cold kitchen supply pipes on the 79-4T model (Hot=Red Cold = White)
A simple installation once the hole is drilled - there are no obstructions or framing in the wall to cause concern at this point on the exterior wall.

View attachment 191954

Small Lounge table
The supplied underfloor table is practical but encroaches on living space a bit too much for my liking.
I have made an alternative 500mm round table which is perfect for the two of us.
The Under table conical connectors are available from Bailey or you nearest chandler (this system was developed for boats !) .
Simply screw connector centrally to bottom of a table top of your choice and away you go !

View attachment 191955

Solar Meter
The solar meter shown in the below photo is plug and play with the Truma Controller.
It enables a full check of the system voltages etc without scrolling through the BCA panelView attachment 191958

Gutter Mod
I was anxious about the torrents of water running down the centre of rear bedroom windows during heavy rain... this is due to a jointing strip on the roof and a bad design on the 79 series.
I have fitted Fiamma drip stop to the entire offside and above the bedroom window on the nearside.
Problem sorted....and no more black streaks
View attachment 191966

Hope the above prove useful to someone.
Dave H

Hi Dave, great tips as I also have a bailey 79-4i, have ordered the switch for the TV, would you happen to know what sort of cable is required to hook up to a digital source on site? Thanks Kev.

 

[Ninjabob]

Just a normal TV Coax with male TV plug on one end and FType male on the other end.

 

[Dixxeee]

Hi Dave - we also have a 79-4 and found similar frustrations and more. One option we came up with for the table, albeit initially a temporary fix, was to unscrew the fixing plate from the floor (right hand one as you look from the door) and attach it to the table leg and lock it in place. This allows you to swivel the table into any position. Gives lots of options with added preparation space when set with thin end of table pointing towards the kitchen sink. Of course I will caveat all this by saying its a ‘floating’ leg so care should be taken, but as stable as when set in its original location

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[Andyfozz]

Hi Dave i did the same with my table, makes it a lot roomier and easy to sit around. As it sounds like your all bailey owners i have a request please,
our island bed 79/4 I 2018 has some bottom slats missing/broken can any one please send me a picture of the bottom slats so i can see what i need to order.

 

[Dixxeee]

I have same year and model. can you give more info on what it is you want? You say you have some slats so isn’t that enough to order?
let me know

 

[Ian 794T]

We have had our motorhome a few months now and I'm just about getting it to where I want it.
Here's a list of a few modifications I have done to improve things

TV
A recent trip to a site with remote TV hookup proved frustrating - the aerial connector under the flap on the nearside proved to be a "TV OUT" point... WTF ?...
I cant ever imagine wanting to watch a TV outside, but each to their own...my modification now sees the connection as "TV IN" for ease of external TV point connection.
This is reversible in seconds if I ever want to watch TV in the awning.
Basically I have replaced the cheapo Vison Plus amplifier with the better version which incorporated a signal finder.(not necessary for the modification)
It is a straight swap and much more user friendly...the difference in price is so minimal I don't know why Bailey don't fit them as standard.

Step 1 - determine which cable is connected to the ouside point - use a multimeter set to continuity testing - mine was the lead shown in the photo.
Step 2 Purchase a Switch for BK and SAT Systems F Connector - 2x F Connectors - mine was £11 off ebay - it allows push button switching between two signal sources
Step 3 - Remove External "TV Out" cable from TV amplifier and connect to one input side of switch
Step 4 Remove Original antenna input from TV amplifier and connect to other side of switch
Step 5 Buy a short flyead to connect sitch output to signal in connector on amplifier.

Job done - you can now easily hookup external TV source or use roof antenna at the push of a button !!

View attachment 191953
External Shower Point
Photo shows a Bullfinch external shower point fitted to rear of van (Dog Wash !!)
This location is directly adjacent to hot & cold kitchen supply pipes on the 79-4T model (Hot=Red Cold = White)
A simple installation once the hole is drilled - there are no obstructions or framing in the wall to cause concern at this point on the exterior wall.

View attachment 191954

Small Lounge table
The supplied underfloor table is practical but encroaches on living space a bit too much for my liking.
I have made an alternative 500mm round table which is perfect for the two of us.
The Under table conical connectors are available from Bailey or you nearest chandler (this system was developed for boats !) .
Simply screw connector centrally to bottom of a table top of your choice and away you go !

View attachment 191955

Solar Meter
The solar meter shown in the below photo is plug and play with the Truma Controller.
It enables a full check of the system voltages etc without scrolling through the BCA panelView attachment 191958

Gutter Mod
I was anxious about the torrents of water running down the centre of rear bedroom windows during heavy rain... this is due to a jointing strip on the roof and a bad design on the 79 series.
I have fitted Fiamma drip stop to the entire offside and above the bedroom window on the nearside.
Problem sorted....and no more black streaks
View attachment 191966

Hope the above prove useful to someone.
Dave H

Hi Dave, I am puzzled at what you fitted the drip strip to? I have a 79-4T and it has no strip to feed it in to. The black marks are really annoying and would love to cure it. Ian

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[BikerGraham]

Hi Dave,

what are the model / part numbers for the fridge / freezer external vent covers please ?

thanks
Graham