Grounding Question...

[Wannabee]

Has anyone got any recent experience of the Red Funnel Southampton - East Cowes ferry and potential grounding issues for my 7.4m Compass 196 coachbuilt?

Mine has a fair rear overhang and very flimsy plastic rear mouldings, so trying to establish if they will part company as I drive on in July...

I might add I don't have a towbar (yet) and will have got round to fitting my rear air suspension assist by then which has been sat on my garage floor for a while.

I've already ditched the ridiculous exhaust extension just behind the front wheels, that grounded the first time I went into my local Sainsbury's petrol station. It's the price you pay for a low chassis I suppose, at least we don't need a separate step into the habitation area.

Thanks guys & gals, looking forward to some trips off now we seem to be merging from incarceration!

 

[glenn2926]

Has anyone got any recent experience of the Red Funnel Southampton - East Cowes ferry and potential grounding issues for my 7.4m Compass 196 coachbuilt?

Mine has a fair rear overhang and very flimsy plastic rear mouldings, so trying to establish if they will part company as I drive on in July...

I might add I don't have a towbar (yet) and will have got round to fitting my rear air suspension assist by then which has been sat on my garage floor for a while.

I've already ditched the ridiculous exhaust extension just behind the front wheels, that grounded the first time I went into my local Sainsbury's petrol station. It's the price you pay for a low chassis I suppose, at least we don't need a separate step into the habitation area.

Thanks guys & gals, looking forward to some trips off now we seem to be merging from incarceration!

We went on it last year with no problems at all. Never gave it a thought and mine is the same size with around a two metre overhang.

 

[pappajohn]

If possible go at the ramp at an angle, that reduces the chance of grounding.
Just explain to the loading guys what the problem is.

 

[Deep Owl]

Two years ago, with an 7.8m M/H with a long overhang, a scooter and 2 bikes on the back, we had no problem. Just take it gently!

 

[BillyKontiki]

I had no problem with this ferry I’ve a 1.6meter overhang.
As your comment about the exhaust extension this is so that the exhaust gasses are expelled out with
Your vans under floor area.
You may be putting yourself in danger with gasses entering your vehicle when idling, or mot failure.
Enjoy Cowes.

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[Gaston aires]

If you fit the air suspension you can pump up the rear height so should be OK

 

[Wannabee]

Thanks to all for the info and advice. Didn't want to find out the hard way!