by Chris Jefferies
True veterans of the caravan manufacturing industry, Carlight have been making tourers since the 1930s and they pride themselves on building ‘vans that stand the test of time. With this in mind, this week’s Used Caravan of the Week is a 1970s throwback with plenty of retro charm.
With a distinctive front end, this model will certainly stand out at a holiday park, as the middle roof panel is raised slightly in the style of a pop-top, resulting in generous 6’3″ headroom.
History
This model is the 15 foot version, featuring a traditional convertible dinette in the front, with a convertible table, doors on both sides, a rear-end kitchen and a compact bathroom, which completes the layout.
What makes this vintage ‘van really stand out is the delightful domestic flourishes, such as a chest of drawers with a bowed front and red curtains with tasselled tie-backs.
However, the seller admits that this model wants a bit of work, as the side door to the main room needs the door frame re-fitting and the door re-hanging.
What’s more a replacement skylight (included) needs fitting, and there is only one working trailer leg, while the paintwork, carpet and kitchen worktops are due some attention.
This aside, though, the seller claims that it is “all ready to go”, with the brakes and lights in good working order.
Kit and caboodle
This tourer comes with all its original interior furniture and soft furnishings, as well as a cooker and fridge that both work “fine”.
Also included in the price are a full gas bottle and a brand new leisure battery, and all but one of the lamps still works.
The Trumatic gas space heater and water heater are untested, so this may provide some pause for thought for cautious buyers.
However, if you’re looking for a challenge, this could prove to be a very rewarding restoration project.
Given that this model was worth £7,767 in its day (more than £43,000 in today’s money) this is a very affordable piece of British caravanning history, which could be yours for much less than £1,000.
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Used Caravan of the Week: 1973 Carlight Caribbean
