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Knotten, problems and Lians Caravan & Fritid

Join me on a remarkable vanlife journey that unfolds with mysterious sounds, unexpected challenges and problems, and the unwavering spirit of the vanlife community. From the outset, Knotten and I embraced each moment, learning valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability. As we ventured south to Lindesnes, a puzzling metal-on-metal noise greeted us, a quirk that seasoned vanlifers like us come to embrace. Further down the road, a seemingly flat tire revealed itself as a smoky brake drum, a surprise no one anticipated. Join us as we navigate these challenges, showcase the power of determination, and celebrate the beauty of vanlife. Our journey continues, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Hi there, my dear followers!

In the world of vanlife, where modern and flashy campervans often take the spotlight, there’s something undeniably charming about hitting the road in a vintage camper. Such is the case with my beloved 1999 Chausson Welcome 50 campervan, affectionately known as Knotten. While it may not be a shiny new ride, it holds a special place in my heart, and our journey together has been nothing short of extraordinary. Join me as I share the latest chapter in our vanlife adventures, from mysterious sounds to unexpected challenges, and the unwavering spirit of the vanlife community.

From the very beginning, Knotten and I embarked on a journey filled with adventure and a few bumps along the way. Our shared moments have been unforgettable, and they’ve taught me valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability. We’ve grown together, and our bond has only strengthened over time.

The Mystery Sound: Brushing Off Quirks

During a recent road trip with my girlfriend Kaddy and her trusty rig Fredda, we encountered a puzzling sound while heading south to Lindesnes. It was a faint metal-to-metal noise that seemed to occur whenever I applied the brakes. Now, as a seasoned vanlifer, I’ve come to understand that older vehicles like Knotten tend to have their quirks and unique sounds. So, at first, I brushed it off as part of Knotten’s distinctive personality. After all, it’s these quirks that make vintage campervans so endearing.

Selfie of Toffa expressing the general feeling over the problems that have loomed.
My feeling as I realized that this might be the last trip with Knotten. With problems that have overshadowed our trip further on I don't know how this will turn out.

A Bump in the Road: When Problems Strikes

Our journey from the northern to the southern tip of Norway was going smoothly until a new challenge arose. It felt like I had a flat tire, but upon inspection, all four tires appeared to be “perfectly fine.” However, there was an unmistakable sense that something was amiss. We decided to pull over at a nearby gas station to investigate the problems further, and that’s when we saw it – smoke billowing from the left side brake drum. It was a #VanLifeProblem that none of us anticipated.#VanLifeProblems.

Knotten being hoisted on the back of a rescue truck.
Knotten being hoisted on the back of a rescue truck. Photo: The Vanstatic Two
Knotten being put on the back of the rescue truck.
Knotten being put on the back of the rescue truck before it's time to get to the repair shop. Photo: The Vanstastic Two

With quick thinking and a bit of help from the rescue service, we managed to reach a nearby repair shop in Bardufoss. However, my hopes were dashed when the shop informed me that they didn’t have the necessary parts to repair Knotten problems due to its age. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my vanlife adventures, it’s that giving up is not an option. My instincts led me to Lians Caravan & Fritid, and there, a glimmer of hope emerged on the horizon.

On the bed of the rescue truck.
My view from the cockpit of Knotten while we're being transported to the repair shop.
Right before the rain hits.
Right before the rain came crashing down.

Rising from the Ashes: The Mechanics of Lians

The dedicated mechanics at Lians Caravan & Fritid took on the challenge of tracking down the elusive parts we needed for Knotten. The waiting period was nerve-wracking, to say the least. But their determination and commitment paid off, and before long, we had everything required to get Knotten back on the road. It was a moment of sheer relief and gratitude.

As we eagerly awaited Knotten’s recovery, Kaddy, our loyal dogs, and I made the most of our time exploring the wonders of Senja. The beauty and excitement of our surroundings only intensified our anticipation of the day when we would resume our journey to the southern tip of Norway.

The caravan campers at Lians.
The caravans for sale at Lians in rows and Fredda in the distance.
Knotten waiting to get his problems fixed in the comming weeks.
Knotten parked awaiting that the mechanics at Lians will start to get his problems fixed.

Living the Vanlife Dream: Challenges and Triumphs

This, my friends, is what vanlife is truly about – embracing the challenges, facing the problems head on, cherishing the triumphs, and creating lifelong memories along the way. It’s a lifestyle that tests your resilience, adaptability, and love for adventure. And through it all, the vanlife community stands as a pillar of support and inspiration.

So, dear followers, stay tuned as Knotten prepares to hit the road once more. Our adventures are far from over, and we can’t wait to share them with you. In the world of vintage campervans and vanlife, every twist and turn of the road brings a new story, a new lesson, and a new reason to fall in love with the journey. Thank you for being a part of our vanlife family, and here’s to many more miles of unforgettable adventures with Knotten, Kaddy, our furry kids Ludde and Peachy, and the open road.

 

Warm regards, 

Toffa and Knotten

Knotten, problems and Lians Caravan & Fritid

Explore the vintage charm of Knotten, a 1999 Chausson Welcome 50 campervan, as it takes center stage in the world of vanlife. This photogallery showcases our extraordinary journey filled with challenges and unforgettable moments. From mysterious sounds to unexpected roadside adventures, join us as we embrace the essence of vanlife – resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering spirit of exploration. Stay tuned for Knotten’s triumphant return to the open road and countless more miles of captivating adventures with our beloved van.

Blogpost is found here.

Hey there, fellow adventure seekers! I'm Toffa Berg, your friendly neighborhood vanlifer and landscape enthusiast, hailing from the stunning panoramas of Norway. As a nature aficionado, I've traded the buzz of city life for the tranquility of starry nights and the thrill of winding roads. My trusty co-pilot, Ludde the miniature schnauzer, and I are on a quest to uncover Norway's hidden gems. I've got a lens in one hand and the steering wheel in the other, capturing the intricate play of light and shadow that nature orchestrates so effortlessly. Oh, and did I mention that I'm the creative mind behind the Toffa and Knotten website? That's where I occasionally share snapshots from my photographic escapades, along with tales of vanlife and embracing the unknown. While Stavanger keeps me grounded, it's also my launchpad into the wild. Here, I recharge, ruminate, and get ready for the next great escapade. So, if you're all about celebrating the unfiltered beauty of nature, swapping stories from the road, and occasionally indulging in some photography magic, hop on board! Stay wild, keep chasing horizons, and let's make every mile a memory.

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