The Gr814 Passed Again

The little Gr814 has sailed through its annual MOT for the second year running. Preparation amounted to little more than a bulb check and the addition of a concrete block over the fifth wheel, which made for a welcome change from the usual worry about what the test might cost.

The vehicle covered just 667km over the past twelve months, a modest figure by any measure. Given the reassuring verdict from one of the more experienced technicians — that these machines are fairly bulletproof, and any real fault would make itself known — there was little cause for concern going in.

A Testing Exchange

There was a moment of quiet amusement when the DVSA tester declared the vehicle would fail for want of a VTG6 plate. The response was simple enough: none had ever been sent. The tester explained that whoever carried out the first MOT should have arranged for the plates to be issued after the test. At that point, last year’s certificate was produced — and the tester realised he had been the one to conduct that test himself.

Beyond that, the mechanics were found to be in good order. The only observation was that there was not quite enough weight over the drive axle. Striking the right balance is a tricky business; loading the trailer as heavily as a normal MOT test would likely be more than the little Gr814 could handle. A photograph was taken for reference, and next year a larger block will be positioned further back on the chassis to put more load on the rear brakes. The aim is to add weight at the back end without it being visible, and a heavy spare wheel mounted beneath the rear of the chassis is an appealing option.

Looking Ahead

If all goes to plan and the vehicle can be painted in the spring, there is a chance of breaking the 1000km mark by the time of next year’s MOT. A trip to the Netherlands may be on the cards, along with a couple more shows in the UK. The current price of fuel may call for a sponsor, and there is still the question of what to put on the headboard.

All told, the Gr814 has not missed a beat this year and remains a thoroughly enjoyable drive.