Hello, sorry it has been a while that ive been away from here what with medical treatment and moving house(wouldn't think I could do both in a short space of time).
Loose the factory split charger, it's crap and will only pass very small amperage to the leisure battery.
Seriously think about a good capacity split charge relay or a smart charger like I used. Connection is simple if ya use a voltage sensitive unit, but do not do the same mistake as ive seentoo often by using inferior wire. Get yourself some good quality cable able to carry about 100a, this ensures that the resistance in the wire is minimal. Less resistance, more power to your leisure battery.
Planning France was easy really, no sites were booked going down till we got close to the med area, then you do have to research your stops. Most of the time, municipal sites were used, but the trick is to make sure that you are on them b4 12.00pm to guaranty a pitch. Also carefull on the fuel as petrol stations are few and far between (see my earlier post on fuel eco and you will see what I mean
). If anything, pick up and Alan Rogers France Guide on Campsite, which is where we picked up all the ideas to where we stopped (also visit www.alanrogers.com).
Best places were in land as there are more vineyards!!!! We hardly cooked in the van as the average mealand a litre of wine works out to be 18-22 euros (roughly £16.00) which for all that wine and 2 courses I think is a good crack. If children are involved then you do need to be looking at the coastal areas, but things generally are a little more expensive.
Would I do it again............ no question.....YES as ive done so for the last 4 years
P.s total miles covered 2700, cost of holiday for 2 and bring shed loads of wine back (including fuel and campsites) £1200.