The latest bits of kit to come our way for testing...
ARMAPLATE RESOLUTE GOLD
Remember Krookloks? They were all the rage in the 1980s when vehicles had poor locks and little else in the way of security. This new device, called the Resolute, from Armaplate, is a new version on the same theme, locking the brake pedal to the steering wheel and providing a very visible deterrent to thieves. At a time when the criminal fraternity seem to find ways around electronic security, this could be very welcome, especially as it has a Sold Secure Gold award to prove that it won’t easily be defeated.
It’s said to be lighter than other steering locks (but will still need to be stowed properly for travel to avoid damage or injury in an accident) and comes with a lifetime guarantee. Fitting it in our VW T6 seemed easy enough and Armaplate says it will fit virtually any car, campervan or motorhome. However, there was insufficient clearance to the dashboard to fit it to the Editor’s car and it is not compatible with classic vehicles where a non-airbag wheel leaves big gaps between the spokes.
armaplate.com
CTEK CS FREE
Now, here’s a really clever bit of kit that could prove super-useful and which its maker says is unique. It’s truly multifunctional, too.
Firstly, the CS Free is a regular battery charger, which many of us need for a vehicle that isn’t being driven day to day. Just attach it to your vehicle battery at one end and the mains supply at the other. However, unlike conventional battery chargers and maintainers, you can disconnect the 230V supply and it will keep charging your ’van – it is a portable unit with its own internal battery. That’s great if you’re staying off-grid for a while and want to keep your vehicle battery topped up, which the CS Free can do for up to a couple of days (depending on the vehicle). If you need longer than that, a solar panel charge kit (price £320) is also available, giving you independence for longer. Or, if necessary, you can power the CS Free with a separate service battery, simply attached with crocodile clips.
If you run your vehicle battery too flat to start the engine, you can then use the CS Free’s boost function to start it within 15 minutes but, unlike most conventional boosters or jump starters, this won’t damage your vehicle battery or the ’van’s
