Category Archives: Rafe

Rafe

2014 Dethleffs Globe 4 – One Owner, Island Bed, Lithium, Thule Awning

Leave a comment
MEET RAFE: ONE OWNER, 12 YEARS OF CARE, READY FOR HIS NEXT ADVENTURE
After 12 wonderful years exploring New Zealand, Mum and Dad are finally selling their beloved motorhome, Rafe.

Click on any Image to Enlarge
Kerikeri
Waikato

Bought brand new in 2014, Rafe has been fussed over, thoughtfully upgraded and enjoyed ever since. He’s been to the South Island four times and just about everywhere in the North Island, in all weathers. You can follow the adventures on Dad’s blog, buggeritweareoff.com. Now, with overseas travel and the odd Airbnb calling, it’s time for someone else to make their own memories.

Another wider look forward with the 190l three way fridge/freezer.
Looking back to the Galley with the TV and water/power/waste gauges.
THE DRIVE
Under the bonnet is a 3.0-litre Iveco turbo diesel with 180hp and 400Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed Comfort-Matic transmission. It has a timing chain and needs no AdBlue. Built on a long-wheelbase AL-KO chassis with trailing-arm suspension, Rafe rides beautifully. He’s economical too, recently averaging 8.4 litres per 100km, which is impressive for a motorhome of nearly 8 metres.
THE LAYOUT

A permanent north–south island bed offers access from both sides with storage underneath, and a front drop-down double gives room for guests. The L-shaped lounge is the spot for meals, relaxing or planning tomorrow’s destination. The generous separate shower sits opposite the vanity and cassette toilet.

The Dinng table that moves in all directions with the swivel seats. We’ve had 8 for dinner around this table.
Looking back at the Headboard. There are extra speakers for the Stereo on either side of the bed along with USB jacks for phones etc.

Several years ago the shower tray was replaced and a boatbuilder brought in to properly reinforce the support underneath. It’s a known weak point in motorhomes of this era, and it’s a good example of the care Mum and Dad have put into Rafe.

The Shower
Looking through from the Bed at the back. Bathroom on the Left with hand basin and Toilet. Shower on the Right
The Cassette Toilet area and washbasin.
WARM AND POWERED UP
Built in Germany for European winters, Rafe is very well insulated. Dad says he’s never been cold in it.

The power system is the standout upgrade: 300Ah of lithium, 200W of solar and about 40 amps of DC-to-DC charging as soon as the engine starts. TVs, stereo and lights all run without you having to think about power.

Masterton
FEATURES YOU’LL LOVE
• Proven power: 3.0L Iveco turbo diesel, 180hp/400Nm, timing chain, no AdBlue
• Smooth ride: long-wheelbase AL-KO chassis with trailing-arm suspension
• Comfortable sleeping: rear island bed, front drop-down double (1.95 x 1.40m), 4 berths, 4 belted seats
• Lithium power: 2 x 150Ah LiFePO4 batteries, 200W solar, Victron lithium regulator, DC-to-DC charger
• Warm in all seasons: Truma Combi 6 heating and hot water, thermal windscreen cover
• Room for the supplies: 190L Dometic three-way fridge/freezer, with just one element replaced in 12 years
• Entertainment: Kenwood 9″ stereo with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and subwoofer, plus two Avtex TVs with Google TV and a 12V router (streaming needs mobile coverage and a data connection)
• Outdoor living: large Thule awning, BBQ that connects to the onboard LPG, rear bike rack with flip-out clothesline
• Practical extras: food-grade hose reel, grey-water hose, USB-A and USB-C charging points
• Tanks: 115L fresh, 90L grey, 2 x 9kg LPG
• Size: 7.76m long, 2.33m wide, 2.95m high, 1.98m interior headroom, 4,250kg GVM

• Loved from day one: one owner from new, with 12 years of care and the little niggles worked through

Waipu Cove
Mum and Dad know Rafe inside out, and every addition comes from years of travelling and learning what matters. They’ll be sad to see him go, but there are plenty more adventures ahead, and it’s time for someone else to enjoy this one.