Used van buyer Bailey Ranger Series 5 550/6 from 2006

Ranger was a hugely popular caravan from its launch and remains a great pre-owned buy. Andy Jenkinson finds out why

RANGER HAS TO be one of the best known names in caravanning of recent times.

In 1997, this ground-breaking line-up of tourers brought to the market a range of well-specified models, at just the right weight and just the right price.

Even today, it’s not uncommon to see early Rangers from that launch year, still giving excellent service.

Here, we’re looking at the 2006 Series 5 line-up, which ran for just over three years, with hundreds being sold in that time. The previous 04/5 models had served well, but the Series 5 was to offer even better value.

The new Series 5 range was launched towards the end of 2004, becoming an immediate hit with customers.

A full oven, Truma blown-air heating, fridge, Status TV aerial, shower and bonded roof were all part of the excellent spec. Washrooms on end-washroom models were particularly spacious. Great layouts meant that all possible buyers, from couples to large families, were catered for.

The problem was building enough of the hugely popular Rangers. But now these tourers can be had for as little as £5000, making them excellent value.

Model history

Back in 2005, the Series 5 hit the forecourts running, being a best-seller at the NEC show that year. The 550/6 first saw the light of day back in 2002, and was carried on through to the new Series 5 line-up.

On an Al-ko chassis with AKS hitch, the 550/6 came with the then-popular layout of rear fixed bunks and side single dinette, with the kitchen and washroom opposite, plus a large front lounge area.

Night-time illumination was well catered for, with four spotlights on the large Heki roof vent, ceiling lights and corner front lights. Like all the Rangers, the 550/6 has really excellent lighting.

Overall storage capacity in the Rangers was another big plus, while general build was good for the price. With plenty of layout choices, the 2006 Series 5 makes a good used buy, especially for first-timers.

FACTFILE Price £5995 Berths 6 MIRO 1058kg Payload 240kg MTPLM 1298kg Internal length 5.40m Width 2.19m Seen at Robsons of Wolsingham, Durham Road, Wolsingham, Bishop Auckland DL13 3HU Web www.robsons ofwolsingham.co.uk Tel 01388 527 242 CRACKING UP? Inspect the rear panel carefully – there can be a problem with cracking BARGAIN HUNT Ranger 550/6 is a reliable, affordable lightweight tourer LOCKER ROOM Sizeable locker at the front, but check for cracking in corners

LAYOUTS AVAILABLE IN BAILEY RANGER SERIES 5 550/6

TAKE A SEAT Check the upholstery is still good; it wasn’t that hardwearing and might have lost support UP FRONT Bright, airy lounge is very spacious and has a large Heki roof vent with integrated lighting

TO THE POINT Service points are on offside; there’s only the odd dent on the exterior FINE FACILITIES Side washroom is in fine condition and handbasin has a handy cupboard beneath; toilet is manual flush LIGHTING UP Heki roof vent also has excellent integrated lighting – a great feature WHEELING IN Ranger’s tyres are in good order and the wheel covers are original

STYLISH CUISINE The Ranger is in first-class condition, and just look at all the overhead locker storage and that great kitchen DINING IN Side single dinette has a fold-away bunk. Fridge is opposite kitchen and has twin sockets and TV aerial plug SLEEP IN COMFORT Rear bunks have a handy wardrobe, and twin mains sockets have been added here at some stage