Auto-Trail, a British motorhomes manufacturer, is well-regarded for producing high-quality and comfortable recreational vehicles. Based in Grimsby, the company specialises in crafting motorhomes that cater to a variety of lifestyles. This includes compact models ideal for weekend getaways to spacious premium options suited for long-term adventures. Built on reliable chassis like the Fiat Ducato and Ford Transit, Auto-Trail motorhomes are manufactured to deliver a smooth driving experience, combined with interiors that offer a luxurious home-away-from-home feel.
Auto-Trail motorhomes are designed to maximize comfort and convenience, with spacious living areas, well-equipped kitchens and ample storage. The brand is known for its attention to detail, evident in its high-quality furnishings, innovative layouts and a wide range of configurations that allow owners to tailor their motorhome to their needs. With a strong commitment to craftsmanship and proven customer satisfaction, Auto-Trail has established a loyal following among motorhome enthusiasts. For travellers seeking a balance of British design, comfort and versatility, Auto-Trail offers a compelling choice for memorable journeys on the open road.
Auto-Trail Door Seal
Like with most caravans, motorhomes and RVs, it is essential to periodically replace the rubber seals and trims on your Auto-Trail to maintain a solid seal that minimises the risk of costly damp repairs caused by water ingress.
We’ve noticed that some motorhomes manufactured around 10 to 20 years ago are now reaching the point where the seals around the windows, doors and lockers are due for replacement. These motorhomes have seen consistent use over the past years, and their sealing profiles are beginning to show signs of wear, such as tears and over compression.
Recently, a customer contacted us by email in need of a replacement door seal for their Auto-Trail Apache 632. After seeing photographs of their existing seal, we concluded that their problem of water ingress was due to a tear at the bottom of their current rubber door seal. This is a common issue with most caravans and motorhomes that endure repeated foot traffic around this area. Helping this customer find an appropriate replacement section was important for preserving the condition of their motorhome and avoiding future damp-related issues.
Most Auto-Trail motorhomes, such as the Apache 632, are fitted with a rubber sealing profile similar to our CS5883. This particular seal is often used as a cab or habitation door seal. From our experience, this includes most of the vehicles in their motorhome range, such as Apache and Frontier. However, this profile may also work on other vehicles that are fitted with a similar rubber profile.
The main feature of this profile is the ivory-coloured tail trim, a finishing strip that covers the join between the door frame and wall panel. Although not essential for providing a watertight seal, most Auto-Trail motorhomes were designed with this finishing trail in mind, and using a different profile may leave a the join visible. The tail is flexible and can be directed to hand vertically against the vehicle body. It measures approximately 25mm to 30mm when extended down the interior wall of the van.
This profile is designed to fit over a panel edge that has a thickness between 1.5mm to 2.5mm. This is approximately the thickness of sheet metal.
Additionally, this rubber section has a side seal around 14mm in diameter. This compresses when the door closes to form a watertight seal. We recommend compressing the sponge sealing bulb by around a third to create an effective seal and reduce the chance of over-compression.
As with any seal replacement, it is important to examine the end profile of your existing section before purchasing a replacement. By looking at the cross-sectional profile, you can identify the specific shape of the rubber seal and ensure you select a replacement that matches the size and form of your current seal. If you need assistance with identifying a suitable replacement, our technical team is here to help. You’re welcome to email a photograph of the end profile to sales@sealsplusdirect.co.uk for further guidance.