Everything You
Need To Know About
Your Spaceship
ALPHA VERSION
Alpha Version
We Strongly Recommend You Read This
Martian
Klingon
Earthling UK
Welsh
Shyriiwook
2
ENVIRONMENTAL CARE CODE
Remove rubbish
Litter is unattractive, harmful to wildlife and can increase vermin and disease. Plan your visits
to reduce rubbish, and carry out what you carry in.
Bury toilet waste
In areas without toilet facilities, bury your toilet waste in a shallow hole well away from
waterways, tracks, campsites, and huts.
Keep streams and lakes clean
When cleaning and washing, take the water and wash well away from the water source.
Because soaps and detergents are harmful to water-life, drain used water into the soil to allow
it to be ﬁltered. If you suspect the water may be contaminated, either boil it for at least 3
minutes, or ﬁlter it, or chemically treat it.
Protect plants and animals
Treat THE UK & Europe’s plants and animals with care and respect. They are unique and often
rare.
Take care with ﬁres
Portable fuel stoves are less harmful to the environment and are more efficient than ﬁres. If
you do use a ﬁre, keep it small, use only dead wood and make sure it is out by dousing it with
water and checking the ashes before leaving.
Camp carefully
When camping, leave no trace of your visit.
Keep to the track
By keeping to the track, where one exists, you lessen the chance of damaging fragile plants.
Consider others
People visit forests and rural areas for many reasons. Be considerate of other visitors who also
have a right to enjoy the natural environment.
Enjoy your visit
Enjoy your outdoor experience. Take a last look before leaving an area; will the next visitor
know that you have been there?
Protect the environment for your own sake, for the sake of those who come after you, and for
the environment itself.
3
Contents
Campsites & Campgrounds
Compulsory Equipment in the EU
Environmental Care Code
Spaceships Depot – Map
Spaceship Station Addresses
How to open the bonnet
How to check the engine coolant level
How to check the oil
How to open the front sunroof
How to open the rear sunroof
How to open the fuel lid
Tyre pressure
How to change a tyre
Using the jack
Spare tyre
How to turn the back seat
How to put up the back awning
How to put up the side awning (optional feature)
How to use the cooker
Understanding your electrical system
How to put on snow chains
Automatic Transmission
Warning Lights
Road Restrictions
Safe Driving In The UK & Europe
Traffic Infringements
Breakdowns and Accident Assistance
Problems with Vehicle
What to do if you breakdown
What to do if you have an accident
What you need to provide us with
What's different about driving in The UK & Europe
Are you a Space Traveller?
Emergency Number
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Hi Space Travellers!
Welcome to the UK and Europe!
Please read this booklet to find
out everything you need about
your Spaceship.
Please note, except where specifically stated, ‘Free camping’
(parking and sleeping where you want) is illegal in Europe.
We provide a comprehensive list of camping grounds and
campsites for you to use so that you have plenty of options of
where to stay, all over the UK & Europe.
If you do ‘free camp’ we would like to insist that you help care
for, and sustain our environment – leave no litter and use
public toilet facilities where ever possible.
Have a fantastic time experiencing the UK & Europe.
Spaceships UK
5
CAMPSITES & CAMPGROUNDS
The UK & Europe are packed full of amazing campsites and
campgrounds with facilities to suit everyone’s needs. Whether
you want to set up camp at the top of the Alps or relax with
views of Mediterranean Sea there is something for everyone.
There are so many campsites & campgrounds in the UK &
Europe that we couldn’t even begin to list them all. However
some of our Space Stations are great campsites with excellent
facilities, more details of these on page 17.
For the best information and locations of campgrounds we
suggest using:
www.pitchup.com
www.alanrogers.com
If you are looking at travelling distances and how long it may
take to get to a destination then please visit:
http://www.theaa.com/route-planner/index.jsp
www.theaa.com/route-planner/index.jsp
6
EQUIPMENT LIST
Below is a list of compulsory & recommended equipment
needed when travelling in different European countries. If you
are travelling in the winter season then European authorities
insist on snow chains for the vehicle and it is your
responsibility to ensure that you have them.
Country
First
Fire
Warning Spare Headlamp
Aid Extinguisher Triangle Bulbs Adjustment
Kit
Andorra
R
R
C
R
C
Austria
C
R
C
R
C
Belgium
R
R
C
R
C
Bulgaria
C
C
C
R
R
Croatia
C
R
C
C
C
Cyprus
(Rep of)
R
R
C
R
DL
Czech Rep
C
R
C
C
C
Denmark
R
R
C
R
C
Finland
R
R
C
R
C
France &
Monaco
R
R
C
R
C
Germany
R
R
C
R
C
Gibraltar
R
R
R
R
C
Greece
C
C
C
R
R
Hungary
C
R
C
C
C
Ireland(Rep
of)
R
R
R
R
DL
Italy and San
Marino
R
R
C
R
R
Luxembourg
R
R
C
R
R
Macedonia
C
R
C
C
C
Malta
R
R
R
R
DL
Netherlands
R
R
C
R
C
Norway
R
R
C
R
C
Poland
C
C
C
R
R
Portugal
R
R
C
R
R
Romania
C
R
C
R
C
Slovakia
C
R
C
C
C
Slovenia
R
R
C
R
R
Spain
R
R
C
C
C
Sweden
R
R
C
R
C
Switzerland
&
Liechtenstein
R
R
C
R
R
UK
R
R
R
R
DL
Key: C = Compulsory R = Recommended by AA and/or respective
country DL = Drive on the left
8
Environmental Care Code
1. Empty toilet and waste tanks, (grey and black) in approved dump
stations, to protect the health of citizens. Holes must not be dug in
the ground (in particular on Department of Conservation lands).
2. Take care with plants and animals.
3. Keep your vehicle to formed tracks.
4. Remove all rubbish from the area and take it with you when you
leave.
5. Use only built fireplaces and portable BBQs if you wish to cook
outside.
6. Be aware, respect and value any spiritual, historical or scenic
value in areas you visit.
Why Be a Clean, Green, Low Impact Space Traveller?
During your trip you will be travelling through some of the most
beautiful countries in the world - with outstanding landscapes,
stunning forests, clear blue waters, fresh air and charming wildlife.
All of us need to play our part in keeping Europe healthy, clean and
green, so that we, and our friends and family, can continue to enjoy
its beauty in the future.
The most important thing we all need to do is always dispose of our
waste in a proper manner - a dump station facility or proper
sewerage system for black and grey waste water, and rubbish
collection facilities for solid waste.
Polluting our waters has the worst consequences.
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Only a tiny amount of human faecal matter is needed to cause
pollution, as there are millions of micro-organisms in every gram.
Infectious viruses and parasites can survive for several months in
water, including giardia, hepatitis A, cryptosporidium and
gastroenteritis-causing viruses. Skin diseases can also be spread.
Whether waste is discharged in water or on land, especially if it
contains chemicals, it can destroy the fragile ecosystems of our
waters, forests and pastures.
Rubbish disposal is important.
Never litter, or leave waste in inappropriate places.
Local authorities have rules relating to rubbish disposal, e.g. you
cannot leave household rubbish in public litter bins outside of
camping areas.
Dumping rubbish carries harsh penalties, including fines and prison
sentences, especially if the rubbish could spread disease or injure
someone.
If you can't take your rubbish home with you, use a Transfer Station
- you may even be able to recycle there!
Take only photographs.
Leave only footprints and tyre tracks behind you
Can I help prevent water pollution?
Yes.
Once you are aware of how water pollution is caused, you can make
sure your actions don't contribute to the pollution. Below are some
everyday substances that can cause serious damage if disposed of
incorrectly.
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Grey waste water
Grey water contains many of the following things which can be very
harmful to our aquatic habitats. Your 'little bit of soapy water', when
added to many other people's 'little bit', adds up to a destructive
amount.
Never dispose of grey water into streams, lakes, rivers or beaches.
Only ever dispose of grey water onto land if you have specific
instructions from the property owner and never on land where it
could easily reach water. The best place for grey water disposal is a
proper sewerage system (not a stormwater drain!).
Foodstuffs & Drink
As they decay and rot in a body of water, they use up its reserves of
oxygen, suffocating the creatures that live in it.
Cleaning Agents
Detergents, disinfectants and degreasers all cause harm to aquatic
plants and animals through poisoning, burning and irritating their
sensitive membranes and tissues. Even those claiming to be 'biodegradable' or 'environmentally friendly' can be toxic to fish and
remove oxygen from a water body as they are broken down.
Ammonia & Chlorine
Found in many household cleaning substances, both are highly toxic
to aquatic life.
Bacteria and Disease
These are found in very high levels in grey water, just from people
showering or washing hands etc. Public health is at risk, as only a
tiny amount of human faecal matter is needed to cause pollution there are millions of micro-organisms in every gram.
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Infectious viruses and parasites can survive for several months in
water, including giardia, hepatitis A, cryptosporidium and
gastroenteritis-causing viruses. Skin diseases can also be spread.
Oil & Grease
One litre of oil can contaminate one million litres of drinking water
and cover 100 m2 of water, oiling birds and creating a barrier
preventing essential oxygen and sunlight from getting into the
water.
Oil and grease from animal and vegetable fats in your grey water
are just as guilty of this as used waste oils.
Always use drip trays when transferring or draining oil and other
liquids, and wipe up small drips and spills. Used waste oil can be
recycled at Transfer Stations or your local Service Station.
Suspended solids
Any kind of suspended solids in your waste water can smother an
aquatic habitat, blocking sunlight and oxygen and choking the
creatures that live there.
Toilet chemical
Some common toilet chemicals still contain formaldehyde - a
poisonous carcinogenic substance banned in some countries.
Other toilet chemicals may not contain formaldehyde, but they can
still contain strong chemicals and may be very high in ammonia making them toxic to aquatic life (and your equipment!).
While there are several 'safe, biodegradable' products available, no
toilet chemicals are designed to be disposed of in the natural
environment, but in proper sewerage systems in the right quantities.
Black waste water
Black waste water is any waste water containing sewage.
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Black waste contains high levels of bacteria and disease, toilet
chemical, ammonia and suspended solids. This page tells you how
damaging all those components are to public health and the
environment.
Black waste is also very high in phosphates, nitrates and other
nutrients that promote the uncontrolled growth of plant and bacteria
populations within the aquatic environment. Waterways can be
choked off with weeds or depleted of oxygen by unnaturally high
populations of micro-organisms.
Don't ever dispose of black waste into water! The only safe place for
black waste is in a proper sewerage system.
Other substances
Other substances that you need to dispose of correctly and with
care, making sure they can't enter water, include the following:
Fuels & Solvents can damage fish gills so they can't breathe, as
well as poisoning animals and burning plants. They contain cancercausing agents that accumulate in fish and shellfish and they can be
a major explosion hazard, especially in pipes. Heavier components
accumulate in the bed sediments of a water body.
Paints, Dyes & Inks can be poisonous to creatures that come in
contact with them. They also prevent light from entering the water,
making it difficult for plants to get the energy they need to live and
for animals to find food.
Corrosives including battery acid, vinegar, some cleaning
compounds, acetic acid and cement wastes. The degree of
corrosiveness in liquids is measured in pH units. These range from 1
to 14, with 7 being neutral. Levels of pH outside the range 6-9
damage sensitive tissues such as eyes, gills and skin, make it
impossible for juvenile creatures to survive and burn or kill mature
fish, plants and insects.
13
Heavy Metals such as lead (for example, in old paint), zinc,
copper, cadmium, nickel and mercury inhibit plant growth and
poison aquatic creatures by accumulating in their bodies. Metals do
not break down in the environment. They build up through the food
chain and accumulate in the bed sediments of a water body.
Even a very small quantity of a pollutant, or just one accidental
discharge, can drastically alter the quality of a stream. Fish, insects
and plant life can be killed, habitats destroyed and the affected
stream can take many years to recover.
You may think that your little bit of waste can't harm the
environment. But when combined with that of a million others it
contributes to a massive amount of pollution that happens every
day. The added effects of this cause serious damage to our
environment and must be prevented. Dispose of waste
appropriately, and never allow your waste water to flow or be
washed down a stormwater drain.
It is illegal to cause pollution. There are substantial penalties,
including instant fines and imprisonment
Always use a dump station or proper sewerage system to
dispose of black and grey waste.
Never dispose of black or grey waste into water.
14
15
Key:
Railway
Minor Road
Approx 100m.
Hayes &
Harlington
Train Station
Trains to London
Paddington and
Ealing Broadway
Viveash Close
Trains to London
Heathrow
Airport, Oxford,
Reading and
Bristol
Number 140 bus to
Heathrow Airport
Station Road
Number 140 bus from
Heathrow Airport
Nestle’s Avenue
Turn left our of the station main entrance and cross the railway bridge. Turn left
onto Nestle’s Avenue. Pass the London Motor Museum. The Spaceships London
depot is on you left hand side.
Please make sure you refuel your Spaceship and have all of your gear packed up and rubbish
removed etc before returning your Spaceship to the depot.
16
Space Station Addresses
Hatters Hostel
Faoin Tuath
92-95 Livery St
Jewellery Quarter
Birmingham
B3 1RJ
Market Street
Clifden, Co. Market St
Galway, Ireland
Hatters Hostel
Camping Zeeburg
56-60 Mount Pleasant
Liverpool
L3 5SH
Zuider IJdiij 20
1095 KN
Amsterdam
Hatters Hostel
50 Newton Square
Camping Memling
Veltemweg 109 8310
The Northern Quarter
Manchester
M1 2EA
Brugge
Belgium
Oxford Camping & Caravanning
Club
426 Abingdon Road
Oxford
OX1 4XG
Camping Fusina
Loch Ness Holiday Park
Invermoriston, Inverness shire
01320-351207
Camping Colleverde
Camping Siena Colleverde
Strada Scacciapensieri 47
53100 Siena
Joe Brown’s Climbing Shop
Menai Hall
High Street
Llanberis
Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 4HA
Ullswater Steamers
The Square
Pooley Bridge
Nr Penrith
Cumbria
CA10 2NW
Clippesby Hall Campsite
Clippesby, Norfolk
NR29 3BL
PH: (01493) 367800
Via Moranzani
93 3003
Fusina – Venezia (VE)
Camping Tiber
Via Tiberina km 1.400
00188 Roma (Prima Porta)
Mortonhall Caravan &
Camping park
38 Mortonhall Gate
Frogston Road East
Edinburgh
EH16 6TJ
Camping Jungfrau
Weid 406,3822 Lauterbrunnen
Switzerland
Ph: 033 856 20 10
How to open the bonnet
17
The lever to open the bonnet is situated below right of the
steering wheel.
1. Pull the lever, which will make an opening noise as the
bonnet opens to the first stage.
2. From the outside of the vehicle
move around to the front of the
bonnet and find the release
catch, pull this catch to release
and raise the bonnet.
3. Hold the bonnet in place with
the stay.
How to check the engine coolant level
Look at the see-through coolant reservoir tank which you will
find under the bonnet on the left hand side. The coolant level
is satisfactory if the level is between the “Full” and “Low” lines
on the tank.
The coolant level in the reservoir tank will vary with the engine
temperature. However, if the level is on or below the “Low”
line add coolant until the line is on the “Full” line. If the
coolant level drops within a short time after refilling there may
18
be a leak in the system. Visually check the radiator cap, plug,
hoses, and the water pump for any leaks. To prevent burning
yourself, do not remove the cap when the engine is hot.
How to check the oil
1. Move the cooker to the out position.
2. Move the gas bottle.
3. Move the front passenger’s seat forward and collapse
the back of the seat (see figure 1).
4. Lift the yellow lever under the front passenger’s seat
and lift the entire seat back (see figure 1).
5. Lift the carpet to expose the engine check latch (see
figure 2).
6. Turn the knob to open the latch.
1
2
19
How to open the front sunroof
To open: Push up the lever to raise
the rear end of the sunroof.
To close: Pull down the lever and
turn it to the lock position.
Sunshade:
Open
and
close
manually.
How to
sunroof
open
the
rear
Operational when the ignition is
in the ON position.
To open: press the upper
(OPEN) side of switch 1
The deflector will automatically
lift up to prevent air coming into
the vehicle.
To close:
Twin sunroof type: Press the lower (close) side of switch 1
while pulling switch 2.
Canopy type: Press the lower (close) side of switch 1 while
pressing switch 2.
How to open the fuel lid
The fuel lid opening lever is found
to the right side of the driver’s
seat on the floor.
Please note: Use only regular
petrol 91 (the green pump)
The fuel tank capacity is 60 litres.
20
Tyre pressure
The pressure on the tyres should
be 35psi, if the presser is wrong
this will cause the tyre to wear
out sooner than they should,
If you hit a big pothole in the road this could cause the wheel
alignment to be knocked out and this will cause the tyres to
wear out sooner than they should.
How to change a tyre
The jack & tool bag are positioned under the right side of the
back seat.
1. Remove the cover under the right side of the seat
2. Loosen the jack and remove it from the Spaceship.
Using the jack
Make sure the engine is turned
off; the gear lever is in the
park
position;
and
the
handbrake
is
on
before
jacking-up the vehicle. While
the jack is in place do not go
into or ‘shake’ the Spaceship.
Do not go under the Spaceship
under any circumstances while
the jack is supporting the Spaceship.
1. Place the jack on the ground and extend it manually
until the jack enters the groove.
2. Insert the jack handle bar into the hole of the jack
handle.
3. Use the jack handle to raise the wheel slightly off the
ground.
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Spare tyre
The spare tyre is located under the
back of the Spaceship.
Pull out the frame for the bed
extension; roll up the section of carpet
between the
back of the
bed and back door. Loosen the
connection bolt of the jack handle
bar extender using the hole of the
jack handle and then fit the jack
handle to the jack handle bar extender.
Loosen the bolt on the floor with the jack handle & jack handle
bar extender.
Lift the holding wire slightly and
remove it from the hook.
When removing the tyre, care
should be taken not to drop it onto
your foot etc.
Down to the basics
After you have parked your Spaceship safely (on the firmest
flattest ground you can find), put a couple of bricks or a stone
beneath the tyres to make sure that it does not roll off the
jack. Bring your jack, spare wheel and wheel nut wrench to
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the work area. Loosen the nuts without having jacked up the
Spaceship, to prevent the wheel spinning. Turn counter
clockwise to loosen the nut until they don’t quite come off.
Next jack up the car. Remove the old wheel now. Put the
spare wheel on. Then tighten the nuts by doing opposing sides
as much as possible. Lower the jack so that the tyre rests on
the ground. Fully tighten the wheel nuts (a hard push with
your hand is enough). Lastly replace the hubcap or the plate.
Voila! You are ready to drive again.
How to turn the back seat
Pull the ‘recliner adjust belt’ and fold the back of the seat
forward.
To rotate, pull the lever at the front of the seat upwards, then
turn the seat.
When you have the seat in the position you desire, fold back
the back of the seat.
Caution this seat must be facing forward while driving. Take
care
of
fingers
when
performing
the
rotation.
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How to put up the back awning
Open the boot, remove awning bag, and
take out the awning. Find the window in
the middle of the awning. Directly above
the middle of the awning you will find a
chalk mark, line this chalk mark with the
corresponding mark on the boot catch,
now the awning is lined up correctly and
is ready to be fastened. Fix the top four or six press studs,
then attach the bottom six or eight, before pulling out the
frame, placing the bed board on it and attaching the Velcro
mattress piece. Now begin with fastening the press-studs up
the sides all the way to the top of the awning.
How to put up the side awning (optional feature)
Open boot and remove side awning support arms from the
back of the bed. Unzip the awning on the side of the roof rack.
Pull out the awning poles from the roof rack, unroll the awning
(pulling it gently forwards) and connect the end bar to the two
awning poles. Take the longer of the two side awning support
arms and attach to the left hand side end bar, with the other
end fastening on the passenger side door handle. Attach the
shorter support arm to the right hand side end bar, with the
other end fastening on the handle of the sliding door (sliding
door must be in the open position). Attach the left hand side
bungee cord to the front wheel, and the right hand side
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bungee cord to the back bumper. (Reverse these instructions
and carefully zip up to pack away).
How to use your gas stove
(Instructions courtesy of ESC Europe Ltd)
1. First make sure the gas tap controls are in the ‘OFF’ position’
2. Connect the gas canister onto the regulator which is attached to a
hose leading to the cooker. Please be sure to screw tight until you
hear a ‘pssst’ sound of gas releasing. If the regulator has a
‘ON/OFF’ lever turn this now onto ‘ON’.
3. Check the use of soapy water for any gas leakage between the
bottle and the regulator and the appliance connection to the
cooker.
4. Open the lid and secure the side shields in position. Turn one of
the control knobs turning anti-clockwise to the + position whilst
fully depressing the red ignition button at least 5 times, this will
light the burner. If the burner does not light then repeat the
process.
5. If the burner has not litafter two attempts, turn off the gas tap,
wait 5 minutes and repeat step 4.
6. Too turn the stove ‘OFF’ turn the gas canister or regulator switch
to the ‘OFF’ position and then turn all of the control knobs on the
appliance clockwise to the ‘OFF’ position when the flame has
extinguished.
Warning: If the burner fails to ignite, turn the control knob off (clockwise)
and also turn the cannister valve off before attempting to to relight the
ignition sequence.
Never use the stove with the lid in the closed position (transport position)
as this will burn off the paint and affect the safe operation of the appliance
Always wait for the appliance to cool down before attempting to close the
lid for transport. Clean in warm soapy water only.
25
Understanding your electrical system
Alternator
Charges batteries while motor is
running
Main
Battery
Supplies power for all normal car
requirements e.g. starter, lights
heater but not DVD cooler or large
internal light.
Regulator
Regulator- ensures main battery is
always charged only when that is
charged does extra power go to
secondary battery.
Secondary
Battery
Supplies power for:
1, Radio/DVD
2, Cooler
3, Large internal light
4, Gas alarm
Plan your power conservation
1, if all the secondary battery appliances are used at the same
time the battery will last about 1-2 hours.
2, If appliances are left on, secondary battery will become so
flat that the alternator can no longer charger it up, and it will
just boil the water in it. This will cause it to no longer hold a
charge and the battery will need to be replaced.
3, Turn off all unnecessary appliances.
4, Keep radio/DVD volume down – higher the volume the
more power used.
26
How to put on snow chains
Snow chains can be hired at petrol stations and hire stores in
the snow areas all around New Zealand. Only use chains on
the rear wheels of your vehicle. Make sure that the chains are
not too loose when driving. Do not drive over 30 km/hr with
snow chains. Follow the instructions that are with the snow
chains on installation. Make sure the chains are properly
installed before driving. However follow the diagrams below
Practice before you get to the snow. Chains sometimes need
to be adjusted to the physical tyre that you are using. To
install snugly, you may need a couple of bungee cords to add
some tension. It is best to sort this out, before you're snowed
in.
27
Automatic Transmission
P
P: Park: The transmission should be placed in this
position when parked and starting or turning off the
engine. Keys can be removed from the ignition only
when the lever is in this position.
R
R: Reverse: For Reversing.
N
N: Neutral: The vehicle may be started in this gear,
however its main use is for when the vehicle is
stationary with the engine in idle mode.
D
2
L
28
D: Drive: In this gear pressing the accelerator will
move the vehicle forward through the gearing from 1-4
and then back down again depending on the speed and
power desired. This gear should be used for standard
driving.
2: Second: Use as a stronger engine brake for
travelling up/down steep hills.
L: Low: This is the strongest engine brake. Used for
very steep hills etc: However care should be taken not
to go too fast in this gear. Its purpose is for low speed
power and heavy engine braking.
Warning Lights
Overdrive Switch
Pressing the OVERDRIVE switch (found at the
of the gear lever) will engage a high-ratio 4th
O/D
gear (overdrive gear) during vehicle operation
OFF
with the shift lever in D decreasing fuel
consumption and reducing engine noise
levels.
When the switch is depressed the overdrive function is on.
O/D OFF indicator light will be on.
It is recommended to have the switch on (depressed) during
normal vehicle operation. When travelling downhill and the
engine brake is required, it is recommended that this switch be
off (out). If the switch is off when travelling uphill, smooth
driving can be achieved because gear changes will be reduced.
Battery warning light
This light shows when there is a problem with
the battery charging system. Should this light
come on while driving it may indicate a broken
belt etc. Stop the vehicle in a safe place and
contact the Spaceships office.
Oil pressure warning light
Should this light show (except on start), oil
pressure is low. Pull over to a safe place and
contact the Spaceships office. This indicator is
not a indicator for low oil level.
29
Oil level warning light
This light will show if the engine oil level is
low. Check engine oil level immediately.
OIL
LEVEL
Exhaust temperature warning light
This light will appear on ignition, but will turn
off after a few seconds. If this warning light
shows together with the Battery Warning
light, the Temperature of the Catalytic
converter has risen above normal. Park the
vehicle in a safe place where there are no materials that may
catch fire such as dead plant and stop the engine for 10
minutes. If the light goes out after restarting the engine, it is
safe to drive. Should the light remain on or appear again, call
the Spaceships office.
Engine warning light
Should this light appear there is a fault
within the vehicle’s electrical system or, the
engine itself. Contact the Spaceships office
immediately.
Brake warning light
This light will appear under the following
conditions.
1. When the hand brake is on.
2. When the brake fluid is low.
If this light does not go out when the hand
brake is released, stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact
the Spaceships office. If an abnormal metallic sound is heard
while driving, the brake disc pad may be worn. Call the
Spaceships office.
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Blown light warning light:
This light will show when a bulb of the tail
light or brake light is blown.
If this light shows when the light switch is
ON, a tail light bulb is blown.
If this light shows when the brake pedal is depressed, a brake
light bulb is blown.
Auto transmission oil temperature warning light:
(4 WD vehicles only)
This light should come on once the ignition
is turned On and go out after the engine is A/T OIL
started.
TEMP
Should this warning light show while driving,
the
automatic
transmission
oil
has
overheated. Pull over to a safe place; place the vehicle in P
(park) and wait for a few minutes with the engine idling.
Should the light go out it is safe to drive.
Should the light stay on, do not drive and contact the
Spaceship office.
Tilt Steering
The lever found behind the
steering wheel is used to set the
height of the steering wheel.
Return the lever to its original
position to lock the steering
wheel in place.
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Road Restrictions
Spaceships can only be driven on sealed/bitumen or well maintained roads.
The vehicles are NOT insured for any country outside
of the EU.
The hirer is responsible for all damage if travelling on
these roads, as there is no insurance protection cover.
Safe Driving In the UK & Europe
The law requires all people to wear a safety seatbelt whilst travelling. In
the UK & Ireland drive on the left hand side of the road – on continental
Europe drive on the right hand side of the road.
Traffic Infringements
Spaceships reserves the right to charge any traffic infringement notice,
speeding or parking fines, associated administration costs and/or accidents
including unreported third party damage, direct to the customer's account
or credit card. A £30 admin charge will be taken from the hirers credit
card for each infringement handled. The hirer remains liable for the
payment of the infringement.
Breakdowns and Accident Assistance
All vehicles are fully maintained, serviced and detailed between rentals by
our experienced staff. We have few problems; however, if advice or
assistance is required, support is available to every client throughout the
UK & Europe by telephoning our depot on +44 (0) 208 573 2300 or the
Emergency number +44 (0) 7751044583.
You must call us immediately to report an accident.
Problems with Vehicle
Any problems associated with the vehicle, including equipment failure,
must be reported to Spaceships as soon as possible, and within 24 hours,
in order to give Spaceships the opportunity to rectify the problem during
the rental. We do not accept liability for any claims submitted after this
period. Repairs up to £50 may be undertaken without authorisation and will
be reimbursed. However if possible, even with these minor purchases,
please inform us at Spaceships beforehand. For amounts over £50,
Spaceships must be contacted in advance. Repairs will be approved
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provided the hirer was not directly responsible for the damage. Receipts
must be submitted for any repair or the claim will not be paid.
What to do if you breakdown
If you have any mechanical troubles in space we provide free RAC 24 hour
roadside assistance 0800 616 300. Any costs you incur for minor repairs
we will give you a refund (up to £50); you just need to produce receipts.
Where possible please inform Spaceships about these purchases in
advance.
You must contact us immediately if any major repairs are needed for your
Spaceship. Failure to do so may compromise any claim that may eventuate
after the hire is finished. Spaceships Ltd is only liable for refunding the
time that the vehicle was actually in repair and will pay for alternative
accommodation during this time where needed (up to four days).
Alternative accommodation is only provided where necessary and sleeping
in the vehicle is not an option. If your DVD/CD player, fridge, water pump
or cooker malfunctions while you are travelling they are not considered
mechanical breakdowns and downtime will not be paid for these items.
Retrospective claims will not be accepted by Spaceships Ltd.
What to do if you have an accident
If you and your Spaceship are involved in an accident, there are some
basic things that will help you:
Try to stay as calm as you can.
Stop straight away and help anyone who’s injured. Call an ambulance on
112 (or get someone to call an ambulance), if it’s needed.
If an animal has been injured, tell its owner or the person looking after it.
If you can’t find anyone, tell the Police as soon as you can.
Give your name and address to the driver of any car that’s been damaged
and to the owner of any property that’s been damaged. If other drivers are
involved, try to find out whether they’re insured and who they’re insured
with.
Don’t admit that the accident was your fault – it is important to look at all
the available information following the stress of the accident. You may later
find out other reasons why the accident occurred.
If you can’t drive your Spaceship after the accident, protect it to prevent
any more loss or damage, such as by taking it to the side of the road and
locking it. Take your personal possessions with you.
Notify the Police as soon as possible – within 24 hours as required to by
law. And you must call us immediately to report an accident.
+44 (0) 208 573 2300 or +44 (0) 7751044583
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What you need to provide us with:
Spaceships office will need you to fill an accident claims form which would
have bene given to you in your Space Survival Kit at the start of your trip.
You will need to provide us with as much information as possible. This will
include:
The details of who was driving your Spaceship at the time of the accident
(including their drivers license details)
The details of any other people, (including their insurance details) who may
have been involved, e.g.
The owner and/or driver of the other vehicle
The owner of any animal involved
The owner of any property damaged
A detailed drawing of the accident.
Your bond will be charged & retained by Spaceships until liability is
established by the insurers. If a 3rd party is deemed at fault the bond will
be wavered and refunded.
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What's different about
driving in the UK & in
Europe?
Driving is a great way to explore the amazing
sights of Europe! However, there are a few
things that you may not be used to when
driving in the UK & Europe. For example:
 In the UK & Ireland you drive on the left side
of the road
 Continental Europe drive on the right side of
the road
 The speed limit in the UK & Ireland is in
Miles per hour (mph) and the other
European Countries are in Kilometres per
hour (km/h)
 Your Spaceship speedometer is in MPH
Make sure you have a safe and enjoyable journey please take a few minutes to read this before starting
out.
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Giving way at intersections
Always use your indicators when turning.
Stop completely then give way (yield) to all
traffic.
Slow down and be ready to stop and give way
to all traffic.
At an intersection where one vehicle will cross
the path of another, and both are waiting on
stop or give way signs (or where there are no
signs),special give way rules apply.
Travelling times
Although distances may seem short on paper, some European
roads may be narrower than you are used to, cover hilly terrain
and vary from motorways to unsealed gravel roads.
If you're tired you're much more likely to have a crash. Here
are some tips to help you stay alert.






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Get lots of rest before a long drive.
Take a break from driving every two hours.
If possible, share the driving with someone else.
Avoid large meals and drink plenty of fluid.
If you begin to feel sleepy, try to nap for up to 40
minutes.
If you're feeling very tired - find a place to stay
overnight.
Driving speeds
Speed limit signs show the maximum speed you can travel.
However, at times you may need to drive at a slower speed
due to road or weather conditions.
Different speed limits apply throughout the UK & Europe - look
out for the speed limit signs.
In the UK & Ireland speed limit signs are in Miles. On main
roads in these countries the speed limit is 70 MPH. In
Continental Europe the speed limit signs are in Kilometres. On
most of Europe’s main roads the speed limit is 100 – 120km/h
unless a sign says a lower speed applies.
Safety belts
By law, everyone in the vehicle must wear a
safety belt - whether they're in the front or the
back.
Alcohol
Don't drink and drive - the laws against this are strictly
enforced in the UK & Europe and penalties are severe.
Mobile Phones
The use of hand-held mobile phones while driving is illegal in
most countries.
Overtaking
Most roads in the UK & Europe,
which are not motorway, have a
single lane each way, but provide
passing lanes at regular intervals
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– these should be used where possible. You must not cross a
solid yellow line on your side of the centre-line, as this
indicates it’s too dangerous to overtake.
One lane bridges
Many places throughout Europe have one lane bridges on
them. At one lane bridges, vehicles travelling in one direction
must give way to vehicles going in the other direction.
Any of the signs shown below indicate that you are
approaching a one lane bridge. Slow down and check for
traffic coming the other way. The smaller red arrow shows
which direction has to give way.
These two signs show you
must give way to traffic
coming the other way
across the bridge.
This sign indicates you can
proceed across the bridge.
Animals on the road
Watch out for farm animals and horses on the
road, particularly in rural areas. When you see
them slow down and do not sound your horn - it
may startle them. You may need to stop and let
the animals go past you or move slowly up
behind and follow the farmer's instructions.
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Winter driving
Look out for this slippery surface sign in wet or
icy conditions - slow down and avoid braking
suddenly.
Snow and ice can make roads even more
hazardous, particularly around mountain
passes. It is your responsibility to purchase/hire
snow chains if they are required.
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Are you a Space Traveller?
If you love Spaceships and would
like to help us spread the word, then this deal is for
you.
Come see us in our London office after your hire and if you’re
convincing enough we’ll invite you to register as a ‘Space
Traveller’ which means discounts on hire anywhere in
Australia, New Zealand and the UK!
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Thanks for reading – we hope you have a safe and happy
journey in outer space!!
Cheers,
The Spaceship Crew
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Spaceships
Ph +44 (0) 208 573 2300
EMERGENCY Number: +44 (0) 7751044583
www.spaceshipsrentals.co.uk
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