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Topic: Scratches on windows of new tent.

moochbert

14/2/2015 at 4:37pm
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We just bought a Vango exodus 800 8 person tent from Casey's outdoor leisure.

The first one we got sent had a small hole in one of the windows, which let in water, so we sent it back.

Casey's replaced it without any fuss.

Unfortunately, on inspecting the second tent, we noticed straight away that one of the windows has several scratches about 1 inch across (see photo). I can feel that they are cut into the window and not just on the surface. They don't seem to be letting in water, but I am concerned that over time, with weathering and storage, they will crack and split.

We're quite new to camping so I'm wondering whether we have just been unlucky or if this is something that is often encountered with new tents. This model does have a lot of windows (7 in total).

In addition to these scratches there are several places on the windows where the plastic has been 'pinched' (see photo). Again I am concerned that over time, these may turn into holes.

I will be contacting Casey's shortly, but I thought I'd see if anyone else might have experienced this.

In summary:

Is damage like this common in new (Vango) tents?
Is it likely to become a problem over time?

Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Photo of scratches

Photo of pinching

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Campernic

14/2/2015 at 7:38pm
Location: Northern Ireland
Outfit: Bell Tent Vango Coleman and Quechua

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No, that is not normal with Vango tents. You can always get a dud one, as with any make or model. I just think you've been unlucky.

It almost looks like this panel has been under another one that was being cut with a stanley knife or something like that. I'd have thought all pieces were cut out using a press - I very much doubt if any panels are hand cut. Maybe something got trapped in a roller. The 'pinch' damage is different though. I'd be going back to Caseys if I were you. Just in case they've got a batch of this model from the same production line it might be a good idea to look in to alternative models as well.

Bob61

14/2/2015 at 11:28pm
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One damaged tent is enough, but two damaged tents? I think I would be wanting my money back and go to another supplier.

moochbert

16/2/2015 at 12:18pm
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Thanks for the advice. I called Casey's this morning, then sent them the photo from above of the scratches.

This is their response:

"I’ve forwarded these onto Vango and see what they say. I think the best option and what Vango will want to do is actually get your tent up to their warranty repair centre, in which they’ll replace the full window then test.

This way, you’ll know that everything is working – without having to open up the tent and check again."

As I said, I'm new to camping, so I'm wondering if this IS the best way to proceed. I'm hesitant because I've been in this position before with electrical goods where a newly purchased faulty item goes off to be repaired and comes back even worse and then you have a helluva time getting any joy from the original supplier.

I just took a look at the stitching around the window, and I would be surprised if the panel could be removed and a new one restitched without it looking like a very obvious repair.

This photo shows the double stitching which is on all 4 sides and the same thread is used to stitch the vent below too.

Would you be happy going for the repair as suggested?

Also has anyone had that 'pinching' effect on their tent windows? I'm guessing its where the plastic has been folded and pressed in such a way that it turns the window opaque in that spot.

Cheers.

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kazo2014

16/2/2015 at 3:19pm
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I would tell them to take a running jump with that response! its upto caseys as the dealer to make sure they are selling goods fit for the purpose, and as this is your second one from them I would suggest that they arrange a tent to be put up for your inspection prior to the exchange taking place and subject to it being fully satisfactory for them to repack the tent, failing that inform them that you will be requiring a full refund

kazo2014

16/2/2015 at 3:32pm
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just one more question but why is the window wet?

moochbert

17/2/2015 at 5:43pm
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I let them know I wasn't happy for a repair, just waiting to see what they say as I spoke to 2 different people yesterday. They've been very good so far, so I'm hopeful they will arrange a replacement.

Window was wet because it rained yesterday.

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sammy101

17/2/2015 at 8:47pm
Location: Stourbridge
Outfit: Vango Icarus 500 outwell vermont xlp

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I had a problem with my outwell side extension the tension strap snapped on its first strike.
Took it back to where I brought it from and had it replaced - as well as the whole tent too- as the design had changed and they wouldn't have matched.
-

Previous tent I had from same please but different brand - van go and windows - straight replacement .
So I've had mixed responses but both had the same outcome - replacements.
Good luck

moochbert

12/3/2015 at 7:15pm
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Casey's were perfectly happy to replace the tent again and in fact, I would highly recommend them based on this purchase.

The 3rd tent we are keeping (phew, got there in the end).

It did have some issues. There were very minor scratches on some of the windows but we tested them thoroughly for leaks and they weren't letting any water in.

Also, there was a plastic buckle missing on one of the straps and a crack in the pump. When I informed Caseys of these, they contacted Vango and replacement parts were with me in a couple of days.

So, overall impressed with Caseys, but less so with Vango's quality control. It does make me wonder how many people buy a tent then go camping without testing it, only to find problems.

Thanks for the advice. Really excited now to plan some holidays.

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