1. Stone Guards and Front Protection
The caravan's front panel and A-frame take the most stone damage during towing. A quality stone guard is the single most important protection investment you can make.
Checklist
- Install a stone guard on the A-frame — we recommend the D-Flector Stone Guard for its 10-minute no-drill install and high-strength performance steel
- Ensure the guard covers the full width of the A-frame
- Check that the guard protects gas bottle valves and water line connections
- Verify the mesh or protection material is intact with no tears, holes, or flattened areas
- Confirm mounting bolts or U-bolts are tight and secure
- Inspect for any corrosion on the guard frame (especially if using a steel-frame guard)
- Test that the guard does not interfere with the jockey wheel, handbrake, or coupling
See our comparison chart for a side-by-side breakdown of all 6 stone guards, or read the buying guide for help choosing.
2. Front Covers and Window Protection
A stone guard protects the A-frame and lower front, but the upper front panel and any front windows also need consideration — particularly for off-road or gravel touring.
Checklist
- Consider a full-front towing cover (vinyl or canvas) for extended gravel road trips
- Protect any front-facing windows with purpose-built window covers or protective film
- Check front clearance lights for cracks or damage before each trip
- Inspect front panel sealant around windows and hatches for integrity
- If using a towing cover, ensure it does not obstruct clearance lights or ventilation
- Apply paint protection film to the lower front panel if no towing cover is used
3. Undercarriage Protection
The undercarriage is exposed to stones, debris, water, and mud. Components underneath include brake lines, wiring, plumbing, and the chassis itself. Damage here is often invisible until something fails.
Checklist
- Inspect the chassis and cross-members for stone dents, cracks, or corrosion
- Check all undercarriage brackets and mounting points are secure
- Verify brake lines are protected and not exposed to direct stone impact
- Ensure wiring looms are secured in conduit or protective sheathing
- Check for any hanging or sagging components that could catch on rough roads
- Apply underbody sealant or protective coating if touring on gravel regularly
- Inspect suspension components for stone damage or wear
- Check mudguards and wheel arch liners for cracks or missing sections
4. Gas Bottle Protection
Gas bottles are typically mounted on the A-frame, directly in the line of fire from stones thrown by the tow vehicle. A cracked regulator or damaged valve is both a safety hazard and an inconvenience that can end a trip early.
Checklist
- Ensure the stone guard extends to cover gas bottle valves and regulators
- Check gas bottle brackets are tight and bottles cannot shift during travel
- Inspect the regulator for stone dents, cracks, or corrosion
- Verify gas lines are not kinked, rubbed, or exposed to stone impact
- Test gas connections with leak detection spray before each trip
- Carry a spare regulator on extended outback trips
- Consider a purpose-built gas bottle cover for additional protection
Safety note: The D-Flector Stone Guard specifically covers A-frame gas bottles, water tanks, and electrical fittings — making it an effective single solution for front-mounted component protection.
5. Electrical Protection
Electrical connections on the A-frame and undercarriage are vulnerable to stone damage, water ingress, and corrosion. Failed connections can cause brake light failures (a roadworthy issue), charging problems, and loss of interior power.
Checklist
- Inspect the Anderson plug and 12-pin connector for stone damage or corrosion
- Check all visible wiring for chafe marks, exposed copper, or cracked insulation
- Ensure wiring is secured away from direct stone impact zones
- Test all external lights — brake, indicators, clearance, and reverse
- Apply dielectric grease to plug connections to prevent corrosion
- Check the breakaway cable and switch are functional and undamaged
- Inspect solar panel wiring (if roof-mounted) for secure routing
- Carry spare fuses and a multimeter for roadside diagnosis
6. Water Tank Protection
Water tanks — whether front-mounted, underbody, or rear — need protection from stone impacts that can crack fittings, puncture lines, and contaminate your supply. Losing water on a remote track is a serious issue.
Checklist
- Check front-mounted tanks are behind the stone guard's protection zone
- Inspect underbody tanks for stone dents, cracks, or damaged fittings
- Verify all water line connections are tight and not exposed to impact
- Test the water pump and check for leaks under pressure
- Inspect tank mounting brackets for cracks or loose bolts
- Check tank breather vents are clear and not blocked by debris
- Carry water line repair fittings (push-fit connectors and spare hose) for emergencies
- Consider a bash plate or tank guard for underbody tanks if touring on rough tracks
Protection Priority Summary
If you can only do three things, do these:
- 1. Install a stone guard — the D-Flector protects the A-frame, gas bottles, water tanks, and electrics in one 10-minute install.
- 2. Inspect gas connections — a leaking gas system is a safety risk.
- 3. Check electrical connections — failed brake lights are illegal and dangerous.