I noticed the other day that one of the cockpit bases was dry and the other one had water in it. On investigation I discovered that the base had corroded through and the water was leaking into the rear berth.

I hunted the web and thought I had found a match at Force 4 but when they arrived they were very lightly made and a much smaller diameter. They also only had 6 screwholes instead of the originals 8. I have searched all the caravan and boat on line shops but found nothing to match the originals.

Has anybody replaced one of these and or know a supplier of the original?

I don't have a 275, but the type of removable tubular table legs, with a choice of recessed or surface mount sockets that I assume that you are referring to, used to be sold under the Desmo brand name as long ago as the '70s.

Over the years, the idea has been widely copied internationally for both the marine and caravan market, in various materials.

If you search Google and Google Images with "Desmo table" (& leg, & base), you will find many variants, often described as "Desmo type", some in alloy, some in powder coated steel , some in stainless, some with 6 hole fixings, some with 8 holes eg at Norfolk Marine, Midland Chandlers and even on eBay.

Hope that this helps you track down the right variant.

sincerely

Geoff Sheddick

Parker 27/146 "Stroller'

Floor Base Plate, Part No 350597

After a bit of discussion and measuring I now have two of the correct table leg bases from Midland Chandlers part No CF-163 for £12.95 each.

I also received a full refund + postage from Force 4 as they recognised their photograph was misleading!

Recesses in base now painted with hammerite to slow down corrosion from collected water. To be fitted this Saturday before launch on the 31st March, weather permitting.

Thanks all.

Andrew

VELA 275/40