1 Juli 2025
The tractor that keeps the campsite in tip-top condition
Sollids Camping on the island of Orust is in a magical location, next to cliffs and opportunities for sea bathing. Here, a trusty Ford 4610 tractor dating from 1988, along with the driving forces behind the campsite, ensure that everything is kept in top condition – so that both people and machines can flourish.
Sollids Camping is located near Edshultshall on Orust – a real gem with sea views, orderly pitches and a warm sense of community. Here you will find the kind of tranquility that only a sunny west coast campsite can offer, although work is constantly being carried out behind the scenes to keep the area in tip-top condition. To help with these duties, they have a really well-maintained blue Ford 4610 dating from 1988.
The tractor doing the work
The tractor moved here in 2010 from a farm in Linköping, since when it has been a natural part of day-to-day life at the campsite. It tows caravans, transports gravel and sand, collects timber and helps rake seaweed on the beach. It is also used for moving decking and other construction projects. The rest of the campsite’s assortment of tools is equally impressive – with a bucket, a sorting bucket and a chipper that enthusiast Ulf Friman has carefully renovated, working alongside machine manager Per Ola “Peo” Lindpil.
– Both the chipper and the tractor are in better condition now than when they arrived, says Ulf with a smile.
Lovingly maintained
In addition to the annual and any other required services, the tractor has been extra lovingly maintained, including rustproofing all around and repainted doors, fenders and roof, updated lighting including emergency lighting and warning lights, and the installation of a fire extinguisher. All from Olsson Parts.
– Don’t forget the tractor’s new seat, Peo points out, and Ulf shows a picture of the old, damaged seat with its fabric upholstery. The new one is fresh, with integrated suspension, an adjustable backrest and durable PVC upholstery.
– Olsson Parts supplies our spare parts, obviously. Using the registration number, we can easily find the right parts. I do miss the old store, but the product boxes work well – and the fact that you can call and get personal assistance makes everything even better, says Ulf.
A local workshop is responsible for the service work, but all maintenance and upgrades are carried out on site, often in the campsite’s own tractor garage and workshop. Here you can also find a ride-on lawnmower, a flatbed moped and several other machines that help to keep the area in tip-top condition.
A non-profit, vibrant community
Sollids Camping, which was launched back in 1962, is largely run by volunteers and currently has 135 pitches, 100 of which are seasonal. During the high season, only Caravan Club members are able to book in advance, although guests without membership can book night by night subject to availability.
There are a number of service buildings here, as well as a reception, a youth room, a meeting room and a pub in the barn. The sauna overlooking the Kråksund Gap is the icing on the cake.
Both machines and people flourish here
– There is a really wonderful community here, says Peo. Everyone encourages each other, helps out and makes sure everyone is happy.
And this doesn’t only apply to the people. The machines seem to be just as happy. The Blue Ford, which is almost 40 years old, is still going strong and is put to work every day. The sun is shining on the campsite and the atmosphere is great. Olsson Parts’ representatives can’t help but feel that, in their own way, they are part of what makes the campsite so enjoyable.
Read more about Sollids Camping and Caravan Club HERE.