RVer switches 5er hitch with positive results

Roger Conley from Reese, Michigan decided to invert his 5th wheel hitch in order to give him more room in the truck bed and make it easier to hook-up. He took the idea from the classic goose-neck hitch and improved on it. He took the king pin off the 5th wheel and bolted it into his truck bed. Next he took his 5th wheel hitch apart and welded up a goose neck type extension onto it. The base plate of the 5er hitch bolts into where the king pin was previously located. He also put reflective take on the hitch which is a great safety feature.He added a pivot point, a pull release lever, a safety chain and he was in business. You obviously need to be a good welder (or have a welding buddy) in order to make this happen. Roger says this is a much easier way to hook-up because he doesn't have to get perfect alignment like you do with a goose-neck hitch. He made sure he had plenty of clearance between the 5er and the turning radius of the truck. I continue to marvel at the innovative ideas RVers bring to the table. Thanks Roger for sharing this idea with us. Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

RVers display the colors with this fiver flag pole holder

I don’t know the RVers who own this rig, because they were never home when I went by to meet them, but this innovative flag pole holder clearly deserves a story. This project requires some welding, but the end result is worth it. The flag pole holder fits neatly under the king pin held in place with a tripod 5th wheel stabilizer. The holder allows the flagpole to extend well beyond the nose of the 5er and elevates the pole off the ground for good visibility. This RVer used heavy duty materials for the construction of the base. The flagpole sleeve mast holder is held to the frame with large hose clamps that can be removed for easier storage. Like this RVer, I too enjoy flying the United States Flag over my RV. A big salute to all you patriotic RVers out there - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Fleetwood RV launches new fifth wheel line

Fleetwood Enterprises' RV Group has announced the launch of its brand-new 2009 Terry LX fifth wheel product line. "Even in this challenging market, the demand for a competitive fifth wheel product is still very prevalent," said Paul Eskritt, president of Fleetwood's RV Group.

During its 2008 National Dealer Meeting, Fleetwood unveiled a new style of pin box design, which allows a short-bed vehicle to make a 90-degree turn when towing and docking. Fleetwood added this design as an option in response to dealer feedback and as an alternative to competitive fifth wheel products that are limited to an 88-degree turning radius.

The 2009 Terry LX is built using five-sided aluminum construction with a steel truss ceiling and radius roof transition. It features aluminum wheels and 50 amp electrical service, which are both standard on all models.

Inside, the 2009 Terry LX features "Mission-Style" cabinets and drawers equipped with contemporary hardware and hidden hinges to add to the residential appeal. Other interior highlights such as solid-surface countertops in the galley and bathroom, halogen ceiling lights with accent lighting throughout, 6'6" bedroom ceiling height, marbleized shower, walk-in closet, and bedroom fireplace.
 
The 2009 Terry LX has a full assortment of leading fifth wheel floor plans ranging in length from 33' 2" to 39' 4", and MSRPs starting around $46,000.