With a headline like that, how could you not read further? The fact that the frustrations of three marketing women executives, who got tired of lugging huge pocketbooks around, was the impetus for what would become the Racktrap speaks for its value to women who would like to quickly access money, credit cards, license, ATM cards and a key without rummaging through a purse.
Put simply, the Racktrap is a soft 4 1/2″ X 3 1/2″ pocket, that fits safely (thwarts pickpockets), comfortably, and dry inside a bra. It is large enough to hold essentials for running errands, trips to the gym, a morning jog, an afternoon hike, or for any other reason when you don’t need your entire purse.
Which is why (you may have guessed) it would be a very useful item for RVers that don’t want to lug along the kitchen sink on all those short trips we make around the campground, to the store, the beach, or on a bike ride through the forest.
The Racktrap is available in a Fashion Three Pack of white, nude and black lace, and a water-resistant sport version with colors to match every bra. Check it out on the Racktrap website or buy it on Amazon.
You can find Bob Difley’s RVing ebooks onAmazon Kindle.
The fateful day may come to you, fellow RVer, when your roof vent crank gets cranky. You turn and turn that knob or crank, and nothing happens. Roof vent “operators,” as these mechanical crank assemblies are properly called, can just get cranky. At best, they’ll stop working when it’s hot inside your rig and you need some air. At worst, they’ll go on strike the moment rain threatens and your vent is wide open to the elements.
A broken-down vent operator doesn’t signal the need to replace the entire vent assembly. Not only is replacing a vent a far more labor-intensive proposition requiring access to the roof, it’s also more expensive. A complete roof vent replacement can set you back $50 (plus the cost of sealants), but we recently traded out a cranky operator for less than $10, with no additional supplies needed. And best of all, it’s a quick replacement, usually taking less than 20 minutes.
First you’ll need to get the right beast, because not all roof vents use the same operators. You’ll need to get direct access to the operator by removing the vent screen. These are held in place in a variety of ways. You may find a couple of screws hold the screen assembly in place, or you may have to remove the plastic bezel (trim plate) from the ceiling.
With the operator in plain sight, you’ll make two critical measurements. First, the operator mechanism itself: that little slug of metal that the crank or operator knob seats into. Two screws hold this mechanism to the roof vent frame. Measure the center-to-center distance where the mounting screws hold the operator mechanism to the frame.
Measure both arm length and distance between mounting hole centers. The next measurement is of the operator arm length. This distance is measured from the arm’s pivot point on the operator mechanism out to the center of the “button” on the end of the arm. That button is the attachment point between the operator arm and the roof vent itself.
Armed with these figures, you’ll find most RV supply stores will have what you need, or you can order them on the Internet.
With your new operator ready, you’ll need to remove the old assembly. If you haven’t already done so, remove the crank knob or handle. It’s typically a conventional machine screw. Next, remove the two operator mechanism screws from the frame. You may find that the button on the end of the arm is held in the vent’s “track” with a small metal clip. Pull the clip loose and hang onto it. You may need to finesse the arm a bit to get it to come out through the vent frame, but persevere.
Replacement is pretty straightforward—it’s a “reverse order of removal” thing, but occasionally you may get a curve ball. In our case, the generic “button” on the end of the operator arm was a bit wider than the original, and it wouldn’t fit through the slotted opening in the vent frame. We had to gently “persuade” the slot open a bit wider with the business end of a crow bar. Fit the button in the vent track, and install the retaining clip; hopefully you got a new one in your package, but the old one can be used if needed. You may need to raise the vent lid a few inches to get everybody on the same page.
Now reinstall the operator mounting screws and put back the screen and trim as required.
A special note to vintage Airstream owners: A lot of Airstream folks have come up against cranky operators, or “openers” as the community often refers to them. Yours are a bit different from conventional RV roof vents, as they use two operators per vent, and don’t have an “arm” as such.
Early Airstreams used Hehr brand openers, and as you probably know by now, they’re not available on the market. If yours has frozen up and refuses to budge, don’t give up all hope. Look yours over closely and develop a plan of attack to remove the stuck openers. Once they’re in hand, soak them in penetrating solvent overnight (or maybe even longer). Often the solvent trick will resurrect a seemingly dead opener.
If it works, reinstall the critter, and then every year, work in a light application of lithium grease or a Teflon-containing lubricant.
One more trick from an Airstream aficionado: If your vent screen suffered damage around the operator holes, seal the damage by applying silicon sealant to one side of a steel washer. Use the operator handles to hold the new “seal” washer in place while the silicon sets up
If your RV is tucked away for a winter’s nap, it may be time for you to briefly awaken the beast and check things out—just to prevent yourself from having a few surprises when it’s time to travel. There are several good things you can do to check up on your slumbering RV. It might actually prove to be kind of fun to do.
Electrical: Assuming your shore power is disconnected, it’s a good time to check on your battery status. Using your digital voltmeter, take a quick check of your battery voltage. A “full” battery will read no less than 12.6 volts; if it’s down to 12.25, it’s a good time to stick the charger on. If it’s way down—to say less than 12 volts, and it’s cold out, MAKE SURE THE BATTERY ISN’T FROZEN before you try charging it. Pull the caps and look close.
Heat It Up: With the shore power hooked up and propane valves open, fire up the heat. This will not only test furnace operation, it’ll also provide you some personal comfort, and you can always explain to skeptics that you’re driving out moisture.
Leaks? A water leak that is ignored will lead to certain disaster. Examine your rig closely, everywhere. Step through the rig and open ceiling-mounted cabinets. Water leakage from near the sidewalls often hides out here. Examine carefully around roof vents. And don’t forget to look down as well—trim and marker lights that “let loose” can allow water to intrude.
Work your way throughout the coach, don’t let any area go unchecked. You’ll do well to open any basement storage or other outside compartments to make sure that compartment door seals haven’t been compromised.
Engines, Mr. Scott? If your RV is motorized, pop the hood and check fluid levels. If all is well, then proceed to fire up the engine. It certainly won’t hurt to run it up to operating temp, and ensure there aren’t any unusual noises or smoke where it ought not to be. While you’re on it, if you’re equipped with “dashboard air conditioning,” be sure to run that for a few minutes as well. This will help keep the seals conditioned—keeping your coolant in the correct places, and regular exercising of the compressor is always a good idea.
On the Level: If your rig is equipped with hydraulic levelers, consider running them in and out. Look for any unusual events, noises, jerking, anything that’s not normal.
A New Generation? If your coach has an on-board generator, be sure to fire it up and run it for a few minutes. In fact, it’s wise to put a load on it. Here might be a good time to run the coach air-conditioning unit as the load, killing two birds as they say.
Plumbing: Since you’ve most likely winterized your plumbing system, there’s little to be done here.
Chilling Out: While you won’t be able to do a complete refrigerator test, provided your rig is level, fire the reefer up. Stick your hand inside on the freeze plate in the freezer compartment to get a feel for just how cold it is. After an hour it should be noticeably colder—if not, you may well have a refrigerator problem to handle before your next expedition.
Intruder Alert: As you walk through the rig, check out cabinets for any signs of unwelcome visitors. Winter is a time that wee little rodents look for a dry place to hole up, and RVs are not an uncommon mouse hotel. If you evict them before they do much damage, you’ll thank yourself later.
Moisture Matters: In some winter climates—particularly in the Northwest—moisture infiltration can be a real menace. If your rig feels clammy or you find evidence of moisture, especially a mildew odor, take corrective action quickly. Dehumidification is important, and not necessarily expensive. RV supply stores carry crystal dehumidifier kits; several placed throughout the rig can help wipe out moisture. But be careful they don’t overflow. If not emptied on time, the water collection bowls will spill their contents where they stand. You might be wise to leave them standing in a plastic dish tub. Just leaving a crystal dehumidifier loose in a sink or tub can create problems of their own, as we’ve had the crystal substances stain metal.
Electric dehumidifiers are a more pricey option, but could be just what you need. Be sure to follow instructions carefully, especially with regard to drainage of collected water.
With a little effort, applied a few times throughout the slumber season, you can help maintain your rig. And if you find something is amiss, you’ll have time to get the problem resolved before spring breaks forth and your heart turns to the fancy of the road.
Learn about RV camping, RV travel, RV news and much more. This newsletter, now in its 15th year of continuous publication, is funded primarily through advertising and voluntary subscription contributions from our readers. Thank you!
Editor’s corner With Chuck Woodbury Chuck (at) RVtravel.com
I wrote this a few years ago, but I love the story so much I am posting it here again (updated a bit). I hope you enjoy it!
If you don’t have plans for June 3rd and 4th, then I suggest you head over to Fruita, Colorado. For one weekend every May or June the people of Fruita, with great appreciation of their history, stage the Mike the Headless Chicken Festival. Now, if you think this is a joke, let me assure you that I am absolutely serious.
Mike, a Wyandotte rooster, was born in Fruita in 1945. Nobody knows the actual date for a simple reason: Who cares when a chicken is born? He was owned by Lloyd and Clara Olsen, who envisioned the bird on their dinner plate one day. So when Mike, who was unnamed at this point, was sufficiently plump, Lloyd grabbed his axe and lopped off the fowl’s head. In most cases, a headless chicken will run in a circle a few times and then drop dead. But Mike just kept going, sort of like the Energizer Bunny except he was a chicken.
Mike is remembered in this statue in downtown Fruita.
History did not record what happened next, but it can be assumed that Lloyd either repeated the process on another fowl, or he and Clara ordered takeout Chinese.
The next morning, Lloyd found the headless chicken sleeping like a baby, his neck tucked under his wing just like any other chicken, except, of course, other chickens had heads. Lloyd felt sorry for Mike and decided to feed his neck with an eyedropper. A week later Mike was doing fine.
Lloyd was curious how a chicken could live without a head. So he packed up Mike and headed off 250 miles to the University of Utah to consult with scientists.
Mike sans head
They had never seen anything like Mike. After careful analysis, they determined that Lloyd’s axe blade had missed Mike’s jugular vein and a clot had prevented the bird from bleeding to death. Although most of Mike’s head was gone, most of his brain stem and one ear remained. Since most of a chicken’s reflex actions are controlled by the brain stem, Mike was able to stay healthy. In his 18-month life he grew to a strapping eight pounds.
NOT ONLY DID MIKE BECOME LARGE, but famous! Life and Time magazines both did stories. Not a stupid man, Lloyd decided to cash in on the publicity. So he and Mike went on tour. Audiences from coast to coast paid a quarter to marvel at the bird without a head.
Alas, all good things must end. For Mike and Lloyd, it came in a motel room in the Arizona desert. In the middle of the night, Mike began to choke. Unable to find an eyedropper to clear the bird’s open esophagus, Lloyd watched his famous bird expire.
Nowadays a statue in downtown Fruita honors Mike’s memory. And every May or June, the small town near Grand Junction celebrates its famous fowl at the Mike the Headless Chicken Festival. Among this year’s attractions: wing and peeps eating contests.
If you’re looking for something unique to do next month, you might want to wander on over. A good place to stay is in the beautiful campground in Colorado National Monument, an easy drive away.
There’s no contest or survey this week. But we’ll debut our first Spin and Win video contest next Saturday — the only game show just for RVers! The best way to ensure you get it immediately when it’s posted is to subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
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See this week’s greetings near the bottom of this newsletter.
Reduce air drag and boost fuel efficiency — Airtab® your RV! Just peel and stick Airtabs™ to the rear sides and the rear roof of your RV coach or trailer to create swirls of air that reduce aerodynamic drag, save fuel and improve stability. Airtabs™ dramatically reduce trailer ‘fish tailing’ and crosswinds pressure to RVs from passing trucks, while improving fuel efficiency 2% – 5%! Click on the video.
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Ford recalls F-150 pickups, Expeditions and more Ford has issued a recall for thousands of rigs popular among some RVers. A bum transmission software issue in 2012 Expeditions, and 2011 and 2012 F-150 pickups can force an unwanted downshift, creating the potential for a crash. Close to 202,000 rigs are included in the callback. And 81,000 Ford Explorers from 2014 and 2015 are on recall for suspension toe links that could fracture. Read more.
Reader RVs
What RV do you drive or tow?
Please send us a photo of your RV with a 150-200 word description of where and how you travel with it, and what you like (or don’t like) about it. (If you want, just send us your notes and we’ll put your story together for you.) If you have a photo of it in a scenic setting, that’s great. Be sure to include your name(s) and your hometown (unless you’re a full-timer). We’ll post them to RVtravel.com. Send to assistant editor Diane McGovern at Diane (at) RVtravel.com .
CLICK HERE to see this week’s issue of RV Travel Reader RVs.
Coming Next Saturday
This Week’s Contest NO CONTEST THIS ISSUE Last week’s winner: Gary Sandberg of Bellevue, Wash. His prize, a Camco folding step stool, is on its way
Our first Spin and Win Video Contest debuts next Saturday. Be sure to check it out. RV Travel editor Chuck Woodbury is your game show host, with Gail the super spinner at the prize wheel.
The Rocky Mount Fire in Shenandoah National Park is now 90 percent contained, thanks in part to recent rainfall. The fire burned more than 10,000 acres since April 16, and is the second largest wildfire in the park’s history. It is suspected to be human-caused.
RV manufacturers are continuing to see sad sales figures in Canada. Statistical Surveys Inc. says February shipments of towable RVs dropped 11 percent compared to February 2015. Travel trailers declined 6 percent; fifth wheels tanked 25 percent. Pop-ups slid a relatively light 2.5 percent, but nobody bought a park model in February.
Photo: Camping World Stadium, Kitch on wikimedia.org
Are you familiar with the Orlando Citrus Bowl? Not any more. The popular downtown Orlando venue is now officially Camping World Stadium. The big RV retailer of the same name has inked an agreement with Florida Citrus Sports to take over name sponsorship — and will also underwrite the preseason and after-Labor Day football games, now dubbed the Camping World Kickoff.
Bear season came early to the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee. Several areas between Oliver Hollow and Wilbur Dam are closed to recreational use until August 15 due to black bear activity. The Oliver Hollow area is a popular dispersed camping area.
City councilors in Lake Elsinore, Calif., have big plans for their municipal campground. The existing 160-site plot has no full RV hookups, but the city says it’s handing over $400,000 to a design firm to come up with plans for changes that will provide room for 236 RVs with full hookups in addition to other enhancements. The total estimated project costs $10 million. No estimated completion date has been floated.
Photo: North Rim by NPS
The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona) will swing the gates open and accommodate campers beginning May 15.
Paso Robles, Calif., has joined the large number of cities rolling out RV parking restrictions. Come August, RVs can only park on the city’s streets when equipped with a police-issued permit. That permit is valid for only 72 hours, and only one per month will be issued. Proponents of the ordinance say it’s a matter of safety.
Canada wants more Americans to visit. Canada’s 150th anniversary falls in 2017, and the government is dropping entry fees at all national parks in celebration. Beware, Lower 48ers: If park visitation by Canadians is any indicator, you’ll need to get your reservations in early to find a campsite. Bookings in 2016 are already up 20 percent for the same reservation period as last year.
One more for stupid pet tricks. No, not cats or dogs, but stupid people trying to pet a bison. On opening day at Yellowstone National Park (Wyo,) a visitor spotted a bison relaxing near a walkway — so she walked up to the beast and tried petting it. The bemused bison gave a warning shake of the head as she touched it, and the woman got away unharmed. Another visitor filmed the episode, and park rangers say if the woman can be identified she faces stiff fines.
When the Canadian Loonie (dollar) took a dive, so did bookings at Virginia Beach, Va., RV parks. Trying to make up for the disparity, the local visitor’s bureau is offering Canadians deep discounts on attractions. One area RV park employs 20 staffers who speak French — they’re obviously hoping the discount trick works.
RVs & Electric Bikes – the perfect match! An Electric Bike is the perfect, simplest and most affordable way of sorting all the ‘challenges’ of RV’ing. Get around camp effortlessly, visit the sites or town nearby without unhooking or simply enjoy a fun ride with fellow campers! Click here to discover our electric bikesand get $100 off, free shipping & returns, and 0% financing on any new EVELO using the code RVTRAVEL during checkout!
More News
Illinois camping opportunities have taken a hit. The state’s park managers say Horseshoe Lake State Park and Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area are “closed indefinitely.” Both areas have closed because of “termination” of electrical service; additionally, Horseshoe Lake has also lost garbage service. The state will offer refunds or alternatives to those holding reservations.
Campers who take their RVs to the Adirondack Balloon Festival, Queensbury, N.Y., will no longer get free parking; They will now be charged $10 for the weekend. This year’s festival runs September 22-25.
A $150,000 federal grant spells a dump station and shower house for the Big Hollow Recreation Area near Sperry, Iowa. The total bill of nearly $600,000 means more RVers will use the area, says a county official, noting many were turned off when they learned there was no place to dump tanks. The new improvements should be completed by next summer.
Photo: Caltrans.gov
After smacking into a guardrail on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge (Calif.), an RVer not only has a damaged motorhome, but will be cited for not being properly licensed. The driver hit the rail, ruptured a fuel tank and spilled diesel fuel. California Highway Patrol officials say the rig was a 43-footer, and the driver held only a Class C noncommercial license – which allowed him to drive a “housecar” up to 40 feet in length.
When Alberta, Canada, RV dealer Sunridge RV “pulled the pin” on operations in March, it left behind a trail of unhappy creditors to the tune of $10 million. One of them is Leah Elliot, who traded in a 2011 RV with the signed understanding that her $24,000 debt on the trade-in would be paid by Sunridge. It wasn’t, and now the bankruptcy trustee has told Elliot she can’t have the rig back — it had been sold to another customer before the business closed. Royal Canadian Mounties say they won’t investigate the case as a crime as it was a financial deal gone bad. It appears Elliot is up the creek.
Photo: public domain
Vermont officials warn: Moose on the move! Spring sees more moose/motor vehicle accidents than any other time of year – and 19 human souls have perished in such encounters since 1985.
Recent events at Lincoln, Nebraska’s, Wildwood Lake put heavy emphasis on the “wild” part. Police arrested 65-year-old Robert Miles after a canine confrontation turned ugly. The man showed up at the campground with four dogs, one of which bit a camper’s hand after it had gone after the victim’s dog. Two women tried to intervene, and Miles zapped them both with a stun gun. At that point he allegedly yanked down his trousers and publicly pooped. Miles was booked on a potpourri of charges.
Keep up with RV Industry news throughout the week at RVbusiness.com.
RV Quick Tips Keep all your manuals handy
Files of appliance and other RV manuals driving you batty? An inexpensive plastic “magazine file,” will keep all the booklets together. Now a couple of screws will hold it in place in a cabinet or closet.
Take it easy when dumping your RV’s tanks
Dumping tanks? Don’t “slam open” the dump valve – ease it open, and make sure the hose doesn’t horse loose from the dump station port. It could save you a real mess!
Simple way to fill your coach battery cells
Are your coach batteries difficult to reach to fill the cells? Head off to the drug store and pick up a water bottle with an “enema” hose and fitting. Fill the water bottle with distilled water, hook up the hose with the shut off clip. Now lead the “business end” of the hose to each cell and use the shut-off to open/close the fill-up flow.
Light up your RV with Boogey Lights! RV accent lighting is all the rage! Just look around the RV park! Enter Boogey Lights®! These robust, super-bright, state-of-the-art LED lights with hi-tech controller technology represent the next generation in LED lighting for RVs. The AWNING & UNDER-GLOW LIGHT KITS are specifically designed to withstand harsh operating environments. Don’t waste your money on junk! Get Boogey Lights! You can even control them with your Smart Phone! Learn more or click the video for a demonstration.
How to get better mileage in your Class A motorhome
While responding to an RV forum question on tire performance for Class A-size tires (22.5 inches), RV tire expert Roger Marble found a potentially very useful website from the Environmental Protection Agency which identifies tires that can provide better fuel economy than tires not on the list. Learn more.
Better cooking on your propane stove
Rich “The Wanderman” prefers cooking in his RV compared to in his “sticks and bricks” house, and explains why in this article. He explores the advantages and disadvantages between cooking with gas/propane or electricity. Which side are you on? Read more.
Do you know your RV smells?
RVs have their own peculiar smells — some good, some not so good. In this article, Russ and Tiña De Maris explain what types of smells you can ignore (or enjoy) and what types you should pay careful attention to. Read more.
Five ways to unintentionally ruin your RV Certified RV technician Chris Dougherty explains the top five ways he has seen through the years how RVers have unintentionally ruined their RVs. These can be avoided simply by paying attention to your unit and taking care of it. Find out how here.
The last roof your RV will ever need. Guaranteed!
“RV Armor took care of our problems and did our roof replacement while we stayed in our RV. Their service gave us great value savings and came with a lifetime, unconditional, parts and labor warranty, which is also transferable.” —Happy customer Don Fredericks. Financing available! RV Armor: The Ultimate RV Roof.
In search of the right BBQ grill
Greg Illes is a BBQ fan and is captivated by BBQ grills, especially when RVing. He loves that charred, smoky steak or drumstick hot off the grill. So, for many years he shopped and researched, bought and owned an array of portable BBQ grills to accompany his many RV excursions. Find out what’s making him a happy griller these days.
Plugged RV sewer holding tank: What to do
Gary Bunzer, the RV Doctor, explains the options in fixing a plugged up RV sewer holding tank in this short video.
New RVer asks: Just what does a “grade” sign mean?
Get out of the flat country and hit the hills, and sooner or later you’ll find a sign warning of a “steep grade,” often associated with a percentage number. Road grades seem mysterious at first, but really are simple. Learn more.
This week in history Week of April 30-May 6 Compiled by Dell Bert
1931 Empire State Building dedicated.
1933 Willie Nelson is born.
1937 Hindenburg explodes in New Jersey.
1940 John Steinbeck wins a Pulitzer for “The Grapes of Wrath.”
1945 Adolf Hitler commits suicide.
1961 Alan Shepard is the first American in space.
2011 Osama bin Laden is killed by U.S. Forces.
The New TireTraker™ TT-500 with a Lifetime Warranty The new TireTraker™ TT-500 is the most innovative & user friendly TPMS on the market with an unprecedented “Lifetime Warranty”, the only TPMS company in the industry to do so. The TT-500 features a larger, easier to read display, continuous pressure & temperature monitoring, automatic update, & monitoring up to 22 tires on your motorhome, trailer & tow vehicle from 0-232 psi ! Seven day per week sales & technical support & over 12 years of experience. List price (4 tires) $389. Our price only $289. SAVE $100! (Additional Sensors $35 each). Learn more or order. Read testimonials.
RV Clubs Here are a couple of RV clubs from our extensive directory which you may be interested in:
Escapees RV Club.
Escapees’ mission is to provide a “total support network for RVers,” including discounts at camping destinations, mail forwarding, Escapades, short-term parking at Escapees parks and much more. More than 32,000 member-families, and more than 50 individual chapters.
Forest River Owners’ Group.
“The Forest River Owners’ Group, or FROG, is made up of over 50,000 Forest River and affiliated brand RV owners from all across the United States and Canada, dedicated to having fun and enjoying the RV lifestyle.”
RV Parts and Accessories
Give Dyers a try on your next purchase of RV parts or accessories. Large selection, great service, low prices and fast shipping. Visit our website.
Bumper sticker of the week
If you’re following me, we’re both lost.
Funny/clever business slogan
“A great place to take a leak,” Acme Radiator, Bandon, Oregon
Have you seen a funny bumper sticker or business slogan? Send it to Diane(at)RVtravel.com
Trunk Organizer Keep your car, SUV or RV organized with this handy organizer. Multiple compartments allow you to separate food, drinks, sports objects, tools, gadgets and work-related stuff, all stored in the same trunk yet separated. Four mesh pockets allow you to see through and easily access the frequently needed objects by making them quick to find. Folds flat to only a few inches, occupying very little space. Learn more or order.
This week’s secret phrase: Judge Bob ruled that Bert’s goat, Crabbynapkin, ate the Honda Civic.
Upcoming RV Shows
See the recently updated list of upcoming RV shows for 2016.
Websites of the Week
We like these websites. Check ’em out. More next week.
Locate services at Interstate exits The 2016 Next Exit is the most complete USA Interstate highway exit directory ever published for every exit of major and most minor routes. Find what’s located at upcoming exits on your route — gas, food, lodging, camping, shopping, hospitals, Wal-Marts and much more. A best-seller year after year. Learn more or order.
Good reading from RV123.com
• Horse Thief Lake Campground
• Featured App: Watch ESPN
• Lime Chicken Soft Tacos
Help stabilize and keep your RV steps safe The RV Save-A-Step Brace is designed to be placed under RV entry steps for safety. It stabilizes the RV steps and helps keep the coach from rocking — preventing sag and wear. The brace is made of heavy-gauge steel with a 3/4″ solid metal screw thread, 1000-pound load rating and 7-5/8″ to 14″ adjustment range. Learn more or order at Amazon.com.
Ask the RV Shrink Concerns of soon-to-be new RVers
Dear RV Shrink: We are close to making a buying decision on a new motorhome. We have studied them to death. It’s a very expensive step, and I want to make sure we do it right the first time. I have read your comments about making sure the thing fits our needs, and that we both agree on the floor plan and options. Before we make the jump, can you give us anymore input? We are extremely nervous. Any help would be greatly appreciated. —Anxious buyer in Boston
Temperature gun is ‘essential equipment’ for many RVers! Just aim this non-contact IR temperature gun to measure the temperature of your refrigerator, tires, A/C output, or, heck, even your oven (and the list goes on). It turns on and begins reading the temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit with one press of the trigger. A laser light aids in aiming, and can be turned on or off. Many RVers consider this essential equipment. Learn more or order at a huge discount.
RV Tech Tips from Mark Polk Preventive maintenance Before you take your next RV trip set some time aside to perform some simple preventive maintenance. It could be the difference between a safe and enjoyable trip and a costly, disastrous one. How does the old saying go: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Preventive maintenance is maintenance you perform on your RV:
A. Based on intervals such as time or mileage.
B. Due to component, system or mechanical failure.
C. Before a problem exists.
Mark Polk is the owner of RV Education 101, the premiere source of educational DVDs about buying, maintaining and using an RV. Learn more.
Visit our YouTube Channel. More than 500 great videos about RVing!
Latest fuel prices Here are the latest U.S. average prices per gallon of gasoline and diesel fuel: Regular unleaded gasoline: $2.16 (on Apr. 25) Change from week before: Up 2 cents; Change from year before: Down 41 cents Diesel: $2.20 (on Apr. 25) Change from week before: Up 3 cents; Change from year before: Down 61 cents
Headed to Alaska? You need the 2016 Milepost This is THE mile-by-mile guidebook for RV or auto travelers headed to Alaska, the Yukon Territory, British Columbia, Alberta and the Northwest Territories. First published in 1949 as a guide about traveling along the Alaska Highway, today’s Milepost includes more than 600 pictures and more than 100 maps, and details every place travelers might eat, sleep or pull off the road for scenic viewing. Learn more or order.
RV Travel Reader Pets
Do you travel with a pet? We’d love to introduce your pet(s) to fellow readers. Here’s what we need: a photo or two of Fido or Boots (or you with your pet) and a 150-200 word description of your furry friend(s) — name, breed, age, how long you have traveled together, what makes them special? Go ahead and brag about them if you wish! Do you have any tips for other RVing pet lovers about traveling with pets that you’ve learned along the way? Don’t forget to give us your name(s) and hometown. Send to Diane(at)RVtravel.com .
Click here to see last week’s issue of RV Travel Reader Pets.
RV Stove Top Cover — Convert your RV’s stove top to a temporary food prep area The Universal Fit Stove Top Cover provides extra counter space in your RV as well as protecting and hiding the burners when the stove isn’t in use. The rattle-free design is compatible with 3 or 4 burner stoves and will enhance and complement your RV or marine kitchen décor. Cover is made of durable 20-gauge steel with a powder-coated black finish. Learn more or order.
The RV Kitchen with Janet Groene
Blintz Breakfast Blintz breakfast blitz.
The creamy taste of cottage cheese in an eggy crepe, mounded with strawberry jam, is one of the great treats in Jewish cuisine. Here is a shortcut version just right for RV cooking (but not suitable for Jews during the Feast of Unleavened Bread). Get the recipe.
Protect your RV’s slideout with this rubber seal lubricant If you don’t take care of your slideout you’re asking for problems including dangerous, costly water damage. This rubber seal lubricant from Thetford prevents fading, cracking and deterioration. It cleans, conditions and shines, keeping seals flexible and protected from sunlight destruction. It is also useful on door seals and window seals. It’s a mineral oil product and also acts as a lubricant. Learn more or order.
Turning back the clock
RV television commercials from years past!
Take a trip back in time with this TV commercial from years ago — when shag carpet was the big deal, when the word “slideout” meant something you did getting out of the dinette and when a 30-amp hookup was science fiction.
In this 30-second commercial from 1971, you get to see Barbie’s cool new motorhome.
Check out that pop-out tent on the side — not as cool as our present day slideouts, but not bad for 45 years ago!
Click the video to play it.
Endorsed by Roger Marble of RVtireSafety.com! An excellent tire pressure gauge The Accutire MS-4021B digital tire pressure gauge has an easy-to-read LCD display that provides pressure readings from 5-150 PSI. It’s ergonomically designed with an angled head and a rubber-coated easy-grip handle. If you forget to turn off the gauge, don’t worry, it will automatically shut off. The included lithium battery never needs to be recharged or replaced. And all this for less than $13! Learn more or order.
App of the Week
Every traveler needs a good weather app, or two
When traveling by RV, you need to know the weather to decide many things: when to stop driving for the day – if rainstorms are coming, whether to cook out or go out, whether to plan a week or just overnight at a given location, or when to start looking for a storm shelter! Chris Guld, of Geeks on Tour, describes some great smartphone weather apps here.
LEARN ABOUT SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS
… every Sunday on a live webcast from Geeks On Tour. This week learn all about how to back up your phone; and they will discuss an App of the Week. Watch live or archives of past programs.
The special offer for RV Travel readers is back! Become a member of Geeks on Tour and get a 20% discount. Click here.
Batteries last a long time! Motion detection nightlights can last a year on a set of batteries When you need a nightlight when without hookups, these are great: they light only when they sense motion, shutting off after 30 seconds of no movement. They use no wires and install in less than 5 minutes. Use outdoors, too. Lights come in a 3-pack. Battery-powered nightlights that stay on full time are power hogs and don’t last long. These can last up to a year! Watch the short video for a demonstration or learn more (or order) at Amazon.com at a great price.
Ask the RV Doctor The RV Doctor, Gary Bunzer, answers your questions
Adding RV batteries
Dear Gary,
I just recently purchased a used Class A Newmar coach. Where do I find out what rating of battery needs to be used for replacement? The specific gravity on the existing batteries are low and after charging, is not coming up. The batteries are weak after only 8 hours of using a very light load. They are five years old. I have no clue as to what amp-hour I should be using. —Rich W., Virginia Beach, Va.
May be required by law in some states! Essential for hooking up to a sewer Many states these days do not allow an RVer to simply insert a sewer hose into an RV park sewer drain without it being sealed. This soft sewer sponge ring is the answer. Simply insert your sewer hose into the sponge ring, twist it to tighten, and then insert the sponge ring into the sewer hookup for a tight seal. Learn more or order.
Boondocking tips with Bob Difley
Save propane with this water heating tip
Instead of leaving your water heater on using up propane, turn it on about 10 minutes before using and then turn it off. There will still be enough hot to warm water in the tank for most of the day for washing hands, etc. You will save propane and you won’t be annoyed by the heater turning on and off all night trying to keep the water hot.
Easily brew a single cup of coffee This is great for RVers! Brew a single cup of coffee without the high cost of an expensive coffee maker with the MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker! Just fill reservoir with hot water from tea kettle, or heat water in a microwave. Assemble, place K-Cup pack in base, attach the water reservoir and pump. Watch the video for a short demonstration or learn more or order at a big discount.
Gadgets and Gizmos
Smart Car Charger charges your phone and tablet, and locates your car
The ZUS Smart Car Finder and USB Car Charger charges two devices at the same time and twice as fast as a normal car charger. And if you lose you car, it’ll lead you back to it. Learn more.
Desolenator enables water independence — just add sun There are various methods of creating pure, drinkable water, but all are expensive and often not very environmentally friendly. But now this team of developers at Desolenator says they can produce the lowest cost per liter of water compared to any other available system with their mobile desalinator that runs purely on energy from the sun. And other than being able to provide clean water for billions of people around the world without pure water, this simple system is also an appealing solution for RVers who like to camp off the grid. Read more.
Perfect place to store your lawn chairs Here’s a great use of space for storing your lawn chairs while you’re rolling down the highway — just strap ‘em right onto your RV’s ladder. It’s quick, easy, and the chairs will be secure and out of the way. When you need them, they’re quick and easy to get to. Learn more.
Joke of the week
Recreational Vehicles: If they’re trying to get away from it all, why are they taking it all with them? From the game Apples to Apples. Thanks, Jody!
Which state is best for a full-time home base? The full-time lifestyle gives you the unique opportunity to choose any state to call “home.” But there are many factors to consider; a state with the lowest state income tax is not always the best option. This guide provides a wealth of valuable information to help you select the state where you will benefit the most. Learn more or order.
Upcoming RV Shows
• Puyallup RV Show, Today through Sunday, Puyallup, WA Visit website
Complete list of upcoming shows in the USA and Canada. Click here.
Keep rodents out of your RV!
The overwhelmingly positive reviews on this make it a best bet for keeping your RV rodent-free. This is the only plant-based rodent repellent registered for inside use by the EPA. It effectively repels rodents up to 100 days with a “woodsy” scent that’s pleasant to humans but offensive to rodents. It’s safe around kids and pets so no safety warning is required. 98% biodegradable. Tested and endorsed by the Good Sam Club. Learn more or order.
Random RV Thought Don’t be afraid of spoiling the food in your RV refrigerator when you are driving. If the fridge is cold before you leave it will stay plenty cold all day long even when turned off. Just turn it back on when you get to your destination.
Very handy! Wall mount grocery bag dispenser Mount this grocery bag dispenser on a wall or inside a shelf in your home or RV for convenient, easy access. Stores 30 plastic grocery bags. Simply tuck them into the top opening and pull them out from the wide dispensing area on the front of the holder. Durable stainless steel construction. Screws and double-sided tape included. Watch the video for a short demonstration or learn more or order at a big discount.
Trivia
A key chain with several keys lost by C. Dornqwast in the Wolf River of Wisconsin was recovered a year later inside a six-pound walleye pike!
Liquefy solid wastes in sewer holding tanks Happy Campers Treatment liquefies solid waste and household tissue. It’s a natural formula that’s environmentally friendly and biodegradable, with no formaldehyde or harsh chemicals. Basically, the good bacteria overtakes the bad bacteria to eliminate odor and accelerate the natural decomposition of waste. Because it is totally organic and odor free, you won’t be embarrassed by bad odors inside or when you dump. Learn more or order at Amazon.com.
Worth Pondering
“I think men who have a pierced ear are better prepared for marriage. They’ve experienced pain and bought jewelry.” —Rita Rudner
Make your toad or trailer happy! If your toad or trailer could talk it would say, “Please get me a license frame like this!” So, to make that vehicle very happy you should probably go ahead and get this very cool license plate frame. Shipping is free, so there is hardly any reason not to order one, or even two. Learn more or order.
Readers’ Birthday and Anniversary Greetings
Happy Birthday!
•April 30: To Dana from Sylvia. Happy Birthday, my love, and many more!
•May 6: To Mary Patricia from Clark. Happy birthday to a really special girl!!! Luv, Clark Happy (belated) Birthday •April 25: To Diane from Dave. Happy Retirement and Birthday from your soul mate. Retired on the 22nd and Birthday on the 25th. Love ya, Dave
•April 27: To Marty from Peteski. Happy Birthday, Hon… I love ya mostest.
•April 28: To Steve from Fran. Happy Birthday to the best husband in the whole world. Thanks for making my fulltime and travel dreams come true! Next up, Alaska! Love you forever!
Happy Anniversary!
•May 1: To Nancy from Jim. Nan, Thanks for 23 years of fun and excitement! Love, Jim •May 4: To Paul and Ellen from Mike and Lauren. It has been How Many Years??? Happy Camping
•May 5: To Jim B from Karen B. Shoulda-been 1960, made it 1990. Still “rv-ing” – you, me, Barni (the pom) & Charlituna the cat.
•May 6: To Lois from Dennis. Happy Anniversary, Lois. 27 great years and many more to come. Bunches and Bunches! Let’s go camping! Happy (belated)Anniversary •April 20: To Princess from Ricker. Happy Anniversary, my love. Been a great 20 years and looking forward to many more.
RV Travel staff Editor and Publisher: Chuck Woodbury. Assistant editor: Diane McGovern. Contributing editor: Russ De Maris. Contributing writers: Greg Illes, Bob Difley, Richard Miller, Richard Mallery, Janet Groene, Roger Marble and Julianne Crane. Office manager: Jody Allcott.
ADVERTISE on RVtravel.com and/or in this newsletter. Contact Chuck Woodbury at Chuck(at)RVtravel.com.
About the RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury has explored America by RV for nearly three decades. In the ’90s he published the quirky travel newspaper Out West, and was an “on the road” writer for the New York Times Syndicate. His book, “The Best from Out West” is available at Amazon.com. Woodbury’s RVing adventures have been profiled on ABC News, CNN, NBC’s Today Show, and in People Magazine, USA Today and in hundreds of newspapers. Nowadays, he lives near Seattle, where he drinks massive amounts of coffee and travels often in his motorhome and sometimes by plane when vast expanses of saltwater would turn his RV into a leaky submarine. He is the host of the Better Business Bureau DVD “Buying a Recreational Vehicle,” the definitive guide to purchasing an RV the right way.
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we occasionally get something wrong. We’re just human! So don’t go spending $10,000 on something we said was good simply because we said so, or fixing something according to what we suggested (check with your own technician first). Maybe we made a mistake.Tips and/or comments in this newsletter are those of the authors and may not reflect the views of RVtravel.com or this newsletter.
Our offices are located at 610 5th Ave. S, Suite F, Edmonds, WA 98020.
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Send a photo of your RV and a 150 to 200 word description of it, how and where you use it, and what you like or don’t like about it, to Diane(at)RVtravel.com. Be sure to include your name(s) and hometown, or if you’re a full-timer. (These are posted in the order received.)
The RVs of RVtravel.com readers and how they use them
Issue 53; Posted Apr. 30, 2016
From Carl and Pam Houston, Buena Park, California
We are owners of a 1998 Country Coach Magna (38 feet) and a Ford Explorer equipped with tow bar, air brakes, and a drive shaft disconnect. Our diesel mileage varies between 9.2 and 9.9, depending on conditions. We have owned MHs for 41 years, from a VW van, 18-foot Mobile Traveler, 27-foot Sun Sport, 29-foot Tioga, and now a big diesel.
We enjoy traveling all over the United States of America, including Alaska (2009 and 2014), and Canada. Fortunately for us, we know family and/or friends in 40 states.
Carl drives and maintains the “Big Boy,” as Pam puts it, and Pam is the stewardess/waitress and occasionally likes to contradict the GPS that we call “Maggie.” We can honestly (almost) say that we have not ever been lost, but we have done a whole lot of additional sightseeing.
Pam’s turn this year. We’ll cruise across the Atlantic and tour Europe with family. Next year, God willing, it’s Alaska again. Carl wants to do the Alaska Marine Highway after touring Vancouver Island. Of course halibut and salmon will be on the menu, along with creating more traveling friends as we journey.
From Gary and Christine Byler, Full-timers
This is our 2012 Arctic Fox 30U and Ford 350 Super Duty. We full-time and have volunteered for the U.S. National Forest Service, U.S. National Park Service and USAF FamCamps. At present we are in the Ocala National Forest, Fla., at the Doe Lake Group Recreation Campground. We are planning on trading in our 30U for an Arctic Fox 32-5M this summer. Anyone that gets the U will get a fine, outstanding unit. We are doing this only to go bigger. We wouldn’t live in anything but an Arctic Fox.
We believe volunteering is the perfect lifestyle. People spend hundreds or thousands of dollars to visit the places we wake up every morning — places like Devils Tower, N.M.; Canyon de Chelly N.M.; Cape Perpetua, Ore., in the Siuslaw National Forest; Stub Creek, Colo., in the Roosevelt National Forest; Joshua NP, Calif.; Nellis Air Force Base, Las Vegas, Nev.; and, of course, the Ocala National Forest, Fla.
From Barry Zavah and Alicia Trillo, Alpine, Texas
We are full-timers from Alpine, Texas, traveling three to five months annually, including extended family stays in Buffalo, New York, and Dallas, Texas. We have a 2001 Forest River Sunseeker with 2004 Toyota RAV4. The picture was taken at Canyonlands National Park, Needles District, in 2014.
In 2014 we traveled from Pagosa Springs, Colo., (saw Durango and Creede); to Bluff, Utah, for Valley of the Gods, Monument Valley; Canyonlands NP (Needles District}; Moab, Utah, for Arches NP and Canyonlands NP (Island in the Sky District) and more; Jackson, Wyo., for Grand Tetons NP; West Yellowstone, Mont., for Yellowstone NP; St. Mary’s, Mont., for Glacier NP/Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park in Alberta, Canada; and Asheville N.C.
In 2015 we visited Glen Canyon Recreation Area, Painted Desert NP; Bryce Canyon NP; Boise, Idaho (new couch); Golden Spike, Idaho; McMinnville and Port Garibaldi in Oregon (visited Tillamook Cheese Factory); Gig Harbor off Puget Sound, Port Angeles, Washington (scenic drive along Olympic NP), Vancouver Island, B.C., to Port Hardy for ferry to Prince Rupert, then across to Valemount, B.C.; Jasper and Banff NPs and Lake Louise along the Icefield Parkway; North Dakota for Theodore Roosevelt NP (North and South units); St. Ignace, Mich., for Mackinaw (Mackinac) Island and drive to Sault Ste. Marie; Dakota County, Northfield, Minn. — including 9,453 RV and many RAV4 miles more before returning home.
Whew! Lesson learned! “Fewer places/longer times” in 2016.
FORD MOTOR COMPANY ISSUES THREE SAFETY RECALLS AND TWO SAFETY COMPLIANCE RECALLS IN NORTH AMERICA
DEARBORN, Mich. (April 27, 2016) – Ford Motor Company is issuing three safety recalls and two safety compliance recalls in North America. Details are as follows:
Ford issues safety recall and customer satisfaction program for certain 2011-2012 Ford F-150, and 2012 Ford Expedition, Ford Mustang and Lincoln Navigator vehicles in North America to update powertrain control module software and inspect for certain diagnostic trouble codes
Ford is issuing a safety recall for approximately 202,000 2011-2012 Ford F-150, and 2012 Ford Expedition, Ford Mustang and Lincoln Navigator vehicles for a potential issue with the output speed sensor on the vehicle’s transmission lead frame. Under certain conditions, the transmission controls could force a temporary downshift into first gear. Depending on the speed of the vehicle at the time of the downshift, the driver could experience an abrupt speed reduction that could cause the rear tires to slide or lock up. This condition could result in loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford is aware of three reports of accidents and no injuries related to this condition.
Affected vehicles are equipped with a 6R80 transmission and include certain 2011-2012 Ford F-150 vehicles built at Dearborn Truck Plant and Kansas City Assembly Plant, Aug. 19, 2011 through March 9, 2012; 2012 Ford Expedition vehicles built at Kentucky Truck Plant, Aug. 19, 2011 through Dec. 19, 2011; Ford Mustang vehicles built at Flat Rock Assembly Plant, Aug. 19, 2011 through Feb. 21, 2012; and Lincoln Navigator vehicles built at Kentucky Truck Plant, Aug. 19, 2011 through Dec. 17, 2011. There are 201,900 vehicles affected, including 184,000 in the United States and federalized territories and 17,900 in Canada.
Dealers will inspect the powertrain control module for diagnostic trouble codes tied to the issue. If no related diagnostic trouble codes are present, dealers will update the powertrain control module software, which will eliminate the downshift into first gear if an OSS fault occurs. Additionally, as part of the corresponding customer satisfaction program, Ford will provide a one-time replacement of the lead frame at no charge within 10 years or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date.
If related diagnostic trouble codes are present, dealers will update the powertrain control module software and replace the lead frame at no cost to the customer.
Ford issues safety recall for certain 2014-2015 Ford Explorer and Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles to replace rear suspension toe links
Ford is issuing a safety recall for approximately 81,000 2014-2015 Ford Explorer and Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles to replace rear suspension toe links. In certain vehicles, it is possible that the left and right rear suspension toe links could fracture due to poor weld quality. This condition could result in rear suspension noise, difficulty steering or loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford is aware of one accident and one injury related to this issue.
Affected vehicles include certain 2014-2015 Ford Explorer vehicles built at Chicago Assembly Plant, Jan. 17, 2014 through May 31, 2014 and Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles built at Chicago Assembly Plant, Jan. 21, 2014 through May 13, 2014. There are 81,036 vehicles affected by the issue, including 75,364 in the United States and federalized territories, 4,615 in Canada and 1,057 in Mexico.
Dealers will replace the left and right rear suspension toe links and align the rear suspension at no cost to the customer.
Ford issues safety recall for certain 2016 Ford F-Series Super Duty vehicles to inspect and replace tires
Ford is issuing a safety recall for approximately 2,600 2016 Ford F-Series Super Duty vehicles to inspect and replace tires as needed. In certain vehicles, tires could have been damaged from a conveyor during assembly. In some cases, the sidewall damage could cause a rupture during use, resulting in rapid air loss and increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford is not aware of any accidents, injuries or fires related to this condition.
Affected vehicles include certain 2016 Ford F-Series Super Duty vehicles built at Kentucky Truck Plant, April 5, 2016 through April 10, 2016. There are 2,596 vehicles affected by this issue, including 2,288 in the United States and federalized territories, 271 in Canada and 37 in Mexico.
Dealers will inspect the tires for inboard sidewall damage and replace as needed at no cost to the customer.
Ford issues safety compliance recall for certain 2007-2012 Ford Flex, Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS and Mercury Sable vehicles to replace driver airbag module
Ford is issuing a safety compliance recall for approximately 200 2007-2012 Ford Flex, Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS and Mercury Sable vehicles to replace the driver airbag module. In certain vehicles, the chemical enhancer for the second-stage airbag deployment could be missing from the module, which may increase the risk of an injury in a crash that requires second-stage deployment. This condition does not affect primary-stage airbag deployment. This issue is unrelated to the Takata airbag inflator safety recall.
Ford is not aware of any accidents, injuries or fires related to this condition.
Affected vehicles include 199 vehicles in North America, built at Chicago Assembly Plant and Oakville Assembly, Dec. 13, 2007 through Oct. 6, 2011.
Dealers will replace the driver airbag module at no cost to the customer.
Ford issues safety compliance recall for certain 2016 Ford Fusion vehicles to replace driver seat track assembly
Ford is issuing a safety compliance recall for approximately 40 2016 Ford Fusion vehicles to replace the driver seat track assembly. In certain vehicles, the seat mounting bracket attachment to the seat track rail may have been improperly welded, resulting in reduced seat track strength.
Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this issue.
Affected vehicles include 39 vehicles in the United States, built at Hermosillo Assembly Plant, March 10, 2016 through March 16, 2016.
Dealers will replace the driver seat track assembly at no cost to the customer.
With summer and increased outdoor activities fast approaching … there is now a way to protect your pooches from possible cancer-causing UV radiation, dangerous insect bites and grass burs. Hurtta’s new Sun & Bug Blocker suit covers a dog’s legs, body and neck with a thin but strong breathable material that is impregnated with Clariant Sanitized® finishing.
This breakthrough finishing repels and helps protect dogs from harmful UV rays, mosquito, horsefly and tick bites. The Sun & Bug Blocker suit is constructed from a lightweight and flexible material that makes it easy to put on and allows the dog unrestricted freedom of movement.
So whether it’s a hike through the woods, a day at the beach or a boating trip on the lake there are certain precautions that pet owners need to take to protect their dogs from sunburn, mosquitoes, tick bites and grass burs. Hurtta’s new Sun & Bug Blocker Suit is the natural solution and is available on Amazon.
You can find Bob Difley’s RVing ebooks onAmazon Kindle.
WASHINGTON: Here is our monthly summary of RV recalls for April 2016 and related equipment we feel are of interest to our readers. This information has been gleaned from the U.S. National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. This is NOT a complete list of all vehicles and related equipment recalled.
UNITED STATES RECALLS
RECREATION VEHICLES
Cruiser RV (Cruiser) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Stryker travel trailers, models ST3316, STG3112 and STG3212, manufactured December 11, 2015, to March 10, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with safety chains on the A-frame that are rated for 11,700 lbs instead of being rated equal to, or greater than, the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the travel trailer. In the event the main trailer connection fails, the weight of the trailer can break the safety chains if the chains are not strong enough, allowing the trailer to separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Cruiser will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing safety chains with chains that have a 16,200 lb rating, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin by the end of April 2016. Owners may contact Cruiser customer service at 1-260-562-3500.
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain model year 2016 Cherokee Grey Wolf recreational trailers manufactured from March 23, 2015, through March 9, 2016. The Federal Placard incorrectly indicates the tire and rim size as ST205/75R15/C Tire(s) with 15X5.0JJ rims. However, the trailer is equipped with ST205/75R14/C Tire(s) with 14X5.5JJ rims. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, “Tire Selection and Rims.” Incorrect information on the Federal Placard may lead to the operator overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a tire blowout and the possibility of a crash. Forest River will notify owners and will send them a corrected Federal Placard, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on, or about, May 16, 2016. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-541-995-3447 extension 4013. Forest River’s recall number for this campaign is 64-03112016-0147.
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Puma recreational trailers, models T12RBC, T15UDC, T17QBC, and T18FBC, manufactured from January 1, 2013, through March 1, 2016. When the trailer hits a bump, the tire(s) may contact the floor or wheel well and result in tire damage. A damaged tire could deflate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will install a lift kit to add additional clearance to the vehicles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on, or about, May 27, 2016. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-642-0607. Forest River’s recall number for this campaign is 420-06092015-0050SA.
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Georgetown recreational vehicles, model GTA369XLF, manufactured from December 8, 2014, through March 22, 2016. A vented window was installed in the rear wall of the vehicle instead of a secondary egress window. Without a secondary egress window, occupants may be trapped in the event of an emergency, increasing the risk of injury or death. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will remove the vented window and install an egress window, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on, or about, May 27, 2016. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-206-7600. Forest River’s number for this recall is 15-03232016-0151.
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain model year 2008-2016 Puma recreational trailers and toy haulers, models PT20RDC, PT21FBC, PT22RBC, PT26RLC, PT26FBSC, PT21TUC, PT25FBC, PT22RB, PTH21TFU, PTH24THS, PTH25TFS, PTH27SBU, PTH27RLSS, PTH25TFQ, and PTH21TFB, manufactured from June 25, 2007, through March 23, 2016. When the trailer hits a bump, the tire(s) may contact the floor or wheel well and result in tire damage. A damaged tire could deflate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will install a lift kit to add additional clearance to the vehicles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on, or about, May 27, 2016. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-642-0607. Forest River’s recall number for this campaign is 420-06092015-0050.
Heartland Recreational Vehicles, LLC (Heartland) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Torque travel trailers, models T31 and T32, manufactured December 15, 2015, to March 16, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with safety chains on the A-frame that are rated for 11,700 lbs instead of being rated equal to, or greater than, the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the travel trailer In the event the main trailer connection fails, the weight of the trailer can break the safety chains if the chains are not strong enough, allowing the trailer to separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Heartland will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing safety chains with chains that have a 16,200 pound rating, free of charge. The recall is scheduled to begin by the end of April 2016. Owners may contact Heartland customer service at 1-877-262-8032 or by email at parts@heartlandrvs.com.
Jayco, Inc. (Jayco) is recalling certain model year 2016 Octane travel trailers, model 222(V2), manufactured March 23, 2016, to March 30, 2016. The turn signal wires on the affected trailers may be crossed, activating the opposite turn signal of the one intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Assoc. Equipment.” Crossed turn signal wires may confuse other drivers by incorrectly indicating the intended direction and thereby increasing the risk of a crash. Jayco will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and repair the wiring, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 30, 2016. Owners may contact Jayco customer service at 1-800-283-8267. Jayco’s number for this recall is 9901293.
Jayco, Inc. (Jayco) is recalling certain model year 2016 White Hawk travel trailers, model 25BHS, manufactured on March 3, 2016. The affected trailers were incorrectly built on axles rated for 3000 lbs., when they should have been built with axles that have a capacity of 3500 lbs. If the trailer is loaded to the capacity listed on the label, trailer handling may be affected, increasing the risk of a crash. All of the affected trailers have been quarantined at Jayco dealers prior to their sale and thus no owner notification letters will be sent. Dealers will install the correct axles, free of charge. Owners may contact Jayco customer service at 1-800-283-8267. Jayco’s number for this recall is 9901291.
Lakota Corporation (Lakota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Bighorn and Charger recreational vehicles manufactured from March 5, 2015, through March 20, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the screws that attach the expanding room to the sliding mechanism cable may fail allowing the room to extend unintentionally while the vehicle is in motion. If the room extends while vehicle is in motion, there is an increased risk of a crash. Lakota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the bolts, free of charge. The recall began on April 8, 2016. Owners may contact Lakota customer service at 1-574-848-1636.
Starcraft RV (Starcraft) is recalling certain model year 2016 Launch Ultra Lite trailers, model 31BHT, manufactured June 23, 2015, to September 29, 2015. The entry steps may have been installed without using the proper bolts, possibly resulting in the steps loosening or separating from the trailer. Loose steps or steps that drop when weight is applied may cause the user to fall, increasing their risk of injury. Starcraft will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the step installation, correcting the mounting as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 29, 2016. Owners may contact Starcraft customer service at 1-800-945-4787. Starcraft’s number for this recall is 9902292.
Winnebago Towable (Winnebago) is recalling certain model year 2016 Winnie Drop recreational trailers manufactured from September 10, 2015, through March 8, 2016. The refrigerator compartment may not be completely sealed and thus may allow carbon monoxide to enter the main cabin. If carbon monoxide were to enter the main cabin, it can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, or possible death. The remedy for this recall is still under development. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Winnebago customer service at 1-574-825-5250.
OTHER VEHICLES
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles manufactured December 9, 2015, to January 14, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the left front brake caliper may crack due to being made from an incorrect material. A cracked brake caliper may lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front left brake caliper and depending on its casting date, replace it, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler’s number for this recall is S16.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured January 22, 2015, to September 13, 2015. Contamination on the Electric Power Steering (EPS) control circuit board may cause a short and result in the loss of power steering assist. If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPS unit, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler’s number for this recall is S19.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 F-650 and F-750 trucks manufactured January 28, 2015, to November 30, 2015. The clip that connects the hand operated parking brake actuator cable to the intermediate parking brake cable may fail. If the parking brake cable connector clip fails, the vehicle may unexpectedly roll, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the parking brake cable connector clip, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 16, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 16S15.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Transit vehicles manufactured March 12, 2014, to March 18, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the side curtain air bag may not deploy with the proper trajectory due to being folded and packaged incorrectly. A side curtain air bag that does not deploy as intended may increase the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and re-orient the side curtain air bag assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on May 16, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 16S13.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured November 25, 2013, to January 25, 2016, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured October 20, 2014, to January 28, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with 2.3L GTDI engines and engine block heaters. These engine block heaters have elements that may overheat while plugged in. Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine block heater, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical cord, as necessary. The recall is expected to begin May 16, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 16S14. Note: Owners should not use the engine block heater until the vehicle has been remedied.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 trucks manufactured January 29, 2013, to January 21, 2015. While entering the vehicle, the seat belt tensioner cable may be positioned such that the driver slides over it. This movement may result in the fatigue and separation of the cable. If the tensioner cable separates, the driver may not be properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury. GM will notify owners, and dealers will modify the vehicles to prevent the tensioner from being damaged. Any tensioner that has already been damaged will be replaced, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM’s number for this recall is 15822.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana incomplete vehicles equipped with a 159 inch wheel base manufactured August 2, 2013, to January 30, 2016. The affected vehicles were shipped to final stage manufacturers without a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 138, “Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems.” Without a TPMS, the driver would not be alerted if one or more tires became under inflated. Driving with under inflated tires increases the risk of a crash. GM will notify owners, and dealers will install the hardware and software necessary to equip the vehicles with a TPMS, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM’s number for this recall is 15819.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 Accord vehicles manufactured October 1, 2003, to August 17, 2007. The affected vehicles may have been assembled with an incorrect passenger frontal air bag module that does not comply with the advanced air bag requirements. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, “Occupant Crash Protection.” An air bag module does not meet the advanced air bag requirements can increase the risk of injury or death in the event of a crash. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the air bag module as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 5, 2016. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009. Honda’s number for this recall is JZ3
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2016 Hyundai Tucson vehicles manufactured May 26, 2015 to January 15, 2016 and equipped with an accessory trailer hitch harness either included with the accessory trailer hitch or sold as a service part. In the affected vehicles, when the vehicle’s engine is running and the brake lights are illuminated, if the turn signal is activated, the trailer turn signal lights will either turn off or remain continuously illuminated (not flash). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 108, ” Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.” Failure to illuminate the trailer’s turn signal lights would prevent the communication of the driver’s intent, increasing the risk of a crash. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 6, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9640. Hyundai’s number for this recall is 142.
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, to October 31, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) circuit board may be damaged and result in a loss of power steering assist. With a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a crash. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPS control unit, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 30, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9640. Hyundai’s number for this recall is 143.
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2016 Frontier V6 vehicles manufactured February 29, 2016, to March 7, 2016. The starter motor wire harness may have been installed in an incorrect position, allowing the starter harness terminal to contact the heat shield and result in an electrical short. An electrical short increases the risk of a fire. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and reposition the starter wire harness, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 13, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016 Murano vehicles manufactured December 17, 2015, to February 11, 2016, and 2016 Maxima vehicles manufactured November 25, 2015, to February 12, 2016 and equipped with an antilock braking system (ABS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC). The ABS actuator may have a damaged O-ring that may result in a lack of brake fluid pressure. Insufficient brake fluid pressure may lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the ABS actuator, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin by June 4, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 WRX vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 21, 2015, and Forester 2.0XT vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 20, 2015. The turbocharger air intake duct may crack and possibly result in an engine stall. An engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the turbocharger air intake duct, and replace it as necessary, free of charge, depending on the lot number found on the duct. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru’s number for this recall is WTA-62.
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toyota RAV4 vehicles manufactured October 30, 2015, to February 3, 2016, 2016 Lexus RX350 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2015, to February 8, 2016, and 2016 Lexus ES350 vehicles manufactured September 1, 2015, to February 29, 2016. These vehicles are equipped with an ABS actuator that may have a damaged O-ring which could result in improper brake fluid pressure control during ABS, Traction Control, or Stability Control activation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, “Electronic Stability Control Systems.” Insufficient brake fluid pressure may cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake actuator, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin June 5, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota’s number for this recall is G0I, GLC.
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toyota Sienna vehicles manufactured February 15, 2016, to February 19, 2016. In the affected vehicles, incorrect front seat belt height adjusters may have been installed. During a crash, this incorrect height adjuster may contact the B-pillar and tear or separate. Failure and detachment of seat belt height adjuster would result in the occupant not being properly restrained in a crash, increasing their risk of injury. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front seat belt height adjusters, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 30, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota’s number for this recall is G0H.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Passat vehicles equipped with TDI engines. Due to improperly assembled wire seals in a connector for an underbody sensor, water may enter and corrode the electrical connectors of the sensor, causing an electrical short. An electrical short can cause the electrical connectors of the sensor to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connector, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen’s number for this recall is 23T3.
TIRES AND OTHER EQUIPMENT
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain model year 2006-2012 Amera-Lite cargo trailers manufactured November 2, 2005, to July 21, 2011; 2007-2013 Cargo Mate cargo trailers manufactured December 1, 2006, to February 27, 2013; 2005-2016 Continental Cargo cargo trailers manufactured January 27, 2005, to November 11, 2015; and 2007-2012 US Cargo cargo trailers manufactured January 30, 2007, to July 12, 2011. The tire pressure specification for the 5.30″ x 12″ Load Range C Tire is listed as 50 PSI instead of the correct tire pressure specification of 80 PSI. As a result, the subject vehicles have incorrectly stated Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) on the Federal Placard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, “Certification.” Using the trailers to the loading specifications on the label while the tires are underinflated may result in sudden tire failure, increasing the risk of a crash. Forest River will notify owners and will provide Federal placard stickers with the correct PSI, GAWR, and GVWR, free of charge. The recall began on April 8, 2016. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-266-7539. Forest River’s number for this campaign is 51-02292016-0141.
Please note: This is only a list of recalls we feel may be of interest to the RVing community. There may be other recalls which may affect you — please make it a point to visit appropriate government sources for more information.
What is a recall?
When a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a car or item of motor vehicle equipment creates an unreasonable risk to safety or fails to meet minimum safety standards, the manufacturer is required to fix that car or equipment at no cost to the consumer. That can be done by repairing it, replacing it, offering a refund (for equipment) or, in rare cases, repurchasing the car.
What should I do if my vehicle is included in this recall?
If your vehicle is included in this recall, it is very important that you get it fixed as soon as possible given the potential danger to you and your passengers if it is not addressed. You should receive a separate letter in the mail from the vehicle manufacturer, notifying you of the recall and explaining when the remedy will be available, whom to contact to repair your vehicle or equipment, and to remind you that the repair will be done at no charge to you. If you believe your vehicle is included in the recall, but you do not receive a letter in the mail from the vehicle manufacturer, please call NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or contact your vehicle manufacturer or dealership.
Thank you for your attention to this important safety matter and for your commitment to helping save lives on America’s roadways.
This newsletter is copyright 2016 by RVtravel.com.
When traveling by RV, you need to know the weather to decide:
• When to stop driving for the day – if rainstorms are coming
• Whether to cook out, or go out!
• Whether to plan a week, or just overnight at a given location
• When to start looking for a storm shelter!
This is a great use for a smartphone. It knows where you are, and it communicates with weather services. There are lots of Apps for reporting the weather, and I’ve tried several. I like the apps that have a moving radar video. It shows how bad the weather is and how fast it’s moving. All the Apps I’ve tried have this feature.
Yahoo weather is attractive since it uses photos from its photo hosting site Flickr to show you scenes from your current location.
Accuweather was good until recently when they removed!?? the feature that tracked your location and gave weather alerts for current locale.
Dark Sky is an eerily accurate, to the minute, weather forecaster for iOS, and Arcus is the closest competitor on Android.
They all have a radar screen and weather reports from your hometown. But the most important feature in my book is an alert you can hear when there are weather warnings in your area.
Tornado Alerts: If you’re traveling thru tornado areas, you might also have a backup app like the Red Cross “Tornado.” It is supposed to scream out a siren sound that you can’t miss.
The Weather Channel app
So far, my favorite is The Weather Channel App from Weather.com. If you tap on the 3-line menu and choose settings, this is where you tell it that you want it to “Follow Me” – and give you severe weather alerts for your current location. Other apps really irritated me by blaring severe weather alerts for places I’ve been rather than where I was. This app didn’t do that!
In addition to that one, most important feature, The Weather Channel app has all the other information and goodies you’d expect.
• An attractive home screen with large temperature display, sunrise/sunset times, and weather forecast
• More detailed screen with Wind, Humidity, Dew Point, Pressure, UV Index
• Hourly weather forecast
• Daily forecast for a week
• News videos from Weather Channel on TV
• Radar map: if you tap on it, then tap the play button at the bottom, the radar will show weather movement for the past hour, OR the projected movement for the next hour!
• Road Conditions map. This is nice – it colors areas where the road conditions are Windy, Wet, Foggy, Ponding, Ice, and Snow.
• Social – you can report the weather in your area, or share a photo
• Health – a pollen report for allergies, and a Cold and Flu report
One thing that may not be obvious is that, to get to all these other screens, you just scroll down. And, keep scrolling down. If you look for buttons, tools or options, you won’t find the features. Just swipe up on the screen. This is a free app, so be prepared for a lot of ads.
• The Weather Channel by The Weather Channel
• Available on both Apple iOS and Android
• Cost – Free
How about you? What weather app do you use and how do you like it?
Many new RVers are deathly afraid of doing something dumb, particularly in front of more experienced RVers. The first time backing the trailer into an RV site is perhaps the most terrifying of all experiences for a new RVer.
We’re here to tell you that even “seasoned” RVers can do some completely off-the-wall things, and those experiences add to the rich tapestry of the RV lifestyle. Ladies and Gentlemen, we present to you, the “Tale of Taking the New RV Home.”
We recently decided that our truck camper, much as we love its ability to practically go anywhere, was no longer suitable for us. Getting in and out of that cab-over bed was just too hard on arthritic joints. We still need a smaller rig for research, so a fifth wheel small enough to fit the bill would likely have similar issues for a bed.
A travel trailer was finally located that fit the bill, about a two-and-a-half hour pull from our winter stomping grounds. The first trip up was to evaluate the unit, and make sure it was what we needed — and it was. We bought it on the first visit, and the owners had to get their possessions out of the unit, so we made arrangements to come back later in the week.
While we wanted to use our truck for the tow home, friends wanted to come, too, so we ended up using their crew cab truck to accommodate everyone. Strike One! Your story wheel-man was pressed into using a truck he was not familiar with.
We called the morning of the big pull, only to find the sellers were busy with appointments most of the day, and they wanted to be present when we left with the rig. This pushed the pick-up time way into the afternoon — not a happy situation — but we worked with it. Later in the day they decided it would be OK to get pick up the rig with them gone, and we agreed. Strike Two! It’s best if the sellers are present at delivery time, and here’s why:
When we arrived on site to pick up the trailer, the seller had accidentally forgotten to disconnect the water hose from the trailer — and it was “live.” The hose bib supplying the water was on the other side of a tall, chain link fence, complete with a locked gate. Our friend, bless his heart, offered to “toss me over the fence,” but if getting in a camper bed is tough, imagine the repercussions of that one! A quick call to the seller’s cell phone revealed he was hours away. We crimped the water hose, and with a few wraps of duct tape, fashioned a sort-of “shut off valve.” Thank heavens, we at least remembered to bring the duct tape! Never leave home without it!
Next, the seller had promised to include a stabilizer hitch. Woops, it was with the seller, in his pickup truck. Fortunately we had brought a hitch with us, or we’d really have been stuck. In a couple of weeks, we’ll meet the seller as he travels through our area and get the missing hitch.
With the bugs worked out and the sunset rapidly approaching, we hooked up safety chains (with the aid of a wire tie — they need repairs, something we failed to notice on the initial inspection), plugged in the TEC (trailer electrical connector), raised the electric tongue jack, and were about ready to pull out, when a cooler voice said, “Better check the running lights!”
Sure enough, the running lights were AWOL. Since all of the lights, including stop, turn, and “markers” were out, it wasn’t just a matter of a simple fuse. Your technical writing friend here thought of a ground wire issue, but didn’t have the appropriate stuff to approach a repair. Since there was but one large town to run through on the return trip, and then miles of open desert (dotted with a few tiny burgs) we decided to “make a run for it,” without running lights.
We got through the big town before the sun blinked out, then decided we’d best re-chart our course, in order to stay off the interstate — surely we’d become a 26-foot “cop caller” if we ventured out on the high-speed run, and besides, running less than freeway speed without taillights is a sure-fire way to create one of the biggest collisions we’d never want to see.
Off we went, across country. Sure enough, long after darkness fell, we saw, coming our way, flashing blue and white lights. A sheriff’s patrol unit had pulled over someone on the other side of the road. “Best pull over!” advised my navigating buddy. “If he sees you without lights, he’ll come get you next!” A glance at the GPS showed our next turn off was six miles down the road. Was it the “Bonnie and Clyde” in your wheel man that caused him to hit the accelerator and blast (OK, at less than speed limit) past the stopped patrol cruiser? We may never know.
Our “alternative route” to avoid the interstate cost us dearly in both time and fuel economy. Out of our way, over the river, through the woods, and finally, back down into the sleepy little town we call our winter base. Without backup lights, without daylight, and only a flashlight and a couple of guiding voices, we managed to jackknife the trailer into our driveway — leaving one full street lane blocked. But, the disconnect will only take a couple of minutes, right?
Wrong! In our continuing comedy of errors, the tongue jack, which had worked without a fuss on picking up the trailer, simply chattered at us with wicked sounds, failing to even push a millimeter down toward the ground. Soon we had the whole troupe, scurrying like so many Laurel and Hardies, fetching bottle jacks, cinder blocks, and chunks of wood, so we could free the truck of the trailer. In the middle of this activity, your intrepid “RV technical specialist” (?) slid under the truck to release the safety chains. While there, a little light bulb in his head lit up. Pulling the TEC from the plug on the truck, he turned it over 180 degrees and plugged it back in the mating surface.
A chorus of, “Hey! All the running lights just came on! What’s going on?” immediately broke out. Your resident technical specialist no longer needed a flashlight to see. He had plenty of glowing red light coming from his cheeks. You can rest assured that he’ll never hear the end of that one.
No, we still haven’t resolved the failed tongue jack issue. But lessons aplenty to be “re-learned.” Give yourself plenty of time, especially when working with a new rig or a new towing vehicle. This last was certainly the third strike in this ball game — and I hope it will be the LAST time it’s ever repeated. But, probably not.
Dear New RVer: We haven’t bought an RV yet, but we keep hearing about something called a Toy Box. Just what’s a Toy Box, and (since we don’t have kids) do we want one? Sign us, Toy Box Baffled.
Dear Baff: Welcome to a whole new lifestyle, complete with jargon that would keep a etymologist happy for decades. If you’ve got “fifth wheel,” and “blue boy” down on your vocabulary list already, you’ve made miles of progress.
As to a “toy box” or also-known-as, a “toy hauler,” forget the kids, at least the ones under the age of 13. A toy box is a recreational vehicle designed with space to haul adult toys. Nah, not the kinds that come in the mail wrapped in plain brown paper, think bigger adult toys, like off-road vehicles or motorcycles. Imagine if you will, a travel trailer with bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom up in the front, and then the last many feet of the rig looking a bit like a plain room, with perhaps a couple of fold-down bunk beds strapped to the wall.
Now walk around to the rear of your imaginary travel trailer, and instead of a plain wall, a drop down door that doubles as a ramp takes up the space. Drop the door down and into that otherwise plain room you can drive up your motorcycle or “sand rail,” and carry them with you on a trip to the sand dunes, ORV park, or wherever you want to use those noisy toys.
We’ve found toy boxes to be a real favorite among many of the younger RV set. If you have the chance to drive Interstate 10 through the east end of southern California, on over toward Phoenix, you’ll see seeming swarms of toy haulers heading home every Sunday afternoon during the cooler months. They’ve probably been out hitting the dunes.
Toy haulers are great for those with adult toys. Some traveling vendors find them great for living in and hauling boxes of goods for sale. We even looked at one once when thinking about building an office in the “toy” area. Still, toy haulers have their drawbacks. In our perhaps limited experience, it seems that to get the space for the toys, sacrifices are made in the living area. We found living features in many spartan at best.
If you need the space for toys, suitcases full of money, or other large, bulky items, a toy box may suit your lifestyle. If you’re thinking of an RV in terms of comfort and livability and don’t need the space, you may be better off looking in a more standard trailer or fifth wheel.
Leveling your RV in a camp site not only makes for a more comfortable stay, if too far out of level, you can actually damage your rig’s refrigerator. Leveling an RV is a skill that has to be learned, but happily, it’s not a difficult one.
Some RVers have it easy: They may have a rig equipped with automatic levelers that bring the rig into plumb at the touch of a button. For the rest of us, we have to rely on the manual system of leveling, involving leveling blocks or planks. How do they work? You drive the “low” tire or tires up on the leveling blocks, bringing the low end or side of the rig up to level. One thing to note, some trailers are equipped with stabilizer jacks, usually a scissor jack permanently mounted to the trailer frame. These are only for stabilizing the trailer, not for leveling it. We’ll touch on that more later.
Courtesy Camping World
To manually level your rig you’ll need levelers. There are home brew levelers, and you can buy manufactured leveling systems. Home brew usually equates to a collection of boards, 2×8 lumber is perhaps the most common. Commercial leveling systems break down into about two styles Leveling blocks are somewhat akin to giant size Lego blocks–they snap together to help you reach the right height. Another common style is a graduated ramp.
Many carry home made levelers as they’ve found it inexpensive, perhaps picking the boards out of their own scrap piles. Just make sure whatever material you use completely supports the tire footprint. A tire hanging over the edge of a leveling board can be damaged. While home brew levelers may be less expensive than their commercial counterparts, they aren’t without problems. The weight of wood leveling boards adds up quickly; we’ve found that much of the dimensional lumber sold on the market today is a bit fragile–we’ve had a number of our recently purchased boards split, particularly in boondocking situations.
Another tool you’ll find essential in the leveling process? A level. Some rigs have “stick on” levels placed on their rigs; these can be helpful, but their “stickiness” can decrease with time and weather exposure, making them useless. We’ve found that a small builder’s level, a “torpedo” level to be more useful.
Here’s the procedure: When pulling into a site, stop and take a look at the lay of the land. Try and park in an area that’s already as close to level as possible. Consider rig leveling a “fine tuning” adjustment. With the rig placed where you want to park, check your outside levels, or better still, place a builder’s level on the floor of the rig. Eyeball level both side-to-side and front-to-rear.
Start by adjusting side-to-side level. You’ll need to lay leveling blocks on the ground in front of or behind the tire or tires that need to be raised. We say “tire or tires,” because we’ve found in some cases, it’s not necessary to raise both of our tandem tires up where the things aren’t too far out of whack. With blocks placed, roll the rig up onto the leveler. Having an assistant spotting you is a great help. Remember, keep the tire footprint completely on the leveler.
Not high enough? You may have to add more blocks, but use your stack blocks or chunks of wood to form a gradual climb for the tires. Don’t try and force the rig to climb from ground level up say, 2″ or more–build a ramp. Once in place, check the level again. When side-to-side is correct, you can use the trailer’s front hitch jack (or a fifth wheel’s “landing gear”) to adjust front-to-rear level.
Never try to level the rig using stabilizers. For trailer folks, these are often an integral part of the rig–scissor jacks attached permanently to the trailer frame. Other stabilizers are “stacker jacks” that can be placed under the trailer frame and are like a screw jack. These stabilizers come into play only AFTER the leveling blocks are placed. Stabilizer jacks aren’t strong enough, nor secure enough for the actual process of leveling. Their purpose is to simply to keep the rig from bouncing as you walk about in it.
Like a lot of things in RVing, learning to level the rig seems like a big deal when you first undertake it. You may take ‘several whacks at it,’ adding or subtracting leveling blocks or driving up and down a leveling ramp to ‘tune in’ to the correct spot. With time and practice, you’ll soon be able to gauge just how many blocks you’ll need, or how far up the ramp you’ll need to drive.
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With a headline like that, how could you not read further? The fact that the frustrations of three marketing women executives, who got tired of lugging huge pocketbooks around, was the impetus for what would become the Racktrap speaks for its value to women who would like to quickly access money, credit cards, license, ATM cards and a key without rummaging through a purse.
A broken-down vent operator doesn’t signal the need to replace the entire vent assembly. Not only is replacing a vent a far more labor-intensive proposition requiring access to the roof, it’s also more expensive. A complete roof vent replacement can set you back $50 (plus the cost of sealants), but we recently traded out a cranky operator for less than $10, with no additional supplies needed. And best of all, it’s a quick replacement, usually taking less than 20 minutes.
Now reinstall the operator mounting screws and put back the screen and trim as required.
If you don’t have plans for June 3rd and 4th, then I suggest you head over to Fruita, Colorado. For one weekend every May or June the people of Fruita, with great appreciation of their history, stage the Mike the Headless Chicken Festival. Now, if you think this is a joke, let me assure you that I am absolutely serious.
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Ford has issued a recall for thousands of rigs popular among some RVers. A bum transmission software issue in 2012 Expeditions, and 2011 and 2012 F-150 pickups can force an unwanted downshift, creating the potential for a crash. Close to 202,000 rigs are included in the callback. And 81,000 Ford Explorers from 2014 and 2015 are on recall for suspension toe links that could fracture. 
An Electric Bike is the perfect, simplest and most affordable way of sorting all the ‘challenges’ of RV’ing. Get around camp effortlessly, visit the sites or town nearby without unhooking or simply enjoy a fun ride with fellow campers! 
Keep up with RV Industry news
RV accent lighting is all the rage! Just look around the RV park! Enter Boogey Lights®! These robust, super-bright, state-of-the-art LED lights with hi-tech controller technology represent the next generation in LED lighting for RVs. The AWNING & UNDER-GLOW LIGHT KITS are specifically designed to withstand harsh operating environments. Don’t waste your money on junk! Get Boogey Lights! You can even control them with your Smart Phone! 
Do you know your RV smells?
Plugged RV sewer holding tank: What to do
The new TireTraker™ TT-500 is the most innovative & user friendly TPMS on the market with an unprecedented “Lifetime Warranty”, the only TPMS company in the industry to do so. The TT-500 features a larger, easier to read display, continuous pressure & temperature monitoring, automatic update, & monitoring up to 22 tires on your motorhome, trailer & tow vehicle from 0-232 psi ! Seven day per week sales & technical support & over 12 years of experience. List price (4 tires) $389. Our price only $289. 
Temperature gun is ‘essential equipment’ for many RVers!
Headed to Alaska? You need the 2016 Milepost
RV Stove Top Cover — Convert your RV’s stove top to a temporary food prep area
Protect your RV’s slideout
Endorsed by Roger Marble of RVtireSafety.com!
When you need a nightlight when without hookups, these are great: they light only when they sense motion, shutting off after 30 seconds of no movement. They use no wires and install in less than 5 minutes. Use outdoors, too. Lights come in a 3-pack. Battery-powered nightlights that stay on full time are power hogs and don’t last long. These can last up to a year! Watch the short video for a demonstration or 
May be required by law in some states!
Perfect place to
Which state is best
Keep rodents out of your RV!
Liquefy solid wastes in sewer holding tanks
Make your toad
his is our 2012 Arctic Fox 30U and Ford 350 Super Duty. We full-time and have volunteered for the U.S. National Forest Service, U.S. National Park Service and USAF FamCamps. At present we are in the Ocala National Forest, Fla., at the Doe Lake Group Recreation Campground. We are planning on trading in our 30U for an Arctic Fox 32-5M this summer. Anyone that gets the U will get a fine, 
outstanding unit. We are doing this only to go bigger. We wouldn’t live in anything but an Arctic Fox.
We are full-timers from Alpine, Texas, traveling three to five months annually, including extended family stays in Buffalo, New York, and Dallas, Texas. We have a 2001 Forest River Sunseeker with 2004 Toyota RAV4. The picture was taken at Canyonlands National Park, Needles District, in 2014.
So far, my favorite is 
Me” – and give you severe weather alerts for your current location. Other apps really irritated me by blaring severe weather alerts for places I’ve been rather than where I was. This app didn’t do that!
We’re here to tell you that even “seasoned” RVers can do some completely off-the-wall things, and those experiences add to the rich tapestry of the RV lifestyle. Ladies and Gentlemen, we present to you, the “Tale of Taking the New RV Home.”
As to a “toy box” or also-known-as, a “toy hauler,” forget the kids, at least the ones under the age of 13. A toy box is a recreational vehicle designed with space to haul adult toys. Nah, not the kinds that come in the mail wrapped in plain brown paper, think bigger adult toys, like off-road vehicles or motorcycles. Imagine if you will, a travel trailer with bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom up in the front, and then the last many feet of the rig looking a bit like a plain room, with perhaps a couple of fold-down bunk beds strapped to the wall.