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Tire flyaway danger looms for Grand Design owners, prompting recall

Wheels could loosen and take off flying in a travel trailer recall issue. Grand Design RV, LLC (Grand Design) is recalling certain 2025 Serenova travel trailers. The axle bearing nut may have been improperly tightened, causing the bearings to overheat. Overheated bearings can increase the risk of a fire or cause the tire to detach from the travel trailer, increasing the risk of a crash.

Grand Design axle nut remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the bearings as needed, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 28, 2025. Owners may contact Grand Design customer service at 1-574-825-9679. Grand Design’s number for this recall is 910049.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Background on Grand Design axle nut issue

In late January of this year, a Grand Design dealer encountered a bad bearing problem on one of the units, now on recall. Grand Design contacted MORryde, the axle supplier. MORryde inspected Grand Design units, and the latter recommended that the axle supplier issue a recall. On February 10, MORryde issued a recall, and Grand Design followed suit on February 20.

The defect involves an over-torqued castle nut on the axle spindle assembly. An over-torqued castle nut can bind the wheel bearings, leading to excessive heat. An over-heated wheel bearing can lead to loose wheel(s), wheel coming off and even fire.

It’s all too reminiscent of the old Dad Joke. It runs, what did Kenny Rogers sing when the wheel fell off his skateboard? “You picked a fine time to leave me, loose wheel.”

MORE ON GRAND DESIGN

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##RVT1199b

RV Daily Tips. Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Issue 2592


Today’s thought

“The central dilemma in journalism is that you don’t know what you don’t know.” —Bob Woodward


Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Pancake Day! Stop by any participating IHOP® location for a free stack of pancakes.

On this day in history: 1789 – In New York City, the first Congress of the United States meets, putting the United States Constitution into effect.


ILLUSTRATION BY Clint Norrell. Copyright 2025

Tip of the day
Pay attention to passing motorists’ warnings of trouble

On the road, most of us have experienced looking out our window to see a car passing by with someone waving frantically, and pointing toward our vehicle or behind it. Most of the time these are Good Samaritans who have spotted something wrong with our vehicle or the one we’re towing. This message and the ensuing responses were posted at our RV Advice Group on Facebook and we believe are worth passing along.

And thanks to those of you who care enough about others to flag them down when there’s a problem! Click here to read.


Ask Dave
Wire with connector hanging under my Winnebago. Should I be concerned?

By Dave Solberg
Dear Dave,
I have 2016 Winnebago Journey 38P, Freightliner chassis, Cummins ISL9 engine. After 7 years of ownership, while washing my coach a few weeks ago, there was an electrical line hanging down under the left rear section of the motorhome. It is encased in black tubing, white in color, with a clip-type connector on the end. White color made me think it’s a ground wire. My tech and I cannot figure out where it connects. We searched everywhere within the span of the wire and there seems to be nothing to connect to. The coach runs fine, no warning lights, everything functions. What could it possibly be? Need your help.  Thank you! —Paul, 2016 Winnebago Journey 38P  Read Dave’s answer.


Video of the day
9 things to know about overnight parking at Cracker Barrel

By Cheri Sicard
Overnight parking at Cracker Barrel restaurants is popular with many traveling RVers. It’s generally safe, and management usually welcomes RVers; plus, you can have a tasty dinner before turning in or a hearty breakfast the next morning before hitting the road. But Izzy and MJ of Endless RVing, one of our favorite RV YouTube channels, say there are nine things you should know before settling in for the night at a Cracker Barrel.


Featured article
Why in the heck are some people so mean-spirited?

By Nanci Dixon
Why in the world are some people so mean-spirited? We have always found the RVing community generally kind, courteous, and friendly. What has happened that has moved a small group of people to sarcasm and meanness online? Do they not realize that flinging hateful words are to real people, your fellow campers? Continue reading.


Reader poll
Do you like peanut butter?

Respond here.


Quick tip

Tangled cords? It’s a wrap!

Gshindler64 sent along a tip on storing electrical cords. “Empty toilet paper or paper towel cardboard tubes make excellent, safe storage for the cords. The cords can be loosely wrapped around your hand or loosely folded at their natural folds and inserted into the tubes. (Just remember that wrapping the cords too tightly will eventually damage the wires.) The tubes can be marked with a Sharpie to identify the contents.”


Website of the day

Topo Maps+
Hiking or driving into the backcountry? This app helps you stay on track, even if you don’t have cell service.


? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
If you own and/or love one of these, there’s no way you’re not going to want this. It doesn’t get much cuter… Not to mention this could be one of the best, er, cutest, gifts you ever give…


And the survey says…

We’ve polled RVtravel.com readers more than 5,000 times in recent years. Here are a few things we’ve learned about them:

• 56 percent own a record player and use it sometimes or often.
• Out of a list of options, the highest number of voters, 33 percent, said American cuisine was their favorite, followed by Mexican (25 percent), Italian (20 percent) and Chinese (9 percent).
• When washing their hands, 60 percent say they first wet their hands before adding soap.

Recent poll: Do you read other RV-related newsletters?


Trivia

The initial price of sending mail with the Pony Express was originally set at $5 per 1/2 ounce (more than $150 today), then $2.50, and by July 1861 it was $1.


Readers’ pet of the day

“Kitty Cowboy goes cabin camping and loves his carrier that we call the ‘Dude Ranch.'” —Annette Freitas

Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. We publish one each weekday in RV Daily Tips and in our Sunday RV Travel newsletter. No blurry photos, please! Please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!

RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.


Leave here with a laugh

This is our new favorite video! You’ll smile through the whole thing.


Today’s weather forecast across the nation

Visit Current National Radar Weather Map


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Our policy on using artificial intelligence.

Wire with connector hanging under my Winnebago. Should I be concerned?

Dear Dave,
I have 2016 Winnebago Journey 38P, Freightliner chassis, Cummins ISL9 engine. After 7 years of ownership, while washing my coach a few weeks ago, there was an electrical line hanging down under the left rear section of the motorhome. It is encased in black tubing, white in color, with a clip-type connector on the end. White color made me think it’s a ground wire. My tech and I cannot figure out where it connects. We searched everywhere within the span of the wire and there seems to be nothing to connect to. The coach runs fine, no warning lights, everything functions. What could it possibly be? Need your help.  Thank you! —Paul, 2016 Winnebago Journey 38P

Dear Paul,
Winnebago has a great owner resource portal on their website, which I went to. Since you indicated it was the left rear, I would start by looking at the chassis wiring.

Chassis Wire Diagram
Chassis wire diagram (Click to enlarge.)

According to the wiring diagram, the ground wires for the chassis are black. Most of these are provided by Freightliner. So a white wire most likely is a positive wire.

Here is a link to the Wiring Diagram Book for the Journey 38P. (The list at the top are links to each of those pages.) There are 11 pages, and I notice there are several callouts for different options such as a standard water heater or wiring for an on-demand model. This would mean there are extra wire harnesses and connectors for different configurations.

We installed a new set of driver and passenger seats in a 2003 Winnebago Brave with an electric feature. There was a wiring harness under the front bulkhead for that upgrade, complete with a 6-pin automotive connector.

Winnebago has a wire prep department that customizes wire looms for specific models which has the exact length, automotive connections, grommets, and torque specifications for each model. These wires are all stamped with a code, so you should be able to find a part number indicating the gauge, component, and other information.

12 Volt Wire Harness
12-volt wire harness

 You might also enjoy this from Dave 

RV “Gremlins”, Part 2: The mysteries of 12-volt wiring

I don’t know if I can actually say what “Gremlin” frustrates me the most. However, 12-volt DC wiring has to be up there with the worst of them! To start with, there is typically very poor, if any, documentation available from the manufacturer or dealer. However, I do have to commend Winnebago, as they have some very good documentation now available on their website in the owner section. Continue reading.


You should enjoy these questions Dave answered

• Do ‘Tire Saver Ramps’ prolong the life of RV tires?
• Why did the lithium battery explode and flame up?
• Plugged RV’s 30-amp shoreline cord into 50-amp outlet; now RV won’t run
• How long will an RV 12-volt refrigerator run with two batteries?

• Can I tow a fifth wheel with a 1/2-ton pickup?


Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and the author of the “RV Handbook.”

Read more from Dave here

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DAVE?

Send your inquiries to him using the form below.

Name
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload

##RVDT2592

Pay attention to passing motorists’ warnings of trouble

7

On the road, most of us have experienced looking out our window to see a car passing by with someone waving frantically, and pointing toward our vehicle or behind it. Most of the time these are Good Samaritans who have spotted something wrong with our vehicle or the one we’re towing. This message and the ensuing responses were posted at our RV Advice Group on Facebook and we believe are worth passing along.

And thanks to those of you who care enough about others to flag them down when there’s a problem!

From a group member

“This is a tip for new RV drivers. As cars pass you, every so often, take a glance at the passenger seat of the car passing you. If they ignore you then that’s good! But, they may just be trying to get your attention to alert you that something behind you is not right. Maybe a strap is loose, or something is hanging. These things don’t cause an alarm for you, so if you can become aware about it sooner, you might just be able to fix it before something bad happens. Here’s to safe travels.”

And here are a few responses

“Had that happen while pulling a U-Haul last month. A wonderful young man came up beside us, stayed there until we noticed. He pointed, we pulled over… flat/blow out. Didn’t hear it or feel it! We were so thankful!! BTW, U-Haul came within a half hour and changed the tire quick!”

“Happened to me yesterday. My tow car trunk lid was up and some nice gentleman kept blinking his lights and motioning me that something was wrong. Of all the cars which passed, only one made such an effort.”

“Just happened to me. My water heater door was flapping and someone pulled up next to me and let me know.”

“Yep, on a small travel trailer last year people tried to get my attention but I didn’t get it at first. Lost a propane tank and one was dragging under the trailer, sparks flying and actually caused the tank to puncture. Could have ended in a disaster – lucky.”

“My husband used to drive truck and it was someone passing him that alerted him that the back of his truck was on fire. He was able to pull off as there was an exit right there and everyone was safe. Truck, not so much.”

“We had one of our bin doors open on the driver’s side. Luckily someone came up next to us and honked and pointed to tell my husband. He had not noticed it.”

What about you? Has a passerby ever pointed out a bad situation to you that saved your day? Please leave a comment below.

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Everything you need to know about charging RV batteries

RVDT2592

Do you like peanut butter?

32

Here are some fun facts about peanut butter according to the National Peanut Board:

• Crafting a 12-ounce jar of peanut butter requires approximately 540 peanuts.

• In the United States, any item labeled as “peanut butter” must contain a minimum of 90 percent peanuts, according to regulations.

• The production of 1 ounce of peanuts necessitates 3.2 gallons of water, whereas 1 ounce of almonds requires a substantial 28.7 gallons.

• Residents of the East Coast tend to favor smooth peanut butter, whereas individuals residing on the West Coast lean towards the crunchy variety.

• The average adult eats a PB&J three times a month.

Lastly, if you ARE a peanut butter lover… these are for you. Trust us.

You should enjoy these other popular polls

• For couples: How many times a day do you kiss your partner?
• Do you lock your RV when you take a 10-minute walk around your campground?
• How would you describe the quality of workmanship on your RV?
• Should drivers with RVs 40 feet or longer need a special driver’s license?
• How far away do you store your RV when not using it?

##RVDT2592

RV shipments forecast for 2025 same as last year

3

The Spring 2025 edition of RV RoadSigns, the quarterly forecast prepared by ITR Economics for the RV Industry Association, projects 2025 wholesale shipments ranging from 333,400 units to 366,800 units, with a median of 350,100 units.

The RVIA estimated a nearly identical number of shipments last year at this time, with wholesale shipments ending up short by about 16,000 at year’s end.

“After seeing wholesale shipments finish 2024 up seven percent at 333,700 units, we are cautiously optimistic that the industry will see further growth over the course of the year,” said RV Industry Association President and CEO Craig Kirby.

“Interest rates continue to be a challenge, but there are green shoots for the market including continued consumer interest in RVing, creating a positive overall retail environment.”

Reaching the 350,100 wholesale unit projection would be a 5 percent increase over the 333,700 unit year-end total. Towable units are expected to total 313,300 units on 4.8% growth, with motorhome shipments gaining 5.5% to 36,800 units. Motorized shipments only represent about 10 percent of all RVs shipped and continue their decline as a percentage of total shipments over past years.

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10 Secret Buc-ee’s rules nobody tells you about
RV black tank best practices that work and 2 that failed
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##RVT1199b

Got AAA? Save big on fuel every time you stop at Love’s

Love’s Travel Stops and AAA have partnered to offer savings on fuel to AAA members through the Love’s Connect App in time for spring break and summer travels. AAA members who link their accounts to the Love’s Connect App can save on gasoline, auto diesel and propane purchases when they stop at Love’s. AAA and Love’s? Perhaps it’s a natural connection.

“At Love’s, we know how important it is to save money on essentials like fuel whenever possible,” said Ashley Gockstetter, vice president of customer experience at Love’s in a news release. “We are proud to be an official AAA fuel partner to offer their members savings on every gallon of gasoline, auto diesel and propane nationwide.”

AAA and Love’s in 40 states

At Love’s locations in 40 states, customers can access savings on gasoline, auto diesel and propane when they scan their barcode, enter their account number from the Love’s Connect App or enter their phone number at the pump.

Fuel and propane savings for AAA members include:

• $0.13 off every gallon of gasoline

• $0.20 off every gallon of auto-diesel

• $0.50 off every gallon of bulk propane

In addition to fuel savings, customers can find food and drink discounts on the Love’s Connect App, including Love’s Drink Club, where every 5th drink is free, and the newly launched “Love Your Mondays” promotion. Love Your Mondays puts a positive spin on the start of the week by giving customers a free item every Monday through the app.

The AAA and Love’s fuel discount is not valid in Wisconsin and New Jersey. AAA members can learn more and download the Love’s Connect app here.

At this point, the arrangement doesn’t translate to a big discount in Love’s RV hookup sites. Get the hint, guys?

More articles you might really like

• Buying an RV: What is the markup on an RV? What should you offer the dealer?
• 6-volt or 12-volt batteries for RVs: Which is better?
• Ex-RV salesman offers shopping tips for new rig
• RVelectricity: Does your RV use 120 or 240 volts?
• What is the best house battery for your RV?
• Everything you need to know about charging RV batteries

##RVT1199b

Will BLM firings ignite a crisis at Burning Man?

It’s a late-summer happening on the Nevada desert that draws thousands of art-minded counter-culturists. The Burning Man Festival on Northwest Nevada’s Black Rock Desert is a huge drawing card, pumping up the local economy—and RV rental agency revenues. But with thousands of federal employees, including an untold number from the Bureau of Land Management, cut off the federal workforce, could there be a Burning Man crisis?

BLM law enforcement needs could spark Burning Man crisis

BLM officers, and Burning Man representative, 2013. Photo: BLM

Regional news writers are already raising the question. Burning Man will rock the desert from August 24 through September 1. The festival sets up on federal land, which the BLM manages. Festival organizers need permits from the agency and rely on about 100 BLM law enforcement officers to monitor the event.

However, Reuters reports that the purge of federal workers has cut at least 800 BLM employees. BLM patrol officers aren’t the only ones Burning Man depends on; dozens of others are involved in the permitting and inspection process. Will the agency manage to handle the Burning Man show this year?

It’s a question raised by Nevada media outlet, the Reno Gazette Journal. Burning Man Festival organizers responded to the news outlet’s questions this way. “We have worked closely with the BLM through many different administrations and hope that BLM’s Burning Man team won’t be negatively impacted by budget cuts, layoffs or changes in policy,”

In a similar vein, the BLM itself didn’t have much to contribute to the question, telling the Gazette, “While we do not have a comment on personnel at this time, no decision has been made to changes for operations and planning of Burning Man.” That statement came from BLM Public Affairs Specialist Heather O’Hanlon.

First Trump administration: Build a wall around Burning Man

During the Trump administration’s first White House occupancy, things got a bit dicey for festival organizers. In 2019, prior to that year’s festival, the BLM proposed major changes. The agency suggested that the festival would need to hire private security, rather than using BLM rangers.

Additionally, it wanted a barrier built around the festival area. That would have translated to a wall of concrete Jersey barriers making up a 10-mile perimeter. For readers who are into fantastic facts, the wall would have weighed in at a remarkable 19,000,000 lbs.

With just months before the 2019 festival, organizers had a fit. News website mashable.com wrote: “The 372-page BLM proposal, if implemented, ‘would forever negatively change the fabric of the Burning Man event, if not outright kill it,’ the Burning Man Project wrote in response last week. It estimated BLM’s requirements would cost a total of $20 million every year, raising the price of tickets — which average around $400 — by $286 apiece.”

No wall yet, but law enforcement still an issue

So far, the BLM hasn’t shown any plans to roll out the Great Wall of Burning Man this year. However, if BLM employee cutbacks impact the agency’s ability to provide patrol officers, the festival might have to hire private security. The chance of hiring other local law enforcement officers looks slim. The festival takes place in Nevada’s Pershing County.

Pershing County’s sheriff, Jerry Allen, told the Reno Gazette that his agency doesn’t have a contract to provide patrols for Burning Man. He explained that major philosophical differences exist between Burning Man organizers and his views on how law enforcement should operate at the festival. Then there’s the issue of money—Burning Man planners appear unwilling to pay the fees Allen would request.

With just over five months before the event is set to begin on the Black Rock Desert, a Burning Man crisis remains a real possibility. Burning Man has some burning questions to answer.

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• Why is there no industry-wide RV quality control?

##RVT1199b

I-40 reopens near NC-TN border, but travel challenges remain

3

On Saturday, a 12‑mile stretch of North Carolina’s Interstate 40 near the Tennessee border finally reopened after months of closure caused by Hurricane Helene. While this reopening is welcome news for RVers and other travelers, don’t let the relief fool you—this isn’t back to completely normal travel conditions just yet.

What’s happening on I‑40

Officials from the North Carolina Department of Transportation have cleared this section of I‑40 for limited travel. However, the roadway is operating in a very restricted mode. You’ll find only one narrow lane in each direction, and drivers must stick to a 35‑mph speed limit.

A particularly critical detail: A tiny 9‑inch by 9‑inch concrete curb is all that separates oncoming traffic. While there is an additional lane on the eastbound side, it is reserved exclusively for emergency services. Drivers are warned to stay out of this lane.

Vital link

This reopening restores a vital link between western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. However, officials were quick to point out that the road isn’t fully repaired. The damage inflicted by Hurricane Helene—especially the landslides and washouts in the Pigeon River Gorge—means that delays and slower speeds are still part of the picture.

Engineering safety

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, engineers undertook extensive measures to secure the remaining roadway before reopening it for travel.

Crews drilled long steel rods deep into the bedrock to stabilize unstable sections. They also filled gaps with high‑strength grout and sprayed concrete along the cliff face to prevent further erosion and landslides.

Advanced techniques (e.g., soil nailing) were also employed to reinforce the embankment and improve drainage. These emergency repairs have been critical in ensuring that, despite its reduced capacity, the road is safe enough for cautious use.

Project cost

The long‑term plan to restore I‑40 to its full four‑lane configuration is an immense undertaking. The entire project is estimated to cost between $750 million and $1 billion.

Important warnings for RVers

If you’re an RVer planning a trip through this area, take extra precautions:

Slow down: The reduced speed limit is there for a reason. Don’t try to push the pace; this isn’t your typical four‑lane interstate.

Expect traffic delays: With only one lane open in each direction, you should anticipate traffic backups and occasional stops.

Mind the narrow curb: That 9‑inch curb isn’t just a quirky detail—it’s a critical safety measure.

Emergency lane: Remember that the far-right lane of the highway’s eastbound side is a dedicated emergency lane. Travelers are urged to stay out of this lane, which is off‑limits to regular vehicles.

Plan ahead: Check current road conditions at DriveNC.gov before heading out on your trip. Given the ongoing repairs, alternate routes might save you from frustrating delays.

Note: Trucks and standard vehicles are allowed to use the newly opened highway section. However, wide loads must still use alternate routes (VA I-77 to I-81). Consider your comfort level at driving your rig on this narrow stretch of highway.

Looking ahead

Transportation officials are working hard on the long‑term repairs. Full restoration to a four‑lane highway is projected to take until late 2026. Further delays are possible if additional challenges arise.

While the reopening is a step in the right direction for both daily commuters and RV enthusiasts, it’s clear that patience and extra vigilance are essential during this transitional period.

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Buying an RV: What is the markup on an RV? What should you offer the dealer?
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What is the best house battery for your RV?
Everything you need to know about charging RV batteries

##RVT1199b

Nationwide protests erupt at national parks over job cuts

54

Across the country this weekend (March 1) protests erupted in all 433 national parks over sweeping staffing cuts in our national lands.

In an effort to lower the national debt, the current administration has implemented deep budget cuts that have led to massive layoffs and rescinded job offers for seasonal workers.

National park protests from coast to coast

In Yosemite, protesters got creative by displaying bold messages on live webcams—a clever way to ensure their voices reached an audience far beyond the park’s borders.

At Joshua Tree, hundreds gathered to show solidarity, worried that the staffing cuts could compromise everything from trail maintenance to visitor safety.

In Louisville, Kentucky, dedicated supporters rallied at Mammoth Cave National Park to protest the cuts. Dozens of former park employees and local advocates voiced their concerns about the potential loss of essential services, such as search and rescue, facility upkeep, and educational programs—all vital to both visitors and the local tourism economy.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park You Tube screenshot

In the Northeast, demonstrators at Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio (photo) braved wintry conditions to chant slogans like “Less rangers, more risk!” Their determination underscored that staffing cuts aren’t just a Western issue; they pose a threat to public lands from coast to coast.

Across the mid-Atlantic, protests near historic sites and parks have similarly highlighted that these reductions jeopardize safety and service quality.

What’s at stake

For RVers, our parks are more than just scenic stops along the way—they’re home away from home. We pack our rigs with everything needed for adventure, but we also rely on the vital services that park staff provide: clean restrooms, well-maintained campgrounds, and safety programs that help keep us secure while exploring.

With layoffs affecting roles from fee collectors and maintenance crews, to search and rescue teams, the visitor experience is poised to take a hit. One recent report noted that reduced staffing is already leading to longer wait times at entrance gates, unclean facilities, and even potential delays in emergency response.

The rationale behind the cuts

The administration justifies these measures as a way to trim government spending and lower the national debt. By reducing the workforce in federal agencies, including the National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Forest Service, officials argue that they are eliminating wasteful spending.

Critics warn that stripping away staff not only endangers the safety and upkeep of these public lands but also risks higher long-term costs if facilities degrade or if emergencies are not promptly handled.

Rehiring efforts and the summer rush

In response to growing concerns, the Department of the Interior has allowed the NPS to begin rehiring seasonal workers for the busy summer months. The agency now has permission to bring on up to 7,700 seasonal positions.

For folks planning summer trips, the timing is critical. If the seasonal staff aren’t in place soon, parks could face disruptions that not only inconvenience visitors but also potentially compromise safety on the roads, campgrounds, and trails.

Communities brace for change

For communities that depend on park tourism, the economic consequences could be severe, affecting local businesses and job opportunities, as well as the overall visitor experience.

Whether it’s a roadside diner, a quaint local shop, or a campground run by community members, the ripple effects of these cuts could be felt far beyond the park boundaries.

Two sides?

As with most problems, there are two sides to this important issue: make cuts to reduce our national debt or continue funding our national places? Could there be a compromise? If so, what would that look like?

Chime in with your thoughts and ideas.

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• 10 Secret Buc-ee’s rules nobody tells you about
• RV black tank best practices that work and 2 that failed
• Why is there no industry-wide RV quality control?

##RVT1199b

RV Daily Tips. Monday, March 3, 2025

Issue 2591


Today’s thought

“The greatest thing that we can do is to help somebody know that they’re loved and capable of loving.” —Fred “Mister” Rogers 


Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Cold Cuts Day!

On this day in history: 1891 – Shoshone National Forest is established as the first national forest in the U.S. and world.


Tip of the day
Water pump noises could mean leaks in your RV’s water system

By Russ & Tiña De Maris
RV water pumps can be aurally disturbing. The little motor that fires up when you open a tap or flush the toilet can make plenty of noise. But when there’s no “demand” for water, your RV water pump should be the soul of quietude. Water pump noises when there’s no demand for water could mean you have a water system leak. That’s a real issue, not only from wasting water, but because leaks can quickly do serious damage to your rig. Continue reading.


Ask Dave
Cold water has rotten egg smell in one RV sink. Why?

By Dave Solberg
Dear Dave, 
The cold water line in the front bathroom sink smells like rotten eggs, and it only takes 12 hours to smell that way. None of the other lines in the RV do this. We are full-timers and have been in the rig since it was new. —Phil, 2018 Heartland Cyclone 4151 Read Dave’s answer.


In the RV shop with Dustin
Using an anemometer to measure airflow in an RV

By Dustin Simpson
Every Wednesday, Dave Solberg and I used meet for a livestream called Talkin’ RV Tech. We’d not only answer technical questions, but we’d also share what we like to call “cool tools.” These are tools and gadgets that we actually use! This clip shows one of our past shares, an anemometer. My shop has several versions of this gadget, and we use them year-round. Continue reading.


Video of the day
The best RV accessories found at the Hershey RV Show

By Cheri Sicard
The team from Our Next Adventure recently attended the massive Hershey RV Show. While there, they went shopping and in this video, they share their five favorite new RV accessories, gear, and gadgets that they discovered at the huge RV show.

Pssssst: Don’t like watching videos? Did you know Cheri writes an article to accompany each video? It’s true! All these video posts have articles if you’d rather read than watch. 


The latest news for RVers

To read more recent news, click here.


Featured article
Check out what hitting a pothole can do to a tire

By Roger Marble
Some people want to claim a tire is “defective” and present the tire for a free replacement because of a bulge in the sidewall. There is no question of there being a sidewall bulge, but my job was to actually look at tires and determine if the tire actually had a defect. … Close inspection can often reveal the evidence that helps the investigator learn the root cause of the tire failure. Learn much more and see the interesting pictures.


Reader poll
As a child, did you ever fear a scary creature lived under your bed?

Respond here.


Quick tip
How to warm up a frigid slideout floor

If you and your rig are stuck in the cold country, living can be tough. One RVer stuck in an Illinois winter makes a suggestion: “Even after putting on our skirting last year, I noticed that the floors of the slides in our living area were extremely cold. There didn’t seem to be a draft, and the seals around the edges of the slides seemed fine. It was actually the floors themselves that were, according to my thermometer, a good 20 degrees colder than the rest of the room. To solve this problem, I went to Lowe’s and purchased some foam board, and we duct taped it to the bottom of each slide. This made a huge difference in the temperature of the floor and the warmth of the whole RV. If I had it to do over again, though, I would use HVAC tape instead of duct tape as it is supposed to be better in all weather and not leave residue when removed.” Learn more here.


Random RV thoughts

If you dream of traveling full-time in your RV, do not make excuses why you can’t do it soon. It is easier than ever these days to be a full-timer. Putting off your dream might mean you never will. What if you or your partner gets sick before your “day” arrives? So don’t make excuses. Set a date today. Then find a way to meet it.


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Website of the day

The Best Delis Across America
Okay, sandwich lovers! This list from Cheapism was practically written for you! Warning: You will get hungry!


? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
It “vants” to suck your… well, you’ll see. We’re embarrassed to admit we own this (see, we fall for our own ads all the time!) and have given it as a gift many times. It’s just THAT cool and it really does work well!


Recipes of the day
Ham or turkey in the fridge? Make a sandwich!

Since it’s National Cold Cuts Day, we figured we had to give you a few delicious recipes using cold cuts. We bet there’s a good chance you have turkey, ham or salami in your fridge right now, so you better check these out.

Pssssst: If you love club sandwiches as much as we do, we think you’ll get a kick out of this


Trivia

Over the last 50 years, the marriage rate in the U.S. has dropped by nearly 60%. What’s happening: Taxes and some other legal structures still give an advantage to married couples, but the formal benefits of marriage are diminishing, said Andrew Cherlin, a sociologist at Johns Hopkins. And the societal pressure to marry has eroded dramatically.


Readers’ pet of the day

“Twilight (Lab) loves going on adventures! Loves when we go camping or anywhere in the car. She always has ‘shotgun’ with her head out the window! I’m always riding in the back behind her making sure she is safe!” —Lisa Thoreson

Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!

RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.


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The best RV accessories found at the Hershey RV Show

By Cheri Sicard
The team from Our Next Adventure recently attended the massive Hershey RV Show. While there, they went shopping. In the video below, they share their five favorite new RV accessories, gear, and gadgets that they discovered at the huge RV show.

Favorite accessories from the 2025 Hershey RV Show

#1 JLF Adventures Inflatable Kayaks: JLF Adventures started in 2017 with an inflatable paddle board. The product line has evolved based on customer feedback. Now they make kayaks and other inflatable rafts.

Using the hand pump, it takes about 5 minutes to inflate an 11- or 12-foot kayak. The 15-foot tandem kayak takes about 10 minutes. You can use an electric inflator, but it doesn’t necessarily save time. The folded 15-foot tandem kayak is surprisingly compact.

And there’s more! JLF Adventures partners with Bixby Motor to offer a motor attachment for the kayaks. The Bixby motor has a lithium battery. It’s great if you encounter wind or strong currents or if you have an injury. Let’s face it, we’re not getting any younger.

#2 Amsoil Detailing Kit: Amsoil’s new detailing kit will keep your RV sparkling. It includes:

Car wash soap: A high-quality car wash soap to get your RV sparkling.

Interior detailing: This is like Armor All, but better. It’s non-sticky and comes in lemon and non-scented options.

Ceramic spray: This is comparable to Rain-X and is designed for the exterior of your RV (excluding the windows).

Glass cleaner: This glass cleaner is certified for tinted windows and is ammonia-free.

#3 Train View RV Drying Rack:  How many times have you been camping and ended up hanging your towels off the awning, bikes, or picnic table? This ingenious product comes with different brackets to fit over your bumper, hang off your ladder, or attach to your bike rack. It can stand up on its own or hang from a bracket. It even comes with a little J channel so you can hang it inside your house or RV.

#4 True Honey Teas: If you’re a tea and honey drinker, you’ll love True Honey Teas. The tea bags have honey granules already in them. The larger tea bags are designed for 16 oz. travel mugs and can be brewed hot or cold.

#5 E-Z Over Grill: Cooking over a campfire can be tricky. But the E-Z Over Grill makes it easy.  Check out these great features:

• The grill can cook anything.

• It has a rotating and flipping mechanism.

• Temperature controlled with numbered settings.

• A lid for adding a smoky flavor.

• Versatile. You can even cook pizzas and strombolis on it. too!

• Comes with a tripod and carrying case.

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