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Duraflex Gator sewer hose kits product review

Dustin Simpson
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Duraflex Gator sewer hose kits product review

At California RV Specialists, we understand how important it is for RV owners to have dependable, high-quality sanitation equipment. That’s why we’re proud to highlight Gator Sewer Hose Kits by Duraflex Sanitation Products—a trusted solution for managing your RV’s waste system with reliability, durability, and ease.

These sewer hose kits are engineered to simplify the waste-disposal process, offering everything RV owners need to maintain a clean and efficient system on the road.

These are what we recommend in our shop, and here’s why:

High-quality construction for all-weather conditions

Gator sewer hoses are manufactured from rugged, flexible materials that maintain their integrity in all climates. Whether you’re camping in hot summer heat or cold winter temperatures, these hoses retain their flexibility and performance, ensuring smooth use every time.

Each kit is designed with:

  • Duraflex weather-resistant hose material
  • Flexibility across hot, cold, and wet conditions
  • A compressible design for compact storage
  • Standard 3-inch inside diameter for efficient wastewater flow

What’s included in each Gator sewer hose kit

Duraflex has thoughtfully engineered these kits to include essential components for safe and convenient waste management. Each package contains:

  • Durable sewer hose (various lengths available)
  • Clear elbow—allows users to monitor flow and confirm complete drainage
  • Drip caps—helps prevent odors and unwanted spills during storage
  • Slip sockets and spigots with secure flanges
  • Bayonet ends for quick, reliable attachment
Everything in the kit is meant to simplify the waste-disposal process while ensuring secure connections and dependable performance.

Engineered for compatibility and ease of use

These sewer hose kits are fully compatible with all industry-standard 3-inch RV sewer fittings, making them a dependable choice for nearly any RV setup. Notable features include:

Secure fittings

Slip sockets and spigots are molded with strong flanges that ensure a tight, stable connection to your RV’s drain valve.

Reliable bayonet connectors

Bayonet fittings allow for a quick, secure hookup to standard 3-inch sewer outlets—no stressful wrestling with loose or incompatible parts.

UV-stabilized ABS construction

All fittings are made from durable, UV-stabilized ABS plastic, protecting them from sun exposure, cracking, and long-term degradation.

These design features make the Gator Sewer Hose Kits an excellent investment for RVers who prioritize reliability, durability, and convenience.

Why choose Gator sewer hose kits?

  • Designed for long-term performance
  • Weather-resistant and durable
  • Compatible with all major RV sewer system components
  • Easy to compress and store
  • Includes everything needed for a complete connection
  • Built with flexible, rugged materials
  • Excellent for both stationary and travel use

Whether you’re replacing an aging sewer hose or upgrading to a more dependable setup, the Gator Sewer Hose Kits deliver value and dependability for every trip.

Sewer hose kits

More from Dustin

Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.

A smart, spacious Class C: The 2026 Winnebago Sunflyer 26FE

Gail Marsh
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A smart, spacious Class C: The 2026 Winnebago Sunflyer 26FE

If you’re a traveler who wants a Class C motorhome that feels open and ready for road life, the 2026 Winnebago Sunflyer 26FE deserves a hard look.

I was able to see this coach as it debuted at the Florida RV SuperShow last week and was favorably impressed. A salesperson proudly demonstrated how this coach sleeps six. However, I personally think a solo RVer or a couple would be the most likely buyers.

Behind the walls

From the outside, the Sunflyer 26FE is built on a Ford E-450 chassis with a gas engine and automatic transmission. I felt very comfortable behind the wheel because it felt so much like our Ford 350 Super Duty.

Winnebago wraps this RV in composite sidewalls and a one-piece curved fiberglass roof for strength and weather resistance. The 26FE has two slideouts that open up the main living and rear bedroom. I especially appreciate that there’s a flat floor all the way through, so no steps to manage once you get inside.

Key specs

• Exterior length: 28′3″
• Exterior height: 11′3″
• Exterior width: 8′5.5″
• Awning length: 17′
• Interior height: 6′10″
• Freshwater capacity: 44 gal.
• Black tank capacity: 40 gal.
• Gray tank capacity: 41 gal.
• Fuel capacity: 55 gal.
• GVWR: 14,500 lbs.
• Sleeps up to 6
• MSRP listed $182,000–$188,000 (with dealer/show discounts, the price hovers around $135,000)

Screenshot

Interior and living space

I walked inside the Sunflyer 26FE and immediately noticed how open it feels for a 28-foot coach. Those two slideouts make a huge difference, taking what could be a tight corridor and turning it into a room you can live in comfortably. Natural light pours in through the windows, and the floorplan helps eliminate that boxed-in feeling you sometimes get in smaller Class C’s.

Kitchen

The kitchen in the 26FE is compact, as you might expect. You get solid counter space with a flip-up extension that adds much-needed prep space. The Sunflyer 26FE features a two-burner cooktop and a combo microwave/convection oven, which doubles as an air fryer, if you like that convenience. A 10-cu. ft., 12 V compressor refrigerator/freezer makes storing fresh foods easy. There’s plenty of pantry storage—something you don’t usually see in a rig of this length.

Kitchen

Living room

Across from the kitchen, the living area gives you choices depending on how you like to set up your coach. You can choose a theater seating option if you don’t require the extra sleep space. The TV is placed off to the side, which may make viewing a little awkward—a design miss if you watch a lot of television.

Big windows make the area feel bright, and charging outlets are thoughtfully placed for charging your devices.

Diningliving

Bath

The bathroom on the Sunflyer feels quite spacious for this size coach. I was pleasantly surprised at the size of the shower, and the skylight keeps the space bright. There’s plenty of room to move around, and even storage for toiletries. All nice surprises to me as I toured the coach.

Bath

Bedroom

In the rear slideout, you have a walk-around queen bed with nightstands and outlets. A wardrobe gives you real closet space instead of just shelving. There’s a spot for a TV, though that’s not something we’d use.

I liked the opposing windows in the Sunflyer’s bedroom for pleasant cross breezes at night. The best thing about the Sunflyer 26FE’s bedroom is the separation/privacy provided by an actual door. No flimsy curtain here! This bedroom would be a comfortable retreat after a day on the road or exploring.

Bed

Overall take

The 2026 Winnebago Sunflyer 26FE lands in that sweet spot where it feels roomy without being unwieldy or difficult to drive or park. You get thoughtful amenities, smart use of space, and flexible sleeping options if that’s on your “must have” list. Add in price points that can come in well below MSRP with dealer/show pricing, and this coach can be a very compelling value for RV travelers.

You can see a video walkthrough below. [We think the video is incorrectly labeled as a 2027 Sunflyer 26FE.]

What do you think about Winnebago’s Class C? Tell us using the comments.

MORE CLASS C RV REVIEWS:

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A leadership change at Tiffin raises questions for luxury RV buyers

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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10
A leadership change at Tiffin raises questions for luxury RV buyers

When you buy a high-end motorhome, you’re not just buying a vehicle—you’re buying into a reputation. So when there’s a change at the top of a company like Tiffin, it’s going to catch people’s attention—especially folks who own one, or are thinking seriously about buying one.

That’s what’s happening now. Leigh Tiffin has stepped aside as president of Tiffin Motorhomes. Parent company THOR Industries says it was a personal decision and emphasizes that other members of the Tiffin family will remain involved.

If you’ve followed the RV industry for a while, you’ve heard that kind of reassurance before.

It doesn’t mean anything bad is about to happen. But it does mean this is one of those moments when it makes sense to slow down and pay attention.

Why this gets noticed by RVers

Tiffin has never been “just another brand.” For years, it built its name on solid construction, conservative design choices, and a reputation for taking care of owners when something went wrong. Plenty of people bought a Tiffin because they believed someone would pick up the phone—and actually help—if they needed it.

Leigh Tiffin mattered in that story because he wasn’t just an executive brought in from the outside. He was part of the family, and for many buyers that still means something. His departure doesn’t mean Tiffin suddenly becomes a different company, but it does remove one more visible link to the way the brand built its reputation in the first place.

THOR says that nothing about Tiffin’s direction is changing. That may well be true. Still, experienced RVers know that leadership changes are often where small shifts begin, even if they’re not obvious right away.

The THOR connection, in plain English

Tiffin became part of THOR Industries back in 2020. Since then, THOR has mostly taken a light touch, letting Tiffin operate as its own brand. From the outside, that’s seemed to work. New models have rolled out, production has continued, and the Tiffin name has stayed intact.

But when a family-owned company becomes part of a large public corporation, the long game changes. Decisions are no longer just about craftsmanship or tradition—they also have to make sense on a spreadsheet. That doesn’t make them wrong. It just makes them different.

A leadership change like this is often the point where buyers start wondering which voice will carry more weight going forward.

A pattern RVers have seen before

This isn’t the first time a well-known, family-founded RV company has gone through a transition like this. Over the years, several respected brands have been absorbed into larger corporate groups, usually with promises that nothing would really change.

In many cases, things did stay the same—at least for a while. Over time, though, decisions tended to become more standardized, more centralized, and less personal. That doesn’t automatically mean quality suffers, but it does mean the company slowly starts to feel different. For buyers who chose Tiffin precisely because it didn’t feel like a mass-market operation, that history is why leadership changes tend to raise eyebrows.

The questions buyers actually ask

If you’re shopping in the luxury end of the RV market, your concerns probably aren’t theoretical. They’re pretty simple:

  • Will the build quality be the same next year as it was last year?
  • Will warranty issues still be handled the way longtime owners expect?
  • Will parts, service, and factory support remain as accessible as they’ve been?
  • And when tough calls have to be made, who’s making them?

There’s no reason to think those answers suddenly change tomorrow. But most seasoned RVers would rather watch what happens than rely on assurances alone.

What’s worth watching

The real clues won’t come from press releases. They’ll show up quietly—in how dealers talk, in how warranty claims are handled, in whether owners still feel heard when problems come up, and in how visible the Tiffin family remains behind the scenes.

For now, there’s no reason to panic if you own a Tiffin or are considering one. The brand didn’t lose its identity overnight. But this is one of those moments where it makes sense to stay observant, ask questions, and give things a little time.

Because in the RV world, “business as usual” is something you verify by experience—not something you take on faith.

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Quartzsite’s secret weapon? It’s affordable, unconventional, and proud of it

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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Quartzsite’s secret weapon? It’s affordable, unconventional, and proud of it

When Travel + Leisure named Quartzsite, Arizona, the nation’s top snowbird destination, longtime winter regulars probably smiled and shrugged.

“Of course it did.”

Quartzsite didn’t win because it’s polished or picturesque. It won because it’s inexpensive, wide open, and happily odd—and because more snowbirds are deciding that matters more than palm-lined boulevards and resort amenities.

A small town that turns into a winter city

For most of the year, Quartzsite is a quiet desert outpost along I-10. Then winter arrives, and the population swells as RVers roll in from colder states. What looks like empty desert suddenly fills with rigs, solar panels tilt toward the sun, and dusty two-tracks become neighborhoods.

That seasonal transformation is exactly what caught national attention. Quartzsite isn’t pretending to be something it’s not. It simply makes room—lots of it—for people who want to winter cheaply and on their own terms.

The appeal starts with cost

At the heart of Quartzsite’s draw is affordability. The surrounding La Posa Long Term Visitor Areas allow RVers to stay for months at a fraction of what private RV parks charge elsewhere. There are no manicured lawns, no bundled amenities, and no pressure to sign up for extras you don’t want.

For snowbirds watching budgets—or just tired of paying resort prices—Quartzsite feels refreshingly honest. You pay a modest fee, pick your patch of desert, and live your life.

Quirky by design, not accident

Quartzsite snowbird destination
Quirky? Oh yeah. Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce via eventbright.com

Low cost alone wouldn’t explain Quartzsite’s pull if the town felt sterile or joyless. Instead, it leans into its personality.

Winter brings the massive gem and mineral shows, swap meets, impromptu potlucks, flea-market finds, and a general sense that rules are lighter out here. People build things, trade things, and help each other out. It’s not curated. It’s organic—and that’s the charm.

Quartzsite doesn’t smooth out its rough edges for visitors. It trusts that the right people will appreciate them.

Why snowbirds are choosing desert over resorts

Traditional snowbird destinations sell comfort and convenience. Quartzsite sells freedom.

You don’t come here for poolside cocktails or valet parking. You come because you want space, sunshine, and a community that values independence. For many RVers, especially those who boondock or live seasonally on fixed incomes, that tradeoff feels like a win.

The Travel + Leisure nod reflects a bigger shift. Snowbirds aren’t all chasing the same experience anymore. Increasingly, they’re choosing places that let them live simply, cheaply, and maybe even a little offbeat.

Proud of exactly what it is

Quartzsite hasn’t changed much to earn national recognition. If anything, the rest of the country has changed around it.

In a world where winter travel often means high prices and high polish, Quartzsite stands out by refusing both. Its secret weapon isn’t luxury—it’s the confidence to stay unconventional.

And for tens of thousands of snowbirds each winter, that’s exactly the point.

In a winter travel world full of upgrades and upsells, Quartzsite keeps winning by staying cheap, strange, and wide open.

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Great RV Accessories Newsletter #83

Cheri Sicard
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Great RV Accessories Newsletter #83

Greetings, fellow RVers!

Cameras, whether on their own or on your phone, can capture and preserve your magical RVing memories. But cameras also have practical reasons around an RV, and in this issue we explore those uses, among other great stuff we are liking. Read on!

Practical cameras

dash cams

Why all RVers should have a dash cam

Dash cams have been common in cars for years, but for RVers, they’re quietly becoming one of those upgrades that just makes sense. From campground backing mishaps to wildlife encounters on rural roads, dash cams can give RVers a clear record when things don’t go as planned. Learn what a dash cam can do for you and why you should have one.

Benefits of using a backup camera

Using a rearview (RV backup) camera on your recreational vehicle can offer several benefits, including enhancing safety, convenience, overall driving experience, and more. Discover all the backup camera benefits here.

best RV backup camera

The best camera system for your RV

Many RV owners struggle to find a reliable way to see what’s behind their rig. According to Jared Gillis of All About RVs, the WOLFBOX G900 TriPro rearview camera system brings a smart answer to the RV backup camera dilemma. It looks like a regular rearview mirror, mounts right where you’re used to glancing, and offers crisp, high-quality views for safer towing. It’s sleek, easy to use, and takes up almost no extra space—a rare combination in the world of RV camera tech. Watch a demo and get more details here.

outdoor winter photo of girl taking a photo with her cell phone camera

14 ways to make RV life easier using your cell phone’s camera

Are you planning to go RVing soon? Your cell phone camera can help so much! And not just for sending travel pictures to family and friends back home. Curious? Then, by all means, read on!

Our best-selling gadgets on Amazon this month (so far):

  1. Thetford RV Drain Valve Lubricant (as recommended by Dustin here)
  2. CRC 05103 QD Electronic Cleaner (as recommended by Dave here)
  3. This small, portable air purifier 
  4. This windshield cleaner tool 
  5. Balance and Fall Prevention Exercises for Seniors book

Other stuff we’re liking

Bluetti Elite 30 V2 portable power stationBLUETTI Elite 30 V2 portable power station—small, lightweight, and cute

By Cheri Sicard
This lightweight power station isn’t designed for serious, long-term boondocking or running large appliances. Instead, it’s ideal for charging phones, tablets, laptops, and other everyday electronics. I find myself using it most often outdoors—powering my laptop while working at a picnic table, running music, or providing lighting for an evening gathering at camp. It’s small, quiet, and incredibly convenient. Learn more about this small, lightweight power station and why it stands out, here.

Why you should use RV slide-out stabilizers and locks

Using slide-out stabilizers and locks for your RV is essential for maintaining stability, enhancing comfort, and ensuring safety while on the road. Whether you’re parked at a campsite or traveling to your next destination, these simple yet effective tools can make a significant difference in your RVing experience. Learn more.

bubble wrap RV window insulation

Keep the cold out with bubble wrap RV window insulation

This article demonstrates bubble wrap window insulation on a sticks-and-bricks home. However, this same inexpensive cold-weather hack can also work in RVs. You will be surprised by how easy it is. No tapes or adhesives are needed, and the bubble wrap takes seconds to remove when you no longer need it. Check out the easy how-to.

Even more recent gadget articles:

road trip bingoThe book (kinda) nook
Road Trip Bingo

This collection of 100 black and white Bingo pages is a must for your next road trip! Each page is unique, and both kids and adults will have fun searching for the objects they see along the way. Words and pictures are shown on the boards so that readers and non-readers can play together! Tear out the pages and pass them around, or give each person their own book to use. Great for short or long trips in the car. Go for BINGO or try for a blackout! Learn more or order here.

Rvtravel 300x250 Promo 10bTake an extra 10% off a GhostBed luxury RV mattress!
The GhostBed RV mattress is 10” deep, crafted with gel memory foam for coolness, has 3 layers of luxurious comfort and is perfectly sized for your RV! Ahhhh… Wake up relaxed and rejuvenated. RVtravel.com readers now get an EXTRA 10% OFF a GhostBed Luxury RV Mattress! CLICK HERE and use code RVTRAVEL10. Watch RVtravel.com’s Tony Barthel’s RV mattress review here.

Gadget quick takes

paper incense

Paper Incense

With just 1-3 minutes of use, OPTATUM Paper Incense quickly fills your space with a delightful and pleasant scent, creating an instantly relaxing atmosphere. The included tin case and tongs function as an incense holder, making it ready to use and portable.  Available in a variety of all-natural scents. We’ve never seen anything like this before; have you?

portable hand mixer

Portable hand and stand mixer, with bowl, dough hook, whisk and egg beater

Two mixers in one! Switch seamlessly between hand mixer and countertop mixer mode to tackle any recipe with ease. Whether you’re whipping up fluffy pancakes or kneading bread dough, this versatile kitchen gadget adapts to your needs. This is handy!

Gadget giggles

possum wall art

“Elegant” possum canvas wall art

Here’s a unique way to bring the true spirit of the outdoors into your RV! This is so funny, but we can’t help but love it. Imagine the faces of your guests entering your RV? Funny! Available in a size to fit any RV wall, big or small! Order here.

FINISHED READING THIS ISSUE? Great! Now you can move on over to today’s brand-new RV Daily Tips newsletter.

The wildest multi-tool gadget…
This wild, elusive, totally unique multi-tool carabiner is perfect to keep on your key ring or backpack. When someone asks you for a screwdriver, wrench, can opener, bottle opener, cord-cutter, or ruler, tell them Sasquatch can help! Every camper and outdoor enthusiast needs one of these! It’s cool, but it will also come in handy at the campsite! Learn more or order. (Hurry, before he disappears again!)

RVtravel.com All-Star Team

Click here for information about our staff and how to contact us.

RV Daily Tips. Thursday, February 12, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Thursday, February 12, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2839 • New issue every weekday
If you find this newsletter helpful, please consider supporting our staff’s work producing it 260 days of the year with a donation of your choice.

Today’s thought

“When you like a flower, you pluck it. But when you love a flower, you water it daily. One who understands this understands life.” —Buddha

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Plum Pudding Day!

On this day in history: 1963 – Construction begins on the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.

Remember: You don’t need to receive an email alert from us to read our newsletters. Just click any time of day directly to RVtravel.com. The latest issues will be right there for you.

Tip of the day
An RV tech’s 7 tips to diagnose RV furnace vibration

By Andrew Herrick
‘Tis the season for hot chocolate, road salting, jeez-it’s-not-even-March-yet?, and RV furnace vibration. If your furnace sounds like a toddler throwing a tantrum inside of a toolbox, it’s time to peek under the proverbial hood. A noisy furnace is calling for help.

You might need a professional RV technician, like me, to fix the problem—or you might not! Many causes of a vibrating or shaking RV furnace can be solved with a little DIY sleuthing and basic hand tools.

Article and video
The most common travel trailer buyer mistakes

In this video, Randi of Randi’s Adventures outlines the most common travel trailer buying mistakes consumers make. If you’re currently on the hunt for a new or used travel trailer, watching the video could save you money and aggravation.

Featured article
Top 8 dog trainer tips for RVing with dogs

Endless RVing’s MJ happens to also be a certified professional dog trainer. Here, she shares her top 8 tips for RVing with dogs. As a professional dog trainer, MJ works with dogs every day. She frequently sees things going on with dogs at campgrounds that she wishes were different. So she produced this video to help make camping and RV trips better and easier for both dogs and owners.

MirrorwiperClear your mirrors in seconds with this simple gadget
Keep your view clear, no matter what the road or weather. This retractable rearview mirror wiper wipes away rain, mud or road spray with a simple slide. Don’t wait for the mirror defrost to kick in—this is faster! Easy to use and built for travel. Check it out.

Ask Dave
Why does RV furnace light on second attempt but not first?

Read Dave’s troubleshooting tips here.

Donation request

NOW YOU KNOW: The first two counties in what is now Washington state, which were created in 1845 in the then-Oregon Territory, are named Lewis and Clark, after the explorers.

Reader poll
In good weather, do you sleep with your RV’s window(s) open or closed?

Respond here.

Weekendcampers

Quick tip
Successful RVing explained in 69 words

Wise advice to RVers: Slow down. Buy less RV than you think you need, travel fewer miles than you think you should, and leave wiggle room in your budget and schedule than seems necessary. Successful RVing rewards patience, not speed. Learn your systems, inspect often, fix small problems early, and never rush a drive day. The best RV experiences come from flexibility, not from sticking to a tight plan.

Website of the day

50 Romantic Valentine’s Day Recipes for the Perfect Romantic Meal
Okay, lovebirds. Listen up. Valentine’s Day is just a few meals away, so it’s the perfect time to stock up on ingredients you may need to make that special someone a very special meal!

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
The most accurate, most hilarious, card we’ve ever seen. If this doesn’t speak volumes…

And the survey says…

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

• The majority of readers, 53 percent, spend the night in commercial (or membership) RV parks most often.
• The highest percentage of voters, 32 percent, shop at Home Depot more than any other hardware store.
• 68 percent say they don’t care about celebrating their birthday—it’s just another day.

Recent poll: Do you listen to music while you drive?

Trivia

Nearly half (49%) of Americans say they plan to drink less alcohol in 2026, continuing a steady upward trend over the past three years. In 2023, just 34% planned to cut back, rising to 41% in 2024 and nearly half in 2025, according to NCSolutions. The shift is being led by younger adults, with Gen Z and Millennials far more likely than older generations to say they’re drinking less, reflecting broader changes tied to health awareness and lifestyle choices.

ForloversonlyFor Lovers Only

TO: RB
FROM: Schookems
“Happy Valentine’s Day!!!! 2025 was a rough year with my back surgery, but I APPRECIATE all the love and support you gave me. I know it wasn’t easy. I love you very much.”

TO: Jerry
FROM: Kerry
“ILYTIABx2!”

Readers’ pet of the day

Img 20260125 114458 750d1f017bb2dca8e6bd6021edb99585“We adopted Chico (Chihuahua, age 12) from the local animal shelter several months after our pug, Phoebe, died. They didn’t know how old he was or what happened to him before. He was so traumatized from his past life that he didn’t bark for two days and he had to be hand fed for awhile. Fortunately, all of that is in the past and he has been the best traveling companion over the last 11 1/2 years. Here he is enjoying the gulf beach at Port Aransas, Texas, during spring break 2025.” —Lisa Balty

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.

FREE IS GOOD! Visit Target for its Valentine’s Day Mix & Match Event. “Discover sweet extras for anyone on your list & enjoy giveaways.” February 14, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. While supplies last.

Leave here with a laugh

Today’s weather forecast across the nation
THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY

Visit Current National Radar Weather Map

Did you miss the latest RV Travel Newsletter? If so, read it here.
Oh, and if you missed the Latest News for RVers, make sure to catch up here.

If you shop at Amazon.com we’d appreciate you using this link. We get an itty bitty commission if you buy something, but they add up and help us pay our bills (most importantly our hard-working writers!). 

RVtravel.com All-Star Team

Click here for information about our staff and how to contact us.

WHY WE ASK FOR DONATIONS INSTEAD OF SELLING SUBSCRIPTIONS.

Our policy on using artificial intelligence.

Why does RV furnace light on second attempt but not first?

Dave Solberg
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0
Why does RV furnace light on second attempt but not first?

Dear Dave,
I have a Suburban SF30 furnace in my 2007 Allegro Bus. When I turn it on in the morning, the fan starts but it will not ignite. I turn it off. On the second attempt, it does ignite and produces heat as it should. It shuts off when it reaches the set temperature and restarts as the room cools. I have already replaced the sail switch and the limit switch, those being the easiest and cheapest. Now what? Control board? Igniter? Gas valve? That’s about everything, isn’t it? Thanks. —Mark, 2007 Allegro Bus

Dear Mark,
There could be a number of issues, and you have replaced the easiest components already. As with all troubleshooting of LP components, I start with making sure there is sufficient 12-volt power by testing it with the shoreline power plugged in. This means the converter will be putting out a constant 13.2 volts, at least, and takes the batteries out of the equation.

It may seem odd that batteries could be an issue with this, as it does start on the second attempt. However, it could be possible that something else was “cycling” at the same time such as the refrigerator or water heater, and the batteries did a deep dive only to rejuvenate. Plugging into shoreline power will isolate that. If it still happens, then we move to step two.

Make sure all other LP appliances are off to verify nothing else is trying to start or run while the furnace is trying to start. A weak LP regulator, dirty burner assembly, or even oil in the LP supply line (which can be cleaned) to the furnace could be an issue.

How the furnace operates

Let’s take a look at how the furnace is designed to operate. When the temperature falls below the thermostat setting, it creates a closed circuit and sends 12-volt power to the module board. The fan motor starts to purge anything inside the burner assembly and draws interior air in through the cold air return, which is blown over the outside of the burner assembly past the sail switch to the vents.

The airflow needs to be great enough to lift the sail switch, which also creates a closed circuit and sends 12-volt power to the module board. That opens the gas valve and starts the spark attempt.

Sail Switch
Sail switch

My first question would be, do you hear the gas valve click open and a spark attempt? If no, then I would readjust the sail switch. Sometimes it needs to be bent slightly. If you replaced it, just a tweak might help. It could be so minor of an adjustment that the second attempt gets it high enough. Stranger things have happened. If there is no gas valve click or spark attempt, it is either the sail switch or the module board.

Hairline crack in solder point of module board

One of the worst “gremlins” I have found is a hairline crack in solder points of the module board. A slight temperature change such as voltage being sent through heats the solder and it closes enough to work as designed. This is a VERY frustrating troubleshooting journey! I am not a big fan of swapping out parts as a module board can be diagnosed by an authorized furnace service provider. However, the test is usually more expensive than a new board!

If you are hearing the gas valve click open but no spark, check the ignitor for a cracked ceramic insulator, which would send the spark down the crack to ground. Once again, a temperature change could make a difference and the spark goes to the burner location.

If you hear the gas valve open and spark attempt, it could be low LP pressure, which could just be a dirty burner assembly or the LP regulator. If you are not experiencing any issues with other LP appliances, I doubt it is the regulator and I would suggest cleaning the burner assembly.

Are you sure it’s not lighting on first attempt?

One last question. Have you verified it does not actually light on the first attempt? If it starts to light but does not stay lit, it could be the thermocouple not sensing flame. That would shut down the operation. On the second attempt, a change in temperature would affect that, as well.

Make sure all other appliances are off, the unit is plugged in, and you have unrestricted airflow in the interior vents as well as the exterior vents. These outside vents draw air in, purge the interior burner assembly, and exhaust out.

Furnace Vents
Furnace vents

 You might also enjoy this from Dave 

Why does my RV’s furnace only ignite when I lift the sail switch?

Dear Dave,
I have determined that my RV’s furnace blower airflow is not sufficient to activate the sail switch. The batteries are new and charged, but it will only ignite when the sail switch is depressed manually. There appears to be sufficient air blowing out of vents. I can’t see any blockages in lines or hoses, and there does not appear to be much dust on impeller blades. I am stuck and would appreciate any guidance. Thanks in advance. —Anthony, 2016 Bigfoot 25FB

Read Dave’s answer.

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

Read more from Dave here. 

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An RV tech’s 7 tips to diagnose RV furnace vibration

Andrew Herrick
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An RV tech’s 7 tips to diagnose RV furnace vibration

‘Tis the season for hot chocolate, road salting, jeez-it’s-not-even-March-yet?, and RV furnace vibration. If your furnace sounds like a toddler throwing a tantrum inside of a toolbox, it’s time to peek under the proverbial hood. A noisy furnace is calling for help.

You might need a professional RV technician, like me, to fix the problem—or you might not! Many causes of a vibrating or shaking RV furnace can be solved with a little DIY sleuthing and basic hand tools.

Before we begin, here’s a bit of advice: Look AND touch! Turn off the power to the furnace before you begin, but once you’re in there, trust your nerve endings. They’ll find problems your eyes can’t see.

Why is my RV furnace vibrating and making noise?

Now, let me select my adjectives carefully. I’m specifically talking about mechanical RV furnace vibrations, usually caused when something is rotating off-balance or oscillating back and forth. This may manifest as a growl, tremor, or shudder. It’s usually quite loud, too, like a miniature earthquake.

However, if your furnace is making high-pitched whining, deep-throated whooshing, or grainy grinding sounds, you’re probably looking at a different problem, and this article may not help.

1. Broken fan vanes

RV forced-air furnaces have two fans: a combustion wheel and a blower wheel. These are axial fans with vanes instead of blades (aka “squirrel cage fans”), and when one of these vanes breaks, which is common for plastic blower wheels, it forces an imbalance about the rotating motor shaft. Not only can this be extraordinarily loud for such a minute failure, but this can also damage the motor bearings, which are non-serviceable.

2. Dirty fan vanes

A dirty fan can sound just as bad as a broken one! Dirt, debris, pet hair, and grime may collect on the vanes over time, especially if you have return registers close to the living area. If you smoke, have pets, or cook a lot in your RV, then this problem is a question of when, not if. A good annual cleaning will usually remedy the issue.

3. Critters inside the furnace

When you start a furnace with a mouse nest inside the blower wheel—well, you can imagine the kind of noise and damage that would do! This will typically require new fans, and it’s smartest to replace both. Squirrel cage fans aren’t very expensive ($20-$50).

Insects and rodents can also infiltrate your combustion chamber and heat exchanger. This can cause mechanical vibrations from turbulent airflow, detonation, and other air-to-fuel ratio faults.

Make sure your furnace vents are always covered with these furnace vent screens.

4. Interference with the fan

RV furnace fans are covered by a cowling. If the cowling is damaged, it could be grinding against a spinning fan. Also, the fan itself could be causing the interference, either because the retaining ring has broken and the fan is sliding along the motor shaft, or because the fan itself was manufactured off-center.

5. Loose furnace mounting

Most furnaces mount to the RV floor or sidewall with mounting screws. If these screws become loose, the furnace may jostle back and forth while running. This would typically show up as a low, throbbing hum or buzz instead of a high-pitched whine.

6. Vibrating ducts

Are you sure it’s the furnace itself making the noise? Again, if it’s a buzzing sound, it may be a ducting issue. If you have flexible ducts that connect to the furnace casing, you may need to tighten these connections. They are usually indented tab joints that rotate a quarter-turn to tight. If your furnace is hard-ducted (such as to an in-floor plenum*), then double-check the soft gasket between the furnace casing and the plenum. [*From Merriam-Webster: plenum: an air-filled space in a structure, especially one that receives air from a blower for distribution (as in a ventilation system).]

7. Improper air-to-fuel ratio

A bad air-to-fuel ratio can cause shuddering and shaking just from turbulent, inconsistent ignition. Diagnosing AFR (air-to-fuel ratio) problems is beyond the scope of this post, but you’ve been forewarned.

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The most common travel trailer buyer mistakes

Video Editor
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The most common travel trailer buyer mistakes

By Cheri Sicard
In the video below, Randi of Randi’s Adventures outlines the most common travel trailer buying mistakes consumers make. If you’re currently on the hunt for a new or used travel trailer, watching the video could save you money and aggravation.

Randi says that just five years ago, she, too, was overwhelmed by all of the choices available. Newbies don’t know what they don’t know, which is why she wanted to create this video to help others who are in the same position she was when she started her RV journey. She says she learned the “hard way,” but you don’t have to, as she shares the top six things she wished she had known before buying her first travel trailer.

Six most common travel trailer buying mistakes (according to Randi)

Be sure to watch the video as she goes into more detail on all of these points:

#1 Size matters: You must make sure that your new (or new to you) travel trailer is a place where you can be comfortable. Therefore, size matters. Randi and her husband, Tom, made this mistake and took a financial hit when they decided to replace their first travel trailer. It had seemed cozy and adequate. However, Tom was too tall to stand up inside, which is definitely NOT comfortable. Think of Goldilocks and the Three Bears when touring potential travel trailers to find the one that is just right for you.

Randi advises finding the smallest travel trailer that everyone in the family will feel comfortable in. Before you buy, make sure everyone who will use it tries it, can move in it, and can fit in the bed. Also, make sure that there is enough storage space (and cargo carrying capacity) for everything you want to carry.

#2 Towing capacity: It is critical that you know your vehicle’s towing capacity before you buy, as your travel trailer will not be useful if you are unable to move it safely.

#3 Layout and amenities: Because the overall space is so tiny, a travel trailer’s layout and amenities (or lack thereof) become vitally important. Randi covers the important questions to ask yourself before buying a travel trailer so you don’t make a costly mistake. There will likely be some give-and-take involved, so it’s important to evaluate these areas correctly.

#4 Tank sizes: The tank sizes will determine how long you can camp off the grid. So, unless you plan to always camp in RV parks, this can be an important point.

#5 Construction quality: The better constructed your travel trailer is, the longer it will last and the less maintenance it will need.

Now, if you are an RV newbie, you may or may not know how to recognize a quality RV build. No problem—Randi covers some basic tips in her video.

#6 Budget wisely: Travel trailers can be expensive. To avoid being tempted by shiny bells and whistles you probably won’t use often, Randi suggests having a budget in mind BEFORE you go shopping.

Do you have other tips for potential new travel trailer buyers? Be sure to share them in the comments below.

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In good weather, do you sleep with your RV’s window(s) open or closed?

RV Travel
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In good weather, do you sleep with your RV’s window(s) open or closed?

By Gail Marsh
Ah, the age-old question: In good weather, do you sleep with RV windows open or closed? Here are the pros and cons of each decision.

Which is best?

Here are some thoughts from our current RV neighbors:

• I like to smell fresh air coming in, unless an RV neighbor is smoking his stogie upwind from us.

• It’s interesting to listen to the nighttime sounds of nature, as long as it’s not the wild, human party variety.

• I always sleep better in a cooler temperature. That’s why the window stays open/closed.

• The nocturnal sounds coming in the window are far better than our noisy RV air conditioner.

• An open window lets in too much humidity/noise for me!

Your turn

So, what’s your opinion? Do you sleep with your RV windows open or closed? Tell us via the poll and then explain your reasons in the comments that follow.

Editor’s note: Remember, Gail is asking about good weather. Not in a hurricane, or even a hailstorm. Good weather! 

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

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Truck weigh station changes could benefit RVers

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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21
Truck weigh station changes could benefit RVers

If you’ve spent any time on interstates out West, you already know the drill. The sign flashes “all trucks must enter,” semis line up, and RVers roll past on the bypass lane without a second thought.

That familiar roadside setup—known in trucker slang as the “chicken coop”—may be starting to change. And while RVers are still almost always exempt from weigh stations, the shift could make highway travel a little smoother for everyone.

What’s changing at the chicken coop

South Carolina is among a growing number of states testing virtual weigh stations. Instead of forcing trucks to pull off the highway and roll across a scale, these systems use sensors embedded in the pavement to weigh vehicles as they travel at highway speed.

If a truck appears overweight, enforcement officers get an alert and can pull only that vehicle in for inspection. Trucks that pass the screening keep moving. This is different than some existing “weigh in motion” systems, where an overweight truck must pull into a weigh station. No “coop” needed for this weigh-in-motion system.

The goal is simple: fewer forced stops, less congestion, and better targeting of problem vehicles.

“But RVers don’t stop at weigh stations”

That’s true—most of the time.

Privately owned RVs are generally exempt from weigh stations, especially in Western states where signage and enforcement tend to be clear and consistent. Motorhomes and tow rigs without commercial markings usually cruise right by.

But RVers still feel the ripple effects:

  • Slowdowns as traffic approaches a weigh station
  • Sudden braking when truck lanes back up
  • Confusion when signage says “all vehicles over X pounds” or “all vehicles towing”

In parts of the Southeast and Northeast, RVers also report being waved into weigh stations—only to be waved right back out once officers confirm they’re not commercial. Even when exempt, that hesitation adds friction to traffic flow.

Why virtual weigh stations matter to RVers

Virtual systems don’t change the exemption rules for RVs. What they change is how traffic behaves around traditional choke points.

With fewer trucks required to exit the highway:

  • Backup lines shrink—or disappear altogether
  • Merging traffic becomes smoother
  • The sudden stop-and-go near weigh stations eases up

In other words, RVers may not be stopping at the chicken coop—but they could spend less time crawling past it.

A familiar model for RV travelers

RVers already see a version of this in California’s agricultural inspection stations. Most travelers slow, get waved through quickly, and move on. The interaction is brief and targeted, not a long queue.

Virtual weigh stations aim to bring that same efficiency to truck enforcement—without pulling traffic off the road.

What to watch next

South Carolina’s system is still new, but transportation agencies nationwide are watching closely. If the technology proves reliable, similar setups could spread to other freight-heavy corridors.

For RVers, the takeaway is simple: no new requirement to stop—but potentially fewer bottlenecks, smoother highway driving, and less chicken-coop drama along the way.

Sometimes the most noticeable travel improvements aren’t the ones aimed at RVs directly—but the ones that quietly make the road work better for everyone.

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A river overflowed, an RV park vanished, and a community grieved

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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3
A river overflowed, an RV park vanished, and a community grieved

By the time most campers along the Guadalupe River had turned in for the night, Blue Oak RV Park looked much as it had on countless holiday weekends before. RVs lined the riverbank. Families and longtime guests had settled in for the Fourth of July, expecting fireworks and an easy Texas Hill Country morning.

Then the river rose.

In the darkness before dawn, floodwaters surged through the small Kerrville park with terrifying speed. Lorena Guillén, who owned the park with her husband, Bob Canales, ran from RV to RV, pounding on doors and shouting warnings as water rushed in around her.

“It was so fast,” Guillén later said. “I was going from RV to RV, banging on doors, getting everybody out.”

Bob Canales. Photo: Lucioreports on Instagram.

Canales waded into the current beside her, pleading with campers to hand children to safety. “Please throw me your baby,” Guillén recalled him shouting. Seconds later, the family was gone.

By daylight, Blue Oak was gone too.

A place built on familiarity

Blue Oak wasn’t just a place to park an RV. It was a small riverfront community. Canales and Guillén lived nearby and also ran Howdy’s Bar and Chill, a neighboring restaurant and gathering spot where locals and travelers mingled. Many campers were repeat visitors. Faces were familiar. Names were remembered.

That closeness shaped what happened when the flood hit. Warnings weren’t shouted to strangers. They were calls to people the owners knew.

“Everyone was looking forward to a great weekend,” Canales said afterward. “Within about 45 minutes, they were wiped off the planet.”

The flood struck during one of the busiest weekends of the year, when riverfront RV parks are typically full. Heavy rains upstream sent the Guadalupe rising rapidly, leaving little time for evacuation once the water reached the park.

Devastating aftermath. Photo: Rachel Wolf via Fox News Digital.

RVs lifted from their pads. Vehicles floated past with headlights still on. Personal belongings—photos, keepsakes, entire homes on wheels—vanished into the current.

Several people tied to the park lost their lives that night, including members of a visiting family whose tragedy drew national attention. Others survived by clinging to trees or debris until the water receded.

Loss that went far beyond property

Among those killed was Julian Ryan, a longtime employee remembered for his kindness and love of music. Ryan died after breaking through a window to help his family escape as floodwaters surged in.

Julian Ryan lost his life trying to save his family. Photo: Pamela Baker via people.com

The loss hit the owners hard. “He was a great guy,” Canales said. “A really good singer. A good soul.”

In the days that followed, neighbors and strangers alike showed up to help. Donations poured in. Fundraisers were organized. Volunteers searched and cleaned up what little could be recovered.

But as the shock faded, another reality set in.

When rebuilding isn’t straightforward

As the cleanup began, Bob Canales and Lorena Guillén ran into another hard truth. Even with the outpouring of community support, the math didn’t work.

Many people assume federal disaster aid arrives quickly after a flood. For small, family-run businesses like Blue Oak, that often isn’t the case. The Small Business Administration usually offers help as loans, not grants, and decides who qualifies based on insurance coverage, property classification, and business structure.

For Canales and Guillén, the loss of the RV park meant the loss of their primary source of income. While they were able to reopen Howdy’s Bar and Chill, the neighboring bar and grill they also own, its revenue alone isn’t enough to carry the mortgage on the property.

In other words, even with customers coming back for meals and drinks, the numbers fall short.

Lorena Guillen says federal assistance doesn’t happen the way many think it does. Photo: Austin-American-Statesman.

Guillén has said the financial reality has been sobering. “People think help just shows up,” she said. “It doesn’t work that way.”

For RVers who favor small, independent parks, Blue Oak’s experience highlights a quiet vulnerability: Many mom-and-pop parks rely on seasonal occupancy to survive. When the park disappears, there’s often no secondary business strong enough to fill the gap.

What remains

Today, the stretch of riverbank where Blue Oak RV Park once stood is quiet. The RV pads are gone. The hookups are gone. So is the sense of certainty that comes from returning year after year to the same familiar place.

What remains are stories—of owners who ran into rising water to warn their guests, of an employee who gave his life trying to save others, of families who arrived for a holiday and never made it back home.

The Guadalupe River has returned to its banks. Whether Blue Oak RV Park can ever return remains uncertain.

Sources and background:

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