Issue 2641
Today’s thought
“Others have seen what is and asked why. I have seen what could be and asked why not. ” ―
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Odometer Day! How exciting! 🙄
On this day in history: 1941 – Konrad Zuse presents the Z3, the world’s first working programmable, fully automatic computer, in Berlin.
Tip of the day
What the letters and numbers mean in RV model designations
By Tony Barthel
What do RV model designations mean? What exactly is a 1905S, 212RBE or a 22MLSWE? Or take the Flagstaff Micro Lite 25DK, for example. What does DK mean, and is it 25 feet long? Do these numbers have any meaning or are they completely nonsense? We have the answers.
Here is a guide to some of the more commonly used abbreviations in RV model designations. Know that RV companies may not be consistent about these designations. Sometimes an RV will have a feature and not have that noted in the model description. If you’re confused, well, me too. Read on.
Ask Dave
RV furnace lights on second attempt with flames shooting out exhaust
Dear Dave,
I am having problems with my Suburban furnace. Just before we closed our travel trailer up for winter storage, it started igniting late. In other words, it would start the fan, click to ignite, but not ignite. It would then try again and ignite with a boom and flame shooting out the exhaust outside of the trailer…. Read the rest of Tom’s question and Dave’s advice.
In the RV shop with Dustin
How to keep hydraulic leveling jacks and slide-outs working
Here is general information about why it’s important to maintain your hydraulic leveling jacks. If you have hydraulic leveling jacks or a slide-out system, you want to periodically check the hydraulic fluid level in your reservoir. Here’s why.
Article and video
Three of the best, most versatile RV care products and how to use them
By Cheri Sicard
Want to keep your RV looking its best for years to come? It’s possible without spending a fortune on dozens of different products. Our host from RV with Tito DIY has learned what works and what doesn’t. In this article and video, he shares the top three essential RV care products that have stood the test of time.
The latest news for RVers
- National parks face devastating cuts, with majority in jeopardy
- RV product prices may soon skyrocket
- California’s gas prices could hit $8 gallon, more states could follow
- Major U.S. tire manufacturers warn tariffs will drive up tire prices
- Would you pay $995 for a VIP pass to test drive 125 motorhomes?
To read more recent news, click here.
Featured article
RVers share new “beefs”
By Gail Marsh
A few nights ago at our Florida campground, folks around the campfire shared some of their most recent “beefs” or annoyances they’ve experienced. I’m not talking about barbeque here. These beefs were complaints that I had not heard before. While they may not be new to you, when these RVers shared these new beefs, I was genuinely surprised!
Rust and/or corrosion affecting parts of your RV? This will help!
CorrosionX stops rust and corrosion with a unique coating that sticks to metal like a magnet to resist displacement by friction or pressure and lubricates under extreme loads and high temperatures—perfect for RVs. It penetrates faster and further to break free rusted nuts, bolts and fittings within minutes, and it’s safe on electronics and won’t interfere with circuits. Learn more or order.
Reader poll
If you suddenly became filthy rich, would you buy a new high-end RV?
Quick tip
Keep the gray water tank “fresh”
Gray water tanks that accept water from the sink and shower need little maintenance but will occasionally need a deodorizer (use the same one you use for the black water tank). Enzyme waste digesters can be used for the gray tank and have the added benefit of keeping the p-traps clear under the sink and shower. —From Trailers & Fifth Wheels Made Easy
Website of the day
Certified Dark-Sky Parks
This list of certified dark-sky parks is brought to you by the National Parks Conservation Association. (Lots of other great stuff on this site too!) Happy stargazing!
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Oh, come on! It’s ONLY six pounds… That won’t put your rig overweight, will it? And, hey, if it does and you get stranded, well, you definitely won’t go hungry!!
Trivia
The popular TV show “American Idol” is considered responsible for teaching Americans how to text message. When the show first aired in 2002, “American Idol” featured audience participation by call-in voting. If they wanted to vote for a contestant to win, they’d call the “American Idol” phone number and input that contestant’s individual number code. In the second season of the show, they introduced text message voting, provided you had AT&T (a sponsor) cell service, that is. “American Idol” was largely responsible for getting Americans to learn how to text back then in 2003, with more than 7.5 million text messages sent in to the show in just two seasons alone.
Readers’ pets of the day
“Rocco (4 months) is a Neapolitan Mastiff, and Shelby (3 years) is an English Mastiff. This was Rocco’s first RV trip, and he did great! They both love the recliners and enjoy adventuring together!” —Apryll Groelinger
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.
Leave here with a laugh
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY
Visit Current National Radar Weather Map
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RVtravel.com All-Star Team
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Rocco and Shelby are adorable.
I would buy a class a diesel pusher!
Regarding e-bikes on “non-motorized” trails (since there wasn’t a place to put new comments):
One might have to check state laws for the definition of “non-motorized.”
I do a lot of hiking on nearby Minnesota state lands, all of which prohibit motorized vehicles. Last year I started noticing people in these areas on e-bikes. I asked the area DNR manager and she informed me that a relatively new Minnesota law excludes e-bikes of 750W or less as “motorized.” I had her send me the statute number and yep, there it was.
All the e-bikes I’ve seen are by far > 750W, but who is going to check and enforce? Once the barn door is opened…
I have always understood that an engine typically refers to a device that converts energy (like chemical energy from fuel) into mechanical motion, often involving combustion. A motor, on the other hand, generally refers to a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. Therefore, by definition, the “no motorized vehicles allowed” definitely refers to E-Bikes.
I like the new comment format
Merriam-Webster Dictionary:
MOTOR
“a rotating machine that transforms electrical energy into mechanical energy”
Yes, ebikes are motorized vehicles.
By that definition, I could ride my “engine” cycle down the trail because it’s powered by gasoline.
Rocco and Shelby are Absolutely Precious Sweet doggies 🥰🐶
Thank you for another great issue, Emily and Diane! Have a great week and safe travels.