America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2893 • New issue every weekday
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Today’s thought
“The purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think, but to give you questions to think upon.” ―
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Shrimp Scampi Day!
On this day in history: 2004 – The final Oldsmobile is built in Lansing, Michigan, ending 107 years of vehicle production.
Tip of the day
I replumbed my RV sink with flex pipe. Genius or totally unhinged?
By Russ and Tiña De Maris
When we write a piece, we’re typically in agreement. Not so today—the distaff side thinks I’ve lost my mind. In fact, she thinks I’m so far off the mark that she tried to nix the whole story. But, hang on. “I” figured this was something readers needed to hear about. Flexible drain pipe in your RV—a brilliant stroke? Or a disaster in the making? Well, here’s our story.
RV review
2027 Thor Quantum LX19 Class C review: 21 feet, no slide
Short Class C motorhomes are hard to find. The 2027 Thor Motor Coach Quantum LX19 is thus a rarity. It packs the basics into a 21-foot coach with no slide, which makes it easy to drive, park and fit into almost all campsites. For downsizing RVers or minimalists who find even the most basic RV amenities a relative luxury, this one might be right on the money.
You love Uno, but have you played the Wilderness edition yet?
Take your favorite card game to a new level! It’s just like Uno (so you won’t have to learn any new rules) but this version should stay in the camper or car at all times for every outdoor adventure. And if someone you know needs a gift, this is it! Learn more or order here. Have fun playing!
In the RV shop with Dustin
Two additional uses for EternaBond tape on your RV
A while ago, I shared reasons why I don’t recommend utilizing EternaBond tape on your RV roof (outside of using it as a patch). But today, I want to share two additional ways I do recommend using EternaBond tape on your RV.
Article and video
How much lithium battery power does an RV need?
Picking the right lithium battery bank can feel harder than the install itself. For many RV owners, the goal is simple: enough power for the way they camp, without paying for far more than they need. That is why a simple set of amp-hour ranges helps. Instead of getting lost in battery math, RV owners can match their camping style to a practical starting point. Here, our favorite certified RV inspector, Duane of the RV Inspection and Care YouTube channel, breaks it all down.
WEDNESDAY WISDOM: If the week were a road trip, Wednesday would be the scenic overlook where you stop, stretch, and realize you’re making good time.
Featured article
Everything you need to know about RV insurance – You may not be in good hands
By Dave Solberg
It’s something we don’t like talking about and hope we never need—insurance for our RV. It may sound simple: Just call your home or auto coverage company and tell them what you bought and they should be able to put together a policy, right? It’s not that easy, and if you don’t get a policy designed for your type of RVing, you will pay too much and probably not have the coverage you need. Learn all about RV insurance here.
Bumper snicker
Ask Dave
I can’t find the make or model of my RV furnace or how to access it
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!)
Reader poll
When washing your hands, do you wet your hands first or apply soap first?
IT’S AMAZING AND TRUE! View and participate in more than 2,000 of our previous polls!
Quick tip
How to wash out your water heater
A lot of people overlook washing out their water heaters a minimum of once a year. It’s simple. Suburban water heaters usually have an anode rod. It takes a 1-1/16 socket to remove it. Your Atwood water heater only needs a plug, no anode rod. Also, after you clean your water heater do not turn it on immediately. Contrary to popular belief, turning on an empty RV water heater will not result in the “motherboard” circuit burning up. However, turning it on electric (120 volts AC) will burn up the heating element. Turning it on gas (propane), while not a good idea, will not result in any immediate damage.
Make sure water comes out of the pressure relief valve after refilling, assuring water is in the tank, and you can turn it on immediately. Otherwise, give it about a half-hour before turning it on. If your faucets are not running well after cleaning, remove the screens on each faucet and clean them. —Thanks to Steve K. for the tip from the RVtravel.com RV Advice Facebook page. And thanks to Dave Helgeson for the updated info.
On this day last year…
- Ask Dave: What can I do to reduce blind spots when driving my older Class C?
- Article & video: Must-have RV pet gear and services for stress-free travel
- Featured article: How to use the onX app for finding “secret” moochdocking locations
Website of the day
The Most Hippie Town in All 50 States
Still living in the ’70s? Well, good, because these towns are, too! See how many of these hippie towns you’ve been to.
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
In case you or someone you know has been a little forgetful lately… And note that they’re extra strong.
Trivia
While Americans love their beer, the Czechs love it more. According to data from the Japanese beer brand Kirin, people in Czechoslovakia consumed 39.3 gallons of beer per capita in 2024. In 2023, Americans consumed a mere 17.3 gallons per capita. Overall, in 2024, global beer consumption totaled 194.12 million kiloliters in 2024, which would fill about 547 billion standard 12-ounce bottles.
MORE FACTS! How many steps does it take to walk 1 mile? Generally speaking, you can count on 2,000 steps to equal one mile. But, depending upon your length of stride, it might take 2,500 steps to equal 1 mile.
Readers’ pets of the day
“Camping and getting afternoon sun in the motorhome.” —Gloria Sluder
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!
Leave here with a laugh
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
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RVtravel.com All-Star Staff
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On the flex fittings for the sink…I am a retired plumber. In my opinion the stuff should have never been invented. I have seen more cases of it causing clogs and leaks because all of those corrugations can catch and hold food particles which in turn can start to smell and create clogs. I have to vote a strong NO to that plumbing job.
RE: On This Day In History…
I’m still mourning the loss of Oldsmobile.
I’ve owned 3 and I can say they were the finest cars ever made. Maybe that was the problem?
My very first car was a 1962 Oldsmobile F-85.
Mine was a 1956 Olds 2 door hardtop. Following that was a 1967 Olds 442; 4-speed, black, 2 door sedan. I Miss the 442!
Plus because of the Oldsmobile Toronado front-wheel-drive transaxle. GMC was able to build one of the best motorhomes made.
My first car was a 1956 DeSoto Adventurer. It was a high performance luxury car. 341 Hemi, 2 four barrel carbs and dual point distributor.
DeSoto was Chrysler’s top of the line car.
The 3 cats on the bed shows how comfortable the cats are in the RV. It reminds me that napping is always a good afternoon activity.
Love your daily email and I tell all my camping friends to check it out. I realize ads are necessary to keep the lights on but these video adds that start playing uninvited and unstoppable are a pain, especially when they play while I’m trying to watch the RV review.
Download and use the Duck Duck Go browser. Fixes that across all websites.
RE: Quick Tip on refilling the water heater. I open the pressure relief valve, but do not wait for water to come out. I close it when the tank sounds around 1/2 to 3/4 full. Most water heaters work better if there is an air pocket left at the top of the tank. Certainly it eliminates ‘drippy’ pressure relief valves.
How many steps does it take to walk 1 mile? As I age, it’s now up to 5,280 steps.
I thought it, but wasn’t going to admit it.
Beautiful kitty cats basking in the afternoon sun in the motor-home, look like they have found the best place to cuddle up. And as I say to take a “sun bath” and live the best life. Keep on camping.
To be so relaxed in the middle of the day and stretch out on the bed. They look so comfy!!