RV Travel Info

RV Travel -- Saving Fuel

Did you say save fuel! Everyone has a gimmick! Here's ours....SLOW DOWN!

When we got this motorhome, it was really fun to go 75mph and keep up with all the traffic on the highway. Now we keep it under 60 mph and gained 2 mpg. That's huge! We paid over 4 dollars a gallon the other day, and I am sure it will just keep going up. Bummer. I hope it doesn't keep people home this summer.

We also found a fuel additive that seems to be increasing our fuel mileage. Our friends Ken and Paula sell it. It's called Enviromax. Let us know if you want more information. Until later...Keep a light foot on that throttle!

Susan Cox and Dorothy Loll

RV Maintenance and Travel Safety
Maximizing Your RV Experience

http://www.Badges-R-Us.com
http://www.RVTips4U.com
http://www.LoCoRVCat.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com

RV Travel --- Appliance Maintenance

Many problems with RV appliances can be avoided by cleaning them every 6 months, or after being stored and not used. The easiest way to do this is with an air hose with PSI of approx 80# of pressure.

Refrigerators: ( Both Norcold Refrigerators and Dometic Refigerators ) Remove outside access cover and blow debris out of compartment. Remove the burner cover and blow out the burner and the flue. Check the orifice for debris and blow it off also. If the flue is extremely clogged, there is a special tool available to brush it out.

Propane RV Water Heater: Open outside access door. Blow out burner, exhaust, orifice, and burner tube

LP or Propane RV Furnace: Blow out intake and exhaust on outside your motorhome, travel trailer or fifith wheel. The orifice on the furnace is inaccessible without removing the entire furnace from the RV, and generally does not require maintenance. Do not stand in front of intake and exhaust when blowing out, as debris will fly out. It is important to clear the furnace after periods of non use, or storage. Small birds and insects have been known to build nests in them and restrict the exhaust.

Every month you should clean the intake filter on your roof air conditioner.

These are quick easy maintenance things to keep your RV experiences fun.

Susan Cox and Dorothy Loll

RV Maintenance and Travel Safety
Keeping You Safe and Informed on Your RV Journey

Many problems with RV appliances can be avoided by cleaning them every 6 months, or after being stored and not used. The easiest way to do this is with an air hose with PSI of approx 80# of pressure.

Refrigerators: ( Both Norcold Refrigerators and Dometic Refigerators ) Remove outside access cover and blow debris out of compartment. Remove the burner cover and blow out the burner and the flue. Check the orifice for debris and blow it off also. If the flue is extremely clogged, there is a special tool available to brush it out.

Propane RV Water Heater: Open outside access door. Blow out burner, exhaust, orifice, and burner tube

LP or Propane RV Furnace: Blow out intake and exhaust on outside your motorhome, travel trailer or fifith wheel. The orifice on the furnace is inaccessible without removing the entire furnace from the RV, and generally does not require maintenance. Do not stand in front of intake and exhaust when blowing out, as debris will fly out. It is important to clear the furnace after periods of non use, or storage. Small birds and insects have been known to build nests in them and restrict the exhaust.

Every month you should clean the intake filter on your roof air conditioner.

These are quick easy maintenance things to keep your RV experiences fun.

Susan Cox and Dorothy Loll

RV Maintenance and Travel Safety
Maximizing Your RV Experience

http://www.Badges-R-Us.com
http://www.RVTips4U.com
http://www.LoCoRVCat.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com

RV Travel -- GPS

GPS -- Don't RV without it!

I have heard all the arguments. I am personally a very good map reader, and really enjoy trying new routes and non interstate routes. Having said that, I love our GPS.

There are 5 types of GPS units available. 1. Handheld 2. removable vehicle mounted 3. Multifunctional vehicle mounted 4. mapping only vehicle mounted 5. computer or cell phone based.

For the RV user, there are some features to consider. The screen size should be large enough to easily glance at while driving. If you drive a motorhome, we suggest a removable, vehicle mounted unit. These are available with many options. You can even get them with MP3 or DVD players combined. It is really convenient to take it out of the motorhome and into your car for sightseeing and grocery shopping.

If you tow a trailer or 5th wheel, you might want one that stays in your truck. There are some really nice models that replace your dash radio and have a nice 5 to 7 inch pop out display.

There are also GPS units that work off your laptop or cell phone. Some cell phone carriers even offer it for an additional fee on your service.

You can find information at GPS4Fun.com or GPSNow.com, but I would suggest asking your neighbors at the RV rally or campground to see theirs before you buy one.

Dorothy Loll and Susan Cox
Maximizing Your RV Experience

Tips and Information for RVers:
http://www.RVTips4U.com

Find out what we're up to:
http://www.LoCoRVCat.com

Information and Products for RV Travelers:
http://www.RV-Travel-Diet-And-Exercise.com
http://www.TirePressureSafety.com
http://www.RVSafetyExpert.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com
http://www.Propane-Campfire.com
http://www.RockHunterSupply.com

RV Travel -- Backing up your RV

Backing a motorhome, travel trailer or fifth wheel is a team sport.

The key to good teamwork is good communication. Good communication begins before you start backing in. I recommend using 2-way radios. Using the radios eliminates yelling and allows much more information to be exchanged between driver and spotter. The driver won’t normally have to say much so the radio can be turned up and set down within reach.

If you don’t want to use radios, develop specific hand signals. To avoid confusion your signals should be distinct and deliberate. Use your whole arm instead of just waving your hand. The basic signals you will need are stop, left, right, straight back and distance. You should agree what left, right and straight mean too. Does the direction refer to which way the RV needs to go or which way the steering wheel needs to turn?

Both the RV driver and the spotter should walk the area before backing in. Discuss where you want the rig to be parked. And, unless you're an expert at backing, seeing the site from a different angle will help you visualize how your backing should proceed.

Remember these rules:
Both of you have a responsibility to watch for potential hazards in the rig's path. Look for overhead lines, tree limbs, ruts, large rocks, posts, etc. Two sets of eyes are better than one.
The spotter should be visible to the driver at all times and stay clear of the vehicle's path. Stop backing immediately if your spotter is not visible. This is a good idea even if you use radios.
The closer you are to disaster the more like your spotter is to forget your prearranged signals and begin waving frantically or speaking incoherently. If you do not understand a hand signal or what is said on your radio, STOP.

Take your time. Get out and look if you're not sure

Dorothy Loll and Susan Cox
Maximizing Your RV Experience

Tips and Information for RVers:
http://www.RVTips4U.com

Find out what we're up to:
http://www.LoCoRVCat.com

Information and Products for RV Travelers:
http://www.RV-Travel-Diet-And-Exercise.com
http://www.TirePressureSafety.com
http://www.RVSafetyExpert.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com
http://www.Propane-Campfire.com
http://www.RockHunterSupply.com

RV Travel -- Awning tips

Now that Summer is here, we all start using our awnings more. First, awnings are prone to mildew, dust and dirt in general. You can find a good awning cleaner at you RV dealer, and wash it with a wash brush when you wash your RV. Be careful, as some awning cleaners can streak or damage the paint and graphics on the side of your motorhome or trailer. Let it dry thoroughly before rolling it back up.

When setting up a manual awning, it can be adjusted so the rear is slightly lower than the front to allow for water roll off. Rain gets really heavy when it accumulates on the fabric and can tear or seriously damage the awning if it isn’t drained off. Most automatic awnings don’t allow for this adjustment, so it is wise to keep an eye on it if you have the awning out in heavy rain. Either roll it in and out to let the water off, or push up gently up on the fabric with a broom or wash brush to drain it.

Wind is another subject. Many automatic awnings have a sensor that rolls the awning in  when the wind reaches a certain velocity. If you have a manual awning, you should consider using some sort of awning tie downs to secure it. There are several systems of straps, anchors and springs available. Without tieing it down, you are really taking a chance of severe damage if a sudden gust of wind comes up.

Dorothy Loll and Susan Cox
Maximizing Your RV Experience

Tips and Information for RVers:
http://www.RVTips4U.com

Find out what we're up to:
http://www.LoCoRVCat.com

Information and Products for RV Travelers:
http://www.RV-Travel-Diet-And-Exercise.com
http://www.TirePressureSafety.com
http://www.RVSafetyExpert.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com
http://www.Propane-Campfire.com
http://www.RockHunterSupply.com

RV Travel -- Propane Safety

Have a Safe RV Summer. Remember to be Safe

Lots of you are using your RV this summer. Take time to educate your family about LP gas, or propane.  Look at this fun campfire that you can get.  It is even Forest Service approved!

Like all fuels, propane should be handled with care. When you use your motorhome, trailer, or even your home propane barbeque, you should know what to do in case of a leak or other emergency. Propane gas has a smell like rotten eggs or boiling cabbage and is heavier than air. When checking for leaks, be aware it can gather in low-lying areas.
Ignition of propane gas within an enclosed space can result in an explosion. It can be ignited by many sources including pilot lights, open flames, smoking materials, electric sparks, and static electricity.

>Familiarize yourself with all safety precaution notices posted in your RV.

>Know where your shut off valve is, and make sure everyone traveling in the RV knows how to shut it off.

>If you think you smell propane, get everyone out of the rig and close the supply valve on the propane containers.

>Have everyone leave the RV and get medical attention if anyone shows any symptoms  (headaches, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, impaired judgment, loss of manual dexterity).

>When using a propane stove or oven, open a vent or window and turn on the range hood fan.

>Never use stove burners or ovens to heat your RV. They are designed for attended cooking only.

>Don't use portable propane camping equipment in your RV (e.g. camp stoves, barbecues, lanterns,portable propane campfires, or radiant heaters).

>Before entering a gas station, turn off all burners, pilot lights, appliances (refrigerator)and automatic ignition devices.

>Transport propane containers in the secured upright position.

>Never use, store, or transport propane cylinders or liquid fuels in the passenger space or living area of your RV.

>Don't transport or use propane containers that are damaged, show signs of corrosion, have been exposed to fire, or appear to be leaking.

Dorothy Loll and Susan Cox
Maximizing Your RV Experience

Tips and Information for RVers:
http://www.RVTips4U.com

Find out what we're up to:
http://www.LoCoRVCat.com

Information and Products for RV Travelers:
http://www.RV-Travel-Diet-And-Exercise.com
http://www.TirePressureSafety.com
http://www.RVSafetyExpert.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com
http://www.Propane-Campfire.com
http://www.RockHunterSupply.com

RV Travel -- Buying a Used RV

Buying a used Motorhome or Trailer can be intimidating and scary. There are lots of places to find used RVs. Besides dealers, you can find them online, in the classified, parked in someones yard, or even good ole Uncle Bob. Be careful when you buy used. We found a great book that shows many of the things you should look for. Used RV Buyers Guide will show you some of the things to look for.

We bought our motorhome used, and are very happy with it. It is a 40' diesel pusher with 4 slide outs. We checked it out thoroughly, and tested all the systems. We also drove it about 100 miles. We were very fortunate with our choice. Make an informed decision.

Susan Cox and Dorothy Loll

RV Maintenance and Travel Safety
Maximizing Your RV Experience

http://www.LoCoRVCat.com
http://www.RVTips4U.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com
http://rvtravel.nicheinfocenter.com

RV Travel -- Dometic Refrigerator Recall

The Dometic Refrigerator Recall is enormous, and it is a true RV Safety issue. You will need the model and serial number of your refrigerator, and go to DometicUSA to see if your RV refrigerator is affected. I have been involved in the RV industry for 30 years, and have worked in service and warranty at both the dealer level, and the manufacturer level.

If you find that you have a refrigerator that falls under this recall, it is important that you find a dealer or qualified RV technician to perform the work. Sadly, the problem that  you may experience is the repair centers do not want to do the work. It seems that Dometic does not allow enough reimbursement to the repair centers. It actually costs the dealer or repair center time and money to take care of a problem that they did not cause. Most dealers are doing the repair because they value the RV owners and their customers in general.

Luckily, our Dometic refrigerator is not part of the recall. If yours is, get it fixed! While you are at the dealership or repair center, do a little more business with them if you can. They are doing the recall because they value you as a customer, and the RV industry as a whole. If you need a new refrigerator, consider a Norcold. They have a proven record of good customer service and accepting responsibility for their problems. If you want to contact Dometic with an opinion:

Dometic
P.O. Box 490
Elkhart, IN 46515
Email:
CustomerSupportCenter@DometicUSA.com

  Stay safe, and feel free to comment on this post.

Susan Cox and Dorothy Loll

RV Maintenance and Travel Safety
Maximizing Your RV Experience

http://www.LoCoRVCat.com
http://www.RVTips4U.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com
http://rvtravel.nicheinfocenter.com

Cold Weather RV Camping

We arrived in central Oregon and found a beautiful spot in Sun River. It is spectacular with the mountains all around. I guess most people wouldn't consider this cold. It is in the 70's during the day, but it drops to the low 30's and even the 20's at night. I had to learn to disconnect my fresh water hose in the evening and make sure the water bay heater was on. The first morning I had to let the faucet drip for a while before it got flow. I am sure that it would not be fun to have any broken pipes in here. Our motorhome is fairly easy to heat. We use a ceramic heater and the propane furnace. I don't know how the people in the tents stay warm!

Later...

Susan Cox and Dorothy Loll

RV Maintenance and Travel Safety
Maximizing Your RV Experience

http://www.LoCoRVCat.com
http://www.RVTips4U.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com
http://rvtravel.nicheinfocenter.com

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The Adventure Begins -- The Motorhome won't start!

Every day is a learning experience when you own a recreational vehicle. Our motorhome is awesome, and we have been having  a great time with it since December. A quick recap--- we have been in the Mesa, Arizona area for 10 years. We have made the decision to work and travel in the motorhome full time. Our home is leased, and we have moved on from our jobs. The last 5 months have been spent making all these things happen. We have been living in the motorhome and learning all we can about it before we actually got too far from our comfort zone, and all the people we know that can fix what goes wrong.

In March, we had all the chassis maintenance things done at Massey Diesel in Phoenix. Tom did the oil changes on engine and generator, greased and lubed everything, found and changed a broken shock, and generally got our new home ready to hit the road. His extensive checklist is awesome.

Okay, so yesterday was our departure day from the "comfort zone". We got up and left Mesa about 4:30 am., and don't have any plans on returning to Arizona for 6 month or so. We are headed to Oregon first, so we decided to go up I-5 in California, and could be through Los Angeles by 1pm and avoid some of the traffic. Great Plan!! Then came our first real motorhome challenge. We stopped at a rest area just outside of Indio. We walked around a bit to get the kinks out and got ready to leave. THE MOTORHOME WOULDN'T START!!!  Talk about feeling helpless. Now what? Call Tom. Now I get to crawl under the motorhome and tap the starter with a hammer to see if it has a flat spot, and see if power is getting to it.   This is the picture of me under the motorhome pretending I have a clue what to do. We have 12.7 volts to the starter and it still won't start.

Now I am on the phone with Workhorse. The person on the other end of the phone is Donna. She says they will call a tow truck and get it to a service facility. This is my worst nightmare! I have been in the RV repair business for a long time, and there is never a good thing about putting a 40 foot motorhome on the "hook". I suggest that maybe she could put me on the phone with a technician for some trouble shooting. Donna puts me on hold and comes back with a checklist of troubleshooting ideas. We started in the dash area. Of course, she wants me to push buttons that aren't really there. When Workhorse builds a chassis, they send it to the motorhome Manufacturer (Mandalay), and they get to build a house around it. Since no two manufacturer will put the buttons in the same place on the dash, Donna has no idea where the button could be. I do...it doesn't exist. Okay, anyway, we went through the entire process, and ended up in the outside fuse panel. Yahoo! The fuse to the starter relay is blown. The bad news is, we don't have one. It is a great big 40amp blade fuse. I guess this is why we tow a car. Dorothy got in the car and went to find a fuse. Donna called ahead and knew they had them at the next truck stop.

New fuse..We are back on the road. Thanks to Tom at Massey and Donna at Workhorse, and no tow truck for us. We drove through LA at 4:30 with just a few white knuckle moments, and slept soundly at the first Flying J we came to.

Our adventure begins

Until Later...

Susan Cox and Dorothy Loll

RV Maintenance and Travel Safety
Maximizing Your RV Experience

http://www.LoCoRVCat.com
http://www.RVTips4U.com
http://www.RVPressurePro.com
http://rvtravel.nicheinfocenter.com

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