Category Archives: RV Information

The RV Extension Cord Guide

10 Wednesday Jul 2024

Posted by in RV Information, RV Newbie, RV Safety, Tips & Tricks

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Most RV campsites out there have a power pedestal not too far from the RV pad. This makes it easy to plug in using only the power cord that comes with your RV. That said, there are times when the power pedestal is set far away from the pad, and in these cases, an RV extension cord might be necessary.  

If you’re in a spot where an RV extension cord is required, there are a few things you should know.  

Choosing an RV Extension Cord

If you need to extend the length of your RV power cord, avoid using a typical household extension cord. These cords cannot handle the amperage an RV requires, will quickly become overheated, and could even melt or catch fire. 

Instead, you will need to purchase an RV extension cord—a cord made specifically for use with an RV. Here’s what you should look for as you shop. 

Amperage 

First, you must make sure you purchase a cord with the correct amperage. If your RV requires 30 amps or 50 amps, buy a corresponding RV extension cord. To determine which amperage you need, take a look at the RV plug. If it has three prongs, it is a 30-amp cord, while four-prong plugs indicate the RV is a 50-amp rig.  

Length 

Choosing an RV extension cord length can be tricky. Obviously, you want a cord that reaches where you need it to, but it is also important that the cord is not overly long.

This is because long cable runs can create dangerous and damaging voltage drops. It goes without saying that this isn’t good, so go as short as you can while still giving yourself enough slack to reach the outlet, and generally avoid extension cords that are more than 50 feet long.  

Durability 

Finally, you will, of course, want to purchase something that will last a long time. Make sure to read reviews before buying an RV extension cord to ensure you get a high-quality product that will last a long time.  

The Best RV Extension Cords

Still not sure what to buy? Our favorite option is the Camco Power Grip cord with a locking end. We love that the end locks into place and that the plug comes with a handle, making it easy to unplug the cord correctly. We’ve also found that these cords hold up well, even when used out in the elements.  

Using an RV Extension Cord

Okay, now that you have an extension cord picked out, it’s time to use it. Here are our top tips for using your RV extension cord safely.  

Use a Surge Protector 

First and foremost, it is important that you always use an RV surge protector when plugging your RV into any power outlet. This applies when using an RV extension cord and when you are not. 

Either way, plug the surge protector into the outlet and then plug the RV power cord or extension cord into the surge protector.  

Don’t Link Cords 

We mentioned the dangerous voltage drops that can occur in long runs above. This becomes especially likely when extension cords are linked. For this reason, we don’t recommend plugging one RV extension cord into the next. 

If you must have a longer extension cord than the one you already own, buy a new, longer one rather than a short one to link to your current cord.  

Avoid Water 

We all know that water and electricity do not mix. Even though RV extension cords are made for outdoor usage, keeping the connection points up off the ground and out of the water is a good idea. 

A small stool can be used to raise the connection and keep it out of puddles in case of rain. If you happen to have extra leveling blocks lying around, they also work well for this purpose.  

Pull at the Plug 

It can be tempting to unplug your RV extension cord by pulling on the cord itself. Don’t. Make sure you pull on the plug head itself. Pulling on the cord can cause internal damage to the wires inside the extension cord, which could actually be dangerous.

There you have it, everything you need to know about RV extension cords. Why not invest in an extension today so you’re ready the next time you need one? 

May contain affiliate links.  

About the Author: Chelsea G.

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Tim C. ~ “Patrick answered quickly, ensured we were safe, and immediately started working on options to get us safely on the road again! Incredible Service!”

How to Shop for Replacement RV Furniture

10 Wednesday Jul 2024

Posted by in RV Information, RV Newbie, Tips & Tricks

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If your RV is getting on in age, you might be dealing with some pretty worn-out furniture. This is fine, of course—if you’re okay with it, that is—but if you’d prefer something more stylish or just more comfortable, it might be time to consider buying new RV furniture.

The good news? This is totally doable! And with the tips below, you’re sure to get through replacing RV furniture without a hitch.

Measure First

The very first thing you will want to do? Measure the space where you want your new furniture to go. I recommend measuring more than once (just to be sure your numbers are accurate) and then writing all of the measurements down.

You can measure with your old furniture still in place, but in some cases, it might be easier to take measurements with the old furniture moved out of the way.

Watch Out for Weight

While the furniture put into the RV at the factory is taken into account when calculating the CCC, the furniture you purchase could very well weigh more than the stock furniture. In this case, you will want to figure out how much more the new furniture weighs and subtract that number from the total CCC when determining how much you can pack in the rig.

It’s also important to keep in mind that very heavy furniture should not be placed in a slide, as too much weight will damage the systems that put the slide in and out.

Keep Safety in Mind

Every RV out there is limited by its cargo-carrying capacity (CCC). This is the amount of weight the trailer or motorhome can safely carry.

Obviously, it is important to keep safety in mind when replacing your RV furniture. Watching the weight of whatever you put in is one way to do this. It’s also a good idea to keep seatbelt safety in mind.

If you drive a motorhome and people need to buckle up in the back of the RV, you will want to make sure you replace the couch with something that can be used safely with seatbelts. For this reason, we recommend buying from a reputable RV-specific furniture brand such as FlexSteel if you plan to replace your motorhome couch and want to continue using the seatbelts.

Look for Multi-Purpose Pieces

If you’ve spent much time at all in your RV, you know that every item you bring in needs to serve a purpose. If it can serve more than one purpose, all the better, especially if its secondary purpose is to give you more storage space.

Fortunately, there are a huge number of multi-functional furniture pieces on the market. Couches that turn into beds, ottomans that serve as storage boxes, and tables that can be moved around and used for different purposes all come to mind. Searching for these multi-purpose pieces can and will pay off in the long term!

Shop for Disassembled Furniture

The thing about RV doors is that they really aren’t very wide. This can make fitting furniture through them darn near impossible. What is the best way around this problem? Taking furniture through the door in pieces.

Disassembling the old furniture before you carry it outside is much, much easier than trying to squish a whole couch through a tiny door. Likewise, buying disassembled pieces from places like IKEA and assembling them in your RV will save you a lot of trouble.

Bolt Everything Down

Once you have your new RV furniture all set up in its place, it’s time to make sure it doesn’t go anywhere, no matter how bumpy the roads may get. Use “L” brackets and sturdy bolts to secure each piece of furniture to the floor or wall, ensuring it won’t go flying as you’re driving down the highway.

With these tips for replacing RV furniture, you should have no trouble at all outfitting your camper with some comfy new pieces. What will you buy first?

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

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Craig S. FL~ “I am extremely pleased with the service I received. Your representative kept in constant contact with me to make sure everything was going as planned. I never felt like I was in this by myself. Thank you!!!!”

Should You Rent Out Your RV?

12 Wednesday Jun 2024

Posted by in RV Information, RV Newbie, Tips & Tricks, We Love It. We Live It.

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Many RV owners simply cannot take their RVs out as much as they would like. Family and work commitments make it impossible to head out every weekend, and weekdays are generally completely out of the question. 

Some RV owners don’t like seeing their rig sitting unused week after week, so they rent their RVs out to others. This is a great option for some, but it definitely isn’t for everybody.  

Should you rent out your RV? Only you can answer this question. Here are some pros and cons for you to consider so you can make that call properly. 

The Pros of Renting Out Your RV 

First, let’s take a look at some of the benefits that come along with renting out your RV.  

Make Some Extra Money 

The most obvious pro and the main reason many RV owners are choosing the RV rental route? The money, of course. While most people who rent out their RVs report making only enough to cover the costs of RV ownership, some make enough to make renting RVs their full-time job.  

This will all depend on your area, the type of RV you have, and the amount of time you’re willing to spend renting it. Really, though, even just covering the costs of maintenance, storage, insurance, and the RV payment should be enough to make renting your RV worthwhile.  

Share Your Love of RVing 

Another major benefit of renting your RV out is that it gives you an opportunity to share your love of RVing with others. Many people who rent are heading out on their first-ever RV trip, and as the RV owner, you get to be a part of making their experience a great one. 

Have a customer who has already been on multiple RV trips? In this case, you can talk RVing with another enthusiast and share tips and tricks.  

Stay on Top of RV Maintenance 

A lesser-known pro of renting your RV out is that it encourages you to stay on top of RV maintenance. Cleaning, resealing, and repairing your RV are certainly not the most glamorous parts of RV life, but they are necessary. If you rent your RV out, you will have more reason to make sure these necessary tasks get done so your RV lasts for years to come.  

The Cons of Renting Out Your RV 

What about the drawbacks of renting your RV out to others? There are a few of those, too, and they should be considered.  

Wear and Tear 

When you rent your RV out when you aren’t using it yourself, it is used much more than it might have been otherwise. This means more wear and tear on everything in and on the RV. Your tires will need to be replaced sooner, your furniture will likely become worn more quickly, and the appliances might need repairing earlier than they would have otherwise. 

You have to decide if the money you make from renting out your RV is enough to cover this extra wear and tear.  

Time Commitment 

While you won’t be heading out for a full camping weekend whenever your customers are, renting your RV out is still a time commitment. You have to be available for pick-up and drop-off, as well as the walkthroughs accompanying those. You must also make time to clean the RV and perform necessary repairs between rentals. 

Before you jump in, make sure you actually have enough time to rent out your RV and everything that goes with it.  

Potential for Damage 

Last but not least, we do have to mention the possibility that your RV could be damaged while out on a rental trip. Yes, most renters tend to be very respectful, but accidents happen, and sometimes these accidents can result in a damaged RV.  

Rent through a reputable platform such as Outdoorsy to ensure you have good episodic insurance coverage in case any accidental interior or exterior damage happens while your RV is on the road. Requiring that your renters purchase Coach-Net roadside assistance (a perk that’s automatically added to all Outdoorsy bookings) can also bring you peace of mind and help in situations where renters need extra assistance.  

There you have it, the top pros and cons of renting your RV out to others. Should you rent out your RV? Consider the benefits and drawbacks listed above and then decide for yourself.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

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Craig S. FL~ “I am extremely pleased with the service I received. Your representative kept in constant contact with me to make sure everything was going as planned. I never felt like I was in this by myself. Thank you!!!!”

RV Air Conditioning Troubleshooting Tips

12 Wednesday Jun 2024

Posted by in RV Information, RV Newbie, RV Safety, Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

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Your RV air conditioner is crucial for camping in comfort during the summer months. Unfortunately, these units need repairs once in a while. If your RV AC is giving you problems, try the troubleshooting tips below to get it back up and running.

Lack of Power

If you don’t have any power at all to the AC, there are a couple of simple things you should try before you panic.

Plug-In

First, check your RV plug. Make sure it is plugged all the way into the outlet and there is no damage to the cable going into the RV.

Flip the Breaker

You’ll also want to check the breakers both at the power pole and in the RV breaker box. If a breaker is flipped, switch it back.

Warm Air

Having issues with warm air coming from your RV AC? Here are a couple of things to look at as you try to narrow down the issue.

Check the Capacitors

A capacitor could very well be the culprit. Make sure you discharge your capacitors completely using a discharge tool before testing each one with a multimeter. A bad capacitor is something you can probably replace on your own.

Check the Compressor

It’s also possible for a compressor to cause this issue. Test your compressor with the multimeter. If it is your problem, you’ll want to replace the entire AC unit rather than attempting to replace the part.

Weak Airflow

Warm air is bad, but so is weak airflow. Here’s what you need to test if you don’t have enough air coming from your RV air conditioner.

Look for Freezing

A frozen RV AC will put out very little air. To fix, turn the air conditioner to fan-only mode and run it on high until the ice in the unit melts. If the air conditioner continues to freeze up, you may need to clean the coils and filter.

Look for Clogs

Another problem to look for? Clogged coils or a super dirty air filter. Clean both and then test the unit to see if the airflow gets stronger.

Cover Cracks and Holes

Use a flashlight to take a peek at your ductwork. See a place where air could be escaping? Cover it with metal tape and/or styrofoam to see if that improves things.

Check the Fan

Obviously, it could be that the fan is having issues. Try cleaning and oiling the fan. If this doesn’t work, it might be time for a fan motor replacement.

Excessive Cycling

If your compressor is cycling on and off often, you’re probably dealing with a unit that doesn’t cool properly. Here are some steps to take.

Check the Capacitors

The capacitors will need to be tested in this case as well. Just make sure you discharge them first. If you find that one is bad, replace it.

Look for Ice

Once again, freezing could be the problem. If you find ice in your AC, use the tips above to defrost it and then clean everything to ensure the problem doesn’t return.

Have Parts Professionally Tested

Unfortunately, the other likely surprises are a bad thermostat or a bad control board. It’s best to call a pro in to fix these things.

Dripping Water

Sometimes water will drip from an RV air conditioner. This is never a good thing, but can have a few different causes.

Clean the Drain Pan

A clogged drain pan doesn’t allow water to run where it is supposed to. Instead, it will sometimes run into your rig. Fix this by cleaning the pan and removing the clogs.

Clean the Coils

A unit that freezes up will send bits of water to the floor as the frozen coils thaw out. Clean the coils and filter to try to prevent freezing.

Tighten Things Up

If your AC mounting bolts are loose, they will not hold the gasket snugly in place. This will allow rainwater to find its way under the gasket and into the RV. Tighten the bolts to fix the issue.

Smelly Air Conditioner

RV air conditioners can develop a cave-like smell if the coils or filter become too dirty. Wash both of these things to get rid of any musty smells that may be bothering you while running the AC.

Weird Noises

Pretty much every RV air conditioner out there is going to make some noise. That said, if your AC starts making a new weird noise, you will want to investigate.

Check the Fan

First, check to see if anything is in the way of the fan. Clean the fan and add a bit of oil. If this doesn’t fix your problem and you’re certain the fan is making the noise, you’re probably looking at replacing the fan entirely.

Get Rid of Vibrations

Vibrations on the roof will definitely cause some strange noises inside your RV. Make sure the AC shroud is bolted down tight so it can’t vibrate on the rooftop.

Test the Compressor and Capacitors

While the fan is usually the culprit when it comes to weird AC noises, the compressor or capacitors can make sounds if they are going out. Test both to make sure they aren’t your problem, making sure to discharge the capacitors beforehand.

There you have it, everything you need to know about RV air conditioner troubleshooting. Now you can solve your AC problems and camp in comfort all summer long!

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

James L. ~ “Outstanding. Agents make or break the company. They definitely made it with me!!! OUTSTANDING service. Precise answers. Coach-Net turned a stressful situation into a non-stressful learning experience.”

5 Tips For Finding Affordable RV Campgrounds

12 Wednesday Jun 2024

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The cost of everything—from rent to groceries and beyond—seems to have skyrocketed, and the price of camping has gone up right along with those things. This is a major bummer for those of us who prefer to pick affordable RV campgrounds to keep travel costs low.

The good news? While they are few and far between these days, it is still possible to find affordable RV campgrounds. Here are my tips for doing just that.

Look Into Memberships and Passes

First, I highly recommend looking into the many different camping memberships and passes out there. Some allow you to camp in various places with no additional fees. Others provide a steep discount on camping spots. Some are state- or region-specific, and some cover the entire country.

Depending on your camping style and how often you can get out, camping passes can be an excellent investment.

Some of my favorite camping passes include:

  • Thousand Trails — We personally have a big expensive membership due to our full-timing lifestyle, but even just the zone camping pass can be extremely helpful if you camp often in a particular region.
  • Passport America — This is a cheap membership that gets you deep, deep discounts on certain campgrounds.
  • Boondockers Welcome and Harvest Hosts — Both of these are inexpensive memberships that give you access to campsites on privately owned land. Some have hookups, some don’t, but all provide unique experiences.
  • State Park Passes — We’ve had a few different state park passes over the years. Many of these come with a camping discount of some sort. The best one is probably the New Mexico State Park Pass.

Get Set Up for Dry Camping

Dry camping can save a ton of money. Many boondocking spots across the country are totally free (you can find them on Campendium), but there are also dry camping campgrounds that provide some amenities while remaining super cheap.

The thing is, you will want to be set up for dry camping before you dive into it. Having a generator and/or solar panel setup is crucial, and things like water bladders and “blue boys” are incredibly helpful.

Stay Longer

Many private RV parks charge less per night for long-term stays. If you are full-time or on an extended trip and need affordable RV campgrounds to make your travel affordable, try staying in one spot for a month or more and taking advantage of monthly rates.

Try Workamping

Another thing you can do if you’re full-time or are out camping for a while? Seek out working opportunities! Most “workamping” positions include a campsite, and most offer some sort of pay as well, so you can actually get paid to camp!

Search for Government-Run Parks

Depending on where you are, government-run parks are often less expensive than privately owned parks. Instead of RV resorts or parks run by big companies, look for the following:

  • State Parks
  • City Parks
  • County Parks
  • Forest Service Campgrounds
  • Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Campgrounds
  • Army Corps of Engineers (COE) Campgrounds

State park camping fees vary wildly from one state to the next, but are often very affordable. Likewise, county and city park camping fees range from totally free to $75+ per night. Forest Service, BLM, and Army COE parks are almost always super affordable RV campgrounds, and some are even completely free, but you might have to sacrifice some amenities in exchange for that low price.

To find affordable RV campgrounds run by these government agencies, try using the search features on Campendium or RV Life Campgrounds—both are useful tools that make it easy to search for campsites you can afford.

There you have it, five ways to find affordable RV campgrounds. Try putting some of these suggestions to use this summer to see how much you can save!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

From time-to-time, we have guest bloggers post on our site. The views, opinions and positions expressed within these guest posts are those of the authors. 

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10 Things RVers Should Know About RV Sewer Hose Supports

08 Wednesday May 2024

Posted by in RV Information, RV Newbie, Tips & Tricks

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RV sewer hose supports fall into the category of camping accessories that you don’t really need necessarily, but after a trip or two, you might find that you want one. These nifty pieces of camping gear are more useful than you might imagine, and once you invest in an RV sewer hose support, you aren’t likely to go back.

What is an RV Sewer Hose Support?

Not sure what an RV sewer hose support even is? Basically, this is a set of stilts that hold your RV sewer hose up off the ground. They also place the hose at a slight angle, helping water drain through the hose and into the in-ground sewer hookup. Most of these supports can be adjusted to suit the amount of space between your rig and the sewer connection point.

Why You Want RV Sewer Hose Supports

Wondering why you might want to start shopping for an RV sewer hose support? Here are four reasons to consider buying one to add to your collection of camping gear.

Helps Your Tanks Drain More Effectively

One of the most obvious benefits of an RV sewer hose support is that it can help ensure your RV tanks drain properly. This is especially helpful if you find yourself parked very close to the sewer hookup point, as it prevents a coiled hose that water might have trouble getting through.

It can also be helpful if the sewer connection sticks up out of the ground. This is because the support can create a gentle angle that sends water directly into the raised dump point, keeping it from sagging to the ground before reaching the top of the pipe.

Prevents Buildup in Your Sewer Hose

Generally speaking, your tanks will drain eventually, even without the ramp provided by an RV sewer hose support. That said, you will almost certainly end up with water sitting in the hose if the hose is not angled to keep it moving. This is gross because it allows debris in the water to stick to the sides of the hose, leaving you with a stinky build up inside your sewer hose that can be hard to wash out.

Removes a Potential Tripping Hazard

An excessively long sewer hose that isn’t held up off the ground is a tripping hazard. Not only that, but if someone does happen to trip over your sewer hose and pull it out of place, the result could potentially be a disgusting mess. RV sewer hose supports remove this possibility by making the hose much more visible.

Some Campgrounds Require Them

Lastly, we have to point out that some campgrounds actually require campers to use RV sewer hose supports. In some cases this is a city-wide law; in other cases it is simply campground policy.

Either way, you will need to abide by the rule if you come across a campground that has it in place. Why not just buy the support ramp now to save yourself from needing to find one in a hurry down the line?

What to Look For in an RV Sewer Hose Support

Okay, so clearly you’re going to want to invest in an RV sewer hose support. But what are you looking for as you shop for this camping accessory?

Here’s what we’d look out for:

  • Length — You want to ensure you buy a support that is long enough to stretch the entire length of your sewer hose plus any add-on pieces you might end up using. Keep in mind, it is possible to push the support pieces closer together to create a shorter ramp.
  • Weight — As with all RV accessories, it is a good idea to choose an RV sewer hose support that is relatively lightweight. After all, you don’t want to add to the overall weight of your loaded RV too much.
  • Portability — Some RV sewer hose support ramps fold together like a slinky and come with a handle to both hold them closed and make carrying easy. Others nest together for easy storage. Whatever you buy, make sure it’s easy to carry and easy to store in an RV storage bay.
  • Durability — Of course, you’ll also want to make sure whatever you buy is durable. Read reviews to make sure you aren’t purchasing a product that will break easily.

So, there you have it! While you might not think you need an RV sewer hose support, once you try one, you’ll wonder how you ever camped without it. These handy gadgets are more than just a luxury – they can make your RVing experience much smoother and more pleasant. Trust me, once you start using an RV sewer hose support, you’ll never look back!

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Gordon W. ~ “It’s the best service you can ask for! They were genuinely concerned about my problem and called back a few times to ensure I received good service!”

Slide-Out Maintenance

06 Monday May 2024

Posted by in RV Information, Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

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One of the challenges of writing any technical content for RVers is being able to provide information that is specific to the individual type of RV one has. Since there have been over 100 different RV companies over the years and even more models within those individual companies, it becomes difficult to provide information on every individual scenario without being too generic or too specific to one type which means the information does not pertain to a wide majority.

And so it is with slide room maintenance.  Slide rooms were introduced in travel trailers and 5th Wheels as far back as the 1970s and the “Power Slide” was invented and introduced in 1990 by Newmar.  Most other companies joined the slide-out craze a few years later with a variety of new mechanisms such as HWH, Power Gear, and others.  Since then there have been both hydraulic and electric mechanisms from companies such as Kwikee, RBW Industries, and more recently, Lippert Components Inc (LCI) which has purchased Power Gear, Kwikee, BAL Accu-Slide, and others.

Hydraulic Mechanisms

Typically a hydraulic slide-out mechanism uses a pump that that is often shared with the hydraulic leveling jacks if equipped.  It has a fluid reservoir and pumps the fluid through the lines and cylinders to move the room in and out. There is little maintenance required of the pump other than making sure the fluid level is checked and topped off with the recommended hydraulic fluid.

The actual mechanisms vary between manufacturers, HWH uses two telescoping rams with a synchronizing rod.  HWH recommends periodically cleaning the rams with WD 40 and wiping off the excess. They also recommend extending and retracting the room twice a month to keep the seals lubricated.  One note: run the room all the way to the extended and retracted position, do not stop part-way!

Lippert Components Inc (LCI) uses an inner and outer assembly with a drive tube.  They also recommend extending and retracting the room twice a month to keep the seals lubricated and to visually inspect all components for debris, dirt buildup, and bent parts.  If you experience a squeaking noise during operation apply a coat of lightweight oil and wipe off the excess and DO NOT USE GREASE!

Several manufacturers have used the RWB Industries motor (owned by Dexter) and a proprietary gear-driven mechanism such as Newmar, National RV, and others.  Since there are so many different mechanisms used, it’s a safe bet to run the unit a couple of times a year, visually inspect the components, and verify what lubricant your manufacturer recommends to clean and lubricate the gears and arms.

Electric Mechanism

Smaller, lightweight rooms use a more inexpensive electric motor, especially models that do not have hydraulic leveling jacks that could utilize the jack motor.  Once again there are several options such as the cable slides (BAL Acu-slide), Schwintek with small motors in the sidewall and a gear-driven track, or a standard mechanism with an electric motor.

The electric motor requires no maintenance other than having 12-volt power to the unit.  The cable systems do require a periodic visual inspection to make sure the cable is not sagging, loose, or frayed.

 Cable Slideout

Cable Slideout

It is also a good idea to visually inspect all components for debris or obstructions and clean out any tracks with fluid film, a spray product available at O’Reilly Auto Parts.  This is a rust inhibitor and will not damage rubber seals.  Make sure to wipe off any excess spray.

Schwintek

Schwintek Slideout

The Schwintek slideout mechanism can develop a grinding or squeaking noise and it is recommended to spray CRC Power Lube with PTFE on the rails as well as the gibbs and motor coupler.  These can be found by pulling back the rubber seal outside at the rails.

In-Wall Slide-Out

Slide Room and Seal Maintenance

Most slide rooms or the “Box” are fairly similar, the outer wall cut out of or built from the same material as the sidewall, laminated side/top/bottom panels.  These do not require much maintenance other than making sure there is no debris on the top of the slide room when you bring it back in!  Some manufacturers have an awning over the slide room to keep sticks and other debris from falling on the top which would tear the bulb seal during retraction.  If you do not have an awning cover, you need to clean off the top every time you retract the room!

Slide Out Maintenance

LEVEL THE COACH BEFORE RETRACTING THE SLIDE!  I’m amazed at how many companies do not have this as a standard operating procedure?  RV chassis are not rock solid, they will bend and twist in an unlevel situation which causes the sidewall to twist which creates additional pressure or binding as the square box is trying to go out of an unsquared opening.

All slideout rooms have a weather strip or seal around the opening of the sidewall.  Some use a two-part rubber gasket or seal applied both inside the rig and outside.  Others use a two-sided bulb seal that is applied to the flange of the sidewall.  In either case, it’s a good idea to condition the seal with an approved product such as the ProtectAll SlideOut Rubber Seal Treatment or ProtectAll All Surface Care.

Slide-Out Lubricant

Both products have UV protection that will help keep the rubber seal from weather checking and reduce friction.

Visually inspect the underside of the slide room both inside and out.  Look for obstructions or any signs of wear and tear.  Most use a roller or glide underneath, make sure there is no damage to the mechanism or the floor.

And finally, make sure you look for items around the side of the room inside such as lawn chairs or other items that might have been placed or stored when packing up the camper.  You can not believe what a mess a boxed wine container makes when the room is extended!

About the author:

Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles, authored an RV handbook reference guide and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair, and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

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Aww Shucks!

Ken S. ~ “I’ve had to use Coach-Net Roadside twice since signing up. Your response is fast and you follow up to make sure the towing company showed up during the window quoted. It’s great!”

Stay Warm This Winter With This Easy Furnace Maintenance

10 Wednesday Jan 2024

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Winter is upon us and even if you are one of the lucky RVers that goes South for the winter, temperatures can get below freezing and you want the RV furnace to be in tip-top shape. That means doing a little preventative maintenance.

Most RVers take the furnace for granted as there are typically no filters or lengthy ductwork like the residential models. We just turn the thermostat to the desired temperature and wait for the heat to kick on.

Forced air furnaces such as the Suburban and Dometic brands have either ducted vents going through the rig, or direct airflow coming from the unit. They all operate fairly similarly and should have some basic maintenance performed occasionally.

How The Furnace Works

When the temperature drops to the set point on the thermostat, 12-volt power is sent to the module board on the furnace which starts the fan or blower. It is important to have fully charged house batteries or plugged into shoreline power as the blower motor will start but the gas valve will not open unless there is sufficient power to provide airflow, more on that later.

The fan draws outside air in through the vent purging the burner chamber and exhausting it outside so no outside air enters the rig. The fan also draws interior air through the cold air return and routes it over the burner assembly, past the sail switch, and out to the vents. This air-lifts the sail switch until it gets to the “closed” point, which sends 12-volt power to the module board letting it know there is sufficient airflow and to open the gas valve. Low batteries or insufficient airflow will not lift the switch to the closed position and therefore the furnace will not light. However, it will continue to blow cold air until the battery goes completely dead.

Once there is sufficient airflow and the sail switch gets to the closed position, the gas valve opens and the spark ignitor lights the furnace.

It is important to inspect and clean the exterior intake and exhaust vents so there is no obstruction. Mud daubers and spiders like the smell of propane and can clog up the vent and restrict airflow. There are even aftermarket screens available that will help keep them out without restricting airflow.

Make sure all vents and ductwork are clear and there is good airflow. Do not cover or close vents inside the rig as this will reduce airflow and keep the sail switch from rising or even increase the temperature at the furnace which would create the limit switch to shut off the furnace. Make sure any ductwork weaving through cabinetry or under the sofa is not kinked or obstructed.

If you see excessive black soot on the outside exhaust vent, it could be a sign of improper combustion due to low LP pressure, improper air-to-LP mixture, a dirty burner chamber, or other issues. It is a good idea to have the furnace cleaned and inspected periodically by a certified RV Service Center.

Supplemental Heat

Keep in mind that your RV furnace can only provide a limited amount of heat and trying to heat the entire rig as well as the lower compartments in basement models may not be possible. Using a supplemental heating system helps customize the heat zones and extends the LP life as well. Catalytic heaters such as the Camco Olympian or Mr. Heater allow you to drop the overall temperature down to 60 degrees or lower and just heat the portion of the RV you are using such as the living room during the day or bedroom at night. No need to keep the entire rig at 70 degrees.

These heaters are safe and produce very little moisture or carbon monoxide. They can be portable using the small LP cylinder or hard plumbed to an existing LP system.

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair, and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Alfred S. ~ “I’ve Been A Member Since 2001 and I’ve NEVER Had Any Problems!”

What You Need To Know About Towing Capacity

06 Wednesday Dec 2023

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One of the most popular questions I get is “What can my truck actually tow?” It ranks just below my refrigerator isn’t cooling, my batteries are dead, my roof air conditioner isn’t running efficiently, and my slide room doesn’t work. OK, so it’s in my top five but I do get it asked quite often!

In the past, we could just look up towing capacity in the Trailer Life towing guide or the truck manufacturer towing guide. As long as we knew the cab configuration, bed length, and engine size, we could get the towing capacity at the tip of our fingers.

Then The Math Changed!

Somewhere around 2010, Toyota came out with the first half-ton truck that had a towing capacity of 10,000 lbs while all the others were at 5-7,000 lbs. My 2002 Silverado had a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs which meant I did not have a very large selection of trailers that I could tow. Truck manufacturers scrambled to reclassify towing capacity using the new math Toyota had developed. My 2002 had a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 7,000 lbs and the towing capacity was 5,000 lbs which meant I had a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 12,000 lbs. The new math is taking GCWR and subtracting the Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) which is an empty truck and adding a 150 lb driver to determine towing capacity. This shifts payload weight from the tow vehicle to the trailer towing weight. Here is an example; my 2016 has a GVWR of 11,500 lbs and has a dry weight of 5,730 lbs. This means I could theoretically put 5,770 lbs of cargo into this truck which would include any passengers and cargo which is a lot of “stuff” I can bring. So with the new math, we take the 5,730 lbs of dry weight, add a 150 lb driver and it comes to 5,880 lbs, subtract it from the 11,300 lb GVWR and we have 5,620 lbs of extra weight that can be added or shifted to the trailer towing capacity. In the past, you could load your tow truck up to GVWR and then tow the published towing capacity.

What Is The Truth?

It’s hard to wade through all the postings, forums, and blogs when it comes to actual towing capacity, especially with AI and the fact that anyone can write or post anything on the internet without verification or authenticity. What I do know is that I have been working with the RV Safety and Education Foundation (RVSEF) for the past 25 years and trust them to be the authority when it comes to weights and towing. They have been weighing rigs for over 3 decades and working with tire manufacturers, RV manufacturers, and original equipment manufacturers (OEM) to develop weight information and even convinced the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) to require weight stickers on all units.

There still are towing guides published by Woodall’s, Good Sam, and the truck manufacturers however, they are estimates at best and do not take into account payload, cargo, and passengers. In fact, the towing capacity listed is for a standard truck with a driver of 150 lbs! According to RVSEF you need to know the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of your truck as well as the tongue weight that is on the back axle. Other factors include the GVWR of the truck as well as the GAWR of the rear wheels.

This all means taking the truck and trailer to a CAT Scale and getting it weighed which is not an easy thing to do especially if you are still in the shopping stage. To start with, I went to the RVSEF site that has several towing guides here.

The challenge I had was finding the correct specifications for my truck to look up the information in the various guides. I found the GVWR and GAWR ratings on the data label located on the driver door pillar.

I found the engine size on the label in the engine compartment that stated it was the 5.3L and it is a double door standard bed model. However what I could not find was the axle ratio and the GCWR. I went online and a Chevy source indicated the eight digit of the VIN indicated axle ratio and stated it was the 3.08 axle ratio and had a much lower trailer towing capacity as well as GCWR! To verify, I asked the Executive Director at RVSEF and he stated that most online sources do not take into account all the options and model variations. He stated the true information is found on the options label inside the glove compartment.

Going through all these three digit codes and matching the one to the RVSEF guide I found mine had the 3.42 and according to the owner’s manual, had a trailer towing capacity of 9,200 lbs and a GCWR of 15,000 lbs which I found on line and confirmed in my owner’s manual. Next I needed to weigh both the truck and trailer to make sure I wasn’t overloaded in any of the weight ratings.

Here Are The Numbers That Are Important

GCWR – Gross Combined Weight Rating

The weight of the truck with everyone and everything that will be travel plug the weight of the trailer with all cargo must not exceed the GCWR.

GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

The weight of the truck with all passengers and cargo can not exceed the GVWR. Also, the total weight of the trailer loaded with all cargo and water must not exceed the trailer GVWR.

GAWR – Gross Axle Weight Rating

Both axles have a GAWR and must not exceed the poste GAWR for front and rear with all passengers, cargo, and the trailer connected to determine how much weight the tongue of the trailer is applying.

Tongue Weight

Drive off the scale, disconnect the trailer, and weigh the truck or tow vehicle with all passengers and cargo. Subtract this from the original GAWR of the rear axle and this will tell you how much weight is on the hitch which should be somewhere between 10-15% on trailers.

Here were the ratings I found for my truck with a 1996 Salem trailer connected.

Hitched To Trailer

AxleGAWRActual AWR
Front5,000 lbs.3,300 lbs.
Rear7,050 lbs.3,240 lbs.

Trailer weight – 4,340 lbs.
Combined weight, truck and trailer – 10,880 lbs.

Unhitched truck

Front – 3,400 lbs.

Rear – 2,580 lbs.

Hitch weight or payload from trailer – 660 lbs.

The scale has three platforms which allows you to put the front axle on the first pad, the drive or rear axle on the second pad, and the trailer on the third which provides individual weights. This confirms that you are not over any of the weight ratings and can safely tow.

I also took the comprehensive RVSEF Matching Truck To Trailer Training Course here.

I would recommend anyone towing a trailer take the course and they are offering a discount for RV Lifestyle and Repair and Coach-Net members by using this code: RVLRTOW24

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Ray M. ~ “We’ve had a service plan with Coach-Net with 2 different RVs and we’re so glad we do.  Twice in less than a month, we’ve called with tire issues.  Both times your representative helped us to get back on the road in a short amount of time.  Thank you from two happy campers.”

Amazing Reasons To Try Off-Season Camping

06 Wednesday Dec 2023

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Cold season is here, and in many places, this means the slow travel season has hit as well. For some RVers, this is the time when the RV gets winterized and put into storage, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Off-season travel is totally doable, and in some cases, it even has some perks that you just don’t get when traveling during peak season.

Want to keep the RV adventures going this winter? Here are a few reasons why we think off-season travel is awesome, and why winter RVing is just as amazing as RVing during the summer.

Snag Better Campsites

Have a place you’ve been dying to visit but you can never seem to get into? Have a certain section of your favorite campground that you’d like to stay in but can never seem to grab? Off-season is the time to do just that.

During the slow season, the crowds have cleared out, meaning you have a much better chance of snagging those coveted campsites for yourself without all the hassle of keeping track of booking windows or arriving early.

Avoid Crowds

Fewer visitors in a place means fewer crowds. Traffic jams in touristy spots will be basically non-existent when you’re enjoying off-season travel, and you’ll find that fighting large crowds while walking through shopping areas or popular attractions is unnecessary this time around. You’ll also find there are fewer lines to wait in, and getting to the front of a crowd to read plaques or see a specific piece of art will be a cinch.

Take Advantage of Discounts

One thing we absolutely love about off-season travel? The discounts and lower rates that come along with it. You see, when the hordes of tourists leave, many attractions and campgrounds lower their rates or offer special discounts that they wouldn’t offer during peak season, in order to encourage people to visit. This means you’ll likely be able to stay in a campsite for less money and see all the things you want to see without breaking the bank.

Stay Longer

Cheaper campsites make it a whole lot easier to extend your stay in a place, and since you won’t have to fight for a site, you should be able to stick around as long as you like. Provided you don’t have obligations back at home, we encourage you to take the opportunity to stay in one place longer and really immerse yourself in the culture and community of the place.

Have Unique Experiences

Off-season travel is extra cool because it presents opportunities to have some unique experiences that you’d never get to have when a place is packed with other tourists.

Visiting when there are fewer crowds makes it possible to really connect with the locals. This leads to suggestions from the locals, meaning you’re more likely to try things that are a bit more off the beaten path. Additionally, if you’re able to take advantage of cheaper campsites that are more readily available, you’ll have time to dig a little deeper and really get a feel for what the culture and community of the place is all about.

The Exceptions to the Rules

It’s important to realize that there are exceptions to the rules. While the vast majority of the country sees a slow season during the winter months, there are certain areas that actually have more traffic during the winter. These include ski resorts, as well as snowbird havens such as SoCal, Arizona, and Florida. If you want to enjoy the slow-season benefits in these locations, you might want to consider visiting during the late spring, summer, or early fall.

Drawbacks of Off-Season Travel

It’s also good to understand that off-season travel does have its drawbacks. For instance, you’re more likely to encounter foul weather when visiting a place during the off-season. Additionally, some tourist attractions will close down completely when the crowds disperse for the season. Nevertheless, we continue to enjoy off-season travel and don’t plan to stop any time soon!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Samantha R. ~ Amazing customer service they kept checking in after we called them to make sure the problem was taken care of we had 2 tires blow in one day and the next day the truck needed to be towed they helped out so much and took care of both situations very professionally definitely recommend it!!!!