Improving Your RV Shower

03 Wednesday Apr 2019

Posted by in Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

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RV Shower

Nobody can deny that being able to take a hot shower anywhere you travel is one of the very best parts of RVing. The problem is, most RV are small and run out of hot water quickly. Besides, who likes dealing with all the toiletry bottles falling from the sides of the tub while driving, or using those little built-in shelves?

Fortunately, there are things you can do to improve your RV shower situation. By changing just a few things, you can make the fact that you can shower in the middle of the woods or in a Walmart parking lot even better than ever. Why not get started today?

Curved Curtain Rod

Let’s start by addressing the issue of size. Nobody likes turning around in a tiny shower only to have the curtain stick to them as they go. The solution to this annoying problem? A curved shower curtain rod. Curved shower curtain rods take the middle of the curtain out away from the side of the shower, giving you more room to move as you wash up.

Pressurized Shower Head

Shower Head Pressure

With your space problem solved, it’s time to tackle the problem of too little hot water. A pressurized shower head uses air to increase the water pressure without using as much water. This, in turn, empties your hot water tank much more slowly, resulting in more hot water for longer. Another major bonus is that you’ll use less of your fresh water, thus taking more time to fill your gray tank when boondocking.

Tankless Water Heater

If the new shower head doesn’t do the trick and you still find yourself running out of hot water, you’ll need to turn to the water heater itself. An on-demand tankless water heater can solve this problem for good, leaving you with hot water whenever and wherever you need it. Just be sure to invest in an RV-specific heater in order to ensure you can run the heater while off the grid.

Wall-Mounted Soap Dispensers

Wall Mounted Soap Dispenser

Tired of picking your shampoo bottle up off the bathroom floor? Want to be done with moving everything off the shower shelves for moving day? Wall-mounted soap dispensers are a great solution. Simply mount one for your shampoo, one for your conditioner, and one for body wash, and you’ll never have to deal with unwieldy bottles again.

Command Hooks

Nobody likes drying off with a damp towel, and this becomes even more annoying when the towel isn’t even within reach of the shower when you’re ready to dry off. Command hooks are the quickest and easiest way to fix this issue. Simply hang one or two heavy-duty hooks on the wall nearest your shower and leave your towel on a hook to dry after each shower. Then, when it’s time to dry off the next time around, your towel will be dry and within reach.

Have an RV shower tip you’d like to share? We’d love to hear about it! Comment below to help your fellow RVers get the most out of their RV bathrooms.

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Featured Provider l Alpha Unlock Pro’s & Roadside Assistance

03 Wednesday Apr 2019

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Alpha Unlock Pro's

Not all heroes wear capes. While the heroes you see in Hollywood movies can be entertaining and often idolized by small children, the real heroes rarely wear flashy clothes. In the field of roadside assistance, the mark of a real hero is his unyielding dedication to the people he helps and his really big tow truck. Coach-Net members regularly approach us in person, post their gratitude online, call our member services to express their appreciation, or even send in hand written letters to boast about the wonderful Coach-Net agent who patiently and happily helped them on the phone when they were in desperate need. But many people don’t fully see the team of people who work together seamlessly to ensure our members are provided for. One of the major pillars of our Coach-Net team is comprised of our independent service providers. We partner with thousands of service providers all throughout the US and Canada and while we provide for our members over the phone, we rely on our partners to provide for our members in person. One of our dedicated partners who we trust to take care of our members with the utmost care is Alpha Unlock Pros.

Network

Based in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Alpha Unlock Pros prides themselves on the top rated service they consistently deliver. Founded only 3 years ago, Alpha Unlock Pros has already received the Towman Ace Award two years in a row. The Towman Ace Award recognizes only the top 1% of service providers in the industry who consistently deliver the best service. Alpha Unlock Pros’ founder and owner, Adrian Lewis says receiving this esteemed award is “such and honor and speaks to how my company is dedicated to providing great service for our customers.” Afterall, that’s why Adrian created the company in the first place. “I saw a need for a company that had a genuine interest in helping stranded motorists. We also wanted to charge fair prices in a market that is often drastically overpriced.” While most people starting a new business are almost solely driven by maximizing their profit, Adrian’s primary focus was “fair” pricing and quality of service. It’s that kind of commitment to integrity why Coach-Net trusts Adrian and his team to help our members.

Alpha Unlock Pro's

Alpha Unlock Pros character and commitment to serving others is the foundation of their company and they work to demonstrate it in all that they do. Their mission statement is a testament of their devotion to selflessness and service. “Alpha Unlock Pros seeks to honor God by sowing seeds of faith by having a positive impact on those we come in contact with.” While most companies would promote the services they provide in their mission statement, Alpha Unlock Pros sets themselves apart from everyone else; they simply seek to honor their faith by serving others. That’s why we choose to partner with Alpha Unlock Pros; that’s why we trust them to provide the high-end level of service our members expect. They are dedicated to doing what’s right in all situations, and we work hard to reciprocate that same effort so that we can in turn earn their trust. And Adrian says that’s what he values most about our relationship. “Since the beginning of our working relationship, Coach-Net has always been dedicated to resolving any issues that may arise now matter how small the issue might be. Such commitment to great customer service on ALL levels is acknowledged and appreciated.”

Whether you’re locked out of your car, you’ve suffered a flat tire on your trailer, or your Class A diesel pusher is broken down on the side of the road, we work as a team with companies like Alpha Unlock Pros to handle whatever challenge you may encounter. We work together to ensure that you are safe, and you receive the help you need. So if you find yourself in need of roadside assistance: don’t panic, just call Coach-Net. With dedicated partners like Alpha Unlock Pros working with us 24/7, you can trust that our team will always come to your rescue. Thank you, Adrian, for choosing to partner with Coach-Net. Thank you, Alpha Unlock Pros for making sure Coach-Net members can truly enjoy Carefree RVing.

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Edward K. ~ “When I called in I had a flat tire on my RV. I didn’t think I was going to get service as fast as I did. Mary was quick to help. Offered assistance right away. It was reassuring to know I was going to be taken care of.“

Installing a Maxx Air Vent Cover

12 Tuesday Mar 2019

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Installing Maxx Vent

While many RVs these days come equipped from the factory, or the previous owner, with Maxx Air vent covers installed, it is not always the case. Vent covers are handy to have, as they allow you to have your vents open while travelling or when it’s raining. This allows you to have fresh air circulating through your rig without necessarily having your windows open or air conditioner running.

Vent covers are very simple to install and make for a great beginner DIY project. In this article I will walk through the installation of the Maxx Air vent cover, including a slight departure from the installation instructions that make it even easier!

Note that roof vents that incorporate large exhaust fans, such as Fantastic Fans® require different models of vent cover that allow higher air flow. Be sure to consult your RV parts dealer or the Maxx Air (or equivalent) website for specific application information. However, the installation process will be similar to that shown here.

Once you have your Maxx Air cover (or any other brand), unpack the contents of the packaging and separate the hardware from the cover. You should have a set of angle brackets, carriage bolts, washers, nuts, and some machine screws. If you want to make the job slightly easier, acquire four #8 x 5/8 (or similar length) self-tapping screws, which don’t come with the kit. These will replace the machine screws and nuts.

Any 14” roof vent can be covered by a vent cover. The following steps will illustrate how the installation is performed:

Air Vent

  1. The first step is to place the cover over the vent for proper positioning. Ensure the open, vented side of the cover is facing the rear of the coach. Center the cover side-to-side but leave more clearance at the back of the cover to allow the non-hinged edge of the vent to swing open and closed without binding.
  2. Once you have the cover positioned, go inside the RV and wind the vent up and down to make sure it has clearance across the full range of motion.
  3. When you have verified proper positioning and clearances, make a mark on the RV roof at each of the four corners where the bolt holes appear on the cover. Use either the inside or outside holes, but not both.
  4. Remove the vent cover and place a bracket at each marked location as shown. Be sure to insert the carriage bolt through the bracket before placing the bracket against the vent frame. Make sure the slot for the carriage bolt is located inline with the mark made in the previous step.
  5. Here, the manufacturer instructions may call for drilling a hole through the vent frame to install the machine screws. A much easier option is to simply screw a self-tapping sheet metal screw through the frame as shown here. As indicated above, a #8 screw approximately 5/8” in length will suffice. A battery powered screwdriver or drill is required here, but make sure you don’t over-torque the screws. Repeat this process for all four brackets.
  6. Once all four brackets have been secured to the vent frame, place the cover over the vent, making sure all four carriage bolts go through the cover slots. Slide the bolts in the bracket to achieve proper alignment. Go inside the RV and check for clearances again, as the vent cover can still be shifted in the slots.
  7. Once final clearance has been confirmed, place the star washers, flat washers, lock washers, and nuts on the carriage bolts and tighten the nuts using a socket or wrench.
  8. Since no holes were drilled in the RV roof, no sealant is required.

With this do-it-yourself task accomplished, you can feel satisfied that you have saved money, and it may give you the confidence to attempt other basic, or even more advanced projects.

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Tire Maintenance and Safety

06 Wednesday Mar 2019

Posted by in RV Information, Tips & Tricks

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Tire Maintenance and Safety

Over the years there has been tremendous discussion among RV owners regarding tire maintenance, safety, and proper inflation.  The rumors and discussions fill the internet and there are stories of “cheap Chinese” tires, tire failure, and premature tread wear.  Some of this is true, however most of the issues with tires can be traced to improper inflation, overloading the rig, and lack of inspection. Tires are rated to last 5-7 years, however without proper care and maintenance, they will not last more than a few!  There are some simple things you can do to extend the life of your tires.

Flat TIre

Proper Inflation

Most RVers believe that proper inflation is stamped on the side of the tire as Pounds per Square Inch or “PSI”.  What is stamped on the side is the MAXIMUM psi for that tire when the rig is loaded to MAXIMUM weight or GVWR.

PSI Info

This is not proper inflation, the only way to find the proper inflation for your tire is to have the rig weighed and determine the amount of weight on that tire and consult the tire manufacturer’s tire chart.  It is best to have the rig weighed by individual wheel position, however the only company currently offering this is the RV Safety and Education Foundation with teams that are covering the country.  Visit www.rvsafety.com to find where the teams are weighing.  If you can not get the rig weighed by individual wheel position, have it weighed at a CAT Scale located at most Flying J and Pilot Truck Centers.  Visit www.catscale.com to  find one in your area.

In the case of a motorhome, position the front axle on the first pad and the back axle on the second.  This way you can at least get individual axle ratings, however keep in mind that some rigs will be heavier on one side as there could be a generator, large slideroom with heavy furnishings, and personal items in the bins.

For a truck and trailer, position the front axle of the truck on the first pad, the drive axle on the second, and the trailer on the third.

Once you find the weight on the tires, visit www.rvsafety.com and go to the tire chart for your brand tire, find the model, size, and dual or single application.  There you can find the weight and match the proper tire inflation.

Check The Pressure Every Day

Most RV owners take their tire pressure for granted by simply glancing at the tire to see if it looks low.  Or use the “truckers” bat to listen for the appropriate “thump”.  You can not tell if a tire has 10 psi less by either of these methods.  If your tire is 10 psi lower than recommended pressure, you reduce your carrying capacity by 25%.  Make this part of your predeparture check list!

Use A Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)

Even if you check your tires at the beginning of the day, it’s a good idea to install a TPMS to verify the pressure and temperature of your tire.  Cars and trucks must have them standard in the past 10 years.  Knowing that your tires have the correct pressure and are not running higher temperatures will not only create peace of mind, but will also pay for itself in the long run.

Know Your Weights

We discussed weighing your rig previously to determine proper inflation, this will also tell you if your rig is over the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or the gross axle weight rating (GAWR).  If your rig is over either weight rating, your tires, bearings, axles and other components will be at risk.  It is also a good idea to take 10% off the maximum GVWR as you do not want to be loaded to the maximum trying to  stop in hot weather, rain, or even accellerating up a hill.

 

Cover Your Tires

Covered RV

Leaving the sidewall of your tires exposed to the sun and elements will cause it to dry out and weather check which is small cracks that weaken the sidewall.  Cover the tires when letting it set even for a couple days using a vinyl tire cover or even cardboard.  Do not use tire shine or other aftermarket cleaners and enhancers as they will make it dry out faster.  The only thing recommended for tires is a mild detergent to clean and rinse off.

Inspect Your Tires

Take a close look at the sidewall for weather checking, the tread for uneven wear, and any bumps or bulges that could indicate a tread separation or other failure.  Make this part of your predelivery checklist.

Only Replace Tires With Models Designed For Your Rig

RV tires are manufactured with UV protection in the sidewall, tread designed to dissipate moisture and run at a lower temperature, and rated for the weight.  Using bargain brand or “knock off” tires is only asking for trouble.  Check with your dealer or RV manufacturer for the recommended tire, size, and model.

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 ClubRV 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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Robert R. ~ “EVERYONE I have ever talked to his amazing – professional, kind, quick, thorough…always!”

 

5 Days You Can Visit National Parks Free of Charge

06 Wednesday Mar 2019

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National Parks

 

National park entrance fees go up nearly every year, but the price of admission shouldn’t deter you from visiting. Every year you have five days to visit national parks free of charge, wherever you want to roam.

The Five Days You Can Get into Parks Free

National park vacation costs are still less expensive than a family trip to Disneyland. But between entry fees, camping charges and additional excursions costs, a simple trip to the Grand Canyon could send anyone to the poorhouse. The good news is that if you plan your next national park adventure properly, you can save on the entry fees many parks charge visitors.

According to the U.S. Parks Service, 115 of the 418 parks managed by the National Park Service charge entrance fees. Those fees range anywhere from $5 a day to $35 a week. This allows visitors to come and go from the park as they please, sometimes for up to two weeks in many locations. The entrance fee waiver for the fee-free days does not cover amenity or fees that quickly add up, like camping, boat launches, transportation, or special park activities.

Glacier National Park

Thankfully, each year, national park visitors’ wallets get a break on five designated “fee holidays.” If you time your visit to arrive on of the free national park days, you can stay for as long as the usual entry fee allows – sometimes up to two weeks in places like Texas’ Big Bend National Park. The cost of a park’s entry fee may not be enough money to fill up your fuel tank, but for many campers, the lure of a “free” visit makes the journey even more appealing.

The U.S. National Park Free Days happen on the same five calendar dates every year. Start planning your national park visits around the following dates:

Monday, January 21 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Saturday, April 20 – First Day of National Park Week/National Junior Ranger Day

Sunday, August 25 – National Park Service Anniversary

Saturday, September 28 – National Public Lands Day

Monday, November 11 – Veterans Day

Once you decide to go, keep in mind that you aren’t the only RVer who loves a good deal at the national parks. You’ll have lots of company with other frugal campers, so prepare for busier attendance. Campgrounds in and around the park are guaranteed to fill up faster than usual on those free days, so make your campsite reservations as far ahead as possible to ensure you have a place to camp. Plan any tours in advance, and create a “Plan B” for alternate activities should your first choices be unavailable.

If your schedule won’t allow you to take advantage of those free national park days, you may be able to get in free using other methods, such as camping with a friend family member who qualifies for a free yearly U.S. National Parks pass. These designated groups of campers include disabled persons, current military members, and young children who qualify for the free annual pass just for fourth grade students.

If you aren’t lucky enough to camp with someone who possesses a free annual pass, you can get in free to parks any day of the year by volunteering your time with the six federal agencies participating in the “Interagency Pass Program.” Log 250 or more volunteer service hours with the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and you will receive a free annual entry pass.

Of course if you have the cash and you know several national park visits are coming up this year, it pays to spend $80 annually on the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. By paying ahead, you can enjoy year-round, unlimited entrance to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including all national parks. Plus you’ll feel good about helping out the parks with your cash. And perhaps the best reason to buy an America the Beautiful Pass is that you won’t have to limit your RV trips around those five free days in the national parks when everyone else plans on doing the same.

About the author: Rene Agredano 

Rene Agredano, a Coach-Net member since 2015, is a self-employed full-time RVer who enjoys writing, jewelry design and animal advocacy. Her adventures with a three-legged dog and husband Jim are chronicled at LiveWorkDream.com

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The Ins and Outs of RV Rental – What to Know Before You Hit the Road

01 Friday Mar 2019

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RV Renting

RV rental is a burgeoning business and a service that many vacationers have already taken advantage of. The ability to rent an RV for a family road trip or lease a large vehicle for a cross-country adventure is certainly attractive, and it is easy to see why so many new RV enthusiasts have taken to the roads.

Even so, there are some things to think about before hitting the road in your brand new rental RV. Knowing what to expect before you hit the road can make your next travel adventure safer, easier, more affordable and much more fun. Here are some things to think about if you are considering an RV rental.

Is Renting an RV a More Affordable Option?

To the uninitiated, it may seem like buying an RV is the cheaper alternative, especially if you plan to adopt a full-time RV lifestyle in retirement, or if you plan to embark on multiple road trips in a single year.

But before you head to the local RV dealership and take out a huge loan on that large vehicle, you need to think carefully about all the costs – not just the monthly payment. There are many costs to RV ownership, including some that new RV owners are totally unprepared for.

If you live in the country, you may have no trouble parking your behemoth and storing it in the off season, but for suburbanites and urban residents, the difficulties will begin right away. Depending on where you live, you may be forced to rent a storage space for your vehicle, and that could cost hundreds of dollars a month, even when you are not using the RV.

In the long run, renting an RV can be the more affordable alternative. When you choose RV rental, you incur costs only when you are using the vehicle, and you will not have to worry about parking restrictions at your home or fees at a local storage facility. In fact, RV rental is so affordable that many dedicated RV enthusiasts have already chosen this option.

Learning to Drive

It does not matter how long you have been driving or how capable a driver you are – operating an RV is a totally different animal. Recreational vehicles are not simply large – they are designed differently from passenger cars and pickup trucks.

That can make your first drive in an RV a bit dicey, and it is important to get to know the vehicle before you embark on your adventure. The RV is higher, longer and wider than the vehicle you are used to driving, and its different center of gravity will impact its handling, especially on twisty turning roads and tight corners.

RV Driving

Learning to park can be another challenge, and you will want to practice a lot before you hit the road. If you are planning to stay at an RV campground or visit crowded tourist attractions, you may need to park close to other RVs, and the skills you learn now will serve you well later.

These issues should not dissuade you from hitting the road in a rental RV, but you do need to be aware of the challenges before you set out. If you are a good and capable driver, you should have no trouble adapting to the unique nature of RV driving. If you practice ahead of time, you will be a more confident, and safer, RV driver.

Avoiding Roadside Headaches

Hopefully, your first foray into RV adventure will be a positive one, and you will make it to and from your destination without a hitch. Even so, it is important to be prepared for the unexpected, especially when you are driving in such a large vehicle.

Despite your best efforts and those of the RV rental agency, you cannot plan for every contingency. Roadside emergencies do happen, and when they do, you need to know help is only a phone call away.

Whether it is an accident with another driver, damage to the exterior of the vehicle or an unexpected breakdown in the middle of nowhere, having a preexisting relationship with a roadside assistance provider will give you extra peace of mind.

Even if you never need to call for service, you will feel better knowing that help is only a phone call away. Even if you have a generic roadside assistance service, it may not cover you when you are driving in an RV.

That is because most tow rigs and emergency service vehicles are not designed to pull or repair recreational vehicles. The closest repair shop may not have a list large or sturdy enough to accommodate an RV, and you may be left waiting for service for hours on end. This is where Coach-Net has your back.

By having a premium dedicated RV roadside assistance service ready to go, you can rest assured that you are covered, no matter what challenges the road has to offer. And while you hope you never need it, this type of coverage will be critically important when you hit the road in your rented RV.

The RV lifestyle is growing in popularity, and for good reason. When you drive an RV, you take your hotel room with you, and you can drive your house anywhere you like. Whether you are planning a coast to coast trip with the family or a romantic getaway with your spouse, you are sure to have a great time, but the right preparation can make a world of difference. Knowing what to expect from your first RV trip, and how to drive this large vehicle safely, will make your adventure even more fun.

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Christopher F. ~ “Both the agent and the provider were excellent!!! The provider even offered to come back for free if I ran into the issue again today!!! Awesome Service!!!”

Tips for RVing with Pets

21 Thursday Feb 2019

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Tips for RVing with Pets

One of the greatest things about traveling with an RV is the fact that your pets can tag along. After all, nobody likes to leave their furry friends behind, and anxiety about leaving pets is what keeps many dog and cat owners at home. That said, traveling with pets does require a bit of special preparation and some special considerations.

Below are our top tips for traveling with your pets. Keep these things in mind before heading out and you should have an easy and wonderful time on the road with your fur babies.

Consider Your Pet’s Personality

Mad CatFirst and foremost you’ll want to consider your pet’s personality. Some dogs and cats just aren’t cut out for travel, and if this is the case, you’ll need to make other arrangements.

Think about how your pup behaves around other people. Does he bark a lot? Will she try to run away? If so, your dog may not do well in a campground setting. If you have a cat, consider whether he or she will be happy hanging out inside. Cats who escape often are not suited to RV travel.

Do Test Runs

If you determine your pet will do well traveling in your RV, the next step is to do some test runs. Allow your dog or cat to get comfortable in the RV by giving them an opportunity to roam around and relax for a bit inside. You’ll also want to allow them a chance to get a feel for riding in a vehicle.

If you have a motorhome, take your pets for a spin inside to see how they react. If you’ll be pulling a trailer, take them for a ride in your truck. Do this a few times until you’re sure your pet is okay with vehicle travel and you know it doesn’t make them sick.

Make Room in Your RV

Of course, before you go on any trips you will need to prepare the RV for your furry friend. Find a place for food and water bowls, install a door ramp if necessary, and find a place for a pet bed. You might also want to install a temperature alarm in your RV. This will alert you should the A/C in your RV go out, causing the rig to become too hot.

Figuring these things out before you go will make everything much easier on the road.

Stop Often

Dog In RV

If your dog will be joining you on your trips, be sure to stop often to allow them to walk around and use the potty. Dogs need to move around a lot, and keeping your pup locked up in the car for extended periods of time will not end well. Luckily, most rest areas are perfectly okay with dogs, and some truck stops even include dog runs.

Another thing to keep in mind is the fact that pets should not be left in a tow car. Therefore, unless you have a motorhome or travel only when the weather is cooler, you’ll need a human friend to stay with your dog or cat in the car while you use the restroom, grab food, and pay for gas.

Those with motorhomes can avoid going in for the most part, and can run the A/C using the generator when going inside is necessary.

Choose Campgrounds Wisely

It’s important to be aware that some campgrounds do not allow pets to stay with them. Other campgrounds limit the dog breeds they will accept. For this reason, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and find out if your pet can stay with you in any given campground.

Want help finding pet friendly parks to stay in? Try Bring Fido.

Be Considerate

Always, always be considerate when staying with your pet in an RV park or campground. Pick up any solid waste your little friend may leave behind and never allow late-night or early morning barking.

Carry Shot Records

Lastly, you will want to keep shot records on hand for all your travels. Many campgrounds require these at check-in, and keeping a copy in the RV ensures you always have records when you need them.

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Adrian A. ~ “Tow driver was very friendly. The whole service we received was outstanding. I have nothing I could complain about. Keep up the good work. Thanks to everyone. ”

 

RV Cooking!

12 Tuesday Feb 2019

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RV Cooking

My husband, a contributor to Coach-Net, suggested I submit some articles for publication. He believes I have some unique perspective to share with other members. While my husband is an expert on most RV topics, there are many things that I handle during our travels, which, like many of you, contributes to a successful partnership and marriage. We have discussed my authoring an article on RV cooking for quite some time, but honestly, I don’t believe I do anything differently from other RVers, but some of my tips may come in handy.

Depending on the type and size of RV you have, the kitchen space is likely much smaller than what you have at home, although the reverse may be true if you have a large RV but a small home kitchen. Regardless, your coach and home share most of the same amenities, and the kitchen is no exception. You still need the same dishes, pots, pans, etc., but I have found that it can be more challenging to find ingredients to make specific dishes, that’s all. This has more to do with not necessarily knowing the best places to purchase fresh ingredients. We often rely on campground staff and hosts for this information.

I have made a personal challenge for myself, much to my husband’s amusement and daughters’ admiration, to use virtually no propane while at RV parks. This essentially means not using the stove. There is no specific reason for this, other than to conserve LP (Liquefied petroleum gas), which I prefer to save for dry-camping. Although this does mean diligently monitoring and controlling the current draw if we are limited to 30A service. I have an electric skillet and make many dishes with it, including pancakes, eggs, bacon, stir-fries, etc. I even boiled pasta in it once!  We also have an electric rice cooker, which I use for its intended purpose of making rice, but I have successfully boiled eggs in it as well (I have to manually turn it off when they were done to prevent the keep-warm from engaging).

Pressure Cooker

Slow cookers and one-pots are awesome and can be used to prepare many different dishes. This includes chili, soup, and yogurt, but they also do a very good job on baked potatoes! I just foil wrap them as I would if I were going to bake them in the oven. Make sure you don’t under- or over-cook them.

Finally, there is our convection/microwave oven; cookies and cakes galore! I still have to attempt to bake bread, but that challenge has been accepted and will be attempted soon.

The moral of the story is to make sure you pack the same small kitchen appliances in the RV as you have at home (or wish you had at home). If you can, purchase duplicates so you can keep them in your RV. Learn to use them to their full advantage (and then some), even if you are not so inclined at home. Wal-Mart, Target, and Fry’s Electronics are great places to stock up on small appliances, as well as anything else you need or forgot, but there are also other places. You will find that cooking in the RV can be an escape from the mundane and you may even find it is something you look forward to. Your family will certainly appreciate the range of dishes you can prepare, I know mine does. You can even make it a family affair.  And don’t forget about grilling meat and veggies on the barbecue outside (we mustn’t forget about THAT handy appliance).

About the author: Steve Froese

Steve Froese, an avid RV owner, traveler, and Coach-Net member since 2013, is the principal of “A Word to the Wise Technical Communications”, a published RV author, certified RV technician, and licensed Professional Engineer. He frequently collaborates with the “RV Doctor”, Gary Bunzer, and has worked with the RVIA/RVDA as a technical and training writer and consultant. Professionally, he works as a quality engineer and musician. Watch for more of Steve’s work in upcoming Coach-Net publications.

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Create a Field Guide and Memories to Last a Lifetime

06 Wednesday Feb 2019

Posted by in Kids and Camping, The Great Outdoors

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Create a Field Guide and Memories to Last a Lifetime

If you love the great outdoors and want to share this love with your children, get out the hiking boots and hit the trails. But before you go, head to the art supply store and pick up a blank journal to record your adventures and discoveries. You’ll use this blank journal as the foundation for your family’s personal field guide.

First, you’ll need a sturdy journal that’s not too big. It needs to be small enough to slip into a backpack but not so small that you’ll outgrow it too soon. Eight inches tall by six inches wide is a good size. Select a hardcover or leather-bound version for durability. You can create different sections by adding tabs. For example, you might want different sections for:

  • Field notes
  • Sketches
  • Adventures
  • Rock hunting
  • Favorite hikes
  • Wildflowers
  • Animals

Leather Journal

Customize the tabs to meet your family’s interests. The whole idea is to create a living document that reflects how you enjoy the outdoors. When making your field guide, let the kids get involved. This project is as much theirs as it is yours. Even the little ones can participate. Years from now, you’ll look back on the crayon drawings and scribbled notes with fondness.

Use the field guide before, during, and after your camping trips or day hikes. Beforehand, you can enter maps or write checklists of things you hope to see. For example, if you’re going rock hunting, have the kids research the areas of your destination where they might find a certain type of rock and let them record trail information in the field guide. Once at the destination, let the kids enjoy their hunt. They can take photos, draw maps, describe the setting, jot down notes, write out theories, and so forth. Once home, they can print the photos and paste them into the journal. They can also research questions that may have occurred to them during the hunt and update the field guide once they discover the answers.

Science can be fun! The journal that you create together will evolve as you go. You can use it to record notes, jot down your thoughts and feelings, sketch interesting plants, or log your trips. Use it wherever you go whether it’s the coastline, forest, desert, or mountains. By creating a field guide and sharing it with your children, you will set the stage for a lifelong love of learning.

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Driving Your RV In The Winter

06 Wednesday Feb 2019

Posted by in RV Information, RV Safety, Tech Tips

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Driving In The Winter

More winter enthusiasts are taking to the slopes and frozen tundra in RVs to support their cold-weather hobbies and activities.  Winter festivals are becoming popular such as the “Color Of The Wind” in Northern Iowa, Polar Bear plunges all over the US, and one of the largest festivals, The Winter Carnival in St Paul, MN.

An RV, whether it’s a motorhome or truck and trailer, makes a great warm getaway, mobile hotel room, or cozy “Chalet”!  However, just like any winter activity, caution and some preparation is required to make sure your event or journey is a safe one.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Batteries

Solar

Make sure your chassis battery has been checked and fully charged as well as your charging system.  If you will be dry camping or camping “Off The Grid” make sure your house batteries are in good working order and you have the ability to recharge them with either a generator or solar panel system.  If you do not have an on-board generator, a portable is a good idea in case of an emergency.  Make sure it’s a generator/inverter as this will provide a pure sine wave and will not damage delicate microprocessors in electronics.

Check Your Weight

It’s a good idea any time you pack a vehicle for a trip to get your vehicle weighed to make sure you are not exceeding the weight ratings.  Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum weight your rig can weigh with all water, LP, cargo, and passengers in the case of a motorhome.  Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the maximum weight that can be on each axle.  Visit www.catscale.com to find a Cat Scale near you to weigh your rig.  A safe rule of thumb is to make sure your rig is at least 10% under maximum GVWR and GAWR.  Being at maximum weight or over is dangerous for tires, bearings, and makes it especially harder to stop!

Tires

Check your tires every day you hit the road for proper pressure and any obvious defects and wear such as sidewall weather checking, or poor tread.  Most states require replacement of tires when the tread depth reaches 2/32”.  This is fine for normal driving conditions, however when there is wet or snowy pavement, the moisture must be channeled or directed away from the surface of the tire and the road.  This is what the tire tread is designed for and most tire manufactures recommend at least 4/32” to reduce hydroplaning.  A new tire typically has 9/32” tread depth.  This not only applies to drive tires on a truck or motorhome, but also to other tires on the steering axle as well as a trailer as water and snow needs to be channeled away to prevent a breaking loose situation when applying brakes.

Chains

Tire Chains

Keep in mind that several states have laws requiring tire chains over certain roads during a storm.  If you do not have chains, you will receive a hefty fine!  Most RVers don’t carry chains as they are expensive, hard to put on, and can cause damage to the RV if they slip off.  Most simply wait out the storm until the plows clear the road and they can drive normal.  If you are on a time crunch, do some homework to find out what areas you might be traveling to and what you might run into for chain requirements.  There are some other options such as cables and even socks that are legal in many states that are worth researching for your rig as well.

Antifreeze

Make sure your engine cooling system has the appropriate antifreeze mixture for the temperatures you will encounter.  This also includes a windshield wiper antifreeze to keep the windshield from icing over.  Larger motorhomes especially are difficult to keep heated and many RVers carry a bottle of windshield deicer as well.  A new product in the RV Repair Club shop called Clarity Defender has been proven to reduce the amount of snow and ice buildup on windshields.

Fuel 

The cheapest fuel is not always the best in the winter.  Use a premium blend to reduce gas line freezing, keep the tank at least ½ full, and use an additive such as Sea Foam or other Isopropyl.

Winter Safety Kit

It’s a good idea to carry a few winter essentials in case of emergency.

  • Extra Winter Clothes – Gloves, Coat, Blanket
  • Bag of Sand, Cat Liter, or Salt
  • Windshield Scraper
  • Shovel
  • Flashlight
  • Jumper Cables
  • Tow Rope
  • Warning Triangle or LED Lights
  • NOAA Emergency Radio/Charger
  • Portable Jumper/Charger

 

Tips For Driving

Take it slow

Reduce Speed

Fast acceleration or stopping will cause your vehicle to break loose and loss of control.  Remember, it will take you almost twice as long to stop on wet or snowy roads so adjust your speed and following distance accordingly.  The National Safety Council recommends a 2 second following distance on normal roads.  Most RVs take twice as long to stop, therefore requiring a 3-4 second following distance on dry roads!  Factor in wet and snowy conditions and you will need twice that.  Don’t be in a hurry, it’s easier to stay out of trouble than it is to get out of trouble!

NO Cruising

Don’t use cruise control on wet or snowy roads as the drive wheels can break loose easily and increase speed.

Be Prepared

Understand what happens when your vehicle does lose control or “breaks loose”.  In most situations, simply taking your foot off the pedal will help correct the situation.  There are two types of skids, rear wheel, and front wheel.  In a rear-wheel skid, take your foot off the pedal and steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go.  This is referred to as oversteer.  Do not apply the brake as it will enhance the skid.  A front-wheel skid typically happens when the brakes are applied.  Remove your foot from the brake pedal and steer the front again to the direction you want the vehicle to go known as understeering.

Scan ahead of you and see how other vehicles are reacting.  Keep a safe following distance and adjust speeds when others are having issues with driving conditions.  You do not want to stop in the middle of a hill so maintain a moderate speed at a safe distance to carry you up the hill and reduce speed at the top to limit the amount of braking required when going down the hill.

Look for slippery conditions on bridges and open road areas commonly referred to as “Black Ice”.

Understand Your Brakes

If you have Anti-Locking Brake System (ABS) a sensor will provide a pulsing brake application if the tire starts to skid.  This allows the wheel to start spinning again and the driver to regain control.  If you have ABS brakes, keep your foot on the pedal and allow the sensor to help regain control.  If you do not have ABS brakes, keep your heel on the floor and apply a slight pumping of the brakes.

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 ClubRV 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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