Tag Archives: rv tools

Holiday Gifts For the RV DIYer That Has It All

07 Wednesday Dec 2022

Posted by in Holidays in your RV, Tips & Tricks

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We all know them, the RVer that has every gizmo and gadget that comes along and is impossible to shop for. Over the years I’ve assembled quite a toolbox of unique measuring tools and every once in a while come across something else new that makes my troubleshooting and repairs easier. And not only that, but some of the gadgets help tell me what is happening in places that I can’t see such as wheel bearings, brakes, and electrical systems.

So here are some must-have tools and gadgets that will make you a hit with that hard-to-shop-for RVer.

Infrared Thermometer

The Infrared Thermometer allows you to pinpoint temperatures with a laser pointer to identify issues with heating, cooling, and axles. Every day you hit the road you should not only check the air pressure in the tires but also monitor what is happening in the bearings and brakes. Stop at some point during the day and check the hub of your trailer, brake drum, and tires. Then check the ambient temperature by using the side of your rig. If the hub temperature is extremely high, the bearing is most likely getting dry and need to be repacked. If the brake drum is extremely high, the auxiliary brakes are probably set too high. Record these temperatures and you will get to understand what is an acceptable temperature and what is extreme.

You can also use this device to get an exact temperature of what is coming out of the roof air conditioner rather than just guessing it’s not cooling enough. The roof air conditioner can only condition the ambient air coming in down 15 degrees so if it is 110 inside your rig, the air coming out can only be 95 degrees and that is not cool. You can also test the temperature of the air coming out the furnace vent to make sure it is acceptable. Knowing the exact temperatures will help with troubleshooting over the phone in case of an emergency.

You can get this device at any home improvement store or for a great value on Amazon here.

Magnetizer/Demagnetizer

There are times I could really use a magnetized screwdriver, especially in those hard-to-reach places with a tiny screw. But I don’t like it sitting in the bag latching on to everything metal including nuts and bolts. Plus it seems that the times I do have one in the bag it’s not the right size or I need a Philips, not a flat head. This is where the Magnetizer comes in handy.

Simply run the head of any metal screwdriver back and forth through the magnetized (+) slot and you have a tool that will latch on to the screw going in or coming out. To demagnetize, simply run it through the demagnetize (-) slot and it’s a normal tool. You can do this with needle nose pliers and drill bits to help catch metal shavings when drilling in metal. I’ve also used it to magnetize a metal coat hanger and retrieve a screw or bolt that dropped down the furnace vent. Find it on Amazon here.

Universal Grip Wrench

For years I’ve called this a “puck wrench” and just recently saw the actual name on Amazon! This not only has both SAE and Metric deep sockets but a unique feature is the rounded 12-point teeth rather than the sharp ones used on most sockets. Snap On patented this years ago and when that ran out, everyone copied it. The rounded edge means it contacts the side of the nut rather than at the point so it will not only fit both Metric and SAE but will also loosen a nut that has been stripped! It has a slot for a screwdriver tip and can also tighten a rounded cup holder.

Find it on Amazon here.

Air Gun

One of the most important maintenance items you can perform on an absorption refrigerator is cleaning out the burner assembly, flue, and back cavity of the compartment

The more you use your absorption refrigerator on LP, the more buildup of soot you will get in the burner assembly and flue. Also, spiders like the smell of propane and can block the flow of LP weaving a web. Once a year it is a good idea to open the back vent panel, put on a pair of safety glasses, and blow out the entire back of the refrigerator. Take off the metal burner assembly shield and get inside to clean it out thoroughly and clean off the back fins of the cooling unit. Your refrigerator will run much more efficiently even on 120-volt power! You might want to add a ¼” flexible hose to get in tough-to-reach spots like I did with mine.

You can find them on Amazon here.

Anemometer (Air Flow Meter)

I get dozens of questions almost every day and many times I get very generic ones that state my air conditioner isn’t running efficiently, my heater is slow, or my airflow from my roof air is low. To diagnose any issue with airflow or temperature you need to know what is normal and what is happening. This inexpensive air flow meter is known as an anemometer which will tell airflow and temperature.

Most RV manufacturers that have ducted roof air will test the ceiling ducts during final inspection to ensure the ductwork is open and the air is flowing and use a much more sophisticated coned type device. As we discussed earlier, the roof air conditioner can only condition or cool the air 15 degrees lower than the air at the intake. Using this device will help tell what the temperature is inside and if it is actually working as designed. Testing the airflow when the unit is cooling efficiently will tell you what the normal speed is and when you think it is not running correctly will help identify what is actually happening. You may be getting good airflow out of a closer vent and very little out of the far vent which might mean there is an obstruction in the ductwork? It will also give you specifics that most tech support personnel at RV manufacturers appreciate.

Find it on Amazon here.

Brake Fluid Moisture Tester

Almost every truck, car and motorhome chassis manufacturer recommends changing the brake fluid every 5 years or 50,000 miles. But who does that? While writing the RV Handbook for Trailer Life Publications I did some research with chassis engineers from Ford and Freightliner as well as talked with several auto technicians and they stated that brake fluid will break down, especially when subjected to extreme heat conditions of RVing as well as ambient temperatures. It can also get condensation with temperature changes and make the fluid break down faster.

Take off the cap and place the tester probes in the brake fluid reservoir for 1 second and the LED lights will tell you the quality of the fluid. You can find it at Amazon here.

Air Conditioner Evaporator And Condenser Fin Comb

Your roof air conditioner draws warm, moist interior air up through the inside return air and draws it through the front evaporator coil. The compressor then sends the coolant to the evaporator coil to flash the air and draw out heat and moisture. The fins of this coil are straight and slotted to allow the air to pass through however if the coils get bent, it restricts airflow. It is more important in the back where the condenser coils draw outside air in to help cool the coolant lines and those outside fins can get smashed with hail or backing into a branch! Visually inspect the coils and use this handy comb to straighten them out. Find it at Amazon here.

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.

Karl P. ~ “Kurt from Quality Tire was exceptional. He came and pulled both sets of back tires. The inside tires on both sides of our motor home had 0 pressure. Both Valve stems had been damaged for some reason. He replaced the valve stems on both tires and checked and filled all 6 tires to correct pressure. He was a pleasant and pleasurable person to work with. We were called by Coach-Net several times to make sure everything went as it was supposed to. Thank you to all the Coach-Net Representatives and to Kurt from Quality tire. It took something that was a pain and made it a pleasure.”

Cool RV Tools Every Camper Should Have!

02 Wednesday Nov 2022

Posted by in Tech Tips

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Everyone has their favorite tools they bring along on an RV trip depending on your level of mechanical and DIY abilities. There have been numerous articles about the basics such as screwdrivers and pliers. Over the past 40 years of RVing and a few more before that working and owning a service station, I have gathered a few more that are pretty unique.

Several years ago I was conducting seminars at the California RV Show and pulled out a couple of meters and gauges that I used in one of the handyman series for testing and after the seminar, a few of the Winnebago Itasca Travelers (WIT) Club members came up and said; “I bet you have developed quite a unique set of tools and gadgets over the years?” And they were right, so I developed one of my most popular seminars called “Cool RV Tools, Gadgets, and must-have Apps”. I will share a few of the more unique ones with you in this article.

Electrical Tools

GFCI Tester

Before plugging into a campground electrical source, it’s important to make sure it has proper voltage and is wired correctly. Whether you are plugging into 20 amp, 30 amp, or 50 amp service, it is important to verify the load wire/wires, neutral, and ground are all connected and not loose. Using a Surge Protector is a great option, however, I found this GFCI tester at Home Depot that not only tells me the wiring is good but also shows the voltage. You do not want to plug into anything that is below 106 volts or above 130 volts. Even if you use a multimeter or Surge Protector, this is a handy device to plug into an inside outlet for a quick reference of voltage and wiring.

Non-Contact Voltage Tester

This handy device will immediately tell you if there is power coming through an extension cord, appliance plug-in, or at an outlet without needing to dig deep into the outlet. If you get the type with a sensitivity dial, you can also test the outside of your rig for hot skin which is a voltage leak due to improper or loose wiring. These are available at home improvement and hardware stores.

Kill A Watt

Most people understand the basics of what they can run on 20 amp, 30 amp, and 50 amp service such as only one roof air conditioner on 30 amps, either the air conditioner or the microwave but not both on 30 amps, and other common items found on your rig. But what power does a toaster draw? How about an air fryer, or hair dryer? It’s important to know what extra items you bring using power especially if you are using 20 or 30-amp power. The Kill A Watt is a handy device that plugs into an outlet and that you plug into an appliance such as an espresso machine, curling iron, or ceramic heater. It will tell you the Watts or Amp so you can better manage your energy usage.

Electrical Cord Holders

Several years ago I was following a friend that was an electrician and saw he had several extension cords and other items hanging on the cage in the back of his pickup. I caught up with him and found he had gotten an old tire inner tube from the local tire shop, cut a 2” band out of the middle, and wrapped it around the cords. He then put in hooks and had everything organized with a handy carrying loop.

I took this idea and have used it in RVs, for video production, and here is a photo of the electrical compartment we just organized for a friend with a Thor this summer. Everything is up off the floor and more room for “STUFF!”

Fresh Water Systems

Intellitec Digital Water Purity Tester

Campgrounds are required to have their water tested and certified once a year however, bacteria, arsenic, and other contaminants can be present between the tests. I found this device that can do a very quick test for impurities. It measures in parts per million (PPM) which means it does not identify what impurities rather there is something in the water that affects continuity between the probes and the higher the PPM, the more impurities. Today I can only find this on Amazon.

Filtermate Test Kit

Even if the water supply passes the average test, does not mean it is the best water source for your pets, children, or your rig’s water supply. Most campground water sources will be hard water which means there is calcium, lime, and rust that could clog up pipes, filters, and faucets. There are several test kits that will determine the hardness of the water, PH, and other chemicals that might be an issue at the campground. I find these mostly at home improvement stores. These kits can help determine if you need a water filter, and what kind.

Water Pressure Tester

Most campgrounds will have a well-type water system with a pump rather than a regulated municipal type. That means you could get low pressure or even worse, high pressure that your water lines and connections can not handle. Most RVs today have ½” plastic lines such as PEX with either a crimped-on ring at the connections or a compression-type fitting. Most can handle at least 40 psi or some up to 60 psi which is the water pressure coming into the rig. It’s important to test the water pressure before hooking up and to know what your rig can handle! My folks went to visit my brother and hooked up the city water hose to the outside faucet at his house and later that afternoon had a soaked floor. The connections could not handle the pressure and water just slowly seeped out.

Screw this onto the water supply at the campground or house to test the pressure. Or you can use the next tool!

Water Pressure Regulator/Filter

This is not actually a tool but rather an accessory but I include it as the type I like to use is not so common. Most RVers like to use an inline filter such as Camco or Shurflo which you sell all over the campground. I like to use a residential style on such as this Omni version that you often see under the sink in homes. This type of filter has a replaceable cartridge insert that can also be customized for the type of filtering you need. I can replace the cartridge for over half the cost of the all-in-one inline filter.

Notice the 40 psi reducer attached to the faucet as this old-style farm handle would give me 80 psi! Plus this is one of the few accordion-type hoses that is drinking water safe!

Winterizing Hose

I like to use compressed air to blow all the water out of the system rather than put in gallons and gallons of pink RV antifreeze. Usually, I do this by myself and there has not been a good method to connect the air hose of my compressor to the screw-in air valve to the city water fill. So I built my own using the male end of an old water hose that connects to the city water fill and added an air chuck with a worm clamp. This way I can connect this to the city water fill, turn the compressor down to 40 psi, connect the hose with the quick connect, and open all the faucets and other devices by myself.

Liquid Propane (LP)

LP Leak Detector

By RVIA code, all RVs come with an LP Leak Detector installed which has a sensor that will provide an audible beep if it detects LP in the air. This is usually located under a kitchen cabinet or other lower cabinet location as LP is heavier than air and will settle.

There are several areas that could have a slight LP leak that would not be detected by this unit such as at the DOT cylinders on trailers or ASME tank on a motorhome. All LP appliances have an LP hose and connection which could also leak and might not be detected by the device in locations like the back of the refrigerator, outside grill, outside kitchen, and the furnace. That is why I like to periodically check the connections with my own portable LP Leak Detector which I found on Amazon for $20.

This is a much more accurate and pinpoint device that allows you to test lines and connections that the floor-mounted device might not detect.

Gas Stop

Gas Stop is a device that will instantly and automatically shut off the LP delivery system in the event of a major leak such as a ruptured line or other failures. Even though all RV LP fuel supply containers have a spring-loaded excess flow valve, there is still a slight chance of malfunction of the valve and it can get stuck in bypass and appliances will not work. This device will also show you the level of LP in the container and can sense a very slight leak in the system.

Stay tuned, next month we will show a refrigerator vent blowout tool as well as a “comb” to straighten the evaporator coils. And then one of my favorites, the “Magnetizer”!

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.

Swain W. ~ “Service was excellent and follow-up was fantastic. It means a lot to be taken care of when you are down. Very happy with everyone’s performance I would not have known what to do or who to call if I had not had Coach-Net. You all were excellent.” 

10 Must-Have Items For Your RV Kitchen

16 Wednesday Sep 2020

Posted by in RV Safety

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10 Must-Have Items For Your RV Kitchen

Image from harvesthosts.com

Although some of us would like to stock our RV cabinets and drawers with every cooking gadget and dish imaginable, many RVs don’t provide the space or storage to do so.  Instead, we each have to take a step back and decide what needs to stay.  Sometimes this includes being a little creative and innovative in our decision-making.

In this process, it’s crucial to think about what items you typically use when preparing meals, the versatility of a kitchen tool, and how much storage space is available.  It’s also important to take into consideration that your RV kitchen is mobile, so there is a matter of securing items. Plus, many RVers use propane to cook; ensuring the safety of all occupants is very important. The following is a list of kitchen essentials to help you get started setting up your RV kitchen!

Instant Pot

The Instant Pot hasn’t lagged in popularity even after its introduction ten years ago.  If you still haven’t become a part of the ever-growing global fanbase and haven’t purchased a model of your own, you may be missing out on some serious cooking.

Instapot

Image from instantpot.com.

The makers of Instant Pot boast of its versatility, claiming that this multi-cooker takes the place of at least 6 appliances.  Settings include pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, steaming, warming, sauteing, and even yogurt making. The company combines the love of the cuisine with technology in each model intending to create good-for-you, scrumptious meals in a quicker, user-friendly manner.

From an RVer’s standpoint, there are many benefits to having one in your kitchen. Since it is a pressure cooker, less water is needed than traditional cooking.  It is energy-efficient, preparing food 10 times faster and using up to 70% less energy.  The Instant Pot comes in a variety of capacities, so finding one that fits your traveling crew’s needs and RV space is a cinch. Also, if you are at a loss with meal ideas, don’t sweat it!  The Instant Pot app, cookbooks, and user blogs are sure to spark up a meal plan or ten!

Spice Rack Storage

Storing spices in a cabinet seems like a reasonable option, but it can quickly turn into a rummaging game every time you want to cook. It’s hard to see and easily grab what you need inside of a cabinet that is stuffed with randomly placed jars of spices and seasonings.

Spice Rack Storage

Image from pinterest.com.

Ashley Mann of RVinspiration.com suggests these creative spice rack options to “save storage space in your cabinets and keep your spices, herbs, and seasonings organized and handy.” She mentions attaching spice clips to the inside of cabinet doors, mounting spice shelves, purchasing a spice caddy, or opting for magnetic spice containers to store these ingredients.

Cutting Board and Strainer Combo

When counter space is limited in a kitchen, sometimes utilizing the sink area is the next best thing. For those of us that strive to prepare and cook fresh produce daily, juggling between a cutting board and a strainer can be cumbersome and messy.  A combo over-the-sink cutting board and strainer can be just the trick to preparing fruits and vegetables.  There are quite a few variations on this kitchen product, including the size and type of material used for the cutting board.

Strainers

Image from whatsgoinoninthekitchen.com.

Water Filtration System

Consuming clean drinking water is not only essential for your body’s health and well-being, but it is also important for the continued functions of your RV’s internal systems–plumbing and other adjoining equipment. There are plenty of contaminants that you can be exposed to once you hook-up to water sources.

Water Filter System

Image of Berkey Water Filter System by rv-insight.com.

You could carry around cases of water bottles, but that would certainly be impractical on many levels. Instead, consider installing a water filtration system. There are many top-rated filtration products available. One highly sought after system is the Berkey Water Filter System. It sits on your countertop. This gravity-fed purification system requires no electricity to operate, thus it is great for boondocking. The sophisticated filtration system eliminates 99% of viruses and pathogenic bacteria for safe drinking and cooking water. The company has been around for 15 years and in the process created a variety of products to meet the unique requests of customers.

If you are limited on counter space in your RV and are looking for a filtration system that attaches to your water system equipment, consider these five water filters recommended by freshwatersystems.com. In addition to mentioning the benefits of each product, they discuss what aspects to look for in a filtration system to best fit the needs of you and your traveling crew.

Cast Iron Pan

A cast-iron pan is one of those kitchen tools that keeps on giving or rather seasoning the more it is used.  They can be used on the stove, in the oven, on the grill, and over the campfire. It is a rather heavy kitchen item, but its practicality, durability, and versatility outshine this minute attribute.

Cast Iron

Image from rei.com.

Not a fan of doing dishes after a meal? These skillets require minimal maintenance after each use.  A brief rinse in water, a quick brush using a scouring pad, and sitting it over a small flame to dry usually does the trick.  Some folks wipe it down with a bit of oil afterward.

Tension Rods/ Shelf Liners

Your kitchen is on wheels, so regardless if you are on the road every week or every season, at some point, your kitchen supplies will be bouncing and sliding about unless there is some form of restraint to keep them in place. This is where tension rods and non-slip shelf liners come into play.

Tension Rods

Image from pinterest.com.

Tension rods are usually used in the RV refrigerator and freezer to keep food and containers from falling out every time the door is opened. They can also be used in cabinets for perishables, really any items that you want to prevent from falling. RV road trips can get pretty bumpy, and if rods are not situated an innocent snack attack could end up with a broken glass jar of pickles splattered all over the floor.

Before stocking up any cabinets or drawers with items, line all bases and shelves with non-slip liners. Not all shelf liners are created equal. There are a variety of options, but the main goal is to keep dishes and food items in place and not sliding around. Brandon Burk of baysiderv.com helps narrow down your search by detailing some top-notch shelf liners for RVs, including the pros and cons of each.

Collapsible and Nesting Cookware

Innovative kitchen products on the market today take the guesswork out of storing functional cookware in an RVs limited cabinets and drawers. If you are a big fan of Tetris, then investing in collapsible and nesting cookware will be quite an enjoyable venture.  Mix-matched bowls and measuring spoons have to go.

Nesting Cookware

Image from Amazon.com.

A simple online search for either collapsible or nesting cookware will produce an entire gamut of cooking essentials like mixing bowls, measuring cups, and pots and pans sets. If collapsible items catch your attention, there are collapsible tea kettles and dish drying racks also. The possibilities appear endless.

Compact Blenders

Emulsion Blender

Image from rvinspiration.com.

Small, lightweight, portable blenders like stick and personal blenders are examples of the type of appliances that wouldn’t take much room tucked away in an RV kitchen cabinet or drawer. Besides their size, they are a very versatile cooking tool that comes with various attachments to dice, emulsify, shred, mince. In the market for an RV-friendly blender, check out these recommendations from thrivecuisine.com.

Refrigerator-Freezer Thermometer

Compared to residential refrigerators, RV refrigerators have a completely separate mechanism that allows it to cool.  Residential refrigerators use a compressor and blow cold air into the unit.  The air circulates around, cooling all items evenly.

In contrast, an RV fridge cools down by a process called absorption.  Basically, the fridge relies on chemistry and gravity to cool the metal blades in the fridge. Warm air slowly rises and is cooled down by those blades located at the top of the unit’s interior.  That cool air falls, and the process continues, slowly cycling up and down.  Simply opening the door to the fridge could disrupt the entire process and cause cool air to quickly escape.

Many RV owners will stick a portable fan inside to help speed airflow and cooling.  An easy way to make sure your RV fridge is staying in the sweet spot of 34 to 36 degrees and your freezer between 0 and 10 degrees Fahrenheit is to mount a thermometer inside each. Check the temperature periodically to make sure your food is not in danger of spoiling.

Carbon Monoxide Detector

In a special report by Tennessee’s Department of Health, representatives discussed the hazards of carbon monoxide in recreational vehicles. “In campers and RVs, items that emit carbon monoxide include built-in or portable generators, gas-powered heaters, gas ranges or ovens, portable camp stoves and gas water heaters. The carbon monoxide emitted can build up in enclosed, semi-enclosed or poorly-ventilated spaces, poisoning people and animals who breathe it.”

Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Many RVers use propane to cook.  Burning propane on a range stove produces carbon monoxide, so proper ventilation must be utilized when cooking.  An overhead range fan usually does the trick.  However, if the ventilation or propane system is malfunctioning, a carbon monoxide detector can help detect elevated levels of the poisonous gas.

The Heart of a Home

A kitchen has often been referred to as “the heart of a home.”  Ensure that your RV kitchen is where life and activity thrive by stocking up with these must-haves. Together they help provide practical, functional, space-saving, and safe options so you and your traveling bunch can enjoy cooking as much as RVing!

About The Author: Natalie Henley and her husband, Levi, have been full-time RVers for over 5 years.  They have also been Coach-Net customers for the same amount of time.  They travel and workcamp around the U.S. in their 26-foot Itasca Sunstar motorhome with their two cats.  They write for multiple RV-related publications and recently co-wrote “Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It.” You can follow their adventures on the road at henleyshappytrails.com.

RV ProtectAww Shucks!

Swain W. ~ “Service was excellent and follow up was fantastic. It means a lot to be taken care of when you are down. Very happy with everyone’s performance I would not have known what to do or who to call if I had not had Coach-Net. You all were excellent.” 

So you just bought your first RV: Part 1

03 Wednesday Jun 2020

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

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So you just bought your first rv: part 1

According to the latest statistics, RV’s are flying off the lot with record sales this spring even with the pandemic.  And maybe it’s because of the pandemic?  After all, who wants to go to a crowded airport, sit next to a total stranger, get into a rental car that someone else just drove, and spend the night in a hotel that you have no control over who was there and how well it was sanitized!

OK, maybe I’m being a little overdramatic, but having your own rig that you know is sanitized and only used by you and your family is the next best thing to sheltering at home if you take the precautions we discussed earlier.  Campgrounds, State Parks, and National Parks are slowly opening up and you can experience the thrill of the open road whether it’s for just a weekend, several weeks, or even full-timing.  But there are a few tips and preparation items you should know about to make the time more enjoyable and less of a hassle.

Have the right tools and accessories

Before you take off on your RV adventure, take some time to review the videos and blogs on connecting to the campground.  You will want to have the appropriate connectors, meters, and dump station accessories

Shore Power

The shoreline power typically has a 15 amp, 30 amp, and sometimes a 50 amp service.  If your rig has a 50 amp power cord, but your campground only has 30 amp and 15 amp, you will need an adapter to step down to 30 amp and also need to understand power management meaning you can not run both roof air conditioners at the same time.  It’s also important to check the voltage and wiring of the campground source prior to plugging your rig in.  This can be done with a multimeter or a Surge Guard connection that is a great accessory to have as it not only protects against campground surges, but also shows the amp draw of your rig, voltage, and shuts down if the voltage drops.  Another good tool to have is a non-contact voltage tester to safely test appliance cords, extension cords, and outlets for power.  It’s also a good idea to take along an extension cord that is the same amperage as your shoreline power and no longer than 25’.

For the water system, you will want a pressure regulator and possibly an inline filter as the campground water could have higher pressure than your plumbing can handle and most will have hard water full of lime, calcium, and rust.  You will also need a lead BPA free water hose certified for drinking water.  Typically these are white, however, Valtera and others make a coil hose certified for drinking water shown in the photo.

Water System

Next is the wastewater system which is your black water tank that gets waste from the toilet and some sinks, and gray water tank which is your shower and sinks.  The black water tank needs to have the correct treatment as it will break down the waste properly and reduce sediment and build-up that can cause faulty level readings and clogs.  Bacterial treatments break down the waste and control odors just like a municipal treatment plant, however, they are less effective at high temperatures typically above 90 degrees.  Thetford, Dometic, and others have introduced enzyme-based treatments that do break down the waste, but do nothing for the odor so an additive is introduced which creates other strong scents that may be annoying.  If you are sensitive to flowery scents, I would recommend trying a few to make sure you can tolerate the scent.  Do not use household products like bleach, pine based cleaners, or others as it will cause a rotten egg odor and not break down the waste.  Some products contain formaldehyde which is very effective however very caustic and prohibited in some states.

Bathroom Materials

With the recent events of the world, toilet paper has become almost as precious as gold?  With the shelves empty at every store across the country for the first few months of the pandemic it made me wonder; “what were these people using before?”  Using the correct toilet paper in your RV is important as the typical residential brands do not break down and can clog your system.  Even brands that are considered “septic approved” are not good for your RV.  We conducted a test of several brands including RV specific and septic tank approved and the best for dissolving quickly was Thetford and Campco.  The paper needs to dissolve quickly or it will cling on the sidewall of the tank and give a false monitor panel reading, or clog the valve.

You can find more information on recommended nitrate gloves for dumping, black water flushing systems, and dumping procedures at www.rvrepairclub.com

Conduct a short “Shake Down Cruise”

Whether you bought from a dealer or private individual you more than likely got a quick walk around the unit showing how things worked buy like most of us, if you remember 10% it would be on the high side!  Too many new RVers fill their rigs up with bedding, food, and toys and expect to head out to the campground or boondocks and run things just like home.  Unfortunately most encounter something that does not work or even breaks down.  A large volume of service calls are owners that do not understand how a system works and need help.  It’s a good idea to park the unit somewhere close to home and spend some time getting the refrigerator to operate on both 120-volt power and propane.  Run all the LP appliances, entertainment systems, and make sure you know how to get the TV antenna working and a channel search if you want to use the TV and or satellite dish.

The water system can be a bit confusing as well, knowing how it works with the on-demand water pump and freshwater tank vs pressurized water from the city fill AND making sure all the drain valves are closed!  I remember taking a new unit on a training trip many years ago and filling up in Corpus Christi for a weekend on the Padre Island beach and hearing the sound of running water.  Looking under the coach you could see a half dozen streams of water pouring out.  Since it was a new prototype, there was no manual and I had to look underneath to find the stream, go inside and guess where the valve was and do this for every valve.  One valve was actually located underneath the wardrobe’s false floor that was stapled down.  That was later changed in production.

Taking the steps to get the right equipment, knowing how to connect to the campground, and how systems work will make for a much more enjoyable RVing experience.

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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What You Need In Your RV Toolbox

06 Tuesday Aug 2019

Posted by in RV Information, Tech Tips

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What you need in your rv toolbox

Most RV enthusiasts start with a basic assortment of tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, and sockets. The more you travel, and the more comfortable you get with doing some of your own maintenance and repairs, the more you “customize” your toolbox for your rig and level of experience. Just as there are hundreds of different types of RVs, there are a wide assortment of tools that can be used to do the job so there is not one “standard” list of tools that will be right for every RVer.  However, here is a list that is a good reference to get you started on your journey to the “Ultimate Toolbox”.

Basics

  • Screwdrivers – Philips/flat head (three different sizes but definitely #2 phillips head)
  • Pliers – Large and small
  • Channel Lock Pliers
  • Needle Nose Pliers
  • Side Cutter
  • Tin Snips
  • Wire Stripper/cutter
  • Socket Sets –  ¼” – 3/8” – Some ½” for larger projects like lug nuts – SAE & Metric ( I also carry a set of deep well sockets – 3/8”)
  • Multi-bit set with Torx, #2 Philips, and others
  • Assorted Drill Bits
  • Wrench Set – Open End/Box End – SAE & Metric
  • Cordless Screw Gun/Charger
  • Electric Screw Gun (Just In Case!)
  • Blow Hammer
  • Regular Hammer
  • Crescent Wrench – 2 sizes
  • Razor Knife
  • Vise Grips
  • Tire Gauge
  • Bubble Level
  • Plumbers Tape
  • Gloves
  • LED Flashlight
  • Shop Towels
  • Hand Cleaner/Sanitizer

Electrical

  • Duct Tape
  • Black Electrical Tape
  • Rescue Tape
  • 12-volt Test Light
  • Digital MultimeterDigital Multimeter
  • Non Contact Voltage Tester
  • Battery Terminal Cleaner/Sealant
  • Assorted Wire Terminals/Wire Nuts
  • Wire – 10 ga/12 ga
  • Assorted Bulbs
  • Assorted Fuse
  • Extra 120-volt Outlet/GFCI
  • Battery Filler/Distilled Water
  • Zip Ties
  • Certified Tire Gauge
  • GFCI Outlet Tester
  • Voltage Tester – Surge Guard
  • AmWatt – Amperage Guage
  • 10 Gauge Extension Cord (Note: used for tools only)

Emergency

  • Roadside Emergency Kit – Flares, Triangles, etc
  • Jumper Cables
  • Portable 12-volt Booster/Air Compressor
  • First Aid Kit
  • Fire Extinguishers
  • Fuel Can – empty
  • Floor Jack – Note: make sure it is rated for your weight and you consult your owner’s manual for proper placement and lifting the rig.  Most RVers purchase roadside assistance and let someone else wrestle with the wheel!

Fluids/Sealants

  • Oil
  • Transmission Fluid
  • Hydraulic Fluid (slide room motor and jacks)
  • Brake Fluid
  • Antifreeze
  • Windshield Washer Fluid
  • CRC Silicone Spray
  • Self-Leveling Lap Seal designed for roof material
  • Fluid Film

Customized Items

Conduct a thorough walk through inside and out to see what “specialized” fasteners and other items your rig may have such as torx head screws, allen head, or even pop rivets?  This is something that will be a work in progress as you come across items that are unique and it will prompt you to wonder; “why did they use that?!”

  • Wind Speed Indicator – AC/Heater Air Flow
  • Level Check – LP Level Tester
  • Magnet Source – Magnetizer/Demagnetizer
  • Puck Wrench
  • Milk Crate – great for carrying tools as well as a stool!
  • PEX Water Line & Fittings – Hose Cutter
  • Winegard Satellite Finder
  • Intellitec Water Purity Tester
  • Infrared Temperature Gauge
  • BullsEye Rock Chip Repair Kit
  • Crow Bar

Miscellaneous 

  • Barkeepers Friend
  • ProtectAll Surface Cleaner
  • Bleach
  • Dawn Dish Soap

Tool Box

There are a variety of tool boxes and containers, I personally use a variety of items starting with the soft bag with pouches around the side and a handle in the middle.  This has a basic assortment of often used tools.  For smaller electrical items I have a Stanley “Sortmaster” organizer.  All other tools are stored in a Craftsman tool bag.

As you become familiar with the various maintenance items such as the plug for the water heater, you will start to add tools.  Atwood uses a 1 1/16” plug while Suburban uses a 7/8” one.  You will probably add items like nut drivers, putty knives, heat gun, clamps, worm clamps and other items.  As stated before, no two toolboxes are alike…have fun in designing your own!

To ensure you have easy access to this handy checklist, feel free to download, print, and share with your RVing friends.

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.

RV ProtectAww Shucks!

Carl S.~ “The service was well- handled, on time, great service and great follow-ups. Also, everyone I spoke to was very kind! “

3 Things to Toss in Your RV Toolbox

08 Thursday Mar 2018

Posted by in RV Information

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RV ToolboxEvery RVer has a typical toolbox. After all, it would be pretty difficult to get along without such basic tools as a screwdriver, hammer, and one or more pairs of pliers. Things break, and while fixing them isn’t usually too difficult, some tools are required. This means it is only sensible to always keep these types of tools on hand.

That said, the most seasoned RVers have added to the basics over the years. New repairs crop up and new items creep in, and eventually the well-traveled RVer’s toolbox is quite full and incredibly useful.

Here are a few of the unusual, yet super handy products you might find floating around in just such a toolbox. Toss them into yours, and you’ll be well-prepared no matter what may come up.

Eternabond Tape

If you have ever had a roof tear, you know what a pain it can be to patch. This is where Eternabond tape steps in. This tape, originally made for the roofs of houses, is so incredibly strong that is holds up through all sorts of weather and looks no worse for the wear. It is the perfect solution for those who aren’t a fan of messy, frustrating patch kits, and can even be used to reseal around vents or skylights in a pinch.

Gorilla Tape

Okay, so this is one we have all heard of, but have you tried it? This stuff is incredible. Gorilla Tape holds up to tons of abuse, making it ideal for short-term heavy-duty fixes. It has proven invaluable for patching a leaky hose when we couldn’t get a new one right away, and was perfect when we needed to hold a window closed despite its broken locking mechanism. Heck, I think this tape would probably even hold up a broken bit on the outside of your RV until you could get to a shop.

Plasti-Mend Black

A leaking fresh, gray, or black tank can be a real nightmare. After all, replacing a tank entirely costs hundreds of dollars, and most people don’t have that kind of money just sitting around.

Often this leads RVers to attempt to mend the crack or hole themselves. Unfortunately, the typical super adhesives out there just won’t work, and using them will probably only make the crack grow bigger.

Fortunately, there’s Plasti-Mend. This stuff is less than pleasant to work with. It’s gooey and it smells bad, but it does work. It does this by chemically welding the plastic back together and it comes out stronger than ever once the repair is complete. This means the repair is permanent, and replacement is completely unnecessary once the Plasti-Mend has been applied.

 By stocking up on these products and ensuring your toolbox is always ready to go, you will be ready to fix — or at least patch — a large number of potential issues. Go ahead and start shopping now, so you can continue your adventures even when problems arise.

About the Author:

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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