Rving Forums

Winter in Branson

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 21:53:38 -0500

We are considering spending the winter in Branson, Missouri. I've read probably all of the recent post on cold-weather RVing and all the things we need to watch out for. I'm wondering if there is anyone out there who has spent the winter in Branson. I'd like to hear of your experience, including what type of rig you have, how cold did it get, how long did it stay that cold, any issues you had personally with your rig and the cold weather, etc.

Thanks.

Rantoul Truck Show

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 19:45:32 -0500

Dropped by the Truck Show in Rantoul, IL this afternoon. I took a bunch of pictures, but I am not about to try to post them on dial up so ya'll will have to wait.

The I65 Chrome Shop had their racing truck there and ran it out on the tarmac. Lots of diesel smoke, squealing tires and tire smoke. At least it was entertaining.

Just a reminder that people are paying attention. I stopped by the Central IL trucks booth. They sell KW and Volvo. Got to talking to the salesman and must have said the magic words. "So you are the guy with the Freightliner with the big sleeper and moving van RV." I asked where he saw it and he said Escapees. All I am saying is be careful what you wish for!

There were some simply gorgeous trucks and they also had a wash and show category for working trucks that just came off of the road, cleaned them up and brought them to the show.

Off to Bontragger's in White Pigeon, MI in the morning for more parts!

See ya on the road.

Michelin 23580R22.5 replacement

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 17:20:34 -0500

I want to replace my current Michelin 235/80R/22.5 XRV tires due to cracking sidewalls, I would prefer not to replace them with the same, the Rims are 22.5x6.75 ,is there some other safe options out there ? Thank You in advance

Help! Should I replace my tires?

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 13:54:18 -0500

We are purchasing a used 2007 Teton Reliance fifth wheel, model XT-4 which needs to be hauled from Tacoma Washington to our home in New Jersey. WooHoo! One step closer to retirement on the road! The technician we hired to inspect it reports that the unit appears to have been parked and lived in rather than towed a lot. The tires are the original Goodyear G-rated with codes that indicate they were made in 2005. The tech states that the tires appear to be in good condition with no evidence of checking from exposure to sunlight. Nevertheless, we are nervous about having this unit hauled almost 3,000 miles without replacing all tires. Are we being overly concerned? Anyone have experience regarding how long we should expect tires to be reliable? I know that no one has a crystal ball big enough to give us a definitive answer, but comments from experienced Escapee members will help us do a sanity check on our thinking.

Many thanks,
Dottie

Radio Wiring Harness

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 13:22:22 -0500

Anyone know if Crutchfield has the ISO-DIN wiring harness for a 2006 Volvo 780 for an aftermarket CD-Receiver? If so what is the part number? Think someone posted it once before but search couldn't locate. Here is a picture, it is the bottom one.
http://www.bigrigstereo.com/volvo_white_gmc.html If you purchase from Crutchfield they throw in the harness and installation kit for free. When I talked to them on the phone, they said they didn't have a reference for the harness so couldn't help. Thought if I had a number would be easier.

Giving away Oct 2009 printed Days End directory

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 12:51:50 -0500

I am giving away a printed copy of the October 2009 Days End directory to the first Escapees member who wants it. I have recently printed the June 2010 version and no longer need this one.

In order to print the document, I made some modifications to it to save paper. This printed version does not include any of the "Good Guys" listings, nor any listings in Canada. I reformatted the guide to have three columns on a page, and the type is in 8-point Times Roman font. It is about 150 pages long, printed double sided on white 8.5 x 11 paper.

The guide is spiral bound with a clear plastic cover. I have made a few notes in it in pen.

Rather than reimburse me for the postage costs, may I suggest that you make a donation to Escapee's CARE program instead? Postage will be around $2, but you might consider donating more than that to CARE because it is such a great service that we provide. If care doesn't float your boat, a donation to the Red Cross would be a nice alternative.

PM me if you are interested. Please include your Escapee's member number.

Thanks,
Louise

Mexico

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 12:18:26 -0500

Last night on 48 hours , they ran the story of a San Diego family that was pulled over and held at gun point , while returning from a trip to Cabo in there fith wheel.It has aired before , this happened in 2007 . Soon many of you will be coming to the southwest for the winter and I urge you to reconsider your trips accross the border . Border town violence is at an all time high , and No bargain is worth putting your family at risk . Mexico is a beautiful country , and has some great hard working folks , however they are not the ones controling the country . The Drug Lords as well as corupt police are , and as such make it unsafe for travel for Americans. Have a Great Day..Scott .

Alaska's Roads Reviewed 2010

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 10:44:54 -0500

Just back from a 3-month tour of Alaska, 2010

Here are some details of the Top of the World Highway, the Cassiar Highway, and others you may be interested in.

TWH:

** Gravel most of the way, but in good shape provided it doesn't rain. We placed a screen over the front of our vehicle in an effort to reduce dings from other vehicles. That worked�verified 3 rock hits which may have done some damage without the protection. Who knows?

** Smoke reduced visibility. Around Tok, AK, fires raged which reduced the visibility around the low-lying areas (valleys).

** Dusty. If dry, then dust was a major problem for those who had engine filters picking up new air next to the road, under the vehicle. (those motorhome pusher types sucking air from below) For those with cowlings on the side, it's not as bad, and those who have pickups or filters in the front it's a minor problem.

** Rain makes mud, and you're likely to be really dirty. In addition, the patrol closed the road shortly after we went through because the road washed out in places. Cheers.

Cassiar Highway:

** 99% of this highway is now paved. A few sections are gravel as crews were repairing or finishing the pavement�about 10 miles. It's a slow-go because of the winding road, up and down hill, but manageable in large vehicles and tows. This is a beautiful trip as is the TWH. No special equipment is necessary here. Unfortunately, as with all roads in the wilderness, this one washed out in one area just after we left as well. You'll pay your money and take your chance on any road, I'm sure.

Alaskan Highway from Tok to Haines:

** This road is the most miserable road I've ever been on. It's paved 99 % of the way, construction being that 1% not paved. But, the frost-heaves combined with the dips, bumps, patches, and such not only bounce you fore and aft but sideways as well. At best, we traveled 20mph during the first segment. Anything more was asking for trouble. Of course, frost-heaves occur in many of these Alaskan roads and many are not marked. A place just south of this area specialized in axel replacement. Duh! Most of these difficult crossings, damage on the road, etc. were marked via red flags. When they mean damage, they are not kidding. But, some sneek up on the idiots traveling at break-neck speeds.

The road to McCarthy and Kennecott:

** Take the tour!!! This road from the main junction to McCarthy and Kennecott is a disaster unless you pay the tour company. The $178 for two saved the broken window, damaged fenders from rocks, broken axels and springs, and kept the vehicle in tact. Bolts and screws have a habit of loosening. Besides the really large potholes, stones with sharp edges, mud, dust, sticks and such, it's a great trip. Cell service may not be possible in many of these areas, so if you choose to drive, be prepared to service your own. Also, payment to cross the bridge is necessary as it's private. Therefore, pay the money, enjoy the 90 mile trip. Remember that 90 in also means 90 out.

From Hyder to and beyond the Salmon Glacier, as well as Fish Creek:

** Dirt, mud, gravel. It's an easy trip if it's not raining, but the warning is not to travel to the glacier when it's raining or just rained. Not only is the shoulder straight down for upwards of hundreds of feet, but the road sometimes washes out. If you are on the wrong side, you'll be there for a few days. Take plenty of food, water, and a tent if you plan on doing this in the rain. This road is steep, should be traveled with a 4x4, and slowly. Traveling to the end of the road is a beautiful trip where one might see bear, moose, wolf, the Salmon glacier and others as well as the now defunct mine. It's well-worth the 30 or so miles 1-way. Don't forget your passport. You'll need it coming back from Hyder AK to Stewart, BC. No customs from Stewart to Hyder.

Dalton Highway:

** It's a long way to Prudhoe Bay, be brave and take a tour. Gravel, dusty, muddy, and it might be best if you take this tour and let someone bang his/her car to death. See the previous statement for McCarthy and Kennecott.

White Pass:

** Heading down this steep mountain into Skagway is a treat. Almost as beautiful as the Cassiar Highway, but really downhill. Be sure you are in LOW gear, really low gear if you are a big rig. We hit it a little hard, I wish we were down another gear. No damage, or worries, but, why take the chance?

OK, enjoy your foray, be safe.

Mike

Need advice on satellite antenna purchase.

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 10:22:46 -0500

I am considering upgrading my Triple E class C to a newer unit so will be installing a satellite antenna on the new unit.

My existing class C has a Motosat automatic that has been generally trouble free but is starting to require multiple attempts to lock-on.

I currently have an older Winegard crank up on my fifth wheel so I am experienced and competent with it and am not afraid of getting another crank-up....assuming Winegard has solved the "nodding" lost signal problem in a windy or breezy condition.

I have studied both of Winegard's domes....the larger, flatter one and the smaller, higher one. Both of these are available in stationary or mobil configuration. Is the reception similar between these two antennas? I assume the rain caused signal degradation would be less with the higher, dome shaped model.....right? Any other considerations between these two. They are similarly priced.

In a nutshell...my options seem to be:
Winegard crank-up.
Motosat or Winegard automatic.
Winegard larger, lower profile dome.......stationary or mobil
Winegard smaller, higher profile dome.......stationary or mobil.

Would really appreciate any suggestions,

Thanks

Open Invitation

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 09:42:51 -0500

Indiana Chapter 51 will be holding our annual Fall Rally immediately following the Escapade and at the same place, Elkhart County Fairgrounds. We welcome all Skp's and guest. This rally is perfect for those wanting to extend their stay in the Goshen area. You may register in person at the rally on the 17th from 1pm - 3pm. Our rally ends on the 20th so it is a shorter than usual rally, perfect for most travelers. Rally fees are a mere $8 per rig! You may obtain a copy of our Agenda and registration form off of our Indiana website.Indiana Website

We extend a big hug and Hoosier Neighbor welcome. Hope to see you soon.......
hugs,
Stan Bober
Chapter 51 Webmaster

Need Someone in Tucson area

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 09:08:28 -0500

We re considering purchasing a used Hydralift for our motorhome that is located in the Tucson area. Is there anyone in that area
that coud go and take a look at it for us. We are on the WA coast and would make a quick trip down to pick it up, and of course,
have dinner with our new friends who were kind enough to take a look at it for us. Just hate to buy it sight unseen. Thanks

Best cell phone to replace air card

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 04:17:30 -0500

I'm trying to simplify life and consolidate electronic gadgets. My cell phone contract with Verizon is now on a month to month basis and air card contract will expire shortly.

I'd like to get a cell phone that can be used to operate my laptop on the internet and dump the $60 a month aircard. Does anybody have any good suggestions that are simple to operate and don't require a bunch of extra gadgets?

How about the Palm Pre Plus? It's a hot spot so I assume it can be used without any other fees besides the $29.95 typical smart phone fees (data package).

Any other suggestions? Not really into texting as I don't like the little bitty buttons.

Thanks!

Cape Lookout State Park

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 23:33:38 -0500

If you know you're going to be in the area, this is a great park. Because it was full, my pup and I spent the day in the day use area ($5. very well spent) hiking and enjoying a picnic lunch. It's a beautiful park. I stumbled on it by mistake. Had I known about it I would have made reservations far in advance.
Cape Lookout

Styles of Full-Timing

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 21:56:01 -0500

Styles of Full-Timing

I�ve been thinking about this and can only come up with Three basic Styles of Full-Time RVers. Now I know some RVers drift from one style to another a little.

My question is, �Are there any other Styles I�m missing then these three below?�

��1)��Travel year round from place to place following the weather and their interests.

��2) Work Campers going from one gig to another, spending at least 2 months at a gig.

��3)��Taking up residents in an RV Park Full Time. Either staying in one Park year round or moving between two or three Parks.

What am I missing?

Monument Valley Travel Info

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 21:49:41 -0500

My wife and I are planning our trip this October to Monument Valley. We have made reservations at Gouldings RV Park, the only place we could find. Unfortunately, we will only have one day to see as much of the area as we can. I know that isn�t much time but it isn't cheap to stay there and we have to get on down to TX for our winter state park hosting gig.

Can some of you give me information on:

Tours (both self-guided and guided) Recommendations?
Places to get diesel.
Restaurants
Etc, Etc.

Thanks in advance for any help.

Questions bout "Hoss"

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:18:10 -0500

Just got Hoss out of the shop in Knoxville for warranty inspection and couple small items needed fixing. Central Carolina Trucks stood behind the truck and paid for the fixes. Have nothing but good to say about them so far. Had couple of things I wanted checked out but didn't seem to get resolved. Thought maybe someone on here would have ideas. #1 At between 40-50 mph notice slight "shudder" or "wobble" in truck that you can actually see shake the hood. Disappears at lower or higher speeds. Shop said suspension in good shape but "knuckles" may need shimming or replacing. Alignment ok. What do they mean? Question #2 Noticed on drive home (~20 miles) Air Conditioner worked fine at speeds and recirc kept cool air flowing but when I slowed and truck downshifted fan would decrease in velocity and cool air would decrease for 10-15 secs then resume. Is this normal or am I in for big problems? Thanks for any help.

Need a HWH jack

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 19:49:45 -0500

I am in the process of purchasing a 2005 Coachman Sportscoach Elite 40'DP. The owner has removed the RF jack because it wouldn't come up. The coach was parked at a ski area for the winter and thinking he would get a new one in the Spring when he brought it down from the mountain would you believe he threw it in the trash. Now a divorce has come along and it is for sale at a VERY good price. Camping World has it and they are finding HWH jacks are on backorder.

Do any of you fellows know of any RV recyclers that might have a jack for it? Its 10,000# front and 32,000# rear rated. Right now I don't have the part number but if Camping World can't come up with one pretty quick I need to find one.

Jim

Allison 3200 temps

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 19:46:02 -0500

We have a "08" M2 with the 8.3 Cummins rated at 330hp, with the Allison3200 tranny. This tranny is rated right at 1000fpt, when pulling a grade, my tranny temps get between 200 and 225 during the duration of the climb, and then will drop to around 175 or so. This has been the case since the truck was new, should I be concerned. All the fluids are the top of the line as well as the filters. Bruce

WWOOF & SFI volunteering?

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 19:13:59 -0500

Anyone here done the WWOOF or SFI programs? Been considering trying these out in the NW since so many give free room/board (or hookups for RVers) in exchange for the organic farm work, something I find fulfilling and interesting.

Toilet Maint

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 18:29:49 -0500

Ok,

So we have had our 5er since new and it's now 6 years old. About 6 months ago the toilet started not holding water in the bowl. It is a porcelain SeaLand toilet, 50/511 series. Anyway, it is clear the seals on the ball need to be replaced is all. My question is this about the life span of the seals on the ball, or is there something you can do to extend the life of the seals?

GlobeSurfer III

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:56:40 -0500

I stumbled on the "GlobeSurfer III" in my never ending quest to solve our mobile internet connectivity problem. Anyone have experience with this device? We have been using an AT&T aircard for years and are looking for a way to network our RV internet connection.

how to retrieve toilet brush from RV tank?

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:12:33 -0500

anyone else ever done this? C'mon--admit it ;~}

I can see the brush when I empty my tank, but it's not accessible from there.

I have a '79 Chinook on a Dodge Sportsman chassis--how easy would it be to remove the gray or black water tanks?

I also think my fresh water tank may be leaking, so I may have to remove that as well--any tips?

Input needed for proposed gated 55-plus RV community

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:04:06 -0500

My wife and I live in southern California and we are among the countless hordes who have been deeply affected by the state of the economy. We worked hard, lived within our means, saved and planned for the future, and by all accounts, did everything right. But after all said and done, I am frustrated, saddened and devastated by the realization that everything we have worked for and accumulated all our lives are now worth squat, and the dreams we have had about retirement have turned into an absolute nightmare. And I am willing to bet there are more readers of this Forum who are in the same boat than there are who are still completely financially secure and totally unscathed by these events.

A friend in the exact same situation told me they actually considered getting rid of their RV but found he would have to sell it at a loss. He added if they would end up having to sell their house also, they would then really be screwed. He said he only wished there was an affordable site where they could park and live, because it would be a practical solution to many problems, bring long-term peace of mind, and restore some quality of life.

That really got me thinking, and as a result I am looking into the feasibility of developing a gated, 55-plus RV community, aimed at ordinary folks like us. The goal would be to offer a comfortable, easily accessibly spot in a safe environment at a realistic price. I am really not interested in including a golf course or any such high-end social amenities. There are numerous resorts out there already that cater to that market. I envision a facility with decent landscaping, common areas for social interaction, and maybe some basic leisure activities. Personally, I would much rather have practical stuff like a concierge service to take care of mail forwarding and the like, instead of a weight room or hair salon.

Sites will be wired for telephone and cable, and metered electricity, with water and sewer or septic hookup. All sites will be angled for easy in and out. Most will be back-in, and some will be pull-through. At this time I do not see allowing structures on a site other than say an 8X10 or so storage shed.

What I would like from all of you, please, are ideas, suggestions and input on the type of amenities you would like to see in a facility of this nature. Keep in mind, though, that the objective is to create a practical, cost-effective facility. As is the case with a condo or townhouse complex, each site will be bought outright, and then some amount of Association Dues will be payable in addition to that. Those dues will cover stuff like common area maintenance, concierge service and the like. I am asking you, as full time RVers, to tell me what you would like to have provided and covered. But again, remember that the idea is to create an appreciating asset for yourself and other like-minded owners who share the same interests. The more we add the more it will cost. And I see no point in trading your mortgage payment for a Dues payment.

I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to your positive responses. Thanks!

Need Inspection pro for pending 5er purchase in WA

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 11:31:01 -0500

We've been away from this forum for a couple of years, but looks like we will now be regulars.
Bob and I are about to pull the trigger on a large 5er located in the Tacoma area. Problem is, we live in New Jersey. Can anyone give me a recommendation for a qualified technician in the Tacoma area whom we can hire to perform an inspection on this unit prior to our attempt to concluding the deal and moving it cross-country? Same question regarding referral to reputable transport companies to move it from WA to NJ. Any suggestions much appreciated. We're on a fast track on this one with lots of homework to do in a very short amount of time.

Thanks,
Dottie

Yellowstone

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 11:16:38 -0500

We are headed to Yellowstone around Labor Day. Suggestions on where to park a 40 foot motorhome would be appreciated.

Thank you.

Jack placement

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 07:16:08 -0500

Hi Everyone,

Where is the best place to put a jack when working on your HDT ? The best front location ? The best rear location ? I will be using a bottle jack. I know a bottle jack is not the best choice but that is all I have. The jack size is 20 ton.

Thank you for any help,
Al

Chassis Battery Dead - Brake Controller?

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 20:52:17 -0500

Twice now I have noticed the trailer brake controller light blinking after we have been parked for extended periods (months). This is a '99 Class A gasser, Dolphin. The fist time I found a box had been moved against the brake pedal. Battery was dead. Ended up replacing the battery.

This time there was nothing near the pedal. I tapped the pedal a few times but it kept blinking. Had to go to work and forgot about it. This evening the chassis battery is dead, D-E-A-D.

The controller was on the coach when we bought it. I am not familiar with its operation or wiring. Since we do not pull a trailer I am considering removing it, or at least cutting the wires. It is a Tekonsha Sentinel. There are five lights in a row, the leftmost is green, the others are red. The green one was blinking. We are not moving anytime soon, so it is not a huge problem, but would like to get it fixed.

Any ideas??

Honda 200i for boondocking ?

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 20:43:12 -0500

We were planning on boondocking for a couple of weeks & using our Honda 2000I Generator.
I have never used it for that long a period & was wondering if anyone had any problems running a 50 AMP
power cord from the 5th wheel to the generator ? I know we can't run a whole lot of things inside, but all I
want is to keep the batteries charged, lights, & TV.

mileage as a daily driver

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 20:08:08 -0500

looking at an 07 M2106 with the MB900-330 in it.

Curious about such a truck as a daily driver. My 08 F450 has 78000 miles on it and I love it but this truck is drop dead beautiful. Can you drive such a truck routinely as a daily driver?

Interstate mileage running light?

Where do you finance it?

Where do you insure it?

Lifetime Membership

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:26:12 -0500

Can't find any info or prices about it. Anyone?

RV Parks or Places to Boondock on the Jersey Coast

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 18:35:26 -0500

I have just returned to my home state of New Jersey for the first time in 40 year, the state where I was born and raised, where we went to many wonderful sea shore resorts in the summer, Before I got on the Ferry from Delaware to New Jersey, which I didn't even know existed until a couple of days ago, I started getting quite emotional. And as we neared the Cape May Point, the southern most tip of NJ, where our and another home town family stayed one summer, I had a very emotional experience about all this, which quite surprised me. There's something about "going home" after a very long time which makes for quite an experience. I immediately tried contacting any family or home town friend I could find to share it with. And found I really cool guy from junior high school, who had basically lived in the area all his life, took over his father's business, married for 30 years with 3 kids. We talked on and on for some 90 minutes just like it was yesterday. It was all quite an emotional experience, you would have thought I was a refuge returning to my homeland after having been exiled long ago, or something. It was quite remarkable and I was not expecting it.

Anyways, what I wanted to ask is if we know of any good spots to either boondock or RV resorts to stay out -- that are actually right in the sea shore areas themselves, such as Ocean City, Long Beach Island, Ashbury Park, etc. Driving up from Cape May to Atlantic City along the 9 Highway, I have seen already many RV resorts on Highway 9, but I'm talking about ones on the other side of the respective bridges, right in the resort areas themselves. Know of any? They wouldn't let me overnight park at the Cape May ferry parking lot, unlike in Carolinas where they would at the island destination, or at the Virginia Wild Refuge Center right off the Cheasapeake Bay - up to 48 hours per the sign. But the security guard did point out a new place for me, probably not for most others -- the Wawa stations, have RV and trucking spots pretty much at most of the stations and will allow overnighters there.

Best, Ron

1984 v8 8.2 dd

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:56:05 -0500

well the sportscoach i was pondering sold, so i am now looking at a 1984 35ft diesel, front engine, Foretravel. has a HD Allison 4sp auto. also has a tag with air. now i no nothing about the V8 8.2 DD, sooo does anybody have any good or bad to say about the engine and or Foretravel?? come on folks bring it on. thanks

Outlaw

Fiver's left rear wheel bearing siezes and wheel comes off

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:14:51 -0500

I had quite an experience coming out of Louisville Sunday. The left rear wheel bearing on the fiver seized, broke the brake drum and dropped the axle to the pavement while I was cruising out of town on I-64 at about 65 mph. I felt a "bump" but other than that the Volvo never burped to let me know what had happened. Now, if I had been in my PU the damaged trailer would have taken control of the truck, which is not good. Thankfully a passing motorist started blowing his horn and waving for me to pull over. That is when I discovered the missing wheel.

The rest of the story is the road assistance truck dispatched by Coach Net went back and found the wheel. The axle was chained up and I limped to Ted Stinnett RV across the Indiana border Sunday night.

Ted just happened to drive by his dealership and saw us on his lot. He stopped and then put us in one of his full hook-up "emergency" sites. 50 amp electric, water and sewer. We ended up spending two nights there at no charge.

I sent an e-mail to Cedar Creek with some photos Sunday night. The next morning at 8 a.m. Dale Brubaker from CC called me and said he would send two new axles down from the factory, which is about 270 miles north. Around 6:00 p.m. Monday a really super mechanic from Lippert pulled up with a big Dodge dually and proceeded to install two new axles and springs.

The wheel that came off was OK, but the tire was cut.

Ted Stinnett ordered a new Maxxis tire of the same size and and tread as my original, fixed the body damage so the fiver was usable and we were on the road again by 2:00 Tuesday. I simply cannot say enough good things about Ted Stinnett RV and Cedar Creek. They were tremendously responsive. Cedar Creek is covering the cost of all the damages.

The seized wheel bearing was a Lippert Nev-R-Lube that was still under their 2 year warranty. The replacement axles are NOT the same type. They have a grease fitting under a rubber cap. Cedar Creek has discontinued use of the Nev-R-Lube axles.

Having a tow vehicle that weighs more than what is behind you is a good thing. The trailer is not going to take control of the truck -- an experience I have been through twice before with a PU.

The brakes on the new axles did not work properly. I could barely tell they were there and don't think I was getting any benefit from them. Again, having the Volvo was a plus since it had more than enough brake power to compensate for the loss of the fiver brakes.

Cedar Creek offered to come get the fiver from Richmond and bring it to their factory for repairs. I declined and will have our original dealership in Richmond do the repairs. That way I can still use the fiver until all the parts arrive. The entire fiberglass end cap, ladder, lower faring, LR slide-out braces, plastic belly panels, LR window in the slide out, the errant wheel and wheel faring will have to be replaced.

Once again, I am extremely grateful to have been towing with the Volvo rather than my GMC 3500 dually. I believe I would have had some serious control issues with the pick-up.

East Coast Tire Dealers? 235 80R 22.5 XZE

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:15:39 -0500

Time to buy truck tires. We normally travel west of the Mississippi but find ourselves on the east coast for 2 years. The last set of tires we bought in 2005 at Les Schwab in Missoula MT. Excellent service and no complaints with the tires.

I checked Costco, Sams and Walmart on line and they did not have my size 235 80R 22.5 XZE

Any recommendations for a tire dealer in Asheville, NC or Spartanburg, SC?

Thank you.

2006 Winnebago Itasca Ellipse

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 15:17:46 -0500

We are brand new to Rving and have been reading and looking for a while now. So here is my question can anyone tell me the good the bad and ugly about a 2006 Winnebago Itasca Ellipse Series M-40FD We are currently looking at one that has less than 5000 miles on it. The pictures look great but haven't seen it yet in person.
The price is around $146000.00

Thanks for any help
Peg

On Line Truck Tire Sales Web Page

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:32:39 -0500

Is there a place like Tire Rack where you can buy tires for our big boy toys on line and then have them shipped to you?

Dennis

using invengrter while drivi

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:04:59 -0500

We want to use our crock pot, in the sink, while driving. To do this we want to drive with the inverter on. Is this OK?
Thank you.
J.D.

VNL670 Performed Flawlessly

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:17:32 -0500

This is mostly for the lurkers and newbies wanting to know about the HDT as a RV hauler -- I know the OT's on this thread have been here and done that.

We started July 5th. This was our first extended trip with our '04 Volvo 670 towing our Cedar Creek 34SATS fifth wheel. The GMC 3500 dually that had worked so hard on previous trips looked very sad and forlorn sitting in our driveway as we left her behind. We went from Richmond down into to NC, SC and back to Richmond. Then to Louisville, KY and parts of IN and back home. All of this was with the VNL670 that had been to the moon and back once and was ready to start back to earth on it's second trip (mileage wise). The big diesel just purred along not even knowing the 15,000# fiver was behind it. In fact, I occasionally had to check the rear view mirror to be sure it was still back there

The flat lands of North Carolina and South Carolina (we were east of I-95 most of the time) were no challenge for the Volvo. But, parts of Virginia and West Virginia gave her a good work out. Several grades were marked at 7% and considerably long - both up and down. We literally rocketed by pick-ups pulling similar sized fifth wheel trailers and motor homes blowing black diesel smoke out their pipes straining to get over the mountains and down the other side. We rarely had to use the air brakes downhill as the exhaust and compression brake did 95% of the braking. I stayed in 10th gear all the way except on one grade where I had to slow down for someone in front passing a slow trucker. I had to grab 8th and then shift to 9th to finish the incline after loosing my preferred torque range RPM's. The big, long 7% grades were finished off at about 55 mph in top gear after hitting them at 65 or 70 mph at the bottom. Our overall fuel mileage was not what I wanted, but 8.6 mpg for the entire trip is acceptable for our 36,000#'s and the mountains.

No problems with weight stations or LEO's. We blew by every weight station but one that was a mandatory brake check for all vehicles over 26,000# at the top of a long 7% downgrade in WV. There was one inspector randomly checking for hot brakes and air pressure hold/bleed off. He just flagged us on. The two runaway truck ramps on the way down appeared to have been recently used. I would hate to hit one of those! In fact, the only second looks were in the campgrounds where people gathered like we were a traveling circus sideshow to look. I chatted with a couple of nice professional truckers along the way that were impressed by our "camper".

I met one class 8 camper at Emerald Isle hauling with a Peterbuilt. We saw two others on the highway going the opposite direction. Quite a few MDT haulers coming and going to the rally in Louisville.

On the way home yesterday, as we were crossing some of those West Virginia mountains, I grabbed my Olympus camera and switched it to movie mode. I held the camera with my right hand and steered with my left. Most of the time the camera was over my head. I was surprised that on the video playback the noise inside the cab appeared so loud. I think it is the sensitivity of the camera microphone because it is much, much quieter in real life. Please, no grief about my speed. I stayed under the posted limit but was over the fuel efficient 55 mph.

If you want to watch/listen to my in-cab video you will find it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj7hXNfoVDY" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj7hXNfoVDY

Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:14:45 -0500

We are heading for Sam Rayburn Reservoir near Lufkin TX. This is on the eastern edge of TX about mid state. I have been told that its a beautiful area. We are looking for some info as far as good CG's in the area that will accomodate our 39' fiver. I have looked into Woodalls and have located some, but its always better to get first hand knowledge if its out there. The COE parks do list a couple of parks that should accomodate us, but never stayed at one. Heard pro's and cons on them.

Anyone out there that can help? Thanks in advance.

Dave & linda

Truck Conversions Gone wild... DIALUP WARNING many pictures

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:44:34 -0500

Kenny Wallace and Kenny Schrader were in town (West Fargo, ND) Racing USMTS Modifieds on Dirt!

Tonight Tony Stewart and Donny Schatz roll in with "all Star Sprints" show.

Last night I helped a friend in the pits with his super stock, how they lure me back to that dark side of my past I don't know. Must resist that racing itch..

I had some time so I walked the pits and took some pictures of the Truck conversions, enjoy.... I wish there was a way to draw those guys to a forum, they must know all about the nuances of the Truck Conversions as they live, roll, and pull to the max their T/C's 100's of nights and tens of thousands of miles per year.

enjoy

Back in TX

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:15:13 -0500

Made it back to El Paso, Redrunner ran great 8600 miles round trip, averaged 8.6 mpg for entire trip, only two trailer
tires had problems. Thinking of upgrading to G614s or going with XPS rib.

Almost time to pull the trigger

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 07:58:39 -0500

Well with any luck we will be rolling home with �baby Lisa� Friday afternoon from CCT, I have be dealing with Mathew and he seams like top notch guy, we have an 11:00 am appointment Friday at the dyno shop so if all goes well its game on. Who said Christmas only comes once a year?

http://www.truckpaper.com/listingsdetail/d...80982&dlr=1

A question, an answer, a debate?

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 07:56:06 -0500

My old tow car always smelled like burning rubber when driving after towing. Never did find a reason, and I looked everywhere. No electrical problems, no exhaust hangers that are burning, nothing. Now my new tow car is doing the some thing. So my question: what cases the burning rubber smell after towing?

It just finally came to me that I may have a solution. Here is my answer, and I'll open it up for debate in case anyone has a better idea:

All cars wear off tire rubber when driving down the rod. Look at the corners of any racetrack to see extreme examples. My theory is that this rubber, which is thrown up by the tires, sticks to metal parts under the car. Now when you start the car some of these parts (exhaust, mostly) begin to burn it off, that is the rubber you smell. Voila, burning rubber smell, yet no car damage.

Any better ideas?

= John

A little guy preparing for Sturgis

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 07:43:48 -0500

Off topic, but should make you smile, did me.....

Here

how do I price my MDT?

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:07:08 -0500

I am selling my 99 Int'l 4700LP. have a DT530 engine w/alison auto trans. I have looked all over the internet and am finding a wide range of prices.
Any ideas on where to look to get a reasonable idea of what $$ to expect?

Inexpensive aircard

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 23:29:11 -0500

We are starting a job the end of August that requires us to have an aircard. We need one that won't require a
large deposit (verizon and at&t wants a big one from us), so I'm wondering about Cricket. We will be mostly in
major cities and they said they have a roaming package for $60 per month. Any others I've missed?

Escapees park

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 22:32:02 -0500

We just stayed at the Raccoon valley Escapees park in TN. What a good time ,lots of friendly people and the managers were very nice and the cost was great. This was our first time at an Escapees park, Sat morning was breakfast at the club house follow by social hour, Sunday there was band and singing plus an ice cream social,what a good time .

Crack in shower skylight

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 22:21:42 -0500

While washing the rv today noticed a crack 1/2 in wide and the length on the cover over the shower. I don't remember running into anything but I did make a temporary repair using dicor and some eternal bond tape untill a can get a new one. Has anyone replaced a shower skylight before?

Hitch carriers

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 21:22:19 -0500

The big ticket item I want to buy this year for my rig is a hitch carrier that will enable me to transport my extra propane tank, my bike, and my jerry can while giving me room to eventually add a secure box for other outdoor items. I want something that looks like this:

Is there anything like that carrier that would still allow me to tow my car??? It would have to be higher up than the bumper to clear the tow bar. I've seen a few hitch carriers that claim to allow towing by adding an extension, but the amount of weight you can tow is less than the weight of my car.

2004 Volvo 670 with Freedomline for sale!

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 19:37:32 -0500

See it in the For sale section!

Driving tips

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 18:47:30 -0500

So... I'm still getting the hang of driving my new HDT. I've now got about 800 miles driving it bob-tail and another 1000 driving it with my 14,000# fifthwheel. As indicated here, in many respects it handles better with the FW on the back - ride is smoother, shifts seem better. BUT... I have had a couple instances where I had quite a bit of understeer and scared myself a little. In both cases the road was wet, I was towing and I had the EB on (I have a two position switch - one is Exhaust Braking and the second is Engine Braking... at this point I only use the Exhaust brake). One situation was an exit ramp - wet... but I thought I was approaching the turn at a reasonably low speed. When the truck downshifted I think the wheels may have started to skid a little - whatever was happening I was getting pushed straight and NOT taking the bend. However, I was continuing to slow down and before I got pushed too far I got it to turn and got back on line. The second time was coming down a winding hill - again wet, again with the EB on and again I felt myself getting pushed straight and under steering into the turn.

Both cases I'd guess my speed was 35 mph or less... I'm trying to figure out what to take away from this. I am pretty much ONLY taking turns (eg exit ramps, curves etc) and the posted speed limit and perhaps 5 or 10 mph less if the road is wet. I'm not sure about using the EB at all - perhaps only on straight descents? I continue to resist the urge to over correct when the truck starts to understeer since I'm pretty sure it would not be a good thing to wag it back and forth with anything in tow.

Other than that, I'm getting the hang of it. I realized that I am really much (much) longer than I feel like I am - both hitched up and bob-tail. In general it seems that I am needing about double the room I think I need to maneuver. At this point I now pull forward about twice as much as "feels" right and am having a MUCH easier time backing up now. I also realize I am a lot heavier and seem to sink into sand/mud a lot more... this could be a concern - especially as I've found it does not take much to start spinning a couple tires.

I figure I'm probably in the median of the learning curve for guys who get HDT's having driven nothing bigger than a 1ton dually previously. Advice and observations welcomed.

JW Morgan did an excellent job repairing my RumRunner...

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 17:10:46 -0500

And today, I received a thank you gift from him.

Mighty nice one too. It looks just like the inner fender liner I forgot down there in May.

Thanks John!

DirecTV (New Installation)

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 16:55:51 -0500

Hello All,
I have just installed the basic receiver package of DirecTV (single LNB) in my fifth wheel. The installation was carried out in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and I have the satellite dish sitting on a tripod outside the rig.

My "address" is the typical Livingston address of which I may stay at two days in any given year.

The question I have is:
My weather channel and locals are set up for Oshkosh, Wisconsin. How can I get the weather and local channels when I move to different parts of the country?

I called DirecTV and I was told they can not change the installation address on my system. I infomed the DirecTV customer service that I purchased the package to be installed in my RV, and that I would be moving every two weeks. I'm happy with what I have and I won't make too much out of the issue that the sales person was not very honest with my moving requirements.

Is there some magical Escapees 'work around' for the problem I have created?

I appreciate any fixes someone may have. Email wraygeo@att.net

Peter SKP 89296

Whine follow up!

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:30:27 -0500

Just moved to another CG about 75 miles from where we were. No problem what so ever. Now, see if I'm coming from way out in left field. Could that whine we heard have been a rear brake that didn't completely release?? Of course I never smelled anything like hot brakes. I mean even towing our Saturn it ran great. Maybe I'm just grasping at straws.

Be on Guard

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:50:24 -0500

Just saw this ...don't know if it has been published here before but it sounded like a serious scam !!!! Be on guard !!!!!

Most of us take those summons for jury duty seriously a new and ominous kind of fraud has
surfaced. The caller claims to be a jury coordinator. If you protest that you never received a
summons for jury duty, the scammer asks you for your Social Security number and date of birth
so he or she can verify the information and cancel the arrest warrant.
Give out any of this information and bingo, your identity was just stolen. The fraud has been
reported so far in 11 states, including New York, Oklahoma, Florida, Illinois, Texas and Colorado.
This (swindle) is particularly insidious because they use intimidation over the phone to try to bully
people into giving information by pretending they are with the court system. The FBI and the
Federal Court System have issued nationwide alerts on their web sites, warning consumers about
the fraud.
Snopes site: says this is real fraud.
http://www.snopes.com/crime/fraud/juryduty.asp
FBI

Yokohama Tires

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:39:36 -0500

Starting to think about new rubber all the way around and was looking at the following Yokohama tires. Is anybody running any of these Yokohama tires and if so what do you think of them and how have the held up. I am not sure if I should go with a all position tire on the drive axle or not. We have never gone off road with the rig and I know I will never wear them out before it's time to change them out again. We have never been caught in any snow or ice because it's always parked by then. Good traction in the rain is more of a concern then snow.

Drive: TY517

All Position: RY567

All Position: RY02

All Position RY617

All Position Highway Line RY083A

Dennis

Any apiologists out there?

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:36:30 -0500

We are currently parked in the midwest in a large field with lots of grass and clover. There are a lot of honeybees around (a good thing). The problem is that they have evidently decided that buiding a hive under the coarse fiberglass coating on the rear of the motorhome basement storage bins is a good thing. I have discovered three areas where they have opened holes in the fiberglass and crawled inside. It is great entertainment watching them enter and leave as they dance for a few moments to each other at the entrance. But, alas, the coating on my storage bins is not a good place for them to live. I tried sealing the openings and they just made new ones. I have sprayed insecticide into the opening and around it and that seems to work until another group finds another spot. I hate killing bees. We are getting ready to leave next week and I am not certain it is a good idea to transport bee colony(s) several states away. Any ideas on how to get rid of them and discourage them from coming back?

Lug nut torque

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:58:32 -0500

Hi Everyone,

What is the torque on the front lug nuts ? I have aluminium wheels with 8 lugs. I can not find my owners manual. I know the manual will show up after my question is answered. We all know how that goes. 1998 Volvo VNL 42 with single rear axle.

Thanks for the help,
Al

Simple Desk Alternative

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:39:44 -0500

I started with "bigger" plans of replacing the couch with a DIY-built desk. Looking at the plumbing mess that was hiding under the couch made that project not practical.

I saw an example of removing the cushions from the dinette and framing in a desk/work-surface on top.
So, I went shopping for materials.
. . . the hard part to find was a good "desk top" other than just plywood that would take a lot of work to make presentable.

BUT, in the middle of the search -- when looking for actual table/desk-tops that could be re-purposed -- I saw the plastic top folding banquet tables.
OK, I could build something to support that (with the legs still folded).

While positioning the table (balancing it on one hand up in the air to get a sense of overall fit), I thought I could try putting one of the legs down part-way to take up some of the weight while I made approximate measurements.

The leg fit "just right" against the seat cushion and the other end of the table lightly abuts the back cushion of the other seat.
So my original compound part support base that bridged the seats (where the original table would be when making the seating into a bed) became very simple.

I used another set of the table-to-wall brackets to mate with the existing wall-mounted table holders.

Enough words -- let's try pictures:

Towing Mirrors and TPMS

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:36:48 -0500

Would like option's on CIPA Custom Towing Mirrors for 2007 Yucon w/electric mirrors also option on whether to install Internal or Ex-internal TPMS. We just purchased a 2010 Flagstaff FLT28WFK and will be picking it up sometime next we will be Full Time RVer as we are Retired (ARMY 1987) so any advice you can send our way we would apperciate. Larry & Donna (Jack Russell's) Sally and Jaxs.

CoachNet

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:28:24 -0500

The time has come to renew road service. I WANT to drop Good Sam, but Coachnet is the only viable alternative and I keep hearing horor stories obout CN and HDTs. If you have CN Platinum will they tow it or not? And will they handle the RV too, under the same policy. I know they say they will.....but I also know people in the past that were on the side of the road and CN REFUSED to service them when it was discovered it was an HDT.

So, what say you all? BTW, I would post in the CN section but no useful info seems to come from there....

Cancel Colorado River Adventure Membership

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:21:26 -0500

I've realized we don't use the campground as much as I had thought. They now tell us we cant cancel it. They say it is a lifetime membership. Is it true? Can they make us continue to pay? Anybody have experience with them?

Mounting camera for truck deck

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:12:10 -0500

We got our camera system. Now comes the difficult part, how to mount the camera.

I'm not a fan of drilling holes in my rig, but I'm having difficulty seeing a way around that.

So if any of you have any bright ideas, lay'em on me.

I definitely want to have the camera view be from the truck rearward.

free national adds

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:23:07 -0500

someone told me there is a place on the net like craigslist that goes national, does anyone know what site that is ? Thanks in advance Ray

Verizon Internet Card

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:11:47 -0500

I have a Verizon device that I use to connect to the Internet. I was told that it is for unlimited useage. Now I am readng that some are being charge (and charged greatly) for using over 5GB of data per month. I surf quite a bit and am beginnng to get worried that I might exceed that amount. How can I check my useage? Have some folks been "grandfathered" and don't have to concern themselves with this charge?
Thanks for the help.
Catfish

MH info needed

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 09:58:39 -0500

We are new to all this. Looking to purchase a RV for the fulltime lifestyle. How does one best go about choosing a home state? I've seen things posted about having to pay sales tax and property tax, and how to beat it with a LLC or something? So what's the best way to go about it? Also there's the question of Insurance, we've pretty much decided on a MH virses a 5th wheel. So which company do you guys recommend to get the best insurance for the money? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Picked my "new" T600 yesterday (it's RED !)

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 09:26:17 -0500

Took delivery of my 05' Kenworth T600 72" studio sleeper 475 hp CAT autoshift and it's bright red from Zimmerman Truck Lines in Mifflintown PA. First class people to deal with. It's going to get singled at a local heavy truck shop today.

I will have my 96 FL-70 Freightliner with 60 in" walk in sleeper licensed and PA titled motorhome up for sale as soon as the KW is ready for the road.

Shaun

Bad Smell

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 09:08:26 -0500

Been getting an odor, like the black tank would give off, after running the front A/C for a few minutes. I think the coils need to be cleaned, but don't have any idea how to clean the inside coils of the A/C. Any suggestions?

Where is the water coming from?

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:44:56 -0500

My carpet in the bathroom in front of the toliet was damp the last couple of days, this morning it is soaked. I can't find any signs of leaks from the toliet. Nor from the overhead vent, ceiling walls, etc. It did pour rain last night. Of course I'm in an area ( just set up yesterday for a month ) where there is NO ONE to look at it or take it to. I'm in St Ignace, MI just north of the Mackinaw Bridge. Darn just one thing after another. By the way the toliet is elevated from the floor and one side of that floor is wet but not soaked.

Cookie

Social Security Numbers on the Internet

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 07:27:44 -0500

I was looking up a dentist and one of the websites returned was FAQ.org there were a lot of social security numbers associated with the names. With the prevalence in identity theft I was greatly surprised ssn's were so prevalent on the web.

I didn't need to log on or have a password. Thought it may be of interest here for people to Google their names and see what comes up. You may not have put your ssn out there but maybe a family member looking for you did some how?

AARP RV Insurance

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 06:18:24 -0500

How is AARP/ The Hartford for RV insurance? I've got a good quote from them. Anybody here have a personal experience with claims or customer service with them?

Handling Psycho Ceiling Fans & RV Ventilation

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 22:52:04 -0500

First off, I'm assuming that the more amps you have in your read out, when running the generator for electricity, that the more gas it's going to take to run the gen. For example, if you're running the A/C and whatever else and have 21 amps, that you're using about 3x as much gas as if you were only running fans, etc. at 7 amps, true?

As you get into not so hot weather, and not A/C necessarily needed, it seems the best thing going is the automated ktichen ceiling fan, except mine is psycho and seems to have a mind of it's own. Some times it runs just as expected and other times it's constantly turning the fan and the lid off and on, continuously and ad nausem, till i just get sick of hearing it and all it's open-shut, open-shut, etc., gyrations. currently the only thing i know of what to do is just keep turning it on and off myself until it starts working the way it should have the first time. i know when an RV tech was looking it over some weeks ago, he found the spring in the fuse was not extending it long enough to get good contact and you could just push in with your screwdriver and it would start working again. but that was supposedly fixed and at least doesn't behave in the same way it did at that time. and the manual mode just doesn't really work at all any more. what's up with that. maybe i just have to replace the whole damn unit?? i have to come across anything regarding this device so far in the manual either.

The other thing i notice with rv's so far is that i step outside and the temperature feels just fine, no A/C needed, but go back into "the box" and t's kind of like stepping in a suana in comparison. i guess this isn't that different from house, I know out in the hills of the LA basin, where many houses don't have A/C, i would always just stick box fans in the windows at night and blast that cool air in the house. worked quite well and rather quickly. So I guess I'll just have to pick up a couple more of those little portable O2 Cool fans I got at Camping World last week. Quite the rip at $30 per, since the big round house fan that I stick in the screen door, is 4x bigger and far more powerful for $10 less!

Wind Power owners

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 20:01:00 -0500

Yes, it's noisy. Yes, I read about it. 50-63 dBA, depends of the wind speed.

I'm planning to install a Wind turbine to support Solar system.
So any suggestions, ye or ne:

products, trust, efficiencies, tower (home made ?), cut-in speed, voltage compatibilities with 6 volts btys, blades, braking system, governing system.

Any of these might help us.

Thanks to all.

Just for you:) I play chess. This is my favorite hobby.

Smart car

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:15:03 -0500

A&E "2 Step" awning...anyone...?

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:06:49 -0500

Anybody have one of these? One came with our '98 Lazy Daze and I can't figure out how to operate the darn thing. And the manufacturer doesn't have a manual on their website. Does anyone have a manual they can share with me, either hard copy or .pdf?

Or...I've read that people have had lots of problems with these particular awnings (unfurling on the road, not handling wind and rain well when in camp, etc). I'm tempted to get rid of it as it's an add-on to my rig and I could do without the weight. So I'm open to persuasion/suggestions.

Thanks!

air card usage

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:30:39 -0500

Hi all, we currently have and use two laptops through a cradlepoint router (500) with a Verizon 727 air card. We have had this setup for about three years without problems. We both use them for surfing the web, my wife does a blog, and of course e-mail. AS a rule we try not to dowload large files and so on. We have never went over our 5 gb all up until the last three months or so. I've been bounsing my head off the wall trying to figure out what has changed. The only thing I can think of is that I started playing a poker (for fun) game through Pokerstar.net, in which I had to download and have sign onto each time to play . Could that be the coulpret? What uses lots of space? Any help would be welcome. My last overage bill was not good and I don't want to repeat it!!
Thanks much,
BobQ

Chinese Bus Builder Confirms U.S. Plans

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:21:24 -0500

Yutong Bus Co. Ltd., the largest manufacturer of commercial buses in China, expects to be selling Class A diesel pusher motorhomes in the U.S. by next spring, according to RV industry veteran Bill Horvath who is heading up the venture.

The yet-to-be named motorhome will be built in China and initially will be shipped to the West Coast for distribution, Horvath told RVBUSINESS.com today (July 27) from China.

Horvath said Yutong expects to build 150 to 200 motorhomes the first year — mostly using componentry manufactured in the U.S. — and ”hopefully double or triple that in the second year.”

”The Class A market is still a little unstable,” said Horvath, whose domestic industry experience dates back to Mallard Coach and Damon Corp. ”This fall will tell us what that segment of the market will be doing. This is quite a task when you put it in perspective.”

Yutong has invited RV industry suppliers to a breakfast meeting next Tuesday (Aug. 3) at the Ramada Inn in Elkhart to discuss particulars.

”This is a very fluid situation,” Horvath said. ”We want to talk to suppliers and listen to what they have to say.”

Initially, Yutong intended to convert buses it builds in China into motorhomes, Horvath said. ”But there were a couple of issues about weight, cost and certification of selling in the U.S.,” he said. ”We will buy some of the material in Elkhart, ship it here (to China) and then ship the unit back to the U.S.”

Ironically, he noted, many of the components used to build motorhomes in the U.S. already are manufactured in China to U.S. specifications.

Chinese delegation at 2009 National RV Trade Show in Louisville, Ky.

Yutong executives have been planning an entry into the U.S. market for two years and attended last year’s Louisville Show to gain a better perspective on the market.

The fiberglass-and-aluminum motorhome will be available on 28- to 30-foot floorplans on 22,000-pound GVWR chassis equipped with 250/280-hp Cummins or Navistar diesel engines. Retail pricing is not yet available.

The first Yutong’s motorhome ”will be mostly traditional as we go through a learning curve and minimize risk,” Horvath said. A second version already in the planning stages that will be available in late 2011 or early 2012 will be a little more experimental, he added.

Horvath said the specific chassis for the new motorhomes has not be selected yet. ”We are still working with chassis manufacturers,” he said. ”We believe the future will be for small motorhomes. You don’t need 45 feet of vehicle and six slideouts to enjoy the beauty and nature of the country.”

The manner in which Yutong’s motorhomes will be distributed also still needs to be determined. ”We may partner with someone in the United States,” Horvath said, adding that the coach initially will be available through West Coast dealerships and later throughout the country. ”It will be easier to penetrate the West Coast first,” he said.

Yutong will have a backlog of 20 to 40 units before they become available to dealers, he said. ”We will have to do some speculation to have some units in inventory, probably on the West Coast so that when dealers want it, it will be ready to go.”

While initial production will take place in China, ”that doesn’t mean that won’t change down the road,” said Horvath who will direct the initiative from offices in the Elkhart area. ”We aren’t going to rule out anything without doing all the homework first.”

The Yutong website (www.yutong.com) describes the firm as one of China’s top 500 companies, specializing in buses but also involved in construction machinery, automotive parts and components and real estate.

The company operates a 3.6 million-square-foot factory complex in China with a daily capacity of over 170 buses.

The website describes Yutong as ”the most technically advanced manufactur(er) of large and medium-sized buses around the world (and is) China’s largest professional bus manufacturer with sales volume ranked second worldwide next to that of Mercedes-Benz.”

APU or Genset, and which One?

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:46:41 -0500

The goal is twofold:

1) supply environmentals for the truck - AC only is OK, heat is not required
2) supply enough power for the RV to run at least one AC, but preferably two. If you are going to do it, you might as well go all the way....

The only thing under consideration here is a truck-mounted solution. There will be no generator in the RV. There will be solar in the RV though.

So the question is which way would you go, and which equipment would you use.

- a diesel RV genset like an onan plumbed to the truck tanks and using a min-split for the AC onthe truck?

- a normal APU on the truck with its own AC? Which APU. There are MANY varieties.

CALIF SMOG

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:40:25 -0500

In the words of one DMV person ( just jump across the border and go get smogged ) A new 2010 law CA wants my diesel smogged, I am 347 miles from the nearest smog station which is in Needles. The big problem is I already payed registration, which they gladly accepted.

If I registered my pickup in AZ would I have to change address and drivers liscense to there also ? AZ does not require smog unless over 8??? lbs GVWR
My rig is 4990 GVWR
Any ideas greatly appreciated. I dont really care to run all over the country for BS paperwork
I am currently in Ely, NV

Boondocking in Canada

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:23:59 -0500

Hello friends,

Janie and I will be in Kenora, Ontario area for a few weeks in August where we have a place to park. When we leave Kenora we'll be driving to Thunder Bay and then on East to Ottawa before crossing into New York State at Ogdensburg. We're in a Class C with a toad. Does anyone have information about the traveling conditions and opportunities to boondock for overnights as we travel. I suspect we'll stop for sleep three times at least on that jaunt. It looks like we'll be predominantly on Highway 11 or 17E for much of that trip. Any advice is appreciated.

happy travels..... Martin and Janie Class of 2010

Do GFI's Wear Out?

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:39:51 -0500

We have been having some sporadic power outages this summer due to the widening of the road and moving of utility poles near the entrance to the park. I have two GFI's in my fiver one in the bathroom the other in the kitchen. While wintering in Florida the bathroom tripped and I found the exterior outlet where I plug in a flag light had done its job when rain got into the light fixture for the flag. Got a new light, reset the GFI and were good to go.

The power in the park went out again last night and this morning the Kitchen GFI will not test or reset so the Microwave and the outlets there have no power. The frig has switched to gas. The bedroom A/C is not cycling on nor is the electrical outlet on the bedroom dresser which is at the opposite end and side of the rig working. The bathroom sink GFI outlet is working. All other outlets and the living room A/C is working fine.

The utility pole project won't be complete till after we head south for the winter so I imagine we will continue to experience outages this summer. The park power is excellent and consistent when on, even on days when the park is filled to capacity according to my voltage meter.

Our rig is 7 years old and been used FT, never stored. My question is do GFI's wear out?

Thank you for your thoughts.

Eclectic Travels/Running K&R Blog

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:23:14 -0500

http://runningk-r.blogspot.com/

We are traveling from Central Texas through New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho and spending the fall in Oregon and Washington. We will return to Texas before Christmas.

battery replacement

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:12:54 -0500

The Interstate batteries on my Dodge/Cummins truck are almost three years old. If it was your truck, would you replace them now, or get another year out of them?

C.

What style of camping do you favor?

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:05:51 -0500

Since we seem to have beaten to death things like smoking, campfires, pets, kids, and about anything else that folks can think of that we do not like, how about discussing what we do like and why? This poll is about your travel style and isn't intended to cover the really long term stay, where we park the RV for a month or more, but rather the overnight stop or the short visit while passing through. While I do intend to include the one night stop, I am looking for what we prefer, or choose to do when not under pressure for some reason to vary from our normal lifestyle.

Lets discuss what we do like for a change! And what is it that makes you like the particular choice that you make? If everything is normal and you have all of those choices, which will you stop at and why?

Wintering in quartzsite az

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 21:43:42 -0500

Who's done it? Will you go back?

Pro's and Con's?

New Castle Wyoming to Custer SD

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 20:02:35 -0500

Upon reading the post about Bear Tooth Pass. I took that highway about 5 years ago from Yellowstone to Cody. There is a small rest area near the bottom after dropping out of Yellowstone. I was pulling a toad with no brakes. My brakes faded at that rest area and I had none. I pulled into the rest area and the next morning they had cooled and I was thanks to God still alive. However The worst Pass I have ever encountered was on Highway 16 between New Castle Wyoming and Custer South Dakota. That is the first time I have ever seen a river run up hill. I came from New Castle east toward Cody and when I dropped down off the black hills from the wyoming side and got almost to the bottom the river was actually running up hill. I had never seen that before but when I started up the other side I saw why the water in the river came down so far and so fast it pushed the whole river uphill on the west side. I thank God I was going east. That is one road(hwy 16) I will never travel from east to west.

members meeting in columbia Falls

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 19:03:42 -0500

to all escapees members in Columbia Falls Mt area this coming weekend. Some of us are getting together on my property for a bbq friday afternoon 7/30 (5 couples so far) all members and their guest are invited for day, or weekend. we have room for all trucks and 5vers ,we have private river access so bring your suits send me a pm if interested and need directions . come and meet your new friends vader

invitation

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 18:15:02 -0500

to all members and their guest in the Columbia Falls,Mt area this weekend .Some members are having a bbq friday afternoon . all are invited to come a stay a day , two or three on our property . we have plenty or room for all trucks and trailers . we also have private river access so bring your bathing suits. We think a meeting putting faces to forum names would be fun and who knows maybe meeting your new best friends. If interested send me a pm for directions. Vader

NEED WILL - WHO TO USE

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:17:24 -0500

We are "Texas residents" and need to have wills prepared and probably a living will. We are in Montana in the summer and Arizona in the winter and spend very little time in Texas. As a result, we need to get this done either on the phone or via the internet. I didn't see any commercial members. Who would you recommend?

Adding hitch to 36' Carriage LS?

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:08:12 -0500

We have a 36' Carriage LS and it does not have a hitch receiver (none of Carriage line does, I don't think). Anyway, it is a 2002 unit and we wonder if any of you have added a hitch and encountered any problems. We have an RV Rover that we would like to take with us since hubby cannot walk much distance, and has become afraid to ride the bike. It is a 3 wheel electric cart that can carry four and rather than use a trailer, it is carried via the receiver hitch. It weighs 350 lbs. and winches up from the ground to be transported. (The RV Rover is made in West Point, GA, not far from us.) I realize there will be some bounce on the back, but when you have it on the SUV, you don't even feel it. We could put it on the front of the FL60, but I think that would be more of a problem than being on the back of the 5th wheel.

I need ideas, opinions and comments from experience with a receiver hitch on the back of the 5th. I posted the request on the Carriage Forum, and 50 people viewed, but I got not one comment. I know you folks have lots of opinions, so have at it, please.

How difficult is it to learn to use dish?

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:48:09 -0500

I just had Dish installed here in Pa. and wonder if I'll ever learn to set the dish up and everything about programing. DVR, HD, VCR, CDplayers is all greek to me. Untill my husband passed, I never learned how to use the remote. My wonderfull son taught me..LOL Well, he isn't here, so I need to learn and wonder how long is the learning curve.

Any one use Reliance brand transfer switches before?

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:31:19 -0500

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/pro...21929_200321929

We've lost power 4 times in the past week due to storms here. I've got to get a transfer switch set up into the house for our generator to tie in. If this works well, I am considering using one of these in my Wabash trailer as well. Any thoughts? Better ideas?

This 1 allows 200 amp main power with a 50 amp generator input for less than $500.00
http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/pro...21929_200321929

This is another from reliance that a friend pointed out to me, but I haven't found a retailer point for it yet.

http://www.reliancecontrols.com/ProductDetail.aspx?TTV2005C

I'm looking for quality, not a cheap solution, so if you have negative points to share on this, please post them.

I have a 6 circuit transfer switch that ties into the existing panel to allow dedicated circuits in the house to run without touching the main breaker to the meter. Not my preferred method since I have to commit specific circuits if I go that route. (It's only 20 amp backup too, so our A/C is not going run off it night)

Lost Texas Driver's License

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:29:52 -0500

Sue misplaced her driver's license. We've searched & searched for over a month now----it's gone.
The DMV in Livingston, TX said the only way to get a replacement is to physically appear at any DMV in TEXAS.
The kicker is, we are in Alaska & will be here for the next 13 months. After that, our travel plans were to cross Canada and drop into the lower 48 somewhere in New England. That's pretty far (and lots of months) from Texas.
Anyone else every been in this predicament?
Thanks,
Mark

sportcoach

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 13:06:32 -0500

ok, does anyone on here own a sportcoach? what year, model, engine? oppions on this coach. thanks

Outlaw

Pullrite Capture Plates neccessary?

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:38:07 -0500

I want the TS3 Trailsaver hitch with slide option; however, they no longer offer a remote capability to activate the slide. I like the Pullrite Superglide for the "auto" design. Can I get the best of both worlds? I'm thinking the Pullrite Superglide with a Trailair king pin. Is the capture plate option neccessary for the Pullrite? Anyone else have a similar set-up? NOTE: I have a 2010 Dodge Ram HD Dually Mega-Cab with a 6' 4" box, pulling a 2011 Jayco 365 BHS (under 16K) - the Jayco rolls off the assembly line next month...

Beartooth Pass Hwy 212

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:17:10 -0500

Are there restrictions on Beartooth Pass about RV rigs? Has anyone drove it with an RV? Recommended or not? We sure get it recommended to us a lot! It looks very interesting on the maps! Thanks for any info. Andy'n'Linda

2005 CDI smart project Car

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:44:54 -0500

If anyone is looking for a cheap Canadian smart here might be one worth looking at. Needs a head but might be worth the money for someone good with tools like Dave K.

http://clubsmartcar.com/index.php?showtopic=21539

Dennis

new kid on the block

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 22:33:49 -0500

well, we did it. we have officially lost our minds. we sold our brand new (one year old) fifth wheel and bought a bus. it is a 1977 MCI 8. we have started a blog of sorts on the conversion. clicky

Nostalgia.. 1947 Kenworth, singled!

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 20:57:09 -0500

Saw this truck at the Heritage Days parade in Columbia Falls, MT yesterday. Thought some of you old timers would enjoy this...

Towing vs renting

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 20:35:51 -0500

We are new to this rv stuff, but the 4 weekend trips in it have been a blast. Except for the heater not working when it was 45 degrees outside(kicked on blew cold air wouldn't shut off till i pulled the fuse). Fortunately the first couple times were at a place that had fulltimers willing to help out a bit(must remember that power cord has to be plugged in to the generator for it to work).
Anyway...we are taking our first long trip from Washington state to San Francisco.
We are debating on renting the tow set up and taking our PT Cruiser or renting a car when we get there.
Does towing make a big enough difference in fuel consumption(its an 88 itasca suncruiser gas) that renting when we get there would be more feasible? The one stop for the weekend midway we will have a vehicle available to us.
any tips on saving m sanity with 2 teens along for the ride?

Preflight checklist I have set up includes making sure stairs are in(stairs really don't do well when they hit a curb), closing the vents, closing all the doors and storage compartments, making sure jacks are up. Any other suggestions I of things to add?

Generator won't gen

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 18:08:17 -0500

Hi Folks, recently bought a 06' Monaco monarch SE gas motorhome. I'm not having any luck getting the generator to power the electricity to a/c or interior lighting. It starts and runs, but no juice. I'm hoping I have forgotton to reset a switch or something. Any ideas on what to check out? Thank you, camperjer

Belize

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 17:53:01 -0500

Has anyone rved through Mexico into Belize?

Removing Sunguard Windscreen Cover in Rain - Input Needed

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 16:28:52 -0500

Hi folks,

My wife and I are at a racetrack in New Jersey and the facility just got hit with a freak rain storm. We were planning to leave at the end of day, and I had put our Sunguard window covers on to keep the sun out. I was going to take them off right before we left, but they're obviously wet right now and I want to make sure I won't damage them by removing them when they are wet (if that is an issue). We need to roll out of here ASAP, so I'd love to get some input from you experts on what steps I should take. Will this hurt them? Should I take them off, dry them as best we can, then lay them on the bed to try? Our trip tonight will be about three hours.

Any quick replies would be much appreciated!

How much to offer on used motorhome?

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 16:26:52 -0500

Still shopping! Was wondering how much to offer a Private Seller below asking price for a used Motorhome? How about a dealer?

Removing Sunguard Windscreen Cover in Rain - Input Needed

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 16:05:59 -0500

Surge Protectors

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 15:38:56 -0500

I am looking at buying a surge protector from Camping World It's a 30 amp that is on sale for 243.??
If anyone wants to see it http://www.campingworld.com/browse/product...033&rewrote
Click on above The reason I added this site is for people in the know to see it and if this is worth the money
Do I need one this expensive
do I need one at all
What kind are others using
I have heard about spikes and low amps and miss wired
What does everyone else do I pretty new at this camping and learning on the move kind of
Thanks ahead for any info you can share
Roger

Estes RV Resort

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 15:29:14 -0500

Does anyone have any current information on the Estes RV Resort near Rockport, TX? I've checked the Forums here and RV Park Reviews and find nothing. We would like to have some opinions on this RV park. From their website I'm guessing it is a fairly new park.

Dave - WB8QOD

New/Almost New F450 D. Engine losses?

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 15:07:58 -0500

One of our neighbors, full timers, left this park and blew an engine within 30 minutes. It is a year old, low mileage, just got an oil change. Dry RV weight is 21,000#. No further comment about that.

Another RVer offered that his NEW 450 blew up, and the dealer made it right very quickly.

Is this becoming common?

Thanks for advise and comments,
dan

Fuel savor additive ?

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 14:31:18 -0500

OK, just read about a fuel savor additive called Ethos, does anyone have experience with this product ?

Electric charge back box ?

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 14:28:49 -0500

I just read about a box you can buy, that saves your unused power that is derived from motors etc. that you run in your home or rv, that the electric co. does not creadit back to you. Has anyone used one of these to save on thier electric bill ?

Bird droppings

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 14:11:52 -0500

I don't recall seeing this topic discussed. We winter in AZ and are parked under a large tree. Last winter we had a TERRIBLE problem with bird droppings. Does anyone have a solution? Someone tried putting one of the plastic owls on their roof but that did not work. We had to clean constantly. Most of the offending birds were large and black or dark brown. Help would be greatly appreciated.

Need Little Help from You Electricians-Wiring Inverter

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 12:54:10 -0500

I know that in an RV the neutral is not bonded to ground. When I'm wiring my inverter Xantrex Freedom 1800 to 120V AC shore power I am going to put a 30 amp circuit breaker in line on the input side. Question #1 -Are the electrical pedestals at a campground like normal stick house electrical circuits where neutral is bonded to ground at the main fuse box? or do I need to bond neutral to ground in my 30 amp breaker box? I would think they would be like a normal circuit and I would isolate the neutral from ground in my breaker box. Question #2--Can the inverter ground be connected to the cab or does it need to be carried down and connected to the frame? Sorry for asking such elementary questions but need to do this right.

Free standing screen rooms vs. Add a Room versions

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 12:19:57 -0500

We have a class A 40' motorhome and wish to add some additional outside living area. As we walk around campgrounds, we see both types of additions - free standing screen tent rooms [some square, round, many sided] and others who have the "Add A Room" version. Now we are asking fellow Escapees which option seems the best for their needs. Our goal is to enjoy the outdoor living safe from the wide variety of bugs, but also keep in mind the time taken to erect or teardown the space. I welcome all suggestions.

Turbo going south?

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 10:37:23 -0500

Just developed a loud whine,especially when accelerating from a stop. Seem to have lost power also. The loudness of the whine seems to get lower as it gets up through the gears. I should've started off by stating it's a Cummins ISC 8.3 in a '00 Dutch Star. Any thoughts..or do you agree with my amateurish diagnosis?

Registering HDT in SD

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 10:20:27 -0500

We've been full timing fo a couple of years and finally going the HDT route. Our Volvo 630 is at CCT getting ready as we speak.
Licenses, residency, etc. all in place in SD.
We now have a decisoin to make about how to register. According to the insurance agent we are working with, there is no need to register as a MH in South Dakota but just register as a private truck. Registering as a truck is about $100 and as a MH over $300. I'll try to get a confirmation from DMV but was wondering if any of you "SD residents" have any experience with this?
Looking at the current SD Laws section 32-12A-XX looks like the agent may be correct.

On another note: Escapees and the forums, especially HDT, have been a GREAT help in our making the HDT decision. Thanks to all!!

air shocks

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 09:32:41 -0500

my 2000 f350 truck sinks down about 2-3 " when i hook my 5th wheel and i have been thinking of putting on some air bag shocks (firestone?) any suggestions

Wayland's Lift Off

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 09:22:18 -0500

Ok Wayland. We're waiting.

Lifan Generators

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 08:51:19 -0500

Hi:

Does anyone have any info or opinions on these generators?

http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores...op_Now_SV_Lifan

Thanks for any input, Vern

Email

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 22:42:29 -0500

I use Google Gmail for my email service. Recently I stopped receiving emails from one of my friends who uses AOL. He didn't change any settings and I didn't change any. He receives my messages OK and his messages to me do not bounce back to him. All my other correspondents appear OK. I looked in trash, spam and junk. His msgs were not there. Looked at Gmail help but could not understand most of what was there. To the best of my knowledge, I do not have him blocked. Any help would be appreciated.

Jim

You folks living in Retama Village be careful

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 22:21:29 -0500

Retama Village looks to be next door to Reynosa, which is where one of the more violent Mexican Drug Cartels work out of. Also one of many articles about Reynosa below and how the cartels are very active there. Below is a map of cities where the cartels are very active.

Be on your guard and pack heat at all times. Hopefully the war won't come to your doorstep.

Cartel Activity in Reynosa

Monaco product ?

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:56:39 -0500

I'm not looking to start a war over whats a better coach.....or any hard feelings.

I just need some experienced advise..... to help us make a decission.

..........I would like to know from owners of Monaco's......what there experiance has been with their coach..........good and bad.

My reason is .....we are looking at a 08 35' Monaco Cayman XL with a 340hp Cummins / allison 2500....with 10K miles. We really like the coach........but are cautious not to make a costly mistake entering into retirement..........

ANY advise would help greatly.......

Thanks........

Barker tote tank replacement

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:48:08 -0500

Howdy!

Went to use our Barker 32 gallon tote tank this afternoon and found it missing, guess someone needed a tote tank. Mean while we are in the northwest area an will be needing the use of one and would like to replace it with another Barker tote tank. I have checked on line and could not locate a dealer in this area we are near Bend, Oregon at this time. Does anyone know of a RV location that sales Barker tote tanks here? We'll be moving over to the coast area next week so don't have time to order one online and have it shipped.

"Happy Trails"
chiefneon

New Rear Seat/Bed

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:40:31 -0500

Removed the bed and replaced it with a Walmart Special order. Can now carry passengers comfortably. The back of seat clicks down to make a bed larger then the original mattress.

DVR Alternatives ?

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:32:26 -0500

We are currently at a park that offers cable included with the rate. And other times we just use our antenna for local programming. We are also Dish customers, with a DVR. I would sure like to figure out a way to save a few bucks and let Dish go. But we really enjoy recording programs with the DVR and watching them later on our time. Are they alternatives to a DVR ?
My wife mentioned the good old days when we would record with a VCR (no longer have one). I thought about trying to pick one up at a pawn shop, but can you even purchase VCR tapes any more??? What about Tivo ?? I am not sure how that works, I imagine there is a monthly fee ?? Or now the latest thing I have heard of is Netflix through your Wii (we have a Wii). Not sure how that works either ?
Anyone else have economical ideas ??

Electrical problem

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 18:21:37 -0500

After several days of continuing work on the Volvo I reconnected the positive lead to the battery's and found the following situation. The interior lites come on. The engine spins over briskly-doesn't fire. The dash doesn't light up and the usual bonk..bonk...................bonk..bonk doesn't happen. So here's what I have done, cleaned ALL battery terminals at the battery's, checked all fuses( replaced a couple that were blown , didn't change anything). Reconnected the battery's several times and off-on on the ignition switch 3,4 cycles. As stated although the dash is dark the light in the switch on the dash that,I think, has something to do with low fuel? is on and fading in and out. Is there a reset for the ECU? I'm really stumped and really stressed over this so here I am HELP! J&V

Cape Hatterus and Barrier Islands

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 17:55:52 -0500

I am thinking of traveling from the north end of the barrier islands to the other and have never been there. I am from Oregon. My questions are how many ferries will I have to cross on and their cost and will they take a 34' motorcoach and an 18' car hauler. I was told there are lots of rv space and I would not need a reservation. I have a friend that will be in a town called Waves. It will be a couple of days before I leave. I am currently in Roanoke Va. Getting my Generator worked on. If I have any money left after the cummins care center I plan to head that way. Also I intend to take hwy 460 It looks like pretty good highway but I am a little concerned about crossing the Blue Ridge Highway I have heard entrances get pretty rough depending where you enter. I just want to cross on 460.

First Volunteer Positions

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 16:06:01 -0500

My wife and I have accepted our first two volunteer positions. We will be at LBJ State Park (Central Texas) this fall, and at Santa Ana NWR (South Texas) the first of next year.

Since our sticks-and-bricks home is in central Texas, if it would be simple for us to shuttle the large tow vehicle (F-350) home one day and return in our Ford Escape, which is smaller and more economical. We could use the Escape for the duration of our stay, and then retrieve the F-350 only when it's time to move on.

The downside would be that we wouldn't have the tow vehicle in a circumstance where we needed to evacuate the area quickly. I could retrieve the truck in a few hours while at LBJ, but would need a day's notice at Santa Ana. We'll be missing tornado season while at LBJ, and hurricane season while at Santa Ana, but I suppose there is the possibility of flooding at either location.

Has anyone ever swapped their tow vehicle for something smaller while volunteering? Alternately we could bring the car along when we first arrive, but I imagine that there is a limit on how many vehicles they want volunteers to have at a facility.

Thoughts?

Thanks,

Mark

Front Wheel Seal

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:40:37 -0500

I had the truck checked before the trip and the right front wheel seal was "seaping". 1000 miles into the trip I noticed oil spotting on the inner rim and the brake shoes were soaked. 1000 more miles and there was a streak of oil down the side of the tire at night. I made it home, watched the oil level, and it never got down to the add mark.

Question---I've never dealt with a semi front oil type hub (don't even ask me how many grease type wheel bearings I've changed/packed on the farm!) Is there any special tricks I need to know? Also, can I clean up the shoes with brake cleaner and reuse them, or do I have to replace them (they were like new)? Or do I take this to a local garage and let them deal?

Thanks.

Never lube vs. easy lube bearings

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:21:32 -0500

We have a new trailer that came with Easy Lube bearings. There is a lot of chatter on another forum about blowing out the seals when greasing the bearings, hence grease gets on the brakes etc. etc. DH wants to change to the Never Lubes, DW thinks it is user error on blowing out the grease seals.

We are thinking about switching to Never Lubes which we had on another trailer and were very happy with.

I would like your thoughts on this proposal. We are in limbo-land about what to do.

Thanks for any and all input.

Video/Radio Combinations?

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 12:31:49 -0500

Was out browsing today at Wal-Mart and they have a Jensen VM8113 and VM9214 car radio/CD/MP3/Video etc with a rear view camera. Price around $274 for the 9214 which has a 7" monitor, the 8113 has a 3.5" monitor. Anyone have any experience or thoughts on these units for a hitching camera only. I need to replace the Volvo Cassette player in my truck and thought I might kill two birds with one stone. Would have to be creative with the 9214 for the mount.

What did you do with "Keepsakes"

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 11:07:51 -0500

As I contemplate how to cut down and what to keep in this house full of stuff, I realize there may be a transition period or some things that I cannot find it in me to give away, sell or toss. What did you do, and how long did it take you?

5th wheel landing gear

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 09:07:14 -0500

Am not sure why but when I tried to set up the day before yesterday at a campground the drivers side jack didn't engage. The passenger side lifted the rv enough that I was able to extend the adjustable leg and unhook. The site was a bit unlevel and the drivers side didn't need to lift much. Got hooked up again yesterday morning and headed to the next site. Will be here a month or more and want to get a repair done. Used my Hydraulic bottle jack to unhook and level this time. Didn't like the extra stress on just one side. Kept the rig lifting even. Have not seen the inside of those jacks. (has anyone) and they seem like they will be a royal pain to work on. Before I start I would like as much information as I can gather. Links to photos or anything appreciated. Thanks.

Rod

Who uses an LLC

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 07:36:31 -0500

Just in case you ever wondered, some boat owners use out of state LLC's to avoid taxes on their rigs too!

This boat owner uses an LLC.

Pictures of BART's bed build

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 00:28:03 -0500

Larry Herrin sent me a few pictures of the bed when they set it on BART.

Larry made this bed a bit different. He left the rear-most fairing piece where the steps are. I think it will make straping on the Smart a bit easier. I didn't lose any compartment space since my fuel tanks are behind that section of fairing. The ramps are 12 foot folding ramps that are visible in the rear left compartment (first picture).

I can't wait to see it with doors on the compartments and paint.

HDT Sighting

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 22:42:03 -0500

Saw this nice Pete in Maple Creek Saskatchewan yesterday.

Mike

what camera to buy

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 21:20:44 -0500

I'm in need of a new camera to take pictures of things to sell on craigslist etc.. My sun has a Kodak easyshare Z812, but when I get on ebay there are a lot of different ones with different mega pixels and zooms etc. I'd like to buy the best one for the job. Do any of you know about these things ?

Winegard Carryout & Direct TV plus DVR

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 20:42:45 -0500

Bought a complete system have worked most of the day and am at the point that I have all my channels but I still have this warning on the screen that its searching for signal on Sat 2. Direct TV says call the local dealer and have them come out and check it out. Has anybody seen this problem and could lead me in the right direction.

Dave

Are RV drivers rude?

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:40:27 -0500

I am quite new to rv'ing and have been traveling 2500 miles for a month now across US and into Canada. I find RVers in the rv parks are very friendly and eager to wave and talk to others. But I find when I am traveling on the road that other RVers seem rude. I drive consistently 58mph in the right lane and leave adequate distance for stopping and other passers-by to cut in. But on the interstate- and especially in the city- they seem to need to get ahead and cut me off like many of the passenger cars and trucks. I try to assume they are anxious and focused on returning home that day from vacation and are more careless and I may drive the same on my last day of my trip. But I am surprised by this sense of rudeness while driving.

Pictures of "Hoss"

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:29:05 -0500

Here are some photos of "Hoss". Hope to have it to JW next week for frame, hitch and some other work.

Back Bay NWR in Va. Beach Va. has immediate need of volunteer

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:04:38 -0500

Walt contacted us and asked us to post this. It is a great opportunity and we would return in a heartbeat to help him out if we were not already tied up here in PA.

"Site plus a $54/week stipend. No set hours, as its residential. The site is only open during daylight hours. A 40 hour per week presence is expected though, with being there on weekends required. ( If you are a couple only one really needs to be there at any given time)
The duties include:
"Eyes and Ears" on-site presence for FWS
Advising visitors of rules and regulations, and providing information about the refuge and the mission of the FWS
Mow the grass
Pick up litter
Clean restroom
Service information brochure rack
Make minor repairs, as necessary
(All of this took us very little time each day as the canoers and kayakers are usually pretty enviromentaly friendly people) The site will close November 1...looking for someone for the end of August through then. We have a fairly new, little used, 28 ft trailer if you know someone who is interested, but has no RV. Otherwise the site can take up to a 32 footer.
Anyone interested can contact Walt by phone, 757-721-2412, ext 24...or email: Walter_Tegge@fws.gov "

The site is located at the end of Horn Point Rd, Virginia Beach ( blacktop road) at the Canoe & Kayak launch. It is only open during the day, has an automatic gate that opens around 6Am and closes at sunset ( you have the ability to open and close it at other hours for your own use.). Not very much use, you could go a couple days and not see anyone. The concrete site backs up to with in 30 feet of the water and has an amazing view. You are only about 15 minutes from all the shopping you could need and the entire city of Va. Beach. The entire site is only about 3 years old. While keeping the restroom clean is part of the duties it is a very nice concrete building and takes only a few minutes to hose down every couple days. It is about a 20 minute drive to the refuge office, thus the stipend. They will instruct you on how to fill out the paper work so that it will not generate a 1099 and thus is not taxable, and it will be automatically deposited in your checking account. It is a great spot for birders of all levels. We did volunteer to do other chores for them and once or twice ran the visitor center on a Sunday but were not required to do so. A water softner has been added to the site so hard water should not be an issue. They provided drinking water for us. I would ask if the well has been okayed for that. They did provide us with extra sewer hose so that we could reach the dump port at the back of the bathrooms.

While Walt states they can handle up to a 32 feet rig, I think that is just the length of the concrete pad. Ron see's no reason that a bigger rig wouldn't fit...the front wheels would just be off the pad. There is 50amp electric.

We had a wonderful time and met the nicest people when we volunteered here. Anyone would have to try really hard not to enjoy this opportunity.

Phone as a free internet router

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 17:37:57 -0500

I just moved a Sprint Touch Pro 2 (HTC windows smart phone) onto my Boost Mobile CDMA (only 3g program with Boost) account with the $50 unlimited everything account. To my knowlege this is the only true unlimited data plan there is (no 5 Gig cap).

HTC has a free router program that converts their Windows phones with onboard wifi to a stand alone router. Your can park your phone 30 feet away and still surf the internet, and of course use multible computers too. Also, you are not tethered, so you will not get hit with an extra fee. You can run this program on any quaifing Window's smart phone from different carriers, but will be subject to your data cap.

Does it work, my phone is setting in the window on it's charger as I type this post on my notebook.

I should also mention that these 3g speeds run at the same speed as the sprint USB internet card.

Flathead Lake in Montana

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:48:27 -0500

We would like to spend a month, maybe more, on or near Flathead Lake next summer. Kalispell is about as far away as I want to be. I found a few places but they are real expensive. Eagle Nest RV Resort in Polson seems real nice but the rates are $700 to $900 a month, more than I want to spend. Two years ago, we stayed two days at Edgewater RV Park in Lakeside. It was a nice park but they want $550 a month and they don't even have a pool. Not that I would use the pool that much but these rates seem pretty high when compared to monthly rates at the winter snowbird parks down south. For example, in the Rio Grande Valley, the monthly rates at the best RV resorts are in the $600 to $800 range and these are true resorts with just about every amenity you can imagine. For a park like Edgewater RV Park in Lakeside, I think $450 a month would fit my budget since I will also be paying electric charges. Has anyone had an extended stay at an RV park near Flathead Lake? If so, where did you stay?

Electric vehicle for toad?

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 10:41:20 -0500

Has anyone used an electric car for a toad?

watching the temp.

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 10:41:13 -0500

Does anybody know if my 1989 winnebago chieftain has a tranny cooler? It's a 32 ft'er with a ford 460 on a john deer chassie and it has a C-6 transmission. If I do. What do I need to know in terms of maintainance. We are going on a trip in a week and I will have to take my Winnie' up a steep 6 mile grade. We can't leave untill I get off work (12:30). So I am forced to drive the hill around 1:30 in the afternoon the forecast is saying 95*. I'm worried about over heating.

Engine Heat in Beadroom

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 22:55:58 -0500

We have a 38' 94 Holiday Rambler Navigator. When we are on the road, the engine heat warms up the bed. At the end of the day, up till midnight, it is so hot you can only sleep above the covers. There is an opening in the pedestal under the bed, lined with metal, vented to the bedroom with a screen over the opening. It has a label that says it is not for storage. This opening allows copious amounts of heat in the bedroom. The owners manuel doesn't say a word about what it is for. I know others have had this issue. Lisa and I are in our second year with a pusher, and wandering what others have done about this. There is no clearance under the bed for insulation. Looking for help. Thanks.

PLEASE Don't deploy your RV jacks at WAL*MART

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 22:49:33 -0500

I had to run to Wally World tonight for Cat Litter. I always like to check out the RV's parked in the outskirts of the lot. of the 7-8 Rv's one of them had his slides deployed AND leveling jacks run down. Another's front tires of his Winnebago Journey?? were off the ground. Neither moron had plywood under the jacks and the asphalt had to be at least 80-90 degees after absorbing heat all day. Needless to say the mushroom shaped jack bases were at least 1" into the blacktop.

They just resurfaced that lot last summer and our winters and lake bottom sub soils are brutal enough on asphalt so it would be nice to get a couple of years before the holes start blowing thru that lot.

I don't often stay at WAL*MART but it is nice to know that it is an option, why ruin this for everyone?

off my soapbox now
-blizz

Yet another beginners question ?

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 21:49:51 -0500

Can 2 people live full time in a 35' coach ????..........with 1 livingroom slide and 1 bedroom slide.

My wife and I are stuck on this question............. Im thinking 70% of the time you would be outside anyway.......she's thinking more like 40%. Then there are them rainy days when its 100% inside ......for who knows how long. We do love each other ( at this time )

Any input would be appreciated..........

Thanks

Buying a new truck-

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:34:47 -0500

Hi-

Once again I need my experts help and opinion. Here's the deal-

My husband and I are 7 weeks into a 12 week trip. We currently have a 2007 Dodge 2500 Ram. We're pulling a 33 foot fifth wheel. During this trip we decided that we really want a bit more truck eventually. Well we might have found just the truck. It's a 2008 3500 4x4 low mileage truck. This goes against everything I've ever done. I like to research and think and research some more.

So here's my questions-

1. ARE WE CRAZY?!! We're in the middle of a trip. We're thousands of miles away from home. Talk about switching a hourse mid-stream.

2. After I looked on blue book for the value of both trucks it appears that they are giving us a great deal. They are also going to transfer the hitch and trailer brake for free. And you know what they say-if it looks too good to be true..........

3. The truck sits higher than the old truck. The hitch was installed by the rv dealer. The rv might sit higher. Is there any problem with that?

Thanks again!

Mercedes 450 HP

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:19:16 -0500

Still motorhome shopping,looked at one with a Merdedes 450 HP motor. The gal couldn't tell me what kind of fuel usage to expect.Was at a Consignment lot.It was a 2006 model with less than 4000 miles so I doubt the owner would know either.Anyone here run a Mercedes Diesel? If so how reliable are they?

Battery Maintenance--Science or Snake oil?

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:21:34 -0500

Often, if something is too good to be true...

Just your thoughts on this item:
http://tinyurl.com/26hm2s5

It was described by a salesman as, "pulsing a rapid surge to help batteries de-sulfate."

Anyone install such a device? Your results?

Mark

washing machine placement

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:16:00 -0500

The cupboard that is plumbed in our RV is at the back driver's side corner of our DP. I'm concerned about adding weight there since it is so hard to add offsetting weight to the front passenger side. (No comments about the weight of the passenger herself, please.) Has this been an issue for anyone?

Linda Sand

Building RV pad at home

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:42:23 -0500

If this subject has been covered, please give me some direction - I tried to search for it, but failed.

I am having a RV pad made in the back yard.

I have a 220 wire in my attic that use to go to a big AC unit. I would like to use that circuit, as it is already wired into the breaker box inside the house.

In the past I have just run a 12 gauge line out to a 30 amp plug. The distance is over 100 feet, and so I can only run basic appliances in the motor home. I cannot run either AC without tripping the breaker.

It is my understanding (limited, for sure) that these four wires (Black, White, Red, bare copper) can be wired to the 50 amp receptacle.

I spoke to a local electrician and he did not really understand the wiring of the 50 amp RV plug. I told him that I did not want 220 volts going to the RV - so it was not to be wired like a clothes dryer or AC unit.

Are there some simple instructions, with diagrams available?

Thanks.

Hauling the Jeep?

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:20:55 -0500

I'm still in the process of "Bed Building, and "Hitch Location". I would like to haul my Jeep Wrangler on the truck instead of towing it, but that means the frame rails would have to be extended about 53", and the hitch would be about 210" BOC. Of course if I did this, I would leave it a twin screw w/234" wheel base. It now weighs 18,100# with front axel @ 10,200#. It would still be about 12-14' shorter than when I double towed with my MDT (74'), but just how long can I go without shooting myself in the foot??? This forum has already been a great deal of help and if anyone has any input, I would like to hear. Thanks

yellowstone in mid October ?

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:48:41 -0500

We are planning a trip to Yellowstone & staying near the east entrance in Wapiti in mid October. Do we need to
be concerned about snow & ice at that time. Also, I was wondering about taking hwy 16 from Buffalo
to Worland & then up to Cody. Looks like it goes through the Big Horn mountains. Any advice ?
Thanks.
Paul

Resource Guide

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:47:13 -0500

When I access the Resource Guide page 1 is missing sections I, J, K, L and restarts with M. Is this purposeful and did I miss the post explaining these deletions?
I found some old posts in search on replacing OEM radio in Volvo and it referred to "Page 1, section I" so that is what alerted me when there was no section I.

What's up with Xantrex

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:08:17 -0500

I have been trying to contact Xantrex for two days and I get a recording that I should call back in an hour. I even tried the old Heart Interface number and get the same recording. I tried calling the home office and get the same recording.

Does anyone know if they're belly up? Thanks.

Day's End Directory Price Increase - Lock In Current Rate

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:02:51 -0500

Over the past many months in which I have been doing the Day's End Project (which includes the old Boondockers Journal), I have endeavoured, as I had time, to improve the quality of the Directory. Foremost among these efforts has been looking at each listing, from the oldest unreported-on ones first, to see if they can be updated from reference information such as websites, maps, people/places to call, etc. Many have been so updated. Some have thereby been found no longer available, and have been deleted. Others cannot be so updated, and have been assigned a "REPORT NEEDED" warning. I vowed when I took this Project not to just throw out old listings unless a good reason could be determined.

When I started, there were listings that had not been reported on in 21 years. Amazingly, I found current information to update many of those! Still good spots to O/N or longer! I have now looked at every listing I could find which has not been reported on in over 8 years. Many now have that "REPORT NEEDED" tag, but they have been looked at, and no one should misunderstand. I will continue looking at the oldest unreported listings as I have the time to do so.

At this point I feel that the Day's End Directory is a vastly-improved document and resource for SKPs in their travels. Corresponding to that, I feel that a small price increase is warranted. On Sept 1, the following will be asked, regardless of payment method:

Downloads $10
Annual Download Access Renewal via the Day's End Directory Yahoo Group $7
CDs $15

Until Sept 1, any SKP can still purchase download access for $5 (if paid by cash, check or money order) or a CD for $10.

Also until Sept 1, current members of the Day's End Directory Yahoo Group can extend their Download Access time up to 4 years more than what they have remaining now, at the current low price of $5 per year. A few folks have already paid me extra for additional years, and I truly appreciate the confidence they have in me. I love doing Day's End, and hope circumstances beyond my control do not prevent me from continuing to do so for a very, very long time.

I also have a new ordering website for the Directory:
http://www.daysenddirectory.com
Please spread the word among your fellow Escapees members.

Last, but most important: The Reporting Incentive Program remains unchanged. Those who report on Day's End listings or new additions to same, at a level which causes them to not be asked for an annual Download Access Renewal fee, will now have the value of their efforts increased via the higher value of the Directory. Certainly I appreciate those who pay for the Directory, but it is those who report regularly and faithfully in their travels and end up not being asked to pay, who are the backbone of the quality of the Directory you see today.

Thanks again to everyone for your support of the Day's End Directory.

Guy Gipson
guygipson@gmail.com
Owner, Day's End Directory*
SKP #84383

*Ownership rights to the Day's End Department content in Escapees Magazine are vested in Escapees, Inc.

Day's End Directory Price Increase - Lock in Current Rate

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:59:54 -0500

Over the past many months in which I have been doing the Day's End Project, I have endeavoured, as I had time, to improve the quality of the Directory. Foremost among these efforts has been looking at each listing, from the oldest unreported-on ones first, to see if they can be updated from reference information such as websites, maps, people/places to call, etc. Many have been so updated. Some have thereby been found no longer available, and have been deleted. Others cannot be so updated, and have been assigned a "REPORT NEEDED" warning. I vowed when I took this Project not to just throw out old listings unless a good reason could be determined.

When I started, there were listings that had not been reported on in 21 years. Amazingly, I found current information to update many of those! Still good spots to O/N or longer! I have now looked at every listing I could find which has not been reported on in over 8 years. Many now have that "REPORT NEEDED" tag, but they have been looked at, and no one should misunderstand. I will continue looking at the oldest unreported listings as I have the time to do so.

At this point I feel that the Day's End Directory is a vastly-improved document and resource for SKPs in their travels. Corresponding to that, I feel that a small price increase is warranted. On Sept 1, the following will be asked, regardless of payment method:

Downloads $10
Annual Download Access Renewal via the Day's End Directory Yahoo Group $7
CDs $15

Until Sept 1, any SKP can still purchase download access for $5 (if paid by cash, check or money order) or a CD for $10.

Also until Sept 1, current members of the Day's End Directory Yahoo Group can extend their Download Access time up to 4 years more than what they have remaining now, at the current low price of $5 per year. A few folks have already paid me extra for additional years, and I truly appreciate the confidence they have in me. I love doing Day's End, and hope circumstances beyond my control do not prevent me from continuing to do so for a very, very long time.

I also have a new ordering website for the Directory:
http://www.daysenddirectory.com
Please spread the word among your fellow Escapees members.

Last, but most important: The Reporting Incentive Program remains unchanged. Those who report on Day's End listings or new additions to same, at a level which causes them to not be asked for an annual Download Access Renewal fee, will now have the value of their efforts increased via the higher value of the Directory. Certainly I appreciate those who pay for the Directory, but it is those who report regularly and faithfully in their travels and end up not being asked to pay, who are the backbone of the quality of the Directory you see today.

Thanks again to everyone for your support of the Day's End Directory.

Guy Gipson
guygipson@gmail.com
Owner, Day's End Directory*
SKP #84383

*Ownership rights to the Day's End Department content in Escapees Magazine are vested in Escapees, Inc.

Cradlepoint Router

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:50:56 -0500

I have a Cradlepoint MBR1000 router which I've had since late October 2008. Inserted into one USB port is my Verizon USB727 modem and in the WAN hookup on the back of the router is a SlingLink Turbo ethernet cable that Dish Network installed (takes the place of a land line).

On a number of occasions, the MDM light goes amber, but will turn green again in a few seconds. However, yesterday I noticed that frequently both the WLAN and MDM lights go out entirely for a few seconds and then come back on (the PWR light never goes out).

This morning, I put the USB727 into my computer to update it, but that didn't cure the problem when I reinserted it in the router. It'll go along for quite a while without a problem and then start the thing with the WLAN and MDM lights going out again.

Does this indicate that the router is going bad, or is there some other problem with the setup?

Tips I stole from a friend's blog

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:22:33 -0500

A vegetable peeler is a great cheese slicer.

A zester is a great cheese shredder.

A portable fan is an excellent way to make your genny exhaust fumes go in the direction you want them to go: AWAY from your rig.

Bissell rug cleaner, in the can with a scrub brush on top, is a wonderful tool for removing all sorts of carpet stains.

Volvo 610 Curtains

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 10:37:52 -0500

Anyone have a source where to purchase the small roller clips plus the front and side window curtain setup?
Thanks

Any Ideas for raising my air hitch?

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 10:25:10 -0500

I'm getting ready to tow my trailer for the first time and realized that my air hitch slips under my already low receiver, I'm having a mental block as to how to designing a new adapter to raise the air hitch. thoughts??

Finding a volunteer spot

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 06:46:13 -0500

When you are looking for either a vol spot or paid position do you contact one employer/park at a time and wait for a response or do you contact many at once and try to choose from the offers that come in? It seems to me that either way runs the risk of loosing the chance to work at on of your preferred spots. I have gone the route of contacting a few at once but only a couple have gotten back to me saying they have no openings. How long do I wait for the others to get back to me before I contact additional potential parks? Then when you do get multiple offers do you burn your bridge at the places that did end up making you an offer? In other words do they get put out with you to the point they wouldn't hire you the next time for refusing this time? Just looking for some advise on reasonable procedures to mine for jobs especially volunteer. I know I can get a spot at some of the more northerly spots but I'm waiting it out hoping to get something south and warm or at least where temps won't drop below freezing too much.

Garry

LCI bearings loose

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 23:12:17 -0500

I was on a service call to a 5th wheel today to inspect loose wheel bearings. They are lippert 7000 lbs. axles. When the wheel was jacked up there was considerable play in the bearing. They are neverlube type bearings. The bearing race is held in with a snap ring.
I tried to tighten the nut and it was loose by about 3/4 turn. Then I took the nut off and found the washer was not the proper size on the inside and it was bent outward on the outside. Like the whole bearing was moving in and out on the spindle. There is an invoice from previous work on the axle that states the spindle was resurfaced. That is a question in itself as if that work was done correctly. The customer stated that both rear wheel bearing are loose. He had new tires install in the morning and that is when he noticed the wheels were loose. There was not enough time to take a front wheel apart to compare if it is different than the rear.
Is the washer suppose to bottom on the spindle shoulder or does it just float where needed. The washer is not what I would expect to be there in thickness or hardness.
I will be talking to Lippert in the am. Just curious if anyone else has seen this.

Thanks, Vern

Truck lift kit for low speed travel

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:38:43 -0500

Powerhouse conversions has this as a option for both the front and the rear, how does this work and where can I get one too!

If you scroll way down you can see their info about it here: Powerhouse Coach Prices

off road package front
( aprox 4 inches of additional ground clearance )
$1,775

off road package rear
( allows you to raise the rear of the coach 4 to 6 inches for additional ground clearance use at slow speeds )
$1,695

They call it their "off road package." I wonder if a guy could rig their suspension for less than $1700?

thank to Bob86ZZ4 for finding and pointing this out.

After seeing the pictures in that other post with the Green HDT with mud up to the tanks, I'd have to call the local John Deere dealership to tow the low riding RumRunner thru.

blizz

Burning used vegetable oil in a diesel engine

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:25:43 -0500

In another topic about building green RVs the subject came up of modifying diesel engines so that they can burn vegetable oil and then getting FREE oil from restaurants to use as fuel. I have read a couple of articles about this and know it can be done.

However, is it really practical? Certainly not for the full-timer in a diesel pusher. But even with a smaller diesel powered truck how convenient is it to find enough restaurant that will save their used oil for you?

I am wondering is this is one of those ideas that sounds great, but will not have much of an impact on other than a few?

Do you leave the keys in towed O/N?

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 21:58:37 -0500

We usually leave the keys in the towed ignition when we're staying somewhere just one night (like Walmart or a rest stop). We do lock the doors of the towed vehicle and of course it is still connected to the motorhome via the tow bar. If this has been discussed I apologize but I did search and did not find this topic. Thanks for your answers!

Isspro Gauges for a Coach

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 21:50:26 -0500

So we're dropping the muffler and some other small tweaks on the 35' Safari. Here's the preliminary plan for the gauges and just me obsessing to make sure we get it right and are not heading up the wrong road. Wrong roads cost money and more importantly valuable time.

Background on our 16 yr old Patient:
- 35' Safari Serengetti (Black Gauges w/wht lettering and white armatures, Green backlight)
- Cummins 8.3L (fuel plate, 3K governor spring & star wheel adjustments)
- OE Rating: 250hp@2400rpm
- Allison Trans
- PacBrake

The previous owner messed with the fuel plate some and said it was pushing close to 300. With us planning on deleting the muffler, doing the spring kit and messing with the fuel a little more we might actually see her start to smoke a little. Maybe... Right now there no smoke at all, mods've been pretty conservative. And we want to keep it that way. Dependability above all else. There's also not a lot of info out there on the Net about 8.3's, mostly 5.9L stuff (it's baby sister), even shares some parts but still... so I called Cummins to get proper info on the motor.

Our patient already has standard gauges including Trans/Water/Oil Temp & Oil Pressure so we're fairly ok there. To complement the stock gauges we will need to add at least a Pyrometer (EGT) and Turbo Boost gauge. Need to make sure we're keeping the girl in decent shape and not riding her too hard. Her recent fitness regimine has been to do mods that help her get up to speed a little better, it seemed a little sluggish when we first picked her up. In order to do that I want the ability to lift her skirt fairly easily and see whats going on inside. A few more gauges should do that nicely. We looked at DiPricol and AutoMeter but after doing a little reading maybe the ISSPro will work better in the long run.

ISSPro PerforMAX - The Electronic Signal Processor (R82000), bus architecture of the gauges, the ability to add future gauges without running additional wires 40+ feet attracted me to this after several other people had recommended them. A little pricey but likely on a coach they'd break even quicker over less expensive gauges than those used in the truck market where runs are shorter. We really don't relish running the Pyro thermocouple wire, along with all the others all that distance, fitting them through the firewall and up into the dash. With the ESP it stays in the engine compartment except for 5 wires (includes the optional dimming control and recall functions). Labor thus should be less and once the basic ESP unit is installed it's a quick and easy step to add more gauges if needed. Also at this point if we wanted to later upgrade the stock gauges to something higher quality then thats a option as well. Not to mention that OEM is not really a option anymore as Safari has been bought and sold I think through 2 other companies at this point. So if the stock gauges or their senders failed we could migrate to IssPRO stuff as needed.

So now we have to determine proper ranges. So many options... 1600 or 2000 degree Temps, 60-80 or 100 PSI boost etc... I'd never had to spec any of this stuff out so maybe it'll help others when determining what they need in a similar circumstance if it's been discussed somewhere. IE for example you can get a 60 psi mechanical boost gauge but on the electrical gauge side it can change. And where does a specific range fit for your diesel as they can be different? (for my purposes and this specific discussion that means a Cummins 8.3L)

Pyrometer (EGT) Gauge:
Exhaust Operating Temp (per Cummins) is 920-935 degrees at 1300 rpm. With a lightly modded engine and getting temps pre-turbo a 1600 degree gauge should be fine. I like the look of the Color Coded R607T, R3607T for this. At 1350+ degrees (or so) you need to start worrying, at least as I understand it. We are planning on putting it in Pre-turbo so keep in mind Post Turbo Color Code gauges have lower limits.
Boost (Turbo) Gauge:
According to Cummins there's 44.1 inches of Mercury. Mercury? Oh that thing they taught us in school way back when... Multiply by 2.03625437 to convert from psi to inches mercury. So thats 21.6. psi. Found several people on the web discussing seeing 26 PSI or so regularly so that confirms. With a turned up motor running more fuel we'll likely see higher boost pressures maybe in the low 30's. Have been told if we start pushing more than 34 psi we'd likely be hurting something. Not totally discounting a bigger turbo later so I'm looking for a gauge with a max pressure of 35 or 40 if possible. Not such a issue with Performax gauges as they are sized with 0-30/40/60/80 & 100 options. Thinking the 40 is the best solution so the R59333 may do the trick.

At this point I've been talking to a few people about what possibly I might be missing or overlooking, maybe I'm picking the wrong range on one of the gauges etc.. One person suggested we go ahead and do one more while we're in there...

Exhaust Back Pressure:
FYI: Cummins only had 3 inches of mercury with all piping and silencer attached so their specs here aren't even close. So this spawned a call to Pac Brake to figure out what we SHOULD be seeing. Assuming the normal springs were swapped for 65's when the brake was installed then a gauge that covers the 0-65 range suits the bill. It can go over 65psi but that would indicate a 'problem' and floating valves, internal engine damage becomes a distinct issue at that point.

I'm thinking of a 0-80 psi for this as I haven't seen anything in a 0-70 available but the 2 options I see are for either R59122 Exhaust Backpressure 0-60 PSI or the R59155 Exhaust Backpressure 0-100 PSI.... Hmmm....? Any opinions on what's realistic in a 8.3 with a PacBrake? Am I ever even going to see 50+ psi in real world situations? Is the 0-60 fine or is the 0-100 the better choice?

More as we move forward with this round of tweeks. Just using here as a sounding board as I hate to do things twice. So now's the time to run it by people with WAY more experience than I'll likely ever have. Any comments, suggestions, or quips feel free to post.

The Second Reason We Purchased Juggernaut

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 20:09:16 -0500

The first reason was to haul our RV and motorcycle. The other reason was to use our HDT as a home-away from home when off seeing the sites.

RV Windshiled Repair in Cheyenne

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 19:30:35 -0500

Hi all. Just had a big ole rock thrown up at the rig on the way from Denver to Cheyenne. Now I have a good size crack in the windshield.

Any recommendations on windshield repair servives in Cheyenne?

Thanks.

Paul
skp#106238

black hills, s.d.

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 19:09:05 -0500

We are looking for a nice affordable campground in the black hills area for a week. ANY IDEAS?

A New, Green RV?

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 18:55:10 -0500

Check out this RV from Evergreen RV a new company that is just over a year old. Has anyone seen one of their products yet? Based upon her favorite subjects in her posts, Cheryle should be their first customer!

Fixing / Replacing Window Screens

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 17:41:46 -0500

A have a 2 x 3 foot dining room table window screen, (which is probably my favorite to have open), which was a bit undone for a few inches when I bought this Sea Breeze, but in the high winds I've been thru lately, it's now almost completely off except for one remaining side. I had an idea that I might just be able to take a small screw driver and push the thin black lining back into place over the screen, but this doesn't seem to be happening. RVs seem to already have to little ventilation, so a window of this size not working in the summer is bad news. Is there a special tool to shove that thin rubber lining back in or do I have to take the whole screen out and take it to a window shop?? And if so, it appears I would have to take the whole window mount out, with all the screws that it has in it, as well as the outer carpet that are in front of it, if not including the pull down shades as well? Whereas a house screen, you would just pop it out and have it fixed, this appears it could be quite a project!

Boondocking Lists / Directories

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 17:20:43 -0500

I have been full-timing from no prior experience ever for about 3 weeks now. I have adopted a general, tentative pattern so far of boondocking week days and then staying at a resort over the weekend. I have been traveling up from Tampa, FL and gone up thru the Outer Banks, in NC, and am currently in Virginia Beach. From here I generally plan to go as far as New York, then start my way back to the west coast in the early fall via Toronto, the midwest and TBD from there.

I have mostly boondocked at Wal Marts so far, ignoring the occasoinal signs of "no overnight parking", (even parking right in front of it) "could be towed", as this is apparently only there so that those who abuse their priviledges will be thrown out. But I'm very easy to work with, and no one has even questioned me or knocked on my door so far, even when sleeping in thru mid morning. This seems to apply at many places - there may be signage but if you don't bother anyone, no one will bother you. Other than that I've found some nice beach spots (and the beach is definitely my favorite spot.) I've had cops go by at some of these spots late at night and was not even approached. Finding these beach spots can take a while though. The $20 a day state beach sites I've seen, I noticed are all back-ins with no hook ups. With a tow dolly that creates big problems, I'd have to drive over some lawn and over the back stop curb to get in there, i.e., with a tow dolly you need a drive thru site.

Some I'm wondering, is there a directory or internet lists of all manner of places to boondock? Other generic places to look for? It would be great to know that wherever I go there will be an abundance of choices for either boondocking or very reasonable camp sites or the equivalent thereof.

V-10 enough to pull HHR

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 15:57:24 -0500

We are looking to buy a motorhome.Doing all this shopping and planning I came upon a question the wife had.Will a new gasoline V-10 motorhome pull a HHR (3200)# up a mountain? This should be plenty of power normally but I wouldn't want to get in a bind.I have been looking at a new 340HP Cummins.If I can't buy new it will be a 400 HP Cummins if I can find a bargain.How much more fuel will a 400HP use over a 340HP?

lake vagas bay?

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:32:48 -0500

Anyone have any knowledge or experience?

looking at a used volvo 670

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:57:46 -0500

I am looking at a used volvo 670 with 509,000 miles for $29,000
Here is the link to it http://www.truckpaper.com/listingsdetail/d...px?OHID=2238881
It was leased to swift trucking.
Dose anyone know anything good or bad about their mantenance schedules?they have had the truck for a while with no luck selling it so it make me wonder what gives?

Connecting batteries in separate compartments

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:44:08 -0500

Looking for advice on how to connect batteries in parallel or series/parallel in separate compartments on a truck camper. Both compartments have a load and ground wire that connect to the dc load center. One of the compartments is the existing battery setup (2-12v wired in parallel) and the other compartment was designed for generator but want to add batteries.

Questions are what makes the most sense and how to wire, either a 12v system in parallel or 6v system wired in series/parallel for batteries in separate compartments? Trying to get 660 ah out of max of 6 golf cart, group 24 or 27 batteries.

Finding WiFI Hot Spots to Access

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:09:19 -0500

Does anyone know of web sites that give public and/or commercial wifi hot spots that anyone could access if on those premises???

New mattress for fold out couch

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:30:13 -0500

Hi everyone, I was wondering if anyone knows where to get a replacement mattress for a fold out couch. I have a flexsteel couch with a queen size air mattress. I really would love to replace the whole couch but the prices I have found are more than I want to spend. The couch is in good shape but the mattress is not. I am in cody wy but I am heading to Salt Lake City in aug. Anybody know that area and a good place to look.

Thanks

QUALITY sewer hose - can you buy it?

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:57:35 -0500

The dreaded time has arrived for me to get some new sewer hose. I never look forward to getting it, typically, because it's often an emergency and the closest and only store open is Walmart, where I can buy several different lengths of paper thin sewer hose while trying to figure out what to use for the ends that are sold out.

Well, this time, I don't want to play that game.

Some years ago, I bought a truly heavy duty (I hate how those words have been adulterated by the advertising we see) sewer hose that has lasted me several years. And it would still have plenty of life left in it if someone had not stepped on it (??) or run the mower over it (??) or whatever else may have happened to it. (This time, I didn't do it, so I really don't know what happened.)

When it came time for new water hoses, I bit the bullet and spent the money for some really good hoses from the waterfilterstore.com. I cringed just a tad when I ordered them (as in spending the extra $$), but have been a very happy camper every since, never once regretting going high end.

My question is, is there such a place to buy sewer hose? I mean really, really good sewer hose, with all the adaptors? I know it'll probably be expensive as I have about a 40' run to the hookup. But dang it all, if I gotta buy new hose, I'd sure like it to have a chance at lasting with full integrity for possibly several years to come.

Anybody have suggestions?

Thanks.

Brian

How much pressure on lift pump?

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 07:59:41 -0500

The volvo starves for fuel after a few days of sitting so the fuel is draining back. When I go to fire it up it fires immediately and then stumbles/stalls. More cranking eventually and painfully gets it going. According to the manual after a week this could occur and may require the use of the primer/lift pump, which when we hook a computer up to the diagnostic port on the truck shows the pump to be running at 2.0 psi. I'm thinkin it should be quite a bit more then that. Haven't found any air leaks into the system yet, or evidence of fuel leaks. Any thoughts?

Trucks at Craven Country Jamboree!

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 07:49:50 -0500

A few trucks showed up at Craven Saskatchewans country music festival. Got pretty muddy out there, even my red volvo wouldn't move on it's own and I wasn't in the real muddy areas, but I had sunk down quite a bit, both the truck and trailer. With the freedomline no chance of rocking out of there by myself. It took two 4wd's tied together in the end to get me moving. The guy in the green freightliner came in after dark and couldn't tell for sure what he was getting into. He had chained up out at the gate, which helped him get in further. Was quite a smoke show watching him get out! We were quite lucky we had 3 good days of drying weather before it was time to leave.

Solo RVing

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:14:17 -0500

Last summer I lost my husband - we were all set to fulltime RV when he became ill and passed away. I miss the camping adventure, the smells etc and wonder if there are other widows/widowers out there who are getting along just fine ! I will not be fulltiming - but, would like to take long vacations and prefer to camp ! Words of wisdom would be appreciated - positives and negatives ! I will need to purchase a small trailer for me and my dog ! Thanks !

Microfiber Chair

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 23:44:59 -0500

Hi, we have a Microfiber Recliner which has gotten dirty around the bottom where the shoes are normally resting.
The Microfiber looks like suede.
What is the best way to clean the every day dirt from the heels of shoes? Would mild dish washing liquid be ok if I rinse it very carefully?
Also, do you think it would be ok to spray with Scotch Guard and then brush it with a soft brush?
Does anybody have any experience with this material?

Solar install Help

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 22:45:16 -0500

Ok I need some help, I just finished installing a solar panel ( 120watt) and a charge controller MPPT-500. I had these on a Small barn in a remote section of the farm with no service. They where used to power 2 ceiling fans and some led lighting connected to 2 gel batteries, they have served me well for over 3 years. I haven't needed the equipment much this year and decided to install it on my MotorHome.
Installation went very well, I have 4 -6volt batteries and just equalized then before installting the solar. When I finished the installation today it was getting late in the day around 6pm. But decided too try the panel and see what I would get. Just over 1amp of chargeing, Ok at this point all is well. So I decide to turn the Xantrax 458 on, By this I mean the charging mode. And I hear a hissing then some smoke and SHIT!! I turn it off. The inverter still inverts power and is still passing power through but I am certain it has some type of damage. I removed the fuse to the charge controller and tried the inverter again but same result hissing and smoke.
I had a problem with this inverter and it chargeing of the house batteries several years back, and it was a internal control board. So my question is did I royally screw up by turning the inverter onto charge mode, I had turned it off while i was working on the solar connection.
One other thing I didn't have the prolink plugged in at the panel but the wire was plugged into the inverter when I manualy started it from the front of the inverter. I have installed small controllers and small 20watt panels on some farm equipment to keep the batteries charged between use and never had a problem.
Its killin me that I have done this, I made and appointment to have it looked at saturday morning by Xantrax service. Either way its going to cost me ,my unit is way out of warranty an this I am sure was a self inflicted wound.
Anything sound so obvious that I missed that you can give me advice on? you could even yell at me I deserve it. I think?
Ok I am done ranting.

Missions tire

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 22:22:02 -0500

We was on the Rt 111 from Yuma and my Mission(Bombs) tire seperated the tread from the rest of the tire made a right mess of the wheel well and fender used the spare to go back to Brawley had the garage put on 4 new ones.Problem no size the same as came off.Now have Good Year LT235/85R16 120/116R E WRL SR-A. the only diffrence is 85R insead of 80R makes them taller.Will I have a problem useing them?
Everest 344J 06 GVWR 14020.
Den.

Looking forward to the 50th Escapade

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 21:39:32 -0500

Prior to retirement I was kinda a stay to myself sort a person. My LEO career kind a wore me out. I was around people (good and bad) all the time. In my off time I appreciated the quiet time. Now in retirement I'm discovering the importance of socializing and meeting new friends and being able to relax away from the LEO mentality (if you know what I mean) Therefore I'm finding I'm more outgoing. Thus I can't wait to see and be part of the Escapade. I am looking forward to meeting as many escapees as possible. I decided to leave Jazz my Dobie with my son because I'm not sure how she would react being alone alot. If I had decided to bring her along, I'd be easily identified by her being at my side. Can't wait and extremely excited to attend.
Bill

Pay As You Go Internet Stick

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 21:27:44 -0500

Does anyone know if there is a pay as you go plan in the USA for an Internet stick? We live in Canada and are thinking of spending the winter in the USA in our motorhome. We had a Telcel pay as you go plan in Mexico last winter that we were very happy with and would love to find a similar plan in the USA. Everything I can find on the Internet requires a two year commitment which would not work for us.

"Hoss" is here

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:46:46 -0500

Well wife named the HDT. It's "Hoss". Got him in Sunday and is it a beaut. Gotta say my experience with Central Carolina Trucks was excellent. So far have been men of their word. Few issues that missed the inspection and Matt at CCT having me take it in to Volvo dealer in Knoxville and gonna have them fixed. Never had a used car salesman treat me so well after they had my money. Will post some new pictures soon.

One of the things that didn't get done that was supposed to was resetting the initial gear on my Ultrashift. That will be done at my appointment Thurs. Truck now set for 1st gear. My 5er is 18,000#. Would you reset to 3rd or 4th as the initial gear?

Please check your baseplate.

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:21:39 -0500

After reading about one of the members of the Tiffin RV Network forum totaling his Jeep Grand Cherokee due to the baseplate coming off while towing I went to check mine and found that I had one missing bolt and another loose. I checked it before last years summer trip. This is the second time in ten years of use that I have discovered a missing bolt.
When I purchased Locktite Red to put on the new bolts I got to replace the old ones the man in the hardware store commented that I was not the first to complain about missing or loose bolts on their baseplate.

In addition to replacing the old bolts I have come up with a way to tie my baseplate to the undercarriage of the Jeep. I am going to also tie the MH trailer hitch to the MH frame.

The person wrote also that his breakaway switch did not work because when the baseplate came off it ripped the switch off leaving the two wires dangling from the front of the Jeep rather than being shorted together by the switch.

395 from Reno NV into Oregon

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:13:15 -0500

Looking at traveling the 395 but not sure about the roads or grades. Could a 30' footer (a or c) handle the run? Any spots to look out for in particular? My Mountain Directory shows nothing, not a single grade on it.

Insurance

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 19:17:55 -0500

Hi .....Can anyone recommend an Insurance Company that will insure contents that we have stored and personal items that travel with us....We are having a hard time getting insurance because of traveling...and no home base. Thanks Vicki

cradlepoint ctr350

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 18:32:41 -0500

We were in an thunderstorm, and it seems like my router fried, at least during the storm, it quit. I had a wilson antenna up, and when I was disconnecting the coax cable, I was shocked. Does this seem possible, and what can I do to eliminate this from happening again. I can't imagine those of you with antennas up, taking them down every time there is a storm. When I was shocked, it really surprised me. I have never experienced that before. Bruce

British Columbia

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 17:54:08 -0500

On our trip to Alaska in 2008, we discovered that Western Canada has many great places to RV. We might want to return to Western Canada next summer, 2011. Is there a site or group on this site that is really "up" on RVing in B. Columbia?

C.

Help finding rv parks with lakes or streams

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 17:42:56 -0500

So far all I have done is go to a state then google rv parks and click on every rv park in the state looking for parks close to or on a lake. Boy-o-boy is this taking a long time.

Anyone have any suggestions on how to cut down the search?

Thanks in advance

JC4UT

wayland

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:39:59 -0500

have you ever used the donvel motion detectors deals ? I have a friend that's been trucken all his life, and put some on his seats and rear@air bags and swears they're the best thing since sliced bread. Wanted your opinion on them before I got the checkbook out. Thanks

USB 727/USB 760

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 14:31:26 -0500

I have had a Verizon usb 727/Cradlepoint 350 setup for three years now. I have been extremely please with this combo and plan to continue with Verizon and this setup. I am a happy camper

I just received an offer from Verizon to upgrade to the new USB 760 for free, normally it would cost $50. This is of course with a renewed 2 year contract, which is no problem as I have no plan to change carriers.

My question is after 3 years of using my 727, how long can I expect it to last? What would be the typical life of one of these modems. I understand that except for being smaller, the 760 is no improvement over the 727.

Should I get the new one, or just let the old one die, then replace it?

Flat Screen TV type?

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 13:20:58 -0500

Our original TV in our motor home finally bit the dust. We're in the process of building a frame
to cover the original opening to mount a new flat screen TV. We are wondering which screen
technology would best handle the bouncing around, LED or LCD? I remember reading a while back that
plasma screens would not hold up. Any thoughts?

Thanx, Paul 52678

wayland

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:23:17 -0500

DVI Motion Controls, have you ever used these ? I have a friend thats trucked all his life, and put some of them on his seats, and drive axle, and said they're the best thing since sliced bread. Thanks

Protect-a-Tow

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:05:27 -0500

Looking ahead to next year for our 2nd trip to Alaska. 1st trip was by motorcycle in 2007, now we"re going for the entire summer next year in our Dutch Star. My Saturn has a bra, but was wondering if anyone here has experience with the Protect-A-Tow?

REFINANCING RV - WHO TO USE?

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:05:17 -0500

We are considering refinancing our 5 year old fifth wheel. We understand that the current rates are quite a bit lower than our current loan and would like to get a recommendation from the membership on who to contact. We are "Texas" residents and the RV is in Arizona.

SLIDE IN CAMPER STABLE LIFT FOR SALE

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:37:43 -0500

We have a gently used stable lift, which is used to easily take a slide in camper on and off your truck. This is a quality unit - all metal is powder coated and in as new condition. It is the support for the camper when off the truck and levels the camper without the use of any ofter leveling devices. Also no tie downs (turnbuckles or chain) are needed. The stable lift holds the camper onto your truck. We are located in Montana and will be in Arizona for the winter. Can make arrangements for shipping to your location if needed. Asking price is $2,000 obo. For more information from the manufacturer you can link his web site at www.stablelift.com. This is the three motor unit. Please e-mail me at jackiegordon44@yahoo.com for pictures and additional information.

Class A Motorhome Shades

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 10:58:04 -0500

Any suggestions where we can find a shade to attach to the inside of our windshield to protect from the sun. We don't want drapes.

Dry weight definition

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 10:18:28 -0500

Dry weight??

I thought I knew what this seemingly simple term meant, but now I see that people use the term a bit differently. So I am wondering how some of you guys use it.
The two ways I have seen it used (perhaps there are more) when discussing a trailer are:

1. The weight of the trailer with all water tanks empty and no batteries AND UNHITCHED.

2. (same as above) BUT HITCHED.

So the obvious result is that the second definition will give a smaller dry weight since the tongue weight will be on the tow vehicle and is not being measured. What definition do you use?

Cheers John

Chase denied my CC application

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 10:17:13 -0500

My post from a previous thread.

I use a BP VISA card. I usually fill at the same station and the little guy just told me to fill up and come in a nd pay. The pump shuts off at $300, but he is cheerful about turning the pump back on and letting me pump as much as I want. Otherwise my card will shut off the pump $100. Best part is the 5% discount on all of the fuel I buy at BP.

I just applied for a Marathon MC that does the same thing because one of my local stations switched from BP to Marathon.

Both cards are issued by CHASE. THey have been great to work with.

UPDATE

Got a letter yesterday that said the cost of "maintaining my account" would be more than they would ever hope to make from me. I applied for the card because my local station switched to Marathon from BP, (nothing to do with the disaster in the gulf). The odd thing was that I received a card that said BP card holders were "preapproved" so I figured it was automatic, guess I was wrong.

UPDATE TO THE UPDATE

I called my local station and got an 800 number and promotion code to call. My new Marathon card should be here in 5 days. I know my local station operator will be happy to keep my fuel business.

boondocking it in Mulege, Baja!

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 03:28:07 -0500

Anyone out there kow where to camp (tents) south of Mulege thats free of charge???.....just a spot on the sand next to the water would be ok with me....lol

Moving to Mulege, Baja, looking for work, anyything!

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 01:14:32 -0500

Looking for something to keep me busy a few hours a day while I'm not off fishing. Just something to keep food in me and gas in my boat. I'll sweep floors, cook, clean, do minor home and auto/motorcycle/atv repairs, detail boats/trucks/RV's, wash dishes....anything at all. 50 yrs. old, mature, not a kid. non-smoker, no drugs. Thanx. David. 801-850-2432 vmxracer1@yahoo.com

trucks for sale ?

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 22:19:58 -0500

What happened with the MDT trucks for sale on here, there used to be a place to see them, but maybe that would result in a sale if it was easy to find.

New Hampshire Hwy 11

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 21:05:18 -0500

We'll be heading to Fryburg, Maine, in September. We like US highways but have had some scary times on state roads that wind around with little to no shoulder. SR 11 and 28 look like an interesting trip but scary is not desired. What say you?

Linda Sand

satelite signal finder

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 20:35:18 -0500

What do you use to find the signal when you are parked? Have ours on a tripod...do you also have a
roof mount? Thanks

class B with a lot of interior head clearance?

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 20:06:52 -0500

Last year, the manager at the RV park where I camphost visited my rig and she decided that she wants to buy an RV for her winter travels. What triggered the desire is that her 6'5" tall husband can stand in my RV without having to duck except in doorways. Suddenly, RVing became a possibility for them. I've seen been shopping for a class C for them, but something tells me they'll find more to their liking in the B class. She wants something small--she finds 24' big--with 'good' gas mileage and enough interior head clearance for her husband. She wants gas, not diesel. Budget is small, no more than 20KCAD. I'm completely out of the loop when it comes to Bs and was hoping someone could help me narrow my initial search?

(I like the fact that I'm being paid to search for an RV for someone. )

Thanks!

furnace fuse

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 19:39:04 -0500

I have a 1989 winnebago chieftain with a suburban furnace. It won't come on. I have been told that there is a 12V fuse for the furnace. Is this true? Where is it.

tire date codes

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 19:19:44 -0500

I just bought 6 new tires for my 5th wheel. the date code on 3 of them is 4809 and 0810 on the other 3. They are all 6 to 6.5 months old. They have not been mounted. should I accept these tires?
Thanks in advance.
JB

Big rig rv parks NS

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 18:26:20 -0500

Can someone recommend a good big rig rv park in the Halifax area for a month long stay?
Gerald

Sirius Radio

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 18:09:25 -0500

After enjoying Sirius for four year it was time to renew my service. It called the customer service center expecting to spend a few minutes updating my account. I spent over 50 minutes on the phone with a man who seemed to be reading from a script and could not activate my account. I had been receiving Sirius the day before and nothing had changed that day. After refusing several requests to be transfered to a supervisor, who might be able to help, I gave up. My RV is now a Sirius free zone.
Garth

Madison, WI

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:45:37 -0500

Looking for a place to overnight Aug 6 in the Madison, WI area. Camping in an Aliner so we need shower facilities.

Finally Legal!

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:16:14 -0500

Truck purchased 5-14-10; 5-27-10 called for appointment to have Hwy Patrol to inspect the magic items to qualify as a motor home; first available appointment 6-17-10- passed; 7-06-10 trip back to Hwy Patrol office to have new vin number installed; 7-19-10 received title and plates from state- I�m legal!!!! Who says the wheels of government have stopped- not stopped just move very slowly. Now to get the ET and Jackaloppe installed. Hopefully by mid August, I�ll be able to pull my trailer.

Needed. One man & one women

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 16:56:06 -0500

Came across this while looking for something completely unrelated. Thought the different job descriptions were interesting. You can see why they need a man & a women.

Compensation includes:
� Campsite, dock slip with electricity
� Store discount
� Free use of rental boat when available
� Hourly wage
Hourse worked would average about 20 hours/week

Qualifications:
� Both must be able-bodied and have good people skills
� Some lifting is required

Duties for the man would include:
� Manning the docks - selling gas and bait, cleaning and servicing the rental boats and bagging ice
� Yard and resort maintenance - garbage disposal, maintaining the fish cleaning house

Duties for the woman would include:
� Cleaning cabins
� Shower house maintenance

Cheers:
Ed

Transmission life?

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:07:52 -0500

I'm wondering if it's possible to have a motorhome tranny checked out to see how much life is left in it?

Electrical Usage

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:03:08 -0500

I am looking for a panel that will show my real time and cumulative elec usage and dispay both watts and amps I would like to install solar cells and more batterys down the road but would also like a real estimate of my usage so I do not over or under size my system right now I have nothing run off the pedastal or run the generator it would need to work withthe new evetully solar cells and battery bank I dont want any thing that will need to be replace so some of you electrical gurues sound off thanks in advance

Hot ! Hot ! Hot !

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 07:58:56 -0500

Since so much of the US is in a heat wave, how about some ideas of how you can help to keep the RV cool and comfortable while you live in it? Cold weather seems to be a frequent subject, but there can be just as much difficulty with hot. Parking in the shade makes a surprising amount of difference, but there are times when this one just is not practical.

Screens on the windshield also help, and heavy draperies can also. Many of the same things that keep heat in for winter can also apply for keeping the heat out in the summer. I would think that this topic might be very timely and perhaps helpful to some our our members? Let's see if we can find some new ideas!

battery power

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 07:12:35 -0500

What I know about electricity would fill only a small two page book! A question.--- When doondocking, with only DC power from the battery "on" in the rig, I assume that there is no way that the TV set, turned off, would be using any power. Is that right? I understand that when a TV is plugged into regular "house" AC power, it uses a little power even if it is off. I assume that this would not be the case in boondocking situations. Right?

Charles

Touring the Country on 2 lane highway

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 06:41:03 -0500

We left Oregon on the 11th of June and have been running 2 lane highway almost exclusively. We have run thru Idaho,Montana,South Dakota,Nebraska,Minnesota,Wisconsin,Michigan following the great lakes, down into Marion Indiana back north to Ohio. corner of Pennsylvania,New York,Vermont,Top of New Hampshire to Maine. Stayed a week got our fill of Lobster. back to New Hampshire then down the border of New Hampshire and Vermont ,Across New York and heading across southern New York for a better look at Pennsylvania before dropping below Baltimore. We have paid two tolls One at the Macinaw Bridge in Michigan and one in Maine when I got caught in the toad. It was only $1.75. I have hit many rough roads but easily managable at 45-55 mph on most of our trip. We still have almost 2 months of travel time left. Have found New York most unfriendly and cannot wait to get out of it again. Most expensive camping have been Vermont,New Hampshire New York and Maine. Hope it gets cheaper the further south we go. I am sad to see most of the shore line of Maine is privately owned down to the low tide line. What a stupid move that was. Come to Oregon where you can walk from California to Washington on the beach. Just take your trash with you.

powder river motel and campground....

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 21:53:57 -0500

Can anyone telll me anything about this park...or how to get there from Csper, WY ...when i google it nothing comes up....I know it gives the gps reading butquite honestly I don't know how to do that on my nuvi.. sorry i put this in the wrong place it should be here not boondocking so if someone can tell me how to remove it from there I will...and again my apologies....

Small dog ramps for Class A: Need ideas

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 20:25:41 -0500

We have 10 & 18 lb dogs who are not supposed to go up or down stairs due to joint & spine issues. The little guy is no problem, but the 18 lb one does not like to be picked up & is really too heavy for us. Our rig has 2 interior steps that they could probably manage.

We'd like ideas about how to rig a landing at door height that would have steps for us and a ramp for the pups. Haven't measured the height, but we have two slide out steps to get from the door to the ground.

We can do simple woodwork and have a friend who can weld metal.

Thanks for any thoughts....
Barb & Dan

Direct TV receiver problems

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 20:12:17 -0500

I am having troubles with 2 of my receivers. One is a newer generation non HD unit. But I have had this problem with other receivers. While watching TV you wioll hear a crackle from the TV speaker and then the receiver shuts down. Sometimes it will restart on it's own but it is now on a different channel. The problem is intermittent. Sometimes it will be once a month. Other times twice in one week.?? The other problem has gone away for now but back in June it was driving me crazy. I would lose the signal suddenly. No signal strength. no messages. I switched receivers . Still the same. Checked all Coax connectors. Still the same. Left the unit on and within an hour signal returned with normal strength. Dish is mounted to our stick house and has not moved. I swear it was DTV having a problem but I havent been able to find anyone else with that problem. Has worked fine for the last 6 weeks.

Thanks

Moisheh

All HDT/MDT's invited to Escapee MDT Rally 2010

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 16:52:31 -0500

The Escapee MDT BoF is holding its annual rally for 2010 at the Berrien Springs Fairground, Berrien Springs, MI from Sept 20 to 24. Everyone is welcome. We invite non Escapee members to attend rallies and get togethers , to meet new friends with a common interest (ie. BIG trucks), enjoy the activities, and learn about the Escapee organization. Several HDT'ers saw this post on the HDT forum last year and came to the 2009 rally in Benson AZ. It was good to see them and all had a great time. We will be voting on changing the name of the MDT BoF to a more inclusive name (Big Rig Truckers, MDT/HDT BoF, just a couple suggestions on the ballot). We have several seminars planned, a wine tasting party, motorcycle ride, and tour of Mor Ryde just to list a few of the events.
Steve Heinzen is the Wagon Master and can be reached at steveh40@earthlink.net to make a reservation.
Following this rally we can caravan to Hutchinson!
Hope you will decide to join us! ddshjs (Davena Szmyt, Pres.)

"low dc" message on fridge

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 16:15:36 -0500

My Norcold fridge keeps giving me a "low dc" message. How come? I have a battery charger 'charging' away on the big utility battery.

popping noise in GM products ?

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 15:47:23 -0500

This may sound like a stupid question for on here, but we have an 04 Impala that when you start forward or backwords, it makes a popping noise like a suspension bushing or something in the suspension. We had it up on a rack and can't see anything, but it is there and getting louder.

powder river motel and campground Buffalo, Wy...

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 15:38:33 -0500

Tiny House On Wheels

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 15:05:34 -0500

Alot of you may have seen this but for those that have a small motorhome and wanting a bigger one, this may be of interest. Beings it is on wheels I assume I can say it is an RV? You can pull some of them with a tow vehicle. Makes me realise my Toy Home is really bigger than I think.

I had to scroll down a ways to get the video. it lasts less than 3 minutes but very inspiring!

http://vitality.yahoo.com/video-second-act...shafer-20910192

interstate roads in Illinois

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 12:53:17 -0500

Any one have recent info on road conditions (const, etc) on I-55 and I-39 north through Illinois??

Thanks.

idling a detroit

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 12:36:35 -0500

I assume it is ok to idle my Detroit 12.7 as in overnight in a rest area, but should I increase the rpm's and , if so, how much?
Gerald

Splendide Washer-Dryer repair

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 10:05:12 -0500

Our Splendide washer-dryer 2000S is not drying. All other cycles are working. I cleaned the pump chamber and it was not very dirty. Does anyone have any suggestions to troubleshoot this issue.

Thanks in advance for any advise.

Maybe domiciling in Fla. not such a good idea afterall.

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 08:24:10 -0500

If you are still considering using Fla. as a homebase as you fulltime you may want to investigate the new drivers license policies. (It has made the news again this morning.) It is now estimated that 400,000 are driving in Fla. without renewed licenses due to the hassles now involved. I assume this would also apply to getting new ones.
Papers required are: birth cert. or passport, social security card, employment records, bills mailed to your current address.

The main hassle is for women who have changed their names, especially multiple times (like remarried.) They interviewed one lady who finally got an attorney after the dufus in the office told her she should change her name. The attorney told her to just try another office. So there are no exact standards and training and I'm sure the DMV employees resent having to actually work for a change. And I'm also sure there was no increased staffing to handle the new proceedures and paperwork.
If there is difficulty they send all your papers to Tallahassee to get an "exemption." They are now issuing about 20 per day. And my guess would be good luck ever seeing your documents again.

These changes have been mandated by Washington as part of sweeping changes to what we have always taken for granted. That, my friends, is what we get for taking them for granted. But this crap is only a small taste of what the new healthcare proceedures will be like when they kick in. And "kick," I believe, is the appropriate word.

The price for fulltiming may soon be some kind of homebase. There are places available here that offer as little as a concrete pad, utility post, and a mailbox. I'm sure they are available in other states also.

Amplifier vs CPE?

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 07:03:18 -0500

Last year I had bought a Deliberent CPE and got frustrated when it seemed to lockup and I couldn't get back into it. I'm looking for something better than the Jefatech linksys solution. On the DoubleRadius site, they are showing 500mw amplifers. Does anyone know anything about these? Is it something that is simpler to use than the CPE?

I'm looking for a low$$$solution that I can have fairly portable for doing live broadcasts. Possibly a mile back to the "base"
The setup I put in for cell, sofar, works pretty good as long as I can get a signal.

I know there are professional broadcast systems but at 3k for the base and 2k for each camera its just not in the cards right now.

pickupamerica

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 07:02:01 -0500

On an encouraging note, here's what a few young temporary full time Rvers are up to:

http://pickupamerica.wordpress.com/

Starting a Diesel

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 06:58:11 -0500

We'll be spending the winter in Florida(5 mos.). My question is, how often should I start or drive my pusher while we're there? Same goes for my generator. How do you go about keeping the tire pressures up?

Tag Axle

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 21:39:21 -0500

I am looking to buy a motorhome. What are the big advantages of a tag axle? Also does anyone know what kind of mileage I could expect? Would it be wise to overpower? Any help would be appreciated.

Breathing difficulties ?

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 19:25:47 -0500

Due to a request from two private messages, I will post the information about the mask that Pam's asthma doctor has her keep on hand to use when some type of air quality issue comes to play. The mask is a cotton mesh which is washable and it has a pocket that uses an insert that is of activated charcoal, but the entire thing is no more than 1/4" thick at the thickest point. It looks rather similar to a cloth surgical mask, rather than like the disposable dust masks that some of us use for woodworking and such.

These carbon inserts can be replaced and they are very effective for tobacco smoke, smog, perfumes, and even skunk. In fact, to date we have seen nothing that it does not solve when Pam's asthma is effected. They can be hot and uncomfortable, but they make it so that she can breathe. She never goes out without one.

The masks cost about $25 plus an additional $7 in shipping. The come from the company I Can Breathe, and the mask that she uses is the Honeycomb ACF Pollution Mask

There are stores that sell them also, but this is the manufacturer and they mail to where you are. I hope that this is helpful to others who may suffer breathing problems.

5er bumper integrity!

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 17:34:26 -0500

Im gonna be traveling soon and Im looking for input regarding the integrity of my 4 inch dia bumper on the back of my 5er. Has anyone had problems hanging a cargo carrier off the back of such a bumper (ill install a receiver hitch on the bumper and the carrier will hang off the hitch) Im thinking of attaching a spare tire bracket off the back of the trailer and then the carrier to the bumper. I dont plan to carry more than a couple of hundred pounds in the carrier. What other system has anyone seen that takes care of the spare tire and the need to carry stuff off the rear? Im just concerned about putting too much weight on the bumper! Any ideas and input welcome, thanks!!

Trimetric 2020 Just Keeps Counting

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 16:57:27 -0500

I have been using the Trimetric 2020 for about 3 years. Last Fall I replaced my house batteries, 4 6 volts. Now I can not get the meter to stop at zero when the charge controller shuts off. It just keeps counting. Anyone ever heard of this? I can reset it to zero but tomorrow it will keep counting. I looked at it yesterday and it is at plus 159 amp hours. I am not sure the new batteries have anything to do with it. It was sometime later that I noticed the problem.
Thanks,
Dan

Fuse burnout when extending front jack of Fiver

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 16:09:05 -0500

Hello,

I need some advice.

I purchased my Fiver mid Dec 2009. The fuse would blowout when extending the front jack. The dealer installed a "reset gadget" to reset the fuse if it tried to blowout. Well, I was not sure about this, but since I don't know anything about that type of stuff, I agreed. I would prefer to fix the problem, not doctor it up. Well, it still shutdowns, but in a few seconds of letting it sit, I can continue to extend the front jacks. Does this sound right, logical, etc to you? Should I bring it back (still under warranty) to insist they correct this problem?

HDTers with Motorcycles, a TPMS for the bike.

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 15:54:10 -0500

Nice compact system for your bike.

Tire Gard

Belt squeel

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 15:36:18 -0500

Put new belts and idler pulley on the Volvo VED12 last fall. The A/C alternator belt is squealing now intermittently, but only when the A/C is on. Doesn't do it all the time, but when it does, it generally starts on a downshift, then keeps squealing for awhile. How much deflection should there be on the belt when properly tensioned? Went out this am and not a single squeal with the A/C on. Go figure. Any ideas? God bless.

Cannot get 129 on Dish

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 15:13:58 -0500

I am getting ready to go full timing and am setting up the RV for Satellite TV. In my home now I have Dish TV. I purchased a Winegard Travler 1000 for dsh TV. I also purchased a VIP211 reciver. I set up the receiver in my home and had Dish authorize it. It works fine, picks up 110, 119 and 129.
I then installed the Winegard 1000 in the RV using the new receiver. The RV is located about 30 mile east of my home. It works fine on all three satellites.
On our maiden voyage we went to a camp site about 60 miles further east of where the RV was parked. I sent up the dish and it locked onto the 3 satellites as displayed in the contole box, the same as before.

When I did a switch test it said I could not find satellite 129.
What am I doing wrong? Or is there a problem with the electronics.
When I go back to where the RV is housed and where I did the installation. I works fine.

Thanks
Roy

Electrical upgrade

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 14:12:18 -0500

to all the electricians on this great forum question? how difficult is it to up grade from 30amp. to 50amp serviceon a 5th wheel trailer.and what do you think cost would be? I plan on updating my rig someday but for now would like to upgrade the power . to all who may reply thank you . Eric

Battery Terminal Spray

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 13:49:10 -0500

Has anyone found a good spray I can use on my 6 volt coach battery terminals to control corrosion? They are inside, under the stairs and every time I check them they have a new coat of green corrosion. I clean them every time with water and an old toothbrush, sometimes using baking soda but it does no good. All I have to show for my efforts are four pair if jeans with acid holes.

Shore Power

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 13:45:53 -0500

Is there any need to put a separate 30 amp circuit breaker in line for the shore power wiring that will connect from the plug on the side of the truck and be run to the inverter? Most pedestal outlets at campgrounds have breakers built into them, and it seems a 2nd breaker would just add redundancy. Also kind of off topic but spoke to Max Brake tech today about wiring power for my controller and they said didn't need to wire red "pedal" wire in as that would only give a display on the controller and really had no other function. Is that correct?