Planning our adventure... advice appreciated

[FULLTIMEWANABE]

We've been RVing since the mid 90's, and about 2 years ago following our RV fridge dying it's 11 year old death, we decided to replace it with a residential fridge and install a large array of solar and ancillary items. Holy Guacamole, the freedom and flexibility both these upgrades have given us the past two years has been wonderful. If we'd known the difference we would have done it years prior. They say you never miss what you've never had but now we've had it, we couldn't imagine doing without either of those two items today.

 

Like Jimalberta says, we love the flexibility and we boondock at least 90 to 95% of the time not liking to plan too far ahead, and we are the same can easily stretch ourselves "if" needed to almost 3 weeks boon docking.

 

Just saying FWIW, and to each their own.

[GEOFFGO4IT]

No matter what used RV you are buying, whether or not you are using an inspector, make sure you do the following. It could just save your life!

 

1. Check the manufacture date of the Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector (on the back). They are good for 5 years only. If in doubt replace. Some rigs don't have one. Be sure yours does. Use only those units approved by UL for RV Use.

2. Check the LP Detector. They are good for 5 years from manufacture date (on the back). Replace if in doubt. Find it close to the floor. Use only those units approved by UL for RV Use. Suggest a combined unit LP and CO

3. Smoke Detector. Good for 10 years. The new Smoke/Fire detectors, approved by UL for RV Use, at about $19.00 would be ideal.

4. Change the batteries on all battery operated detectors.

5. Open the emergency window(s). Make sure you CAN get out in an emergency.

 

These are all life safety issues we find when doing inspections. New LP and CO Detecotrs have End Of Life (EOL) alarms. You cannot turn off the alarm. UL Requirement. People are cutting the wires or removing the batteries to silence the alarm. Check your TODAY.

 

 

Please post when you find you have an issue to encourage others to check their rigs.

[Nomad Hiker]

RE: the tow vehicle. We will need a truck, but we purposefully picked out the 5th wheel before getting the truck. I learned from my friend who purchased a brand new Toyota Tundra THEN a 30ft TT and 6 months later had to trade that brand new truck for another one that would actually tow the trailer!