Here's the place where RVers are helping each other. We ask you to participate in two ways. First, we invite you to send along your comments or questions for posting below. But equally important, we invite you to read through the mailbox, and respond directly to the person posting the question or comment. We'll include the email address for all items requesting reader response -- so you can click on it and contact the writer directly. To send your question for posting in the RVers Mailbox, just click here. All submissions are subject to editing, and will become the property of RVers Online.
Subject: Searching for an RV Consumer's Report Publication
July 23, 2010
My husband and I are looking for a new/gently used travel trailer. I’m interested in finding a publication that will help us evaluate the many different manufacturers. Most dealers will naturally be biased toward the make/models they sell and it difficult to gather objective data on the quality and customer service of individual companies. Does anyone know of a reliable publication that will help us with our decision-making?
Thank you.
Subject: RV Optional Heating System
July 14, 2010
Until now the standard for heating Recreational Vehicles has been to use bottled propane (LPG). With the CheapHeat™ that is no longer the only option. Now, you have a choice to change the central heating system between gas and electric with the simple flip of a switch. When you choose to run on electric heat, rather than gas heat, your coach will be heated by the electricity provided by the RV park. With the CheapHeat™ it is common for even full-timers to go up to a year or more without having to refill their propane tanks. Because now the propane is only being used for incidentals like the stove or in some cases hot water.
Check it out at www.rvcomfortsystems.com
Larry McGaugh
+++While we don't usually publish this type of susbmission, we did find something "new" here in this type of product. We've chatted further with Larry, and will be interested to see if this innovation gets traction.
Subject: class A vs class C
July 6, 2010
My wife and I have decided that we want to buy a used RV . We are in a huge dilema on whether to buy a Class A or C.
We plan to use it a lot on family camping trips and the occassional weekend getaways. I'm trying to find out which class generally handles best, is easier to maintain, and better suits our needs . When we camp we prefer to dry camp away from rv parks and crowds. When we go on trips we plan to tow my F-150 behind. Given these facts which class would we have the best luck with?
+++One of the most critical issues for RVers tends to be "floor plan", as that has a great deal to "liveability". There tends to be more variations w/the Class A units, but many folks find the Class C arrangement perfect for their needs. Class A units can be significantly bigger, heavier, and capable of towing larger vehicles.
Subject: RV model and manufacturing consumer reports
July 3, 2010
Dear Sir,
We are contemplating buying a fifth wheel rv travel trailer. Are there any consumer resource guides comparing models and manufactures? Our main areas of concern are:
1. payload capacities. 2. reliability. 3. overall quality 4. resale value. 5. customer satisfaction.
we have heard of JR Consumer Resources - can anybody confirm if this is a good resource book and any other comparable resources?
Sincerely
+++Many RVers ask about "consumer reports" type information on RVs. The resource you've identified is thought be some to be helpful, though we're unable to express an opinion on that. Perhaps the best information you'll find is from owners of specific brands and models. Moreover, having the right dealer and sales person can also be critical to a successful RVing experience.
Subject: Request
June 29, 2010
I am a full time RVer of more than 4 years and frequent your website often. I know this is a non-commercial website, but I provide a service to RV Park Owners that I would like to bring to their attention. I have provided my own Name and contact phone rather than simply push out a marketing email with the company information. I would like you to view my commercial site at http://www.YourRVParkWebsite.com and make your own decision as to whether it could be useful to the Park Owners that visit your site. Please specifically view the “About Us” page when you have time. Either way, I appreciate your website and often recommend it to people I meet.
Thank you,
Paul Smith
+++Thanks Paul. We usually don't include items such as this in our Mailbox, but your note represents what we consider an important trend. Are we seeing a change from "RV directories" to individual, personalized RV searches when RVers are looking for an RV park or campground? This would be our perception; and though gradual at first, this could be an accelerating trend. We think it's crucial for any RV park to have an attractive, efficient, inviting and friendly website. Moreover we think it should be kept current. And optimally have information and resources that will tend to keep readers checking back periodically, knowing there will be something new and intereresting to them.
Subject: So many questions
June 28, 2010
Hello...am in the process of purchasing a small midwestern RV campground. and came across your site in my search for information. Bonus when I discovered your site as I have questions about WiFi and satellite tv, both of which this park does not currently offer. I am, however, wanting to provide that service, as I want to build up my clientel and know that the younger RVers use those features daily. Specifically I need to interact with park owners that currently offer wifi/satellite, as I am a user of these technologies, but have no knowledge of providers.
I merrily shall keep searching for specific information. Loving the new challenge of a retirement job!
Subject: RV Park info
June 26, 2010
I have been reading FOR OUR ONLINE RV PARK OWNERS.... We are fulltimers and are considering building a RV Park in East Texas. I have been reading all I can and looking at all of the websites. We have stayed at many parks and have ideas of what to do to build a successful park. I would like any info that you or your readers can give. We are interested in having a park for mainly fulltimers but want to have the overnighters also . We are thinking about putting a 10' x 10' chain link dog run and a 10' x 10' metal storage building at most sites. The site sill be 20' x 50' concrete with full hookups with both 30 and 50 amps. We are also thinking about putting some 20' x 50' metal covers over some of the sites not all because we know that this will affect the roof mount satellite. We want to have free WIFI and TV. We will be located about 3 miles off of Interstate 20. We have two sites that we are looking at, one is 30 acres on a state hwy and the other is 15 acres on a county rd. The 30 acres are mostly open pasture land and the 15 acres is heavy wooded with mature oak trees. We like the oak tree site the best because of the shade possibilities but the 30 acres are on the state hwy. Both are less than 8 miles from the city of Canton. We need all the input we can get. We are not doing this just to make money as we have a residual income that more than pays our bills and spending money. We really enjoy the lifestyle and meeting people.
+++Not quite sure what you mean with a mix of "full timers" and overnighters. "Full time" to most RVers means "traveling" RVers that may choose to spend a month or two at one locaton, then travel on. Another flavor would be persons who choose to live in an RV as a permanent place of residence (i.e., absent the "travel" component). Some would call these folks "permanents". Trying to mix the latter with overnighters or short term guests can be a challenge. As to the notion of chain link fencing and metal storage sheds, there may be a reason one doesn't currently find that setup at RV parks currently. We won't speculate further on that. But instead of a bunch of chain link fences, you may want to consider an enclosed off-leash dog run, which is favored by many RVers.
Subject: Gulfstream Sunvoyager 2005
June 26, 2010
I am considering purchasing a 2005 Gulfstream Sunvoyager Class A Motor Home. Has a Chevy vortec engine, not being very familiar with this unit someone might be able to give me some information on the plus and minusof the unit.
Thanks,
Subject: Rebuttal to "Reflections on rv dealers"
June 21, 2010
All,
I find your site extremely useful and sometimes entertaining. At first glance, it's hard to see a place where someone could respond to material published (like in a blog page, etc.)- so I decided to do it this way. I have attended lots of rv shows in the past and we've had contacts with the sales advisor you had at Guarantee. We found the person pleasant, but not particularly informative. At the same time, the advisor seemed more interested in an aqauntence from a previous encounter and our experience ended there. It wasn't just this that made us consider another dealership for our purchase- but also the reputation of the manufacturer. (They are still in business today, and we're thankful because we've relied on them to repair our rig after an accident).
It's always interesting to consider the fact that for at least every positive experience at any particular place, there are at least that many negative ones...We're happy to hear yours was positive though.
Sincerely,
+++We'd agree that wherever you have a positive experience, that's the "right place" for you. And how nice to have a product where the manufacturer is still extant! You obviously are a very perceptive purchaser!
Subject: Some Hints About Troubleshooting Wiring Nightmares
June 20, 2010
[Note: this relates to a previously posted inquiry]
Hi Nancy,
I can emphatize with your situation. In my retired state of mind and living way down here in paradise I am often called upon to excorcise wiring nightmares on cruising sailboats that are at least as complicated as a sophisticated diesel pusher (which I also repaired before I retired and fled south).
As you well now by now some "electrical technicians" are more adept than others. Really top-notch techs are in high demand and also are as hard to find and access as a guru residing on the peak of a remote mountain top.
I am not familiar with the methodology of your coach wiring but if I may I think I can help; or at least help you to help yourself. If your electrical system isn't color coded (and many aren't) then it seems to overwhelm most technicians.
The single method that I have found to aid the identification of individual circuits is a "Wiring Tracer Instrument". This is a battery operated signal generator that has a separate receiver with audible beeper. The generator is about the size of a barbecue lighter and has its own battery, so the coach electricals can be switched off for testing. After the signal generator is attached to a (disconnected) wire under test then the handheld receiver can be used to trace that wire all the way to a destination, which on a sailboat for instance can be seventy to a hundred feet away.
Wire tracing instruments are commonly used to troubleshoot and trace out communications circuits but they sure are useful in cases like yours. They are not expensive and indeed are really not expensive when compared to sky-high hourly shop labor rates these days.
Wire tracing instruments can be found at such places as FRYS ELECTRONICS, and even HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS. Electronics supply houses (look in the yellow pages) also sell good quality tracing instruments. A novice "should be able to" grasp the ergonomics of using such a tool almost instantly. If you obtain a tool and approach a mechanic or technician who balks at the use of a wire tracing tool then I would be more than curious as to why that is the case if you catch my drift.
Saludos de Michoacan Mexico,
Subject: Building an RV Park
June 18, 2010
I read your articles about building and starting an RV park and found the information and research that was done extremely well done and very informative, thank you for creating such a useful site as this. We made several changes after reviewing the articles enclosed within.
We will be starting our first RV park in Tellico Plaines Tn. this year and was looking for some advice that I did not see on your site that would be helpful if you could advise or comment on.
Part of the amenities offered would be exclusive private use of 800 wilderness acres that is part of the 14 acre 75 site park that has trails that take you to ridge views, streams, caves etc., is that something that RVers ever look for or would want within a park?
Second question, because the property and the mountain is so large, there is enough acreage to separate walking & hiking area's from ATV recreation, should these two be mixed?? I don't know if allowing ATV usage on the property would be distracting for others that want to just sit and enjoy the peace & quiet of the area or those walking and exploring the mountain and nature's sounds? If that should be the case and its either one or the other do you know if RVers travel with their ATV and look for property like this?
Thank you for your time and thank you for sharing all the information you have collected on your site for people like us to learn from.
Regards,
Jim Fontaine, Kissimmee, Florida
+++We think this is probably best left for reader comment. "Wilderness" area would be prized by many RVers, but would require some careful marketing efforts to let people know about its availability. In our view putting ATVs into the mix could be a risky challenge.
Subject: We need your immediate help Please
June 17, 2010
Was wondering if you could send a shout out to your readers to see if anyone could help us. We are looking for a wiring schematic for a 2000 Magnum Chasis for a 2001 Serengeti Safri motorhome.
Here is our story:
On Monday, June 14th, we were stopped by a nice motorist informing us that our brake lightes were not working. We thanked him and called ahead to Camping World in Belleville, MI to see if they could get us in. We drove 650 miles that day just to get there. Tuesday morning, a tech was assigned to fix our brake lite. He hunted and hunted and went thru all the wires for about 2-1/2 hours to finally found which wire the brake lite was and found out it had jiggled loose, so he did not have the correct part so he just used electrical tape to make sure it did not jiggle loose and told us somewhere down the road we should have it fixed.
Well, we started our way down the interstate and noticed that our exhause brake no longer worked! We called back and the tech said to come back as he knew which wires he forgot to put back.....
Needless to say, he did not fix it, instead he sent us to Cummins here in New Hudson, MI. This poor tech worked and worked trying to undo what the other tech had done. He worked for 7-1/2 hours before he just said he could not find the problem he found that there were at least 6 wires crisscrossed that the other tech had done and that there were over 100 combinations that would have to go thru.
The service manager called Monoco and found out that when Safari sold their business to them in 2001, they did not have any wiring schematics for the Safari coaches.
I have called our insurance company to find out what options and help they can do, as if Camping World will not pay for their Tech's problem, I needed to find out what other avenues we could take.
Needless to say, we are truly upset to have to drydock now for 3 nites and still not any better than when we first stopped!
If you or any of your readers can help us immediately, please let us know.
Thank you help.
Nancy Fassbender
+++We've had a bit more correspondence with Nancy on this. She shortly wrote back to say Monaco had provided what they thought was the needed information. But as it turned out, the information was not sufficient for them to resolve their problem. There is apparently a difference between the Cat and Cummins chassis wiring scheme -- so these folks still would welcome any help they could find.
Subject: Your post about rising camping fees
June 17, 2010
We couldn't agree more with your bulletin board post about rising
campground fees. Totally ridiculous & outrageous to charge what some
places charge these days! Retirement 10 years ago gave us the time to
travel anytime we wanted to, but increasing costs of fuel & campng
fees have cut into our traveling budget. State parks are our
favorites, but, with their daily entrance fees added to the overnight
camping fees, it gets "pricey". We keep our state's annual pass which
helps, but, for example, last week's trip to Cheyenne Mtn SP in
Colorado Springs, we paid $36 for 6 days entrance fees above our
camping fees. (It's a great park.).
We rarely even consider the "resorts" because of the costs. Love the
rving--been doing it since1977--but wondering how much more we'll be
able to afford!
+++While we still believe RV park prices near destination areas are straining the bounds of reasonableness, in fairness I'd have to report that we recently found an incredibly scenic park in north Idaho that offered widely spaced paved sites, quality 50 amp service, and all for the whopping sum of $7.50 per night. So there are still some fabulous "deals" out there. [We've described this park in some detail in "Entry #5" of the trip journal documenting our present travels.]
Subject: Mail Forwarding
June 11, 2010
Hello....We are now residents of TN and are going to become fulltime motorhomers. We would like to know if there are any mail forwarding services in TN.
+++When you're truly full timers, you'll likely find it's not essential to have a mail forwarding service in Tennesee. However, our readers can offer their opinions on that...
Subject: Escapees CARE Center
June 11, 2010
Hi - love your website and find stuff in it often. Thanks!
The article on the Escapees CARE Center needs to be updated - prices and number of spaces, etc. If you wish, I'll research the data and send it on to you. We are spending the month of June here as volunteers - cooking, cleaning, transporting, etc. It's work! but it's worthwhile!
+++How nice of you to do that! We do depend on continuing reader input to keep our information as current as possible. Thanks!
Subject: Satellite TV - RV Only Providers
Date: June 11, 2010
I have search the web to no avail trying to find a satellite provider
that will let me set up my motorhome (only) satellite. Direct TV and
Dish both require installation in your home before you can start an
account in your RV. I have FIOS and do not want to switch to satellite
for my home just because I now own an RV. Does anyone out there have a
TV program service just for RVs. I am a first time motorhome owner and
I am learning as I go. I have a TracVision in-motion satellite dish -
HD TV. I think all I need is a receiver and provider account, how hard
can that be?
Thanks in advance.
Respectfully,
+++We have had an "RV only" DirecTV account in the past, and had no difficulty with doing so. There is a secondary issue of "local channels", but you should be able to get an account for just your RV.
Subject: golden age card
June 11, 2010
Where can I get the card in Louisiana?
Ronald Mallet, Abbeville, La
+++While we'd leave that for response by our Louisiana readers, we're tempted to mention that since you live in Abbeville, there's a nearby information resource of national stature. That would be Betty's RV Park, at the south edge of town. Betty and her loyal band of RV guests could likely provide RVing information on just about any topic you might have....And you'll find Betty and her guests to be a wonderfully friendly bunch!
Subject: Mystery switch...
Date: June 10, 2010
We just bought a used 2005 Open Road 321 rbhs trailer by Pilgrim, and we have a wall switch we can't figure out what it controls. It is located on the side wall of the entertainment unit below the furnace and air cond. switch. Would greatly appreciate any help identifying what it controls.
Tthanks,
Karen
From:
Subject: Generators on the road
Date: June 9, 2010
We have been rving for years with a 5th wheel and have decided to test (rent) a class C for a week. We have no experience with a built in generator and have a question.
Can you run the generator while driving down the highway? To run microwave and or hair dryer
+++You might invite other issues running the microwave or hairdryer rolling along at 60 mph on the highway, but probably the generator would not be one of them. It's not uncommon for RVers to run a roof A/C while underway, which requires the generator.
Subject: trip planners
June 2, 2010
Good Morning!
We have bought our first RV, an airstream travel trailer. We are very excited and yet newbies! Our first real trip is to Niagara Falls. We have done extensive searching online for info. Do you have any recommendations for online rv trip planners? Any info would be very helpful!
Thank you,
+++We're not quite sure what's meant by "online trip planner". However, there are extensive online resources to get reviews on RV parks. See especially http://www.rvparkreviews.com/
Subject: Dutchman
May 28, 2010
I am trying to contact the Dutchman manufacture of RVs.
+++Perhaps one of our Dutchman readers can help with the contact info...
Subject: New to RVing, maybe
May 23, 2010
Hello out there,
My wife and I are considering purchasing a Class B (or on the small side Class C if possible) and wondering if anyone has an opinion on what vehicles are reputable and reliable, and what to stay away from.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
+++RVers have definite opinions on specific brands. But also key with the first purchase is to analyze how you intend to use the RV, and ensure the size and style are suitable for your specific purposes. Some would have a tendency to perhaps purchase something just a bit smaller than they eventually find comfortable -- so it's key to getting it right the first time!
Subject: RV Club Links
May 22, 2010
You have a great website and I have added it to our list of RV sites on our RV Radio Network website ( http://www.rvradionetwork.com ). We are a club consisting of over 200 RVers who are also ham radio operators, or are interested in becoming licensed ham radio operators.
We would much appreciate a reciprocal link from your website to ours.
Thanks,
K4HM – Hank
+++Normally we do not "trade" links, as our only interest is to create and maintain links that we think are of value to our readers. Our current "Club" links are RV brand specific, so it's not quite a fit there. However, we do think information about ham radios does touch an interest among some of our readers (we're "KD7ZYU"), and we'll be pleased to add a link in our General Interest Section.
Subject: New RVers
May 22, 2010
We are thinking of purchasing our first RV, so we're novices. I'm reading everything I can so I go into this somewhat educated. It appears that my choice is a Class C...not too big, but self contained.
I found one that has low mileage and is reasonably priced. I don't want to insult the people, but not going to pay the asking price. I found another one, exactly the same model and mileage close at $5,000 less. It's too far to make the trip. If the RV we're looking at is in good shape, would it be appropriate to make an offer $5,000 less than the asking price? That seems like such a big price difference.
Thanks,
Marlene, OHIO
+++While no one can be an "armchair negotiator" here, I think it's fair to say that when selling an RV the "asking price" is just that -- the highest value that a seller thinks he can place on the unit for sale. The market presently still favors buyers, not sellers, so most sellers either are or should be prepared to consider a steep discount from the published market value. It surely is not "insulting" to offer a potential seller an amount that after careful research you deem the fair market value of the unit.
Subject: Travel blog submission
May 21, 2010
Hello. I would respectfully like to request to add my travel blog to your site:
http://canineandabled.wordpress.com/about/
The blog is a great story about a single Mom with a traumatic brain injury overcoming 4 years of homelessness and embarking on an exciting adventure; full-timing in an RV, conducting a service dog/brain injury awareness campaign while on the road.
Kimberly Carnevale, President/founder
+++While we have never taken on a project to evaluate and link to travel blogs, when we learn of one that is RV related and might be of interest to some of our readers we're happy to make note of it here in our Mailbox.
Subject: schematics for Bounder RV need urgently
May 19, 2010
I am having a problem with my Bounder RV electronics in the flashers and heating system and need schematics ASAP as it is causing problems with lights, etc. while driving. We are presently driving across country and cannot find anyone to service it. do you have an email site I can find out? Has anyone else had this problem with the heater, dash, headlights, and turn signal. When the turn signal is on it pulls power from the auxilary plug. it causes the turn signals lights to come on simontaionously. :
+++We've taken steps to try to get a "quick reply" for Ray. However, on the theory that the issue may still persist as of the time we're publishing the update, we thought we'd offer this up for possible reader comment as well.
Subject: Direct TV
May 19, 2010
Hello!
Background: We have a Kingdome satellite on our RV which we have never used. We have FIOS in our stick house and do not want to change to a satellite company for our home. We would like to have Direct TV for the few occasions we want TV in our motorhome without spending a lot of $$ every month for the rv-ers Direct TV service..We are NOT full-timers and are not retired folks with lots of camping time available so our usage is minimal.Everyone suggests we get the Traveler's Service from Direct TV...but that is just NOT cost effective for us.
Question: The only person we know who uses DirectTV is in New York. We are in California. If he leases a second receiver and lets us use it will it work for us? I understand that we will probably NOT get his local channels.
We currently use the OTA antenna and sometimes get reception and sometimes not but we'd like to try using the Kingdome since we have it!
Thanks for any input you can give us!
+++You may be asking a friend for a favor that is not contemplated by the terms of his contract with DirecTV. Others may be able to offer up some options...
Subject: overnight parking
May 17, 2010
To all:
With walmart no longet allowing overnight parking along the 405 area in LA, I am in need of a safe place to pull over . I so far have been lucky enough to get thru to my destation the last time, so this is for a back up so to speak.
Subject: Setting the Clock...
May 16, 2010
I have a 2006 Winnebago Chalet 322RR on Ford F350 Chassis. Purchased it used and no guidebook. Can anyone tell me how to set clock time. Have tried Googling, but only response didn't fit question so didn't work.
+++It would be surprising to learn that Winnebago did not have some sort of help line to handle this type of question either online or by toll-free number...
Subject: battery charging problem
May 15, 2010
I recently purchased a 2004 Forest River Sprinter RV. The house battery gets
charged by the auxiliary generator, but not by the engine alternator. Any
help would be appreciated.
+++We've seen that a number of times with Alpine units, and in most cases it turned out to be a faulty solenoid that was preventing the batteries from recharging on the engine alternator. Others may have ideas....
Subject: Mailbox Inquiry
May 13, 2010
Good day.
Perry Dennis White is my name. Am enquiring if you do have Mailbox instock for sale.
Let me know the various types and designs that you do have instock and if possible let me know the prices that goes with it as well.
I will also like to know the lead time to have it ready to ship if being purchase and also the payment options that is allowed on this particular Order.Your Quick response will be well appreciated as well.
Thanks
Perry D. White
+++We do keep track of the submissions that qualify as the most unusual "Mailbox Inquiries" we've every seen here -- at this one surely is in the running for first place....
Subject: preparing for a hurricane for your RV
May 13, 2010
Do you know where I could find some hurricane safety tips for your rv during a storm? I’m looking online and have not had a lot of luck.
Thank you!!
Barbara
+++I suspect there's not a much in the way of information resources on this specific topic. However your query was noted by David Eidell, and he's responded with what should be some helpful pointers....
Subject: Real Life MPG
May 11, 2010
We are looking at a 2007 Monaco Knight (40') with a Cummins 330HP engine. I am hoping there is someone out there who can shed light on real life miles per gallon.
Thanks!
+++While each unit has its own "personality" in terms of fuel consumption, and while RVers tend to describe their fuel economy in, shall we say "optimistic" terms, I'd be expecting something in the 8-9 range. Perhaps someone with the 330 could provide an estimate based on experience.
Subject: State Parks Directory On Line
May 9, 2010
What is the best user friendly directory (on line) for All 50 State Park Camping?
Thanks for any suggestions.
+++Good quesiton - has anyone seen the perfect site?
Subject: RV park information for business plan for school
May 8, 2010
Hi,
I really appreciated all your info on rv parks. My husband and I have been looking into buying one, so I decided to do a business plan for school on an rv park. I was wondering if it would be okay if I took some of the statistics from your website? There were some numbers and percentages as to who were traveling by rv's. Also, do you know of any other websites that would have statistical information for me? I am looking for statistical data on whether the industry is growing or declining. From what I understood is that because of the gas prices, rv's are down, but if may be slowing increasing.
Thanks for any help. I have been looking on-line for awhile, but my plan is due this coming week. I have found an rv park I would like to buy, but we aren't quite ready, my husband has 5 years until retirement.
+++We've replied separately, but would only note in passing that this is a very challenging and sophisticated business, and requires a great deal of research and planning to ensure success. There are a surprising percentage of RV parks "for sale" out there -- even if not apparent to many RVers....
Subject: Buying the right truck
May 5, 2010
I am about to buy a tow vehicle for a new Cameo 36FWS fifth wheel and want to make sure I get the right truck. If anyone owns this Cameo and bought the 'right truck' for it, I would sure like to get your help on this one. I don't want to buy a truck too big OR too small and am considering a 2010 Dodge Mega Laramie 4x4.
Thanks,
+++Surely the list of candidates for "right" would be those few trucks that have the manufacturer's specifications that can meet/exceed the payload required for your fiver. We know some RVers really have "favorites" when it comes to heavy duty tow vehicles...
Subject: INTERESTED IN
May 3, 2010
Hi this is john @ APR. RV SALES in mesa , az
We are interested in advertising on your site
plz contact by phone or email
Thank you,
John
+++Hi John. As we've separately advised, as a matter of policy we don't include any advertising, or any "purchased" links at this site. I've posted your note only because we receive quite a number of requests to advertise, and perhaps this will provide notice of our policy on such matters. Thanks for writing.
Subject: New Daytona Beach area campground.
April 28, 2010
Greetings,
We are beginning an adventure here in the Daytona Beach area. A brand new 100 site RVrs Tropical Garden.....
We would very much like input from your members and associates. . . simply put, What would you like to see in a very nice campground that you often DON'T see or get? Full timers are probably more aware of shortcomings than the 'cheerul whiskalongs'.... but all comments are very welcome. .
Many Thanks to you and your readers.
Judie St. Onge, Manager
+++You're correct that one needn't be a full timer to have a valuable comment here. We'd offer up one -- most parks give little attention to pets. Often there is no suitable "doggie walk" area -- away from the RV sites. We've seen a very few parks that recognized the demand for this amenity, and it surely seems to pay off. One even installed a pet washing station, where by inserting a reasonable fee a pet owner had access to the same professional type pet washing facilities and supplies that one would find in a commercial "wash your own pet" store. I'm sure others could offer up other items for a wish list.
Subject: Dingy towing in Canada
April 27, 2010
I have a Fleetwood,Tioga Class C 22 ft Motorhome and tow a 2006 Jeep Wrangler, we are planning a trip through Canada to Niagara Falls. Do I need a braking system for the TOAD while in Canada?
I have read it both ways, any help is appreciated
Thanks
Ray & LeAnne Moore
+++I believe you'll find the requirements, and perhaps enforcement of same, may vary across the Provinces. We're most familiar with British Columbia, which clearly requires a braking system in most situations. Moreover what you're describing here -- a 22 foot Class C towing a car that weighs in close to the 5,000 pound mark -- identifies a combination that would be at the high end of the "needs it anyway" list.
Daytona RV Park & Tropical Gardens... opening set for late fall 2010.
Subject: Listing
April 20, 2010
My name is Ian Horgan and I am currently the manager at Carrabelle RV resort. Currently you are listing Ho Hum RV park in Carrabelle, how can I list our RV resort on your site?
+++Hi Ian, and thanks for writing. We have long enjoyed inclusion of RV park owners and managers here, and our note provides an opportunity to clarify how we include RV park listings here. We are not a "directory" or a rating service. However, we do list RV parks that we've visited and feel comfortable in recommending to our RVer readers. That is a listing of our "Favorites". Secondly, where an RV park offers free high speed Internet access for its guests, since our readers are by definition interested in that fact we've compiled and maintain a list of what we've labelled "High Speed Enabled" RV parks. And finally, we've offered to publish a short, non-commercial introduction of those RV parks that participate here. Just drop us a note briefly outlining your facility and we're happy to include it in our Mailbox. Only the "Favorites" and "High Speed Enabled" listings become a permanent part of the site. Thanks for the opportunity to clarify this point.
Subject: Question regarding survey results
April 18, 2010
Hi Tom and Stephanie,
My name is Jill Fjelstul. I am an Asst. Professor in the College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida. I'm also an avid RVer. I own a 37 foot Gulfstream and get out on the road as much as possible. I've delayed my next trip just a bit because I just rescued a 4 month old puppy! He's full of energy and is very "untrustworthy"! I'm up to 2 cats and now 2 dogs traveling! What was I thinking??? I may have a story for your readership!
The reason for my email is that I am trying to highlight/expose the RV industry into academic journals. Surprisingly, there is little coverage in the journals and that's a shame. You have conducted some surveys with some good data results. I would like permission from you to use some of the data when I'm trying to "profile" the RVer, including highlighting our demographics as well as our patterns and trends. My goal would be to have the article published in a travel/tourism journal. Obviously, I can't say for sure until the manuscript is accepted.
Would you be o.k. with your data going into my article???
Thanks for your time and consideration. Looking forward to hearing back from you.
Best regards,
Jill
+++While we've separately replied to Jill, we thought some might find this type of research of interest...
Subject: Riverside golf course and RV park (chehalis washington)
April 12, 2010
hello friends,
My name is Tony Abbott and im the general manager at the riverside golf course and RV park. we are a new RV park to the Centralia Chehalis Washington area sitting right on the golf course with easy access in and out of the park, we are currently in the possess of landscaping and making the park a real friendly destination for golfers and rv'ers alike.
we have 25 spaces ranging from 30-40 feet in length and 12 feet wide "pads" with 12 feet between the spaces so we offer plenty of room for our guest to open up and not be confined, we are pet friendly (not on the golf course but in our big pet area and around the park) we offer a wonderful roof top bar and and bistro for our guest to eat and drink at with a friendly staff.
any other questions please fill free to email me or call me at (360)-324-0318
thank you for your time and interest in riverside RV park.
Subject: No-see-ums remedies
April 7, 2010
Hi. We noticed several posts in the Mailbox about those bothersome no-see-ums. They seem to enjoy licking up bug sprays.
The miracle solution is to apply Avon Skin So Soft. Don't know why - but it works. Slather it on and relax.
Then you don't have to worry about the crazed itching!
Hope this helps.
Best Regards,
Barry & Vanda Monkman - Wagonmasters
+++It's interesting that a thread concernng no-see-ums has caught such widespread attention. Hopefully some of the suggestions offered will prove useful...
Subject: Pet containment for RV owners
April 7, 2010
Hello,
We have been selling more and more of our pet enclosures to RV owners who say the product is perfect for their lifestyle because it’s easy to assemble and breakdown. If you feel that our product is something your visitors would find useful, we submit the following information:
CatsOnDeck has a patent pending enclosure kit that is essentially panels and clamps used to assemble an enclosure of varying sizes and configurations to best suit the needs of their pets and their storage capacity. The panels can also be easily configured into a pen for small dogs.
The kits are incredibly sturdy and all components are designed to withstand any type of weather condition.
If you would like more information our web site is at:
http://www.catsondeck.com/
Best regards,
+++While we don't provide for advertising at this site, we do on occasion post information on new RV-related products that our readers might find of interest.
Subject: A cool place to stay for the summer
April 6, 2010
We are looking for a campground to stay in this summer where the weather is cool and there are plenty of activities in the campground and in the surrounding area to keep us busy. We like Colorado because we do enjoy riding atv's. Can anyone give us some suggestions of places to stay, so we can escape the heat of the summer?
Thanks,
+++I can't help but note that if you like to escape summer heat, and enjoy ATVs, there is likely not a better place anywhere in summer months than right here along the central Oregon coast. The Oregon Dunes National Recreation area has to be among the top ATV destinations in the world. We certainly enjoy exploring miles and miles of semi-forested sand dunes that stretch for many miles going south from Florence. And escaping the heat is never an issue!
Subject: FCCC: "Know Before You Go" Tips for Your Readers
April 1, 2010Good morning:
Summer is right around the corner, so it’s a good time to share with your readers the importance of routine RV chassis maintenance before they hit the highways with friends and family. To ensure a smooth ride, FCCC suggests several “know before you go” tips from maintenance and service expert Mike Cody, director of Camp Freightliner. Please consider sharing these with your readers to help them have a relaxing and safe summer road trip season:
1. On chassis equipped with a rear radiator, it’s important that the radiator and charge air cooler be inspected at regular intervals. We recommend that you inspect the charge air cooler every 7,500 miles. Dust and air are constantly blowing through the radiator and can cause build up and reduce airflow through the cooling system.
2. If it has been more than 18 months or 24,000 miles since the last transmission has been serviced, change the fluid and filter.
3. Check the charge level of the battery and make sure to clean ends of battery cables. Always connect the positive (+) cable first and then the negative. Coat the battery terminals and connectors with a protective sealant.
4. Turn the ignition to the RUN position to verify that the fuel gauge and voltmeter are operating properly.
5. Check all exterior lights and replace bulbs that have gone out.
FCCC provides additional tips and maintenance checklists for your personal use at: http://bit.ly/blyCpi. Also, for all RV enthusiasts and owners, check out Camp Freightliner, a comprehensive and captivating two-day training session to learn more about chassis maintenance and the benefits of driving a motorhome. Registration is now open and space is limited.
Questions? Let me know.
Julie Ma, CMD on behalf of FCCC
+++While these 'tips' relate specifically to the freightliner chassis, it's interesting to see a company offering this level of support to its customers.
Subject: A Teenie-Weenie Suggestion?
March 28, 2010
Hi Tom,
IMHO the "RVers Bulletin Board" is not given its proper ordinal on the home page. It would be handy to suggest a "Start Here For The Latest News" with corresponding link to the bulletin board and then move the status of the bulletin board to the top of the links list. I have had to discipline myself to route my site activties starting at the bulletin board, and should it not be made more intuitive?
+++Sounds like a good idea at this end. Moreover, we welcome reader input on ways we can make our site as responsive as possible to those that frequesnt these pages.
Subject: Ceiling stain
March 24, 2010
I had a minor leak around the skylight in my bathroom, which I successfully repaired.
Do any of your readers know of a method of cleaning the resultant wood stain on the 'fuzzy' ceiling material ?
Thanks,
Subject: RVer's Mailbox submission
March 23, 2010
Hello there.
I just had a question for you RVer's out there. My boyfriend and I have been discussing moving on to the RV lifestyle in the next few years. We figure we will probably be needing to work on the road and I have done extensive research on what's out there. There does appear to be alot available but I'm curious if we could use the skills we already have. My boyfriend is an experienced, and excellent mechanic. He can work on all types of vehicle. I imagine these skills would be useful on the road and in the RV parks. I am a computer support specialist. I know that many RVers these days are using technology like never before so it could be useful. So as an RVer, would you find a mechanic and a computer support specialist useful on your travels?
Thanks.
Sarah from Colorado.
+++Unquestionably those are skills much prized by RVers. Seems as if the most important challenge would be to "market" the services in a viable way...
Subject: A dealer you can trust
March 19, 2010
Hi Tom.
My wife and I are researching RV’s and came across your site. It’s a terrific resource. Thanks for doing it. We live in Portland, Oregon, and are interested in Class B vehicles. Having read one of your items we will probably buy a used one.
Do you or any of your readers have any dealer recommendations?
Kevin Cosgrove
+++We'd recommend you focus as well on a specific sales professional. In addition, if any of our readers have a recommendation on a Class B manufacturer, no doubt Kevin would appreciate hearing on that score as well.
Subject: RVers From Oregon
March 19, 2010
Hello from Salem Oregon. (see your in Florence).
I just found your site and have a question. We have a 5th wheel with an on board onan LP 55k Generator, a 300 pure sine wave inverter and a WFCO 3 stage 75 watt converter/charger. (also two 6 volt batteries). When we dry camp, we use the inverter to watch satellite TV, or a movie. Here in Oregon, we have to use the furnace often as well, it's cold here.
The furnace draws our batteries down fast. We run our onan in the morning to make coffee and charge the batteries up. Then again in the evening we have to turn on the genny to recharge them if we used the furnace a lot. The Onan Genny and heater uses a lot of propane. A LOT!
I called WFCO (maker of my converter/charger and asked them if this could be done with out harming the converter and they said... "Um, we are not sure". Here is my question (if you don't mind, and have a reply or a better choice for me". I want to buy a small 800 watt genny. (gas not LP) I want to plug it in directly to my converter, not the main plug that powers everything.. just the converter. My converter, then charges my batteries, and I use my inverter to watch TV. I read you can go that on your site here, but I wanted to ask if plugging it in directly is not a good idea..
Thanks,
+++We recognized this as beyond our competence for comment, so sent it along to David Eidell for his assessment. In turn he replied to Paul as follows: "Tom Gonser, forwarded your email to me and I love to address issues such as yours.
My long, cheapskate-based experience with RV heating taught me that a catalytic heater such as the OLYMPIAN uses significantly less LPG than a furnace and that a simple twelve volt fan (look for something that uses 3.0 amps or less) will circulate enouh air throughout your rig to dramatically reduce the number of cycles per night that your regular furnace will have to perform to keep you comfortable --- perhaps down to two or three depending on the temperature, and then the catalytic heater will greatly assist the RV heater and allow it to shut off much sooner. One thing however, is to do an examination of your rig to find out if it's design requires "basement heating" to prevent very cold weather freeze-ups. If the answer is yes, basement heating is needed then the following information isn't going to do you much good but I'll continue on in the hope that someone else would find such information useful.
Catalyst heaters need a minimum free amount of space overhead, in front, and to the sides. Check this out and decide exactly where the new heater would be best situated. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations, exactly for your own safety. You're goint to need to feed such a critter propane gas and the gas is going to need a gas line. Be sure to put LPG approved shut off valves in line with the new heater.
If your rig does not already have one, shop around in the internet for a Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm and install between the heater and your bedroom. The Olympian produces a quite tiny amount of CO and I used them for many, many years and have traded stories with many fellow travelers who have done the same with no ill effects or incidents. This is a safe unit all around. They are durable and easy to use.
I also decided at some point in the past that keep the tomato soup in the cupboard warm was not very practical, so I allowed interior heating to drop into the low to mid sixties before the heater fired off. Check with an electric blanket manufacturer but a -pure sine wave- inverter can power these things safely. NOTE: Don't try using an electric blanket with a -modified sine wave- inverter the blanket's thermostatic control will fail almost immediately.
Also you might want to re-check your terminology that you used to described your battery charger performance. Should it not read 75 "amps" instead of 75 watts?"
Subject: Car Break-in Alert
March 19, 2010
[NOTE: The following is an item received by and passed along from Leo Everitt as a heads up:]
I drove myself and two co-workers to lunch Monday, 2/15/10. I chose a parking spot in the rear of the lot and backed into a space (no pull through available at location). This positioned my Chevy Avalanche with the passenger side doors facing away from the rest of the lot and to the end of the lot. I had a Sony digital camera lying on the console of my truck.. Upon returning from lunch and entering the vehicle we noticed nothing wrong or missing from the vehicle.
Tuesday around lunch time I needed the camera and could not locate it. My first thoughts were, "I moved it or it fell to the floor mat or I removed it from my truck." After searching feverishly for two days, questioning anyone who had been close to my truck, and exhausting every possible location I could have put it, I began to have that sinking feeling I lost it or someone stole it. My new Garmin GPS had been in the truck the whole time, so I felt as if someone had entered my vehicle they would have taken it also.
Fast forward to Wednesday, I approached my truck from the passenger side to place my computer bag (aka my man purse) in the front passenger seat. As I reached to open the door I noticed there was a hole right under my door handle. My first thought was, "someone has shot my truck!" I began to think about it and inspect it a little closer and the "light" slowly began to come on. I phoned my friend who owns a body shop and asked if he had any vehicles with damage to the doors that looked like a bullet hole. "Yes, I see it all the time. Thieves have a punch and place it right under the door handle, knock a hole through, reach in and unlock it, just as if they have a key. No alarms, broken glass or anything."
I then placed a call to my insurance agent, who is also a friend, and explained it to him. I proceeded to tell him the situation and how I was puzzled that they left my GPS and all other belongings. Here is where it gets scary! "Oh no, he said, they want the break-in to be so subtle that you don't even realize it. They look at your GPS to see where "home" is. Now they know what you drive, go to your home, and if your vehicle isn't there they assume you aren't and break in your home." He says they will even leave a purse or wallet and only take one or two credit cards. By the time you realize there has been a theft, they may have already had a couple days or more to use them. This is another reason they want the break-in to go unnoticed. I didn't realize my situation for two full days! They even give you the courtesy of re-locking your doors for you. I guess they don't want it to be broken into by other thieves!
Had they found your check book, they could have taken checks from the middle section so they wouldn't be noticed.
Please remove from your GPS unit your home address as "home" ASAP! Put in your local Wal-Mart address or somewhere else! Park your vehicle in a highly visible place. I positioned mine perfectly for them and didn't realize it until it was too late. I hope this is beneficial to you and helps you keep your valuables in your possession and your vehicle from damage. Most importantly, it may keep the thieves from showing up at your home!
+++Interesting -- and thanks for passing this along.
Subject: TV by laptop?
March 16, 2010
Does anyone have experience getting DirecTV live on their laptop? Is it possible while full timing? If I could "dump" the TV it would save solar power!
Subject: RV Repairs In Mexico
March 15, 2010
I will be needing a new roof for my 93 Pace Arrow…32 footer. Because labor is much less in Mexico I was thinking of taking it there to get the new roof. My first question is this. Does anyone know of a good, honest repart shop that deals with RV’s. My second question is…is this a bad idea.
+++Seems as if the answer to the second question might be more critical than to the first...
Subject: REPORT 03/09/10 Mexico Pacific Coast Highway Lazaro Cardenas to Barra de Navidad
March 9, 2010
Hi Tom,
Just returned from a four-day "holiday" in Barra de Navidad, and perhaps my "fro and to" road report will be of some use for RV'ers plying their way northward from points south. For those readers not familiar with the names, the report covers Mexico highway 200, all the way through the states of Michoacan, Colima and then a bit into Jalisco.
Hopefully to make a bit more sense than a lengthy milepost report a "most significant" to "least significant" approach to subject matter may be appreciated better by readers.
Saludos de Michoacan Mexico,
Subject: Question?
March 3, 2010
Is the red pictographs in Mohave County in AZ somewhere? I have been searching for 3-4 life like figures that are in the Chemehuevi Flats area - but have not found them.
http://www.rversonline.org/PixJack.jpg
Bill
+++Bill, this is one of the most interesting questions we've had since starting this site. I'm not sure how you were able to search for this type of picture and then attempt to trace its location -- but that aside, this is actually a photo we took while on a guided tour at Seminole State Park in Texas. A full description of the location and what we discovered there is in one of the archives of Stephanie's Postcards. You'll need to scroll down that document to find the one that's dated March 12, 2007. Again, your inquiry is most interesting on a number of levels. Good luck!
Subject: Q on RVs and seat belts
March 1, 2010
We have a 29 foot class C RV. The driver and the front passenger are the only ones with a shoulder belt. The couch seat has 2 lap belts, and one of the two table benches has 2 lap belts. Texas just passed a law last year that made it a requirement for all children under 8yrs. old must be in a booster seat. Didn't know what laws applied to RVs. There was one site I looked at where the vehicle is exempt if it's over 15K pounds. Our RV won't make that weight I don't think.
We take our 2 children out with only the lap belts. They are ages 11 and 6. We will be going on a trip with friends of ours in a couple weeks. They have 4 children - aged 9 mos., 5 yrs., 7 yrs., and 11 yrs. The 9 mos. old and the 5 yr. old are in seats that would require only a lap belt seat belt with their children safety seats. Just wondered over all about the booster requirement, shoulder belt requirements, etc.
Thanks much for your help,
Tepe Hamilton, McKinney, TX
Subject: VW camper
March 1, 2010
A while back there was a RVer who bought volks wagon camper and fixed it all up do you know their website..
+++We've not seen anything on that, but perhaps someone else might have...
Subject: Short Stories for RVers
February 28, 2010
Dear Tom and Stephanie,
My husband and I are "newbie" full-time RVers experiencing that odd mixture of exhileration and frustration everyone who's ventured into this lifestyle have felt.
It's a combination only a fiction writer could love! I found myself writing fiction again after several years (my novel was published in 1996 by Baskerville Publishers) -- stories inspired by our experiences on the road.
I just spent the full overtime period of the USA/Canada Gold Medal Hockey Game absorbed by clicking around in the www.rversonline.org Web site and am glad to have found a place where so much current information is being shared!
With so little RV-related fiction available online, I'm wondering if you might be interested in posting one of my short stories (free, of course). I'd be interested to find out if the new series of short stories I've been writing can find an audience and in a format I designed with the RVer in mind.
I believe these sorts of books -- even more visually interesting and easy to read than the text-only books for readers such as Kindle and Nook -- are ideal for the RV lifestyle.
Congratulations on a Web site that's clearly of great interest and help to many people! I look forward to hearing from you about adding a possible fiction page or story.
Thank you both!
Ellen Behrens
+++Hi Ellen....while we're not able to post commecial items here, the fact that you're doing this may be of interest to other RVers who can contact you directly.
From: billstrack <>
Subject: Black water dunp valve
Date: February 23, 2010
Am experiencing difficulty in fully/completely "closing" the black water dump valve. By really working at it I can shut things off but its not real handy. I expect there has been an accumulation of debris in it. Short of dropping the "pan" and getting into where the valve is and then the disassembly of it to replace said valve does anyone have a recommendation. I wondered if there might be a product on the market that when dumped in the tank would help dissolve toilet tissue at least from the tank side if allowed to stand undesturbed for a few days. I'm thinking something along the line of "Liquid Plumber" for example. We are currently "wintering" in the camper and several days from home where a person could tear things apart. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks,
+++Perhaps someone has a bit of expertise to lend here. I promise we do not!