tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75320011156117482592024-03-12T21:09:54.050-07:00Wellington RVStories from Patrick Spike, a full time RV'er, and his two pugs. Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-26586514697227518522015-06-29T16:15:00.002-07:002015-06-29T16:15:29.194-07:00How to Exercise your RVSo you have an RV. It has some combination of heater/furnace, air conditioning, generator, engine, transmission. Those system are used in different combinations, different times of the year, or sometimes not at all depending on your RV use. But no matter what, you want to make sure those systems stay in good working order even when not being used regularly.<br />
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To keep these systems humming along and ready to work when you need them, you should maintain them with regular exercise, and with standard maintenance. <br />
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<b>Exercise your RV? </b><br />
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Yep, think about it. If you have a motor home and it's parked most of the time, the engine, its oil, its fuel, they're just sitting there idle, potentially breaking down over time. If you have a generator but typically are connected to "shore power", it's not being used. Same as above... it has fuel and oil contained inside that needs to be regularly burned, moved, and used so it stays in good working order. Your propane furnace, your hot water heater, your air conditioning units... they all need to be exercised periodically to maintain their seals and systems. <br />
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So a simple thing to do is mark your calendar for the 1st of every month as RV maintenance day! Start up your engine. Start up your generator. Run your furnace. Run your hot water. Run your AC... let them all run 30 - 60 minutes (60 recommended for gas/diesel systems to flush old fuel out of the lines). This will help things stay lubricated, flushed and working well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eTmq8L1645bsH-05BHOOMqSdCvZR01GOyp1sZk7axLlj5PUZr7PYVaJGJ0f6jhKdloY8q6hBokMRfSslkJkSPslYw7jlWpNhUEW1wbBXgPLqiOg58Vlzn0RWhB-DM5LfYb7x4K2CNSNV/s1600/service1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eTmq8L1645bsH-05BHOOMqSdCvZR01GOyp1sZk7axLlj5PUZr7PYVaJGJ0f6jhKdloY8q6hBokMRfSslkJkSPslYw7jlWpNhUEW1wbBXgPLqiOg58Vlzn0RWhB-DM5LfYb7x4K2CNSNV/s320/service1.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Maintain your systems</b><br />
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The other thing of course is to have things regularly maintained by an expert. Camping World offers a yearly preventative maintenance package, but other RV shops likely have something similar they can recommend. Check all vital systems, seals, change the oil on engines, clean/replace filters and more. Check the roof status and seals, the slide-outs... Having this type of service done once a year should keep you putting right down the road, or enjoying your rolling home all year long! Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-67460294856585317242015-06-25T16:09:00.002-07:002015-06-25T16:09:37.943-07:00Beating the Heat in an RVI was told, or maybe read, when I first considered RV living, that one of the things that can be a constant battle, is <b>HEAT</b>. No problem in the cooler months, but when it's warm outside, its generally HOT inside. <br />
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Thankfully most modern RV's have air conditioning units on top to help keep things comfortable inside, but they do take quite a bit of power to run, require 110 power, so if you're not connected to shore power that means running your generator, and can be rather noisy. It's a somewhat soothing white noise hum and whoosh type of sound, but if you want to watch a movie at the same time... well you get the idea.<br />
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Some things can help with the heat to reduce how often or how much you need to run those units:<br />
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<b>1) Shade</b> - if possible, ask for a space at the rv park or campground that is shaded by trees. This helps a great deal, obviously.<br />
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<b>2) Awnings</b> - use your large awning to shade a large portion of one side of your rv. If you have window shades that can help enormously too. If you don't have window awnings, you can look into adding them. They run into the hundreds of dollars... but if you are in hot sunny conditions often, they can be very worth it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHS-NFwIgfZkG6e-iE-ymjd6JC_XGAyqk6hrEX9sYp688F46XLkU7NDXqEiv4ELYwgRq8n0Q5Y1Tk9u8dGW6seh7flryBFL_nhDJuQs3tPLwGUjEE8KhlAc5CKEFCY_Ds3CmpDI-a-kvRo/s1600/rvsunshadeswindowcover+c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHS-NFwIgfZkG6e-iE-ymjd6JC_XGAyqk6hrEX9sYp688F46XLkU7NDXqEiv4ELYwgRq8n0Q5Y1Tk9u8dGW6seh7flryBFL_nhDJuQs3tPLwGUjEE8KhlAc5CKEFCY_Ds3CmpDI-a-kvRo/s320/rvsunshadeswindowcover+c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>3) Window covers</b> - The front window of your RV (if a motor home), if hit by the sun, is like a giant greenhouse. Sure, you can use the curtains or shades your RV has on the inside, but the sun will still get in, and heat up the air between the window and the shades. So you still end up with an enormous amount of heat inside that your AC units then have to battle. Consider getting a sun blocking fabric shade that attaches outside the window with snaps. I got a do it yourself kit from wayfair.com that allowed me to cut it to size, add the attachment snaps with peal and stick tape all for about $60. I've also read that companies that make awnings for homes and businesses can make one for you to fit your RV for much cheaper than ones specifically designed for your model. It can be a life saver.<br />
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As for your other windows... the same as above holds true. Shading them from the direct sun, especially on the outside before the sun gets IN, will help keep the temp down. You can get fabric covers as mentioned above, but I've also gone to a home supply store such as Home Depot and bought rolled silver bubble insulation, cut it to measure and attached it to the side out to cover the windows with some spring clamps. Its very affordable and does the job well for those really hot periods.<br />
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<b>4) Maintain your roof and exterior paint</b> - Remember that your roof gets beat on by the sun all the time. It must be maintained. Keeping it clean, free of dirt, and protected with a UV protectant is a very good idea. The cleaner and better condition it is in, the most it can reflect heat generating sun. Same is true for your RV exterior. If it's clean and has a decent wax on the paint and/or decals, the better it can reflect the heat generating rays. <br />
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<b>5) Watch the external temp</b> - when the temp outside drops down below your inside temp, turn off the AC units, open the windows, door and vents and turn on those vent fans. It will push air out the top (heat) and pull in the cooler air from the inside. If your vents don't have those awesome Fantastic Fans, consider getting them! They really help not only with heat but also pulling out moisture from showers, dishes, cooking, etc. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBp66fkCtGfkJf3_U9B4Uw6eymS0IrPnniVb_QOcFAQ2amgv8qNb1hle9T4U0dGmxxXzBpPmIbZw3XhSpQc-40Ve0k4UccMJtwHrlj54czKuubQJHbQhF7EtGu1Tce8IUrvbGE3ZdtzCzW/s1600/maxresdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBp66fkCtGfkJf3_U9B4Uw6eymS0IrPnniVb_QOcFAQ2amgv8qNb1hle9T4U0dGmxxXzBpPmIbZw3XhSpQc-40Ve0k4UccMJtwHrlj54czKuubQJHbQhF7EtGu1Tce8IUrvbGE3ZdtzCzW/s320/maxresdefault.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>6) As a last heat beating weapon, remember evaporation </b>- Evaporation reduces the temperature of things but 10-20 degrees! If you really have a heat issue, you can consider spraying some water on the grounds around your rv. Spray some on the rv itself. Install a mister to your awning or get a portable standing unit. This can be a great help to enjoying the outside area in high temps too.<br />
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Enjoy the sun in your rv! And always remember... sunscreen. :) <br /><br /><br />
<br />Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-50393948891146663342015-03-19T13:53:00.004-07:002015-03-19T13:57:28.481-07:00Extended Warranty for your RV???When I purchased my used 2003 Fleetwood Pace Arrow rv for my new rolling home, I knew from research that things can and will go wrong. Just like any other home, there is the potential for systems to have problems. And an RV has LOTS of different systems:<br />
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The engine<br />
Transmission<br />
Electrical system (for the vehicle portion)<br />
Electrical system and batteries (for the house portion)<br />
Heater/Furnace (propane)<br />
Hot water heater<br />
Air conditioning units (2 on most rv's my size)<br />
Refrigerator (electric and propane functions)<br />
Rear and side cameras, wired to the screen of the dash stereo<br />
The roof and all its sealed edges<br />
Seals around the slide outs<br />
The slide out motors themselves<br />
and on and on and on.<br />
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All these can potentially have problems. Not every issue will be covered by an extended warranty, such as things considered regular maintenance or wear and tear, but most standard operations and functions will be. <br />
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My warranty was about $3200 for 3 years. This can be extended further at any time if I wish. I purchased it from the dealer and they were able to roll this into my financing so my monthly loan payment includes this amount. <br />
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Personal, I find great piece of mind in having this warranty on my coach... which is my HOME. Since buying the coach last may I've had recurring and ongoing issues with the brand new on-demand hot water unit I had the dealer install when I purchased it. (Repairs so far have been under my warranty, but they are now trying to work with the manufacturer to replace the entire unit under it's own 2 year warranty.) I've had 2 repairs to the heater/furnace unit. I've had to replace the seal around the bedroom slide. I've had the coach services for lube/oil/filter/coolant, etc. Not all of these fell under the warranty I purchased, but lots of it did. Even with a $200 per incident deductible, I'm very glad I've had it. In less than a year I've probably already recoup'd 1/3 of the warranty cost. I certainly wouldn't want something major happen that costs thousands of dollars and leave me without my home in a livable state. So I certainly recommend going for the warranty, especially when buying a used coach.<br />
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Note that there are warranties available for purchase on your own. Just google search for them. You can buy one at any time. <br />
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Also make sure you have adequate rv insurance as well in case of accident, etc. Make sure it covers the cost of your personal possessions. Make sure it will pay out full reimbursement for the cost of your coach (this is often an extra you have to ask for!). Make sure it includes towing! Towing a big coach like mine costs ALOT. You want that to be covered. There's no spare tire you can put on yourself on a coach like this. So towing coverage is a must! <br />
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Lastly, remember to BUDGET for maintenance and repairs. If you are considering full time rv'ing there WILL be expenses every year to maintain your rv properly, and there WILL be repairs. Even with a warranty some of those expenses fall to you. Be prepared!<br />
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Happy trails! Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-56178901303024157862015-03-17T18:00:00.003-07:002015-03-17T18:00:48.669-07:00Switched from Jeep Wrangler Unlimited to a Smart ForTwo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Being a full time RV'er in a class A motor home, I tow my car behind the RV when I travel. I've seen some RV'ers who travel with multiple people actually opt to not tow and have one of the people drive the other vehicle, or iv they need more than one vehicle when they are parked in the RV. I however live alone, and even if I didn't it's far more enjoyable to share the road, conversation and even the driving if you are a couple on the road. <br />
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<br />When I first sold my house and moved into my RV I had a beautiful "mango tango" colored 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited that I'd recently purchased. I read and heard that Jeeps are one of the easiest vehicles to rig and tow behind an RV so I figured I'd start out with that (I already had so many changes happening in my life, I didn't need that change right then as well). <br />
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So I had some friends help me mount a Blue Ox tow plate on the jeep. (Ugh, that was an all day install project, but saved alot of money doing it ourselves.) And I bought a Blue Ox tow bar to tow it behind my Pace Arrow. <br />
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I towed it behind the RV to the coast a few times, and all was fine. However I could definitely feel the difference having it behind my gas RV. At about 4600 pounds, it was near the 5000 pound weight limit for towing behind my 2003 Pace Arrow, and I could feel the drag and could practically hear the gas being sucked out of my tank.<br />
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I was so thrilled by the savings I was getting off owning my former house and all the required (utilities, insurance, taxes, etc) and optional (seasonal decorations, knick knacks, etc) expenses that I started looking at other ways to save. I couldn't ignore the car payment, insurance payment and gas required by the Jeep. At average of about 16 mpg, the jeep wrangler is most definitely a gas hog by today's standards. I started thinking about a smaller vehicle to tow behind my rv and that would save me on car payment, gas, and gas on the rv when towing. <br />
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I saw the Smart car when I was in Europe in 2005 and fell in love with them. So cute, compact, easy to drive and park, I started investigating them. I had seen them being towed and researched them to find that their unique automatic transmission that actually works somewhat like a manual shift allows this to be the case. <br />
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<b>NOTE</b> that not every car can be towed. To tow 4 down (all wheels on the ground while towing) the transmission must be able to be fully disengaged. Jeeps can do this via the 4wd shifter into neutral, but most of your average cars CANNOT be towed 4 down. So if you're considering this you must find out of the specific car/year/model that you are considering can be towed. <br />
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I found a 2008 Smart ForTwo for sale from the original owner with only 30k miles on it. He'd babied it, had died and his wife was selling it off. I really liked them and them me so it was a great match. I got it for a great price. Oh and also, it's a cabriolet, so at the push of a button the top rolls back to open up the sky. I LOVE it. It's fun to drive, can park just about anywhere, and sips gas. It's a fraction of the cost of the jeep so this greatly reduces my debt as well.<br />
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I knew already that Blue Ox had a tow plate for the Smart car, so I purchased one, had it installed along with the wiring harness so when RV brakes and turn signals are applied the lights on the car will appear as well. I had it all set to tow!<br />
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So now to sell the Jeep. I thought this would be relatively easy since Jeeps are so popular. The color of mine (beautiful burnt orange) was loved by everyone who saw it and not common on the road. Even maybe selling it to a fellow RV'er since it was already rigged for towing! Unfortunately this wasn't the case. I kept listing it on Craig's list, had signs on it and parked it at my local shopping area, etc. Then I didn't notice while sitting in the rain that the "freedom" top (3 piece hard top with removable sections) had developed a leak so the interior got very wet, developed a bit of mold, and I had to dry it out, clean all the mold with lysol and get the top sealing again. UGH. Weeks later I got it all clean and dry and decided to take it to a consignment lot for them to sell it. They felt confident they could sell it at an amount that they could then give me what I needed to pay off the loan and still make a profit themselves. Great! No dice. Months went by and no sale. So I finally picked it up, took it back to the dealer where I'd bought it and they offered me an amount that gave me ALMOST enough to pay off the loan. I kicked in the remaining $560 to pay off the loan, and I'm free of it. <br />
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Nice thing... I am able to cash in the extended warranty I'd purchased on it which still had about 3/4 remaining on it. So I should get about 1/2 or 2/3 of that purchase price back. That will help. Then I'll be saving about $250/mo in car payment, about $80/mo in car insurance, and I'll channel those amounts into a car maintenance budget line item to make sure I have enough stored away there for work or repairs that might be needed on the Smart, since I don't have an extended warranty on it. <br />
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<b>GOAL: </b>Saving money, reducing debt. By downsizing my vehicle, and buying a bit older car, but in like-new condition, I was able to reduce my debt overall by about $15000. I reduced my monthly expenses with car pmt, insurance and gas by about $400/month, plus the saved drag and fuel expense in towing it behind the RV. <br />
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<b>LESSON LEARNED:</b> Never assume a car will be easy to sell. Especially when it's on the newer side.<br />
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<b>TIP:</b> Make sure you OVER budget for car and RV repairs. Keep socking away money into these budget lines because you never know what might come up, and vehicles always need to be maintained and will eventually require repairs. Better to have the money waiting to be used, than have to put it on a credit card and service that debt after the fact. Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-67481960719093005722014-08-30T12:11:00.003-07:002014-08-30T12:13:12.890-07:00Newbie RV'er Lesson Learned #1: The Black TankOk, so this is my first time as an RV owner... yep. I sold my house and bought an RV and moved into it having nearly NO experience with RV's in the past. Uh huh... Bold choices is how I roll.<br />
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So, even though I did a ton of research and talked with other RV'ers and read blogs and all in preparation for this big change in my life, it's bound to happen that I'll learn some lessons the hard way.<br />
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Thankfully, the first newbie lesson I learned was not TOO bad, or costly, or horrible. But it could have been.<br />
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Let's talk THE BLACK TANK! For those of you not in the know, this is how they refer to the sewage tank in your rv. It's the tank where the toilet drains to and that you empty with a large flexible hose into a dump station or an rv/campground sewer trap drain.<br />
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For some reason, I assumed that while hooked up at a park to water, electric and sewer that I should just leave the grey and black tank valves open to drain anything that went into them. (Btw, the grey tank is the holding tank for the sinks and shower... non sewer things). This assumption would be a MISTAKE. While it is fine to leave the grey tank valve open to drain into the sewer trap constantly, the black tank is another story.<br />
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So here's the deal. The black tank receives, from your toilet, liquid and... um... solids. If you leave the tank open to drain, then the liquids will drain out and the solids likely will remain. The solids need time to break down and this takes both liquids AND usually some catalyst such as an enzyme or chemical. I'll mention below the one I've found that works GREAT for me. So if you don't allow this breakdown to happen, the solids will collect, and even pile up, and form a hard clay like consistency in the tank and eventually it will be clogged up and require some serious work to unclog or even tank replacement. RV'ers have coined this piling up "pyramiding". Descriptive huh? <br />
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So what I've learned:<br />
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<li>Keep the black tank CLOSED. I usually leave it closed for the week. Then on Saturday I close the grey tank to let grey water fill up some, then on Sunday I flush out the black tank then the grey tank so the grey water flushes out the hose. </li>
<li>After flushing out the black tank, fill the toilet boil twice with water and use a tank additive to break down the solids and keep the smell down. This starter liquid with the additive will keep things breaking down and working as they should.</li>
<li>Periodically it's a good idea to use a tank cleaner. Do this after emptying the tank and before you plan a trip somewhere so the movement of the RV will agitate the tank. You fill the tank about 1/2 full with water and use a commercial tank cleaner or even Simple Green (about 4 cups should do it).</li>
</ol>
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With these steps you should never have a problem!<br />
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Oh, I'm sure your curious how I learned this lesson...
Shortly after I got my RV I did as I described above, leaving the black
tank open, no additives, etc... It was a very short couple weeks before
the black tank was clogged. I had to have my buds at JohnsonRV unclog
it for me... Not TOO expensive, but a cost I don't care to repeat.
Thanks Johnson!!<br />
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Here's my recommendation for tank additive:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuiaytSmtTHss2t5CNAh44Z4R0Ohp2e2tzMoDwRPTN7jsaFmjtashKf01BBdtjerGneHBbY-gGk9SicAZ9ZaJBRhjtgj5pphAaTNr12BNg4JENxq7UGZYnUep9RxT3j57hlipM67JbXFpO/s1600/81ugtCug95L._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuiaytSmtTHss2t5CNAh44Z4R0Ohp2e2tzMoDwRPTN7jsaFmjtashKf01BBdtjerGneHBbY-gGk9SicAZ9ZaJBRhjtgj5pphAaTNr12BNg4JENxq7UGZYnUep9RxT3j57hlipM67JbXFpO/s1600/81ugtCug95L._SL1500_.jpg" height="320" width="311" /></a></div>
I use Happy Campers Organic RV Holding Tank Treatment. (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Happy-Campers-Organic-Holding-Treatment/dp/B007S0LDME/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409425305&sr=8-1&keywords=happy+camper+tank">http://www.amazon.com/Happy-Campers-Organic-Holding-Treatment/dp/B007S0LDME/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409425305&sr=8-1&keywords=happy+camper+tank</a>)<br />
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I love that this is an organic compound and it works GREAT. Also, with this you don't need to buy special expensive rv toilet paper. I just buy a septic safe toilet paper at Costco (much cheaper!) and it breaks down great.<br />
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BTW Happy Campers also makes an Extreme Cleaner tank and sensor cleaner. (Black tank sensors notoriously usually don't work, including mine, even after using this product.) <br />
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There you go! The ugly truth about black tanks and how to avoid nasty issues. Happy RV'ing! <br />
<br />Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-58344178857040140862014-07-05T09:44:00.002-07:002014-07-05T09:44:48.148-07:00Things I'm enjoying NOT doing as a full time RV'er<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1JDlHvp-rF5jnGaliiBw0U02yb0NbDbINNiVanDlYKLlhVtfxGUc3ofrNmvnm1Qh408Eze7gMhYWiYP8uvMYoPKYujtZHzqzhtkXUlYL1zcIUTHN6KY-16S9ap9ODYG8iNVd9W1qmh1Xy/s1600/rv-living-full-time-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1JDlHvp-rF5jnGaliiBw0U02yb0NbDbINNiVanDlYKLlhVtfxGUc3ofrNmvnm1Qh408Eze7gMhYWiYP8uvMYoPKYujtZHzqzhtkXUlYL1zcIUTHN6KY-16S9ap9ODYG8iNVd9W1qmh1Xy/s1600/rv-living-full-time-02.jpg" /></a></div>
Ah RV living... as I walked Max and Myko around the RV park this beautiful Saturday morning, here's some of the things I remembered that I'm NOT doing... <br />
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1) Weeding the flower beds<br />
2) Vacuuming and dusting 1250 square feet of house<br />
3) Cleaning 2 full bathrooms<br />
4) Paying sizable bills for garbage, water/sewer, natural gas, electricity, lawn maintenance, cable internet, alarm system (and related phone line and police registration)<br />
5) Paying on the loan for the new roof I had to put on the house<br />
6) Paying mortgages<br />
7) Paying property taxes<br />
8) Fence repairs <br />
9) Watching all my income go to bills<br />
10) Wishing I could travel more, but knowing I couldn't really afford it <br />
11) Comcast!<br />
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I'm sure there are more I'll remember later... For those of you who are also full time RV'ers, what are some other things you're enjoying NOT doing now? <br />
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<br />Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-14726782338979081692014-06-28T12:37:00.001-07:002014-06-28T12:37:12.982-07:00How to bath your dogs in an RV ?Well. Twice I've tried kneeling in front of my step-in shower putting a pug inside and soaping them up. Trouble is that they move around too much and I'm leaning over to reach them leaving me with a sore back, sore knees, a grumpy attitude and unhappy pugs. <div><br></div><div>Solution? The booster dog bath tub! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYL17mkPE3q7vpUlGi2F42S8XuS130EVJB9ubvqO74WNp0b1stEIYlnWFE_WTNDxLnbaIQza6ms0eIF724OJGHWNi_gI8N-eordezY3brYXZWhyphenhypheni-6rXyEPJ_3QMqGatWrG9ElxW9nsi8r/s640/blogger-image--907432491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYL17mkPE3q7vpUlGi2F42S8XuS130EVJB9ubvqO74WNp0b1stEIYlnWFE_WTNDxLnbaIQza6ms0eIF724OJGHWNi_gI8N-eordezY3brYXZWhyphenhypheni-6rXyEPJ_3QMqGatWrG9ElxW9nsi8r/s640/blogger-image--907432491.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Here's Myko modeling he and Max's new fashion forward, Jetsons-inspired, bathing apparatus. </div><div><br></div><div>It elevates them to standing height. Easy to move around them. Has three point leash attachment to keep them secure. A drain with hose so you can direct the run off. Even padded non skid floor and a shampoo holder! </div><div><br></div><div>My RV, like most, has an external hot and cold water faucet with hose and sprayer. So I can bath them outside or if weather is bad I think this would even fit inside my shower. </div><div><br></div><div>Legs detach and store inside and it fits easily in my RV storage compartment. </div><div><br></div><div>Brilliant!</div>Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com1Fairview Fairview45.545198 -122.441386tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-36215152404707719142014-06-23T18:05:00.001-07:002014-06-23T18:05:11.901-07:00Could full-time RV living be better for the environment?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhITLfT_CLmylx_CBx0d8XV1dhkNwFystLZcHrLY0VAT8VfJ-0GEURp0aTvdaJgL6Xff_bBdblUptjopPZQVbVzFA9YhuKMedvCMfuzruq8224XHQOY9ihMnSnmLB8jTA61yBnFaqeu9Iw5/s1600/Fulltime-RV-Living-660x330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhITLfT_CLmylx_CBx0d8XV1dhkNwFystLZcHrLY0VAT8VfJ-0GEURp0aTvdaJgL6Xff_bBdblUptjopPZQVbVzFA9YhuKMedvCMfuzruq8224XHQOY9ihMnSnmLB8jTA61yBnFaqeu9Iw5/s1600/Fulltime-RV-Living-660x330.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
So, I've been around a few RV parks, met and observed RV'ers, and gotten more into the groove with my own rhythm and fallen into a routine of living in my RV.<br />
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I seem to be noticing more about things related to resources and impact on the surroundings. <br />
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With the compact nature of this lifestyle, it becomes very obvious how much trash you're generating, and how much is being recycled versus thrown into trash.<br />
<br />Since you have to stay aware of your black tank (sewage) and it's generally a good idea to use the grey water tank to flush things out as you empty the black tank, it makes you aware of how much water you're going through as well. <br />
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The furnace and hot water system use liquid propane which I monitor and have refilled as needed. So again this keeps me keenly aware of my usage of these resources, and I'm heating a far smaller space than my former home, and my hot water is on demand. It is heated only when I use hot water. <br />
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Walking the dogs a few times a day and seeing others out walking their dogs, cleaning up after them, being respectful of other RV'ers in the camp ground or RV park... General awareness of your neighbors and the camaraderie that comes with it. <br />
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All of these details seem to just bring me, at least, more in tune with my impact on the environment, on the park or campground, on my neighbors. So far everyone seems very respectful and friendly. Waving from their car, saying hello walking around. It's a great feeling and a lifestyle I'm really loving.<br />
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Now I'm sure some are thinking about the fuel an RV consumes, but if you think about it my 2003 RV only came to me with 26k miles on it. That's far less miles and therefore consumption than a car on the road. That's also instead of me living in a brick&mortar home with water run off, gas and electric and other carbon footprint items. <br />
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Just something that I've been thinking about... <br />
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Check out this related article: http://www.campingroadtrip.com/outdoor-living-newsletter-january-2010/campgrounds-and-rv-parks-are-going-greenSpikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-63899676810329292002014-06-22T23:30:00.001-07:002014-06-22T23:30:30.049-07:00Replacing the old box tv in my RV with a 39" led - cabinet conversionIt took most of a day but here's how it was done.<div><br></div><div>Removed the old box tv by taking off the front bezel, removing wood stays and lifting (ugh) out the tv. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPIp9bphWz_rPktCi6CgCK_OfbaNLyCVbRm67zDHD4Jptmpc5ZgdDuw9RfGG9OAXZb41ni_hhCObkK_emVeMv-nFMetsyRxhoMAB8eDL2xAi9oUQHBf-PXQkZ9cGR_qaWe-Z-O5jJ8Tsl8/s640/blogger-image--876242597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPIp9bphWz_rPktCi6CgCK_OfbaNLyCVbRm67zDHD4Jptmpc5ZgdDuw9RfGG9OAXZb41ni_hhCObkK_emVeMv-nFMetsyRxhoMAB8eDL2xAi9oUQHBf-PXQkZ9cGR_qaWe-Z-O5jJ8Tsl8/s640/blogger-image--876242597.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDfvuJoQGVNwEfTZrfpP9lkr32r8ENATbke4r_MXI-DKvA7pbUPR0K43OtLDvGGZOcLZB42wpskk3-1usqJo7Iqjk_3e_t7xydXgMLS2U6blSSeewn4GE3Uq5cWEKdXn8ql-2Crsx3sUd/s640/blogger-image-2145296738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDfvuJoQGVNwEfTZrfpP9lkr32r8ENATbke4r_MXI-DKvA7pbUPR0K43OtLDvGGZOcLZB42wpskk3-1usqJo7Iqjk_3e_t7xydXgMLS2U6blSSeewn4GE3Uq5cWEKdXn8ql-2Crsx3sUd/s640/blogger-image-2145296738.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Had a piece of plywood cut to fit on back side of the bezel and reattach the bezel with hinges and safety hooks snout can open for cable access and even some storage behind. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-WkeCccalw97AKPAw6963k3h3xaAYxl_oIZC3fxkoAUsnvcC46l58ElUELCgULMhzg453uc7-G-Dd9Aun_o4j0MG2S4m0IQj9RfAu-8X86VvbYfEDbI9Yzcr0O3plkHaD9Z_3Gjiuc5l/s640/blogger-image--866003391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-WkeCccalw97AKPAw6963k3h3xaAYxl_oIZC3fxkoAUsnvcC46l58ElUELCgULMhzg453uc7-G-Dd9Aun_o4j0MG2S4m0IQj9RfAu-8X86VvbYfEDbI9Yzcr0O3plkHaD9Z_3Gjiuc5l/s640/blogger-image--866003391.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDXfjNNC_RaSH88PaTCb6fhGADcyl8IKvEn04wGarhSDte5OgWZyA-mpc62C8RY-hm7pOoG1_dsHMU3-Db95xR2u0fBz3qFkjZqceBPrnPifq-BvYkMl-YLtkSzGCglJs4rAGNGeVjrbr/s640/blogger-image--1080615528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDXfjNNC_RaSH88PaTCb6fhGADcyl8IKvEn04wGarhSDte5OgWZyA-mpc62C8RY-hm7pOoG1_dsHMU3-Db95xR2u0fBz3qFkjZqceBPrnPifq-BvYkMl-YLtkSzGCglJs4rAGNGeVjrbr/s640/blogger-image--1080615528.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvgdpT7L7pU-R16w_Ejm6FB0t_ad1WekakhZsjb5Z0ZNK6sJF6OFYjrYUOR7u1l7vOqN_-gzGhZZzu_Yr7IPn_nq3B5imOfUT4SgLU3qnOkHXcQWTbSPqHeRX2Kj60_u6PEQ7WjKKtKlf/s640/blogger-image--629574877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvgdpT7L7pU-R16w_Ejm6FB0t_ad1WekakhZsjb5Z0ZNK6sJF6OFYjrYUOR7u1l7vOqN_-gzGhZZzu_Yr7IPn_nq3B5imOfUT4SgLU3qnOkHXcQWTbSPqHeRX2Kj60_u6PEQ7WjKKtKlf/s640/blogger-image--629574877.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Purchase and attach a tv wall mount arm son the tv can be swung out to access the component cabinets behind. When on the road I'll probably need to bungy the tv to help keeping it stationary and not bouncing too much. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4o41C36BO6ugH3AFcKDKqL1n3WD7xcVzQH_u7NGzc6wPnZ0Xt6JE7kLWdjtWiy6OxcLr-A5kdg50i9spb3xqdKcmcwhUVEDxp5H-V1_PfvuHQ0DJ1cOicotCzbdG7xK3wcoh-viAw_xTU/s640/blogger-image-2024185451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4o41C36BO6ugH3AFcKDKqL1n3WD7xcVzQH_u7NGzc6wPnZ0Xt6JE7kLWdjtWiy6OxcLr-A5kdg50i9spb3xqdKcmcwhUVEDxp5H-V1_PfvuHQ0DJ1cOicotCzbdG7xK3wcoh-viAw_xTU/s640/blogger-image-2024185451.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Wire the existing surround speakers to the new Yamaha receiver and attach components such as blue ray. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikyEhlZl2Fjqz8Y6uMlIqj_C_9hSEzCUKq4w6VqtyWy8GwIZO-82aG_k_B8q5E6mjJd5J-Gp-VAejiK5ZSk_4lmOCS6wua-_OT7Ld9YmJ0x71EWXChol0Ud0OAR7REY0AzBVI7JOEHeIsO/s640/blogger-image--1398496062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikyEhlZl2Fjqz8Y6uMlIqj_C_9hSEzCUKq4w6VqtyWy8GwIZO-82aG_k_B8q5E6mjJd5J-Gp-VAejiK5ZSk_4lmOCS6wua-_OT7Ld9YmJ0x71EWXChol0Ud0OAR7REY0AzBVI7JOEHeIsO/s640/blogger-image--1398496062.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Power it all up! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxT0tCmX7YlTi8VSauTzwwOLpMuLk_KKxJhjFi2VN-OsFz95ElCh9OjeHR8tS7L_W7USJKYwrIGZl_laW6RHfhqT8fk6yn95R-nBLgjFBdmafidQbt_Bt9Uz-4Z6FKy-HTlQ1v7EgtUfY/s640/blogger-image-1367440978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxT0tCmX7YlTi8VSauTzwwOLpMuLk_KKxJhjFi2VN-OsFz95ElCh9OjeHR8tS7L_W7USJKYwrIGZl_laW6RHfhqT8fk6yn95R-nBLgjFBdmafidQbt_Bt9Uz-4Z6FKy-HTlQ1v7EgtUfY/s640/blogger-image-1367440978.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>HUGE <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">thanks to Marty who helped me all day today on this. Hugs!!</span></div>Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-82229837105556611552014-06-21T22:04:00.001-07:002014-06-21T22:04:21.136-07:00Old box tv out!<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">The boat anchor of a big ole box tv is OUT! Nearly 100 pounds of av antiquity is out beside the RV along with the smaller brother from the bedroom.</p><p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0moSfwWNEThIgcz0EcTMkCX_pB7frUavrEZH9FvG5vN2pvha-_ON_4FriT5q8SsLQL0mWJ2HWl51JayVf_N3AjmH7mmJxzmpsDqKQFb8CZtvZ1FBGXyNUJ2tkVHbeXs6UAh9bLVyZ4SfR/s640/blogger-image-357626167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0moSfwWNEThIgcz0EcTMkCX_pB7frUavrEZH9FvG5vN2pvha-_ON_4FriT5q8SsLQL0mWJ2HWl51JayVf_N3AjmH7mmJxzmpsDqKQFb8CZtvZ1FBGXyNUJ2tkVHbeXs6UAh9bLVyZ4SfR/s640/blogger-image-357626167.jpg"></a></div><p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;"><br></p><p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-family: Helvetica;">Now I'm going to insert a piece of plywood with a hinge and bolt that I can attach the new LG 39" led tv to and then will hook it all up with a new Yamaha receiver and my other components and the surround speakers and Wellington will ROCK! More to come. </p>Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-41757171421953893072014-06-21T12:02:00.000-07:002014-06-21T12:02:15.500-07:00How I decided on a Class A Motor home with gas motor for my full time RV livingSo there's a number of types of recreational vehicles out there, from motorhomes to trailers and different types in each group. Class A, B, C, fifth wheel... It can be a bit confusing.<br />
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<b>CLASSES / TYPES</b><br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeaf7rNkqnUJo6zsyn1OZ5Jf6eu6hGdudPKhEjlK1pYQEAFSl-24LhAiMW6WitsIgj8RP5SIXst2-jnvMci_wN-LYKmBJFkIi8lq1wEdRxbyP27T30KGWWyN9TzmlAIAbp7bHR3PQmmBLB/s1600/RVTypes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeaf7rNkqnUJo6zsyn1OZ5Jf6eu6hGdudPKhEjlK1pYQEAFSl-24LhAiMW6WitsIgj8RP5SIXst2-jnvMci_wN-LYKmBJFkIi8lq1wEdRxbyP27T30KGWWyN9TzmlAIAbp7bHR3PQmmBLB/s1600/RVTypes.JPG" height="204" width="320" /></a></div>
In the Motor homes there's class A, B, and C. Class A is what you see on the road roughly resembling a bus. This is the type I finally landed on. Class B is what you see that looks like it's built on a passenger or cargo van type body. Class C is larger, but still with the cab of what might be a van. <br />
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Trailers, or towables, range from a travel trailer to a toy hauler that folds open with a rear "garage" for atv's or motorcycles, popup trailers of different sorts - half trailer, half tent, and 5th-wheel trailers which are the largest and require a special hitch in the back of a truck. <br />
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<b>MY CONSIDERATIONS</b><br /><br />
I originally was leaning toward a 5th wheel trailer. I'd seen many of them at rv shows and was very impressed with all the space and storage in them. Many have slide outs on both sides of the living space which can quite literally make it feel like a very large living room. Some had full kitchens with a wrap around bar and more. One I saw had a "forward living" design where instead of the bedroom being in the upper area, the living room was there with 2 couches, a recliner, a fireplace with tv above, and the sleeping area was in the back. So they are very versatile and spacious.<br />
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The downside of a 5th wheel, or even a large trailer, is that you have to have a pretty beefy truck to pull it. The bigger the 5th wheel (and I would have wanted pretty large to live in full time) the bigger the truck needed. Now I plan to be stationary in the Portland area a good portion of the year, and even when traveling I'll likely be in one place a few weeks here, a couple weeks there, or more. So during the time the trailer was parked, I'd have to drive that big truck around as my daily vehicle. <br />
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I also spoke with my friends Bobby and Darrell (Hi guys!) who have been full-time rv'ers for going on 4 years now and the informed me too that the setup when you reach your destination is more time consuming and involved. Additionally, passengers including my pugs, could not ride in the trailer when in motion. If you have a guest with you, they can grab a beverage a snack, etc (carefully) on the road. Not so when it's a trailer of any sort. <br />
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So with those details in mind, I shifted my search back to a Class A motor home. With a class A everything is self contained and it's very easy to arrive, park, level, extend the slide outs, hook up to the park water, power, etc, and you're done. <br />
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<b>GAS VS DIESEL</b><br /> <br />
Then, I had to consider a gas or diesel model. This is a considerable piece of the puzzle. It seems that most people would tell you that diesel is better. They often get better MPG, I believe I've been told that the motors likely are more durable and longer lasting, and you'll usually hear that they have more power for climbing hills, for towing, etc. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6sbbKak5_XZnKDnsDExT6Ha1UBdut0N38lPjuvbERLrzWz3wbLR_Mojky4KIBzgrWnouAitiWyWhCXT4jFaq1YR4xRDVc43Mm-V2Vmh98Ka6yOsOBOWS5uWOEmQgS0kJ_Xy7y1kKeO8aF/s1600/20140412_140455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6sbbKak5_XZnKDnsDExT6Ha1UBdut0N38lPjuvbERLrzWz3wbLR_Mojky4KIBzgrWnouAitiWyWhCXT4jFaq1YR4xRDVc43Mm-V2Vmh98Ka6yOsOBOWS5uWOEmQgS0kJ_Xy7y1kKeO8aF/s1600/20140412_140455.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wellington RV! A 2003 Fleetwood Pace Arrow <br />with GM 8100 gas motor, Workhorse Chassis, Allison Transmission</td></tr>
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What I also discovered though is that they are more expensive in MANY ways... in the used rv market diesel typically meant 10-30k more expensive. Service on a diesel coach is much higher, as you can't take it into a typical auto repair shop, and the service is much more specialized. My gas coach is a GM engine and chassis. So the motor can be serviced in many standard auto shops. Even the tires are more expensive, since tires on a diesel coach are HUGE. They are often larger than tires found on a semi truck. Since that means they are a low demand item to stock, they can often run upwards of $800 EACH. Tires on a gas coach are smaller, are frequently used on other types of trucks, and therefore are more common and easier on the wallet. For all these reasons I started researching gas options and found that the specific motor/chassis/transmission (allison) combination of my coach (Fleetwood Pace Arrow 2003) had great customer ratings and mentions on blogs and websites. Owners talked about how it had plenty of power, often passing by diesel coaches on an incline. And so far, I've been very pleased with my gas coach. Even the mileage is comparable to what many say is normal for a diesel. <br />
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<b>TOWING</b><br /> <br />
Also, with a class A I can tow my jeep wrangler unlimited behind the RV from place to place. With the addition of a tow bar on the jeep, a tow bar, and some lighting wires installed, I can quickly hook up my jeep to the back of the RV and tow it down the road. It's easy to disconnect when I arrive and then I have my beautiful Mango (name of my jeep) with me to drive around wherever I happen to be.<br />
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It happens that Jeep Wranglers are one of the easiest vehicles to modify and tow 4-down (all wheels on the ground) of the limited number of cars that can be towed this way. And since the transmission is completely disengaged when towing, no miles are added to the odometer while towing it. <br />
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<b>FINALLY</b><br /><br />
So all of these considerations have to be weighed if you're considering an RV for part time or full time use. In the RV parks I see probably a near equal number of Class A and 5th Wheel types, and then a lower number of trailers. Of course I don't know how many of of them are full-timers. And within each class there's many near standards of floorplan pieces, but also many many creative and unique layouts suited for different needs. It's a good idea if you're considering an RV to try to visit a good RV show, to see how things vary and get a sense of options. If you're looking for a used RV, check out a number of different dealerships to see what might be available and in your price range. Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-42178755748424936612014-06-19T12:35:00.000-07:002014-06-19T12:35:07.443-07:00RV Departing checklistSo today I am up at JohnsonRV in Sandy Oregon, the dealership where I purchased Wellington, having a few small things fixed... hopefully under my extended warranty. Last night and the morning I went through the process of prepping the RV to roll, which involves many many details. <br />
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I thought I'd share my pre-departure checklist. Here goes!<br />
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<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><u><b>inside</b></u></span><br />
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<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><b><i>bedroom</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- put all things away in cupboards </span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- use black storage bin to assemble all small items from counters and rest on bed</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- rest fan and radio and other items on bed</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- lay down vacuum beside bed</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- make sure the bifold door and slider are latched in place</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><b><i>bathroom</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- stow all things in cupboards</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- use black storage bin for any counter top loose items and rest on bed</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- secure hanging things in the shower, close shower door and apply the door catch</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- make sure the pocket sliding door is secured with catch on the floor</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- make sure all items in toilet room are secured and door latched</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- move scale so it doesn’t talk at me on the road!</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><b><i>kitchen</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- wash dishes and put away</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- cover the stove with panels</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- put all counter top loose items in sink</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- make sure all cupboards are secure</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- empty keurig water tank, secure table items</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- move garbage and recycle bins to under table</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- move dog bows etc so out of way of slider</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- bring in outside thermometer</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><b><i>sliders </i></b></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- make sure nothing blocking the bed or living room sliders - slide them in</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- bring down the hanging decor with bell</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><b><i>windows</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- make sure all blinds are up for visibility and so they don’t rattle</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- leave windows open for ventilation if needed</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- turn off ceiling fans and interior lights to not drain batteries</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Make sure tv antenna is down</span><br />
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<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><u><b>outside</b></u></span><br />
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<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Lower leveling jacks</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Remove leveling blocks</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Remove wheel chocks</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Empty black and grey tanks - add chemicals and water so they can rinse while driving</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">disconnect rinse and stow hoses and cables</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">make sure all storage compartments are closed and locked</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><b><i>Prep jeep to tow, if towing</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- uncover tow bar, connect to jeep</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- connect light power cable to jeep</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- connect safety cables</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- install Patriot Brake and test/activate in jeep</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">- disengage transmission in jeep</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Test brake and turn signal lights on coach and jeep</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">bring in all exterior items - bbq, lights, rugs, chairs, plastic step, metal step support, etc and stow them</span><br />
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<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"><u><b>Final</b></u></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Get any beverages or snacks needed for the first leg of travel</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">make sure glasses and sunglasses are at the dash</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Get phone in place with charging cable. Look up map route if needed. </span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Program music for the road</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Make sure leveling jacks are up, step is in, emergency brake is off.</span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Check fuel level - get gas if needed </span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">When ready to go, ease forward to extend the tow bar arms into locked position. Check to verify they are locked. </span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font: 13.0px Arial;">Rock & Roll!</span>
Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-69785756069175961672014-06-17T15:23:00.003-07:002014-06-17T15:23:50.500-07:00Wellington RV Interior Walk ThroughSo everyone's been wanting inside view of my rolling home, Wellington, the 2003 Fleetwood Pace Arrow. So here it is? Not spotless, but nonetheless...<br />
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<br />Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-39691507185538643842014-06-17T14:16:00.001-07:002014-06-17T14:23:00.147-07:00How to cardio in your RVGoing full time in my RV meant I had to keep up my workouts. I was diagnosed with diabetes this past year and starting my day on my walking desk treadmill each morning, working my morning emails and issues while working up a sweat is obviously important to my health and has been the one way I know that works for me to maintain good healthy exercise. So how to do this in my new rolling home?!? <br />
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Formerly I had a great treadmill from Treaddesk.com but it was too big and heavy for the rv. It didn't fold up or hide away. So I had to sell that and I went on a search for a sturdy yet compact option. </div>
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In my Pace Arrow there was a recliner rocker chair that was just to the right as you entered through the side door and just behind the passenger seat. I removed that chair to storage. I wanted a seating position there so I found some replacement feet for my red office chair that I love to replace the wheels (don't want it rolling around while driving). I measure the chair space and the found a folding treadmill that was very sturdy and with a big enough tread for my stride. It fits the space and folds upright with a single pull of a pin. It's perfect. </div>
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It has an armature that also folds but I need to have a speaker moved before I'll be able to do that regularly. For now the arms are not a big deal. </div>
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In rigged up a shelf on the arms to hold my laptop so I can work will walking. </div>
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Presenting my treadmill in my RV!!</div>
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Folded up with chair in front:</div>
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Chair moved:</div>
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Tread folded down into walking position;</div>
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Shelf into position holding my laptop:</div>
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Anyone for a stroll?</div>
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Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7532001115611748259.post-13236740060488270952014-06-03T16:15:00.001-07:002014-06-03T16:15:13.928-07:00A whole new world!I sold my cute house in north Portland Oregon and have embarked on a new journey as a brand new full time RV'er! <div><br></div><div>House expenses, utilities and related costs were eating up my income and I identified that travel was a priority for my life, both in the US and overseas. Those expenses were preventing me doing the things I wanted to do. After the market returned to a place where I could sell my house and pay off the mortgage and walk away with some cash I started considering options. With a job that can be done remotely with a very understanding and supportive boss, and with the opportunity of opening up to more theatre work by having more mobility, not to mention my innate sense of adventure and making less common choices, full timing fit the bill. </div><div><br></div><div>After the decision was made the universe really stepped up and conspired to make it all happen quickly and smoothly. My house sold to the first showing. I found my dream coach in my price range and a great dealer to work with. People stepped in to buy all my stuff that I would not need. It has been incredible. </div><div><br></div><div>In a matter of months I'm now living in my 2003 Fleetwood Pace Arrow, lovingly named "Wellington," with my two adorable pugs Max and Myko. They are loving walking around the RV parks, visiting other rv'ers... Speaking of, it's like a big extended family as well. Smiling faces, friendly greetings. My neighbor last night was playing Irish jigs on his flute outside my window as I worked. Beautiful. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Myko max and I enjoyed the late evening outside on a gorgeous June night. More adventures to come!!</span></div></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqqwn9UyV5pG67_98STByDQWMCIbR5AV-BN0ing0x0LYZhhtOUZvJfgWnO_0O8CPiSfwrpvCc01UV3hR6nnY8SHMLyEP8JKg46q3vv7IWAWZ_0lpwxNZsybDsPHlV0mVZRx5s7MFBimJg/s640/blogger-image-1643403856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqqwn9UyV5pG67_98STByDQWMCIbR5AV-BN0ing0x0LYZhhtOUZvJfgWnO_0O8CPiSfwrpvCc01UV3hR6nnY8SHMLyEP8JKg46q3vv7IWAWZ_0lpwxNZsybDsPHlV0mVZRx5s7MFBimJg/s640/blogger-image-1643403856.jpg"></a></div>Spikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15896928130979435402noreply@blogger.com1