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: Rattle in windows
May 6, 2008
We have a 2003 Fleetwood Flair Motorhome. The driver's & passenger window
both have a annoying rattle. (the driver side is worse). These window slide open, from the back to the front. They have screens in them. There is no door involved.
Do you have any suggestions.
Thank you for your help.
Subject: favorite RV parks
May 4, 2008
Hi,
We're planning a trip south from Corvallis, OR next winter. We're curious
about the California park listed among your "Favorites," Anza Borrego Palm
Canyon State Park. The park website shows several areas where RV camping is
available...do you, by any chance, have a favorite you could recommend?
Thanks for your help.
We love your website!
+++Borrego Springs has been among our favorite winter destinations for many years. There are many areas available for dry camping throughout this expansive park. It's common to see clusters of RVs together virtually anywhere, as you merely need to pull a bit off the road and set up camp. The most popular spot in the State Park is at Palm Canyon, which offers both full hookups and nicely prepared dry camping sites. Unless the rules have changed, while you can make a reservation at the State Park for full hookups, it's first come/first served in terms of choice of sites. Our preference has been for the two rows on the north side of the park, as most of them claim their own palm tree for shade, decor, and to play home to signifcant bird populations.
Subject: Regarding Picking Correct Tires For Trailer
May 1, 2008
[NOTE: This responds to a previously posted question concerning pulling a trailer behind a motorhome]
Hi Tom,
This question hit squarely upon one of the recommendations that I am planning to use in the Preparing For Mexico R.V. book...
Use the same tire, indeed the same wheel as you have on your rig. That way you will decrease the chance of having a second flat force you to yell for help. The trailer would undoubtedly be lighter than your motorhome. When the rig's rear tires get old retire them to trailer duty. This eliminates yet another thing that we have to keep track of (different tires, different vendor). Mark each trailer tire inside sidewall with a tire crayon showing direction of rotation---that'll make switching easier.
Saludos!
From:
Subject: Re: Guns in RV's
Date: May 1, 2008
Though not an easy subject and certainly not colored in Black & White but very heavy in the Gray department, I must tell you that the "Guns in your RV" advice is way off base and panders to the left wing and criminals,
I am retired and have carried a gun since I was 17 years old, I have killed NO ONE and have no desire to do so, I am an NRA Certified instructor in personal protection, I am also a combat veteran of the infantry in Vietnam and have seen the terrible damage a gun can do,
Your article in I guess your opinion would help stop that damage? Indeed it would because the criminal will not do as you suggest and not carry a gun, But he/she (sorry ladies) will read your suggestions and know that here is another hen house with no guard and easy pickings!!I am wondering how a family are to protect themselves if they are attacked?? Call the police? Or have ADT do it? I can tell you this that 95% of the criminals will have plenty of time to complete their crime and kill you BEFORE the police arrive, Sorry but cost does not allow for an officer to sit outside or inside your area waiting for Joe Badguy to strike, In fact the Bad Guy KNOWS where the police are and will strike at the most opportune time!!
This is a course that takes me 8-10 hours to present and I fear to much space on your website,
Let me hit on a few other points on your website, A shotgun will indeed do a lot of damage and your Bedroom must be awful large for you to swing it around in, The noise will indeed alert intruders and get shots fired into your hiding (?) spot, No, unless you are going to saw it down leave the shotgun for hunting, My students ask me what is the best gun for home protection?? I reply "The one that fits you best, and that you can handle"! Then PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE, This gun has almost no chance of being needed but if it is I want you to KNOW what you are going to do for each situation facing you!!
I advocate shooting NO ONE for stealing your goods or your TV, That is why you have insurance!! I DO say shoot to KILL anyone that is attempting harm to you or your family, But you gotta know what you are going to do, California is indeed a screwball state where your rights are concerned and actually do not care if you are murdered as long as they catch the one THEY armed and DISARMED you!! All those anti gunners out there I would guess 90% of them either carry a gun with a permit issued by "friends" or have bodyguards!! The choice is yours, Are you willing to kneel down and await your bullet to the head or lay tied up while the rape and mayhem is committed then take your shot to the face or are you ready to find an instructor or contact the NRA, or Gun Owners of America or the 2nd Amendment Foundation for an instructor and LEARN how to protect yourself?? The LAWMAKERS are NOT going to protect you, Look at the drug laws, has that problem gone away?? My students ask me "Do you always carry a gun?" My reply is, "I carry 50% of the time, YOU guess which 50"!
Best Regards and Happy motoring I am out there and I have LOADED pistols and revolvers in my RV so any bad guys reading this need to be aware of that fact!!
+++For clarification, we have written no articles expressing an opinion on whether RVers should travel with guns for personal protection. We have, however, reported on course offerings at RV seminars where the instructor was extremely cautious about recommending that RVers do so. We respect this reader's views, but recognize that others would offer sharply different opinions. We do not pretend to endorse a "right answer" here. Rather we believe this is a matter that each RVer should determine in accordance with his or her own personal research, legal constraints, personal comfort level, and common sense.
Subject: Rental RV's To Mexico
April 30, 2008
[NOTE: While this pertains to RV rentals heading for Mexico, most of the recommendations here would be equally applicable to domestic rentals -- and is thus a helpful checklist.]
Hi Tom,
With regards to renting an RV for use in Mexico, it is best to rent a rig in the United States (preferably as close to the border---and lower fuel prices as one can get).
Without question Cruise America seems to rent a larger number of rigs going to mainland Mexico:
http://www.cruiseamerica.com
El Monte RV in El Monte California rents motor homes that seem to travel to Baja California.
I would urge renters to spend some time at the rental lot and check their prospective rig out thoroughly before setting off for the border:
Start the motor and see if it sounds smooth. Rigs that crank and crank before firing off are a poor candidate for economical and reliable motoring.
Have the staff at the rental office re-check tire pressure including the spare. If the rig is equipped with a jack make sure it and all attachments are present and in good shape.
Do a safety check: Headlamps, tail lamps, marker and clearance lamps. Make sure the horn sounds, loudly. You will probably end up using the windshield wipers so make sure that they wipe and not just smear. Check seat belts (Mexican cops are strict about this). Make sure that the keys given you fits the door or doors.
Make sure that all exterior compartments lock and unlock easily.
Move the rig and check for puddles of oil.
Switch on the water pump and listen for the pump should it cycle. If it does there's a faucet cracked open or there's a leak somewhere.
Fire off the refrigerator. It should start to get cool within a half hour.
Fire off the water heater if the rig has domestic water in the tank. It shouldn't sound like a blast furnace---have the agency adjust the heater air valve if the heater is noisy.
Start the generator from both inside the rig and at the generator itself---let it warm up and then turn on the roof air. It should start producing cold air right away.
Take the rig for a road test---bigger motor homes are rather sluggish in acceleration but have a friend observe tail pipe emissions from his rear view mirror. If you see a plume of black smoke (gasoline engine), turn around and get another rig.
Make sure that the agency's rental insurance policy has a legal aid provision that can post a minimum of twenty thousand dollars in case of a serious accident.
Review the paperwork and insure that the license number on the contract agrees with the license number on the rig. The same for the Vehicle Identification Number.
Make sure that your driver license is not going to expire while you are in Mexico.
Many U.S. toll-free numbers do not work in Mexico. You'll want to write down the agency's toll number just in case.
:-) Because I love Italy and it's superb cuisine, I will tip you off to the fact that Barilla brand pastas are very common in Mexico but stewed canned tomatoes and tomato paste are scarce. Bring seasoning and balsamic vinegar---and good red wine!
NOTE: If you find the East Coast to be too hot and muggy, head inland to Ciudad Valles and then go west another thirty miles to Tomosopo. There is a rain forest ambiance and river with waterfalls. It'll be cooler and drier. Don't forget to obtain a strong fan because it is by far the most important appliance for comfort.
Saludos!
Subject: trailer tires
April 29, 2008
Hi, I have a trailer I bought from Overbuilt to pull behind my motorhome. I took it down to the CAT scales today to find out where I'm at before I start out. The trailer is rated to carry 10,000 pounds, the actual axel weight is 6100 lbs. The tires on it are rated for 2150 lbs. I tried to find a 15 inch trailer tire online, but can't find one rated high enough. Do you have any ideas? I'm thinking perhaps a real tire store instead on online would be a good place to start, but would like to have some idea of what I should be looking for. Thanks...
+++Perhaps others have had experience with this sort of issue...
Subject: ...can you help us?
April 28, 2008
Dear sir,we are writing to you from Italy. We would like to make a journey by motorhome in
Mexico (east coast),but we can't find any motorhomes rentals company (or private)in Mexico (Usa companies don't permit RVing in Mexico,we think). Can you help us in our search?
Thank you very much,
+++Hopefully David will be able to offer some guidance here...
Subject: Losing Hubcaps
April 27, 2008
Just got home from a 1500 mile trip and found I'd lost two hubcaps on the door side of the trailer.The caps are the molded plastic ones that fit onto the lugnuts.We also lost same on last trailer(Both HHII's). Anybody have any way to keep the new ones on?
Thank You,
Subject: Help
April 19, 2008
I'll try to keep this simple. How does one go about finding which coaches are best? Evaluate quality? Safest? Holds it's value?
I've been googling until I'm just plain worn out. I can't find the difference between a Newmar, Country Coach, Foretravel, Featherlite, Monaco, American, etc.
They all claim they are the best and Prevost appears to be the only one worth considering, then again Foretravel will tell you that if you're not ready for the Teschner (prevost conversion) then you've just got to try their CE.
HELP!! Where does one go to figure out where they all sit in the food chain????
+++There are lots of opinions on this topic, but likely not any "one size fits all" answer.
Subject: Re: Article Update
April 20, 2008
Click on travelogues-RV destinations. Fourth listing down is: An RVer's Guide to California. Go to subheading "Driving". Fifth paragraph down. There is your information.
We have no idea about route restrictions in OR out of California. We just came back from a 6 month trip......our MH is 40'6" and we went everywhere we could fit or thought that we wouldn't get scratched to pieces.One has to be somewhat cautious with the Big Rigs and you could certainly get yourself in a pickle. We also use a computer program called "CoPilot" which gives safe routes for trucks and large vehicles. It's been a lot of help when you aren't sure. But as far as we know, there are no restrictions. I cannot speak for other states, but like I said, we were all over the place and had no problems. Our motorhome is considered a 40' so we really cannot speak for the really big MH........45 and such.
+++This was a reader comment concerning an article written in '03 that commented on a pending situation in California dealing with motorhomes longer than 40' in length. That situation has since been clarified, and we've amended the article accordingly. Aside from that, I believe you'll find that this article still offers a wealth of information about RVers that are contemplating RV travels in the Golden State.
Subject: Writing A Book About How To Prepare And Manage An RV For Mexico
April 18, 2008
Hi Tom,
I am starting to write a book about how to prepare and manage an RV in Mexico. Rather than discuss "where to go" (which has been already been done many times), the new work will deal with fundamentals such as "Is's versus ought-to-be's", "Less is more" outright outfitting with suggestions, pro-and-con arguments, and a few outright, "you have to prepare for this possibilities". Admittedly a lot of information will end up being highly opinionated.
But I am going to avoid trying to re-cap other good reference book material, such as border paperwork, suggestions as for destinations, etc. What I am uncertain about is whether or not to include humurous stories or adopt excerpts from the "RVing Mexico" mini-series on your site. What I do promise is to jam-pack the book with before-now-unwritten hard-earned-knowledge, common sense, and scads of reference online links, etc. Like any aspiring new author, the thought of publishing such a book only to maybe have it "flop" gives me the Heebie-Jeebies. If you or the readers have any suggestions please ask them to send me an email. Many thanks!
Saludos!
+++Hi David -- As you know we've long thought it a great idea if you could take the information compiled in the series you've created for us and put it together into book format. In our view there is nothing else available on the internet that does such a great job of dealing with all aspects of RVing in Mexico. For out two cents worth, we also think that real life stories make a great read. And of course we'd invite our readers to pass along any thoughts they may have.
Subject: Grey water tanks
April 14, 2008
I blew a back tire on the driver's side of my Toyota Huntsman micromini motorhome. Needless to say it took out my greywater tank and I have been having difficulty finding parts. We used to have Cherokee RV Salvage here in Denver but it has gone under. I had info from the tank itself that survived but the company seems to be out of business (Best Plastics Inc. in Cassopolis MN or MI) Does anyone have any ideas where to look? The tank is 17 1/2 x 35 x 9. One tag says it is 7" deep so don't know if that matters. I sure would appreciate any help I can get as camping season is at hand and I would like to head out over Memorial Weekend.
Thanks in advance.
Subject: Trailer weight?
April 13, 2008
Hello, I was wonder if you could answer a question for me or point me in the right direction to find the answer. I am looking to upgrade from a pop-up to a travel trailer, but I am not sure if I can pull the camper I am looking at. It is a 1992 Gulf Stream, Conquest, model c18fd. I’ve looked in the manual, in the camper and on the tags and can’t find the loaded or unloaded weight. I have a smaller truck and would like to know the weight of the trailer before I buy it.
Thanks in advance for your time.
Larry & Regina
+++Even better than the "advertised" weight is the *actual* weight. It's fairly easy to get a precise weight by taking it to a local truck stop.
Subject: traveling from ohio to virginia beach
April 9, 2008
I was wondering if anyone has travelled from ohio to virginia beach? The reason I am asking is because I am needing to know if it is a mountanous drive or fairly smooth drive. We are pulling a 33 foot travel trailer and the route with the least amount of hills would be perferred.
Plus if anyone has any 'must sees' in virginia beach I am open to all suggestions.
Thanks,
Subject: buying an RV
April 8, 2008
We are looking at buying a 2001 Wildwood (24 feet with a small slide out) RV made by Forest River. It looks like it has hardly been used. We will use it for holidays and weekends.We have no experience with this make. We have owned a Nomad for 5 years and had no problems. I would be interested in other's experience with a Wildwood.
Thank you
Janet and John
Subject: RE: Shock Absorbers
April 8, 2008
Hi Tom, it’s been a long time since I communicated with you. When you went through the Country Coach purchase decision I was right behind you doing the same thing and chose a CC 32’ Intrigue for our travels, in part because of your experience. We took a factory tour at the CCI reunion when you were at the dinner on the lawn. Our reasons for choosing the shorter coach were the same as yours when you purchased the Alpine 34’, mostly size and the desire to travel, not stay in one place.
We still have our stumpy little coach and after seven years it is really performing beautifully. We thought of replacing it with a newer coach and came to the same conclusion you did, that the Alpine 34’ model is perfect for our purpose, I love those storage compartments. But after thinking about it awhile we decided to just continue on with the Intrigue, it is just running and working so well. However, we now have seven years on the Toyo tires, about 50,000 miles, and are going to change them when we are in Oregon this summer. At the same time we are starting to experience a more pronounced “bounce” that is common with the 32’ DynoMax chassis. I turned to your site to see if there are any recent articles on replacement shock absorbers and did not find anything. Have you heard any of your experts recommend the best quality replacement shocks? We don’t mind a stiffer ride if it will help dampen the bounce in dips or big bumps in the road.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Happy trails,
+++Seven years on a set of tires seems like good luck, but surely time for replacement. We haven't any experience with replacement shocks, but likely some of our readers might help here.
Subject: Mexican "Democratic" Price Controls On Diesel & Gasoline
April 2, 2008
Hi Tom,
The retail price of fuel in Mexico remains a hot topic. If the country today remained under the control of the long-ruling PRI party which in a historic moment was voted out of office early this century, we most certainly would have been facing the same fuel increases as found North of the border.
But history didn't stop there---the winner jubilant PAN political party was just a year or so ago almost ousted by a liberal PRD party---Mexico now has a real horserace going as far as presidential politics are concerned. Inflation and hyper-inflation has plagued Mexico for more decades than I care to count. Woe to the political party whom chooses to ignite inflation.
Finally I have enough gray hair to easily remember the comic tragedy of the 1970's "oil crisis" and long gas station lines. I also remember working in an oil refinery cruising along at forty percent capacity. The final straw then was a trip across West Texas and listening to an elderly gent as he gazed out at legions of mesquite and oil well cricket pumps. "Been pumping at five pèrcent of capacity now for the last six months or so---don't do no good to try and force it through a pipe line that has been pinched down at the other end".
The authentic way to gauge just whom is doing what to whom is to audit the income of senior petroleum company CEO's, and top share holders. Now let's take a look at how much investment is being done to provide new refining facilities. Whatever happened to the plans to erect a huge oil refinery somewhere in Arizona?
Tom, I predicted the outcome of free-for-all regulation of electricity in California. Remember ENRON? Well the mature gentlemen fondling the finances of big oil have enough class or caution to not rub it in our face. Remember early cowboy cinemas in which a sucker bet he could identify under which shell lay the pea? This is the reason why big oil sends huge ocean going tankers all over the world. We sell West Texas intermediate to Britain whom ships us North sea oil. Venzuela sells Lagomar crude to us and to India. The middle east sells to everyone while Alaskan oil goes to Korea. Not even a KRAY computer would be able to trace the finances of such a tentacled array of markets and suppliers and it is working exactly as it was designed to do!
Greed damages not only markets but human beings as well. Actual inflation is going to soar in the USA just as soon as an economic "trigger" goes off.
That quirky Russian geologist whom claimed in 1994 that Siberia contained (I forget how many) "Quintillions" barrels of recoverable crude has disappeared.
I wonder just how many more "crisis" lay ahead. Could the antics of the infamous "Brothers Hunt" and Silver be already forgotten?
Time To Relinquish My Soap Box!
Saludos!
David
+++We covet the ability to provide a "soap box" for comment here. There are many points of view on this issue, and all deserve to be represented.
ED NOTE: Below you will find quite a number of items "dated" April 1. This represents discovering quite a number of "filtered" messages that date back as much as six weeks. So we've given them an appropriate new date, April Fools Day, and at long last managed to get them into the Mailbox. Our apologies for the delay. We seem to have an overly aggressive mail filter at times, and it takes great delight in finding very challenging hiding places for what it removes from the mail stream...
Subject: fleetwood vs. baystar
April 1, 2008
I'm comparing the fleetwood Terra lx or the Newmar Baystar can anyone give me some advice?
Subject: RV Storage
April 1, 2008
Hi RVers on line,
My wife and I are English and live in the UK. However, some years ago we bought an RV in The States and enjoy about 6 weeks in it each year. The RV is currently stored in Denver and in July and August this year we intend to tour Washington state and Oregon. Our flight back home is from Portland and so I need to find secure and friendly storage there. Naturally enough I wish to find such storage before leaving the U.K. rather than have to arrive in Portland worrying where to leave the RV for the next 11 months.
Can you help me please, or suggest a contact who may be able to?
Many thanks,
+++Perhaps some of our readers are familiar with storage near Portland. There appear to be quite a number of options in and around Eugene -- but we'll see if someone might identify a suitable spot near Portland.
Subject: Supernova 37"
April 1, 2008
I saw an notice by some fellow Rvers with regard to their disappointing
purchase of one of these units. I would very much like to converse with
this couple even though they are going to exchange it for a more
traditional A type rig. Please get back to us.... If anyone knows how to
soften the ride of these International based units please respond in
kind.
Thanks,
Robert & Sandra Clayton...Canada.
Subject: SR1 Leggett to San Francisco
April 1, 2008
Hi again
Further to my query in January regarding my trip down the west coast. I would like to take the SR1 from Leggett through Fort Bragg to San Francisco but on AAA it says this route is not recommended for large RVs, as I will be driving a 27 footer has anyone taken this route driving a similar vehicle.
Thanks in advance
James
While this may depend in part on one's confidence in driving an RV in tight, windy and steep places, there are indeed parts of SR 1 that we drove in a 24' truck camper and decided that's about as much vehicle as we'd want to take in places.
Subject: battery system
April 1, 2008
Dear RVOL,
could someone please give me an idea of what sort of battery system i should have in my RV. i have bought a Mercedes benz Unimog, which i am busy having completely re done for a expedition through Africa. what i will be running is a 24VDC air conditioning unit, a 130 L national luna refrigerator and some very small strip lighting. For this i was thinking of 2x200 AH deep cycle batteries, which whilst the RV is running to be charged from the Alternator, but whilst the RV is stationery i have bought 3x 74 watt solar panels as well as a 2000W generator, what im not sure about is whether i need an inverter, a charger or both...... any ideas and help are welcome.
Many thanks
+++Our electrical specialists might be able to respond to this one. For our part we'd not that refrigerators are not friendly to battery power; that three solar panels is nice, but isn't a complete answer; that an inverter/charger is pretty much standard equipment these days, and that AGM batteries are considered by many as the solution of choice.
Subject: Alaska rv parks
April 1, 2008
Was browsing though your site and looked at your recommended Alaskan parks
1. anchorage rv park is no more…its now an ugly mall.
2. stony creek rv park, just outside of Seward is a real keeper…its about 6 miles from "downtown" Seward…very nice…
3. another nice park is moose river lodge in sterling alaska..very small only 6 spaces..but overlooks the river..
Pete Hutton , General Manager , Clear Channel Radio-Fairbanks
+++Unhappy news about the demise of the Anchorage RV Park. It was most attractive...
Subject: Re: Advice from Trailer Towers Who Have "done" Arizona
April 1, 2008
Tom:
Thank you so....much for responding. It certainly made us feel a lot better about our trip. Prior to you comment and one from another site in AZ we were very apprehensive. A couple of people shook their heads when we told them our plans.
Since you have towed vehicles in the past, would you mind sharing driving experiences through Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico?
Thanks again!!!!
+++We've not one it recently, but a few years ago we did many of the highest passes in these states towing a 27' Alpine fiver. We're used to mountain driving in the Pacific Northwest, but some of these are even higher. So long as you're not in a hurry, you should do fine. However some type of engine braking system is, in our view, quite important.
Subject: RV travel -- with birds
April 1, 2008
We are first time RVer’s in the northeast (NY) We just purchased our used class A last fall, and have only had it out 4 or 5 times before the season ended. With the season coming up again I have two questions that someone out there might be able to help with.
My first question, has any one out there ever traveled with birds? We have two peach faced love birds and we love them. It is not possible for the babysitter we had last year to care for them again. My husband thinks it would be possible to travel with them. We would be grateful for any suggestions, or information.
My second question, although our motor home had been lovingly cared for on the inside, and is in near perfect condition, the outside has been pretty neglected. It has a three tone paint job, and the two darker colors seem to have some kind of oxidation on them. The best way that I can describe it is a cousin to lime scale in the bathroom shower. We tried some of the commercial products out there, and some household cleaners, however, they require a certain amount of elbow grease that has a tendency to also remove some of the paint, which is very undesirable. Any suggestions would be gratefully received.
Pat & Doug Holmes
+++We've observed a number of RVers that travel with the feathery pets.
Subject: RV Content update
April 1, 2008
Hi - Tom and Stephanie,
We have been doing an RV oriented Podcast for over 2 years that may be
of interest to the readers of "RVers Online". We feature the latest
news, technology and destinations of interest to our fellow RVers in our
1/2 (or so) monthly podcasts. We create the podcast (RV Navigator) in
order to share our lifestyle with others and to share common
experiences. As with you, we get alot of very satisfying emails in
response to the Podcast. We are, like you, non-commercial and motivated
by an altruistic interest in RVing.
I would appreciate your comments after listening, and if appropriate a
referring link to the RV Navigator webstie.
We are of course listed in most of the Podcasting directories, including
iTunes. At this time we have had over 13,000 episode downloads with an
average of over 500 listeners each month.
Ken, The RV Navigator
Podcasting the RV LIfestyle
http://rvnavigator.com
+++We find this new technology an interesting innovation for RVers.
Subject: Alaska, enjoy at your pace.
April 1, 2008
[NOTE: This is a copy of a reply to an earlier posted question.]
Bill,
We spent last summer in Alaska and had no reservations. No problem!
The one time we were turned away we ended finding a far superior campground just on the other side of Fairbanks. If you get to Fairbanks I’d recommend Chena Marina Campground. It is unique. Many sites can receive free wi-fi. So what’s unique? The cg is on a pond used by the bush pilots. Planes come and go. (Not so often as to be objectionable.) In fact, you may have a plane rolling down the road to get to the landing strip that is next to the pond. (Walking around the pond I saw 100 or so planes – some in the water, some alongside hangers, some strapped down next to homes.) The campground has some old buildings from the construction of the pipeline that are used for their office, clean rest rooms, and other uses, which adds to the atmosphere. Once in a while there is a caravan that fills it pretty well up.
About caravans. A couple of times we just stayed at a comfortable campground and waited a day for them to go on their way. We saw them clog a couple of places, but never so bad that we could not find a place. I’m sure that when they returned home they thought the whole place was crowded not realizing they brought the crowd with them. This year there may be less travel because of the economy/price of gasoline so you should not be concerned.
Fairbanks is a delightful city with a small town atmosphere. I strongly recommend a visit to the Univ. of Alaska Museum plus the related Arctic Research activities – virtual tour of the supercomputer, tour of the labs, and tour of the missile launch pad located about 30 miles north of town. These are once every week or two so you should check for the schedule at the museum.
A highlight of our trip (arranged at the campground) was taking a tour by van up the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to 50 miles above the Arctic Circle at Coldfoot. From there it was 150 miles further north by air to a landing strip at Anaktuvuk Pass in the Brooks Mountain range. This isolated Nanamiut community depends on fishing and hunting caribou for subsistence. We met a charming high school girl who told us of her family life, school, community, and her ambitions. Of our 17 years RVing this is among the more memorable days. The Gates of the Arctic Nat’l Park (the largest N.P) has three thousand visitors a year, so as you can see it’s not overly crowded.
PS: My apologies. Gates of the Arctic NP is the northern-most NP. Wrangell-St. Elias NP, near Valdez, is the largest.
Subject: Interior Re-design
April 1, 2008
WE'RE THINKING OF TAKING OUT THE TABLE AND CHAIRS IN OUR 2000 MONACO SIGNATURE AND REPLACING THEM WITH A BOOTH DINETTE. CAN YOU RECOMMEND ANYONE THAT CAN DO THIS FOR US?
THANK YOU,
Subject: Bedspread
April 1, 2008
This is our 3rd Alpenlite 5th Wheel. During the 80's, 90's and early 2000's the the bedspreads were made so that they covered the bed and then doubled back over the pillows. Our current bedspread is showing wear and we would like to purchase a replacement. Is there some place to contact for an item such as this?
Thanks!
Dennis
Subject: Beware Tennessee
April 1, 2008
Heads up to anyone contemplating Tennessee residency ... you will LOSE your right to vote!! We are full timers and recent Tennessee residents. Unfortunately, unlike Texas, the law was held up and at least 286 folks are not able to vote in this year's national elections. These are folks who were purged off the voter registration lists so does not count folks like my husband and I who became Tennessee residents, tried to register to vote and were denied that right. When we chose Tennessee, we chose it for multiple reasons, among which were consideration that this might be the place where we will eventually permanently settle! Apparently we have to purchase some 2x4 something in a residential area then we can vote ... this is not right! Any opinions? ... or am I just venting in the wind?
+++I believe all the major RV organizations are watching this with interest and concern. Good Sam is actually joining the legal battle by filing an amicus brief. But the outcome here -- on these facts -- is uncertain at best.
Subject: Question regarding waxing
April 1, 2008
Hi Tom and Stephanie,
That pic of your coach in Organ Pipes looks so nice. We're on our way this week to AZ via Borrego. We dropped by and said hi to you guys a few months ago when you were at the Springs. We're the cyclist from San Diego, Dan & Michelle.
We just took delivery of our new Knight and have a question for you regarding waxing and washing.
What do you use for general washing?
How often do you wax and what product do you recommend?
How long should we wait to wax?
What do you use just to take off surface dirt when you can't wash it at a park?
Any info would be greatly appreciated. Maybe will see you on the road and until then have a great and safe journey!!
Michelle
+++Great to hear from you, and we've enjoyed crossing paths. Congratulations on the new coach -- and I think we'll defer to our readers for these recommendations. We were told to wait about 3 months before the first wax job -- which we had someone do professionally.
Subject: Towing capacity question
April 1, 2008
Hi,
I own a 1996 Chevy Astro van. I am looking to purchase a trailer from a friend. They weighted it for me so I could see if my van will two it. The scales said the axle weight is 4020 and the tongue was 900. I cannot find what the towing capacity of the Astro is. What do you recommend?
Thanks,
Subject: Towing with a trailer
March 30, 2008
I am considering purchasing a 14' car trailer rather than utilizing a tow bar with my 38' MH. I do not like unhitching when I must back. I know the trailer also has disadvantages. Would appreciate any comments pro and con.
Thanks,
+++Most coach owners would far prefer to tow four down if at all possible. RV parks and campgrounds frequently do NOT have space, in effect, for THREE "vehicles". And most of us can go for years without getting into a situation where we need to back up, with toad attached. As you've surmised, that's a no-no.
Subject: Re: mexican diesel fuel
March 29, 2008
[NOTE: The following is a copy of a response to a reader we believe may be of general interest...]
Hi Gary,
Thanks for writing. At this time it is known for certain that the Pemex Station referred to as "Servicio Meza" in the tiny town of EL ROSARIO, has the last "guaranteed" source of UBA only ultra-low sulfur diesel on your way south on Mex 1. At 200 plus miles from the border it is strategically placed so as to allow you a much greater depth of penetration than would a last minute fill up at the border.
If you added say a 100 gallon tank to your truck's existing fuel capacity it would allow you to proceed from El Rosario with full tanks at a much cheaper price. You could then use HALF of the fuel in each and every tank including the 100 gallon tank, fuel up with Regular PEMEX low sulfur diesel and then keep on driving until all of the tanks once again read no lower than one-half full. At that point you should be near to El Rosario once again to fill everything up with the new UBA Pemex ultra-low-sulfur fuel.
EXAMPLES
If total tankage were to be say 140 gallons, you could drive on pure UBA until HALF gone, then fill again with regular low sulfur diesel. This would give you a 140 gallon "range" in Baja Sur, at which time you should be ready to tank up once again at El Rosario on your way home. It all will depend on your miles-per-gallon fuel economy but should allow a liberal stay at Mulege or Loreto, with lots of side trips and shopping.
Remember to fuel up WELL BEFORE reaching the border on your way home. That way you can save a dollar or possibly even more each gallon you buy. A hundred and forty dollars toward paying-off the cost of your auxillary fuel tank!
Saludos!
David
Subject: Tow Vehicles
March 28, 2008
Is there a publication available that lists the towing capacity of various light duty trucks? I have a pop-up that weighs around 2000lbs. I want to have enough power, but do not want to go overboard with the price of gasoline where it is.
Thanks
+++I seem to recall Motorhome Magazine offering an annual listing of that type -- but others might be more familiar with the "right" resource here.
Subject: RV park in Lake Chapala
March 28, 2008
Hello My friends:
Just wanted to let you now the news in Roca Azul Resort & RV Park, and it is that we are starting a Cultural Center, this will have many activities here such as Wine Tastings, a wine club, and a very interesting "Spanish Cultural Classes", this will be given by PHD Marco Beltran, at Roca Azul resort, with a variety of interesting topics, of mexican Culture mixes with the spanish language, so that clases won't be the usual ABC stuff, you will learn the language while learning the rich and beautifull mexcian Culture.
IF you interested in any of this subjects please reply this email and I will send you full and detailed information.
Thanks again have a great day.
Oscar Sanchez Barba Acevedo, Director: Roca Azul Resort & RV Park
Subject: Lg washer dryer combo
March 27, 2008
I am looking into buying a combo washer/dryer for my 5th wheel, already
plumbed in the closet. Live in Mexico with 30 amp but a 50 amp circuit
breaker. The electric says 115 volt - can I use it?
Subject: new digital TVs
March 26, 2008
A question which I have not seen discussed……….if we put a new television in our motor home—or even get the converter box for the old one, will our standard (9 yr. Old MH) antenna still work – most of the places we stay do not have cable and as we tend to park in shady area (under trees) our roof mounted satellite dish is just about useless…so we have relied on the old analog system for the few channels we watch…. How are these new televisions supposed to work if you’re not hooked up to cable or a very reliable – open sky satellite? Will they work as my laptop computer does – if you’re close to a wifi site then you can get connected? And what if you’re not? So, what I’m really looking for is information before we spend any money on renovations.
+++We presently get digital over-the-air signals, many of which are now HD if your TV will support it. We still get analog over-the-air signals using the same roof antenna. WiFi at this point is not geared to provide a primary source for TV -- though who knows what the future holds.
Subject: Hi there..
March 25, 2008
My mom and dad has {not sure what year} Venture 36' motor home….They have replaced pretty much everything in it ..from jacks, parts of motor ect…and they would lose big time if they would trade it in for a motor home with a tip out…They really love the motor home but their living quarters are to small. They live in it about 8 months out of the year. What they would like to do is to put one tip out with the living room and kitchen. They know about what everything will cost, my question is do you know any dealer in Arizona or surrounding areas that could handle this?
Thank you,
+++It's unusual to add a slide room to an older unit, but I'm sure it's been done. Perhaps someone could provide a contact.
Subject: toad braking systems
March 22, 2008
As my M&G from my '04 Forester will not fit on the '08 Forester, I've had to start looking at other systems. I've narrowed it down to the US Gear Unified system or the SMI Air Force One system. Would be interested in any opinions pro or con on with either of these systems.
Thanks.
David Horn & Beatle, the Travelin' Dog
+++While we have no personal experience with either of these systems, perhaps some of our readers can offer comment or opinion on this one...
Subject: Chicken Gold Camp listing
March 21, 2008Hi,
You have us listed as providing high speed interent...thank you, but some corrections: We do not charge (use to some years back) for WiFi use. And our park is "Chicken Gold Camp" not "Busbys/Chicken Gold Camp". Thank you for the corrections.
Mike Busby, Chicken Gold Camp (www.chickengold.com)
+++We're of course happy to make the correction to what was likely a reader report to us. However, given your location we thought we'd post it here as well so that folks will know they really can connect from Chicken! Surely you're the only game in town (-;
Subject: Gel Coat Maintenance
March 20, 2008
[NOTE: This pertains to an earlier posted inquiry.]
Hi,
To help you get started the right way, think of your gel coat RV as a land-locked yacht. How would you fare buffing-out a sixty foot sloop? Boaters really do have good answers when it comes to gel coat maintenance. If you should querey Google and ask for gel coat maintenance products you will get a screen full of ideas. I know that reviving really dull gel coat involves the use of a heavy-duty electric buffer and a progression of products from rough-out compound. to polish, then wax. I do remember a couple of wax products: Rain Dance and Classic Car Wax as being the longest lasting that I have ever tried. New "boutique" products with lengthy windy claims have proved disappointing as far as performance and longevity are concerned. Both wax products that I recommend are paste wax, so you'd better start flexing those muscles!
Saludos,
Subject: Fuse Switch
March 20, 2008
I am looking for a source for a fuse switch so that I do not have to
continue to pull a fuse from the dinghy fuse block in order to tow. Second
choice is DIY instructions how to fabricate a fuse switch.
+++While we've never had to deal with that issue, perhaps there are some creative folks that have found a solution to this one...
Subject: dry camp?
March 18, 2008
Anyone know of a place to dry camp near Santa Barbra, CA., day or two.
Subject: Re: our US visit
March 15, 2008
Hi from Australia,
We are arriving in LA in mid April and are planning to travel around the
USA (RV) for six months and are wondering whether to bring our laptop with us.
We have been told we need to find an ISP in your country, as to use the
one we have at home would be too expensive. Our computer has a wireless
capability. We are in our mid 60s and not very computer "capable" so any
information you give us would be appreciated but in very simple terms, please.
We are looking forward to seeing your country
Thanking you
+++There are of course many, many places to get WiFi when traveling by RV. I'm not sure I understand why you would need an ISP in the US for this purpose, but we have limited knowledge on this one. Perhaps one of our global experts could offer some guidance...
Subject: Some Corrections and additions Please
March 15, 2008
For the following it would be appreciated if some errors might be corrected.
Under
http://www.rversonline.org/RVMFHSE.html
----------------------
MONTANA
Yellowstone's Edge RV Resort, 18 miles south of Livingston and 35 miles north of the North Entrance to Glacier Park, offers free WiFi that reaches for several hundred feet in both directions from the office.
--------------------------
The errors:
1) Yellowstone's Edge is not 35 Miles north of Glacier Park. It is 35 miles north of Yellowstone National Park. This is about a 400 mile error in the location.
2) The correct name is Yellowstone's Edge RV Park. it is wrong at http://www.rversonline.org/RV2.html and http://www.rversonline.org/RVMFHSE.html.
3) WiFi coverage is far more extensive than described, see picture. What is said about coverage was true in 2005 but not after that.
All Access Points are Enterprise/Business (WiFi Alliance approved) quality Access Points with supplemental quality antennas. The interior of the public buildings (game room, store, laundry) and the rental suite all have strong signals from the indoor WiFi Alliance approved Access Point.
The yellow circle represents where the Woodall's representative camped in June 2007 and he had high praise for the quality of the coverage saying few other parks had such successful installations.
I am not an owner, but a frequent guest and in May 2006 I observed the installation of Access Points 2 and 3. Then in June 2007 I observed the installation of 4, 5 and 6.
5) The campground wants every camper to be able to access their email and keep up with personal business on-line. They want a customers who want WiFi.
6) A WEBCAM will be installed soon (before mid April 2008) allowing WEB visitors with JAVA to steer the camera and see the view. The camera will on top of the building marked by "4". You may wish to list the WEBCAM link http://webcam.mtrv.com
I am a retired engineer and I have been helping remotely with the camera. The camera has been on line prior to going to the roof. Winter conditions require caution so as not to have an accident while mounting it.
Regards,
+++Hi Tom, we post this because we do want to ensure our listings are as accurate as possible. I cannot understand the reference you're seeing to "Glacier", as when I went to edit that page it is correctly identified in relation to Yellowstone, not Glacier NP. You're correct that the property does call itself "Park", and not "Resort" -- though we think this is one of those rare occasions where a "park" would be entitled to consider itself a "resort" -- it's a spectacular setting. We appreciate your advise of further wireless upgrades since our visit in 2005, but it you'll note at the end of our listing we'a already published our understanding that those upgrades have been made. Good luck with the webcam -- it's a great place to mount one!
Subject: RVing versus car/motel as mode of travel
March 8, 2008
We are nearing retirement and ready to consider travel all over the USA as an early priority. We are not sure if conventional (car/motel) travel is financially superior to RVing. Your thoughts and reference to articles, studies, personal experience, and other web sites would be appreciated.
Thank you.
+++Perhaps some of our readers have researched this issue. This issue is compounded somewhat by the hypothesis that the guiding principle is determining which is "financially superior". Most of us that travel by RV also value the freedom to travel where we wish, when we wish, enjoy the company of other RVers that are on a similar mission, etc. Perhaps you should broaden your perspective on the issue you've presented.
Subject: holding tank treatment
March 7, 2008
Hi,
We are travelling in a 31 foot Jayco Greyhawk and we have a problem with our black water holding tank. It is a 33 gallon tank and we are using "Odorlos" Holding Tank Treatment (quick-dissolving drop-in...) The problem is that we are getting odors much like an outhouse, well before the tank is full. A fellow camper here (Miami) told us that he uses Pine Sol in his black tank and it works well but I want to be sure that it is okay to use. I can't seem to find any info about it on the internet so I hope you help us. I don't know what else to try.
Thanks.
+++This can be a confusing issue. Often RVers assume the black tank is the offender, when in fact it is the gray (usually untreated) tank. Drains need to be kept full (e.g., water can evaporate from an unused shower drain), and often tank vents on the roof are at fault. There are remedies for this too. We'd be slow to adopt home brewed remedies, or anything other than a safe chemical solution that is made specifically for RVs.