Automotive Blog

RV How To: Water Quality

Since I travel a lot, I often find myself in places where the water quality is barely adequate to say the least! Now when it comes to water, the wife and I are sorta squeamish about what we put into our bodies. If it “looks bad, smells bad or tastes funny, we don’t do it….period!” So, in order to obtain good quality drinking water, we mostly depend on store bought water. But we still need water in the RV to do the necessities of life; bathing, washing, cleaning and for toilet flushing.

Sediment Filter – Just because the water is not murky (or maybe it is), or you cannot visibly see anything floating around in it, this does not mean that there are no contaminates in the water. Even if murkiness is not your complaint, a sediment filter will protect your downstream equipment from premature failure by removing the gunk that could otherwise cause a problem. Not sure if you have priced a water heater lately, but they are not cheap! Sediment filters work by straining out the sediment and holding it. Therefore replacement of the cartridges is required once they become plugged.

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When you buy a travel trailer RV it will be a significant investment. Once you have made the determination you’ve made a commitment of your finances and time. You want to enjoy this investment for a long time. Keeping it in top condition is a “must do” not a “want to”. The best way is use a travel trailer RV cover when the trailer is not in uses.

You will have to have to choose between a custom cover and a universal fit .If you’ve decided to keep your travel trailer, RV or toy hauler for a several years, you’ve made Otherwise, measure and get a universal cover.

Using the cover will reflect the infrared rays of the sun to keep the temperature inside lower than it would be if you allowed the unit to sit and bake. That means the interior of unit will last longer and avoid sun fade of the finish. Covers that are made of material that is breathable will protect your travel trailer, RV or toy box from the effects of rain and snow, while at the same time allowing moisture to escape, eliminating the build-up of mold and mildew. You don’t need extreme weather to realize the benefits of a cover. High winds, rain and blowing dust can all take their toll on your unit.

Continue reading ‘What to Look For in a Travel Trailer RV Covers’ »

The Vanagon Weekender models that were introduced in 1983 are rear-engine, rear-drive vans. The 1983-1991 models feature a 4 speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission with an electronic ignition, dynamic oil pressure system and a thermostatically controlled 2-speed electric radiator fan. Most of these Vanagon weekenders have power windows, rear-blowing air conditioning, electronic locks, cruise control, cassette stereo, rear wiper/washer and power mirrors. Seating 7, the Vanagon full camper has a forward-facing center bench that converts into a 3-person bed and 2 rear facing seats that may be removed to increase cargo space. It also has a pop up roof with 2-person bed, window curtains, an optional second deep-cycle marine battery, and much more. Choose from a 3-speed automatic or a manual transmission style. Most stick shifts came in 4-speed versions and VW added a 5-speed option in 1986. As most of the Vanagons are rear wheel drive choose a 4 wheel mode which was made from 1986 to 1991.

Volkswagen vanagon has 4 speed manual transmission, rear wheel drive, electronic ignition, oil pressure system, electronic fuel injection, rear-wheel drive, power steering and brakes, Fuel tank capacity, Chrome hub caps and LP gas and carbon monoxide detectors. Some of the safety features include three point belts for front seats; side impact beams in front doors and sliding side door, height adjustable head restraints for each passenger. Storage tanks have 15.9 gallon gasoline tanks.

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I don’t know about you, but when the snow drifts start disappearing in my back yard, I think spring camping road trip! Just the thought defrosts my winter weary spirit. Day dreaming, exploring and planning my camping season begins with the important task of getting the travel trailer ready for the road. (We own a 1977 Airstream. Keeping current on maintenance is a high priority for us!) Learning the hard way, we begin spring maintenance in the fall while winterizing the trailer for winter storage. As we shut the trailer systems off, we test and inspect each for needed repair. Making note of essential repairs in the fall gives us time to budget funds and schedule repair time before it’s time to travel. We create a separate wish list for non-essential repairs and upgrades. Pre-planning in the fall has reduced the stress of on road “surprises” for us.

Our family hates vacation side trips to find a local RV dealer for unexpected repairs. Wasting precious vacation time camping in the dealer parking lot is not our idea of exploring the scenic back roads! By scheduling repairs for early March, we give our dealer plenty of time to complete work before the “spring rush.” Most often the trailer is left winterized, in case of continued freezing temperatures. Continue reading ‘Get Ready For the Spring Road Trip’ »

Whether buying a fifth wheel, motorhome, travel trailer or other RV at auction, there are some more things you can take into consideration.

1) What do the value guides say this RV is worth under normal circumstances? NADA and Kelly blue book) This will be the upper limit of what you could be expected to pay for the RV at auction.
2) Does the RV come with any kind of manufacture’s warranty? If you find a newer model at auction, chances are that it does. As RV companies become more competitive, they offer their RVs with better and longer warranties.
3) Avoid off brands as they may be harder to service and repair. An RV that has a national network of authorized dealers may be easier to service or repair. Also avoid ‘orphaned’, where the parent company is no longer in business.
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