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.
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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. (more…)
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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Being a used RV and Camper salesman has enabled me to learn from some of the best RV businessmen in the business and develop skills on how to find cheap RVs and sell them at a profit.
As most of my shrewd business associates would tell you, “you make your money when you buy and not when you sell.” If you can find buy repo campers for 50 to 80% below retail, there is no reason why you can’t make a nice profit regardless of how the economy is doing. Buying an RV Camper at auction allows you to pay less for it. The purpose of this article is to show you how to get the best deals.
Most camper and RV Repo auctions occur on a semi-repetitive cycle. The key is to find out where and how often. The fastest way to find out is to ask local RV camper dealers who buy RVs at auction where these auctions take place. If you want to get a get deal, but don’t want to do any of the work, you might be able to ask a dealer to find a specific type of RV camper for a small finder’s fee.
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It’s official, most of us have actually started to see some real sunshine and summer time is just round the corner. For those of you have had your RV tucked away safe and snug over the winter months it’s time to dust it off and get back out on the road. There are a few things you might want to check over first though:
Check & clean it
Give it a thorough check, both inside and out.
Give the roof a close inspection, especially if it’s spent the winter months braving the elements, clear any leaves and make sure there are no leaks or weak spots. It’s better to spot them now rather than in the middle of an April shower or a summer thunderstorm.
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If you love to take the RV or camper out on road trips, then RV solar power is probably for you. Heading out in the RV is a joy shared by millions of people, but far too few are utilizing solar energy as a source of power for their campers. Here are three good reasons you should consider solar power for your RV.
1) Freedom from the grid and campsites.
You don’t want to run the electric components in your RV for too long with the engine off, or you risk running your battery dry. The sites have outlets you can jack into to keep things running, but why be dependent on the sites? Implementing solar panels for your RV means you’ll be able to generate electricity for your RV’s appliances anywhere the sun shines, so you can pull over any time you want and not have to worry about a thing.
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Going green and renewable energy are the buzz words of the day. Nearly everyone is conscious that we need to curb our massive energy appetite and start conserving. What’s not as clear is just how to do that. Often the green energy alternatives are expensive and complicated. Well this isn’t true for RV Solar Panels. Here’s five cool things about them and why they might be perfect for your ‘home away from home’.
1. Not As Expensive As You Think
Most systems can be had for less $800 and there are some systems that are as little as $200. They are widely available at camping stores and websites, where you can find some of the best deals. And when you factor in the money you will save on fuel for your generator, the panels will usually pay for themselves in less than a couple years. Plus, the prices on solar panels have been falling dramatically lately. Many panels have fallen by 20%, and the trend should continue. And, hey, money is green right?
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Everyone loves a great deal. For the true bargain hunter, it’s almost like a mission. They search high and low to find the very best price on the items they need. Some people, however, don’t have the time to spend on hours of research. They would rather have the information gathered for them. If you’re looking for used fifth wheel RV and you won’t buy one until you find the best price, then here’s some information to help you!
Repossessions
Repossessed RV’s are sold for dimes on the dollar. The finance companies do not want to pay for storage and many are simply hoping to recoup some of their investment. While some are damaged, many are in great condition, as many people lose their RV’s within just a few months after purchase.
Seizures and Surplus
The federal, state, and local government agencies all seize property for a variety of reasons. Some are for criminal activity, while others are for back taxes. After a specified period of time, these items, including RV’s are sold at auction to the highest bidder. Many will also sell repossessed RV’s, which is where the dealers often find stock.
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