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RE: Holiday Rambler anyone?
Hahaha, this man asks for thoughts on one particular brand of coach. He makes it very clear he’s already decided on a gas coach….And yet still, some can’t help but make it into a gas vs diesel thing right off the bat.
We really need to try harder to focus on answering the question being asked, and quit hijacking threads to the same age old debates.
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willald
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05/13/23 08:05pm |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Is there any REAL quality out there?
Winnebago officially acquired Newmar in November of 2019. They are built in Nappanee Indiana.
That means Amish guys running around being paid by the piece slapping it together as fast as they can. If you've seen the factories, it's nuts. I guess I just don't want to drop 100k of hard earned money on something somebody else slaps together... Sorry not trying to insult others or anything.
So "older" Newmar coaches were built where? Would be interesting if they were built in a quality factory.
That's correct... plus , for the most part, working there is a "part time" job, their full time job is on the farm , which they head to in the early afternoon.
Well, if thats the case and you want to avoid anything built in Indiana by Amish folks......You can cross off probably 95% of the RV manufacturers off your list, and plan on shelling out obscene amounts of $$ for something like a Prevost, Foretravel, or some other bus conversion company.
I guess thats the answer to the OP's question - Yes, there is real quality, but you better have very, very deep pockets if you must have it.
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willald
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04/27/23 02:17pm |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: 38 gallon honey wagon?
I have the Barker 42 gallon tote tank being discussed here. We bring it whenever we know we will be camping without a sewer hookup, which is usually 1 or 2 trips a year.
It will work perfectly for what you want to do. Main downside to it is, like already said, finding a place to store it when on the road, and when not using it.
I wrap ours in a large black trash bag and put it in the back of the Jeep we tow. It fits, but barely. Still trying to find a better way to store it. One day we may try mounting it to the rear ladder like was shown on here a few posts ago, just not sure if I can bring myself to trust the ladder for carrying something like that when on the road.
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willald
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04/26/23 08:06am |
General RVing Issues
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RE: Is there any REAL quality out there?
Winnebago officially acquired Newmar in November of 2019. They are built in Nappanee Indiana.
That means Amish guys running around being paid by the piece slapping it together as fast as they can. If you've seen the factories, it's nuts. I guess I just don't want to drop 100k of hard earned money on something somebody else slaps together... Sorry not trying to insult others or anything.
I understand your point, as there are a lot of manufacturers around that fit this description well, that produce some cheaply built rigs.
However, I think you are painting with an awfully wide brush, to say that *all* manufacturers in Indiana are like this.
Specifically with regards to Newmar, they have a reputation for building really good quality in all their units. They are just about as good as it gets without shelling out tons more $$ for a Prevost or Foretravel.
I would not classify them as 'Amish guys running around being paid by the piece slapping it together as fast as they can'. At least, not without doing a factory tour with them and seeing for myself. Our Newmar has been rock solid since day one, is the best coach I've ever owned. And nearly everyone I've spoken to that owns a Newmar says pretty much the same thing about theirs.
I definitely can relate to your point, though, about not wanting to spend $100k on something thats going to be cheap and shoddy. I wouldn't either, but I would not give up on finding something good quality in your price range. As others have said, they are out there, you just have to be patient and look, and go in knowing that things are going to break and need fixing even on the most expensive units. When you take what is essentially a house and drive it down the road and expose it to all the bumps, etc. of the road...Things are going to break and need fixing now and then, no matter how well its built originally. That just goes with the territory of owning an RV.
It was just a few years ago, I myself swore I'd never spend 100k on any depreciating asset like an RV no matter what. Hahahahaha, man, I sure ended up eating those words! After going through numerous major life changes that made me see things very differently, ended up buying the Newmar we have now that definitely passed the 100k mark.
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willald
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04/25/23 10:23am |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Towing a Honda CRV one time - NC to Maine
Glad you had a good trip and let everyone know how it went We went to Myrtle Beach a couple of weeks back and it was 40 one night. Hope you took a coat up there.
Oh, we knew it would be chilly up here, so yes, everyone brought their coats and warm clothes. Its not been too awful bad, though. Today, right now, it is 50 degrees here. At night it gets down to upper 30s.
Bigger problem has been, since we're here right in the middle of Maine's mud season after all the snow has melted, we could not take the RV down the narrow, steep, dirt (muddy!) road going down to the lake house here. Was afraid RV would get stuck if I tried. Had to leave it parked at the top of the road. Fortunately, mom and dad have very nice neighbors that have plenty of land and solid ground at top of the hill, that let us park the RV there for the week while we are up here. Tomorrow, we will start heading back home to NC.
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willald
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04/20/23 12:56pm |
Dinghy Towing
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RE: Towing a Honda CRV one time - NC to Maine
Update, conclusion: Well, we made the trip last weekend. All went well, we are in Maine now, at in-law's lake house. It is a bit chilly up here, but nice. We are having a great time up here.
Towing their car up here on the dolly went great, and pretty much flawless (except for all the rain we drove through, haha). It actually seemed like their CRV was slightly easier to tow than our Jeep we normally tow. I guess, it was less rolling resistance and better aerodynamics.
Uhaul got us an almost new dolly with surge brakes, so that worked great. The rig braked really well. Only bad thing was, they had NOBODY to help us when we picked up the dolly, so we had to do pretty much everything ourselves (wrestle the dolly over in back of motorhome, hitch it up, put the car on, straps, chains, etc).
Seemed like Mom and Dad really enjoyed the trip up with us, too. We took 3 days, nights to get up here, camped at campgrounds two nights, and boondocked at Kohl's parking lot the last night (since it seems no campgrounds were open this far north, before May). I think we blew Dad's mind, with how modern RVs work (he used to have an RV trailer many, many years ago, this was his first time in an RV since then, and first time in a Motorhome).
Anyway, guess this is one you can chalk up to, sometimes you just need to stop worrying about all the minor, petty stuff, get out there and enjoy life. We've had an awesome trip, and this is the farthest we've taken the rig so far.
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willald
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04/20/23 08:41am |
Dinghy Towing
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RE: Oil changes
Change it myself, as I've done with every vehicle I've ever owned.
How to get rid of 18 quarts of oil? Geez, issues like that remind me of yet one more reason I prefer my gasser MH, and the fact it only uses 8 quarts of oil for changes. Which, easily goes in the portable oil container I use for all oil changes. Very easy to carry it to the auto parts store when going there for other things and dump the oil there (most take/recycle it for free).
Given how difficult I've found it to get ANY kind of RV related service done, I cannot imagine how difficult it would be if you had to rely on a shop to do all your oil changes. Mobile mechanic would be the way to go, if you could find a good one that would do it.
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willald
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03/29/23 01:50pm |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Driver’s license for DPs
Yes, every state is different. I know in NC, anything over 26,001 lbs GCWR, you are technically supposed to have a non-CDL class B.
However, I have learned over the years that not many people that own DPs actually go and get that B license, and most law enforcement officers either do not know about this license requirement, or do not care.
I have a friend I have known for almost 20 years in the RV sales business. A few years ago, I asked him about this issue with licensing, and larger Motorhomes. He and his dealership sells tons of DPs, and have for many years.
He told me that although they are required by law to inform customers buying DPs of the license rules (and they do)...None of his customers ever have got the upgraded license. Nor have any ever had a problem, that he knows of.
Furthermore, he told me how he and other sales reps he works with drive the big DPs all over the state to various RV shows his dealership is in. None of the sales reps have a B license. And, yes, he has been stopped a couple of times, and law enforcement officers always either don't know or don't care about this issue, as nobody has been cited for it that he knows of.
At any rate, I am not advocating anybody ignore the law about this. Just wanted to point out that in some cases, laws like this are not enforced or noticed much.
This is actually one of the reasons I prefer gasser Motorhomes that stay under that 26k limit. I would definitely not want to have to get a special license to drive our RV (even if the law doesn't enforce such).
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willald
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03/09/23 09:17am |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Power Steps Not Working
Doug is exactly right. My last coach, the power steps motor went out and had to be replaced two different times.
Something about electric motors out exposed to the elements like that, with time they just wear out. On last coach, I replaced the step motor twice, the awning motor, and hydraulic jack motor over the course of about 10 years owning that rig. Never had any trouble with motors that were inside, protected from the elements.
You might get lucky and find its something jammed up, or the door sensor, but I'm betting its the motor. They aren't that expensive, and you can replace it yourself (I did both times). Can be a challenge getting new motor lined up and all those spacers in place, but it is doable.
Oh, and yes, be very careful when working with those steps, like already said. They can take a finger off if you aren't careful.
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willald
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02/28/23 07:05am |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Pets left alone in RV at campground?
As so many have already said, this is one of those rules that campgrounds put in place so they can enforce such when they need to for a dog/owner that becomes a problem. However, in most cases, for responsible owners and well behaved dogs, they look the other way and really do not care. Same thing with the rules about alcohol, and firearms in campgrounds.
Its a little like the fireworks laws in North Carolina, too. Not illegal to buy or own, but technically, illegal to let off. However, police look the other way and do not care at all how big a fireworks you buy elsewhere and let off here in NC. They will almost never cite someone for such unless they cause a bigger problem (neighbors complaining, property damage, etc.)
You'll find also that people's opinion about how strictly one should adhere to rules like this, is very dependent on their situation and their preferences. It is easy for someone to 'preach' that nobody should ever leave a dog unattended inside an RV, ever, when that person doesn't own any pets and/or doesn't like hearing them or seeing them. Or, if they are the type that always prefers to leave their pets at home, regardless, for whatever reason. People's personal preferences for their own life always seems to impact their opinions on just what rules should be 100% enforced and which can be bent a little. Funny how that works.
For me personally.... We bring our dog (Aussie Shepherd mix) with us almost every time we go camping. And, yes, she stays in our camper by herself when we go out to places we can't bring her easily. She is not a barker, almost never barks, ever, unless she has a very good reason to (like when she really needs to go out to do her business and we take too long to get her out). She is very quiet and is perfectly fine staying by herself in our camper. You would never know there even is a dog in our camper when we are out unless you climbed up and peaked in a window (and even then, since we normally have shades pulled and she is so quiet when we are gone, you still probably couldn't tell). Soo, yes, she stays in our camper by herself quite frequently, and we've never had an issue.
I agree, that its not a good idea to tell total newcomers that it is OK to ignore this rule. You definitely should know what the rules are regarding this at the campgrounds you stay at, and should seriously consider making other arrangements if your dog is not one that can be calm, quiet when alone in your camper. Like so many other things, its about respecting those around you, that may or may not be OK with hearing your dog bark all the time.s
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willald
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02/27/23 02:17pm |
General RVing Issues
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RE: Is there such a thing a decent valve extender?
I used the Borg Dually (one piece) valves on our previous coach. They worked OK, but two of them would always have a very, very slow leak that we could never figure out. It was a slow enough leak, was not a real problem, was just annoying to have to keep putting air in every so often,
Eventually, I switched to using braided extensions and the problem went away. The trick is you have to find ones that are AIRLESS. Meaning, there is no air pressure in them normally, so it doesn't matter if they work loose, you will not lose any air. Only time there is any air pressure in them is when you put a gauge or air compressor on them and press on the Schrader valve.
Have been using those extensions for many years, on two different coaches. Have never had a problem with them, yet.
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willald
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02/24/23 02:18pm |
General RVing Issues
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RE: Generation X
Will,
Thanks.
Do you have a name for the spray?
here’s the mouse spray repellent I use
here’s the rodent powder repellant I spread on the ground as well
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willald
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02/22/23 06:04pm |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Generation X
Can't offer much advice in terms of what generator to replace it with or whether you should, but....As one thats also dealt with critter damage, I can offer you some insight on how we solved that problem.
We had critters crawl up onto the engine on our last Motorhome, a 36' Georgetown, and chewed up the fuel line. Smelled fuel really strong when cranked it up, so took off doghouse, and gasoline was shooting straight up like a geyser! Main fuel line had to be replaced. Found evidence several places inside of mice as well.
Was quite a challenge getting that fixed, because we could not even crank the engine without it being a huge fire risk, so it wasn't moving under its own power. Because of how it sits at the end of our long, narrow driveway, getting it towed would not be easy. Eventually, I found a mobile mechanic that came out and replaced the fuel line.
After that happened, I bought some mice repellant spray from Lowe's, and every few weeeks I spray that all around the Motorhome. I also spread rodent repellant powder (also bought from Lowe's) all around it to ward off other critters. Typically buy 3 or 4 cans of each of those a year, which is not cheap, but its a LOT cheaper than fixing the damage them critters can do!
Have not had a critter problem since.
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willald
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02/22/23 08:02am |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Potential purchase of MH
Willaild, the representative from the trucking company did indicate the had the unit on their property and indicated they had inspected it for obvious damage and that there was none. They of course indicated this was “normal” business for them but I just could not get over the fact of basically buying something sight unseen even with the “confirmed” right to return it within 5 days.
One additional update. I have offered to fly out, inspect the unit during the 5 day right of refusal and then drive it back to NC myself if it all checks out. Will be interesting to see if I get a response.
Thanks for the clarification. Well, if this is a scam, its a pretty dang elaborate one, haha.
Depending on the terms of the escrow, and just who holds the $$ and how that 5 day right of refusal is spelled out....It just might be worth your while to make the trip out there and look at it, if they agree to such.
Is it possible for you to fly out and look at it *BEFORE* any $$ is tied up in an escrow? I'd do that if you can. That way if you find out it is junk or a scam, you're not out anything but the plane ticket, and you can make that into a fun vacation. :)
If it is legitimate, then they should have no problem with your offer there.
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willald
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02/22/23 07:52am |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Pet Boarding when visiting Disneyland
Wow, I didn't even realize they had a Kennel for dogs. So many hotels now allow dogs, I'd think most people would just leave their dog in their room during the day when out at the parks.
For whatever reason, our dog (Aussie Shepherd) hardly ever barks, she is very quiet almost all the time. Only time she barks is when she gets really, really worked up, or has a really good reason to bark (like when telling us she needs to go out, haha). Since she is so quiet, we have no problem leaving her in the RV when we are out, and she is fine.
I can see how Disney taking away the kennels, makes it really difficult for a lot of dog owners. Sounds like a good opportunity for someone to open up a dog sitting business around Orlando. :)
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willald
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02/22/23 07:43am |
General RVing Issues
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RE: No place to camp in Florida
Yep, we face this challenge, too. We like to camp near Sarasota, FL in January every year to visit family.
Have tried several times to get into Oscar Scherer state park down there, but pretty much gave up. It is dang near impossible to get a site there in January. Have literally waited until the minute sites become available (11 months in advance). Literally, the split second they become available, they all book up before I can click 'reserve'. Its as if the system is rigged somehow.
We've had better luck with private parks, although they are more expensive. Typically, we stay at the KOA in Bradenton, its pretty nice.
That one, we only have to book it 6 months in advance instead of a year, hahaha.
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willald
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02/22/23 07:26am |
RV Lifestyle
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RE: Potential purchase of MH
Thanks for all the feedback. To give you the outcome, I followed up on the company and they actually do exist. They are registered with the Oregon Secretary of State. Called and talked with someone at the company ( as far as I know). Also verified with my attorney contact that this a legitimate way to transact business, but as he said for every honest deal there are 99 scams.
Ultimately I offered to use an irrevocable letter of credit through my bank which guaranteed the bank would obligated to pay if the terms of the agreement were met. When the seller declined that offer we walked away.
Again, appreciate the feedback.
Good job. I'm curious, when you talked to the company, did they acknowledge that the unit you were looking at, indeed did exist and they were selling it?
Reason I ask is, I've seen where some scammers will pretend to be an actual company that does exist, and use that company's name to make the deal seem legit. My son almost fell for a scam like that a couple years ago.
Wondering if this was a scam, and they were pretending to be this company and really were just another bunch of scammers. I guess doesn't really matter now.
Anyway, good luck with your search. :)
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willald
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02/22/23 07:16am |
Class A Motorhomes
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RE: Towing a Honda CRV one time - NC to Maine
Quick note, to the best of my knowledge all four wheels need to be off the ground if towing that year CRV. After 2014 non can be towed flat.
Dolly would not meet that requirement.
We really, really all need to do a better job of researching things before throwing out advice on here. Otherwise you risk posting misinformation like this, and that makes this whole forum look.....Wellllll, like not a very good place to go for advice.
A front wheel drive 2018 CRV most certainly CAN be towed on a dolly just fine. And, that comes straight from the Honda dealer, who looked it up in the manual.
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willald
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02/13/23 12:34pm |
Dinghy Towing
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RE: Toad Battery Charger
...None the less when towing between LA and Albuquerque at the end of day 2 (Albuquerque) the Honda batters is completely dead.
Just saw this where you said day 2, and it made me wonder about one other possibility:
Are you traveling for 2 days, maybe boondocking one night or stopping for a few hours at one point, and leaving the Honda hitched up to MH during that time? Do you have to leave the Honda ignition in ON or ACC while towing?
If that is the case, you may have a situation like I had on the Ford Taurus and Ford Fusion hybrid I used to tow: When towing, the towed vehicle's ignition had to stay on, in ACC position. This would drain the battery over course of a few hours, which is why I had to install a charge line when towing.
Any time we stopped for more than an hour or so, I'd have to go in the towed vehicle and shut the ignition off and put it in park to keep battery from draining. Then, before we'd hit the road, turn ignition back on and shift tranny back into neutral.
If I didn't do that, battery would run down after a while even with a charge line. That is because when MH ignition shuts off, in most cases after a short time, power to that charge line will shut off and no more charge going to your towed vehicle.
Anyway, just thought I'd mention this as one other possibility.
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willald
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02/09/23 08:23am |
Dinghy Towing
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RE: Toad Battery Charger
Testing voltage is great.... however next shop have them measure the amps. Need to load the Honda battery with the lights or something. Should see 10+ amps flowing from the RV to the car. Even 1 amp into a charged battery will show full voltage. If the shop does not have a clamp-on ammeter they need to get one or find a new shop.
Then put in towing mode and see what load is actually on the car battery to power the brakes etc.
This is an excellent point I hadn't thought about.
What gauge of wire are you using for the charge line and the ground wire going between MH and the towed? Both would need to be at least 14 or 16 gauge, I'd think, to allow sufficient amperage to keep the battery charged. Also, what amperage is the fuse you have on the charge line?
Maybe this is a case where you are taking power (amps) away from the Honda's battery faster than charge line from MH can replace it.
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willald
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02/09/23 08:06am |
Dinghy Towing
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