RV Maintenance...Avoiding Pitfalls- Videos and Tips of Advice

     Maintaining an RV doesn't have to require a ton of money, but it does require some foresight and diligence in order to get the most out of you vehicle with the least amount of stress. Here are some things to be aware of when looking over your RV. The best time to check things over is before heading out on the road as well as before putting it in and removing it from storage. 

• Leaks- Check your seals and caulking regularly. Nothing will devastate an RV more than water damage. This includes checking the seals on the roof, around the slideouts, as well as the plumbing inside the RV. A faucet can leak underneath the sink without you noticing it until the damage has already been done.  

 Maintaining Slide Out Seals Video

• Mice- Mouse Proofing is something you may want to consider if you run the risk of having an infestion. By the time you know they're there, they have probably already done some damage. There are some humane options such as "Mouse Free" mouse proofing. This is a preventative measure that is humane. If you have pets or small children, DO NOT use a chemicals such as D-Con. They can be fatal if accidentally eaten.

Mouse Free Video 

•  Tires- This is a big one and gets easily overlooked. Always check your tire pressure. Make sure the torque is correct on your lug nuts. If not done right, it can void your warranty. Have your wheel bearings repacked periodically and make sure that your alignment is correct. "Correct Track Laser Alignment" will lessen your chance of tire blowout. Check for dry rot and wear. If possible, don't let your tires sit on grass for long periods of time. 

Laser Alignment Video 

•  Storage- Ideally, your RV should be kept indoors if possible. A barn works perfectly. Not everyone has a space available that's large enough, unfortunately. Many places offer RV and boat storage, so that's an option. If you do plan on keeping the vehicle on your property, make sure it's parked on pavement and away from overhanging trees. RV covers are available, but there are some differing opinions on having a cover. If it is windy, the cover can rub against the exterior and cause problems. Also, if moisture gets underneath, it can cause mildew issues. Regular washing and waxing will maintain the exterior sidewalls and prevent age and wear. Also, clean your roof regularly, especially when coming out of storage. This will give you a chance to look at the seals on the roof as well.
• Winterizing- Make sure you have your RV properly winterized before it gets cold enough to freeze and burst the pipes. If you do it yourself, make sure it's done according to the manufactures recommendations.

How to Winterize Your RV 

• Weight Limits- Make sure you don't overload your unit. This is especially true of Pop-ups. Too much weight inside the RV can bend the axle. You can figure out the weight you can carry by figuring out the difference between the Gross Vehicle Weight and the Dry Weight. Take into consideration the weight of the water and propane in your tanks. 

 Odds and Ends-

• Maintain your generator according to the manufacturers service recommendations, this usually includes changing the oil and fuel/air filters regularly. 
• Check your Lights. Make sure your tail and side lights are working properly.
• Use RV Safe Toilet Paper- no one wants a backed up black tank.  

 Testing RV Safe TP 

• Last but Not Least...Use your RV! Make sure you have it moving periodically. Take it to the store if you haven't gone on vacation in awhile. When a vehicle sits for too long, components become corroded. Movement will help keep your RV lubricated.

You can view more RV Instructional Videos at: www.i94rv.com/video-library.aspx

Happy Trails! 
i94RV 
www.i94rv.com 
i94RV Service Specials 

Got the RV...Check...Now Where Do I Go?

Where to Stay While on The Road
       You've got your new RV, now what? There are a few considerations when planning your RV trip. Are you going to go to one spot and stay there? Are you making multiple stops along the way? What size is your RV? What are your Hookup requirements? Are you traveling with kids or pets?
These are some questions that will help you decide where to stay while traveling. 
       There are many resources available that can help you plan out a seamless vacation. Here are a few...
        Many Walmarts allow overnight stays in your RVs but not all of them. Here is a good site to determine Walmart overnight parking restrictions and regulations.
Wal-mart Locations
      
 If you're lucky, you might even be able to find a free campground. Just make sure you check the RV size limits and whether pets are allowed.
Free Campsites
      
There are also networks of campgrounds like KOA that have many additional benefits like kid friendly activities and special discounts for members.
KOA Campgrounds

There are even apps available for your smartphone or tablet that will help you find the nearest RV park while on the road.
RV Park App for Android

One other thing to keep in mind is where you're going to dump your tanks. Here's a handy reference.
RV Dumps 

On i94RV's website there is a Free Downloadable Travel Checklist that will also help you have a trouble free vacation.
Free Travel Checklist

Where ever you go, always remember to have fun and go with the flow. It's the journey not the destination (but a super fun destination is way cool, too)
Happy Trails!
i94RV
i94rv.com

RV Traveling with Pets...Toto, Too?

       One of the great advantages of traveling by RV is being able to take your pets with you on your travels. A limited number of hotels accept pets and even if they do, they usually charge a extra fee and you can't leave them in the room unattended. RVing allows you a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend.
      If you do decided to include Fido in your travels, it's important to plan ahead so you and your pet can fully enjoy the trip.
       Before you go...things to bring with...

• Medical Records including Vaccine records (make sure they're up to date including the distemper combo for dogs . This has the lepto vax which is transmitted through raccoon and other wild animal feces/dirty puddles)
• A kennel or carrier just in case, leash
• Flea, tick and heartworm prevention (this includes cats they can get all three of these as well)
• Food, bowls, medications, treats, toys, bed etc.
• ID tag/microchip as well as a recent photo
• Brush (there's a lot of burrs out there) and extra towels
• Pet first aid kit

For a full 3 page RV Travel Checklist, go to i94rv.com

There is a button on the bottom left hand side of the page for a downloadable checklist

      

     ...do your research...

•  Not all campgrounds are pet friendly. Make sure you check ahead to see what the regulations are at your planned stops on the trip. Here's a good site for checking National Park Policies http://takeyourpet.com/national-park-pet-policies/national-parks-by-state
•  Know where the closest vet hospital is and check their reputation for emergency situations
•  Go for short rides with you pet prior to the "big trip" Many animals get motion sickness like people do. If your pet vomits in the car or looks "green", talk to your vet. They might be able to recommend something that will help them out when traveling. It also helps if they travel on an empty stomach when possible.

     ...while on the road...

•  Consider restraining your pet while moving. In case of a sudden stop, you don't want your pet to get injured.
• Make sure you stop often to give your dog a chance to stretch and go potty.
• Obey the rules of where you stay. Pick up after your pet and only let them go potty in designated areas. 
•  Follow the leash laws. If your dog is allowed to be off leash, keep them within eyesight. There are things dogs love to eat that they shouldn't (salmon corpses can be deadly, for example) Wild animals can cause injury or death if provoked. If they can't be kept with eyesight, they shouldn't be off leash.
•  Don't let your dog bark nonstop. It's not fair to the other campers that don't love your little pumpkin the way you do. If this has become their habit, try to give them something else to do. There are many options out there for treat filled toys, puzzle squeeky toys and rawhide (USA made only) that will keep a dog busy for a long time. 
•  Never leave your pet in the RV without heat or A/C. A pet can overheat within minutes causing a life or death situation. Putting a radio or TV on while your gone can prevent your pooch from barking at strange noises outside.
• Have a sign on the outside of your vehicle that says "dog/cat inside" so people know before they open the door there is a critter inside.

Let us know if you have any other recommendations for staying safe with your pet on the road. If you have a story to tell, feel free to share!
Happy Trails!
i94RV
i94rv.com

I Love the Outdoors, But Hate Waking Up Cold! Getting into RVing...

So Many to Choose!

       So you'd like to get out of the tent while camping, but not sure how to take the next step? There are a few things to consider...Do you have a tow vehicle? How much will it pull? How many people do you want to sleep? Would you consider a motorized RV?  
     Firstly, If you are planning on towing a camper, it is crucial to make sure you are not going to harm your vehicle by pulling more than it can handle. You want to compare an RV's dry weight (without water) plus an extra few hundred pounds for cargo with the tow rating of your vehicle. The tow ratings can be found in the vehicles owner's manual. Websites are also available that can help with this. tow ratings website 

Pop Up in Towing Position

      Many times, the next step from tent camping is the pop up camper. These campers are usually lightweight, inexpensive, may or may not have a bathroom, heat or A/C and can sometimes be towed by minivans or smaller vehicles.  They are a step up from tent camping, but do have some limitations.They can be tedious to set up and break down as well as mildew prone if they are folded up while wet. Some of the larger ones having a toilet area as well as a furnace and A/C. These things do add some weight, so keep that in

Pop Up in Camping Position

mind. Weights for pop up campers range from 1000-4000lbs. 

Expandable Camper

      A similar option is the expandable or hybrid trailer. This is a nice lightweight option that gives more room inside at a smaller footprint than a standard trailer. Dry Weights Range from low 3000-5000 lbs. The nice thing about a hybrid is they have 

Expandable Inside

   a bathroom, A/C, heat and aren't as difficult to set up.      If you can pull it and afford it, you'll probably keep a camper of this type longer than you would a pop up.
         Next, there are the Lightweight small travel trailers. There are some cute teardrop designs available like the R-Pod by Forest River. Many times the weight might be the same as an expandable, but have a smaller sleeping capacity. Bunkhouse Travel Trailers are great for families. What kid doesn't like to sleep on bunk beds? There are many sizes and floorplans available in this department. Keep in mind that almost all sofas and dinettes fold down into beds so there are hidden sleeping areas if you're willing to do some rearranging.

Forest River R-Pod

          What if you don't have a tow vehicle? There are a few options. You can still consider a trailer and have it dropped off at a permanent campsite (we'll do this for our customers if it's within a certain distance) or you can look into a motorized RV. The nice thing about this option is you can pick up and go! You may want to tow a smaller vehicle or bring a motorcycle so you don't have to worry about breaking down camp to go to the store. 
            Whichever way you choose to go, you can't beat the experience and satisfaction of spending quality time with those you love while enjoying the great outdoors and open road.
Happy Trails from i94RV!
www.i94rv.com