Helpful Hints for RVers

Comment

Comment by John on November 5, 2009 at 8:26pm

Sewer Hoses that are stored in the square bumpers sometimes fall out due to the rubber end caps falling off. The best way I have found to avoid this, is to drill a hole straight down through the bumper and the rubber end cap, and place a galvanized nail through the hole to prevent the cap from falling off.

Comment by D. on November 2, 2009 at 1:08pm

I'll look into the Westfalia, John. Thanks for the suggestion. I remember they were very big a while back. Met a couple who got hold of an '89 Dodge Xplorer camper van, and they love it. Can go anywhere and stay overnight if they want. (i.e. a concert in another city).

Would it be OK if I started a discussion, here, with the topic- 'selecting a camper van'? Then all the info will be together.

Comment by John on November 1, 2009 at 2:52pm

Thanks for the nice comments. Maybe you should look for a Used Volkswagen Westfalia.

Comment by D. on November 1, 2009 at 1:09pm

If anyone is using a converted van, I sure would like to hear about your experiences pro & con. Also, if you're in the northeast US and have one to sell, please let me know. I'm in Maine and my e-mail is environmental_peace@yahoo.com

I am in the market to purchase an RV so I have something to live in while I travel to fairs to vend my artwork. I am concluding that it will be easier and more economical to start small. Saw my dream configuration last night with Sportsmobile Ford EB. Can't have anything as elaborate as that right off. But a converted van w/galley kitchen, bathroom, and bed is what I'm after.

[I still have to read the tips this site offers for selecting and RV.]

Comment by D. on November 1, 2009 at 1:04pm

Just checking in to say I joined your group. I don't have an RV, yet. But, your tips are already helpful. Thank you.

Comment by John on November 1, 2009 at 12:26pm

Another thing is whether you buy new or used, the tires need to be not only inflated to the pressure noted on the tire, but they also need to be balanced. Balancing is critical to the longevity of the tire and the bearings which need to be greased at proper intervals. And NO, new trailers, for the most part have not had their tires balanced.

Comment by John on November 1, 2009 at 12:12pm

Welcome to this Helpful Hints Group. I would like everyone to ask questions about camping, RVing, etc. that will help others especially new to the RV lifestyle, avoid some of the pitfalls some of the older campers have figured out and overcome.

I would like to start off by recommending an alternative to the expensive toilet paper that is sold in camping stores. If you use paper that states "Septic Safe" you will be fine. It will dissolve quickly after it contacts water. We have been using Angel Soft, which is also very inexpensive.

Next I want to address BLACK STREAKS on exteriors. The best and most inexpensive product I have found is Greased Lightning. Just be sure and wash it off when finished. And don't forget the clothespins on the gutters.

Next, water hoses. Most of you know to purchase the white drinking water hoses for your camper. But when you finish with them, you need to screw one end to the other to keep trash and insects from entering them.

Next are ants and insects. Keep power cords, and hoses off the ground. When you come to a campsite, spray ant killer around every part of your RV that touches the ground. Jacks, tires, stabilizers, cable etc.