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Exclusive Interview with Jeff Hanemaayer about the Roadtrek N6 Active

2012-02-14T14:24:00.003-05:00

2012 Roadtrek N6 Active

Since we first posted about the Roadtrek N6 Active when we were at the RVIA show in Louisville Kentucky, you have made it one of our most popular blog posts. With the tremendous interest in this new RV, we decided to contact Roadtrek to see if we could get an exclusive interview with them to provide our readers with some inside information about the Roadtrek N6 Active. We consider this type of thing to be a part of the Plus in RV-Parts Plus.

The following are a series of 5 questions that we asked the Co-Chairman of Roadtrek Motorhomes Inc. Jeff Hanemaayer.

2012 Roadtrek N6 Active front quad captains chairs and table

RV-Parts Plus: The Roadtrek N6 Active has really taken off on our blog since we first posted about it while at the RVIA show in Louisville Kentucky. Can you talk to us about where you see the N6 Active fitting in to your line-up, and who you see as the target market for this type of RV?

Jeff Hanemaayer: The N6 is very different than anything else that we (or anyone else) has produced. Our other models are fully-equipped class B motorhomes that can be used as a second vehicle (or at least all but our largest models). The emphasis is on the capabilities as motorhome, the ease of driving/parking while used as such and less on the convenience of using as a 2nd vehicle. Although small families do buy our other models, the far majority of our buyers are retired or soon-to-be retired empty nester couples (and some singles, especially women who have lost their spouse but still want to RV).

The N6 still qualifies as a class B motorhome from an income tax perspective but it does not have a toilet or stove. That's because it's primarily intended to be a daily-use 2nd vehicle for a family that would otherwise own a large passenger vehicle such as a full-size SUV, large crossover, minivan or conversion van. When you review the N6 on our website you'll see the features that we have provided to make the N6 a great alternative to these vehicles for active families.

2012 Roadtrek N6 Active (rear quarter, top up)

RVPP: Two unique features of this RV are the Pop-Up top, and the Nissan Chassis. Can you tell us what you like about the Nissan Chassis, and why you've chosen to use a Pop-Up top which differs from every other RV in the RoadTrek line?

JH: The Nissan NV van is the newest full-size van so it incorporates the latest improvements, especially in interior ergonomics. See http://www.nissancommercialvehicles.com/nv. Plus the Nissan brand offers an "import" brand alternative to a Chevy Express van, the other platform we considered for this model. (It's still assembled in the U.S.) We decided to go with the pop-up roof to keep the overall height down when used as a daily driver. This improves appearance, fuel economy and handling while allowing the van to be parked in a garage with an 8 foot door.

RVPP: Talk to us about the pricing of the N6 Active. Is this a price point that you needed to hit? Is this a sign of the changes in the RV industry over the past couple of years?

JH: We needed to keep the price down to appeal to families with kids at home who are middle class and up.

RVPP: Do you have sales projections for this type of RV? Do you expect this to be a dominant player in your line of RV's or is this more of a niche vehicle that will compliment your more traditional Class B motorhomes?

JH: We do have sales projections but it's really hard to forecast how well the product will do. With 2010 US sales of 290K full-size SUVs and 260K mid-size SUVs and large crossover (at least 200" long), there is a large pool of potential buyers out there even though it obviously won't appeal to everyone.

RVPP: When can our readers expect to see the N6 Active at their local dealers?

JH: 5. We started shipping already. They're already at more than 15 dealers.

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Roadtrek N6 Active Quick Facts:
Retail Price: $67,000 U.S. (approx.)
Sleeping Capacity: 4 + 1 -- Lower Double Bed, Upper Queen Bed, Optional Captain's chairs mattress
Notable Amenities: Sink, Microwave, 12 Volt Fridge, Shower head (for exterior use, but mounted inside) Nissan NV Commercial Van Chassis, 9000 lb Towing capacity.

Website: http://www.roadtrek.com/n6_active_features.aspx

If you have more questions about the Roadtrek N6 Active, let us know on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RVpartsPlus and we'll follow up with Jeff as he's allowed us to follow up with him if you have questions.

If you haven't stopped by our website, check it out. We're working on launching an entirely new website soon, which will include all of our products, and many more features just like this interview. Visit us at www.rv-partsplus.com and bookmark us or save us to your favorites!

Click pictures below to enlarge

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FMCA Rally, Brooksville FL. -- An Airstrip full of Motorhomes!

2012-02-13T17:23:00.000-05:00

FMCA Rally Brooksville Florida - 2012

It is quite a sight to see about 1,300 motorhomes arranged on and around a local county airport. Such was the case at the South East Area, Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) Rally held each year at the Hernando County Airport just outside of Brooksville, FL. Many of the RVs were parked on the tarmac in rows side by side for almost a mile. Others were on the aprons and others were along the sides of the tarmac on the grassed areas. Events were held in large tents fully enclosed with fixed entry doors and lighting which were setup in various locations on the runways. For the true air enthusiast there still was a runway open which added to the adventure as a low flying plane came in for a landing or gained speed to take off. Many of the RVers were “dry camped” which means they were self-sufficient using water they carried and kept all waste in their own holding tanks for the duration of the rally. Electricity was supplied by their battery systems and onboard generators. Others were in sections of the Rally which had “miles” of wire run with outlet boxes at regular intervals connected to large “portable” generators which provided the power needs of the coaches connected to them. All other facilities are onboard. Similar generators provided power for the entertainment, vendor and seminar facilities.

Events ranged from early morning, prayer and worship sessions, to partaking of free donuts and coffee or listening to music provided by the Frustrated Maestros, to seminars on travel and RV interests. Some seminars featured new products, others taught about RV maintenance and care to general interest topics and others featured camp resort options. The vendor tent had displays for those attending the rally to walk through allowing them to stop and talk, ask questions and gain information on topics of interest to them. There were vendors with outdoor booths set up around the outside of the tent with larger products and the ever present installers are onsite to install products offered for sale.

Each evening there was a live entertainment offered in the special events tent and there was always a variety of activities spread around the Rally facility throughout the day. Some RVers took in attractions found in the area around the Rally location, taking advantage of specials offered by many of the local merchants to Rally goers. Of course the various restaurants in the area were blessed by the RVer’s presence. Conversations often centered around which restaurant to attend tonight based on the recommendations of those that went the previous evening. For those that stayed at the Rally for evening meals there are local chapter events and impromptu gatherings of friends new and old who setup their chairs and a few tables and had a pot luck dinner. The variety and amount of food found at these gatherings often rivalled some buffet selections at restaurants. All in all the sharing of ideas, travel experiences and growing friendships endure and some choose to travel together, when there is common interests and many develop long lasting friendships after meeting at these Rallies.

I recommend joining FMCA and then taking in one of the local area Rallies. Meeting others that share the lifestyle is a great way to expand your horizons and add to the enjoyment that is RVing.

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We're on Facebook. Like us!

2012-02-03T09:38:00.001-05:00

Now that approximately 1 in 7 people in the world are on Facebook, and about half of all internet users, we decided that we should create a presence there as well. We've been online since 2001, delivering Motorhome and RV users top quality products, information, and technical tips since that time. We're in the process of launching a completely new website filled with information, pictures, video's and more to help our users get the most out of their RV's. The new website will allow us to get information up instantly, and will no longer be a "static" site. If you have questions about products, or maintenance questions, or even just general RV questions, we'll be addressing them from our Website, this blog, and of course our new Facebook page.

We think that Facebook is going to be a great way for us to share information with you, and we hope that you feel free to interact with us there.

RV-Parts Plus is home to the RVing FuseSwitch™and we'll be filling our Facebook page with great information about that product and more.

So if you're on Facebook, (and almost half of you are) go to www.facebook.com/rvpartsplus and like us!

Thanks!

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Is a Ford Transit based RV in your future?

2012-01-08T23:14:00.001-05:00

European Ford Transit based Motorhome

Ford recently announced that they were planning to produce the small Transit van chassis in Kansas City, MO. It was also reported that some RV manufacturers are considering utilizing this van chassis as the basis for a new smaller line-up of Class C motorhomes.

European Ford Transit based Motorhome - Entrance door

While in Florida I came upon a German RV made by Hymer which is based on the Ford Transit chassis. It includes ABS brakes, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Program and a Driver Side Airbag. The overall width is 2.14M or 7 feet wide and about (5.98m) or 20 feet long. That is a small footprint and yet the coach is “roomy”. It is an impressive vehicle with a large under bed storage compartment (known as a rear garage) accessible from the outside at the rear of the RV. It is compact however it is a stylish rendition with good use of glass to open up the interior. It has sleeping accommodation for two with three more berths optional. Many of the amenities we expect are included however the Toilet is a cassette type common on European RV’s. Have a look at these photos and see if you would be satisfied with a RV that looks like this one. I’ m pretty certain there will be a market for them---- do you agree?

European Ford Transit based motorhome - Rear

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2011-12-31T11:43:00.000-05:00

Energy For You - Fuel Cell Generator

2011-12-28T13:37:00.001-05:00

Energy For You (EFoY) Fuel Cell Generator

One of the interesting and innovative exhibits at the RVIA National Trade Show was the EFOY (Energy For You) exhibit. They demonstrated a compact Fuel Cell Generator that is lightweight, almost maintenance free and relatively simple to install. This power source is capable of providing power to charge 12V or 24 Volt batteries which, with the installation of a properly sized inverter could produce 120VAC to power TV’s, entertainment systems and Microwave ovens among other electrical equipment found on the typical RV. The fuel source is a “Fuel Cell Cartridge” which is a storage container (various sizes are available) filled with liquid methanol (see photo). The typical Fuel Cell Generator weighs just 16.5lbs or 7.5kgs. The EFOY unit is quiet and emission free and the Fuel Cartridge is one of the safest, cleanest and most comfortable ways of handling fuel. The 10L (2.64 Gallon) Fuel Cell looks like a robust windshield antifreeze container and comes equipped with a special safety valve which is connected by a fuel line hose to the generator. Reportedly this cell can provide 2 to 3 weeks of power in a dry camp RV setting.

This power source would ideal for all RV’s especially smaller Class B and C rigs, together with all trailers equipped with a 12volt battery, especially where physical size, weight and fuel handling is a concern. If the RV is used in National Parks, then this EFOY Generator will not create any objectionable noise and can be used around the clock without restriction. If utilized in conjunction with solar panels or wind generators it can fill in for periods when there is no sun or wind, providing a consistent power source. It would also provide backup power for larger RV’s which require batteries to power onboard engine management and various additional computers even with battery disconnects turned off. A remote display panel provides the information necessary to manage the system and the associated batteries. Installation is simple and if the RV is already equipped with an Inverter, 120VAC is readily available. If not then a suitable sized inverter will also need to be installed.

There have been over 15,000 Fuel Cell Generators installed in RV’s (primarily in Europe) and surveys of owners overwhelmingly recommend this system. Check out this alternative power source and watch for it to appear in North America as an alternative to the gasoline powered generator on RV’s.
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2011-12-23T16:54:00.000-05:00

2013 Bounder Classic Diesel

2011-12-23T11:20:00.001-05:00

2013 Bounder Classic Diesel 36R

I attended the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) National Trade Show in late November. During the show Fleetwood introduced the 2013 Bounder Classic Diesel in 34B and 36R floor plans. All are triple slide versions and the36R choice includes a rear bath version with a ½ bath mid coach. After an absence of three years Bounder buyers can choose once again their favorite Bounder in a diesel version. This coach reminds me of the gas powered rigs with a center door entry and true Bounder diesel decals placed all around the coach just as they were on Bounders a decade ago. The angled Bounder name with the jumping kangaroo tells everyone within sight that this is a Bounder.

The transformation begins with a new sturdy Freightliner MC chassis equipped with air brakes and air ride suspension with the Fleetwood Power Platform ®. The Cummins ISB 6.7L engine is at the front and delivers a flat floor between the driver and passenger. The diesel engine is so well insulated that reportedly the sound running down the road is actually less than a comparable gas rig. Power flows through an Allison MH1000 6 speed transmission to the rear axle. With three interior decors and two cabinetry choices you can build a coach to fit your taste. The coach is impressive with just enough new features to make you drool and enough Bounder features to truly let the Bounder faithful claim that it is a Bounder with value for the money. Walking through the coach I thought the quality was very good and there are many small features that we’ve come to expect in a Bounder.

Base pricing is a competitive $165,340 MSRP. For more information visit the official Bounder Diesel Website by clicking here.

2013 Bounder Classic Diesel 34B Floorplan

2013 Bounder Classic Diesel 36R Floorplan

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What makes a motorhome a luxury model?

2011-12-23T10:52:00.000-05:00

What makes a motorhome, a luxury model?

When that question is asked, we tend to immediately delve into the look or feel items: Is it the sheer size of the coach, the superb paint treatment or the expansive interior with high quality leather furnishings, porcelain tile, lots of beautiful hardwood and accent lighting with roof treatments not found in other coaches? Perhaps it is the level of features, home style bathroom fixtures, electronic lighting and blind control systems, top of the line electronics, remote door locking, integrated monitor systems with GPS, engine, transmission and tire pressure monitoring and more. Maybe it is the extra insulation for quiet ride, independent front suspension for better handling, larger, more powerful engines, generators on slide-outs and slide trays in the large storage areas. All of these items contribute to the luxury motorhome perspective. On this level, it is the “stuff” that comes with the RV.

Superb, Customer focused Service

One often overlooked feature of a luxury RV, and really the essence of luxury in a RV, is the extra level of customer service that accompanies it. Take, for instance, Fleetwood RV’s American Coach. A buyer can order a new coach built to suit the buyer’s taste and take delivery at the manufacturing plant with V.I.P. delivery. A plethora of technicians and support people go over the coach with the Buyer during the coach process explaining and demonstrating the new features and systems. Any production defects noticed are repaired prior to delivery.

After delivery, whether at a traditional dealership or after V.I.P. delivery, if issues arise when using the coach, there is an toll free 800 telephone number that Buyers can call to talk with Customer Support personnel, some of which are also Certified RV Technicians. All of these specialists take direct interest in answering questions and assisting owners with the issue at hand. Since they only work with American Coach products, they are continually developing their expertise which builds confidence with owners. Assistance can range from simply explaining a feature and how it operates, to assisting in the analysis of a problem and providing directions to the nearest repair facility. Sometimes sending an email with actual build plans attached is all that is required to help the owner and the wise ones file the plans for later reference. Not only are these specialists interested in providing assistance, they follow-up afterwards to ensure that the solution to the problem has been found and that this RV owner is satisfied.

As an American Coach owner, I have had the distinct pleasure of dealing with these specialists. Once lat summer when I sent an email with a question, I received a reply stating the contacted person was on vacation and within minutes I received a telephone call from another customer service person. I had the issue resolved and a couple of weeks later, when the first contacted person returned to the office, I received an email to confirm that the problem was resolved! Now that is customer orientated service!

Recently I sent another email to American Coach requesting information regarding an issue. I always send emails with a return receipt request and within minutes I received a confirmation that the message was read. In a short time, I received a telephone call with complete answers to my questions. Since there was a chassis component to my inquiry, it was recommended that I contact Spartan, the chassis maker, and then given their toll free telephone number to call. I did not have to look up the number and within a few minutes I was connected to a chassis specialist at Spartan who was also able to provide the information I requested. Once again, superb customer service!

Factory Service Center

Should you need to take the coach in for warranty or other service, Fleetwood has the Decatur Service Center, a former production facility that has been converted to service RVs. Prior to the demise of Fleetwood Enterprises (the original company) this service center was dedicated to American Coach Service. Under Fleetwood RV it is open to any Fleetwood customer however the vast majority of coaches arriving for service are American Coaches. After making a pre-arranged appointment for planned service, you can “camp” in a lot adjacent to the service center with electricity hook-up provided. (Water and a dump station are on site, but not at the camp site). (Drop-ins are fitted into the schedule when spaces in it show up). In this service facility you are taken into the shop at 6:00AM and allowed to stay in the coach while service work is performed. The exception is if there is any paint work done in the paint shop or interior work which may present a safety issue. The day concludes mid-afternoon with the coach being returned to the “camp”. All of the Technicians are well qualified, most are Master Certified RV Technicians and some formerly worked on the assembly line building coaches. They know what goes into making the coach and this added benefit provides insight into providing efficient repairs and adjustments.

Going the extra mile in Customer Service with the focus on the customer during all aspects of the RV owner’s experience is what makes a luxury RV. From the design, choice of materials, assembly technique and build quality to the delivery and after sale treatment of the customer. That is the essence of what a luxury RV owner enjoys. The price point for these vehicles is higher, the value is there and from my experience so far, owners are very satisfied with their coach, the service and the care. All in all, it took some convincing for us to take the step to buy an American Coach, even though I had dreamed of owning an American Coach Eagle throughout the twenty-one (21) years (at that point) of owning other motorhomes. Since we were less than 40 years old when we started, we were a little ahead of our generation in experiencing the RV lifestyle on cross country trips with our kids. Now, we enjoy travelling and look forward to taking our grandchildren along.

Where do we go from here?

Of course, as with any fine motorhome, there is a RV club and the icing on the cake is attending Rallies organized by the club and discovering that the Factory has sent a crew to make repairs and adjustments while RVers enjoy the Rally activities. Meeting some of the designers and providing input on future coaches is also part of the Rally experience. There is an online “Yahoo Group” as well where information is shared by the more than 2000 members of that forum.

In conversations with other American Coach owners, I have listened to how many they have owned over the years, (they are a loyal bunch) and how they (and we) value the “luxury” and will continue to buy another American Coach. That bodes well for American Coach in the future. Recently the conversations have focused on what they will be looking for in their next one. A smaller size now enters into the equation, without sacrificing what many have come to expect. The challenge will be to keep the quality and luxury while providing a smaller coach for those that want all of the features and benefits of a luxury RV. They see a need to step down a size as their RV days near the end of the road. I am very interested to see how the designers at American Coach react to the changing environment. Our definition of luxury will need to incorporate the best of the best, yet shrink the physical dimension. Will we be prepared to pay the same or a higher price for a smaller coach? The automobile industry crossed that bridge in 1976-77. I am confident the RV industry can do it as well. For now, if you have never experienced owning a luxury RV don’t wait too long!

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Roadtrek introduces N6 Active

2011-12-14T17:07:00.003-05:00

UPDATE:
We've been granted an exclusive interview with Roadtrek to learn more about their N6 Active. You have made this a popular post on our Blog, so we've responded by giving you more information! Go to our Facebook Page and "Like" us to be the first to know about posts like this one!

Roadtrek N6 Active

(Original Post Below)

Roadtrek is the first manufacturer to debut a RV – SUV built on Nissan’s taller van chassis. The N6 Active at first glance reminds me of the VW Westphalia van of decades ago. The roof section pops up on an angle with a tent material enclosing the angled space between the body and the raised roof. Inside there is a small refrigerator, sink and microwave and the four captain chairs are able to be swiveled into a cosy conversation area with table. This may be the ideal tailgater with rain and weather protection and the ability to tow 9,000 lbs. The third seat can fold down into a double bed and there is sleeping accommodation for two children. You get all of this in a vehicle the same length as a Nissan Titan pickup that reportedly can achieve up to 18 MPG (13.1 L/100km). Does this foreshadow the RV of the future or are we going back to what we had forty years ago? Have a look and you can decide for yourself.

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Fleetwood's PowerBridge II Chassis

2011-12-14T16:59:00.000-05:00

PowerBridge II Chassis

One of the announcements that did not get as much press as the new coach introductions at the RVIA Trade Show recently concluded in Louisville, KY was the collaboration between Fleetwood RV and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC) with input from Fleetwood’s parent company Allied Specialty Vehicles. All Fleetwood Class A diesel coaches will be based on a FCCC chassis as existing contracts and supplies run out during 2012.

The new Power Bridge II chassis is quite an improvement and warrants a close look. Not only did FCCC utilize computer design for the chassis, they moved forward with a backbone style of chassis with a strong center beam that is designed to carry substantial load where required with less weight and strength where the needs are lower. All of the main beams and cross members are attached with huckbolts providing a permanent connection, much less prone to loosening in use. All of the bin outriggers are attached by FCCC at the time of chassis building and the chassis design reportedly provides slightly more pass through storage than previous chassis-coach combinations. One new feature on coaches built on this chassis is a single point service center so that all fluids can be checked in one area.

With this substantial foundation, Fleetwood RV diesel coaches should exhibit much more responsive handling and excellent ride characteristics resulting in a quieter, more luxurious ride. To combat corrosion the complete chassis is electro-coated using military grade electro-coating process. Buyers of coaches built on this chassis will enjoy this benefit for many years to come.

A Close up view of the PowerBridge II Chassis

The new 2013 Excursion is based on this chassis and reportedly it was subjected to over 5000 miles (8000 KM) of brutal proving ground testing while towing the proving grounds 10,000 lb. (4,545 kg) test trailer and load. Reportedly the trailer broke down a couple of times during the testing and did not stand up very well. As a result it’s doubtful they will supply another “free” test trailer to Fleetwood in the future J. In contrast the chassis and coach came through with flying colors after this rigorous testing. It was as quiet at the end of the test as it was at the beginning.

The 2013 Excursion should be available in March 2012. I look forward to test driving this coach.

Fleetwood Excursion on PowerBridge II Chassis

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First look: 2013 Fleetwood Excursion

2011-12-01T14:40:00.003-05:00

2013 Fleetwood Excursion at the 2011 RVIA Show in Louisville, KY

The ~~2012~~ uh... make that 2013 Fleetwood Excursion is an interesting motorhome that Fleetwood introduced at the 49th Annual RVIA show in Louisville Kentucky this past week. This Class A motorhome will be released to the public in March of 2012, but Fleetwood has decided to call it a 2013 model year RV.

This unit is a great example of some of the innovation that Fleetwood is bringing to the RV industry. It also gives us a glimpse of how Fleetwood intends to rebound from the tough times of the previous years. The 2013 Excursion is an example of what happens when a large manufacturer combines the desire for innovation with the ability to listen to their users.

The first thing that strikes you about the Excursion is that it's really not all that tall. Fleetwood claims that it's 11'10" driving height will allow it to be driven into a garage with a 12 foot door. Once inside, releasing the air in the suspension will allow it to have an overall height of just 11'7". That's not very tall for a modern day class A motorhome. Despite the limited exterior height, the interior will still boast a full 7 feet of interior height. So something has to give, right? If you're anything like me, you're assuming that the basement of this unit must be either extremely small, or possibly non-existent. Well, that's not the case either.

How did Fleetwood accomplish this?

Fleetwood paired up with Freightliner Custom Chassis to rethink the traditional RV chassis. The two companies worked together to address all kinds of issues with the typical class A chassis. There are a lot of technical details which we'll write about later, but for practical purposes, Fleetwood is claiming a stronger, straighter, smoother riding chassis that allows you to have an impressive amount of storage space. A close look at the Excursion tells us that they're not kidding, and when we write a technical article on this chassis, you'll see how it all comes together.

Fleetwood is claiming that the lower exterior height is in response to their customers telling them that they'd like to be able to store their units in garages with 12 foot doors, but we're seeing another practical benefit to a lower exterior height. Increased fuel economy. With less frontal area to push through the wind, this unit should be fairly efficient out on the open road.

Efficiency speaks to the overall value of the coach, and we see the Excursion as a well rounded value. The interior is very high quality, and comfortable. In Fleetwood's marketing material they are claiming that "Every Fleetwood RV has a motor, but it's the special touches that make it a home." We have to admit that in the case of the Excursion, that marketing statement lives up to the hype. From the attractive colours of the interior to the countertops and backsplash that would fit in if they were in a downtown condo, right to the drop down 40" Sony BluRay LCD HDTV. Like many RV's these days, this unit has features that are probably nicer than many of the homes of their owners.

At launch, the Excursion will only be available with one floor plan, but it's a floor plan that we like quite a bit. With a large L shaped couch and a table system that Fleetwood calls it's "Conver-Table" the living area eliminates the traditional, and less comfortable dinette, but still provides all the practicality. The optional drop down, nearly queen size bunk means that this unit will work great for a family, or allow the grandparents to comfortably take along their children and grandchildren.

Little floor plan details that we noticed include a rear Queen bed that is not centred in the coach, but placed slightly to the driver's side. This allows for a better wardrobe area beside the headboard, but also eliminates the compromise that a centre bed provides. Instead of having too small of an area on either side of the bed, you have a comfortable place to walk, and get changed on the right side of the bedroom, while the left side is enough to get in or out of bed, with no wasted space.

The unit is powered by a Cummins 6.7 litre rear diesel engine mated to an Allison 6 Speed transmission. Overall power is just 250 horsepower, but a strong 660 lb-ft of torque at a low 1600rpm should provide plenty of power for a coach of this size. Keeping in mind this is a very short diesel pusher, most users will be perfectly happy with this engine. A towing capacity of 10,000 pounds means that owners won't have to make any sacrifices when it comes to bringing along a tow vehicle, or other trailer.

Overall, we think Fleetwood has a great unit in their Excursion, with a starting price at just under $180,000 this is going to be a tough unit to beat.

Click here to see Fleetwood's home page for the Excursion with full pictures and specs.

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This review was written by Peter Lowe of RV-Parts Plus.com Check out our Main Site for all of your motorhome Towing and Braking needs including our exclusive RVing FuseSwitch™

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Fleetwood Storm 33Q and Tiffin Allegro Breeze 32BR

2011-11-30T17:14:00.001-05:00

Fleetwood Storm 33Q

Fleetwood has taken the step of combining the best features of a Class C with those of a Class A. This began last year with the re-introduction of the Storm and this year the 33Q has notched it up a step. The drop down from the roof, Hide-A-Loft Queen Bed is still there, however the 40” Hideaway LCD TV is quite unique. In this model, the TV is placed directly in front of a window beside the dinette and conveniently drops down when not being viewed to allow looking out the window. When raised into position the TV blocks the window and is perfectly placed for those sitting on the dinette to view. You can watch it from the dinette although some might find that a little close. Certainly it is another way of creating a day night shade! The floor plan also features number of steps up and down that some may need to get used to. Otherwise there is a broom closet, lots of wardrobe storage and low entry step. Lots of wood trim make this coach seem that it is not a budget priced RV. It is packed with features and looks great.

Fleetwood Storm - Bedroom

Fleetwood Storm - Dining Area with retractable TV

Fleetwood Storm 33Q Floorplan and features

Tiffin Allegro Breeze 32BR

Tiffin had the distinction of building the shortest Class A diesel coach however some found that length a little short for their purposes. Responding to customer feedback Tiffin is entering the 31-34 foot diesel market with a new 32BR. It features opposing slide-outs and a rear queen bedroom. The TV flips down from the ceiling in the bedroom and provides a small yet good size display giving the positioning. The coach is powered by a Navistar Max-Force Diesel engine and rides on Tiffin’s PowerGlide chassis. Space is compact, similar to the European feel we see in coaches built on the Mercedes chassis Class C chassis however this is a Class A when comfort and look is factored in. The wood faced refrigerator and beautiful wood trim makes the coach seem bigger and the wrap-around lounge dinette and floating table really open up the coach.

Tiffin Allegro Breeze 32BR

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Newmar introduces 3D TV to RVing

2011-11-30T17:02:00.000-05:00

Walking into a top of the line coach and seeing a LED or LCD flat screen TV is not unusual in today’s RV marketplace. However when the TV is 3D the effect is enough to have you take a second look. Even without the 3D glasses, the images have depth and a perspective that heretofore is unseen in an RV. I am not a big TV watcher and have not been to see 3D movies however the effect of seeing a 3D TV in an RV is noteworthy. It is a quantum leap from the entertainment we enjoyed in RV’s 30 years ago. As the buyers of these RV’s are the most likely to have this technology in their homes, Newmar made the leap to placing Sony LED 3D TVs in the King Aire and Mountain Aire coaches. It is unique and I would expect the competition will walk along the same path shortly. Also noteworthy in this coach was the high gloss lacquer finish to all of the woodwork. The shine is distinctive and takes getting used to. Look for yourself and decide if the different look appeals to you.

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An "All Electric RV"

2011-11-30T16:56:00.000-05:00

Don’t be fooled by the title, I am not referring to the industry trend to install residential refrigerators and electric smooth surface cooktops. This RV is powered exclusively by an electric motor! MVP showcased its Tahoe Class C with an electric propulsion system. This system uses Winston Lithium high tech batteries to power an electric motor through an Allison transmission. The prototype on display is built on a Ford Class C chassis and provides about 120 miles of range before requiring a charge. Battery Charging with the fast charge station can replenish the batteries in just 20 minutes. A system designed to be installed at an RV dealer will take about 1.5 hours. Now before you say: ”Are you kidding?” this is a prototype! Quiet, emission and fuel free travel is possible.

A Class A version, initially expected to achieve about 300+ miles before charging, is in the works as well. As a Hybrid fan I found the concept unique and credible although obviously in the development phase. Who would have thought that a segment of car buyers would buy a plug-in car (the Chevy Volt) and yet GM is selling them. You now know that RV’s are following right behind. I am sure the owners of short range delivery vehicles with defined routes will look seriously at this technology as well. I wonder how long it will be before one of the RV choices will be an “all –electric coach” with LED lighting, electric cooktop, residential refrigerators, using a fuel cell technology to provide charge power for the house batteries and an all-electric, emission free power train? All of the elements were on display at the 2011 RVIA National Trade Show. All of this, just a few short years after the pundits were predicting the demise of the industry. The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the RV industry.

MVP Tahoe Electric Motorhome - Under the hood

MVP Tahoe Electric Motorhome - Electric Propulsion

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Roadmaster Eclipse Slide Out System

2011-11-30T16:51:00.000-05:00

Roadmaster introduced a revolutionary slideout system that uses aerospace steel reinforced (toothed) drive belts to move the slide room assembly. The belts appear as a roughly 2” band near the top and bottom of the slideout box. They look like part of the graphics found on many RV slide box ends. The system requires little initial adjustment and virtually no maintenance, so it should be a win-win for the RV maker and the consumer. There is no additional slide lock, the slide can be manually moved if there is no battery power and the design channels water out of the RV. What impressed me is that it is virtually invisible and it allows taller slideout designs. It also connects the slide box to the RV at BOTH the top and the bottom greatly enhancing the integrity of the slide. Typically, slide boxes are moved in and out on tracks with the top floating or pulled in and out using cables or other mechanisms with the box floating. This creates the need for adjustments both at installation and during use. Conventional systems also require consistent maintenance to maintain the water and weather seal.

With aerodynamics becoming part of the RV design equation, this system will allow contoured walls, so curved surfaces can have slide-outs in them. It is a very simple and stable slideout system that I expect will be featured in many RV designs in the very near future.

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American Coach 45T Heritage

2011-11-30T13:13:00.002-05:00

This amazing coach features 450 square feet of floor space. A third of the coach is the king sized bedroom and residential feel bathroom with hand laid stone floor and a shower stall that looks like it came from a luxury home. The multiplex lighting can be controlled by your iPad, while all of the Sony TV’s are LED models. The Girard roof mounted awnings feature articulated designs that come out parallel to the ground until well past the extended slideout then angle to provide more protection and a larger shaded area. These awnings are 110V powered. Even the dash air is a dual zone system similar that which is found on many high end luxury cars. This coach exuded space, quality and ultimate luxury.

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New Diesel Chassis Supplier

2011-11-30T13:11:00.001-05:00

One of the items revealed at the Fleetwood introduction of their newest models was the transition away from Spartan as their diesel engine chassis supplier to FCCC. This will be a soft transition with some 2012 models being built on Spartan and others being built on Freightliner. Some of the characteristic Spartan chassis equipped features will find their way onto the FCCC vehicles. One that is familiar to the American Coach owner is the central servicing bay.

Related: Fleetwood's PowerBridge II Chassis
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American Coach Revolution 38S

2011-11-30T11:58:00.001-05:00

After a 3 year absence American Coach introduced a 38S single axle Revolution coach. Featuring a full wall, street side slide and two additional curb side slide-outs this coach has ample space. It is built on the latest Liberty Chassis, now provided by Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp (FCCC). It features a backbone structure and is electro-coated to virtually eliminate corrosion. Interior features include highly polished tile floors, Villa Ultra leather furniture and a bath and a half. The generator is on a powered slide, the residential refrigerator has 8 AGM batteries powering two pure sine wave inverters and Aqua-Hot heating system. The exterior features a slide mounted patio awning and flush mounted, flip out frameless windows.

American Coach Revolution Frameless Windows

American Coach Revolution Slide Out

American Coach Revolution 38S Shower

American Coach Revolution Floorplan and Features

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2012 Bounder Diesel Classic

2011-11-30T09:49:00.000-05:00

Fleetwood introduces a Bounder Classic 36R Diesel. This front engine 36 foot diesel is said to be quieter than the gas coach with extensive sound insulation employed to really reduce the diesel sound. Air brakes and Air suspension makes this coach unique in an entry level diesel coach ($165,000 MSRP). This triple slide, bath and a half floor plan showcase the typical features expected in a Bounder. Ample basement storage and the ‘value for the money’ approach make this coach worth looking at. Even the logo is “retro” Bounder and is applied all around the coach exterior reminiscent.

2012 Bounder Diesel Classic

2012 Bounder Diesel Classic Front engine Diesel

2012 Bounder Diesel Classic - Slide outs

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What to expect today! (Wednesday November 30th)

2011-11-29T23:30:00.002-05:00

We spent all day on Tuesday walking the huge RVIA show in Louisville Kentucky. Overall there's been a real sense of optimism for the future of the RV industry. Individual booth's are busy, and the big exhibitors, the RV manufacturer's, are showing great levels of innovation and quality products.

We had a variety of experiences from getting a personal tour of a coach with the president of Fleetwood, to spending time chatting with smaller vendors at their booths. We saw everything from traditional RV's to a battery electric motorhome with the potential to travel up to 250 miles on one charge.

Along the same lines of innovation and efficiency, we saw a fuel cell system that can replace the traditional gasoline, or diesel powered generator in today's RV. The fuel cell is an example of the green energy options that are available to RVers today!

We're still figuring out the best way to let our customers in to this industry only show, and on Wednesday, you can expect us to make a bunch of small blog postings about what we've seen. If you have twitter, you're really going to be able to come with us. Nobody is covering this show on twitter better than we are! We'll be tweeting about what we see, but also retweeting what others have seen. We'll include pictures, and links to anything newsworthy. Our coverage of the first day of the show gives a great feel to what's going on, and how people are reacting to the show.

If you've got a twitter account, follow us @RVpartsPlus and if you don't, you can see our most recent tweets on the feed to the right of this post.

We're looking forward to a GREAT second day at the RVIA show in Louisville, Kentucky! Check back often for updates, and feel free to contact Peter by clicking here, if you have anything that you want us to cover. We'll do our best to get to your booth (if you're there) , or answer your questions (if you're not).

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What we expect to see at the Louisville RVIA Show.

2011-11-28T15:44:00.000-05:00

Reliable sources indicate that Tiffin will introduce a “stretched version” of their 28 foot Breeze diesel pusher, that will be 32 feet and have two slides. THOR will introduce 11 new floor plans in various coaches that they produce. Newmar will debut 3D TV to the RV market place in their top of the line Essex and King Aire coaches featuring Sony TV’s. Fleetwood will reintroduce a diesel Bounder, certainly to be popular among the thousands of Bounder owners who want diesel power and features and were shut out of the market for a couple of years. In addition there will be a number of new floor plans in the successful Tioga Ranger DSL and Tioga DSL coaches built on the popular Mercedes Benz chassis.

Moving up in size the Storm and Southwind models get new floor plans and I am told that the Storm 33Q will have some innovative features. Of course the popular Discovery and Expedition will also see some updates as well. After an almost 3 year absence American Coach will re-introduce a non-tag-axle model luxury coach (HurrayJ) and the top of the line Heritage will introduce a floor plan featuring 460 square feet of interior living space. That is the size of a bachelor or studio apartment and it will definitely be the leader of the pack in space.

Not to be left out Winnebago will feature many new and updated models. Spartan Chassis will be introducing an 25 foot Class C chassis with either gas or diesel power and air suspension designed for customers with mobility and health concerns. In addition a 32 foot diesel pusher chassis will feature a choice of the Navistar MF7 or Cummins ISP engines. Convenience and fuel efficiency are rising up the priority ladder by the looks of these offerings. Speaking of Navistar, after the successful launch of the Vesta and Trip last year there is much anticipation about the upcoming Dynasty and other offerings in the full sized, luxury featured coaches. One can be certain, that the Navistar influence will be evident if in no other way than the new front end designs that lend a corporate similarity to all of their lineup.

I am sure there will be a flurry of innovative accessory products and we will be combing through them to see what we can offer the motorized RVer on our website in 2012. Speaking of our website, watch it over the next couple of months as we transition to a much more dynamic design. We are striving to offer many more products and very competitive prices. In addition there will be audio and video components that will help you understand more about the RVing lifestyle.

Check back each day next week as we bring you highlights from the RVIA National Trade Show.

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Do You Have Louisville Show Questions?

2011-11-28T08:20:00.001-05:00

The RVIA show in Louisville Kentucky is an industry only show, that is not open to the public. We'll be at the show checking out all kinds of things to keep our customers in the loop, and let them know what to expect in 2012. If there's something that you would like to see, click here to contact Peter and we'll see if we can find an answer for you. Remember to keep coming back to our blog as we'll continually be updating these pages to keep you informed.

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We're At the RVIA Show in Louisville, KY

2011-11-28T08:15:00.000-05:00

We’re off to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) National Trade Show held in Louisville KY the first week after the US Thanksgiving. This 775,000 square foot show is designed to acquaint RV dealers, trade suppliers, parts and accessory dealers and campground owners with all that is new and updated in the RV Industry. It is a very well planned and executed show with lots of new and innovation products on display. The kickoff Outlook 2012 breakfast is shaping up to be a blockbuster with excellent presentations and introduction of the Go RVing 2012 ad campaign. We will receive updates on where the industry appears to be heading in these somewhat unsettling times. Press releases have been leaked out that indicate the show will feature the official launch or re-launch of some well-known products and many new floor plans and featured filled coaches.

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Chevrolet HHR RVing FuseSwitch™ installation video

2011-11-03T10:41:00.000-04:00

If you own a Chevy HHR, and you're interested in our RVing FuseSwitch™here is a video to show you the basics of installing our product in your vehicle.

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On To North Carolina

2011-09-26T13:39:00.000-04:00

We left I-75 around Knoxville and headed east on I-40. It was almost one year from when we had travelled this same highway after taking delivery of our new coach. This bright sunny morning we marvelled once again at the beauty of the “Smokies” as wisps of clouds provided cover for some of the steep mountain slopes and tree lined hills. The undivided windshield provided many ‘pictures’ as we drove. As we proceeded east toward Marion, we saw how effortlessly our coach cruised up and safely down the increasingly longer slopes of the interstate. For the first time in our RVing travels we have a coach with a chassis and powertrain combination that can truly handle all that it faces effortlessly and most importantly – safely! We are looking forward to many more journeys throughout North America. I am also surprised at the fuel economy, both on more mountainous terrain and at interstate speeds and off the interstate at slower highway speeds. For the first time, we can travel back-country, secondary highways at 55mph (90 kmh) and achieve the same fuel economy as at 62-65 mph (100-105 kmh). The wide torque band and power range combined with efficient transmission control greatly enhances the overall fuel economy of our coach.

The trip to Marion, NC was back to our selling dealer, Tom Johnson Camping Centre, for a customer appreciation BBQ, a four day event focused on thanking their customers for their business over the years. This year marked the 31^st consecutive year, probably a record for any RV dealer. With about 500 sites available, I would guess that over 400 were filled with RV’s ranging from small pop-up trailers to all classes and sizes of motorhomes and trailers. The event is so well regarded that many come in early to enjoy the area, scenery, walk the RV lot, and have service performed on their RV or pick up some parts in the well-stocked large parts department. We had the opportunity to lead a few seminars over the course of the event. During the day there were various seminars, casual craft sales and of course fine breakfast and lunch food offered at TJ’s, the onsite café. Each evening featured excellent entertainment for both young and old. Saturday was the biggest day of activities which begun with a scrumptious breakfast free to all. We dutifully lined up and waited the better part of an hour, not because the service was slow but because so many people were present. Everyone was greeted and thanked for coming by the sales staff, and owners. The menu was varied and plates were full as people left the serving lines.

There were great numbers of children with their parents and grandparents. The day carried on with more seminars, some about RVing, and other topics from food to birds. The children had a packed day of crawling over and sliding down a multitude of large multi-story fan powered activity centers, craft areas with face painting, clowns playing tricks, and lots of entertainment.

For the older crowd, Barney, the Mayberry deputy cop of the 60’s raced around giving out tickets in his flashing light and siren equipped golf cart. Many of us received a “ticket” at breakfast. A large classic car show was held at the service center complete with music of the 60’s and 70’s playing all day during the show. There were even Race Cars since Tom Johnson Camping center sponsors cars that race locally at Lowes international Speedway at the Concord location. For the adventurous there were agility races for those towing a trailer through a coned course among other events. The pavilion featured various presentations and music while the activities were taking place.

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Time with Fleetwood in Decatur

2011-09-23T11:39:00.000-04:00

In Decatur, we were once again spoiled by the superb customer service provided by Fleetwood at their American Coach Service facility. While no one wants to have warranty work completed on their new coach (like most, we are spoiled by the quality of new cars) if you are going to have service, it is great to have it done by very qualified and knowledgeable RV technicians, with strong parts support. The repairs get done in a timely fashion and we usually leave totally satisfied and nothing left on the list. It makes us wonder how those that bought orphaned RV’s handle these repairs, since even if they have third party extended warranties making arrangements to get repairs properly completed in a short span of time must be quite a challenge.

We are becoming familiar with “Camp Decatur” and the gravel covered parking lot which has about 50 individual sites with electricity, and a communal dump and water station. We have even been able to get used to being up at 5:30am and being taken into the shop at 6:00am. Service hours finish at 2:30pm. One nice feature we appreciate with a small dog is that we can remain in the RV except when the coach is in the paint shop. I highly recommend the service facilities in Decatur, which is open to all Fleetwood motorized RV owners. Make an appointment well in advance, since drop in time can extend out up to a week after arrival without an appointment. Take the RV plant tour and see the latest RV’s being constructed. It is well worth the time.

One highlight of our visit to the Service Center this time was a Customer Appreciation dinner. We were invited to a dinner given by the Parts and Service staff and many of the Fleetwood executives that were in town dropped by to share dinner with the service customers. This event served two important functions: It demonstrated Fleetwood’s appreciation for our business and secondly it provided an opportunity to meet and chat with the personnel in charge of service, parts, dealer relations and future design. I always find these casual meetings lead to discussions that do not occur in more structured settings. This helps the customer appreciate the company’s perspective on things and gives the customer time to compliment the excellent sales and aftermarket service at dealers they have dealt with, thank Fleetwood for their care and concern over our repair issues and opportunity to pass along improvements and additions that might make their way into new models. With the changes in the 2011 American Coach lineup we were able to pass along some recommendations for future product. Dialogue is always good. In this day of tightening budgets and expenditure slashing it is great to see the re-introduction of a dinner that historically has proven to serve all concerned.

Travelling around in Decatur we drove by the local plants and it was very obvious that the Class C and value priced Class A RVs are in high demand. Those coaches were continually being parked after coming off the assembly line and driven away to dealers near and far. The RV business has gone through a transition and RV manufacturers are making the changes required to move forward.

This part of our trip was a prelude to our next travel destination in North Carolina.

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A look at the RV Business today

2011-09-22T08:13:00.000-04:00

We recently travelled to Indiana and North Carolina. In Elkhart, we felt the sense that the worst was behind us in the RV business. More of the plants were opened, and there was inventory ready to be delivered in the once empty yards. Certainly there were many plants and retail businesses that were closed, and offered for sale or rent, a definite sign of the times in the Central USA. We noticed that some craftsmen who once worked for large firms were now gainfully self-employed producing the myriad of small changes and woodworking alterations RV owners continually want made. TV replacement seemed to be high on the list with small work stations and functional improvements such as the removal of single combination washer-dryer units and replacement with stacked washer dryers being popular.

Talking to one of our campground owner acquaintances gave insight into us ongoing changes in campground business. He said occupancy was down this year however 2010 was his best year ever. His recent focus on improving his facility for RV Rallies provided the boost in 2010 however many Rally organizers choose not to return to the same location year after year. This in turn requires more marketing efforts by the campground to continually prospect for new Rally events. Changing conditions require changes in business plans to keep current.

As we travelled to Decatur, IN, we noticed a significant number of solar panel installations for both residential and business use. Many farm buildings had large arrays on the southern exposure showing the influence on self-sufficiency and energy subsidies are driving a lot of the changes.

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Time for a good book?

2011-09-14T09:22:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year again! While still technically summer, the kids and grandkids are back in school, all of the familiar faces are back at work, and some of you are thinking a little bit more about RVing, instead of actually going RVing. Many are preparing to winterize their RV, while others are considering heading south soon. In many ways, it's the RVing calm before the storm. The best of the summer weather is behind us, and we haven't quite left for our winter trip.

It's the time of year where the average RVer might have some time to read a book.

We just came back from a great time at the Tom Johnson Camping centre where we spoke on a variety of topics (don't worry, blog posts will be up soon about that) but one of the things that we're proud of is that Tom Johnson's gives one of our books with each new RV purchased. Whether you're new to RVing, or a veteran of the lifestyle, we have found that people really enjoy our book. This book is full of the information that new RVer's need to know, but we've also managed to put great information in there for long time RVer's. Tom Johnson's gives our books out with a new RV because they know that the book will last the RVer as long as their RV lasts. During the first few years of use, the new RVer will find all kinds of practical information, with lots of pictures to help them enjoy their RV. Because that's what it's all about! RVing shouldn't be work, it should be fun! The information in our book helps make new RVers, life long RVers.

As the RVer get's more experience, they will find that this book is one that you can go back to for all kinds of information. A new RV doesn't require the same maintenance as an RV that has been around for a little longer. Our book recognizes this, and it's the type of book that you can go back to again and again to keep your RV in perfect working order. This book will not only make your RVing enjoyable for years and years, but following the information in this book will give you great return on your RV investment. A properly maintained RV commands much more attention, and significantly more money in resale value than an RV which has just been used, and stored.

This book gives you maintenance and usability tips that a dealer can't possibly share with you during the sales process. We have spent extensive amounts of time working with manufacturers, and are able to give you inside the industry information that the average RVer, and even the average RV author, usually doesn't have access to.

So have a look at our book! It's an RV bestseller for a reason. Now is a great time to flip through a few pages to get ready for your winter trip, or your winterization. And speaking of winter, I know you don't want to hear this, but Christmas IS coming! Now is a great time to pick up the perfect gift for that hard to buy for RVer in your life.

Click here for a link to our main website, where you can buy our book.

Happy RV reading!

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Our RVing FuseSwitch™ is your solution!

2011-08-17T10:01:00.000-04:00

One of the things that RV-PartsPlus is known for is our RVing FuseSwitch™. You no longer have to pull fuses to tow your car. All you need to do is flick a switch. Installation is a simple do it yourself job. (Even if you're not a do-it-yourselfer!)

Imagine just clicking a switch to tow your car! Click here to visit this product on our website today for current pricing. We can ship this product to you today.

Have more questions? No problem! Click Here to Contact Us and we'll answer all of your questions. You'll be impressed with our service, and thrilled with our product!
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Let's talk Tow Bar safety, and Maintenance!

2011-08-17T09:38:00.000-04:00

For years now, we've maintained a Tech Tips section on our main website. These are a variety of tips that we have written for our own website as well as for other publications. Today we're highlighting Tech Tip #45 which talks about Tow Bar Safety and Maintenance. Click Here to view the article.

Would you like to see a technical article written on a particular topic? Click here to Contact Us and tell us what you would like to see.

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How difficult is it to install a Blue Ox Baseplate? Watch and learn!

2011-08-15T10:36:00.000-04:00

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RVing and Antique Cars! (Part 3)

2011-08-11T09:57:00.005-04:00

Whippet, Overland, Nash, Hupmobile, Dodge Brothers, Willys – are all names of vehicles from bygone days that are buried in the lore of automotive history. Pontiac, Saturn and Oldsmobile are names from today that have also been retired. Vehicles with these names and others were on display at the local Blyth Cruise night. Between 150 and 200 cars from Model T’s to Chevrolet SSR and Pontiac Solstice were on display shined up and polished to perfection. What a beautiful display of automotive history we enjoyed. Walking the rows and listening to the comments of visitors conversing with the owners was a great way to spend an evening. Listening to music popular as I (and many of those attending) was growing up was also part of the enjoyment. Even young singles and couples with very young children were engaged in the fun of the event.

The thought that kept going through my mind was the talent of the ordinary people who enjoy tinkering with these historical vehicles. I saw a picture of a Dodge Brothers car that truly looked like a car ready for the junk heap, with a tree growing up through it. To see that car today, with hand crafted metal fenders, gas tank, roof and so on showed the true talent and abilities of these craftsmen. Then to hear that all of the engine, transmission and many of the operating components were rebuilt really drives home the message. This is a labor of love for these owners. They dedicate many long hours and thousands of miles to travel looking for the single component that will allow them to move forward with the restoration. The RV that they have facilitates that process and combines travel with a purpose in the pursuit of their hobby. I have come to appreciate the owners of antique and classic cars after spending the better part of a week as an onlooker this week.

Have a look through some of the photos we have posted and see if they do not bring back memories for you and possibly kindle a desire to pursue another way to Go RVing.

Note: If you are using a device that does not have Flash (iPad, iPhone etc), or you do not see the slideshow above, Click the "View all" button above to view the album.

This is Part 3 of 3
Click here for Part 1
Click here for Part 2

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RVing and Antique Cars! (Part 2)

2011-08-11T09:50:00.001-04:00

As a knowledgeable RVer, I cringed at what I saw – some 20 or 30 year old RV’s or small class C rigs towing flat bed trailers with antiques on them that were well over the safe towing capacities. Some of the older drum brake equipped cars and trucks towing trailers, were obviously not safe. In the early years of RVing many towed far more than the rigs were capable of safely towing because those rig manufacturers had not seen the growing demand by RVers to take along a towed vehicle. We all have learned a lot about safety over the years, with hitch and towing capacity of newer rigs increasing, the addition of supplemental braking systems, better lighting and hitch systems and tire pressure monitoring. I was reminded that many see a 2” hitch receiver as a license to tow anything and everything. In some ways this use is still the norm for many RVers who purchase a rig to accompany their favoured lifestyle choice where the focus is not on RV travel alone.

The question is: How do we educate those that are not conventional RVers about safety? These owners are very inventive, curious, knowledgeable and resourceful. They have to be to restore these vehicles from bygone eras. However safety does not bypass them. Interestingly we had discussions with many who know that tires age and lack of use breeds problems since those problems plague their antique cars and trucks. How does the word spread through these groups about the other safety factors? While you are contemplating that though enjoy some of the photos of cars and trucks we saw here.

Note: If you are using a device that does not have Flash (iPad, iPhone etc), or you do not see the slideshow above, Click the "View all" button above to view the album.

This is Part 2 of 3.

Click here to go to Part 1

Click here to go to Part 3

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RVing and Antique Cars!

2011-08-09T11:10:00.004-04:00

When one is involved in the RV business as we are, it is possible to lose sight of the many uses that encompass the RVing lifestyle. This past week we met with some members and former members of a RV club that we belonged to. We ate and met in large groups while we reminiscing about past Rallies and things that we did together. That lifestyle was a big part of our early RV experiences as many with the same brand of coach met and were united around the experiences of using their coach to travel together or meet at various attractions. This event was scheduled at Blyth, ON, a small rural community which has the distinction of an excellent summer live theatre and drama festival and it is the location of an 800 suite “Rally Park”. The grassy sites have posts with 8 or 10 electricity and water hook-ups, some with 30 amp service, although the majority of sites have access to 15 amp power. For those “south of the border” readers, this level of services is much more common than full service sites. The park is the focal point of many agricultural community focused events throughout the year and many arrive with their RV.

After our Rally we heard that there would be an antique car meet (we all have a lingo for our get-togethers) and we decided to stay and watch the events unfold. Many arrived with RV’s of various styles a day or two early and then returned driving their antique vehicle. Others arrived with their RV towing their antique vehicle on a trailer or dolly. The truly adventurous used the antique vehicle to actual tow their RV to the meet. I have included some photos of those and will include a few others of some of the truly beautifully restored antique cars and trucks that gathered here this week.

This is Part 1 of 3
Click here for Part 2
Click here for Part 3

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What type of lighting connection should I use in the towed vehicle?

2011-08-08T11:14:00.002-04:00

What type of lighting connection in the towed vehicle should I use?

Q: When I make the lighting installation in my tow vehicle, should I use a dedicated bulb and socket type or a diode kit?

A: Most towed vehicles allow the installation of a separate bulb in a socket powered by the RV in each taillight of the towed vehicle. As LED lighting and clear taillight lenses with colored covers over the bulbs become more prevalent, diodes will be required. Most towing system manufacturers make recommendations in conjunction with their work in designing the baseplate for a particular towed vehicle.

How to install the wiring:

In TechTweet #1, we recommended a six wire wiring kit. Installation of this kit is quite straight forward. Begin by mounting the connector on the supports supplied by the baseplate maker, using the self-tapping bolts to thread the holes in them. If supports are not located on the baseplate, then find a suitable accessible location in the center of the front fascia of the towed vehicle. The wiring will be installed after it is run through to the rear of the towed vehicle. Remove the connector and keep sufficient wire at the front of the vehicle.

Begin threading the flat four wire cable and any additional wires from this location up along the driver's side inner fender. Ensure that the wiring does not come in contact with any sharp edges or any hot or moving parts when going between the front of radiator area and the fender area. If the braking system requires connections to the tow vehicle wiring we recommend doing it in this fender area.

We also recommend making a tap onto the white (ground) wire and attaching the tapped wire to a suitable ground screw in this area. There usually is a large wiring grommet on the firewall on the driver's side through which the wiring can be passed into the passenger compartment. Use a box cutter type knife to cut a small hole in this large grommet.

Ensure that there is no obstruction on the passenger compartment side of the firewall. You may need to loosen some carpeting or under padding to completely access this grommet. Use a coat hanger that has been straightened out as a pulling tool and push an end through the slit in the grommet. Once visible in the passenger compartment make a small hook to pull the wiring through into the passenger compartment, loop the wire into this hook and crimp the hanger to retain the wire. If necessary use a small amount of electricians tape to cover the hook. Always insure that the coat hanger does not come into contact with the positive battery terminal or any other electrical contact while pulling the coat hangar through the firewall.

If the wiring is difficult to pull through and it is not caught on any obstruction, then spray a light coating of silicone on the wiring where it enters the grommet. Once the wire is pulled into the passenger compartment, lift the sill plates (the plastic panels that cover the carpet to metal body junction at the door opening) by placing you fingers under the panels and pulling straight up evenly across the length of the plate. They may be locked into the front kick panel or the door pillar. Once removed, the carpet can be rolled back, revealing a wiring track or raceway containing the vehicle wiring. Run the tow wiring in this same track, ensuring that it does not come into contact with any sharp metal edges or moveable parts of the seats or doors. Follow the track to the rear seat area and if necessary remove the lower seat cushion.

This usually involves pressing the lower cushion toward the rear of the vehicle and lifting. Sometimes it is merely lifted up out of nylon retainers. Occasionally it requires the removal of a bolt or two.These bolts will be metric fasteners. Once the wiring is into the rear compartment or trunk ensure that it is safely installed back to the rear taillight area.

If the taillights are to be removed, remove the metric fasteners and slide the assemblies away from the body usually in a rearward direction.

If a separate bulb is to be installed, then drill a 1" (25mm) hole in the housing in the location recommended by the tow system manufacturer. For example, Blue Ox shows the location in a photo in their baseplate installation instructions. These can be accessed online at www.blueox.us. Place the socket into the new hole and use a small amount of silicone sealer to ensure a water tight seal. Make the wiring connections to the bulb socket on the drivers side (yellow, brown and white wires) then take the wiring to the passenger side through the rear compartment. Remove the taillight housing as previously described and install the remaining bulb using the green, brown and white wiring.

Should your towed vehicle require the diode kit then you will need to determine the wiring color code for the taillight and brake wiring on the vehicle. You may need to use a test light to determine which wiring provides the brake and taillight function. Note: On vehicles that have amber signal and red brake lights, ensure that the connections are made to the red lights. The reason for this is that in some States it is illegal to use an amber light as a brake light. The diode kits usually contain three highly conductive diodes with two connections on one side and one connection on the other end. The single wire connection goes to the bulb. The double end has one end connected to the existing vehicle wiring that was cut and the other goes to the new RV wiring that is being installed. Follow the color coding mentioned earlier or the instructions supplied with the kit. A crimp-on junction connector will be required to be made to the taillight wiring to power the two rear taillights from the single brown wire from the RV.

Neatly install the wiring, and reinstall the two taillight housings and any panels that were removed for access to the wiring. Properly protect the new and existing wiring. Go back to the front of the vehicle and trim the wiring to fit into the wiring boot, the housing and the rear of the connector. The plastic connector has molded into the surface the wire codes: Y or LT is yellow; G or RT is green; BN or T/M is Brown; GND or WT is white; S is used for the brake system; and A is used for a charge wire. We recommend using Corrosion Block on each terminal and screw and then coating the connectors and wiring with di-electric grease as it will provide a physical barrier to moisture. Reinstall the connector into the housing and then cover the wire with the boot, then remount with the covering flap on the top.

Conclusion: It depends on the type of taillight housing is found in the tow vehicle. LED and clear lens taillights will require a diode kit. Most others will allow a separate Bulb and socket kit to be utilized

(click on pictures to see enlarged images)

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RVing FuseSwitch™ installation in a 2011 Cadillac SRX

2011-08-03T10:24:00.002-04:00

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How to install our RVing FuseSwitch™

2011-07-26T16:24:00.000-04:00

We get all kinds of questions about our RVing FuseSwitch™ Here is a video showing you how to install the RVing FuseSwitch yourself. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to Contact Us.

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TECH TWEET: What type of wiring connection should I use?

2011-07-18T17:30:00.000-04:00

4 Wire Versus 6 Wire Connections:

Q: When we are setting up a vehicle for towing we often hear: You recommend 6 wire connectors. The
other dealer specified a four wire connector. What gives?

A: Most towed vehicles require 4 wires for their lighting requirements however there are other power requirements. The lighting is as follows: (with the color code in brackets):

Right Signal and Brake (green),
Left Signal & Brake, (yellow)
Tail‐lights (brown)
and Ground (white).

The majority of wiring kits include what is known in the industry as flat four trailer wiring which is a flat cable with four colored wires moulded into a single strip. (See photo)

For a vehicle lighting requirements and for light‐weight utility trailers that do not have electric brakes, this type of wiring is fine. It was adopted by the RV industry when RVers first decided to tow small cars about twenty years ago.

Needs have changed:
Today, towing systems are more sophisticated with most RVers regularly towing a vehicle equipped with a Towed Vehicle Braking system. Some even require a charge line. With Four Wire connectors, you are out of connections. For this reason six wire connectors are the industry norm today. Another reason to

adopt a six wire system is that the type and quality of connectors is vastly superior. As the two photos show, the black six wire connector is far more substantial with larger pins capable of carrying higher current loads

than the smaller chrome four wire connectors.

The six wire connector is polarized so that the plug in part can only go in one way, even if forced into place. There is better water infiltration protection from a large boot rather than a grommet.

The RV industry has acknowledged that RVers may tow a larger trailer or a Towed Vehicle behind what are much larger RV’s than were the norm 20 years ago. The industry has

adopted a standardized seven pin blade style receptacle (see photo) so that trailers, which come with male ends designed to mate to these connectors, can be plugged right in.

All the lighting, braking and charge wiring is accommodated with a seven pin blade connector. Towed Vehicles usually do not require a charge line, so one wire connection can be eliminated and six wires will provide all the functionality required. The industry has responded with a round plug in adapter, which can be readily obtained. It is simply plugged into the coach connector and the cable extension is plugged into it, to provide all the functionality required. (See Photos)

Should a Charge line be required, many adapters have the capability of allowing one

wire to be moved to provide 12 volts from the Coach connector to the tow car.

RV manufacturers frequently use relays for all of the lighting functions to ensure that full power is available to the trailer or Towed Vehicle. This, when combined with a much more substantial connector, means the lighting on the towed vehicle is brighter and will be clearly visible under all towing conditions.

The Extension cable between the RV and the Towed Vehicle should be a coiled style to greatly reduce the risk of it being damaged when turning or crossing uneven terrain. The cable will stretch out or contract depending upon the need and should never drag on the ground or get caught under the tow system. This style of cable also allows for Drop/Riser receivers and other towing accessories to be installed in the towing system while maintaining the wiring above the tow system.

Conclusion: Always Go with the 6 Wire Tow Electrical Connections.

(This post is also available in an easy to read PDF format. Contact Us and ask for this Tech Tweet by telling us that you would like a copy of the Tech Tweet "What Type of Wiring Should I Use?")

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Tech Tweets Coming Soon

2011-07-15T15:36:00.000-04:00

As we work to improve our web presence, we're going to be launching a Tech Tweets section on our blog. We hope that you will find these quick tips to be practical and helpful. Our Tech Tweets will go well beyond the typical tweets that can be found on Twitter. You'll find that the title for these tweets will be made available on Twitter as soon as we have them up on the blog. So if you want to follow our Tech Tweets, try following us on Twitter for up to the minute updates!

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Spartan Chassis Plant Tour (Part 3)

2011-05-24T23:50:00.000-04:00

One of the last items on the tour, (besides the military division where we did not have access) was the production of Isuzu “small” chassis equipped with gasoline engines. These are similar to the ones GM built prior to their reorganization. All gas engine chassis have a Spartan frame rail and body and a GM power train. The plant is running overtime to keep up the production. Some are being converted to run on natural gas or propane and EPA testing is currently underway for certification. There is no doubt that this mode of transport will become very popular with tradesman and delivery companies. There was even a crewcab model which is popular with landscapers so that they can take their crew along to the jobsite. Ultimately the hope is that they will be able to build the diesel models currently made in Japan and shipped to North America. Spartan is also shipping fire trucks to China and has begun training there as well. It looks like the economy is slowing coming back in the USA and the various interests they have developed in emerging economies will ensure this company prosper and grow in their southern Michigan location.

Owner as well as technician training is available in the extensive training facility located in Plant one (the service center) This four day course shows the owner the many subassemblies on a typical coach as well as how various components operate and are serviced. In addition a complete walkthrough of your coach is included with many helpful hints and techniques provided to make the owner experience even better.

All in all, this tour was a very informative and encouraging one. -- R.L.

This is part 3 of a 3 part series

Click here to go to Part 1.

Click here to go to Part 2.

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A Surprise Encounter at Wakarusa, Indiana

2011-05-24T12:01:00.002-04:00

While staying in Elkhart, IN prior to attending the Family Motor Coach Association’s (FMCA) Great Lakes Area Spring Spree (G.L.A.S.S.) Rally, I took a short trip to Wakarusa, IN home to a large Monaco production complex. While in the downtown area I heard the whine of an electric vehicle slowing down. I looked up to see a unique, white van approaching the stoplight. As it pulled around the corner, the unmistakable whine of an electric powertrain could be heard. I recalled that there had been plans to produce electric vehicles in the Elkhart area and recalled seeing a very new RV dealership facility that had been closed in the downturn with plans to reopen it as a sales store for electric vehicles. As I drove over in the direction of the dealership, I wound my way through the Navistar/Monaco production complex. It was obvious that towables and Class C RV’s were being built to meet the new market demand.

As I approached the dealership, I saw a number of the vans similar to the one I had seen on the road. A portion of a Navistar plant was obviously producing these vehicles. They were white with distinctive black accents, taller than the typical “North American” full sized van (similar in height to the European designed Mercedes/Freightliner model). Their width was about ⅓ narrower, featuring a large windshield and single wiper. The front end was distinguished by a very modern looking, swooping fascia with projector style lighting set in a black accent panel. Ample black panels accented the body look. The single entry door was on the curbside and a rear rollup door was in the rear. All in all it was a very stylish, functional design.

With my mind spinning about how this could be utilized to create a unique class B RV, I drove past this facility to the dealership which was completely fenced off, although all of the signage was still on the building and on a street side sign. It was being offered for “For Lease”. Changes in the market are slowly working their way through, with early adopters becoming casualties of change, yet there are glimmers of hope for a bright future showing up.

My trip so far has allowed me to see some unique, smaller, purpose designed trucks which will run on LP gas (propane), Natural Gas, and electricity. Can a “green“ RV be far behind? We’ll keep following this trend. -- R.L.

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