Helpful Hints for RVers

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.

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 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 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 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 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 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 David & Virginia Erlandson on February 20, 2010 at 2:18pm

How do full time RV'rs get mail: It has taken some time, but all banking is done electronic, no mail needed. Family members and people I associate with have all been taught not to mail anything to us. We have a family member that will send us mail if needed. But lately its only been junk mail. We have been full timing now for 12 years, and got the system perfected. E-mail is our main communications as well as cell phone. It can be done, but you have to train everyone in your circle not to send any Birthday or Holidays cards.

Comment by John on February 21, 2010 at 2:04pm

When you buy new tires....Since 2000, the week and year the tire was produced has been provided by the last four digits of the Tire Identification Number with the 2 digits being used to identify the week immediately preceding the 2 digits used to identify the year.
For instance.....

if the Tire ID Code is LMLR5107 Then the manufacture date is the 51st week of 2007

Comment by John on February 21, 2010 at 2:09pm

Most automakers agree that 10 years is the maximum safe lifespan for any tire, including a spare that has never been used. When buying new tires, it's wise to check their birth date. Treat them like milk: Your family might finish a gallon before its expiration date, but then again, it might not. Why take the chance? For the same money, you should get the freshest milk — or tires — you can find. You might wear the tires out long before they're due for retirement, but why buy a set whose clock is already ticking?

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