RV Insider

Neat little tip

2010-04-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

Some people think that just because your unit slows down when you apply your RV trailer brakes that they are all working properly, however this could be far from true. A friend showed me a sure way to check to ensure each brake is doing its fair share of the work, by using a simple magnetic compass.

Have your helper hold the compass about three inches below the wheel hub, close enough to the rim without touching it. Now, activate the trailer brake from inside the cab. If the compass needle starts moving erratically, then that wheel brake is working. Do the same with each wheel, ensuring the compass needle has settled down from the previous test before testing the next wheel.

If any of your RV trailer brakes magnets fail to move the needle, then that brake magnet is not doing its job. In that case, either try to find the problem, or take it to your nearest RV technician to have them troubleshoot the problem.

If all of your RV trailer brake magnets fail the test, check your brake control, trailer wire connections and if your truck is equipped with a tow package, check the fuse box and replace any blown fuses. Remember to check all wiring harnesses and connector plugs, sometimes it can be just that simple and could save you a costly repair bill.

2010-03-15T06:22:00.001-07:00

How To: Fun Family Rv Vacation Part Two!!!

By: Greg

6. Flexibility: In an RV, you have the flexibility to change locations if you get the whim. But take this with a grain of salt. For popular destinations, you may not be able to pick up and find another campground without a reservation. You also want to strike the right balance between seeing different areas, the amount of time spent driving and ensuring you have enough time to relax. Cautions aside, an RV can give you a lot of freedom and spontaneity. RV travel appeals to an inner pioneering spirit and allows you to create your own adventure as you go along your way. You can explore the country at your own pace or take off for last minute mini-vacations, tailgating events and weekend trips.

7. Affordability: The question of whether it is cheaper to take an RV vacation doesn't have a "one size fits all" answer. The comparison really depends on the type of vacations you would take instead, as well as the way in which you plan to RV. For a one-time trip, you can compare the costs of renting a suitable RV to the costs of hotels, airfare or other means of travel. Or if you are considering regular RV vacations, you may want to purchase a motorhome or towable trailer. In this case, you would need to factor in operating costs, maintenance and the purchase price. In an RV, you can save money by cooking meals at home vs. dining out. You can minimize expenses if you take advantage of activities and amenities already included in the campground rate. Fuel expenses can be managed by reducing the distances traveled and staying longer at a given campground or park.

8. Driving the RV: Driving yourself gives you control over where you go and the pace of your travel. You don't have the hassle of airline counters and keeping to schedules. You can stop and take a break when you choose. You don't need a special license to drive an RV. Sure, it takes some getting used to -- but the number of RVs on the road should tell you that it is doable. Practice on your own (or with one other person) before you load up your passengers. Take advantage of any classes available through your dealer or one of the many RV organizations.

9. How about a relaxing vacation for a change? How many times have you returned from a trip saying you need a vacation from the vacation? Now don\'t kid yourself - if you are the type who likes to schedule all the details of a trip, that's not going to change simply because you are traveling in an RV. But in choosing an RV vacation, you may shift your thinking and be more apt to use your time off as an opportunity to truly relax and unwind.

10. Test out the RV Lifestyle: The RV vacation may serve as a test drive to gauge your overall interest in the RV lifestyle. There are RVers who spend several weeks per year in RV travel. Other RVers take off for months. Snowbirds are RVers who make an annual trek to warmer climates for the winter season. And then there are fulltime RVers whose only home is their RV. Many of these people started out by vacationing in an RV as a way to try out the RV lifestyle.

About the Author

(ArticlesBase SC #1986187)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - How To: Fun Family Rv Vacation Part Two!!!

2010-03-06T06:02:00.000-08:00

http://www.rvlifemag.com/file346/allaccess346.html

2010-03-01T07:03:00.001-08:00

Even though we here at Compass RV Centre own a trailer ourselves we do recognize that some people love the RV lifestyle but are limited in time and resources. Therefore owning a RV is not in the cards right now. Why pay "X" number of dollars a month to own one when you only use it for a week or two? Rental programs are the best of both worlds.
You can choose a trailer that suits your family, stock it with food and drink, saving hundreds of dollars over other vacation styles and enjoy the close relationships with your family that sometimes get lost with other forms of vacationing. And when you are done you are done. No more monthly payments, just memories.
A one or two week RV vacation will provide you and your family with a great relaxing vacation and summer camp like memories for the kids at a fraction of the cost of commercial vacations. Just think what a hot dog costs at the ballpark vs the cost of spider-dogs over the campfire!!
Call or e-mail now to start your vacation
Greg

2010-02-25T14:02:00.001-08:00

2010-02-25T09:15:00.000-08:00

2010-02-25T09:09:00.001-08:00

Slideshow test

2010-02-25T09:05:00.000-08:00

docs.google.com/present/view?id=dd7kks2x_2gvr2n4t9

2010-02-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

2010-02-12T06:36:00.001-08:00

How To: Fun Family Rv Vacations

By: Greg

Perhaps you have wondered about taking a RV vacation. It seems like fun and you'd like to try it, but you aren't sure if it's for you. Well, it's a growing industry. As baby boomers take to the road, the RVing pastime and lifestyle are becoming increasingly popular. If you have a hint of the RV itch, then here are 10 common reasons for taking an RV vacation:

1. Getting Back to Nature: If you are interested in the great outdoors, an RV is a great way to vacation. You can visit state or national parks, tour famous landmarks and simply enjoy some fresh air and natural settings. Take a hike or go fishing. Try white water rafting or canoeing. Play some golf, go swimming, ride your bike. Get some exercise or simply do nothing but enjoy your surroundings.

2. The Comforts of Home: In an RV, you can have the best of both worlds. Enjoy the great outdoors with more creature comforts than tent camping. Whether you own an RV or try a rental, most RVs are well equipped. You will likely have a kitchen with microwave, fridge and stove, a TV and VCR, beds, living and dining areas and bathroom with shower. Many RVs have slide out rooms that increase the living area at the touch of a button. You can sit outside under your awning, get out of the rain if the weather changes, and turn on the air conditioner if it gets too hot.

3. Family Matters: Family members of all ages tend to connect with each other when they are away from their normal routine enjoying a simpler lifestyle. Remember that family togetherness can be a double-edged sword. While the RV is comfortable, it is a small living area for a large family. If you are renting, bear this in mind in choosing the size of your rental RV. During the day, try to spend time outdoors or in different activities, so that each family member gets a bit of personal space and time for themselves. But the minor logistics can be managed. The general consensus among RVing families is that an RV vacation tends to bring the family closer together with more communication and the sharing of good times.

4. Cool for Kids: An RV vacation can be a great way to travel with children. They can go out to play or take part in campground activities. There are likely to be other kids to meet and new places to explore. Children of all ages will enjoy an old-fashioned campfire complete with stories, songs and stargazing. And most kids think it\'s pretty cool to be in an RV "home on wheels".

5. Campgrounds: There are many choices in campgrounds and RV parks. In peak season and tourist areas, you should make reservations. Look for the amenities that are important to you. Campgrounds may have swimming pools, lakes, boating, fishing ponds, miniature golf, playgrounds, hiking trails, game rooms, walking or bike paths, tennis courts and activities for kids and adults. You may find dances, barbeques, contests or other entertainment. RV Clubs are worth joining to get campground discounts and other services. Consider the size and setting of the campsites and check out overall campground ratings in campground directories. Also consider proximity to other attractions or landmarks that you want to visit.

Part 1 of 2 Stay Tuned

About the Author

Greg and his wife Leasa have spent many years in the rv service business Greg has recently left his position at a large facility dealership to own and operate Compass RV Centre a service oriented rv business in the small town of Atwood, Ontario

(ArticlesBase SC #1851226)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - How To: Fun Family Rv Vacations

2010-02-11T11:55:00.001-08:00

Don't Get Cheated: Rv Service Repairs

By: Greg

Lack of RV maintenance is the backbone of the RV business. Dealers count on the fact that RV owners do not or cannot look after their coach. After many years in the RV business and as a trailer owner myself I speak from experience. When not actually using the trailer it's out of sight and out of mind.

There are a few key maintenance issue's that will keep any serious repair bills from denting your pocket book.

Your RV (of any style) is full of holes! Yes, that's right. Every window, every vent etc was cut into the RV. Through these cut-outs water can enter. So, how can you save your trailer from the water damage we see almost every older camper suffering from? Check your seams and seals and re-caulk regularly. Gently scrape of the old and replace with new. This simple job can not only save you money because a dealer will pay a junior tech to do the job and charge you full shop rate but it can save your trailer from de-lamination.

Winterize your RV before it begins to freeze outside. Many times I've been asked, "I still want to use my trailer this fall, will it be ok if it freeze's outside?" Well simply, water freeze's at 0c or 32F. A jug of antifreeze is $2. A water heater is $300 or more. It's not a difficult job.

Battery care and maintenance. This one is simple too. Don't leave your battery on the RV in the freezing cold of winter. It will freeze and expand. There is much more to battery care but this article is just for simple reminders we all forget. Batteries are expensive.

Don't leave food in your trailer when not in use. Critters will get in. The damage they can do is huge. Dealers love charging for mattresses, drape's or canvas because a mouse made its home in their trailer for the winter.

I know this list is short but these are 4 items that can save you thousands! Greg

About the Author

(ArticlesBase SC #1845780)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Don't Get Cheated: Rv Service Repairs

2010-02-11T11:36:00.001-08:00

Here Goes

2010-01-27T10:26:00.000-08:00

Welcome all to my first blog post. I intend to use this as a vehicle to help RVer's who are tired of service and customer care found at most (not all) recreational vehicle dealerships. Repairs to one's RV, be it a motorhome or a pop-up camper should not drain the pocketbook. Most rver's are paying for the dealership to train their "technicians" on the job. Hopefully I can help people by steering them in the right direction. My goal at Compass RV is to help RVer's find their direction.
thanks
this is just a little post I'm making to learn how to blog. I'll be adding to it shortly to explain who I am and why I want to do this.
Greg
www.compassrv.com

RV Insider

Neat little tip

How To: Fun Family Rv Vacation Part Two!!!

Slideshow test

How To: Fun Family Rv Vacations

Don't Get Cheated: Rv Service Repairs

Recommended reading

Here Goes