RV UNIVERSITY - News Issue 26

The RV Education 101 Newsletter
Learning RV's the Easy Way by Video
Volume 26 - April 2006

KOA campgrounds are excited to team with the leader in RV education and show their support for the RV industry by endorsing RV Education 101!
View KOA Clip

`Knowledge is of two kinds. We know the subject ourselves, or we know where we can find information on it. ~Samuel Johnson

The signs of spring are everywhere. Trees and flowers are starting to bloom, the days are longer and warmer weather is on its way. Springtime is a welcome sight for RVers everywhere. With it, comes the start of another great camping season, full of new experiences and meaningful time spent with family and friends.

Part of enjoying another great camping season is preparing your RV for it. It will be time well spent, when you take your first RV trip of the season, and don't have any problems with the batteries, tires, appliances or anything else. Check out my feature article this month on “Spring Preparation” to assist you in getting your RV ready for another season of traveling and camping.

We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of our new RV. It's kind of like a child waiting for Christmas, or their birthday to get here. It's only a month away but it seems like it takes forever. We already have three trips planned for May, June & July.

We have been working on some exciting projects too. The thought occurred to me a while back to replace our monthly RV newsletter tip with an actual video clip tip. The reasoning behind this is sometimes it's easier to understand a topic when you can view it rather than read about it. Of course this is the premise behind all of the titles in our DVD library too. I plan to include one or two RV video tips with our newsletter each month. We will archive the clips on our website so it will be possible for you to go back and view them whenever you like. Keep in mind that these are just short clips and it's difficult to cover a great deal of information in 2 or 3 minutes. You need to have a Flash Video Player to view the video clips. If you don't have a Flash Player you can go here to download the latest version for free. http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash&P2_Platform=Win32&P3_Browser_Version=MSIE

If you have any ideas for future topics you would like to see in a short video clip format e-mail me and I'll see what I can do. Mark@rveducation101.com

Check out the “Video Tip of the Month” below to watch the first several RV video tips and keep checking back in each month's newsletter to see what's new! If you know of anybody else who would be interested in receiving our free newsletter and monthly RV video tips send them here so they can get signed up too.

In many parts of the country April is a safe month to de-winterize your RV and perform your annual spring preparation checks. I am enclosing a checklist from my “Checklists for RVers” e-book for those of you who have the bug, and want to get your RV ready for its first trip of the season.

After a long winter sleep we finally decide that spring is here for good and it is safe to prep our RV for this years camping season. Now that the decision is made we need to figure out what steps to take to prepare the coach and the chassis for camping and traveling. If you're like me, you want to have some type of logical sequence to follow rather then haphazardly checking the unit out. This is a simple checklist to use from my Checklists for RVers E-book so that nothing is overlooked. I prefer to do the majority of spring preparation myself. If you're more comfortable having someone else do it contact a reputable RV dealer and schedule an appointment to have it done.

* Depending on how your unit was winterized it will need to be de-winterized. Read my De-winterizing article in the March 2006 Newsletter

* Inspect for water leaks. A quick and easy way to test your RV plumbing system for leaks is to turn the 12-volt water pump on when there is water in the fresh water holding tank. Once it pressurizes the system and shuts off it should not come back on until you open a water faucet. If the pump does come on sporadically, even for short periods of time, water is probably leaking somewhere.

* Remove any tape or protective covering that may have been put over LP gas vents or outside vents to keep insects or rodents out. Check any mousetraps you may have put out. Open all doors and compartments and check for rodent intrusion and water damage.

* Wash the unit thoroughly. This is a good time to inspect the roof and body seams, and window sealant for cracking that would allow water to get in. Consult a dealer for sealants compatible with these materials. Click here to read my article on Inspecting for Water Damage 101

* Inspect the operation of the awning and check the awning fabric. Clean the fabric and let it dry thoroughly before rolling up. Click here to read my article on RV Awning Use, Care & Maintenance

* Inspect the tires for signs of dry rot and wear. Inflate all tires to the recommended COLD tire pressure. Check the lug nuts for proper torque. Click here to read my article on RV Tires

* Plug in any appliances that you unplugged for storage and replace any dry cell batteries you may have removed. This is a good time to put new batteries in items like smoke alarms & carbon monoxide detectors.

* Test the operation of the carbon monoxide alarm, LP gas leak detector and smoke alarm. Click here to read my article on Basic RV Safety

* Check the fire extinguisher. Be sure it is fully charged. Click here to read my article on RV Fire Safety

* Reset any breakers you may have turned off. If you removed any fuses for storage re-install them.

* Clean or replace air conditioner filters if it wasn't done prior to storage and remove any covers that were put over air conditioners.

* If you removed the coach and chassis batteries for storage install them. Whether they were removed or not check the electrolyte levels, clean the terminals and clamps, and check the charge level in all batteries. Recharge batteries as necessary. Click here to read my article on RV Batteries

* Check the operation of the electric steps if applicable. Lubricate step mechanism.

* Test the operation of the hydraulic jacks if applicable. Check hydraulic fluid level.

* If you didn't change the oil and filters in the generator prior to storage this is a good time to do it. Inspect the generator exhaust system for damage prior to starting. Start and run the generator for one hour with at least a half rated load on it. Consult the generators owner manual for load ratings.

* Turn the generator off and plug the unit into shore power. Turn the refrigerator on in the electric mode. Allow sufficient time to cool and check for proper operation. Click here to read my article on RV Refrigerator Efficiency

* Turn the refrigerator off, leave the doors open and allow sufficient time for it to get to room temperature so it can be checked in the gas mode.

* Before I use the LP gas system I have a leak test and gas operating pressure test preformed. A qualified technician with the proper equipment should do these tests. Click here to read my article on LP Gas

* Once this is accomplished turn the LP gas valve on and check the operation of all LP gas appliances. Be sure the water heater is full of water before testing the water heater. If a gas appliance is not operating properly have it inspected by a qualified technician. Insects are attracted to the odorant added to LP gas and build nests that can affect the appliances from operating properly.

* If your unit was in long-term storage and you didn't change the engine oil and filter prior to storage this would be a good time to do it

* Check all fluid levels in the transmission, power steering, engine coolant, windshield washer and brakes. Consult vehicle owner's manual.

* Start engine and check for proper readings on all gauges. Check for proper operation of dash air conditioner.

* Check the condition of the windshield wiper blades and replace them if necessary.

* In addition to this if you have a pop up or travel trailer the wheel bearings and brakes (if equipped) should be inspected at least once annually. Inspect any canvas for dry rot and tears; inspect all hitch work and coupler for damage. Inspect the breakaway switch and pigtail for proper operation.

This list is not all-inclusive, but it seems to work for me. Now for the fun part, load your clothes, food, and personal belongings, hit the road and have fun exploring in your RV.

Batteries and battery maintenance is always an issue when it comes to RVs, especially after sitting in storage for long periods of time. A big part of taking care of your RV batteries is to understand more about batteries in the first place. VDC Electronics Inc. has a website that offers some great information on deep cycle batteries. You will need to have Adobe Reader to read this article>http://www.vdcelectronics.com/press_room/Deep%20Cycle%20Battery.pdf

I personally use a product called the Battery Minder by www.vdcelectronics.com whenever our RV is in storage. It is a 3-mode charger, maintainer & conditioner and it actually extends the performance and life of your RV batteries and will never overcharge them.

The RV Book is your personal guide to understanding and enjoying your RV. "RV Expert" Mark Polk turns complex into easy, making your entire experiences safe, fun & stress free. RV's give us the freedom to go wherever we want, whenever we want. But, nothing will ruin a trip or a vacation quicker than not understanding how to properly use and maintain your RV.

Mark Polk, the author of The RV Book said "Buying an RV is a major investment and it can be overwhelming when just starting out. In the book I tried to touch on all aspects of RV ownership; from selecting and buying the right RV to setting it up at your favorite campground. What type of RV is right for you? How do you tow or drive an RV? How do you safely use an RV? How do you take care of your new RV? I have researched and gathered all of this information, into one place, to simplify the entire process of RV ownership. Whether you own an RV now, or you are getting ready to purchase one in the future, I know that by reading The RV Book you will feel more comfortable about using an RV."

For Pop-Ups, Travel Trailers, Motorhomes and everything in between. After 20 years of fulltime RVing, I still discovered new information while reading The RV Book. Mark's book is so well written and informative... he patiently explains each basic necessity that every RVer should be aware of to assure safe operation of their RV. -Peggi McDonald, author of RV Living in the 21st Century

Here are two RV Video Tips. Be sure and check back each month to see what's new!

RV Education 101 proudly announces:

Participation with KOA on one of the largest outdoors-related trivia contests that exists starting this summer. RV Education 101 is donating $18,500 worth of prizes for the summer promotion. Many of the trivia question answers can be found in Marks articles that are listed on KOA.com, so study up:

New Trivia Contest Will Challenge Camper

The KOA Camper Trivia Challenge, which will run from May 1 through August 13, offers more than $70,000 in daily, weekly and monthly prizes, including free camping from KOA, camping cook books from Campfire Café, family travel games from Patch Products, merchandise from Camping World and "how to" books and DVD's from RV Education 101 and Gibbsmith Publishing. "This is going to be one of the largest outdoors-related trivia contests that exists," said Tracy Kern, KOA’s director of digital marketing. "We can't wait to watch players win prizes every day as they test their camping IQ."

RV Education 101 is pleased to be part of such a fun new online RV learning challenge! ..More

http://www.rveducation101.com/PressRoom/KOATriviaContestPDF.pdf

We initially planned to attend the Rally, but now we don't have our RV until the first week of May. Read more about what's happening at Daytona from April 7-10^th>

Read about a controversy over using an RV as a home in between trips. What are your thoughts, should this couple be allowed to use their RV as a temporary home or not? I personally don't see what the big deal is>

Is there another state that you would like to visit or maybe another country? Not really sure where to go or what to expect when you get there, maybe our RV Travel Videos/DVDs can give you some ideas of where to go.

If you haven't played the RV Lotto lately you don't know what you're missing. As of April 2006 we have given away over 1,540 free RV related prizes. We designed the RV Lotto just for RVers, and to help promote small RV companies who offer unique products for RVers. In return, the companies we help to promote offer the FREE RV prizes to you, the RV Lotto players. It truly is a win, win situation for everybody. When you register to play we will never give your email address to anybody and it is only used to announce the weekly winning numbers. What are you waiting for? Register and start playing and winning today.

Learn the biggest mistakes RV buyers make in this 50-minute DVD from RV Travel and the Better Business Bureau, so you can avoid making them yourself. Information for this program was developed through extensive research; examination of consumer complaints to the Better Business Bureau; and interviews with industry leaders, dealers, RV repair professionals and actual RVers. Viewing this Better Business Bureau DVD is the very best insurance you can get to avoiding making some of the classic and often costly mistakes new RVers make.

I just bought your Travel Trailer/ 5th Wheel Box Set (can't wait to watch the DVD's). We ordered a new Flagstaff 831 RLSS TT and will take delivery on 15 April. I did a search on "Google" to find you and was quite impressed with your site. You offered exactly what we were looking for. I know for a fact that I will be ordering from you again. We can't wait to get "EDUCATED".

I can't thank you enough for the "Checklist for RVers" (instant e-book). I can honestly say that the both of you are well seasoned when it comes to RVing. It's evident by the way you presented all this valuable information. You laid out everything in laymen's terms. I feel that this should be sitting on book store shelves. You deserve a "HIGH 5" for all your efforts. I am totally devoted to your web site. Keep up the great work.

Pat and her husband, Francis, live in Holland, Ohio, and love cooking and entertaining their friends and family. Her new cookbook, "Campground Cooking", is a collection of more than 200 fun, easy recipes designed for RV cooking. Pat says all of the recipes can be made using an RV oven, crock-pot, microwave or electric skillet. She even has sections on cooking with foil and recipes for grilling. Many of the recipes can be adapted for cooking over an open fire, and it's great for busy cooks at home.

Everything You Need to Know About RV Travel to Canada is on the 'Net someplace, but it takes me a month to pull it all together. And as a Canadian with 21 years of Fulltime RV travels, I know what I am looking for. Now is time to let your fingers do the planning for your next trip north of the USA Border. The mega number of websites, phone numbers plus extensive general information in RV Travel to Canada simplifies your planning and adds piece of mind to an RV Adventure in the friendly country to the north . All this for only $12.95. Instant Download PDF file.. BUY NOW !!

Peggi has taken the best of her internationally-acclaimed first book and has revamped and updated it to reflect the changing technology and rules in post-9/11 North America. This book is for the new or experienced RVer. There are so many tips from “how to” subjects as well as practical advice on "what to do" when you have medical problems on the road, and how to choose an emergency roadside service. The security tips for your house while you are away and health & safety tips are just a couple of subjects out of many that are invaluable and give you peace of mind! There is so much information we couldn't possibly list it all.

Is your RV on a Freightliner chassis? Would you like to learn more about how your RV works inside and out? If so Camp Freightliner might be for you. Read more>

Come Camp With Us Day 2006, Join KOA For Another Special Day of Camping! Reservations

Are you spending enough quality time with your family and friends? At Kampgrounds of America, we know how much you value that time. That's why we want to invite you to stay at any of our participating KOA Kampgrounds for FREE the night of Friday, May 12, for the third annual Come Camp with us Day. Your KOA stay can begin on any day prior to May 12, but May 12 must be included in the reservation.

This FREE day of camping is a great chance to get your RV or tent ready for the summer season. Or if you haven't experienced the joys of camping, come on out and give it a try on May 12 - absolutely free, with no strings attached!

This year, KOA is partnering with Thales Navigation, makers of Magellan navigation systems, to offer those who reserve a campsite online for Come Camp with us Day a chance to win one of 14 free Magellan navigation systems to be given away, one each week. Thales Navigation has also pledged a substantial cash donation to support KOA Care Camps for children with cancer. Everyone making a reservation for the May 12 Come Camp with us Day will automatically be entered to win a free Magellan navigation system.

We're giving away more than half a million dollars in free camping on May 12. Campsite quantities are limited, so don't wait.

Free-will donation boxes will be available at KOA stores on May 12 for campers to make donations to KOA Care Camps. Care Camps is a non-profit charity that helps send kids with cancer and their siblings to one of 34 special summer camps where they can enjoy camping and recreational experiences together.

No other special offers may apply, although regular Value Kard discounts can be applied to all other days of your stay.

Please read your generator Operator's Manual carefully so you understand all the precautions for safe, efficient operation. Most accidents occur from failing to follow fundamental safety rules. In general: Read More.

Happy Camper Half Price Camping Club announces the best-ever offer to current members.

If you're already a Happy Camper member, send a friend to join the RV club and get your next year club membership FREE... Happy Camper Discount RV Club is not affiliated with Good Sam, Camp Club USA or Passport America. We provide 50% (half price) camping in every state, plus a free online trip planner and an RV Education 101 e-book.

The Three Primary Systems of an RV How does an RV work? How do you get hot water, cold food and satellite TV when you're out in the middle of no where. How is it possible to use a microwave when you're driving down the road and what makes the shower work when you aren't even connected to a water source? This e-book has these answers and more!

How to Buy an RV, Before you Buy it Looking for your first RV? Don't buy it before you have read this e-book. Take control of your RV buying experience, not to mention saving thousands of dollars.

The Complete Guide to Dinghy Towing This e-book will explain everything you need to know about towing behind a motorhome in an easy to understand format. Our goal with this e-book is to help you learn how to properly tow a dinghy, and to assist you in making the right decisions to meet your particular towing needs.

A Collection of RV Tips Recently updated, with over thirty new tips added. There are tips that will save the RVer time and money, and some that will prevent untimely, costly repairs to your RV. Some of the tips are common sense, some you learn from experience, and some were passed on from other RVers.

What you need to Know, Before you Tow This e-book is packed with information on subjects like properly matching your tow vehicle and trailer, trailer weights, backing techniques that really work, proper hitch work, towing tips, driving tips, controlling sway, weighing your RV and much more

We have made it easier for you to learn about YOUR RV! We took our individual Travel Trailer and Motorhome DVD titles and put them in sets with other titles from our library that apply. There are three value packs to choose from and each value pack includes four RV training DVD's, which equates to almost three hours of one-on-one RV instruction. Not only does this eliminate the guess work as to which DVDs should go together, but you also SAVE a significant amount of money with the value set discount. After watching this complete RV DVD value set by RV expert Mark Polk, you will master your own RV experiences. Another great thing is this only counts as one item, so you only pay $4.95 for S/H!

The 3 value sets currently available are: Class A Motorhome, Class C Motorhome & Travel Trailer/5^th Wheel. Each set includes 4 DVDs. Get your RV DVD value set today!

When you think of the East Coast you usually think of big cities, but there are many natural areas that have been set aside as well. Our adventure begins in Virginia Beach as we follow the coast south through the Outer Banks of North Carolina. One-third of all the saltwater marshes along the East Coast are located in Georgia. An eco-tour explains how important the marsh is to the creatures that inhabit it, like oysters, crabs, wading birds, and manatees. The Everglades is the place to visit for natural wonders. The national park is one of the most unusual in the country. The East Coast contains many natural wonders that most people are not aware of, come along for the ride! by John Holod

Everything a dog might need in an emergency whether at home or on the road. The Canine Companion kit contains 42 first-aid, health care, wound care, bandaging, and comfort/safety items; with easy to follow instructions written by Dr. Bloomfield, specifically for each product. RV Education 101 feels this kit is a smart necessity if you are going to travel with your dogs. Canine Companion - "Emergency First Aid and Travel Kit for Dogs"

Be sure and check out “RV” the movie, with Robin Williams, when it hits the big screen the end of this month. In the mean time go here to watch the movie trailer>

This is a very popular title and now it has been completely updated and revised! Quickly and easily locate rest areas, welcome centers, roadside turnouts, and scenic vistas along America's Interstate highways. Find out where these areas are and the facilities available such as restrooms, phones, picnic tables, vending machines, RV dump stations, and designated pet walk areas.

Rest Areas & Welcome Centers also includes Cracker Barrel locations and discount stores like Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, K-Mart, and Target. Easily find travel centers like AmBest Truck Stops, Flying J Travel Plazas, Love's, Petro, Pilot, and TA Travel Centers. These places welcome RVers with services such as propane, diesel fuel, restaurants, and dump stations. Some even offer free overnight parking!

Also included is state tourism contact information, a convenient list of toll-free numbers for hotels and motels across America, and an RV dump station locator. Rest Areas & Welcome Centers is a valuable resource for anyone that travels America's Interstate highways. 240 pages, a must have book for every RVer.

Our goal with this monthly newsletter is to provide you with helpful information to make all of your RV experiences more enjoyable. I left my position as an RV Sales and F&I manager in 2000 to start my own company, RV Education 101. We produce educational videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV. The reason I left my job was due to my concern about the lack of educational and safety awareness material available to the RV consumer, in other words, you. We are a small company. My wife Dawn left her position in RV sales to help start the company and is our Sales and Marketing Director. We currently have a 28-foot Class C motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 9 and Josh 15, both avid RVers and two dogs, Gracie and Buck. Gracie is the good one. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit our website> www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101 Newsletter © Copyright 2004, 2005, 2006 Mark J. Polk, except where indicated otherwise. All rights reserved worldwide. Reprint only with permission from copyright holder(s). All trademarks are property of their respective owners. All contents provided as is. Advertisers are solely responsible for ad content.

RV Education 101 Newsletter is an opt-in ezine available by subscription only. We neither use nor endorse the use of spam. Your email address will ONLY be used to distribute this newsletter and will NEVER be sold or given to any other entity!!

RV Education 101
3969 Stedman Cedar Creek Road
Fayetteville, NC 28312
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