Welcome to RV UNIVERSITY, Anonymous Thursday, March 28 2024 @ 10:05 am UTC

RV University This Week 10/17/2011

  • Monday, October 17 2011 @ 02:22 pm UTC
  • Contributed by:
RV News and Stories


RV University this Week
Your weekly source for interesting
RV articles, tips, tricks, video clips and advice

From the Industry Leader in RV Education:
RV Education 101® - also known as: RV 101™
U of RV Journal #115 - October 17, 2011

RV Education 101®, the premier provider of educational videos, books and RV information for the RVing public, was founded over a decade ago by Mark Polk, who started in the RV industry as a teenaged apprentice technician. "I really enjoyed working around RVs and performing basic service on customers’ units”, Polk explained. “You could say I was bit by the RV bug early on.” RV Education 101 quickly established themselves as THE go to resource for RVers. With hundreds of thousands of training and informational DVDs and books sold, along with his many TV appearances as the RV Savvy Guy, Mark Polk is recognized as THE authority for everything RV.

Bookmark and Share

“I am learning all the time. The tombstone will be my diploma.”
~Eartha Kitt





by Mark Polk






Hi Everybody,

Fall is a beautiful time of the year to take an RV trip. If you live, or travel to certain parts of the country you can enjoy the spectacular autumn colors with the changing fall foliage. I remember as a kid, growing up in North Central Pennsylvania, my grandmother would load us up in the car each year in mid-October and drive through the rolling hills of Pa, taking in all the beautiful scenery.

I have always enjoyed this time of year. The cool crisp air, changing colors and hints that winter is approaching. What a great time for an RV trip, even if it's just for the weekend. Load the food, some extra blankets and warm clothes and head to the mountains or to the beach. Enjoy a hotdog or marshmallow over the open fire as the sun goes down, or a hot cup of coffee sitting outside the RV early in the morning. It really doesn't matter where you go, just go, and enjoy this wonderful time of year in your house on wheels. It doesn't get any better than that!

Until next week, plan your trip, travel safe and enjoy your RV experiences. Remember, getting there is half the fun!
Mark Polk

**REMINDER! Like the RV Education 101 Facebook page. We post helpful RV information often and would also appreciate feedback, tips, RV related photos and comments from you!


RV Poll Results
Every few months I like to post some of our previous RV poll results. I think it makes for some interesting reading. You can see how other RV enthusiasts responded to various RV related topics and it might make you consider an aspect about RVing you haven’t considered in the past. Keep in mind that these RV poll’s are only intended to give me some idea of what our newsletter readers are interested in, how they use their RVs, and of course just for fun. Read the article on RV Poll Results





Check out this week's poll: "Do you have a functioning carbon monoxide detector in your RV?" To participate in the poll, look on the left hand column (here at RV University) towards the top



Jackson Hole Daily- Rules drafted to allow trailers
Teton County planning staff released the first draft of a set of rules Thursday that would allow campground owners to bring recreational park trailers onto their properties, albeit with special permission from the county. ........

RV’s Go Green (Or At Least Try)
Definitely not your uncle’s Winnebago! And being green with envy isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when talking about environmental-friendly mobile homes. Luxury or comfort aren’t the words that come to mind either, but words like cramped, or small, or automotive usually don’t instill satisfaction inside the hearts of potential residents who’re use to a home that can’t get up and drive off. ........

Competition for campsites grows
Barbara and Duncan Smiths' weekend camping trip at Bodega Dunes State Campground was a little quieter this month because a group of friends who join them every year couldn't get camping reservations..........

Jellystone owners away at time of blaze
AUSTIN — When Tammy Westrich, co-owner of Jellystone Park, saw the remnants of the main lodge after it burned down early Sunday morning, she knew right away she wanted to rebuild..........




RV Savvy Tips by Mark Polk

In RV’s Carbon Monoxide Gas usually results from:

  • Exhaust leaks from either a vehicle engine or a generator.
  • Improper use of portable gas powered heaters.
  • Someone else’s vehicle or generator when camping in close quarters.
  • Malfunctioning or unvented LP gas appliances

    If your RV doesn’t have a carbon monoxide detector you need to purchase a battery operated carbon monoxide detector designed for use in RV’s. Test the carbon monoxide detector every time you use the RV. Replace the carbon monoxide detector batteries when you change clocks for daylight savings time.

    Here are some more important notes about Carbon Monoxide:

  • Inspect the generator exhaust system before using the generator, every time.
  • Avoid leaving windows down and roof vents open when in close proximity to vehicle and/or generator exhaust.
  • Follow all directions and safety cautions and warnings when operating gas powered heaters.
  • If you use a portable generator direct the exhaust away from the camping area.
  • Never use the range burners or oven to heat the RV!
  • When cooking with the range burners use the range fan & always leave a window cracked open for fresh air and ventilation.


    ...with Mark

    *NOTE: At Mark's discretion, material might be edited to suit a wide audience. Due to the large volume of material and correspondence we receive, individual replies might not be possible, nor can we acknowledge receipt of submitted material. Selected questions will be answered in future issues of our RV Education 101 newsletter and on our site. Thank-you for your understanding.

    Q. The silicone calking, around the door of our motorhome, was applied above the door but only extends downward about two feet on each side of the door. It was this way from the factory. Is this acceptable?
    I have some 'crinkled" wall paper on one side of the door, but no soft spots, so I am trying to make sure the original factory application was adequate.

    Mark Says: When windows and doors are installed manufacturers use a type of butyl tape to seal it from water intrusion. It is typical for them to use silicone caulking on the tops of doors and windows after they are installed as an extra preventive measure. They usually only caulk a few inches down the sides with the silicone. Also, often times when they install a door or window some of the wall treatment will crinkle, so based on what you have told me it sounds okay to me.
    It is a good idea to perform routine inspections for signs of water damage so you can catch it early.



    Want to buy an RV University t-shirt, hat or mug? Come visit our RV University store.



    Sponsors and Helpful RV Links endorsed by RV Education 101:

    Own a motorhome?
    Membership in FMCA brings with it a wealth of benefits and services
    — all specially designed to meet the needs of motorhome owners.
    The value of these benefits and services far exceeds the cost of the annual dues.
    Benefit highlights





    Camping/RV Battery Chargers- BatteryMINDers® are the new generation of SMART, pulse type "computer-on-a-chip" chargers, that safely charge and maintain all size / type / brands of batteries including starter, deep cycle and sealed types including AGM “dry” made by OPTIMA, ODYSSEY, EXIDE, INTERSTATE, et al. They do all of this without ever overcharging, no matter how long they are left on charge – days-weeks-or even months. Dubbed the chargers with "brains," they are the first to fully-automatically reverse the primary cause of early battery failure known as "sulfation". Sulfated batteries once considered beyond recovery can now be brought back to long-term useful condition. Certain models of BatteryMINDers® can more than double the useful life of new batteries.


    MBA Rental Insurance for Dealers and Consumers: MBA Rental Insurance for Dealers and Consumers: Specializing in RV Rental Motorhome Insurance Since 1978. MBA Insurance has grown into the premier Rental Insurance Agency in the country writing insurance coverage for Motor Homes, Travel Trailers, Pop-up Campers, Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Utility and Cargo Trailers, Conversion Vans, Boats and other Watercrafts.An "A" Rated Insurance Company Insuring over 2,000 Rental Dealers Nationwide.


    Explorer RV Insurance Since 1997, Explorer RV Insurance Agency has been providing custom-designed RV insurance programs for RV owners. The agency represents leading RV insurance carriers that offer products in 48 states. Explorer RV Insurance is underwritten by companies with A.M. Best ratings of "Excellent" or higher. An auto policy can’t begin to cover the complexities of an RV. You need specialty coverage like vacation liability, total loss replacement, personal effects and much more......


    KOA camping is different Our Great People make sure of that. We’re near most every attraction and national park in America. Wherever you want to go. At every one of our over 475 locations our focus is you. KOA is by far the largest group of affiliated campgrounds on the continent. From Wi-Fi and cable to fire rings and food service, KOA has you covered. Your experiences. Your enjoyment. Your memories. Your camping.


    Camping World Camping World began with one small store and a mail order business in an old farmhouse heated by a wood-burning stove. A tobacco barn served as their first warehouse. Since then, Camping World has grown into America’s leading RV accessories and service experts, bringing you everything you need for your RV, with Nationwide SuperCenters, an award-winning website, and full-color catalogs.



    The Original Equal-i-zer® Sway Control Hitch with 4-Point Sway Control™, helps the driver be in control and the passengers be at ease. It has been specially designed to tackle the three biggest problems found with conventional trailer hitches: trailer sway, weight distribution, and complicated hook-ups We continually strive to move forward and be innovative in all our activities

    FOR MEDIA & ADVERTISING Media Kit Contact Dawn Polk for Pricing
    RV Education 101® is your premier online source for learning about your RV. We are the largest online digital training provider available, offering numerous online training courses, downloads and programs. Get the RV information you want, when you want it. Happy RV learning!

    Whether you are brand new to the RV experience or a veteran of the traveled road, learn step-by-step, all the facets of RVing - from the obvious to the “I never realized that”... Go HERE to find out....


    Are you an RV dealer? RV Education 101 created a program just for your customers! The RV Orientation Online Training Program.

    This online RV training program includes an RV orientation video similar to the walk-through class you receive at the RV dealership. The RV Orientation video is 54 minutes long and is packed with information on topics like campground setup, the LP gas system, water system, wastewater system, electrical system, RV appliances, RV accessories and much more. We even added a bonus chapter on RV safety features, and some bloopers to make it more entertaining. The video is generic and covers all types of RV’s including motorized and towable RV’s. If your RV dealer does not offer this online RV training program you can purchase it here


    We also offer RV Dealer bulk discounts on our training materials. Our Walk through DVDs have helped tens of thousands of RV consumers learn how to properly operate and maintain their RVs. Hundreds of RV dealers across the country are benefiting from what our program has to offer the customer oriented RV dealership. Contact Dawn today for your RV dealership pricing: dawn@rveducation101.com






    RV Education 101 & RV University went mobile!
    Check us out on the go
    http://www.rveducation101.mobi
    &
    http://www.rvuniversity.mobi
    from your phone!. .....


    Share your thoughts & experiences with other RVers and Campers


    Money Saving DVD Sets Available

    5th Wheel Training DVD Sets
    Travel Trailer Training DVD Sets
    Class A Training DVD Sets
    Class C Training DVD Sets


    17 RV Single DVD Titles in our Library

    An Introduction to RV's
    Pop Up 101
    Travel Trailer 101
    Class A Motor Home 101
    Class C Rental / Owner
    RV Awning Use, Care and Accessories
    RV Safety Features, Tips and Tricks
    Winterizing & Storing your RV
    EZ RV Add Ons and Must Have RV Products
    Tow Your 5th Wheel Like a Pro
    Trailer Towing, Weights, Hitch Work & Backing
    Drive Your Motorhome Like a Pro
    Motorhome Towing
    RV Campground Basics
    Marks Recommended 10 minute RV Essential Items
    Deep Cycle Battery Care & Maintenance for RV's and Boats
    RV Care and Maintenance


    15 RV Instant Download E-Book Titles in our Library

    The Original Checklists for RVers
    Winterizing and Storing your RV
    THE RV BOOK now available as an ebook
    The Three Primary Systems of an RV
    Insider's Guide to Buying an RV
    RV Buyers Survival Guide
    Trailer Towing, Weights, Hitch Work & Backing
    A Collection of RV Tips
    Pop-Up Basics 101
    Dinghy Towing
    Deep Cycle Battery Care and Maintenance
    RV Awning Use and Care
    RV Safety Features, Tips and Tricks
    RV Care and Maintenance
    RV Campground Basics


    Go for the RV Gold Program
    The Go For the RV Gold program is loaded with one-on-one RV training videos, feature articles, RV tips, crossword puzzles, member discounts for RV services and RV products, quizzes, and much more. This is the only online RV training program that will teach you everything you need to know about your RV at such a reasonable cost, and totally at your leisure with no deadlines. There are customized worksheets provided for navigation, so nothing is missed or overlooked. There is a space provided for you to make notes for each topic and then a feature to print the worksheet when completed.

    At the end of the program there is a 25 question final exam. If you pass the final exam (you need a 72% or higher score) you will receive your “Go for the RV Gold” training certificate that you that you can proudly display in your home or RV. P.S. If you don’t pass the final exam, you will be given an opportunity to take it again until you do pass, so you can receive your Go for the RV Gold certificate.

    National Interstate Insurance company offers a 5% safe driver discount when you successfully complete the “Go for the RV Gold” program. Just present your “Go for the RV Gold” certificate of completion to an authorized National Interstate Insurance agent.

    The membership fee is only $49.95 per month for 3 months. Billing is on a 30 recurring basis until the final payment is made. This equates to only $12.49 for each in-depth weekly RV training course. When you select the recurring billing payment option you receive the a new RV training module each month. You can’t beat this low pricing for one-on-one RV education training in the comfort of your own home or RV. There is no driving to get to the training location, no packed classrooms and no time restraints.

    Note: There is second payment option available where you can pay the full $149.85 program price in one payment. If you select this payment option you will receive all 3 RV modules (12 weekly courses) at one time, after payment and registration.

    This program compliments our current line of RV Education 101 training dvds!


    3 payments of $49.95 or a 1 time payment of $149.85 Buy Now



  • Watch the RV Cooking Show: A virtual cooking class on wheels with an RV travel component, The RV Cooking Show takes viewers on adventures to some of the most sought-after or interesting but little-known RV locations in the country and then creates a healthy, easy, delicious destination-related dish in host Evanne Schmarder’s RV kitchen.Each less-than-10-minute episode - part travelogue, part cooking show - shares travel tips, ideas and recommendations on popular RVing locales and products then walks viewers through the preparation of a delicious destination-related dish. Past episodes include a tour of Albuquerque’s 505 Chili Factory and Huevos Rancheros, Mojitos and the Fabulous Florida Keys and a salmon dinner in conjunction with the spectacular Olympic National Park.Viewers have the option of watching the RV Cooking Show on YouTube, various RV-related websites such as Camping.com and RVDreamRadio or on the RV Cooking Show website. So as not to miss a single savory episode, viewers may subscribe to the show on YouTube or on this website. An RV industry insider, full-time RVer Ms. Schmarder connects with viewers in part by "living the (their) RV dream". She is a professional speaker, writer, foodie and unabashed explorer.


    Episode #1 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #2 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #3 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #4 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #5 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #6 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #7 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #8 of "Mark's RV Garage"


    Episode #9 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #10 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #11 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #12 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #13 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #14 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #15 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #16 of "Mark's RV Garage"

    Episode #17 Season 1 Finale of "Mark's RV Garage"


    In addition to being available on YouTube, Mark's RV Garage is available for viewing with full episode details at RV Videos On Demand



    General and Unsubscribe Info

    About us:

    Our goal with RV University This Week 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 35-foot Class A motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 14 and Josh 21, both avid RVers and three dogs, Roxie, Gracie and Buck. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit http://www.rveducation101.com

    RV University This Week © Copyright 1999- 2011 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.

    To subscribe, please go to: http://rveducation101.com/email/

    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!!

    Happy RV Learning,

    Mark & Dawn

    http://www.rveducation101.com

    RV Education 101
    150 Bay Ridge Rd
    Harrells, NC 28444-8896
    910-484-7615

    mark@rveducation101.com

    dawn@rveducation101.com

    Copyright by RV Education 101



    RV University, a site providing Recreation Vehicle safety, RV maintenance information, RV tips, RV advice and RV instruction for using and maintaining an RV by Mark Polk.
    Our best selling "how to" RV walk through orientation videos and e-book titles.
    .