RV Products: April 2003

Suspension Enhancement

The Motion Control Unit from Super Steer is designed to reduce the roll, sway, and bounce that can be encountered when driving over bumps, dips, and uneven road conditions in an air-bag-equipped motorhome. The Motion Control Unit, which is installed at each air suspension bag, is engineered to control the high-velocity thrust of air released from the air bag. The Motion Control Unit operates independently where air bags exist and promises to produce a smoother, more stable ride. According to product literature, the Motion Control Unit is easy to install and is designed to last the life of the motorhome.

For more information, contact:
Super Steer
417 S.W. Marion Lane
Grants Pass, OR 97527
(888) 898-3281
(541) 479-2882
www.hendersonslineup.com

Product literature for the OutSyder portable water filter touts it as “the only total RV coach water filtering system with hose storage on the market.” The system was invented by an active RV owner who wanted filtered water throughout his motorhome, not just in the kitchen. The Outsyder provides filtered water to the kitchen, the bathroom, and faucets in any other areas when the coach is connected to the campsite water source. The filtering system includes a filter case with a replaceable filter; a 6-foot hose and a 25-foot hose, each with brass fittings; and a high-impact working/storage box. The filter uses patented KDF media together with granular activated charcoal to provide protection from contaminants. The OutSyder is available for $187.50 plus shipping, handling, and applicable taxes.

For more information, contact:
AreVee Products Inc.
P.O. Box 1695
Mount Dora, FL 32756
(352) 636-6355
www.outsyder.com

The EZE RV Gutter promises to help eliminate black streaks on the sides of RVs. According to product literature, dirty streaks are caused by moisture and overnight dew or drizzle that mixes with dirt on the RV roof and then creeps down the side of the motorhome, where the sun bakes it onto the surface. The EZE RV Gutter channels this dirty runoff so that it can be wiped away easily.

The EZE RV Gutter attaches to the coach with 3M-brand acrylic foam tape, so no drilling is required. It is available in ultra-white, off-white, and gray colors, and now in black for use on the increasingly popular dark-colored coaches. The black gutter also can be used on light-colored coaches where it matches the window trim. A 50-foot roll of EZE RV Gutter is $85, while a 100-foot roll is $165. Prices do not include shipping. The EZE RV Gutter also is available by the foot in custom-cut sections.

For more information, contact:
Simon and Barbara De Beer
Essential Products/EZE RV Gutter
1115 Madison St. N.E. #820
Salem, OR 97303-6499
(800) 560-7147
www.rvgutters.com

The Chill Frill is a head-hugging pillowcase for any adult who wants a warm head while sleeping. Coziness that previously could be realized only from the neck down now can be achieved for the entire body with this product, which promises a comfy feeling around the head and face on chilly nights. The Chill Frill is a full-size, 100 percent cotton flannel pillowcase with a “Frill” “” a generous ruffle flap that can be pulled down over the head. The Frill also can be used to cover just the top of the head, just over the ears, or tucked around the neck. The Chill Frill pillowcase is available for $25 plus shipping and handling.

For more information, contact:
Mirific Inc., dba Chill Frill
2764 Lake Sahara Drive, Suite 115
Las Vegas, NV 89117
(702) 851-3049
www.headwarmer.com

With the introduction of two new Plug-Guard models by R&H Specialties, nearly all trailer wiring harnesses now can be protected when not in use. As does the original 7-way unit, the new units for 4/5-way and 6-way wiring harnesses offer protection from moisture, dirt, and other damage. Instead of dangling from a trailer hitch or lying exposed on the ground, the plug end of the wiring harness is simply slipped into the Plug-Guard where it is secured in place until needed. Plug-Guard installation is said to be simple and, because no electrical connection is needed, involves just two screws. The hinged cover allows easy insertion of the plug and holds it in place securely. The black Plug-Guards are available for $10.95 each (shown in red above for illustrative purposes only).

For more information, contact:
R&H Specialties Inc.
631 Jay Dee St.
Elkhart, IN 46514
(574) 296-2888
Fax: (574) 296-6989
www.plug-guard.com

The Hitch ‘N Sto hitch-mounted cargo carrier is available in three different sizes with a variety of frame options and attaches to any class II, III, or IV 2-inch receiver tube. The fiberglass storage box of the Hitch ‘N Sto is paintable and offers 13.65 to 26 cubic feet of storage.

The Swivel Frame option allows unobstructed access to the rear of the vehicle and the storage box. Constructed of heavy-gauge steel, the Swivel Frame can be swung to the side even when loaded. The Towing Frame option allows users to tow small trailers such as those used for personal watercraft, snowmobiles, or motorcycles. The Hitch ‘N Sto box can then provide extra cargo space for accessories associated with these activities, such as boots and clothing, that often are too wet or too dirty to be transported inside the vehicle.

For more information, contact:
Carvel Fiberglass Inc.
4971 N. State Highway 5
Camdenton, MO 65020
(800) 324-4895

PML Differential Covers with increased oil capacity are now available for Dana 80 differentials and any GM/Chevrolet engine using an Allison drivetrain. These aluminum covers feature raised fins, which provide a custom look and increased capacity to help lower oil temperature. The .160-inch-thick walls increase torsional strength to the differential housing, while the .350-inch-thick machined gasket flange provides a uniform clamping force on the gasket to ensure a secure seal. A magnetic drain plug allows easy oil changes to be made, and a check/fill hole simplifies maintenance. The Dana 80 PML Differential Cover features an oil capacity of 0.7 quart more than stock units, while the GM/Chevrolet Allison covers hold 1.0 quart more than stock covers.

For more information, contact:
PML Inc.
201 W. Beach Ave.
Inglewood, CA 90302
(800) 335-4345
www.yourcovers.com

Python Straps from Suburban Manufacturing Inc. use industrial hook-and-loop fasteners and are available in 16 standard sizes and configurations. These straps are designed for ultra-secure fastening and are available in two styles: cinch straps, and hanging straps equipped with grommets for easy mounting. Both styles are available in standard and heavy-duty series. The heavy-duty straps are reinforced with nylon webbing and are said to be suitable for extreme outdoor, agricultural, and construction conditions. Custom straps are also available.

For more information, contact:
Suburban Manufacturing Inc.
301 Chelsea Road
Monticello, MN 55362
(800) 782-5752
www.gosuburban.com

The BatteryMinder from E-COMMS promises to eliminate the annoyance and expense of jump-starting dead batteries. The BatteryMinder monitors battery voltage and disconnects all accessories with its internal circuit breaker when a factory-set threshold for an under-voltage condition is detected. This preserves enough battery power to enable the engine to be started. Company literature states that the BatteryMinder is easy to install and use, and instructions for resetting the circuit breaker are located on the front of the unit itself. The BatteryMinder is designed with a gasketed, water-resistant, cast-aluminum case and is covered by a full two-year warranty.

For more information, contact:
E-COMMS Inc.
5720 144th St. N.W.
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
(800) 247-1431

The Cub is a lightweight, portable power source that can provide electricity for small electronic devices and then recharge itself through a 5-watt thin film solar module. The Cub weighs 13 pounds and is housed in a heavy-duty, weather-resistant pack that is equipped with carrying handles and backpack straps. An electronic controller protects the 7.5 amp-hour battery from overcharging and excessive discharging.

The Cub is available in a DC-only model and an AC/DC model; each comes with DC power socket adapters and an energy-efficient task flashlight. Options include a waterproof 8-watt fluorescent light; a wall charger; and a 12-volt-DC charger to use with a vehicle cigarette lighter outlet. Prices for The Cub start at $299.

For more information, contact:
Solar Dynamics Inc.
17A Herman Drive
Simsbury, CT 06070
(877) 527-6461
www.solar-dynamics.com