RV Products: September 2004

Travel-Sized Foot Care Products

Sole Mates Foot care products from McNaughton Inc.McNaughton Inc. has added three new Sole Mates products to its foot care line. According to product literature, the Sole Mates Pumice, Sole Mates Bumpy, and Sole Mates Soap Dispenser are designed to “treat your feet to a day at the spa every day of the week “” even while you’re on the road!”

Sole Mates Pumice exfoliates dry skin while the Bumpy and the Soap Dispenser can be used for a reflexology treatment and to hold liquid soap, respectively. The Sole Mates base, which is included with each product and is available in five different colors, is attached via suction to the floor of the tub or shower to hold the various products securely in place.

Sole Mates Pumice, Bumpy, and Soap Dispenser are each sold separately with manufacturer’s suggested retail prices from $7.99 to $9.99.

For more information, contact:
McNaughton Inc.
236 Girard Ave. N.
Minneapolis, MN 55405
(800) GADJITS (423-5487)
Fax: (612) 381-0021
www.gadjits.com

Qwik-Fill On-board Battery Watering System from Flow-RiteMaintaining proper fluid levels in wet-cell batteries is an important “” but often neglected “” job. Because checking the water level in batteries can be difficult to do, it becomes even more likely to be overlooked. However, the Qwik-Fill On-board Battery Watering System from Flow-Rite Controls promises to make the job fast and simple.

The system includes special battery caps that replace the existing caps and are designed to allow the cells to be filled without touching them, even if they can’t be seen. The replacement caps are joined with tubing that allows water to flow into all the cells at once. To further simplify the job, multiple batteries can be joined and filled all at once. Using a squeeze bulb, water is forced into each cell, and within seconds the batteries are filled.

Installation of the Qwik-Fill is said to take only five minutes, and the only tool required is a pocketknife or a pair of scissors. According to product literature, “You can’t over- or under-fill” the batteries when using the Qwik-Fill. And when it’s time to replace the batteries, the system can be transferred to the new batteries.

The dual battery kit for 12-volt batteries has a suggested retail price of $59.99. Flow-Rite Controls also offers other battery filling systems for a variety of battery voltages and applications including marine use, golf carts, and other vehicles.

For more information, contact:
Flow-Rite Controls
960 74th St.
Byron Center, MI 49315
(616) 583-1700
www.flow-rite.com

Shakespeare’s new CA-Series of cell-phone amplifiers with Cyfre technologyShakespeare’s new CA-Series of cell-phone amplifiers are designed to boost cellular signals so as to increase coverage and improve connections. Using Cyfre microprocessor-controlled technology and patented technology licensed from Motorola, the amplifiers adjust signal power to keep cell phones connected at extended ranges or in geographic dead zones.

According to product literature, the Cyfre technology digitally regulates the output of the amplifier for maximum performance, whether close to or far from a cell tower. This improves call quality and provides better Internet, video, fax, and text messaging connections. CA-Series amplifiers work with a wide variety of handsets and external antennas at temperatures ranging from -4 degrees to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. The CA-Nex amplifier is designed to be used with Nextel phones and service; the CA-189 model operates with all other phones and providers.

The amplifiers have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $459.95 and carry a one-year limited warranty.

For more information, contact:
Shakespeare Electronic Products Group
200 Business Park Blvd.
Columbia, SC 29203
(803) 227-1590
www.shakespeare-marine.com

Doran PressurePro tire pressure monitoring systemAccording to company literature, the Doran PressurePro tire pressure monitoring system can continuously monitor up to 16 tires at a time, making it ideal for motorhomers who pull a trailer or towed vehicle.

Installation of the PressurePro system is accomplished by replacing the existing valve caps with new caps that include embedded air-pressure sensors; mounting the monitor on the dash; and plugging the power cord into a standard 12-volt-DC receptacle. Should a low-pressure situation occur in one or more of the tires, the monitor signals the driver with audible and visual alerts. According to product literature, the PressurePro sensors send out duplicate signals to minimize the effects of electronic interference, weather, and other vehicles.

For more information, contact:
Doran Manufacturing LLC
2851 Massachusetts Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45225
(866) 816-SAFE (7233)
www.doranmfg.com

Dometic’s 2004 New Dimensions Side Wise absorption-type refrigeratorThe new auto-defrost feature on Dometic’s 2004 New Dimensions Side Wise absorption-type refrigerators brings the convenience of residential refrigerators to the motorhome. The defrost operation is automatic, so there is no need to chip ice away, remove food from the refrigerator, or risk having food thaw that you wish to remain frozen.

The system also includes a new control package with a digital display readout that simultaneously shows the current temperature in both the fresh food and freezer compartments. It also provides five temperature settings; two-way auto or gas operation; expanded status and error messages; and error codes that identify trouble spots beyond the check light. A self-diagnostic mode helps the refrigerator run at peak efficiency, while a forced-air fan in each compartment helps to ensure even cooling from the top to the bottom.

For more information, contact:
Dometic Corporation
P.O. Box 490
Elkhart, IN 46515
(574) 294-2511
www.dometicusa.com

3-Point Driver’s Seat line from Villa InternationalVilla International has introduced a line of driver’s seats developed to enhance driver comfort. The three models in the 3-Point Driver’s Seat line “” Rockwell, Carnegie, and Montague “” feature softer contoured cushioning, a wider seating area, and Villa’s self-contained three-point harnessing system.

According to product information, one of the most common complaints people have with existing seats is unwanted pressure on the knees. Villa officials indicate they have found a way to eliminate that problem by reconfiguring the dimensions of the chair itself. Not only do these re-engineered seats provide more room for the occupant, but they also are said to take up less space in the cockpit.

Rockwell, Carnegie, and Montague seats are available on many new motorhomes and also can be purchased by the consumer for upgrading of existing coaches.

For more information, contact:
Villa International
502 E. Julianna St.
Anaheim, CA 92801
(888) 707-7272
www.villainternational.com

OPTIMA Group 31 BlueTop batteries featuring SPIRALCELLOPTIMA Group 31 BlueTop batteries provide dual-purpose power to motorhomes. Featuring patented SPIRALCELL technology, these maintenance-free batteries are said to have a low rate of self-discharge. This feature can be especially beneficial for motorhomes that are used seasonally. According to product literature, these batteries can go unused for up to a year and still maintain a strong starting voltage.

The leakproof, spillproof case allows the battery to be mounted in almost any position. Vibration resistance is said to be up to 15 times greater than traditional lead-acid batteries. Other features include faster recharging capabilities, greater cycle life, and OPTIMA’s “six-pack” battery design.

For more information, contact:
OPTIMA Batteries
5757 N. Green Bay Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53209
(888) 8-OPTIMA (867-8462)
www.optimabatteries.com

Accu-Dish satellite dishThe Accu-Dish satellite dish stand is designed to ensure that the mount tube for a satellite dish is vertical, allowing the dish to be aimed accurately no matter the type of terrain on which the stand is placed. The patented leveling device is equipped with a built-in bubble glass for easy, accurate adjustment.

The stand features a hollow base that can be filled with water for extra stability if desired; a screw-in mount tube; a compass and degree arc in the base; and rubber feet with stainless-steel tethers for staking the base to the ground.

Besides the Accu-Dish Stand, two Accu-Dish Adapter models are available for use with the two most commonly used satellite dish tripods.

For more information, contact:
Rack Factory Inc.
729 W. Anaheim St., Unit B
Long Beach, CA 90813-2896
(888) 717-6270
www.accu-dish.com

Davis Air-Dryr portable dehumidifierThe new Davis Air-Dryr is designed to stop moisture problems in enclosed spaces such as motorhomes, boats, stationary homes, offices, and storage units safely and inexpensively. Designed for continuous operation, the unit has no fans, switches, or thermostats and uses 110/120-volt-AC power. Damp air is drawn into the base through natural convection. It is heated to above the dew-point temperature, and warm, dry air is released through the top vents. If airflow should be impeded, the Air-Dryr shuts off.

Two models of the Air-Dryr are available. The Air-Dryr 500 can handle 500 cubic feet of living space and needs just 0.6 amps of power, while the circular Air-Dryr 1000 draws 1.1 amps of current and can handle up to 1,000 cubic feet of living space. Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices are $52.95 and $62.95, respectively. Operating costs are said to be similar to that of a lightbulb.

For more information, contact:
Davis Instruments
3465 Diablo Ave.
Hayward, CA 94545
(510) 732-9229
Fax: (510) 732-9188
www.davisnet.com

Nelco wiring accessory kitsNelco wiring accessory kits are designed to save time and reduce clutter. These kits feature plastic trays with separate compartments and hinged covers to keep cable ties, wire nuts, and other items organized and easily accessible. The kits, which can fit into a toolbox, hang on a wall, or sit in a storage bay or on a workbench, are available in a variety of standard and custom sizes. Prices vary according to contents, size, quantity, and any special requirements.

For more information, contact:
Nelco Products Inc.
22 Riverside Drive
Pembroke, MA 02359
(800) 346-3526
Fax: (781) 826-7344
www.nelcoproducts.com