RV Products: May 2005

Portable Power Source

XPower Powerpack 400R portable power sourceThe XPower Powerpack 400R from Xantrex Technology Inc. is a seven-in-one power unit that is said to be ideal for those who need portable or backup power.

The unit, which is approximately the same size as a small boom box, provides 115-volt-AC or 12-volt-DC power that can be used to operate or recharge numerous electrical devices. It features a 400-watt inverter and a sealed 20-amp-hour AGM battery.

The Powerpack 400R also includes a 250-psi air compressor for inflating tires or small sports equipment; attached jumper cables and enough cranking amps to jump-start nearly any vehicle; an AM-FM radio; a digital alarm clock; and a flashlight that comes with an amber cover so it also can be used as an emergency flasher.

The Powerpack 400R, which charges via an AC outlet, weighs 23 pounds and has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $179.99.

For more information, contact:
Xantrex Technology Inc.
8999 Nelson Way
Burnaby, BC
Canada V5A 4B5
(604) 422-8595
www.xantrex.com

Smart Sensor 4.0 water pumpThe Smart Sensor 4.0, part of the Extreme Series of water pumps from SHURflo, is designed specifically for use in type C and small type A motorhomes.

This microcontroller-based, variable-speed pump is said to deliver 4 gallons per minute with pressure up to 50 psi. According to product literature, the Smart Senor 4.0 precisely monitors an RV’s water pressure and adjusts the motor’s speed, thus eliminating the need for a pressure switch. The pump has a four-chamber design with large inlet and outlet passages to maximize water flow and efficiency. It features a seamless heat electro-coated motor shell, dual O-ring-sealed quick-connect ports, automatic voltage protection, and current limiting at 9 amps maximum.

The Smart Sensor 4.0 has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $184.

For more information, contact:
SHURflo
5900 Katella Ave.
Cypress, CA 90630
(800) 854-3218
(562) 795-5200
www.shurflo.com

Kelsyus Portable Backpack HammockFor those who enjoy an outdoor siesta now and then, Swimways Corporation has just the product to help on-the-go travelers relax. The Kelsyus Portable Backpack Hammock is a lightweight hammock that provides a comfortable place for a person to enjoy a nap, read a book, or sunbathe at the beach or pool.

The hammock features a steel frame and nylon hammock bed. It comes in its own carrying bag and reportedly can be set up in less than 30 seconds. According to product literature, users simply take the hammock from the bag, fold out the frame, and insert a pair of pins in the base to lock the frame in place.

The Portable Backpack Hammock, which comes in royal blue, weighs less than 22 pounds and has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $79. A deluxe version of the hammock with a drink holder, book holder, and inflatable pillow is available for $99.

For more information, contact:
Swimways Corporation
5816 Ward Court
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
(757) 460-1156
www.swimways.com/kelsyus

Mini-Shockles elastic cordsMini-Shockles from Simply Brilliant LLC can be used in myriad applications when RVing. These elastic cords are encased in strong tubular nylon webbing with anodized marine-grade carabiner fasteners on each end.

According to product literature, Mini-Shockles have been load-tested to 600 pounds and will stretch to twice their static length. The cord’s nylon cover will stand up to abrasion, resist damage from ultraviolet light, and will not cut or wear through easily. The carabiner fasteners “” which reportedly will not rust, corrode, or bend “” clip securely to gear, rings, and rails, or can be attached to the opposite carabiner to secure larger objects.

Mini-Shockles are available in four lengths and four color choices: blue, red, silver, and black. The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices are $8.45 for the 6-inch cord; $8.95 for the 12-inch cord; $9.45 for the 18-inch cord; and $9.95 for the 24-inch cord. A four-pack containing one cord of each size is available for $33.95.

For more information, contact:
Simply Brilliant LLC
P.O. Box 856
Hood River, OR 97031
(888) 557-6464
www.shockles.com

Oil Eater Cleaner/Degreaser from Kafko InternationalOil Eater Cleaner/Degreaser from Kafko International Ltd. is a nonflammable, water-based, acid-free cleaner that contains no abrasive or petroleum solvents.

According to product literature, the cleaner quickly and safely dissolves grease and oil on engines, tools, concrete, asphalt, and walls; will remove stains from floor mats and upholstery; and is safe enough to use as a spot remover on color-fast clothes. The biodegradable cleaner is said to penetrate quickly, to rinse off easily, and to not leave a residue.

A 32-ounce bottle of Oil Eater Cleaner/Degreaser has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $3.49. The product also is available in 1-gallon and 5-gallon containers.

For more information, contact:
Kafko International Ltd.
3555 W. Howard St.
Skokie, IL 60076
(800) 528-0334
(847) 763-0333
www.oileater.com

Mini-Techlite from Q Lighting Inc.The Mini-Techlite from Q Lighting Inc. is a small light mounted on an adjustable headband that is said to be ideal for woodworkers, electronics technicians, hobbyists, and anyone else who needs hands-free lighting.

The light, which reportedly operates for up to 20 hours on three AAA batteries, is provided by a 1-watt LED, meaning there is no bulb to burn out. It is attached to a leather headband with an adjustable closure for a snug and comfortable fit. The entire assembly weighs approximately 5 ounces, batteries included.

The Mini-Techlite has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $39.95. Another version with an independent 1.75X magnifier retails for $49.95. Five other magnifiers are available for $9.95 each.

For more information, contact:
Q Lighting Inc.
750 Enterprise Drive
Lexington, KY 40510
(877) 741-4612
(859) 231-0338
www.bil-lite.com

Foam-lined fan cover from Kool-O-MaticKool-O-Matic Corporation, a manufacturer of RV vent fans, has introduced a new foam-lined fan cover that comes standard with the company’s new fans and fits all existing Kool-O-Matic units.

The durable plastic accessory panel fits over the interior face of the fan grill and is said to snap in easily for a snug fit. When the fan is not in use, the cover provides a smooth appearance and helps to prevent hot or cold drafts from entering the RV. According to product literature, the foam liner, which is located in the underside of the cover, helps to reduce noise from outside the coach and to absorb condensation.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the foam-lined fan cover is $28.76.

For more information, contact:
Kool-O-Matic Corporation
1831 Terminal Road
Niles, MI 49120
(888) 872-6327
(269) 683-2600
www.kool-o-matic.com

Wiser Visor RV Visor from Skunes ManufacturingThe Wiser Visor RV Visor from Skunes Manufacturing is an adjustable see-through visor extension that is said to reduce dangerous glare; reduce eyestrain; and improve visibility for drivers in sunny, snowy, or other high-glare conditions.

The RV Visor, which mounts to the original visor that came with the motorhome, is said to block 99 percent of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays and to allow drivers to look through a distortion-free tinted shield for safer driving. The hinged visor, which measures 6 inches long by 20 inches wide, moves from side to side for wider glare protection across the windshield. And, according to product literature, the RV Visor’s innovative ratchet system keeps the shield from rattling out of place once it is set.

The RV Visor has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $24.95 plus $4 for shipping and handling.

For more information, contact:
Skunes Manufacturing
P.O. Box 151
Arthur, ND 58006-0151
(888) 353-8567
www.wiservisor.com

Finga-Savas pot holders from Root CreationsFinga-Savas from Root Creations are small hot pads that attach directly to pot handles and lids and can remain on the entire time you’re cooking. Designed with hook-and-loop fastening material along the edges, the holders can be folded lengthwise or widthwise to accommodate nearly any size handle.

On one side of each Finga-Sava is an attractive patterned material. On the other side is a heat-resistant thermal material to provide burn protection to the user. Each holder is coated with Flame Stop 1 flame retardant for additional kitchen safety.

Finga-Savas come three to a packet in five standard designs and six quilted designs. Each package has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $12.95.

For more information, contact:
Root Creations
9165 Jotipa Drive
Longmont, CO 80503
(303) 506-9595
www.rootcreations.com

EXODOR BIO-PAK holding tank treatment from Walex ProductsThe EXODOR BIO-PAK from Walex Products Company is a natural enzyme holding tank deodorizer and waste digester that comes in prepackaged portions.

According to product literature, BIO-PAK’s advanced enzyme formula deodorizes and breaks down waste in an environment-friendly manner. The formaldehyde-free deodorizer comes in water-soluble packets that reportedly dissolve quickly once they are dropped into the tank. BIO-PAK also is said to help keep tank level sensors clean and to lubricate tank valves.

Each resealable BIO-PAK bag contains 10 packets and has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $11.95

For more information, contact:
Walex Products Company Inc.
1949 Popular St.
Leland, NC 28451
(800) 338-3155
(910) 371-2242
www.rvsanitation.com