December 2009

A Flawed Finish

Dear RV Doctor:
We purchased a 1992 Coachmen Type A motorhome about four years ago. Since it is parked outside all the time, 90 percent of the clear-coat finish has peeled off (except for the bumpers), and the decals have faded and are severely cracked.

This story isn’t about the latest equipment and accessories found in model-year 2010 motorhomes. This is a peek into the future, thanks to technology insiders who answered my call for a look into the crystal ball. … here are some predictions as to how full-timing will be safer, greener, and more fun in future years.

Many people think of deserts as large areas of drifting sand, but actually only about two percent of North America’s deserts contain sand dunes. … Many dune areas are now state or national parks and monuments with easy access, but a few require travel on dirt roads. Always check locally before leaving the paved highways.

In 2008, when FMCA’s leaders worked on the budget for the 2009 calendar year, changes suggested to balance the budget included a proposal that members using the Mail Forwarding Service begin paying a portion of its associated costs.

We are looking ahead to a new year that introduces more motorhomers to FMCA than ever before. To help accomplish this goal, we are kicking off a recruitment campaign in earnest on January 1, 2010. It is called “A Dozen Does It.” For every 12 new FMCA members a chapter signs up, the chapter will receive a prize package.

How do you decorate your motorhome for the holidays?

Flashlight

The Gorillatorch from Joby Inc. is a hands-free flashlight that can be formed to attach to just about anything and provide illumination for any situation.

Emergency Information Card

In the event we were ever in an accident while sightseeing away from our motorhome, no one would know the name of the campground where it was parked. So I created an information card that we carry … 

Slideout Awnings

Some of the awnings over my slideouts are loose on the ends, but tight in the middle. When the wind starts to blow, the ends flap and create noise inside the motorhome.

Workhorse Chassis Brake Clarification

The “W22 Brake Caliper Overheating” letter in the November 2009 Tech Talk column included information about an Office of Defects (ODI) investigation relating to Bosch front disc brake caliper problems on certain Workhorse chassis.

In the world of RVing, I have heard many myths about certain tasks that are said to be gender-specific. Many women have commented that driving their motorhome would intimidate them. They fear that their husbands would criticize their driving and that operating a motorhome is not a feminine thing.