Correction
In the September/October 2024 issue, Mark Quasius, F333630, was incorrectly identified on the contents page as the author of the “Smart” RVs article. As noted on the story itself, the author is Chris Dougherty, F263059.
Family RVing regrets this error.
It Finally Happened
Well, after four decades of RVing and three different RVs, we’ve reached a significant milestone. We just completed an epic journey covering Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, South Dakota, Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, before returning home to Arizona, and we arrived with a perfect CODE 1!
For those unfamiliar, a Code 1 means that our RV finished the trip with zero discrepancies. We emptied it, gave it a thorough cleaning (both inside and out), and stored it away without needing any repairs or fixes.
To explain further, codes 1, 2, and 3 are U.S. Air Force ratings for aircraft status:
Code 1 indicates that the aircraft is ready for its next flight ˛ just add fuel and a pilot or aircrew.
Code 2 means there are minor issues, but the aircraft can still fly with just fuel and a pilot/aircrew.
Code 3 is the lowest rating, indicating that the aircraft is not safe or ready for flight and requires repairs. This could be due to engine problems, malfunctioning flight controls, or issues with radar or weapons systems.
In RV terms, a Code 3 might be a slideout that won’t move; a water leak; engine or drivetrain issues; a nonfunctioning A/C (in the South) or heater (in the North); a propane smell; or a generator that won’t start, especially if solar power isn’t sufficient.
A Code 2 for an RV could be minor issues like stairs that won’t extend (but a manual backup or alternative steps can be used), an awning that won’t deploy (but remains safely stowed), or a convection-microwave oven that’s out of commission (but other options include dining out or grilling).
This trip was our first extended journey where we returned Code 1. We’re excited to share this achievement and look forward to seeing you at future campgrounds. Here’s to many more adventures, presuming we can get there!
JD & Heather Harris, F27591D
Waddell, Arizona
Tool Tip
Everyone’s suggestions about tools in the September/October “Readers Write‚ column were well taken. My suggestion is, when storing your tools, try to keep them on the curb/passenger side of the RV. Sometimes breakdowns happen while traveling and on the road. So, if you need to retrieve a tool or tools, it’s safer to do so on that side versus having your “butt‚ hanging out in the roadway if you store tools on the driver’s side.
David Keller, F447004
Shohola, Pennsylvania
We want to hear from you! Family RVing welcomes comments about articles published in the magazine or topics of interest to RV owners. Email readerswrite@fmca.com; mail to Readers Write, FMCA, 8291 Clough Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45244. Please include your name, city, and state/province. Letters may be edited for space and clarity.