RV Products: September 2002

Portable Grill

Product literature compares the Coleman RoadTrip Grill to the Swiss Army knife — versatility folded into portability. The RoadTrip Grill features two adjustable gas burners, each rated at 10,000 Btus. Push-button ignition means no matches are needed, and the RoadTrip Grill operates with either a 16.4-ounce propane cylinder or a standard 20-pound bulk tank. The larger tank requires a hose and adapter that are not included with the grill. The cooking unit fits into a foldable 36-inch-tall cooking stand with side tables and utensil hooks. The aluminum leg stand has a glass-filled nylon frame and shelves. The grill also can be removed for use on other surfaces.

The Coleman RoadTrip Grill comes standard with one grill and one griddle cooking surface. Each D-shaped cooking surface covers half of the 285 square inches of cooking area on the unit. Additional grill or griddle inserts are available for $16.99 each. The cooking surfaces and removable grease pan are dishwasher-safe.

The Coleman RoadTrip Grill with portable stand has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $169.99. Additional accessories, including a wheeled carrying case and a stove grate for use with pots, pans, and skillets, are available.

For more information, contact:
The Coleman Company Inc.
P.O. Box 2931
Wichita, KS 67201
(800) 835-3278
www.coleman.com

The UCRV1-3.5 ultra-compact auxiliary generator is said to be the smallest and lightest diesel unit on the market in its size category.  Measuring just 16 inches high, 30 inches long, and 18 inches deep, this 3,500-watt Kubota-powered unit will fit into many storage compartments where low-profile gasoline-powered units normally would be installed.

The UCRV1-3.5 is mounted in a clamshell pan and, thanks to extra-resilient isolation mounts and an operating speed of 2,800 rpm, promises to be virtually vibration-free and quiet. Features include a separate radiator, an electric fan, and average fuel consumption of one-tenth to two-tenths of a gallon per hour. The UCRV1-3.5 generator is priced at $3,695.

For more information, contact:
Next Generation Power Engineering Inc.
1732 St. Johns Bluff Road
Jacksonville, FL 32246
(888) 463-9879
(904) 642-8555
Fax: (904) 642-8175
www.nextgenerationpower.com

The Wrap from Blockit & Lockit Systems promises to deter both auto theft and airbag theft by offering three layers of protection: mechanical, audio, and visual.

Mechanical protection is provided by a seven-pin keyed locking system that secures the device’s unbreakable resin body, reinforced with a stainless-steel frame, to the steering wheel of a vehicle. The device fits steering wheels measuring 14 inches to 15.25 inches in diameter. The Wrap is said to hold up to beating, sawing, grinding, and raw strength should someone try to remove it from the steering wheel. In addition, an anti-rotation arm will stop a thief from driving the vehicle when the device is attached. A motion-activated 110-decibel siren offers audio protection while LED warning lights and a flashing strobe light offer visual protection. A 12-volt adapter is also included with the device.

The Wrap Deluxe Model, with the LED warning lights, motion-activated siren, and flashing strobe light, has a retail price of $129.95 plus shipping. The Basic Model, which includes LED warning lights only, retails for $99.95 plus shipping. A designer carrying bag also is available.

For more information, contact:
Blockit & Lockit Systems
1211 Mullowney Lane
Billings, MT 59101
(888) 656-6156
www.wrap1.com

Corrosion Technologies Corporation has introduced RejeX, a polymer system that is said to guard vehicle paint from corrosive exhaust gases, oil, bug stains, and more. According to product literature, RejeX forms a “slick, long-lasting, glass-like barrier” that allows exhaust stains from diesel and gasoline engines to be removed using mild detergents and water, and allows bugs to be removed using plain water. It contains no abrasives and can be used on painted surfaces, chrome, acrylic plastic, fiberglass, windshields, and more.

RejeX should be applied using a clean, soft cloth and allowed to dry to a complete haze. The excess is wiped off. The product reportedly leaves no swirl marks. The surface to be protected should be clean, dry, and cool to the touch. It is emphasized that RejeX should not be applied to a hot surface or in direct sunlight. A 16-ounce bottle of RejeX carries a suggested retail price of $19.95; a gallon container costs $144.95.

For more information, contact:
Corrosion Technologies Corporation
P.O. Box 551625
Dallas, TX 75355-1625
(800) 638-7361
www.corrosionx.com

R&H Specialties Inc. has announced that, with the introduction of two new models of the Plug-Guard, nearly all trailer wiring harnesses in use can be protected from moisture, dirt, and other damage that can result when such plugs are left exposed and dangling from a trailer hitch.

Just as the original Plug-Guard offered protection to seven-way connectors, the new units will protect four/five-way and six-way wiring harnesses. Installation of the Plug-Guard to the trailer requires just two screws and no electrical connection. Once the Plug-Guard has been installed on the trailer frame, a hinged cover opens to allow insertion of the wiring harness “plug” end where it is secured until needed for connection to a tow vehicle. Not only is the plug protected from snow, rain, and other airborne particles that could damage it, but because it is mounted on the frame and off the ground, it is protected if the trailer is accidentally moved.

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

Master Concepts Inc. has introduced the redesigned BrakeBuddy supplemental braking system. The BrakeBuddy is a completely self-contained electric pneumatic braking system that is powered by the towed vehicle battery. When the brakes on the towing motorhome are applied, an electronic pendulum inside the BrakeBuddy engages a micro-switch, activating the built-in air compressor to push directly on the brake pedal of the towed vehicle.

According to product literature, driving the towed vehicle every other day will keep the battery charged. Depending on driving terrain and traffic situations, it is possible to tow the vehicle for up to four days without recharging its battery. A built-in surge suppressor is designed to eliminate unwanted braking while driving over bumpy roads, bridges, and railroad tracks, or while going down steep hills.

Exterior changes to the redesigned BrakeBuddy include a new nylon plastic housing that is four pounds lighter than the original product and gauges that are easier to read. Initial setup time is listed as approximately 10 minutes. After that, tool-free installation and removal require about one minute each. The BrakeBuddy is compatible with all motorhomes and carries a suggested retail price of approximately $895.

For more information, contact:
Master Concepts Inc.
4371 Platte Ave.
Sedalia, CO 80135-8074
(800) 470-2287
www.brakebuddy.com

Diamond Shield paint protection film is said to be “the clear alternative” to vinyl automotive bras and plastic shields. It is designed to help eliminate paint chips and damage caused by stones, bugs, road salt, sand, abrasions, and weathering. The film is said to be highly conformable, so relief cuts are not needed. The clear-gloss 8-mil urethane film contains ultraviolet-ray inhibitors, is non-yellowing, and is designed to allow the color brilliance of the motorhome to shine through. No special care is needed for the film, which can be removed if necessary.

Diamond Shield paint protection film comes with a five-year limited warranty against peeling, cracking, and shrinking, and a repair warranty of up to $1,000 should damage occur to your motorhome in the protected area. Pre-cut kits for any vehicle can be installed at certified Diamond Shield dealerships and at rallies where Diamond Shield representatives are present. Diamond Shield paint protection film also is being offered by some manufacturers on their new motorhomes.

For more information, contact:
Diamond Shield
850 St. Paul St.
Rochester, NY 14605
(888) 806-5862
(585) 454-1950
Fax: (585) 546-3968
www.diamond-shield.com

PML Inc. has introduced a new line of increased-capacity cast-aluminum transmission pans for several GM and Ford motorhome transmissions. These pans feature a deep sump for increased fluid capacity and raised fins to help lower fluid temperatures. A drain plug allows easy fluid changes, since the pan does not need to be removed as is normally required with stock transmission pans. If desired, extra bosses can be drilled and tapped for the installation of temperature sensors.

GM applications include 4L80E, 4L60E, 700R4, 4L60, 4L60 Deep, and Allison (1000, 2000, 2400) for GM’s HD 2500/3500. Ford applications include the E4OD (1989-98), 4R100 (1998-2001), and AOD. Retail prices range from $125 to $195.  PML also has introduced a new line of transmission pans for many Dodge and Ford trucks and sport utility vehicles.

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

The Hott Wash portable water heater can provide hot water anywhere there is an electrical source and running water. Simply connect a hose from a water supply and a hot water hose to the Hott Wash, turn on the water, and plug the Hott Wash in to a regular 110-volt electric outlet. Two portable models are available. The 2.5-gallon model weighs 15 pounds (empty) while the 4-gallon unit weighs 17 pounds (empty). A 6-gallon unit is available for permanent installation. All models are equipped with an adjustable thermostatic control. According to product literature, the units’ high efficiency is the result of superior insulation.

For more information, contact:
America’s Acres Inc.
P.O. Box 2153
New Preston, CT 06777
(888) 250-5151
Fax: (860) 868-1504
www.americasacres.com

The Lapp Topper features a beanbag-type bottom that conforms to one’s lap to provide a comfortable surface for eating, writing, or reading. It can be used while traveling in a vehicle, having a snack on the sofa, or relaxing in bed.

Made of durable, soft leatherette vinyl, the Lapp Topper features a reversible cup holder for right- and left-handed users, a non-slip mat that holds dishes in place, and a removable tray for easy cleaning. Small items such as a portable phone, a remote control, or a deck of cards can be held in the 8-inch side pocket. The Lapp Topper is available in five colors and costs $34.95, plus $8.65 shipping and handling.

For more information, contact:
Tilberry Marketing
1749 Golf Road #310
Mount Prospect, IL 60056
(800) 413-0679
www.tilberry.com