February 2016
Tire Pressure Gauges
I’ve read several articles over the years about the importance of tire maintenance. I’ve had my coach weighed. I carefully check the tire pressures at least once a week, more often if traveling, and I use a tire pressure monitoring system. My question: How do I verify the accuracy of the tire-pressure gauge?
I chose a compass-temperature system manufactured by American Technology Components Inc., based in Elkhart, Indiana. I’ve installed these products in my motorhomes in the past, and I wanted something larger and easier to see than the small display that was in our current coach’s dash entertainment system.
The Dynamax Isata 5 Series motorhome debuted at the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association’s California RV Show in October 2015. A static display of the 36DS, a 36-foot double-slideout prototype, was more than just well received by attendees.
The Battle of Picacho Pass is best described as a skirmish when compared to other, large-scale engagements of the Civil War. But it does hold the distinction of being the westernmost fight in the war, and the losses were no less devastating to the soldiers' families than they were for families of men killed in larger battles east of the Mississippi.
Wildlife photography was once the sole domain of serious professionals, typically young men in their 20s and 30s who were rugged enough to trek heavy equipment deep into the wilderness. Modern digital photography and auto-focus lenses have changed that picture dramatically.
Ninety minutes or so from Perry, Georgia, where FMCA members will soon meet for the association’s 93rd Family Reunion and Motorhome Showcase, March 17-20, is a part of Georgia that no history buff or nature lover should miss. It’s filled with American heritage, the great outdoors, and nature’s wildest creatures.
Motorhomers are an inquisitive bunch. Just step in one of the seminar rooms at any FMCA Family Reunion and observe learning sessions in progress. You might not want to leave. FMCA’s knowledgeable seminar presenters expound on subjects that can enlighten and entertain their motorhoming audiences for hours.
Be in the know before you go with this list of companies that will display RVer-friendly products and services next month at FMCA’s Family Reunion and Motorhome Showcase in the heart of Georgia.
Well, here it is mid-December, and my column for the February issue of the magazine is due. A lot has happened since my last column. However, for those of you who really seem to enjoy hearing about my adventures (and misadventures), I'm afraid this issue may disappoint you. I have actually behaved myself this month and stayed out of trouble!
February is designated Responsible Pet Owner’s Month. Since a significant number of motorhome owners travel with pets, I thought I would revisit some helpful tips for having a healthy and happy pet that have been shared over the years in Family Motor Coaching magazine.
Allergies On The Road
Dear Editor:
I was a respiratory therapist for 40-plus years, and my wife has allergies. I commend the many recommendations in the “Full-Timer’s Primer” article titled “Managing Allergies” in the October 2015 issue (page 84).
The following companies have recalls delineated in this month's Recall Corner: Forest River, Newmar Corporation, REV Recreation Group (formerly Allied Recreation Group), Thor Motor Coach, Winnebago Industries.
Perplexing Furnace Problem
Dear RV Doctor:
I was intrigued to read the letter from Mike Tobias in the August 2015 “House Calls” column (page 20) about lack of heat in his 2014 Tiffin Phaeton equipped with two furnaces. We have the same problem in our 2015 Itasca. Our two furnaces fail to work when the temperature is in the mid-30s or below.
Draft Catcher
We purchased black foam water-pipe insulation tubes from a hardware store, cut them to the length of the valances of the day/night shades in our motorhome’s living area, and placed the tubes on the window ledges. This makes a big difference in how much cold or hot air comes in.
Swinging Golfers International, an FMCA chapter, was formed in 1985 by members devoted to playing golf at outstanding courses, traveling the country in their motorhomes, and socializing with people who share similar interests. The chapter’s 30th anniversary rally in September 2015 was held at the RV Resort at Carolina Crossroads in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina.
In 1995, Bob and Cheryl Preul purchased a Rexhall motorhome and looked for a related club. They found none, so they contacted FMCA. The Rexhall International RV Club took off from there. To celebrate the chapter’s 20th anniversary, members gathered September 23-27, 2015, for a rally at Comstock Country RV Resort in Carson City, Nevada.
The Coaches for Christ – South Central chapter had a banner year in 2015. Our 10th anniversary rally was October 10-14, 2015, in Conroe, Texas.
Unisex Hooded Jacket
When threatening clouds roll in or there’s a chill in the campground air, you could take refuge inside your motorhome. Instead, brave the elements while showing off your stylish Driftwood Hooded Jacket from the FMCA Store.
Towing Solution For Jeep Cherokee
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC (FCA) has announced plans for resolving a problem that sometimes occurs when 2014-16 Jeep Cherokees are towed four wheels down behind a motorhome.
As I write this from my Michigan home, we're in the throes of winter. Our RV travel time is a few weeks away yet, but that’s okay. To enjoy it, I need only glance at my office wall. Today, I’m looking at a photograph of a half-dozen horses. Just seeing that photo takes me back.
My friends Carole and Jon settled down after four years of full-timing while working at fabulous jobs in North America’s most scenic wilderness areas. When they told me they’d worked steadily but had never used traditional RV employment services, I took a fresh look at the job market.