Tire Blow-Out on your RV

RV Tire Blow Out - How to Protect Yourself
By Keith A. Williams

Most RV tires do not fail due to excessive wear but due to deterioration over a period of time. I had a spare tire on my Hitchhiker II which had never been used ---yet it disintegrated while mounted to the rear of the trailer and covered, so I know it can happen!

Warren Hull's ezinearticles article titled "RV Tire Protection" covers the situation rather well. That article gives some tips on ways to retard the inevitable deterioration.

The bottom line to protecting yourself from the problems associated with a tire failure is simple:

Replace the tire before it causes a problem!

The next question, "When do I do that?" is not as simple to answer.

It has been said that RV tires should be replaced after about six years, regardless of the condition of the tread. My experience with my previous trailer would indicate that number is about right. Had I done so, it would have saved me a lot of inconvenience and some minor damage to the trailer.

But last week, I had a failure of a tire which was barely five years old! And it was on the north side of the trailer, winter and summer. My personal feeling is that a tire should last six, seven, or eight years.

I'm hoping that this failure was a fluke. If another one fails this year, it's straight to the tire store for a new set!

Tires have a date code molded into the sidewall, so it is easy to know the age of our tires. The code is four digits, with the first two being the week of the year and the second two being the year the tire was manufactured. Example: A tire with the date code "0607" would have been made in February (sixth week of the year), 2007.

The four-digit code went into effect in July, 2000. Prior to that, the date code was a three-digit code, with the year being represented by a single digit.

If your tires have a three-digit code, don't be surprised if they fail! They're over seven years old and definitely will not last forever.

Copyright 2007 Keith A. Williams

The author is a part-time RVer who has learned about tire failures and date codes by experience.

He has published other RV-related articles which you may find educational. His websites are also useful: http://countyparks.us reveals the "hidden secret" of county parks. (So far, it doesn't live up to its full potential, but bear with him.)

Two others relate to the RV Awning Travel Lock which he markets ---again, because of a very unpleasant experience. You can visit them here: http://awninglock.com and http://awninglock.info The info there could save you a big mess and hundreds of dollars.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_A._Williams
http://EzineArticles.com/?RV-Tire-Blow-Out---How-to-Protect-Yourself&id=646451

Buying a New or Used RV?

Buying a New or Used RV?
By Ray F Oberreuter

If a new or used RV is in your future…here are a few tips. Buying a new or used motor home, 5th wheel, travel trailer, or folding camper is always exciting as we anticipate places we will visit and the new friends we will meet in our new RV or camper... It is exciting and it should be as the RV industry is indeed “alive and well”, sales continue to be strong, and the future looks bright as well. RV’ing is a tremendous form of recreation and is a great way for families to get away together.

As an RV technician, I have a unique perspective as I see these buyers six months to a year later when the euphoria of the buying process is long past and the reality has set in. By this time RV owners have a much better understanding of what they bought, mistakes which were made in the buying process, and the things they would do differently if they ever have the opportunity again.

Here are some of the major mistakes I have encountered so I am passing them on to interested RV’ers to help you avoid and some of the most common pitfalls motor home, 5th wheel, and travel trailer buyer’s encounter.

Buying the wrong RV heads up the list and explains why there are so many late model RV’s on the market. When it comes to supply and demand there is no shortage of used RV’s on the market. So why do people buy wrong? The answer is simple. The glitz and glamour of RV dealer showrooms and lots can easily sidetrack unsuspecting buyers away from their true needs when they see RV’s which look better than their own homes. In short, “emotion overtakes logic” leading some to buy the wrong RV, usually one which is too large for ones true needs.

Another pitfall is going through the selection and buying process too quickly. Buying an RV is a major expenditure so taking ones time is only prudent both with the decision of RV type and size but also of delivery. Those who “think” they need their RV tomorrow and coerce their dealer into delivering it too quickly as making a big mistake which will result in “down time”(time in which your RV will not be available to you for your use) in the future. If you need it tomorrow it only means you did not begin your search process soon enough.

Another major pitfall is buyers conducting a “poor” inspection of their RV. It does not matter if you are buying a new or used RV, an “in depth” inspection is crucial. After all even if you’re buying new do you want an RV assembled on a Monday morning or Friday afternoon? Trust me, you do not, and an in depth inspection will reveal both poor design and any lack of attention to detail in the final assembly process.

Last but certainly not least is the fallacy of placing too much stock in RV manufacturer’s warranties. I’m not saying they’re not important because they are, but believe it or not , in some cases three years is not enough time to make some of the necessary repairs on some RV’s. The truth of the matter is your new RV should not have to go back to the dealer more than twice in the first year to eighteen months. The reality is people get “worn down” dragging their RV back to the dealership repeatedly while also loosing the right to use their RV as it sits on the RV dealer’s lot. An in depth inspection and slowing down the buying process can alleviate much of these types of problems. I continue to be amazed at the number of people who buy RV’s with things that simply are not working. Sometimes its naiveté as many assume too much. My advice is when buying an RV NEVER ASSUME ANYTHING!

One last word about buying used. Some of the best deals out there are used RV’s (the seller eats the depreciation, not you) and an in depth inspection goes a long way in reducing ones risk when buying used. You just have to know how to do it. If you feel you are not knowledgeable or experienced enough to be able to do this let me assure you there is a lot of good information available to help you. I encourage you to seek it out and do your homework because it is time and effort, which most assuredly will pay off. That is my wish for you that all of us will be "happy campers".

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ray_F_Oberreuter
http://EzineArticles.com/?Buying-a-New-or-Used-RV?&id=645605

Tips for RV Trips

Tips for RV Trips
By Ray Smith

It’s always a pleasant adventure to drive down in your RV across the open roads and enjoy the natural beauty to your hearts content. RVs have become an indispensable item for people who love to embark on long journeys to the wildernesses and great outdoors. Indeed it is much better than the boring journeys in your cold old car – its so much fun to enjoy the comforts of home while traveling across scenic locations fro your dream vacation. However, one of the major challenges that are faced by all RV owners is to drive safely and successfully on open roads.

Just because of its sheer size it is often more difficult to drive a recreational vehicle compared to a car or even a truck. Particularly, when you are on the highway, it is important that your motorhome blends in well with the smaller cars that are much more agile and your car doesn’t really block the road and create trouble for other drivers on the road. When you are driving recreational vehicle it is important that you are well aware of the road and traffic rules. There are various points that you need to be particularly careful about when you are on the streets in your RV.

Be Patient: Always keep in mind the size of your recreational vehicle, it is not your small car that you can blaze through the road. While on your recreational vehicle it is important to be patient and drive slow. Recreational vehicles are just not the type to drive aggressively at a high speed. Its just like you are adding wheels to your home and driving it along, so you need to give due consideration to its bulk and keep the speed in control. For those drivers who are a bit impatient it is often difficult to adjust to this slow moving giants but for a safe travel it is important that you adjust your mindset. Try to keep your speed below 10 miles per hour. 10 miles per hour would be relatively good speed for a RV that would keep things under control yet cover enough ground in short span.

Plan and Create Your Road Map: If you can plan your road map well that would probably save you more than half the trouble with your RV. Try to avoid interstates and highways that are particularly known for high-speed traffic. Also, it is very helpful, if you can plan your tour to avoid driving through busy cities during rush hours. Try to avoid the more commonly used routes and find alternative routes that has relatively less traffic and often offer better natural view. However, it is also important that while deciding on these alternative routes, you have complete information about these routes so that you don’t get stuck at some point due to narrow or bad road conditions.

Never drive in bad weather: Bad weather conditions put up a challenge for all drivers irrespective of the type of vehicle they are driving and the challenge is even greater if you are driving a RV. Motor homes and recreational vehicles generally do not take to bad weathers and are particularly difficult top drive during high strong winds. It is advisable to take off the roads during bad weather and drive another day once the weather has calmed down.

Avoid Slopes: Try to avoid slopes, both uphill and downhill when driving your RV. It becomes very difficult to drive up steep slopes and also to control your RV while moving downhill. Even if it requires you to travel a few extra miles off your route it is always better to do so than to take the risk of moving up or down the slope.

Towing Vehicles: Towing a vehicle is a common practice for RV owners but it makes driving an RV all the more difficult. You need to be doubly cautious when you have a towing vehicle along with your motor home. It is advisable to detach towing vehicle when you need to backup your RV. Unhook the towing vehicle and park it safely, then ask someone to guide you, when you back up the RV.

Campground Reservations: Always try to make your campground reservations in advance. Use the campground directories to locate and plan the campgrounds that you would use for your overnight stays. If you are going to stay at a campground where you have never stayed before, it is also wise to do your reservation for just one night to ensure that the campground meets your requirements than to do a longer reservation for cost cutting.

RV trips are meant for enjoyment and pleasure. Following these basic guidelines would definitely be helpful to ensure road safety and better organize your RV trip for hassle free enjoyment.

This article is written by Ray Smith, a marketing expert with years of experience in different industries and specialized knowledge on SEO and Internet marketing. Used RV Motorhomes For Sale

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ray_Smith
http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-for-RV-Trips&id=566715

RV's And Campers
By Tony Harries

Motorhomes, also referred to as RVs or recreational vehicles, have greatly increased in popularity in recent years and are an excellent way to experience comfortable road travel. Unlike a commercial vehicle, RVs have full power steering and automatic transmission. Motorhomes offer excellent performance for their size and weight with diesel power for the majority of vehicles today, offering excellent fuel efficiency.

RV’s and Motorhomes are the ideal form of travel for those who like to spend their vacation time going camping in the mountains, running on the beach, or sightseeing along the highways and byways.

Motorhomes are a popular way to follow sporting events around the world, they are also ideal for shows and events, where you can be on-site close to all the action yet with your luxurious home-from-home there with you.

A motorhome is the ideal family vehicle, the driver’s compartment is connected to the cabin so that, even on the road, your whole family is together. Fully-equipped with a toilet, hot shower, air-conditioning, water tank plus a small kitchen including fridge, stove and oven, giving you complete freedom and flexibility.

Motorhomes usually have a 240 volt power inlet which can be hooked up to power the larger appliances such as air conditioners and microwaves. The on-board fresh water tank holds approximately 120 litres and will last between two and four days before it needs refilling.

Motorhomes are easy to drive but different to a car, Take things at a steadier pace and try to anticipate braking and cornering to make the journey more comfortable and reduce the number of complaints from the navigators.

Motorhomes have limited through-vision and some none at all so you soon start to rely on the mirrors. Small coastal and country roads get congested during the holiday periods and you have to be more aware of narrow bridges and roadside hedges as the motorhome is wider than a normal car.

Motorhomes, or motorized recreational vehicles (RVs), come in different classes.
Van campers, also known as Class B motorhomes, are basically small RVs created from a standard conversion or mini van and usually feature a raised roof. These motorhomes are the least expensive RVs to own and operate, and are generally also the easiest to drive around town as well as on the highway.

The size of a Class B RV usually varies from 16 feet to 21 feet, it gets you on the road to adventure in a compact size that's fun and easy to drive, for a price ranging between $33,000 to $75,000.

Class A motor homes are generally thought of as top of the line among RVs. As the largest and most elaborate of the RVs, similar in stature to a bus, this class is, of course, the most expensive, with some sporting sticker prices in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Depending on the model and floor plan, Class A RVs will sleep up to 8 people. But a decent used Class A motorhome can usually be found for below the hundred thousand dollar mark or so.

All RVs are incredibly well insulated, and because they’re only small compared to, say, a house, keeping them warm or cool is a cinch.
The quality and appointments of RVs continue to improve, with owners realising they can travel with all of the luxuries of home.

There's one way to check out motor homes before you choose one to buy, and that's by renting several and taking them on trial runs.

It's a good idea to rent different models from different manufacturers to see what features you like, what you don't like, and how the models handle on the road and in the campground. Then you can make a more informed decision when you purchase a motor home. Check out your local area for the best deals on renting.

So, whatever model you choose just have fun and enjoy!

REPRINT RIGHTS: You may copy this article and use it where you wish as long as you run the article with every word intact including the bio resource box.

Tony Harries

www.jacksworldshop.com/Rv-And-Campers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Harries
http://EzineArticles.com/?RVs-And-Campers&id=588411

Checklist For Buying A Used Motorhome

Used Motorhome Checklist - Points To Save Your Money
By Sam D'costa

Buying an used motorhome can be sometimes very hectic and isn't simple. It can become very difficult when you are planning to live in the motorhome for any amount of time.

For this reason, it is always essential to have some important checklists to go over to see any problems you might be facing after buying a used RV Motorhome. Sellers usually don't tell you the problems they know of, as the saying goes "Buyers Beware". The dealer will make his commission no matter how long the RV was in use, so it is up to you to make sure you get the best deal.

Not to waste any more time, some key points have been presented to look over when planning to buy a used motorhome.

Checking the Engine and Oil


Engine and Oil is the lifeblood for any vehicle. Checking the oil would be a great start to ensure the condition of the engine. If the oil smells burnt, you may have a problem on your hands.

Rust Condition


Rust is the natural breakdown of iron and metal. RVs travelling in those parts of the country having snow and salt will be more prone to rust. Purchasing used motor homes from the south can help this rust problem, but they will cost a bit more. If there is structural rust on the frames, it is better to avoid those motorhomes as they are at their end of life.

Service Records


Service records will show the proper maintenance of the motorhome maintained by the previous user. It will also show you the number of previous user of that RV. And if they fail to provide any paperwork, its advisable not to settle for that used motorhome.

Motorhome Financing


Finance companies offer better options for certain RV builders, on certain models especially those that have low depreciation. The purchase of an used motorhome should be done without a thorough inspection of the finance options attached to that RV.

According to me, learning enough about used motorhomes to make an educated buying decision is just another good common sense. What you learn before you get the used motorhome will certainly carry over into what you will need to know to keep your motorhome in proper shape.

Sam D'Costa is well known professional in Online Marketing and web promotions
used motorhome dealer

Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Sam_D
http://EzineArticles.com/?Used-Motorhome-Checklist---Points-To-Save-Your-Money&id=643608

Google Earth and GPS to Help You Find Your Destination

Use Google Earth and GPS To Find Your Destination
By Keith A. Williams

We were planning a visit to a relatives house, one to which we've been but I had forgotten exactly which road to turn on to get there. We would be taking our 5th-wheel trailer, as we'd be camping at their homestead.

The Find > Address answer in my GPS was ambiguous. I wanted solid confirmation that we would be going to the correct place. What to do?

Google Earth to the rescue! I opened Google Earth and quickly found the location. Then, I placemarked the location. (Add > Placemark) Once the placemark pin was inserted, I right clicked on the pin, went to Properties, and read off and wrote down the latitude and longitude.

The next step was to create a waypoint in my GPS by manually putting the latitude and longitude into the GPS.

When I arrived at the destination, a bit over 200 miles away, I drove up to the camping spot and stopped before backing the trailer into the spot they had prepared for us.

I glanced at the GPS data field: Distance to Destination: 3 feet!

The combination of Google Earth and GPS can be a provide a simple, yet very high-tech, way to find practically any spot on the face of the earth. Here are some things for which it may prove useful:

• Find campground or RV park
  
• Locate destination for a load of goods to be delivered
  
• Find a business which you need to visit
  
• Locate a relative's home
  
• Find the location of a hall or hotel where you will be making a presentation.
  

Both Google Earth and GPS are amazingly accurate. In the situations described above, the major inaccuracy will be introduced by your setting of the Placemark. Accuracy of the GPS itself will probably be within a very few tens of feet.

Copyright 2007 Keith A. Williams

The author is mechanically and technically inclined and is a part-time RVer who enjoys more natural settings than commercial campgrounds.

This is his fifth EZine Article, most of which relate to RVing. One was about the "good deal" county parks provide. Although incomplete, you can see his county parks site here: http://countyparks.us

His first two RV-related article were "The Greatest Myth in RVing -- and What To Do About It" and "RV Awning Travel Lock -- Why Do I Need One?" These two commercially oriented sites relate to those subjects: http://awninglock.com and http://awninglock.info on which he offers a product in which he believes every RVer should have an interest.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_A._Williams
http://EzineArticles.com/?Use-Google-Earth-and-GPS-To-Find-Your-Destination&id=633937

Buying Your Dream Motorhome or RV

Buying My Dream RV - What's Available?
By Richard C Myers

RVs, recreational vehicles, come in two broad types, motorized and towable. Both groups combine accommodation for those seeking recreation in the outdoors with transportation and there are a wide range covering most budgets and needs. These can range from the simple camping trailer to the full motorhome, the size of a small backwoods cabin!

Motorized recreational vehicles fall into 3 classes, A, B and C, generally self-contained with waste water treatment, appliances, gas supply etc. Class A motorhomes are the ones that offer just about every creature comfort that you could ever require! They are generally around 30 to 40 feet in length and built on a truck chassis. This naturally comes at a price and these are the most expensive. Some even have a 'slideout', this is a portion of the exterior wall that will slide out from the RV at the touch of a button, immediately extending the habitable area. Class B motorhome are the smallest of the categories, at around 20 long at most. These are the camper van style of home, where the accommodation has been added to an existing van chassis. They are sometimes referred to as van conversion motorhomes. There is no change to the length or width of these, the main change is to the height and often the accommodation is extended out above the cab. Although the space is quite limited, they offer many home comforts and can be used as a day to day vehicle. They are also the most economical of the motorhomes. Class C motorhomes are regarded as smaller versions of their class A big brothers. There is usually a bunk above the cab and they are fitted with just about every modern convenience you could need out on the road. They are generally 30 feet or less in length and built on a large van chassis.

The towable options are great for people who want the convenience of a family automobile and the comfort of a recreational vehicle. The camping trailer is simply a trailer with a folding tent built on. These take up little storage room and are quick and convenient to set up at your destination - an RV on a small budget! Truck campers (also known as pickup campers or slide-on campers) are also convenient. You simply slide on and clamp a hard shell, containing the camper van accommodation and appliances, on to your pick-up and away you go. The room in these is fairly limited but they are ideal for frequent weekend trips. Travel trailers range in size from a small 'bedroom on wheels' to a monster 'cabin on wheels' that would rival any class A motorhome. You may need modifications other than the towing bar if you get yourself one of the larger ones. A variation of the travel trailer is the fifth wheel trailer, so called because it has a circular coupling that articulates the rig. They are big, generally designed for full-size pick-ups. They are a good alternative to the travel trailer as the load is distributed centrally in the towing vehicle.

Whatever RV you choose to buy, consider your needs and choose carefully. It is also worth seeking advice before proceeding with such a major purchase as you are likely to own it for many years so you need to get it right first time.

Don't buy a lemon! Buy your dream RV with confidence - the recreational vehicle buyer's guide on DVD will show you what to look for and what to avoid.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_C_Myers
http://EzineArticles.com/?Buying-My-Dream-RV---Whats-Available?&id=601566

Satellite Internet For Your Motorhome

Motorhome Satellite Internet
By Adrien White

The Internet has moved from novelty to virtual necessity for many people in recent years. motorhome satellite internet technology brings this necessity to your motorhome.

For many people, the internet has become a way of life. It is used to keep in touch with family and friends. It is used to pay bills and handle banking transactions. It is used to retrieve information of all types quickly. All of these functions are as important on your motorhome vacation as when you are sitting at home. motorhome satellite internet semotorhomeices have made it possible to perform all of them when on the road.

The motorhome satellite internet semotorhomeices generally operate with dish type antennas. These antennas use GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) technology to locate and lock on to a satellite which provides the internet connection. The two basic types of antennas are called automatic and tripod. The automatic antennas are permanent mounted to the motorhome. They have a “stow” position that protects them from wind when the vehicle is in motion. Most of them will automatically go into stow mode when the GPS senses the vehicle is in motion, although there is a stow button on the controller.

The tripod antennas must be manually set up and connected. They are much less expensive than the automatic antennas, but the time required to set them up and take them down makes them less practical for quick internet connection during rest breaks. They are designed to be used when the motorhome has moved to a permanent camp site. People who wish to have quick access to the internet even during short stops usually opt for the automatic antennas.

The systems are not perfect. An unobstructed view of the southern sky is needed and trees or buildings can block the reception. Cloud cover and weather conditions can have some effect on reception, but usually only in the most extreme storm conditions. For the most part, access is fairly easy to achieve. Most of the satellite internet provider semotorhomeices offer broadband semotorhomeices with extremely fast download times. It is possible to combine your internet reception with satellite TV on the same system.

The initial cost of the system is a bit high, especially when you go with an automatic antenna. Once you have your system installed, the monthly costs for semotorhomeice are in line with normal internet semotorhomeice. The advantages of having immediate internet semotorhomeice in your motorhome are many. For years, motorhomeers have been carrying laptops and connecting to the internet in a variety of difficult and time consuming methods. The motorhome satellite internet system has made the internet as much a part of the motorhome experience as the stove and sink.

Find more information on RV campgrounds at http://www.RVRentalsforyou.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adrien_White
http://EzineArticles.com/?Motorhome-Satellite-Internet&id=627702

RV Tire Protection

RV Tire Protection
By Warren Hull

Very few RV tires actually wear out. Most of them rot out due at least partially to the sun. The sun's UV rays are persistently working away at the tire rubber. This deterioration leads to cracks in the sidewalls and tread areas. When these cracks get bad enough, your tire gives up. The result is at best a flat tire, at worst, a blowout. All of us have seen rigs along side the road with shredded tires.

Too often, the damage is not just the tire, but also damage to the rig. Sometimes, the end result is loss of control and a crash. It is important to actually inspect your tires for proper inflation and condition each trip out. If you have any doubts, go to your trusted tire supplier for an inspection. The life you save might be mine.

You can’t stop tire deterioration, but you can sure slow it down. Just like you protect your skin from the sun, you can protect your tires from the sun. One of the best methods is to keep your tires out of the sun. How? Cover your tires. There are vinyl tire covers that wrap around the tire. There are flat tire covers that attach to the side of your rig and drape over the tires. The wrap around are less expensive, but more difficult to install. The flat allow air to circulate, match the rig better, easier to install especially without getting your sleeves dirty, but cost more. Plywood can be leaned up against them, but it does look tacky. Some chemical compounds can be applied like sun tan lotion. Not all work equally. In fact, some tire companies speak out against them. There are some that probably do more damage than good.

Actual use of your rig promotes tire longevity. The flexing of the tire through use actually releases some of the internal rubber compounds. These components help protect the tire. There is nothing like another reason to use your RV. If your RV is going to be parked for an extended period of time, then use a vapor barrier between the concrete or asphalt and your tire.

A major cause of tire failure is under inflation. Follow the instructions and inflate your tires to the proper pressure for your RV weight. Check the pressure when the tires are cold. Buy a decent tire pressure gauge from your local auto parts store. They are cheap when compared to the price of a tire. If you are not sure of the right pressure, your local tire store can help you. A tire failure leaves you stranded by the side of the road. A blow out usually damages your RV. Avoid the problem as much as possible.

Your tires are an important part of your rig. Once you have done what you can, then get out there and enjoy your travels. There are lots to see and many places to visit. Do it!

Warren Hull is a co-founder of http://RVSungard.com - RVSungard.com carries tire covers and windshield covers for your trailer, motor home, or other recreational vehicle.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Warren_Hull
http://EzineArticles.com/?RV-Tire-Protection&id=614889

The Best Kept Secret in Camping - RVing!

The Best Kept Secret in Camping - RVing!
By Keith A. Williams

Most RV'ers have one or more of the big, thick, campground guides. But did you know that there are hundreds and hundreds of great campgrounds in all the states which are not included in those guides?

The best kept secret in RVing is campgrounds located in county parks! But where are they, and how do you find them? That's the big question!

Often these are relatively small and almost always off what most would consider the beaten path. But if you're looking for a quiet place to listen to the birds, wet a line, read a book, or maybe even meet a new friend, it might be well worth seeking out some of these neat spots.

One of these is F. W. Kent County Park, near Oxford, Iowa. It's just a few miles off I-80 Exits 230 or 237, on US-6 between Oxford and Tiffin. As I recall, it's about a mile square in size, has a "lake" (miniature), and lots of trees and trails for exploring.

If you want to explore this part of Iowa for a day or two, this park is conviently located for visits to the Amana Colonies, Coralville Mall (the second largest mall in Iowa), and the University of Iowa. The Amish and Mennonite town of Kalona is but a short drive away, too.

If you're a user of Google Earth, you can preview the park easily! Just type in "F. W. Kent Park, Iowa" and it will whisk you right there. I have even placed a pin on the entrance to the RV sites! If you're GPS equipped, right click on the pin, go to "Properties," and it will give you the lat/lon to plug into your unit. Then your GPS will take you right to the spot!

For some time I've felt that there should be a good way for any traveller to find county parks, so I purchased the domain name countyparks.us. The site is up and running, but so far it has little in the way of park information on it. I have a grand idea as to how to do it, but have yet to create it. When complete, it will be the neatest campground finding service available. (How's that for positive thinking!)

And you can help! If you'd like to recommend a county park in any state, please drop me a line about it? I'll figure out a way to share that info with our fellow RVers and campers!

Happy Camping!

The author is a part-time RVer who enjoys more natural settings than commercial campgrounds usually provide while en route and needs a place to spend a night or two. County park campgrounds are the answer!

Although incomplete, you can see his county parks site here: http://countyparks.us

He also has a couple of commercially oriented sites, http://awninglock.com and http://awninglock.info on which he offers a product in which he believes every RVer should have an interest.

This is his third RV-related article, the other two being "The Greatest Myth in RVing -- and What To Do About It" and "RV Awning Travel Lock -- Why Do I Need One?"

Copyright 2007 by Keith A. Williams

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_A._Williams
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Best-Kept-Secret-in-Camping---RVing!&id=600770

Motorhomes - The American Dream!

Motorhomes Drive Holiday Dreams Of Many Americans!
By Sam Ness

Motorhomes used in America, come in all shapes and sizes, from small to huge but most in-between. Many motorhomes are household names, and tens of thousands of these vehicles are manufactured each year. Some high end motorhome dealers may only make a handful each year, but the starting price for these luxury motorhomes is around half-million dollars.

Before making the commitment to buy a motorhome it is a really good idea to rent one first to see that you do indeed like the idea of owning a motorhome, and secondly to see if it is the type you would like to purchase. It is important when you buy your motorhome that it displays the oval RVIA sticker which means that it has met the high standards of the industry.

Most manufacturers of motorhomes in the US will publish catalogues that will show all models, sizes and amenities. This allows you plenty of scope to personalize your motor home to your needs. If you have to order your motorhome ahead then you will be able to have a say on carpet style and color, and upholstery. Of course if you are ordering one of the luxury motorhomes where price tags are around $200,000 upwards, you will be given many choices of not only interior but also the exterior.
More details are available at my website motorhomes-guide.com
In fact these custom built motor homes can be designed almost from scratch by the buyer.

One of the first decisions you will need to make when considering purchasing a motorhome is what type of vehicle you are going to purchase. The first is Class A, which generally is the largest and most comfortable, but also the most expensive types of motorhomes. They have large storage tanks and lots of space, the best ride, but against these are some drawbacks. This motorhome is harder to handle and maneuver in traffic, some roads will be inaccessible, and some parks will also not be able to accommodate the large size of the motorhome. You may not even be able to keep your motorhome at your residential home if you don't have enough driveways. The Class B motorhome is a converted van, and although it is obviously going to have space limitations, its smaller size is going to have plenty of advantages.

In fact these motorhomes can park anywhere a full sized sedan can, they are the least expensive to run, but they have quite cramped bath facilities. The Class C category of motorhome offers the best variety of motorhomes, varying in all sizes and competing with both the A and B motorhomes. These motorhomes are built on a truck or van chassis so they can be serviced easily and they are probably the safest of all the vehicles as they have been crash tested to meet truck safety standards.

Motorhomes fascinate Sam Ness so much, he writes about the newest trends in motorhomes and RVs in America in 2007. Motorhomes Guide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_Ness
http://EzineArticles.com/?Motorhomes-Drive-Holiday-Dreams-Of-Many-Americans!&id=612499

A Beginner's Guide to Motorhomes

A Beginner's Guide to Motorhomes
By Roland Head

Are you just starting out in motorhoming? Attracted to the idea but not sure what type of motorhome will suit you?

A good starting point is to understand the different types of motorhome - there are three main types of design.

1. Hightop Van Conversions

Often referred to as campervans, van conversions are generally the smallest and cheapest type of motorhome - which can be an advantage.

Based on so-called panel vans, such as the Ford Transit and the Fiat Ducato, they are generally only a little larger than a family car and are relatively easy to drive, manoeuvre and park - unlike some of their bigger cousins.

Modern conversions are usually very well specified - with heating, toilet, kitchen, running water and often a shower. The only catch is that all of these things are packed into a relatively small space - great for driving but sometimes a little cramped for living in.

Van conversion motorhomes are ideal for the more adventurous or for short breaks, but not necessarily the best choice for luxury or for families.

2. C-Class or Coachbuilt Motorhomes

Coachbuilt motorhomes (sometimes known as Class-C motorhomes) are effectively caravans built onto the back of a van cab and chassis - it may sound a bit Heath Robinson, but these are extremely well made, cleverly-designed and comfortable. They also offer surprising amounts of space, especially when it comes to sleeping berths.

A coachbuilt is probably the best choice for a family, with the overcab area providing ideal sleeping accommodation for children, and the larger interiors giving enough room for 4-6 people to sit and eat.

These motorhomes also tend to have larger kitchens and bathrooms - their extra width helps create more spacious layouts.

3. A-Class or Integrated Motorhomes

The luxury liners of the motorhome world, A-Class motorhomes are purpose-built from the chassis up - apart from the driving controls, there is no trace of "van" about these vehicles - instead they are luxury motorised homes. They are usually a similar size to C-Class motorhomes, but often have only two or three berths - designed for adults to travel in considerable comfort, rather than for fitting large families.

Of course, there are exceptions and A-class motorhomes offering 4-6 berths can also be found. Historically not so popular in the UK, they are becoming more common and have always been so in Europe.

I Almost Forgot…RVs

In principle, American RVs (Recreational Vehicles) are the same as A-Class motorhomes. The difference is in their scale and in the base vehicles used. RVs are built on lorry or coach chassis' and have extremely luxurious interiors, with every facility built in (normally including an on-board generator).

They are extremely large, expensive and luxurious - don't expect to go exploring on European backroads in one of these, as it won't fit. Road tax, fuel costs and insurance will also be considerably higher, as will road tolls.

Making the Choice

Whatever you choose, don't rush into it and make sure you understand the true cost of ownership - including storage (if it is too big for your driveway), insurance, breakdown cover and servicing.

Consider renting a motorhome for a holiday first to see if you like it - a week or two can teach you a lot about what type of motorhome suits you and enables you to try before you buy.

Motorhoming is a great way to travel around the UK and Europe - I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

MyLocalMotorhomeHire.co.uk provides independent information on motorhome hire in the UK.

It is especially aimed at first-time renters and those who are not experienced with motorhomes and is completely free.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roland_Head
http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Beginners-Guide-to-Motorhomes&id=603347