RVing For Senior Citizens
by Bob Carper
Many times my wife said to me, "I wish I could just run away, and run, and run !" I told her,"Where would you run to?" "We just can't pick up and run just like that !"
We've been stay at homes for the last seven years. Throughout that time, we've never investigated recreational vehicles. "RVing," is something that many people dream about. Driving down the open road in a recreational vehicle with everything that we need right at our fingertips can be an unforgettable experience. Promoters of RVs say that this will make our vacations better, and enhance our life in extraordinary ways.
However, we are retired and in our 70s. We live on a very limited budget. Thus, if we are to consider the joys of the open road, we have to think about a used RV rather than a new one. Although owning an RV can be very freeing, allowing us the ability to have limitless adventures, an adventure with the bank is not one of them. Our first recreational vehicle is going to be a used one, Because an RV is both a home as well as a vehicle, we must do our research. Used RVs, in great condition, are sold everyday. The key is in knowing where to find them.
Used RVs are typically sold by RV dealers. Finding a dealer that has a good reputation for selling used vehicles is not hard to do. Searching the Web under "RVs" is a good starting place. You should ask people that own an RV if they have a dealer that they can recommend to you. Let your friends know what you are looking for. Word of mouth is an excellent way to locate a dealer who will treat you right.
RV dealers will often have perfectly good used RVs on the lot that have been traded in for bigger and better models. Find out if they have one that had just a single owner before being traded in. Be sure that you walk through the RV, that has the accessories you want, and that everything is in working condition. Don't forget to test drive it as well. Your RV dealer will help you with every step, and answer any questions that you might have.
Keeping an eye on the classifieds in your local paper can help you locate dealers that have used RVs in excellent condition. You can, of course, buy from an individual, but you lose the benefits a dealer can offer, such as any available warranty. Don't forget to check the mileage, and don't be afraid to ask to take it to a mechanic that you trust to get it checked out. A reputable used RV dealer should have no problem with your request. Be sure that you ask how much oil it uses, and how many miles you can get to a gallon of gas.
Searching the internet is also a great tool for finding a dealer that offers good condition used RVs at the right price. Sometimes traveling to check out a great deal is worth the time and money that you put into it. Take your family along with you to make sure that it is a model that they all will be happy with. You will want your family to love the RV, and be comfortable on family camping trips and vacations; their input is an important part of your decision.
Accessories and extras are the most important issues in buying an RV besides the operating condition of the vehicle. The RV must be able to sleep a minimum of two persons comfortably, since it will be used on overnighters. Other living essentials will be a fridge / freezer and a microwave. There should also be a TV, a CD/DVD player, and good quality stereo speakers.
If you are going all out to have your RV serve as a home away from home, you should check out electrical and water / sewer connectors. However, if your campground operators have these utilities in a service building / restaurant, you will not need these extras.
Finding a used recreational vehicle in great condition ss not difficult to do. Be sure that you are looking in all of the above places, and you will locate the vehicle of your dreams. That next family vacation does not have to be a distant dream; make it a reality and take your family on the best vacation they can imagine in a great used RV.
Bob Carper is a veteran information systems consultant with an MBA from Pitt. For additional information go to All About Webconferencing or My Power Mall. You may also e-mail Bob at robertcarper06@comcast.net
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Showing posts with label benefits of an RV. Show all posts
Showing posts with label benefits of an RV. Show all posts
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Know a little more about Airstream Travel Trailers
Know a little more about Airstream Travel Trailers
by Keggy Cass
The Airstream Travel Trailers of today are just as unique as the ever popular Airstream Travel Trailers of yesterday! The little silver bullets flowing down our freeways and back roads roll into camping sites all over America to still catch the eyes of the people along the way. This may have been invented in America, but they have reached traveling campers all over the world.
The inventor of this amazing trailer was a young man from a little town called Baker, Oregon in the Pacific Northwest corner of America. As a young boy, Wally Byam would travel often with his Grandfather who led a mule train. During these many mule train escapades, outdoor living and travels became a way of life for Wally Byam and he took in all, he could on these adventures. Wally went on to graduate with a law degree in 1923, but never practiced law. Instead he began working in a handful of other professions, along with publishing. Due to a wrongly written article on a camping trailer model, done by a writer under him, Wally corrected the article mistakes and started to build his own camper model plans.
With better articulations, done on the trailer model plans by Wally over a period of time, it was not long until these trailers were invented in 1934 and named Airstream for the reason of moving down the road like a stream of air.
In 1936, the Airstream Trailer Company came out with the Clipper model that really began the Airstream's familiar looks and original camping travel trailer comfort's. The Clipper was the original one of the riveted aluminum body and could sleep four, because of a tubular steel-framed dinette that could convert into a bed. There was advanced insulation and ventilation system, a type of air conditioning using dry ice, electricity throughout and its own built in water supply.
In 1979, the ever popular Airstream Travel Trailer expanded into the motor home industry, very similar to the original Airstream Travel Trailer, there was still the riveted aluminum construction, but with improved aerodynamics. In 1989, there was the introduction of laminated fiberglass construction, patent front and rear end caps. Today, the original model of trailers still roll down the roads along side the newer versions of the best selling Airstream motor homes still being created on the current market demand.
Keggy Cass loves the open roads and especially traveling when taking all the conveniences along for the trip. One catch though, he does not get to spend near enough time on the open roads. Browsing this website is a good second choice: http://www.camperbargain.com
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by Keggy Cass
The Airstream Travel Trailers of today are just as unique as the ever popular Airstream Travel Trailers of yesterday! The little silver bullets flowing down our freeways and back roads roll into camping sites all over America to still catch the eyes of the people along the way. This may have been invented in America, but they have reached traveling campers all over the world.
The inventor of this amazing trailer was a young man from a little town called Baker, Oregon in the Pacific Northwest corner of America. As a young boy, Wally Byam would travel often with his Grandfather who led a mule train. During these many mule train escapades, outdoor living and travels became a way of life for Wally Byam and he took in all, he could on these adventures. Wally went on to graduate with a law degree in 1923, but never practiced law. Instead he began working in a handful of other professions, along with publishing. Due to a wrongly written article on a camping trailer model, done by a writer under him, Wally corrected the article mistakes and started to build his own camper model plans.
With better articulations, done on the trailer model plans by Wally over a period of time, it was not long until these trailers were invented in 1934 and named Airstream for the reason of moving down the road like a stream of air.
In 1936, the Airstream Trailer Company came out with the Clipper model that really began the Airstream's familiar looks and original camping travel trailer comfort's. The Clipper was the original one of the riveted aluminum body and could sleep four, because of a tubular steel-framed dinette that could convert into a bed. There was advanced insulation and ventilation system, a type of air conditioning using dry ice, electricity throughout and its own built in water supply.
In 1979, the ever popular Airstream Travel Trailer expanded into the motor home industry, very similar to the original Airstream Travel Trailer, there was still the riveted aluminum construction, but with improved aerodynamics. In 1989, there was the introduction of laminated fiberglass construction, patent front and rear end caps. Today, the original model of trailers still roll down the roads along side the newer versions of the best selling Airstream motor homes still being created on the current market demand.
Keggy Cass loves the open roads and especially traveling when taking all the conveniences along for the trip. One catch though, he does not get to spend near enough time on the open roads. Browsing this website is a good second choice: http://www.camperbargain.com
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Sunday, January 20, 2008
Diesel Motor Home vs Gasoline Motor Home
Diesel Motor Home vs Gasoline Motor Home
by J Bond
When considering the purchase of a motor home, one needs to decide whether to buy gasoline (petrol) or diesel. Essentially, there will be very little difference between the two in terms of the interior comforts and road performance, however, there are differences that one needs to consider before making a purchase.
To begin with, price is going to be a consideration since diesel motor homes will cost more than motor homes run on gasoline. There are new super chassis gasoline models available (Ford and GM) which present excellent buying. They have excellent carrying capacity and are less expensive than diesel. Alternatively, some of the more popular diesel motor homes include, Monaco, Newmar, Holiday Rambler and Fleetwood.
Oil and maintenance are also considerations when deciding whether to purchase a diesel motor home or gasoline model. Generally, oil changes and maintenance are less expensive on the gasoline models with an oil change on a diesel motor home costing between $175-$250. However, diesel motor homes tend to ride quieter because the engine is in the rear on most. Another advantage that diesel motor homes have over standard gasoline models is the cargo carrying capacity. Diesel models can carry more cargo and this includes heavier materials in the interior of the motor home such as Corian counter tops, china toilets etc.
Additionally, diesel motor homes usually have superior transmissions and pac brakes. These are important considerations if you intend to do a lot of mountain driving. Another important factor to consider when buying a motor home is the longevity of the vehicle. Diesel motor homes tend to run forever whereas in the long run, gasoline motor homes will generally require much more maintenance.
So there you have it! Make sure that you fully understand the fundamental differences between a diesel motor home and a gasoline motor home before making your purchase. You will also need to research a variety of companies who offer these motor homes for sale to ensure that you are paying the right price for your vehicle. Whether you decide to go diesel or gasoline, the flexibility that motor homes bring to your holiday adventures will be both exciting, flexible and extremely comfortable.
To access more information on motor homes click on the link in the resource box or go to: www.motorhomessite.com
More resources can be found at: www.motorhomessite.com
Article Directory: Article Dashboard
by J Bond
When considering the purchase of a motor home, one needs to decide whether to buy gasoline (petrol) or diesel. Essentially, there will be very little difference between the two in terms of the interior comforts and road performance, however, there are differences that one needs to consider before making a purchase.
To begin with, price is going to be a consideration since diesel motor homes will cost more than motor homes run on gasoline. There are new super chassis gasoline models available (Ford and GM) which present excellent buying. They have excellent carrying capacity and are less expensive than diesel. Alternatively, some of the more popular diesel motor homes include, Monaco, Newmar, Holiday Rambler and Fleetwood.
Oil and maintenance are also considerations when deciding whether to purchase a diesel motor home or gasoline model. Generally, oil changes and maintenance are less expensive on the gasoline models with an oil change on a diesel motor home costing between $175-$250. However, diesel motor homes tend to ride quieter because the engine is in the rear on most. Another advantage that diesel motor homes have over standard gasoline models is the cargo carrying capacity. Diesel models can carry more cargo and this includes heavier materials in the interior of the motor home such as Corian counter tops, china toilets etc.
Additionally, diesel motor homes usually have superior transmissions and pac brakes. These are important considerations if you intend to do a lot of mountain driving. Another important factor to consider when buying a motor home is the longevity of the vehicle. Diesel motor homes tend to run forever whereas in the long run, gasoline motor homes will generally require much more maintenance.
So there you have it! Make sure that you fully understand the fundamental differences between a diesel motor home and a gasoline motor home before making your purchase. You will also need to research a variety of companies who offer these motor homes for sale to ensure that you are paying the right price for your vehicle. Whether you decide to go diesel or gasoline, the flexibility that motor homes bring to your holiday adventures will be both exciting, flexible and extremely comfortable.
To access more information on motor homes click on the link in the resource box or go to: www.motorhomessite.com
More resources can be found at: www.motorhomessite.com
Article Directory: Article Dashboard
Friday, December 7, 2007
Winter RV Battery Storage
Winter RV Battery Storage
By Mark Polk
The two most common causes for RV battery failure are undercharging and overcharging.
Undercharging is a result of batteries being repeatedly discharged and not fully recharged between cycles. If a battery is not recharged the sulfate material that attaches to the discharged portions of the plates begins to harden into crystals. Over time this sulfate cannot be converted back into active plate material and the battery is ruined. This also occurs when a battery remains discharged for an extended period of time, like during storage. Sulfation is the number one cause of battery failure. The second leading cause of battery failure is overcharging. Overcharging batteries results in severe water loss and plate corrosion. With that said let's look at how to properly store your RV batteries.
Before we talk about storing the batteries we need to talk about battery safety. Lead acid batteries contain sulfuric acid which is extremely corrosive and can cause severe burns or even blindness. And the hydrogen gas that batteries produce when they're charging is very explosive. When you work around batteries you need to wear goggles and gloves, remove all jewelry and do not smoke or use any open flames.
Caution: If you accidentally get battery acid on your skin, flush it with lots of water and if it gets in your eyes flush with low pressure water for 15 minutes and call a doctor.
When you put the RV in long term storage it's a good idea to remove the batteries and put them in storage too. This is quite simple to do. The first thing we want to do is visually inspect the batteries for any obvious damage. Any fluid on or around the battery may be an indication that electrolyte is leaking from the battery. A damaged or leaking battery should be replaced immediately. Whenever you remove any battery always remember to remove the negative terminal or cable first, and then the positive cable.
Battery Tip: When you remove a battery turn off the ignition switch, all electrical switches, and any battery disconnect switches before you disconnect the battery cables. Whenever you remove any battery cables label them first so you remember how they go back on the battery. When you reinstall the battery do it in the reverse order. Install the positive cable first and then the negative cable.
Clean the batteries with a 50/50 mixture of baking soda and water if necessary, i.e. use one pound of baking soda to one gallon of water. Now you can check the electrolyte level in each cell and add distilled water if necessary. The minimum level required is at the top of the plates. If it's below the plates add enough distilled water to cover the plates before you charge the battery.
Test the battery state of charge with a voltmeter or hydrometer and charge any batteries that are at or below 80%. An 80% charge is approximately 12.5 volts for a 12 volt battery and 6.25 volts for a 6 volt battery. Lead sulfation starts when a battery state of charge drops below 80%. After charging the batteries check and fill each cell to 1/8 inch below the fill well with distilled water. Overfilling cells will cause battery acid to overflow.
Caution: Batteries should only be charged in a well ventilated area and keep any sparks and open flames away from a battery being charged. Check the electrolyte levels before and after charging batteries.
A discharged or partially charged battery will freeze much faster than a charged battery. Store the batteries in a cool dry place but not where they could freeze. Batteries in storage will loose a percentage of current through internal leakage. It's not uncommon for a battery to discharge up to 10% a month when it is being stored. Cold temperatures slow this natural discharge process down and warmer temperatures speed the process up. Test the
stored battery state of charge every month and charge batteries that are at or below an 80% state of charge.
Completely charge the batteries before re-installing them next spring. For optimum performance you can equalize the batteries after they are fully charged. An equalizing charge is an increase in charging voltage similar to a bulk charge to convert any crystallized lead sulfate back into its original components.
If you decide to leave the batteries in the RV while it is in storage remember to check the state of charge monthly and charge any batteries at or below an 80% charge. Some RV converter multi-stage chargers and aftermarket chargers are designed to maintain a float charge on the battery without removing the batteries from the RV. Remember, for the converter charger to work the RV will need to be plugged in to electricity.
For more information on RV batteries check out our Deep Cycle Battery Care & Maintenance DVD.
Happy Camping,
Mark Polk
Copyright 2007 by Mark J. Polk, owner of RV Education 101
RV Expert Mark Polk, seen on TV, is the producer & host of America's most highly regarded series of DVD's, videos, books, and e-books. http://www.rveducation101.com/
Sign up for your free "RV Education 101" Newsletter http://rveducation101.com/email/
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Sunday, December 2, 2007
Benefits Of An RV - The Recreational Vehicle
Benefits Of A Recreational Vehicle
by Terry Bolton
A recreational vehicle or RV is a vehicle that you can use to travel around in. It basically offers the same amenities as a home, such as a kitchen and bathroom, but on wheels so it is portable and you can use it to cook and sleep in while you are traveling around the world. RVs are incredibly popular and it is really no wonder why, as they offer such versatility and enjoyment.
You can fill up your recreational vehicle and head out for a road trip, as long as you want, and will never have to worry about finding food or lodging along the way. You can take your recreational vehicle wherever you want and so they are perfect for the avid travelers out there.
If you are interested in purchasing your own recreational vehicle, then there are a few factors you are going to want to take into consideration before you get out there and start looking for yourself.
How to Choose
What with all the wonderful options out there it is really no wonder why so many people find themselves lost and confused when they are looking around trying to purchase an RV. There are a few things that you can use to help you out with your decision here however.
For one, you will want to check out any RV before purchasing it, making sure that you look for scratches, dents, missing light bulbs, and so on, even if you are buying brand new. You are going to have to consider how many people are going to be using the RV on a regular basis and use this to determine how large of a recreational vehicle you are going to need to purchase, as you want to ensure that the RV is roomy enough to let everyone inside be comfortable and have the necessary equipment ready.
You should always test drive an RV before putting any money down for it, and remember that just because it may look good, this certainly does not mean that what is under the engine is worthy of the price tag. If the dealer is unwilling to let you take the vehicle for a test drive then you can really only assume that there is something they are trying to hide, something that is wrong with the vehicle.
Whether you are a camping or traveling enthusiast or just like to get away and are looking for a recreational vehicle, know that you have plenty of options. As long as you take your time and be smart with your decisions, you will find an RV that is perfectly suited to you and your needs.
Terry Bolton is an internet publisher of automotive stuff. Read his useful and popular articles about how to find cheap used cars and car parts
Article Directory: Article Dashboard
by Terry Bolton
A recreational vehicle or RV is a vehicle that you can use to travel around in. It basically offers the same amenities as a home, such as a kitchen and bathroom, but on wheels so it is portable and you can use it to cook and sleep in while you are traveling around the world. RVs are incredibly popular and it is really no wonder why, as they offer such versatility and enjoyment.
You can fill up your recreational vehicle and head out for a road trip, as long as you want, and will never have to worry about finding food or lodging along the way. You can take your recreational vehicle wherever you want and so they are perfect for the avid travelers out there.
If you are interested in purchasing your own recreational vehicle, then there are a few factors you are going to want to take into consideration before you get out there and start looking for yourself.
How to Choose
What with all the wonderful options out there it is really no wonder why so many people find themselves lost and confused when they are looking around trying to purchase an RV. There are a few things that you can use to help you out with your decision here however.
For one, you will want to check out any RV before purchasing it, making sure that you look for scratches, dents, missing light bulbs, and so on, even if you are buying brand new. You are going to have to consider how many people are going to be using the RV on a regular basis and use this to determine how large of a recreational vehicle you are going to need to purchase, as you want to ensure that the RV is roomy enough to let everyone inside be comfortable and have the necessary equipment ready.
You should always test drive an RV before putting any money down for it, and remember that just because it may look good, this certainly does not mean that what is under the engine is worthy of the price tag. If the dealer is unwilling to let you take the vehicle for a test drive then you can really only assume that there is something they are trying to hide, something that is wrong with the vehicle.
Whether you are a camping or traveling enthusiast or just like to get away and are looking for a recreational vehicle, know that you have plenty of options. As long as you take your time and be smart with your decisions, you will find an RV that is perfectly suited to you and your needs.
Terry Bolton is an internet publisher of automotive stuff. Read his useful and popular articles about how to find cheap used cars and car parts
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