RV Education 101 September RV News 2006

BUY NOW 56 pages: This is an instant download for only $12.95 ..cheaper than a college course!

Hello Again Everybody,
Can you believe summer is almost over? The kids are back in school and everything seems to have calmed down. This is the first time since the arrival of summer that we don't have any planned RV trips. We are thinking about one more weekend trip to the beach before we park the RV for a while. Just my luck, we logged almost 12,000 miles on our RV this summer, and now when gas prices drop we're parking the RV!

I would like to take a minute and welcome all of our new readers from the KOA Camper Trivia Challenge. I think you will find our monthly RV newsletter entertaining, interesting and informative. Each month we include a feature article, an RV video tip clip, play and learn crossword puzzle and interesting RV related links. Thanks for joining us.

The end of summer and the arrival of fall finds us busy as usual here at RV Education 101. I am working on a new DVD titled RV Campground Basics, a book publisher contacted me about writing another book, and we're working out the final details with our new sponsor, Miracle Truss Steel Buildings : www.miracletruss.com

We wanted a building to store our new motorhome in, to use as an office and to use for filming new DVD titles and video clips. We decided on Miracle Truss because of their long history in pre-engineered steel buildings, the price point and the fact that the owner can construct the building themselves saving on contractor and skilled labor costs. It's the perfect solution for protecting your investment. We will be filming the construction process from start to finish and will include the final video clip in a future newsletter.

Myself, Dawn and the boys tore down our old structure on the back of our property to make room for the new Miracle Truss building. This is what it looked like after we took the roofing and the sides off. Now it is completely gone. A lot of work!

Preventive Maintenance is maintenance you can perform on your RV before a problem exists. These checks are designed to prevent or identify potential problems that could lead to mechanical breakdown, malfunction or failure of a component or system on your RV. Preventive maintenance consists of cleaning, inspecting, lubricating, adjusting and servicing your RV.

Scheduled Maintenance or routine maintenance is performed in intervals normally based on time, mileage or hours. Scheduled maintenance is designed to keep your RV in top operating condition and prevent untimely breakdowns and repairs. It is absolutely essential that you read your owner’s manual and warranty information in regards to who is responsible for what when it comes to scheduled maintenance. Scheduled maintenance that is required by the manufacturer and not performed can void your warranty.

Emergency Maintenance – Maintenance and / or repairs required when you least expect it due to component, system or mechanical failure.

The lack of preventive maintenance and / or scheduled maintenance will eventually result in emergency maintenance. If you don’t check the air pressure in your tires (preventive maintenance) the under-inflated tire over heats and prematurely fails resulting in emergency maintenance. An RV is larger and heavier than your automobile and its not just the chassis you need to be concerned about, it’s your entire house sitting on top of the chassis. The good news is the average RV owner can perform the required RV care and maintenance and prevent untimely break downs and costly repairs (emergency maintenance).

Start your preventive maintenance program with these checks and over time add some of your own checks and without even realizing it you will be identifying and preventing potential problems before they exist. If you don’t feel comfortable performing your own maintenance find a reputable RV repair facility to do it for you.

RV Chassis Checklist
Always check your owner’s manual for routine and scheduled maintenance intervals. Service your vehicle as recommended by the manufacturer

Check all fluid levels: Check the engine oil, transmission, power steering, brakes and windshield washer fluid. Adjust levels as required. Change fluid and filters In Accordance With (IAW) your vehicle owner’s manual recommended intervals. When checking the transmission fluid consult your owner’s manual for proper instructions. A low fluid level indicates a leak and must be investigated further. If the transmission fluid has a burnt smell it needs to be replaced. Follow your owner’s manual for the proper types of fluids to use.

Check the air filter: A clean air filter helps your engine perform better and improves fuel economy. Replace the air filter IAW scheduled maintenance intervals, or when you see it is dirty.

Check for any leaks: Look under the RV and or the tow vehicle for any indications of leaks. Locate the source of the leak and have it repaired. Transmission fluid leaks contacting hot areas like exhaust system components contribute to vehicle fires.

Chassis Lubrication: Have the chassis lubricated IAW manufacturers recommended intervals

Check radiator coolant: Check the level, condition & concentration of anti-freeze. Antifreeze not only protects the engine in cold temperatures, it helps the engine run cooler in hot temperatures. Caution: NEVER remove a radiator cap when the engine is hot! For best results coolant should be flushed and replaced every couple of years. Do not drain or flush coolant directly on the ground.

Check radiator hoses & clamps: Look for worn, cracked, brittle or soft spots in the hoses. Replace as required.

Check heater hoses & clamps: Look for worn, cracked, or soft spots in the hoses. Replace as required.

Check all belts: Look for signs of wear and for any cracks in the belts. Check the belts for proper tension. It's a good idea to take spare belts with you on your trip.

Check all lights: Check all lights for proper operation prior to using your RV.

Check wiper blades: Check your wiper blades for wear and / or poor operation. It’s too late once it starts raining

Check the starting battery: Check the RV or tow vehicle starting battery state of charge, water level, cables and connections. If you're not familiar with working around lead acid batteries have them checked at a qualified service center.

Check the condition of your tires: Look for uneven wear, cuts, poor tread depth and check for dry rot on the tire sidewalls. Check all tires for proper tire inflation with a quality tire inflation pressure gauge. Check the tire pressure before traveling each day and always check the tire pressure when the tires are cold, before traveling more than one mile. Adjust inflation pressure to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Start the engine and allow it to warm up: Check all gauges for proper operation. Monitor your gauges while driving. If a gauge reads out of the normal range pull over as soon as it is safe and call for assistance.

Check the dash air for proper operation: Whether you're pulling a pop up a travel trailer or driving a motor home try to avoid using the dash air when the engine is under a strain, such as on an upgrade.

Check your emergency kit: At a minimum it should include a flashlight, extra batteries, jumper cables, first aid kit, basic hand tools, and warning devices.

In addition to this if you have a pop up or travel trailer the wheel bearings and brakes should be inspected at least once annually. Inspect any canvas for dry rot and tears; inspect all hitch work and the coupler for damage. Inspect the breakaway switch and pigtail for proper operation.

It's getting close to that time of year, when you need to start thinking about winterizing and storing your RV for the winter. Our RV Winterizing and Storing DVD with Printed Checklist instructs you on how easy it is to properly prepare and protect your RV for winter storage.

New Monthly Feature RV Education Crossword Puzzle
As an added bonus to our newsletter each month, we will feature another fun way to learn about your RV by a Crossword Puzzle. This month’s play and learn crossword puzzle is on your RV's LP gas system. Have fun, play and learn.

Check out our new Bargain Room for great deals and big savings. We packaged several different VHS & DVD products together and discounted the price for you. Save up to 48% on some of these package deals!

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Marks RV Video Tip of the Month

Some of our monthly RV Video Tips are designed to provide basic RV information for new RVers and some of the future RV Video Tips will cover more advanced topics. If you have any ideas for future topics you can email me at Mark@rveducation101.com

This months RV video tip is: MaxxFan Installation

Low Bandwidth Version.... http://rveducation101.com/videostream/?clip=MaxxFanInstalldialup

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Consumer feedback about RV Education 101 products
Hi Mark and Dawn: Just a quick note to say "Thank You" for putting together such a great set of tools for us the "newbie" RV owners. Also, Dawn, another thank you for the good follow-up service. I am recommending your website and DVDs to all my friends! My wife and I have just completed your DVD set for the Class A Motorhome. I think every new (and Prospective) RV owner should get a set. The "winterizing and storage" DVD is worth the cost of the set by itself! Even if I decide to have my local dealer do it, I can rest assured that I can check the work with confidence. The "towing behind a motorhome" DVD cleared up a lot of points for my wife and I too.Your checklists have really been a "godsend". I am a pilot and checklists are my life. yours are complete and seem to be in the best logical sequence.So to sum up this long-winded spiel, "I am a very happy camper"! Thank you both for great products and service.....Dave Leonard (2003 Newmar Scottsdale)

RV Training Videos/DVDs

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Dump Station Headaches
A problem I have been confronted with on more than one occasion was the need to empty our black and gray water holding tanks when there is no dump station available or the dump station is too far away to access. A good example of this is when our RV is parked behind our house and we use it as a guest house for friends or family who are visiting. The sewer clean-out for our domestic waste water system would be a convenient place to empty the holding tanks, but there is no way to position the motorhome close enough to use it. Read News from Camping World by Mark Polk ...Dump Station Headaches

What does an RV Chassis builder and UFO's have in common?
If you're referring to the new Workhorse Custom Chassis they have a lot in common. UFO stands for Universal Fuel Option, meaning you the RV buyer has the choice of a diesel or gasoline engine with the same chassis; it also stands for Universal Footprint Option, meaning Manufacturers can build identical motor homes on either a gas- or diesel-powered frame; and it means Universal Floorplan Option, meaning manufacturers can build upon a completely flat floor from front to back, opening up a more creative mix of gas-, diesel- and towable-based floorplan designs.
I probably didn't do a very good job of explaining this new UFO so read the entire article here: New Workhorse chassis promises to change the chassis game

RV Extreme Magazine
There's a new RV magazine coming out that was designed specifically for today's RVer. This is what the publisher had to say about the new RV Extreme Magazine, "Today's RV buyer is busy, active and affluent, with media and technology savvy," stated Mike Klinger. "They work hard and make the absolute most of their leisure time. We are looking forward to delivering the style of magazine that appeals to this new generation as they embrace RVs as a key part of their families' sports, leisure, hobbies, and travel."
Read a press release about RV Extreme : RV Xtreme Launches New Generation RV Lifestyle Monthly Magazine

Fleetwood Unveils the Luxurious 2007 American Coach Lineup
New Exterior Graphics, Interior Decors and Floor Plan Highlights on the American Heritage, Eagle and Tradition Brands.
If you're into luxury coaches take a look at what 2007 will have to offer.

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Happy Camper Half Price Camping Club
Join us at our new fun, FREE blog site - designed to give the RV community a place to share stories and pictures of their trips.Help us fill the site with wonderful stories about RVing - YOUR trips, YOUR words, and YOUR pictures. The site is syndicated for publication on radio, in magazines, and online - so you may even get your stories published!

Come join in on the fun...RV Education 101 did..take a look http://www.rvscrapbook.com

Start your half-price discount camping privileges today:Not already a member? Join 1/2 price camping today at
http://www.camphalfprice.com/index.php?ref=15

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by Peggi McDonald, Author of RV Living in the 21st Century
RV TIP: ERS (EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE) After our tow last week we heard from several people who had less than perfect ERS Calls. But it usually came down to the fact that they had the wrong ERS coverage. MAKE SURE YOUR POLICY COVERS BOTH RV’S, HAS UNLIMITED DISTANCE TO REPAIRS AND PROVIDES TWO TOW TRUCKS IF REQUIRED. You also want a SIGN AND DRIVE POLICY - preferably one that covers a minimum of TWO MOTORIZED UNITS AND ONE TOWABLE. Both member of an RV COUPLE SHOULD BE INCLUDED ON THE POLICY. If Tech service is included that is an added plus. Check with various RV Clubs and RV Service Centres to find the right one.

About RV LIVING IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Peggi has taken the best of her internationally-acclaimed first book and has revamped and updated it to reflect the changing technology and rules in post-9/11 North America. This book is for the new or experienced RVer. There are so many tips from “how to” subjects as well as practical advice on "what to do" when you have medical problems on the road, and how to choose an emergency roadside service. The security tips for your house while you are away and health & safety tips are just a couple of subjects out of many that are invaluable and give you peace of mind! There is so much information we couldn't possibly list it all. RV Education 101 highly recommends this book: RV Living in the 21st Century

Also, get lots of great tips from Peggi's instant download e-book RV Packing Tips, E-book:

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Type A Motorhome with a Side Garage
Not to be outdone, a German company recently came out with a slide-in garage located between the wheels. Take a look for yourself.
German company produces Type A with slide-in garage

This isn't your Parents Volvo
Volvo's have always been known to be safe and reliable vehicles, so why not use them for an RV Chassis? That was the Renegade Custom Motorhome's thoughts exactly, built by Kibbe LLC. With a 56,000 pound Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and a 465-HP front-diesel engine why not! Check out the Renegade Custom Motorhome line

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RV Propane Systems
by Les Doll...a working certified RV technician & author of Dummys Guide to Buying a Pre-loved RV
Starting the Flow by Les Doll: When your RV has been stored for a while the propane gas system may have a certain amount of air in the lines. It is a good idea when taking your RV out of storage to first turn on the gas bottle valve and then light one of the stovetop burners. This does two things: it purges the air from most of the system and it establishes a visual check that gas is present and flowing smoothly. Once the stove burner lights and the flame is steady, then light the other appliances. Do this at least a week or two before your planned vacation. This will allow you time to deal with any service or repairs needed before you head out on your trip.

How to inspect and evaluate a used motorhome the "PAINLESS" way
This instant download e-guide was written by Les Doll, a working Certified RV technician, with years of RV construction and maintenance experience. In this guide you will find many little-known secrets and methods used by professional buyers to evaluate a used RV. This one of a kind electronic guide is your step-by-step road map to the selection of a trouble free used RV.

BUY NOW $14.95

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Hot! RV DVD Value Packs Hot!

We just made it easier for you to learn about YOUR RV! We took our individual Travel Trailer and Motorhome DVD titles and put them in sets with other titles from our library that apply. There are three value packs to choose from and each value pack includes four RV training DVD's, which equates to almost three hours of one-on-one RV instruction. Not only does this eliminate the guess work as to which DVDs should go together, but you also SAVE a significant amount of money with the value set discount. After watching this complete RV DVD value set by RV expert Mark Polk, you will master your own RV experiences. Another great thing is this only counts as one item, so you only pay $4.95 for S/H!

The 3 value sets currently available are: Class A Motorhome, Class C Motorhome & Travel Trailer/5th Wheel. Each set includes 4 DVDs. Get your RV DVD value set today! RV Training Videos/DVDs

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Motorhome and generator service
Funroads, your one-stop information shop for RV service, maintenance and repair. Find motorhome service locations, RV appliance service or shop for Onan parts and manuals.

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Other Popular Products at RV Education 101

Check out RV Education 101 Bargains!

Buying a Recreational Vehicle DVD

Campground Cooking

Campground Cooking is also sold as an e-book $12.95 Buy Now, Read Instantly

Camp Hosting USA--Your Guide to State Park Volunteering NEW!

RV Notebook Software

Good Governor 3 in 1 Digital Voltmeter

Canine Companion Emergency Kit

Information packed, RV Education 101 instant download RV E-Books

Live Your Road Trip Dream was one of three finalists and won the Benjamin Franklin Awards - Book of the Year for Excellence and Innovation in Marketing.

What?.....You would rather watch a video than read a book? Well, you're in luck! We have videos covering all of the information you will get from the e-books at> http://www.rveducation101.com/trainingvideos.htm?siteID=0

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Health Tip: STROKE: Remember The 1st Three Letters...S.T.R! A newsletter reader sent this to us and encouraged us to post it and spread the word. RV Education 101 thinks this is worthwhile to post. If everyone can remember something this simple, some lives could possibly be saved.

U.S. Insurance Regulatory Agencies Click here to view simple steps to help alleviate your insurance-related problems. Too often, consumers feel frustrated when faced with a complicated insurance problem.

RV Newsletter Archives

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The RV Book by Mark J. Polk NEW in 2006!

The RV Book is your personal guide to understanding and enjoying your RV. "RV Expert" Mark Polk turns complex into easy, making your entire experiences safe, fun & stress free. RV's give us the freedom to go wherever we want, whenever we want. But, nothing will ruin a trip or a vacation quicker than not understanding how to properly use and maintain your RV.

Mark Polk, the author of The RV Book said "Buying an RV is a major investment and it can be overwhelming when just starting out. In the book I tried to touch on all aspects of RV ownership; from selecting and buying the right RV to setting it up at your favorite campground. What type of RV is right for you? How do you tow or drive an RV? How do you safely use an RV? How do you take care of your new RV? I have researched and gathered all of this information, into one place, to simplify the entire process of RV ownership. Whether you own an RV now, or you are getting ready to purchase one in the future, I know that by reading The RV Book you will feel more comfortable about using an RV."

For Pop-Ups, Travel Trailers, Motorhomes and everything in between. After 20 years of fulltime RVing, I still discovered new information while reading The RV Book. Mark's book is so well written and informative... he patiently explains each basic necessity that every RVer should be aware of to assure safe operation of their RV. -Peggi McDonald, author of RV Living in the 21st Century

Price $19.95 Buy Now!

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Rest Areas and Welcome Centers by William C. Herow

This is a very popular title and now it has been completely updated and revised! Quickly and easily locate rest areas, welcome centers, roadside turnouts, and scenic vistas along America's Interstate highways. Find out where these areas are and the facilities available such as restrooms, phones, picnic tables, vending machines, RV dump stations, and designated pet walk areas.

Rest Areas & Welcome Centers also includes Cracker Barrel locations and discount stores like Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, K-Mart, and Target. Easily find travel centers like AmBest Truck Stops, Flying J Travel Plazas, Love's, Petro, Pilot, and TA Travel Centers. These places welcome RVers with services such as propane, diesel fuel, restaurants, and dump stations. Some even offer free overnight parking!

Also included is state tourism contact information, a convenient list of toll-free numbers for hotels and motels across America, and an RV dump station locator. Rest Areas & Welcome Centers is a valuable resource for anyone that travels America's Interstate highways. 240 pages, a must have book for every RVer.

Select this link to view a sample chapter (Adobe Reader PDF, 184KB)

$12.95 BUY NOW!

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General and Unsubscribe Info

About us:

Our goal with this monthly newsletter is to provide you with helpful information to make all of your RV experiences more enjoyable. I left my position as an RV Sales and F&I manager in 2000 to start my own company, RV Education 101. We produce educational videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV. The reason I left my job was due to my concern about the lack of educational and safety awareness material available to the RV consumer, in other words, you. We are a small company. My wife Dawn left her position in RV sales to help start the company and is our Sales and Marketing Director. We currently have a 35-foot Class A motor home. We have two boys, Tyler 9 and Josh 15, both avid RVers and two dogs, Gracie and Buck. Gracie is the good one. If you would like to learn more about us and RV Education 101 feel free to visit our website> www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101 Newsletter © Copyright 2004, 2005, 2006 Mark J. Polk, except where indicated otherwise. All rights reserved worldwide. Reprint only with permission from copyright holder(s). All trademarks are property of their respective owners. All contents provided as is. Advertisers are solely responsible for ad content.

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RV Education 101 Newsletter is an opt-in ezine available by subscription only. We neither use nor endorse the use of spam. Your email address will ONLY be used to distribute this newsletter and will NEVER be sold or given to any other entity!!

Happy Camping,

Mark & Dawn

www.rveducation101.com

RV Education 101
3969 Stedman Cedar Creek Road
Fayetteville, NC 28312
910-484-7615