Fall 2012 betterRVing

FALL 2012

RV Maintenance Tips from Lazydays Experts

RV Show-and-Tell The Fun of Geocaching Exploring Southern Arizona Pro Packing Tips

Go outside and play all day, then get cozy ‘round the campfire.

Can you feel it yet? There’s a change in the light...a change in the air.

It’s the perfect time to enjoy RVing.

For over 35 years we’ve been making dreams come true for RVers all over the world. We are proud to say that at Lazydays we have an RV for everyone.

To find the RV that suits the way your family plays, log on to our website or stop by and pay us a visit – we’d love to show you around.

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

TAMPA | TUCSON lazydays.com

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Pursue your RV dreams in the new P leasure-Way Pursuit B P lus Motorhome Built on the Ford E350 dual rear wheel cutaway chassis, the Pursuit is easy to drive and achieves great fuel economy.

The Pursuit is unique due to many of its special features, but primarily because it is 22 feet long. This new B Plus motorhome is constructed with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety that Pleasure-Way Industries Ltd. is known for.

View our models at www.pleasureway.com or visit them at Lazydays, one of our premium dealers.

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

CONTENTS

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Two for the Road Lazydays experts Dana and Snow take the 2013 Fleetwood Excursion for a spin.

What You Need to Know About What Makes Your RV Go Keep the good times rolling with maintenance advice from Lazydays experts.

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Technically Speaking: Ask Steve RVers’ toughest questions, answered.

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33

Prepare for your next adventure with these pro packing tips.

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Great Gear

Helpful hints to enhance your RV lifestyle.

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What’s Happening at Lazydays

The Great American Teach In (RV Style)

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Home Cookin’: Awesome Pot Roast

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RV Open House

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Chatting With a Force of Nature: Zach Bonner

RV Quick Tips

Camping in the Shadows of the Past Several historic camping spots are just a short drive from Lazydays.

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Destination: Southern Arizona Explore Tucson’s fall secrets with these enchanting desert day trips.

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The Final Features

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A motorhome makes for the ultimate show-and-tell.

Geocaching Discover an exciting new way to play hide-and-seek.

RV Packing Tips From a Lazydays Expert

Lessons in RVing: Check Your Coordinates, Captain!

One couple recounts a memorable GPS fail.

Troubleshootin’ With Ernie: Fuel Filters

Partner Spotlight: Andrea Grijalva

LANCECAMPER.COM

Go Anywhere | Go Any Time | Go Now

Find Your Perfect Fit | Lazydays 6 betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

Why RV? Why not?

No hotel bills, no restaurant tabs, no taxi cabs.

You can sleep on your own sheets, play with your family, stop wherever you wish and stay as long as you want.

Oh, and your pets can go along, too!

This is your fun.

You make the rules.

Come Co me ccamp amp wit am with us!

Our campgrounds feature paved sites with full 30/50-amp hookups amidst h k id t beautiful b tif landscaping. You can relax by the pool, play indoor and outdoor games, or enjoy a visit with your friends at our restaurant and bar. If you travel with man’s best friend you’ll be pleased to know we have a fenced-in doggie park right inside our campgrounds.

Give us a call or go online to make a reservation; we can’t wait to see you!

lazydaysRVcampground.com Tucson, AZ | 800.306.4069 Tampa, FL | 800.626.7800

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Better RVers, As the season rolls into fall – and the leaves near your RV remain green or reveal a rainbow of color – it is a great time for me to step out from behind the camera, the computer and the RVs to say hello to you. Fall is always the perfect time for me to take a few moments to reflect on summer’s fun adventures and prepare for the hustle of the holiday season. The fall 2012 issue offers you a few tools on how to make the most out of the fall season, and gives you an opportunity to reflect and prepare.

This issue is chock full of good-for-your-RV information to help keep your engine and chassis in the best condition possible. Make sure you read (and then pull out and tuck into your glove box) pages 14-22. You will find helpful reminders, in the form of checklists, customized to your particular RV. Refer to these lists on your next RV service center visit to ensure your systems are in tip-top shape. Your RV is the vehicle that turns your travel dreams into realities; that’s why keeping your RV in optimal running condition is the best path to continued happy travels.

Since this issue focuses on the technical aspects of your chassis and horsepower under the hood, we brought some balance with a recipe to warm your soul. The convection microwave can be a complicated appliance, so we’ve compiled a collection of delicious recipes with step-by-step directions to help you create some amazing meals. When the fall breezes blow into your RV, entice your camping neighbors with the warm comforting aroma of a tender pot roast (page 72). And be sure to check betterRVing.com online for more convection microwave recipes.

Helping to make your RVing journey more rewarding is the target of betterRVing.com. My time is dedicated to creating the stories and information featured in betterRVing.com, and I would love your input. Send an email or stop by my office, and tell me where you are traveling, what inspires you and what you want to know more about. We aim to make your road trips better by providing the knowledge, advice and inspiration you need.

Please enjoy the fall issue of betterRVing.com as you learn about maintaining your RV. And, for those who are new to our magazine, we are glad you are here and hope you stay a while.

Happy Travels,

Ann Cosentino ann@betterRVing.com

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Advertising Director Liz Lema 866.317.4012 For advertising inquires: advertising@betterRVing.com Inquiries Subscription and customer service information: info@betterRVing.com Managing Editor Ann Cosentino ann@betterRVing.com All rights reserved © 2012 Lazydays® 6130 Lazy Days Boulevard, Seffner, FL 33584-2968 betterRVing.com is published four times per year by Lazydays. No responsibility can be accepted for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs, which must be accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with return postage.

The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Our popular Phaeton® is engineered for years of reliability. So you can arrive in time for the show. And since we’re every bit as particular about your buying and service experience, we are proud to partner with Lazydays. Visit tiffinmorhomes.com.

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TWO FOR THE ROAD

BY FRED SMITH

2013 Fleetwood Excursion 33A Floor Plan Dana Philp 25+ years RV sales experience; Black Belt in RV fun Snow Chamberlain 28+ years professional RV experience; more than 500,000 miles driven

He’s logged more than a half a million miles on the open road. She’s taught more RVers how to have a good time than she can remember.

Here’s what happened when Lazydays’ road warrior and the RV industry’s guru of fun took the 2013 Fleetwood Excursion for spin.

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EXTERIOR Dana and Snow approach the Excursion and stop to take a gander.

Dana: Fleetwood RV is a manufacturer that’s in it for the long haul. They always seem to be a little ahead of the times, and the 2013 Excursion is no exception. Beautiful lines on this coach. If you get the optional Diamond Shield clear front protective mask, like this one has, those great looking lines will last a long time.

Snow: Fleetwood RV has a road service crew that goes to most of the larger rallies around the country to perform service as needed. They really take care of their customers.

COCKPIT Snow settles into the driver's seat, puts the coach in reverse and slowly begins to back up.

Dana: Watch out — there’s a truck behind you. ®

Snow: I don’t care; it’s a Ford.

Dana: Don’t crash, please. I’ve got a long life of suffering ahead of me.

Snow: Me too. I haven’t even started on my bucket list.

Dana: So, Snow, how many miles do you think you’ve driven in your life?

Snow: Backward or forward? This Excursion is comfortable either way. The backup monitor is full-color and the one-piece, bonded windshield provides great vision. It’s all about how your body feels behind the wheel, and this coach affords you a lot of luxury.

Dana: We’ve got a lot of high-end features that you normally see on coaches at higher price points. The full tile throughout the interior looks great and is really easy to clean. The cabinetry is Classic Cognac in this model. It’s absolutely beautiful and gives the coach a residential feel the moment you walk in.

Snow: I’ve been in my share of motorhomes and this one feels like a house.

Dana: The ceilings are 84 inches high, which gives the interior an open feel.

Snow: It really handles well. If this were my coach, I don’t think I’d bring a tow car.

Dana: But you’ve got plenty of muscle in that 300 HP

engine to tow 10,000 pounds. It’s like a rocket ship.

Snow: Last time I said that I got a ticket.

Dana: Even though it’s a shorter Class A at 33 feet, we don’t have any “porpoising.” The coach doesn’t bob up and down like a porpoise as we go down the road, which can happen when you drive RVs with these short wheel bases.

Snow: We’re doing 70 miles per hour and the coach is every bit as stable as though we were going 30.

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LIVING ROOM Dana and Snow kick back in the L-shaped sofa.

Dana: Dinettes like this are hot right now. It’s got a hi-def laminate tabletop, which is easy to clean and durable. Great for two people or families with kids.

GALLERY & MASTER BEDROOM Dana: I love the new, polished Volcanic Series solidsurface countertops in the kitchen, and the full mosaic-tile backsplash features real glass. It’s an industry exclusive for Fleetwood RV.

Snow: The table isn’t the only thing that’s hi-def. I love the

Snow: The fridge is residential size and has an ice maker.

mid-ship TV where it is because you don’t have to crane your neck to watch the race.

Dana: What’s great is that the Excursion has toe kicks so you can stand closer to the cabinet. We also don’t have floor registers for the heat, where things like crayons and kids’ toys can fall in. These are side-mounted, which is safer.

I don’t know if you’ve ever smelled a furnace when it’s cooking crayons, but it ain't pretty.

®

Dana: All the TVs in the Excursion are Sony. You’d expect

nothing less from Fleetwood RV. What I love is that we have Jayne Fairley, Fleetwood’s factory representative, right here at Lazydays. If anyone interested in the coach has any questions about anything, I can call Jayne and get an answer, usually within minutes.

Snow: I should give her a call, because I had this dream the other night — Dana: Not sure she can help you with that, Snow.

But one thing that will help if you’re traveling with kids is the hide-a-loft drop-down sleeper above the cockpit.

It comes with an air mattress and drops down easily since it’s electric. The kids love it.

Snow: That is really cool.

Dana: I rest my case.

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Snow: Speaking of pretty, the bedroom has a queen-sized bed and a reversible, designer bedspread.

Dana: I’m impressed.

Snow: You didn’t think I’d know about that, did you? ■

LIFE’S ULTIMATE MERIT BADGE.

Whether on the road or at rest, an American Coach from Lazydays commands respect. Life’s achievements aren’t always easily won, and we believe that your motorcoach should be an exuberant declaration of success.

Our reputation is something we work hard to maintain. Year after year, American Coach owners rely upon our industry-leading customer support, and innovative engineering and construction.

That’s why we’re proud to have the most satisfied repeat customers in the industry.

The honor is all ours. But the glory can be yours.

More than a motorcoach manufacturer, we’re a partner in the pursuit of your passion. Call 800-854-1344 or visit AmericanCoach.com to build a customized American Coach that’s all your own.

DRIVING YOUR PASSION AMERICAN HERITAGE | AMERICAN EAGLE | AMERICAN TRADITION | AMERICAN REVOLUTION Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/americancoach

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What you need to

know RVgo}

about what makes your

BY ADAM PORTER

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D

rivers often come in two varieties — those that want to understand every single thing going on under the hood, and

those that just expect the engine to crank when they turn the key. These tendencies are often magnified when we transition to RVing. There are countless other systems and components to captivate gearheads and techies, and that many more moving parts behind the walls and beneath the floor to bewilder the “it-just-better-work” folks.

But, as every veteran RVer can tell you, machines eventually present a challenge that stumps even the most adept shadetree mechanic, and necessity generally finds a way to compel even the most technophobic among us to learn a thing or two. There will be a time when you turn the key and nothing happens. Or worse, your RV begins to sound like someone turned a wild animal loose “somewhere down there.” Then comes the confusion. The frustration. The detours. “Thanks to that !@#$% ‘cronk, clang, whirr, kerblunk,’ I guess our trip to the Grand Canyon has to wait a while.”

Next thing you know, you are standing in a service bay mimicking those sounds for your technician, hoping you got the clang, whirr and kerblunk in the proper order. Other customers look on, waiting their turn to sound like 3-year-old boys with Tonka® trucks.

Now, I’m not about to promise you that this article will turn you into an automotive savant who can glace at an RV and know when something is about to “kerblunk.” Machines are fickle things, and there is no amount of maintenance that can guarantee every trip will go smoothly. But you can learn what to do to help your RV run better and last longer. You can recognize what warning signs to look for and what they mean. You can lessen the chances of frustration and avoid the confusion.

In this issue of betterRVing.com, we give you the information you need to gain the understanding that can banish confusion.

And we will offer advice from RV maintenance pros that can help you avoid frustration, get your RV on the road more often and keep it there longer. Because, when the road is calling you, we want to make sure you can climb aboard and hit the highway with confidence.

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CHASSIS} DIESEL The best quality, comfort and durability available.

Diesel chassis are built with strength to handle the heavy loads. And they combine that power with the grace of an air suspension. There is simply no better ride than an air ride. You can also expect reduced engine noise and better handling. And, if you follow the proper maintenance intervals, the transmissions are practically bulletproof. Diesel chassis are built to run, and the more they move, the more they thrive.

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Modern Chassis: Custom Made for Your Machine Chassis have always had two basic requirements. They must be fit for the road and fit for the load. That remains true, but, where they were once engineered for other purposes and retrofitted to work with RVs, today’s RV chassis are dedicated, modular and customizable. Whether ®

manufactured by traditional industry powerhouses like Freightliner ®

or Ford , or custom-ordered by individual RV makers, today’s chassis offer exceptional strength, stability and comfort.

Quick tips for all chassis: Understand your warranty and what it covers. “Comprehensive” may not mean what you think it means. Know your warranty stipulations and limitations ahead of time so you don’t end up being that guy frantically skimming through the warranty in the repair shop, wondering what he missed.

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While you may have been sold on your RV’s amenities, it is still important to have a working understanding of the foundation on which those amenities are built. Here’s a quick reference guide for all the individual chassis systems that make your RV move. Different models will offer additional or distinctive bells and whistles, but here are the basics.

Motorized Chassis:

• Chassis batteries

• Frame

• Chassis air conditioner

• Suspension

• Radiator and cooling systems

• Motor

• Steps

• Transmission

• Tires

• Driveline

• Fuel system

• Differential

• Steering column

• Axles

• Brakes (hydraulic or air-assisted)

Quick tips for all chassis: Understand your weight limitations. Towing capacity, dry weight, gross axle weight rating, tongue weight, stability, gross vehicle weight rating, tire capability — all of these factors and more can impact how your chassis performs. Consult your manual.

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CHASSIS} GAS Designed better, stronger and custom-built for your RV. While a “gasser” spring-suspension chassis may not offer quite the weightless comfort of an air ride or the hauling capacity of a beefier diesel chassis, modern gas chassis still offer economical durability, stability and an easier ride than their predecessors.

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CHASSIS} TOWABLE Provides a solid foundation for your home-on-wheels.

The main difference between a fifth-wheel chassis and a travel-trailer chassis is weight distribution.

In a travel trailer, all of the weight distribution is behind the hitch. In a “fifthwheel,” a significant portion of the weight is centered above your tow vehicle’s rear axle. This more generous weight distribution allows for easier handling and control. Think of it as the difference between carrying a toddler who is holding on versus one who is sleeping. Now multiply that by six or eight tons.

Towable Chassis: • Frame

• Chassis air conditioner

• Suspension

• Steps

• Axles

• Tires

• Chassis batteries

• Brakes (hydraulic or air-assisted)

Quick tips for all chassis: Understand your load distribution guidelines. The weight distribution of your contents is something else to consider. A toy hauler with a full garage, despite being designed for a heavier potential load, will still tow differently than a relatively empty rear bedroom.

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CHECKLIST} RV MAINTENANCE The old RV adage says: when you combine a house and a car, you get the benefits of both … and all the chores, too. While this is true, there is one major difference.

Coaches and campers are much more than a “house on wheels.” Your RV was manufactured to move, custom-designed to face the rigors of life on the highway and routinely subjected to jounces, bounces, shimmies and shakes. And, while every seam is sealed, the move and flex

of travel can cause cracks and voids. Once moisture gets into your RV, the safety and integrity of your “house” can go downhill in a hurry. You must maintain it to this purpose, even when it is sitting still.

Whatever make and model of motorhome you own, if you want your RV to be ready to roll when you are, routine maintenance is a necessity. With that in mind, here is a handy checklist of what needs to be regularly checked and professionally maintained.

Because all RVs are unique, be sure to consult your RV manuals or a qualified RV maintenance professional for the right times to check or service each of the following. Then write these intervals in the blanks next to each line item.

For Every Motorhome

Diesel Motorhomes

Towables Checklist

___ Fan belts ___ Radiator and heater hoses

___ Roof, body and window

___ Generator oil and filter ___ Generator air filter

If you are accustomed to a passenger car or even a gas RV, your first diesel service appointment may be a bit of a shock.

Compared to a gas RV, your diesel may use double or quadruple the amount of oil (14 to 35 quarts). The filters are larger, and there are more of them. Plus, diesels generally have four batteries instead of two. But here’s the good news: While each service appointment is more expensive, diesel engines can run longer and harder without routine maintenance, so maintenance appointments are also less frequent.

___ Generator fuel filter ___ Tires (check for wear, pressure

___ Check or replace air filter gauge ___ Change engine oil and filter

___ Change A/C filter ___ Water heater

___ Replace fuel filter ___ Lubricate slack adjuster

___ Refrigerator ___ Stove and burner

___ Check water separator ___ Check Aqua-Hot® system ___ Clean and flush outside

___ Furnace ___ Check outside lights ___ Check battery

radiator coils ___ Check or replace hydraulic filters

___ Check charging systems ___ Check 110 polarity

___ Polarity and voltage ___ Exterior lights ___ Directional signals ___ House and chassis batteries ___ Air conditioning filter(s) ___ Window seals and sealant ___ Dump valve ___ Entry-step lubrication ___ House and converter charging

system

and age) ___ Water pump ___ Water heater ___ Refrigerator ___ Stove ___ Furnace ___ Clean and sanitize black and

___ Wiper blades ___ Chassis lubrication ___ Fluid levels ___ Body and room seams (check for

leaks, cracks or gaps in sealant) ___ Check fire extinguisher ___ Check satellite, antenna and

entertainment systems

bends, cracks, warps or rust) ___ Awnings ___ Locks and latch lubrication ___ Entry-step lubrication ___ Clean and lube tow coupler ___ Service jacks and controllers ___ Service brakes and axles ___ Check shackles and springs ___ Check roof air conditioning

and A/C coil

___ Inspect breakaway switch and

gray water tanks ___ Clean/fill fresh water tank ___ Slides and jacks

seams and seals ___ Slide seals ___ Trailer frame (check for

Gas Motorhomes

perform amp draw ___ Inspect water system ___ Check/fill clean water tank ___ Clean and sanitize black and

Engine service on a “gasser” will look and feel similar to maintenance on a passenger vehicle. Motorhomes use more oil than passenger vehicles, ___ and the various filters are larger; but ___ otherwise, your engine maintenance ___ should include: ___ Change oil (up to 8 quarts) ___ Replace oil filter ___ Replace fuel filter ___ Replace air filter ___ Clean and flush outside radiator coils

gray water tanks Check dump valve Check fire extinguisher Check satellite, antenna and entertainment systems

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The Popcorn Mystery

MANUALS} Learn What You Don’t Know, and Keep Your RV Running Smooth For some folks, that tall stack of RV manuals you receive with your new coach is like that set of encyclopedias we all had as kids. Sure, those books probably contain useful information, but it looks like a lot of information.

We’ll get around to reading them eventually … right? Unfortunately, too many people wait until something goes wrong to crack open their manual.

It is only then that they learn that what happened may have been preventable or, if it had been caught earlier, easily fixed. Instead, they end up feeling frustrated and confused, making funny noises for the service tech.

Now, I’m not suggesting you read those manuals cover-to-cover before you ever leave the sales lot. But, if you just toss them on a shelf and occasionally use them to prop open a door or prop up a toddler at the dinner table, you will very likely end up making the “kid-with-the-Tonka-truck” noises.

I wonder how many of you are reading this and thinking, “Glad my spouse knows that sort of stuff.” Here’s the thing — as much as we appreciate the opportunity to be seen “Knowing Stuff,” it is important that you “Know Stuff,” too.

“But that manual might as well be written in Greek. Those drawings and diagrams look like space shuttle schematics.” Hey, I get it. You might never feel comfortable enough to break down your engine on a tarp in your garage and rebuild it from scratch; but, by getting to know your manual, you will be able to understand which part goes with which system and how each system works together to transport you safely on your next RV adventure.

And, the next time you experience an issue — whether it be power loss, loose brakes, a bumpy ride or “the !#$% just won’t start!” — your manual can help you go from “something is definitely wrong here” to “that could be the problem.” Suddenly, “!#$%” becomes “aha!” Or, at the very least, you could learn enough to tell that service tech which part you believe is going “kerblunk.”

TIP: To replace a lost manual, call your manufacturer. You will need the year, make and model of your RV. If your appliances are aftermarket, you will need the year, make and model of that specific appliance.

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

While there are countless stories to illustrate what can happen when you skip reading the manual, few get the point across better — and funnier — than this one.

A rookie RV owner and his lovely bride were settling down to enjoy their first night at a campground with some buttery popcorn and a cold beverage.

He set the microwave and waited for the aroma of fresh-popped corn to fill the RV. Nothing happened. Frustrated, he opened the microwave door. There, cool and flat at the bottom of the oven, was the unpopped bag. Was it empty, some sort of placebo popcorn bag? He tried another. Ten minutes — and no popcorn — later, the man began checking and rechecking “everything.” What in the world? This thing is brand new!

So, he called service and explained that his brand new microwave was “broken.” They brought out another brand new microwave. A short time later, the oven was installed and tested.

The service tech was about to head out when, just to be sure, the RV owner asked him to pop some corn. Same result. The oven was getting power, and they could hear it “cooking,” but not a kernel popped. While the RV owner fumed over his shoulder, the tech checked the manual. There, about halfway through the trouble-shooting list, was the solution. Because of how that convection microwave heated, popcorn would not cook flat on the bottom of the oven. The manual suggested setting the unpopped bag atop a small glass bowl. Voila! The corn was a-poppin’!

Moral of the story? Not knowing this simple “fix” of something totally unrelated to the actual operation of the RV turned this guy’s maiden voyage into a frustrating and embarrassing fiasco.

Five minutes of reading his manual would have solved the problem. So, consider this — if a microwave manual can matter this much, how much more important are those that cover the systems that actually get you where you want to go?

.org s r e wn o d n

Heartland owners are proud of their RVs and enjoy the company of fellow Heartland l RV owners.

Share in the good times with others like r ea you, make new friends and create a lifetime of lasting memories together. Chapters of the Heartland Owners Club are forming all over the United States and Canada. Owners are meeting for rallies several times each year at great destinations sharing experiences, making friends and making memories.

Get started at Lazydays, a premier dealer of Heartland products.

w.h w w

ta

www.heartlandrvs.com 23

SEMINAR} “How to Fix It” With Mike Willet Master mechanic, technician and trainer Mike Willet is a living legend in the RV industry. In his “How to Fix It” maintenance seminars at Lazydays in Tampa, FL. Mike breaks down the whys and wherefores of RV maintenance, redefining “routine” as fun and informative.

Mike encourages seminar attendees to come with questions, and to listen to everyone else’s. “I get questions about everything you can think of. What someone else asks may not concern you now, but you might need that answer down the road. When you do, it sure is nice to already have it.”

Any general maintenance tips? “First, regardless of how often you use your coach, check the oil once a month. Second, inspect your coach once a month. Look at everything. Is the A/C cover lifted up? Is the antenna bent?

Is there a bulge in the top edge? A gap or crack in the seams?”

Why is that important? “Well, water for starters. Potential leaks.

Water will kill your RV. By the time you see the wall panel change color, the damage is done.”

So, don’t wait to fix it? “No way. Carry a small tube of clear silicone.

If you see a potential water leak, seal it immediately. We can make it look pretty later. Just get it sealed. You do not want water in that coach. Period.”

Gotcha. Any other must-haves for the RV toolbox? “Yes. A Volt-Ohm meter, or ‘VOM.’ This is used to test electrical current. You don’t need to buy the most expensive one, but you need to keep one in your coach. If you are unsure of how to use it, give us a call. The service number is 800.350.6728.”

Any additional advice? “The more you use a motorhome, the better it runs. Proper maintenance includes putting that RV through its paces at least once a month. Crank up the engine. Fire up the generator. Turn on the A/C. Cycle everything. And, be sure to add fuel stabilizer before you get to your storage spot. Let that stabilizer get worked through the system.”

And what is Mike’s bottom-line best advice? “Keep up with your manufacturer’s recommended service intervals. And don’t skip that monthly visual check. It does no good to keep your engine running well if you don’t keep your house alive.”

{DISCLAIMER And just one more important thing to keep in mind …

While understanding how your RV systems work is important, you have warranties for a reason. And if some specific work is not completed by a certified technician, this may void your warranty. Sure, you may be able to “fix it” on your own; but, before you try, you need to know how your efforts will affect your warranty or insurance coverage. The best choice is to visit Lazydays and have a certified RV technician service your coach or camper, diagnose any potential problems and fix them in compliance with your warranty provisions. ■

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

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TECHNICALLY SPEAKING ASK STEVE Steve Roddy – 40+ Years Experience, RVIA/RVDA Master Certified Technician

What should an RVer look for in a chassis? When it comes to RV chassis, gas or diesel is your biggest decision.

The main difference between the two is carrying capacity — not only for towing, but for cargo as well. Every RV manufacturer specifies a gross vehicle weight rating, or GVWR, which is often found near the vehicle ID plate. The GVWR is the maximum operating weight your RV can carry.

Subtract the weight of the vehicle, and the remainder is the amount of cargo you can transport, including passengers, fuel weight, towing and so on. The GVWR is usually higher for a diesel chassis than it is for a comparable gas model. In the past 15 to 20 years, gas engines have come a long way, and can carry more cargo than they used to.

But for those who seek a higher GVWR, diesel is usually the chassis of choice.

What is the difference in ride between gas and diesel chassis? On most diesel RVs, you are going to have an

air-ride suspension and air brakes, while gas chassis generally have a spring suspension and hydraulic brakes.

That’s because you generally have less weight on a gas chassis. With gas engines, you have a GVWR in the mid-20,000 pound range; with diesels, the GVWR is typically around 40,000 pounds. Independent front-wheel suspension (IFS) gives a better ride and helps keep the chassis from tilting substantially to one side if you hit a pothole or something on the road. Newer RVs have suspension air bags, which provide a smoother ride; some even have two on each side. Since the quality of ride is subjective, you should always test drive an RV before you buy it. You’ll want to compare the various chassis, so you can determine the type that suits you best.

While the chassis is important, keep in mind that most motorhome owners average 6,000 to 8,000 miles a year — meaning that more time is spent at campsites than on the road. So there are several considerations beyond the

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

chassis, such as floor plan and amenities, that will factor into your decision. Of course, the more miles you put on your RV, the more important the chassis becomes. Diesel engines can go hundreds of thousands of miles, but many owners are ready to upgrade to a newer model long before that many miles are logged. So your choice may also depend on whether you’re planning for long-term ownership or are likely to upgrade in a few years.

What about wheel cut and wheelbase for RV maneuverability and handling? The term “wheel cut” refers

to the angle the RV wheels can turn. Wheel cut affects an RV’s overall turning radius. The higher the wheel cut, the sharper it turns. The wheel cut on most RVs is usually between 45 degrees and 60 degrees. Wheelbase — the distance from the center of the steering axle to the center of the drive axle — is also important. Longer wheelbases can give you a better ride. Wheel cut and wheelbase are two features that combine to affect curb-level maneuverability.

Overhang also plays a role, especially when avoiding obstacles. Diesel chassis often have a sharper turning radius, because there’s not as much of the RV body hanging over the wheels. RVs with gas engines have a little more of the body hanging out the back, so they don’t turn as tight as diesels. While this does make a difference, consider what you are doing with your RV most of the time. If you have 20,000 miles on your coach, how many of those are highway miles, and how many are logged while maneuvering through campgrounds, parking lots and so forth? At Lazydays, we offer driving classes to help you understand wheel cut and wheelbase, and to demonstrate how gas and diesel motorhomes operate differently.

What are some of the concerns you hear about RV chassis? It’s usually a drivability issue; vibration or

handling problems. For one, it’s very subjective. What I think drives perfectly, someone else may think doesn’t

handle well. One of the biggest things about a motorhome is driver placement. The driver sits on top of the front wheels, so you feel the road more. In a car, the driver sits between the wheels, where it is a much softer ride. For those people coming out of a luxury car and spending a lot of money on a motorhome, they expect a ride the same as a luxury car. They sometimes forget it’s a chassis designed to carry 40,000 pounds. It’s not going to have a soft, luxurious ride. The challenge for RV manufacturers is to give the best ride and still carry those 40,000 pounds.

What is the best way to maintain an RV chassis? When you bring your RV in for regular service and oil changes, we also perform a chassis inspection that can prevent many problems. At Lazydays Tucson this year, we have seen several RVs arrive with serious chassis trouble — things like broken track bars and engine mounts. These are serious problems, requiring a tow to the shop. With routine maintenance and a good chassis inspection, these problems could have been identified and addressed before a breakdown on the highway. Every manufacturer has a basic maintenance schedule for RV models, which may be annually or every two years. Of course, older and highermileage chassis will need more frequent inspections.

Keep in mind that letting an RV stand for long periods of time is not good. Wheel bearings, the rear end and transmission gears don’t get lubricated, and fluids start draining down to the bottom from just sitting. So you need to move your RV every 30 days, even if it is only driving it

100 feet forward and back. Storing a motorhome can be harder on the chassis than road miles.

Regardless of mileage, we recommend that maintenance be performed at least once a year. When customers learn they don’t have to change the oil for 15,000 miles, some think it’s OK to hold off on servicing their RV until then. That is a mistake. No matter what the mileage, service should be performed annually. If you put more miles on your RV, then get it done at 15,000 miles. However, if you’re only averaging 6,000 to 8,000 miles a year, you still need service once a year. Remember that your filters are made of paper, and paper deteriorates. They need to be changed. If you haven’t logged the miles, then just change the filters, add the oil back in and you’re ready to go. You don’t have to get a complete oil change at each service.

What’s the next big thing in RV chassis? Some newer

chassis are coming out with amazing features. Diagnostics are becoming easier. Some of the latest models of RVs have a chassis that wirelessly communicates to the manufacturer when there is a problem, much like OnStar® service. The manufacturer will contact the owner and direct them to visit a recommended service center nearby, depending on the severity of the problem. That is handy for RVers, since they won’t even have to go to a GPS or computer to find the nearest repair shop.

So, how is Tucson? Great, I think. I have moved back to

Tampa. So how about those Bucs? ■

27

Geocaching a new way to play hide-&-seek

BY BENJAMIN GREENE

There is a not-so-secret society of hundreds, maybe even thousands, of people partaking in a ongoing treasure-hunting game right in your city. Working in plain sight, but usually unnoticed by most, these treasure seekers spend their free time searching for many small stashes and finding places to hide new ones, making the treasures even more prevalent than the hunters themselves. Chances are you have been close to a stash, maybe even just a few feet away, without even knowing it.

To help them in their search, these hunters rely on GPS devices and a trained eye for looking beyond the obvious. Most carry something with which to write, and some carry inexpensive toys and mementos in order to replace anything they take. They have their own lingo, and use an assortment of acronyms to keep messages short: TFTC (thanks for the cache), FTF (first to find) and TNLN (took nothing, left nothing) are just a few. Geocache enthusiasts are always on the lookout for outsiders or “muggles” — named after the non-magical beings in the Harry Potter series — who may plunder or “muggle” a treasure.

If you don’t already know what I am talking about, and you are a true “muggle,” then welcome to the world of geocaching.

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The Groundspeak Geocaching Logo is a registered trademark of Groundspeak, Inc. Used with permission. (http://www.groundspeak.com)

What Is Geocaching?

Geocaching is an outdoor activity in which participants use GPS signals to hide and find caches. Geocaches range in size from 35mm film canisters to 20-liter buckets.

These waterproof containers usually hold a logbook to track who found the cache, and many contain trade items as a sort of “treasure” for finders. These caches are hidden outside in public areas, placed somewhere that any able-bodied person could obtain them but concealed well enough that no outsiders are likely to stumble upon them. The GPS coordinates are designed to get the geocacher close to the cache’s secret location; but from there, it’s all up to the hunter’s own instincts — and maybe a few hints from the geocache website — to find the treasure.

How Did It Start?

Funnily enough, it all began with the President of the United States. Per a directive of the office of President Bill Clinton, the government stopped scrambling GPS signals, a practice known as selective availability (SA). For civilians, this meant narrowing the possible discrepancy between said location and actual location from 100 meters to fewer than 20. SA was disabled at approximately midnight Greenwich Mean Time on May 2, 2000.

Dave Ulmer was among those who took a keen interest in this development. He decided to test the new signal’s capabilities by stashing a container in the woods and giving the coordinates to others in the sci.geo.satellite-nav USENET group to see if they could find it. It quickly became a game and exponentially multiplied as seekers became hiders, attracting more seekers. Before the month ended, the activity had a website, mailing list and a new name: geocaching. The prefix “geo” means earth, and the word “cache” is defined as both a hiding place and short-access memory used by computers, bringing together three staples of the game: earth, hiding and technology.

Within months, www.geocaching.com was born to standardize the listings and offer new ways of finding caches near a particular location. The listings have multiplied several times over as new people have learned of the game and technology has made it easier for nearly anyone to enjoy. For instance, what once required looking up coordinates on a desktop computer and plugging them into a GPS receiver is now as easy as launching a smartphone app. And, as knowledge of geocaching has spread through word of mouth and news articles, the game has expanded to a much broader audience, with many newcomers joining in the adventure.

Where Do You Begin?

The best place to start is www.geocaching.com. The website answers a number of frequently asked questions and offers a few tutorial videos. Once you’ve learned the basics and created your account, searching in your local area or next travel destination will bring up many possibilities.

Using the Geocaching website or the Geocaching application for Android,™ iPhone or Windows devices, you can select a local cache to target. Your first find may be discovered on your drive to work or along another path you normally take.

Remember, geocaches are all around us, even the places we have been hundreds of times. The website and smartphone app give each geocache a difficulty rating of one to five stars, making it easy to start with something you won’t have too much trouble finding. Then, once you’ve got the hang of it, you can incorporate a series of geocaching adventures on your next RV journey.

Happy hunting! ■ ®

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

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without compromise

LISTEN.

Do you hear the roar of an engine, the churning

of tires? What about the sudden stir of wind as you open up the throttle?

YOU DON’T HEAR IT?

Well, good. When you drive an Entegra Coach, you should expect the quietest-riding, best-handling motor coach. Period.

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betterRVing.com | Fallin 2012 Sharing our commitment of unfailing customer service and unmatched quality.

ILLUSTRATION BY KELLY YOUNG

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RV Quick Tips (find more tips at betterRVing.com)

Mini Tool Kit Quickly accomplish simple RV repairs (and save time as well) by collecting basic fix-it tools in a canvas bag or small box that you keep in an easily accessible location inside your RV. You are

Border Crossing Learn the Rules for Entering Canada in Your RV

less likely to procrastinate when you can just grab the bag and do the job instead of having to head outside and dig out your main tool box from the

Planning to drive your RV across the border into Canada? There are certain entry requirements and restrictions you need to be aware of when visiting our neighbor to the north:

❑ If you're traveling with a pet, be sure to have a veterinarian’s health certificate showing the animal's breed, description and proof of rabies vaccination.

❑ You can only bring in 1.5 liters (two bottles) of wine, 8.5 liters (24 12-ounce cans or bottles) of beer or 1.14 liters (40 ounces) of liquor. If you have additional quantities of alcohol, you can unload the extra to a storage unit and retrieve it on your way out.

❑ You must declare any meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, and plant or animal products you are bringing into the country. Be aware that some items are not allowed, as they may pose a threat to Canadian agriculture or livestock.

❑ All weapons must be declared. You may be permitted to bring certain types, such as hunting rifles. Some firearms, such as handguns, are restricted; other weapons, including switchblade knives and replica firearms, are prohibited. Any weapons that are not declared will be confiscated. ❑ Be aware that radar detectors are prohibited in Canada, so leave yours at home.

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basement storage area to find the necessary tools. Your mini kit should include: screwdriver with two sizes of interchangeable Phillips and slot heads, wrench set, adjustable wrench, Allen wrench, compact flashlight, ®

duct tape, rag, WD-40, knife, scissors and disposable latex gloves. With these basic tools, you can perform the majority of small jobs in your RV.

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

the great american teach in

(rv style) I

BY DARYL MAY

still have a photo of the fire department’s visit to my kindergarten class. It was a big day for a 4-year-old. Wearing a fireman’s helmet that skimmed my shoulders, I sat in the driver’s seat of a real fire engine — and got my picture in the local paper. Introducing children to new experiences through hands-on participation with volunteers outside the school environment has a huge impact on students of all ages.

Teachers know already — hands-on learning is better than any amount of lecturing.

I also learned that teachers really appreciate someone helping in their classrooms — and that it can actually be a cinch to arrange it.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of sharing your experiences in the classroom, The Great American Teach In is Nov. 17 and is your chance to make an impact. Start with a topic you’re passionate about — like RVing. Take your RV to school for show-and-tell, and introduce your audience to the thrill of travel and exploration. Of course, rather than just demonstrating the features of your coach, you’ll want to talk about what an RV does — taking its occupants to fascinating places near and far, like national parks and historical sites.

To get started, here are some considerations, questions and answers for conducting an RV show-and-tell at schools:

39

Whom should you contact to make arrangements?

A teacher is your best friend when it comes to organizing a classroom visit. If you don’t personally know any teachers, ask around — parents with school-age children should be able to put you in touch with a teacher.

Where will you park the RV? Prior arrangements are a must so that staff can reserve parking in a suitable place. If you need to park along a street, you will need someone to direct traffic while you park the RV. ■

What age level should you target?

Children of just about any age would love to know what an RV is and does. In fact, people of all ages love RVing.

Just keep in mind that young children will need a slightly simpler approach than older students. (Start by telling the young ones what an RV is.)

Though time and effort will be involved in organizing an RV presentation, you’ll feel rewarded beyond measure when you sense the excitement and knowledge you’ll be imparting to your eager audience. After all, you’ll have done a good deed. I’ve found that teachers and kids remember and appreciate my shows (and me) far longer than I deserve.

How many students should be included?

A good plan is to conduct your show-and-tell for two classes at a time, or about 30 children, and repeat it afterward for another two classes if there’s a demand.

How should you structure your show?

I recommend doing it in two parts. Part 1 would be an in-class presentation about the RVing lifestyle. You might discuss visiting a national or state park or a historical attraction, and show a few slides to bring your talk to life.

Part 2 would then be a walk around and through your vehicle. Demonstrate some of the fun features.

What does Part 1 of the presentation involve?

Part 1 is a stand-up presentation in front of the children, who will be seated at their desks, in chairs or on the classroom carpet.

This is the time to show pictures of your destination as well as stops along the way. In addition to describing the place physically, it’s good to talk about your own experiences. Telling the class, “I saw a 12-foot alligator with my own eyes!” has more impact than simply saying, “There are large alligators in the Everglades.”

Be sure to involve the kids: “Hands up, all those who’ve been to the Everglades.” You might briefly invite one of those kids to talk about their visit.

If you’re intrigued by the

What does Part 2 of the presentation involve?

Part 2 is a walk around and through your RV. In your walk around the RV, you’ll be able to point out features that few kids have thought about. How does the RV get power? What hookups are needed? Is there an air conditioner? How do you back up such a large vehicle? Seeing a car hitched to your RV will be an eye-opener.

Walking through the RV will fascinate most children.

You may not realize what a treasure you own until you show it to a class of children, especially those who have never seen an RV up close. They’ll be curious about sleeping and cooking arrangements, and impressed with anything that moves or that you can show them how to operate. A slide-out will astound younger students, while an entertainment system and gizmos like a GPS unit will impress the older kids..

audience to the thrill of travel

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idea of sharing your experiences in the classroom, start with a topic you’re passionate about — like RVing. Take your RV to school for showand-tell, and introduce your and exploration.

Share your experience with us at storykeeper@lazydays.com

Turning a Lazy Day

Into Summer Fun.

At Forest River, we know your dreams of life on the road are about sharing adventures, discovering new places and enjoying the relaxing day with friends and family. Forest River’s full lineup gives you the opportunity to EXPLORE.

So what are you waiting for? Visit lazydays.com and get lost in a Forest today!

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Camping in the

Shadows of the Past

BY THOMAS HARDEN

Camping is a pastime that not only brings us close to nature, but also recalls earlier days when our ancestors were more nomadic, camping seasonally at sites according to the resources they required for that particular time of year. Today, we camp for recreation rather than out of necessity.

Modern campgrounds offer many conveniences — from fresh water and electrical hookups, to restroom facilities and pools, to cable T.V. connections and Wi-Fi. And they can be located just about anywhere these utilities are available.

In the past, campers would set up their temporary accommodations in places where resources such as water, firewood, fish and game were present. Remains of these early campsites have been found during archeological surveys, providing glimpses into the past.

Indeed, the Lazydays RV Campground in Tampa sits near one such site, with a couple of others located just a short drive away.

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LAKE

Thonotosassa

t

his large lake, and the surrounding area with its springs and creeks, provided a popular gathering spot for ancient visitors. Today, recreational boaters and ďŹ shermen ply its waters. A small park adjacent

to the boat ramp offers picnic facilities and parking for vehicles with trailers.

For information, call 813.635.3500. The Baker Creek Boat Ramp is located at 12000 Thonotosassa Rd., Thonotosassa, FL 33592. GPS: 28.04872986, -82.26993382

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photo courtesy of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection

HILLSBOROUGH

RIVER

State Park

j

ust down County Road 579 and north on U.S. Highway 301, you can visit the site of an early military fort dating from the Seminole Wars. Built in 1835 and originally called Fort Alabama, after the troops that were stationed there, the fort was later

abandoned and destroyed by fire. Fort Foster was built on the same site in 1836, and a reconstructed version can be experienced by visitors today.

For information on the park’s facilities and activities, visit www.floridastateparks.org/hillsboroughriver or call 813.987.6771. The park is located at 15402 U.S. 301 N., Thonotosassa, FL 33592. GPS: 28.143801, -82.224908

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FORT

De Soto Park

i

f you head west toward the Gulf Coast, you can camp in the shadows of Old Fort De Soto, which is located on Mullet Key and accessible by road. The current fort was constructed as a coastal defense and stood ready during the Spanish-American

War in the event of a Spanish invasion. Today, Fort De Soto Park is perhaps best known for its beaches, which are recognized as some of America’s ďŹ nest. â– For details, visit www.pinellascounty.org/park/05_ft_ desoto.htm or call 727.552.1862. The park is located at 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL 33715.

GPS: 27.624898, -82.7114965

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ADVENTURE

RUNS IN OUR VEINS

At Holiday Rambler ® we’re celebrating our 60th anniversary by blazing new trails. Thanks to our merger with Navistar® — a pioneering American company with vast experience engineering trucks, buses, defense vehicles, and engines — we’re bringing over 180 years of innovation and experience to our premier line of RVs. Our latest coaches bring aerodynamic designs, fuel-efficient MaxxForce ® engines, and advanced cockpit ergonomics to the recreational vehicle industry. And each one is assembled in our state-of-the-art factory in Indiana.

After 60 years in the industry, we remain as passionate as ever about creating an RV experience you’ll never forget. As always, we’ve packed our vehicles with features you’re bound to love as you explore new horizons. To start your journey, stop by Lazydays or visit us online at holidayrambler.com.

© 2012 Navistar RV LLC. All rights reserved.

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Great Spots to Discover

Tucson’s Fall Secrets E

BY MONICA SURFARO SPIGELMAN, PHOTOGRAPHY JEFF FAY

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

It’s out there for you, whatever your passion. Nature, arts and cool adventures within an hour’s drive from Lazydays Tucson.

You can rustle up western authenticity, stir your soul with nature’s grandeur or relive aviation history in a great museum. Ready to learn what’s awaiting you just over the next mountain range?

Here, then, are six passageways to explore an enchanting desert.

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White Dove of the Desert: Mission San Xavier del Bac

T

here’s full-blown mystery and beauty wrapped in the tapestry of Mission San Xavier del Bac. This stately example of the finest American mission architecture was founded by Jesuit explorer Father Eusebio Francisco Kino, who first visited in the late 1600s. He found the Tohono O’odham, formerly called Papago Indians, farming the region that was then known as “Chuk Son” after the Papago phrase for “spring at the foot of the black mountain.” In the years between 1687 and 1711, Kino — who became known as “Padre on Horseback” — opened several missions and ultimately began construction of San Xavier in the 1700s. The most notable of Padre Kino’s trail of missions dotting Mexico and Arizona, San Xavier was completed in 1797. San Xavier is considered the country’s most magnificent example of Spanish Colonial period architecture and became a National Historic Landmark in the 1960s. There is a sea of symbolism in its elaborately detailed interior chapels and rooms, with most of the statues and murals painstakingly restored.

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Mission San Xavier is still an active Catholic parish serving the same native peoples for whom it was established 200 years ago. Visitors are welcome to attend Mass or special celebrations, tour the mission buildings, visit the small museum and gift shop, light a candle or climb a nearby ridge for a panorama of the Sonora Desert. There is a brief informative movie about the mission, its parish and school in one lovely room off the main chapel. In front of the mission and in a small plaza nearby, Native Americans from the village of Wa:k (“Bac”) cook fry bread and sell traditional crafts. A seasonal farmer’s market is located nearby in a municipal building and offers gourds, native tepary beans, corn, melons and other produce, all grown on the reservation.

The mission is free and open to the public from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Call 520.294.2624, or learn more online at www.sanxaviermission.org. Located at 1950 W. San Xavier Rd., Tucson, AZ 85746.

GPS: 32.107992, -111.008423

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Here Kitty, Kitty: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

W

e’re kidding. Somewhat. Actually, it’s OK to call out to that imposing mountain lion you see nearby, as he eyes you from his expansive native enclosure. Encounters like this seem natural in the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum — a botanical garden, natural history museum and zoo rolled into one world-class desert experience on roll 21 acres just west of the Tucson Mountains.

There are two miles of trails around the museum’s acclaimed natural habitat enclosures, which house acc more than 230 animals and 1,200 plants. In this mo beautiful and engaging living desert, you can meet bea up with bighorn sheep, spot a coatimundi or peer at a tortoise as each roams its wide territory. You can take a closer look in special enclosures like the Hummingbird Aviary, where friendly docents will H tell you stories about the mother Ruby Throat seen feeding her chick, or the lively Anna darting around the enclosure, protecting his territory. Don’t miss the aquatic species at the new Warden Aquarium, which opens in January and is included with museum admission.

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

Visitors can take scheduled walking tours or a self-guided ramble, stopping at the many vista points, visiting exhibits and watching an assortment of demonstrations. One particularly dramatic demo is the Raptor Free Flight, held daily October through the middle of April. These thrilling demonstrations feature untethered birds of prey like Harris’ hawks, one of only two raptor species in the world to hunt in n family groups.

The museum also offers amazing shopping and dining experiences, with a bookstore, gift shops and several restaurants available. Happy combinations off museum fun and educational activities are continually lly refreshed for families. “Running Wild” and “Live and d (Sort of) on the Loose” demonstrations allow guests to see, touch and learn.

Special accommodations are available for visitors with disabilities, including ASL and visual interpreters. The museum is open daily, includingg all holidays; hours vary seasonally. Wheelchairs and strollers are available free (on a first-come basis), and electric wheelchairs may be rented. Worth noting: 30 SPF dispensers in restrooms and animal stamp stations in kiosks throughout the park. To learn more, call 520.883.2702 or visit www.desertmuseum.org.

Located at 2021 N. Kinney Rd., Tucson, AZ 85743.

GPS: 32.2446571, -111.1653757

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Showcase of Flight: Pima Air & Space Museum

T

he sky’s the limit for aircraft buffs at the Pima Air & Space Museum. With 80 acres of outdoor display and 100,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space, the museum is aircraft heaven and home to the largest private collection of he planes in the United States. pla This expansive venue has an international reputation for its military aircraft and specialty rep displays.

There are several hangars for World War II dis aircraft, with one dedicated to the B-17 bomber of the i Army Air Force. In other hangars you can view sleek, needle-like wonders such as the futuristic SR-71, the world’s fastest aircraft. There are only 20 SR-71s left in the world, and the second one ever made is housed at the Pima Air and Space Museum.

There are other unique exhibit areas where you’ll find authentic World War II wooden barracks and indoor displays of memorabilia such as flight suits and old training simulators.

You can use your walking shoes or take a tram tour led by knowledgeable docents, many of whom are retired military. The docents are enthusiastic storytellers; as you tour, you’ll hear tales about the 1960s Super Guppy designed to carry rockets for the space program, or JFK’s propeller Air Force One or the

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Lockheed Constellation that served as Eisenhower’s personal plane when he was a general. A good representation of Cold-War-era planes like Migs and Strategic Air Command bombers are also situated on the Pima campus.

The Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG) at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base allows tours to depart from Pima Air and Space.

There are currently some 4,000 military aircraft at this strategic center, where military aircraft are stored for future mission activation and where aircraft parts are salvaged for reuse. High security is essential on these 1.5-hour long bus tours to the “Boneyard,” and government-issued photo identification will be required. Reserve AMARG tours (additional fee) in person on a first-come basis at the museum. Call ahead for tour times and dates.

For information, call 520.574.0462 or visit www.pimaair.org. The Pima Air & Space Museum is located at 6000 E. Valencia Rd., Tucson, AZ 85756.

GPS: 32.14109, -110.865417

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Off the Beaten Path: Mount Lemmon Head north into Tucson’s Santa Catalinas and you’ll reach Mount Lemmon. While it’s just a winding, one-hour drive and 9,157 feet above the hot desert below, it feels like a world away. About halfway to the summit, the dry brown landscape transitions into lush green pines and the temperature drops dramatically.

Here you can ski in the winter and hike in the summer.

But above all, don’t forget to pick up some smoked rattlesnake at the General Store. That’s a must.

For information, call 520.576.1321 or visit www.skithelemmon.com. Ski Valley is located at 10300 Ski Run Rd., Mount Lemmon, AZ 85619.

GPS: 32.4480467, -110.7668851.

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Discover the difference!

www.Dutchmen-RV.com www.lazydays.com

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Relive Classic Movie Legends: Old Tucson

R

emember Maureen O’Hara rollicking in a haystack in the 1963 classic, “McLintock!”?

Or the scene in “Rio Bravo” where crooner Dean Martin takes down a villainous Claude Clau Akins? Perhaps the closing scene from “Gunfi “Gun ght at the O.K. Corral” with lawman Burt Lancaster and card shark Kirk Douglas is your favorite.

Lanc Movie-making legends run deep in the nooks and Mov crannies of the storied buildings at Old Tucson. cran Walk in the footsteps of screen legend John Wayne, who starred in four movies here and whose portrayals of the fearless cowboy made him the face of the West. The Duke’s love of the West was sparked in Old Tucson; so much so that he eventually became an Arizona rancher and cattleman. Reminders of both untamed frontier and movie set memories are everywhere in Old Tucson, which began life as the movie set for the 1939 western classic, “Arizona.”

But beyond its legendary movie-making status, Old Tucson is a premier southern Arizona attraction where thousands come to experience the Old West, celebrate pioneer heritage and giddy-up for a grand ole time. Now visitors can enjoy the sets while experiencing what life on the western frontier was really like with living history presentations covering

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betterRVing.com | Fall 2012

a range of themes, including stagecoach travel, life as a schoolmarm and sheriffs of the old west.

The complex fans out from Heritage Square to an entertaining array of attractions: saloon with high-kickin’ dancers, railroad depot, Native American Village, bawdy hotels, stagecoaches and corrals.

Grandparents and kids alike will enjoy the train rides, carousel, antique cars and panning for gold.

The stagecoach tour takes you to the set where the television show “High Chaparral” was filmed. Train buffs will want to head to the north end of the town to see the Reno locomotive, which has more than 100 films to its credit.

No western experience is complete without rustlin’ in’ up some grub — and Old Tucson won’t disappoint.

Enjoy fresh barbecue smoked on-site, corn dogs and real down-home cooking. Rousing entertainment will set your toes tapping, as will the lineup of signature events like Wild West Days and the Cowboy Music Festival. With photo ops at every turn, no doubt there’ll be a sequel to your picture-perfect visit!

Call 520.883.0100 or check the website for seasonal scheduling and special events: www.oldtucson.com.

Located at 201 S. Kinney Rd., Tucson, AZ 85735.

GPS: 32.2177143, -111.1302448

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It’s the Bomb: The Titan Missile Museum Located in nearby Sahuarita is a one-of-a-kind attraction and sister museum to Pima Air and Space.

This is the site of the former intercontinental ballistic missile deactivated in 1986. It became a National Historic Landmark in 1994. Visitors can descend to the underground control room, which is handicapped accessible. â– For information, call 520.625.7736 or visit www.titanmissilemuseum.org. Located at 1580 W. Duval Mine Rd., Sahuarita, AZ 85614.

GPS: 31.903128, -110.999068

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An extremely comfortable motor home at a very comfortable price.

When it comes to real comfort and value in a Class A coach, the Winnebago VistaÂŽ is hard to beat.

It features abundant storage as well as high-end amenities you might not expect at this price point, including: t MBSHF -$% 57T t BVUPNBUJD MFWFMJOH KBDLT t RVFFO CFE

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And with five floorplans to choose from —the economical new 26HE, all-new USJQMF TMJEF / TVSQSJTJOHMZ TQBDJPVT 5 GBNJMZ GSJFOEMZ # XJUI CVOL CFET BOE TVNQUVPVT ' ‰ ZPV SF TVSF UP ĕOE UIF 7JTUB UIBU GFFMT KVTU SJHIU GPS ZPV 4P XIFO ZPV SF SFBEZ UP LJDL CBDL BOE FOKPZ B HSFBU EFBM PO B HSFBU DPBDI TUPQ CZ -B[ZEBZT TFF JU POMJOF BU (P8JOOFCBHP DPN PS DBMM UP MFBSO NPSF

Š2013 Winnebago Industries, Inc.

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Check Your

Coordinates, Captain!

BY CHRISTIAN MUFFOLETTO

Christian, daughter of Lazydays sales manager Jim Lazzarino, is currently a college student who has been RVing since she was born. She has seen plenty of RVing gone right and plenty gone funny. Become a better RVer by learning a few humorous lessons, from RVers just like you.

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ery RVer remembers the first trip in a new coach. Getting acquainted with a new vehicle provides all sorts of entertaining, educational and memorable experiences.

Just ask Sam and Sheryl Matzen. When taking their new Allegro Bus out for its maiden voyage, the couple learned an important lesson about the value of carefully researching their destination.

During their RV trip through Texas, the Matzens decided to stay overnight at a KOA campground outside of Austin. Now, most of the driving world has evolved to using the ever-helpful, occasionally accurate GPS system. It eliminates the hassle of unfolding maps and tracing your projected path over and over again. Though it may not be everyone’s preference, Sam and Sheryl have had pretty good success with their faithful GPS. They had become accustomed to simply typing in a street address and being told how to get there. Simple as that, right?

Well … as long as you know the full address.

It was late at night when the Matzens began to head toward the KOA. Sam typed in the street address, and waited for the device to display clear, concise directions. Instead, he was prompted to enter the county in which the address was located.

Not realizing just how big Texas is, he simply entered a random county and hoped for the best. (Any Texans reading this just laughed and rolled their eyes.) Within a few seconds, directions popped up on the screen, and the Matzens were on their way.

After a few hours of driving, Sam and Sheryl were seeing nothing but darkness, dirt roads and tall trees. Hoping to spot a well-hidden KOA around every corner, they pressed on.

Eventually, reality insisted on asserting itself — the couple finally admitted they were nowhere near the KOA. So as he approached yet another dark dirt road, Sam stopped the RV and looked at the GPS again. To his dismay, the KOA proved to be far, far away … in a different county.

It was time to turn the RV around and head the other way.

Now, to some, this may seem like a simple task. However, Sam was driving a bus, with a car trailer attached. The complete rig was more than 70 feet long. Turning around on an unlit dirt road in the middle of Texas is no small feat. Sheryl got out of the RV and stood in various places behind the rig, gesturing and directing Sam as he maneuvered around in a cautious circle.

Sam was once again reminded that his wife is at her finest when under pressure — luckily for him!

After much finagling, stressing and checking all around for oncoming traffic, the Matzens finally got their RV and car trailer turned around and headed the right way. Adjusting the coordinates on their GPS, they forged ahead. At long last, they finally found the KOA … nestled far away from their original destination in another county. Sam laughs heartily as he tells this story, remembering the vital lesson he and Sheryl learned from their experience: Make sure you know your destination, and ALWAYS check your coordinates. ■ ®

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A big deal - we are authorized to administer not only our warranty but the warranty of our vendors too. Having this in-house will allow us to deliver quicker service times, happier dealers and more satisfied retail owners.

# 2 - QUICK ASSIST:

An industry first - we provide each coach with two hours of service time to quickly diagnose and fix issues without prior pre-authorization. This dramatically shortens the time it takes our owners to get back on the road.

# 3 - 24 HOUR FACTORY SUPPORT:

We provide access to a CrossRoads employee, 24 hours a day for timely, knowledgeable responses.

# 4 - 1 HOUR WORK AUTHORIZATIONS:

Our pledge to our dealers is to quickly and efficiently turn around authorization times within one hour of the dealer request.

# 5 - EMERGENCY PARTS LIST:

By providing our dealers a list of parts that 1: would render the coach unusable or 2: are frequently used, we can better ensure our dealers are prepared for potential issues and can get our owners back on the road without lengthy delays.

# 6 - DEALER STOCK ( OUR CLAIM, THEIR PART )

Making it easy and efficient is what NGV is all about.

Allowing our dealers to quickly diagnose using Quick Assist, then allowing them to submit a claim and use their in-house parts to fix the issue is designed to be quick and easy for everyone.

For more details on construction, features & benefits visit our website, call or check out our exclusive retailer, Lazydays Tampa and Lazydays Tucson.

crossroadsrv.com w PH 260 593-3850 64 64

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# 7 - DEDICATED SUPPLIER REPS:

For added piece of mind, CrossRoads has partnered with the industries largest supplier to provide unparalleled support by having two dedicated CrossRoads reps on staff to quickly resolve issues.

# 8 - NGV OWNERSHIP DELIVERY PROCESS:

We Care - our NGV delivery process ensures our owners are not only comfortable with their purchase but they understand how to use, maintain and fully enjoy it.

# 9 - NGV OWNERS CARE KIT:

Generated by Retail Warranty Registrations, and Owners Care Kit gets mailed out to every new CrossRoads owner. The kits include items like caulk, roof sealant, soap, wax, a tire pressure gauge and other items to help maintain a healthy coach.

# 10 - SIX MONTH OWNERSHIP SATISFACTION CERTIFICATE: Peace of Mind - Owners can bring their new purchase back to the selling dealer for a six month check-up on CrossRoads’ dime to further enhance the ownership experience.

# 11 - SHOW ROOM READY INVENTORY:

To help ensure CrossRoads product makes a GREAT first impression, all CrossRoads sales staff and the newly formed DSC will inspect dealer inventory during visits to ensure our product is SHOW ROOM ready.

# 12 - COACH-NET 24HR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE:

Each CrossRoads product comes standard with one year of Coach-Net for additional peace of mind while our customers are traveling.

©2012 CrossRoads RV

# 1 - CROSSROADS DIRECT:

THE FINAL FEATURES GREAT GEAR

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TROUBLESHOOTIN’

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WHAT'S HAPPENING

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HOME COOKIN’

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RV OPEN HOUSE

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PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Old Fashioned Fun Rally November 7-10 Page 70

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GREAT GEAR Engine and chassis maintenance are critical for optimal performance, but there’s more to the total RV experience. With some great gear, attention to interior and exterior details, and a little “loving care,” you can enjoy your next road trip without worry. Visit the Lazydays Retail Parts Store in Tampa, Fla., for a complete line of RV essentials to keep your vehicle clean, protected and looking new for years.

Lazydays 2012 RV Accessories Catalog Looking to pamper your RV or travel companions? The perfect place to start is the Lazydays RV Accessories Catalog. Find useful basics you may have missed, and must-have items you can’t live without. Discover new ideas for making your next adventure more convenient, safe and fun! $5

Eco-Light Fantastic Energy-efficient Green LongLife® LED bulbs from Ming’s Mark, Inc. output more light and use less electricity. They have a 100,000-hour life expectancy, produce very little heat and will reduce your 12-volt lighting draw dramatically. If you dry camp or are not always hooked to power, these quality lights make a big difference. $9.95 – $69.95

Platinum Protection Systems™ Car Care Kit Give your vehicle the benefits of professional detailing for the cost of just one trip to the car wash! This complete care kit includes upholstery and carpet shampoo, leather and vinyl enhancer, car wash concentrate and more for cleaning and protecting your RV. $16.99

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Lazydays Maintenance Tote Package No need to hunt down RV-care essentials; this handy collection has everything you need to keep your coach looking good and running smooth. The package contains a Lazydays logo tote, 303® Aerospace Protectant, KwikLube™ Grease Gun in a Can, NAPA® Silicone Spray, Super Shammy™, WD-40®, 3M® Headlight Lens Restoration System, Loctite® Superflex® White RTV Silicone Adhesive Sealant and a coupon for 10 percent off your next purchase from the Lazydays Retail Parts Store. $89.99 ($120 value)

HybridLight® Solar-Powered Flashlight Have you ever grabbed a flashlight, only to find the batteries were dead? Stay out of the dark with the Hybrid Light (HL) 120 solar-powered flashlight. Durable and waterproof, this lightweight flashlight provides 120 lumens of radiant power for six hours on a full charge.

It even floats! $24.95

Turn On, Tune In The sleek King Controls JACK® Digital HDTV Antenna will ensure maximum reception and clarity for your TV. This no-crank antenna provides broad, superior reception of both VHF and UHF signals and precisely locates nearby TV towers for foolproof antenna pointing.

JACK will keep you connected when you’re on the move, and provide brighter, more colorful TV-watching. $189.95

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TROUBLESHOOTIN’ WITH ERNIE Ernie Herring – 35+ Years Experience, RVIA/RVDA Master Certified Technician

fuel filters

BY FRED SMITH

A

rolling stone gathers no moss, and an RVer who rolls like Ernie knows the open road is an endless adventure that requires the mind of a champion. While deep thinking may not be Ernie’s favorite pastime, he knows when his RV is sluggish and experiencing acceleration problems (Fig. 1). In situations like this, Ernie will examine his RV’s fuel filter to see if it has any foreign bodies that could disrupt his RV’s performance.

The first thing Ernie is going to do is locate the fuel filter on his coach (Figs. 2 & 3). Not all fuel filters are identical, so Ernie recommends reading the manufacturer’s instructions and following the proper procedure for removing your RV’s fuel filter (Fig. 4). This process can be messy, so it’s a good idea to have a few rags on hand as well as a small container to catch any fluids that will be in the filter when it’s removed.

Using a strap wrench, Ernie’s going to remove his RV’s fuel filter and examine its inlet (Figs. 5 & 6). In this case, Ernie can see his filter’s inlet is covered with what appear to be small black specks (Fig. 7). Ernie knows that when an RV sits for long periods of time, condensation can accumulate on the walls of the fuel tank. That moisture can drip down into the fuel supply and turn into algae, a foreign body that can clog the fuel filter. Even a small amount of algae can disrupt the flow of fuel through the filter and cause an RV to experience acceleration difficulties.

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While rolling stones have no issues staying moss-free, a stagnant RV can gather enough algae to ruin Ernie’s vacation mojo. The solution is to replace the dirty fuel filter with a new one, then add a fuel additive to the fuel supply.

Available at just about any gas-station convenience mart or automotive store, fuel additives clean the fuel supply and rid it of foreign bodies like dirt and algae. Ernie recommends consulting a professional to determine the best fuel additive product for your particular engine. He also recommends keeping a small supply of fuel additive, a few fresh fuel filters and an engine belt on board your RV in case of emergency. In Ernie’s experience, if your coach is broken down somewhere on the road, it’s usually a lot easier to get help installing a needed RV part than it is to find the part.

Ernie is simply going to pour the additive into his fuel tank (Fig. 8), then fill the rest of his RV’s tank with fuel.

Once the fuel additive has been introduced and spreads through the tank, it should work its magic and clean the fuel supply — leaving Ernie’s RV engine ready to climb even the most challenging hill en route to his next great RV adventure.

Be sure to visit betterRVing.com to see videos of Ernie troubleshootin’ all kinds of RV-related problems. Remember to always consult your owner’s manual or a certified RV technician before attempting to work on your RV. No RV technicians were harmed during the writing of this article. ■ Watch Ernie’s video on betterRVing.com

Fig. 1: Ernie detects a sluggish RV beneath his boots.

Fig. 2: Consult your manual to locate your RV's fuel filter.

Fig. 3: Locate your RV's fuel filter.

Fig. 4: Consult the manufacturer's instructions before removing your filter.

Fig. 5: Ernie will use a strap wrench to remove his filter.

Fig. 6: Ernie removes his filter.

Fig. 7: Small, black flakes on the filter's inlet are algae.

Fig. 8: Empty the container of fuel additive into your RV's tank.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

oct nov Pleasure-Way Manufacturer Rally

Old Fashioned Fun Rally

October 26-28

November 7-10

Where: Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa 6210 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584

Where: Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa 6210 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584

The first-ever Pleasure-Way Manufacturer Rally at Lazydays promises to be full of great things.

Join fellow RVers for a closer look at the PleasureWay product and learn more about this premier Class B motorhome manufacturer. From product demonstrations and Tech Talk seminars to catered dinners complete with campfire s’mores and exciting entertainment, there will be lots of good times ahead.

Bring back memories of past Thanksgivings while celebrating everything you’re thankful for today, and have some good old-fashioned fun at the Lazydays RV Campground. Enjoy catered dinners, dancing, entertainment, contests and more.

To reserve your spot for $149 plus tax, please call 800.350.6731.

Join us for three days of pre-Thanksgiving joy at the Lazydays RV Campground for only $149, plus tax.

To make your reservation call 800.350.6731.

2012 Desert Dog RV Show

November 10-11 31st Annual Mustang, Shelby & Ford Roundup

October 27 Where: Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa 6210 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584 See classic cars as well as the latest automotive technology during this annual event, which features more than 200 Mustang, Shelby and Ford cars and trucks, with classes for all years. There is no charge to attend, unless you wish to pre-register to show your own vehicle and be eligible for awards. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to local charities.

Visit LazydaysEvents.com for details. Make a week-end of it with a stay at the Lazydays RV Campground. Call 800.350.6731 to reserve your campsite.

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Where: Lazydays RV Campground, Tucson 5151 S. Country Club Rd, Tucson, AZ 85706 Meet with towable RV representatives, explore "paired passion" displays, speak with Lazydays experts and attend informational seminars. There will also be music, food and fun activities for the kids. Take advantage of our campground deal: stay two nights and get one free. Don't miss the live dog show on Sunday!

For information and reservations, call 800.281.2399.

Lazydays’ Tour New Orleans Mardi Gras Rally of

&

February 5 - 13, 2013

Join us for the inaugural Lazydays Touring Ra Rally at Mardi Gras in New Orleans!

Spend 9 days soaking up the carnival atmosphere, opulent costumes, outrageous floats, delicious Cajun cuisine and sultry French Quarter jazz with our exclusive RVing group. And of course all venues have class A seating and admissions.

Call 800.388.9338 today to make your reservations.

The New Orleans Tour and Mardi Gras Rally costs only $3,495 for 2 people with one RV.* GRAND TOURING 800.388.9338

2013 SCHEDULE OF LAZYDAYS’ TOURS & RALLYS Tour New Orleans Mardi Gras Rally February 5 - 13, 2013

Tour Washington, DC Cherry Blossom Rally April 3 - 9, 2013

Tour Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Rally October 3 - 10, 2013

Tour Calgary Stampede Rally July 3 - 10, 2013

* Extra person: $1,795; Solo price: $2,395. Includes 8 nights RV camping with 50 amp service, 8 meals, 26 events and tours

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HOME COOKIN’

Maximo Perez, supervisor chef of Exit 10 and Catering, has over 10 years of experience cooking professionally. Visit Exit 10 in Tampa for his latest specialties.

A

convection and microwave oven combo is standard equipment in the typical RV kitchen.

If you haven’t used one before, you may wonder, “What is convection-microwave oven cooking, and where can I find convection recipes?” With a convection and microwave oven, you get the best of both worlds in a single appliance — a micro-

wave for faster cooking times, and a convection oven for browning and baking. For your convenience, we’ve gathered a collection of easy convection and microwave recipes developed by Chef Maximo Perez, a culinary whiz and valued member of the Lazydays family of experts. So get cooking with the tasty dish below, or check betterRVing.com for other RV-kitchen friendly convection recipes.

Convection Recipe: Awesome Pot Roast There’s no need to be intimidated by a big chuck of meat. The convection-microwave turns out a deliciously tender and juicy pot roast in much less time than in a conventional oven or stove top. Slow-cooking in the convection-microwave results in a flavorful entree, which produces its own gravy. Round out this beefy meal with onions, carrots and potatoes.

Ingredients 1 medium round or chuck beef roast (4 to 5 pounds) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/8 teaspoon pepper 4 potatoes, peeled and quartered 3 onions, quartered 2 carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds 3/4 cup water 2 tablespoons browning sauce, such as Kitchen Bouquet® or Gravy Master® Place beef roast in a 4-quart, microwave-safe casserole dish. Pat salt, garlic, thyme and pepper into the meat.

Add potatoes, onions and carrots around meat.

Combine water and browning sauce; pour on top of meat and vegetables. Cover and roast 20 to 22 minutes per pound on high/max (100%) setting, or until beef is fork-tender. Allow to stand 5 minutes before serving.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.■

Visit betterRVing.com for more convection recipes.

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RV OPEN HOUSE

2013 Forest River Aviator Electra

This sleek RV is primed for adventure! The Forest River Aviator is ready to go anywhere with you; and once you step inside, you won’t want to hit the road without it. The curved lines of the exterior are echoed throughout the interior, creating a fun and modern feel. Blue LED lighting and a Therma Heat electric fireplace add to the mood. But this travel trailer has more than just a pretty face — it’s also packed with convenient features and quality craftsmanship.

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RV OPEN HOUSE

2013 Winnebago Tour

From the ground up, the Winnebago Tour is a superior RV. It pairs Winnebago Industries’ ®

SuperStructure construction with the lowered®

rail Freightliner Maxum chassis, offering maximum pass-through storage and seven times the strength of a traditional raised-rail chassis.

The overall design reduces engine vibration and creates a smooth ride in this luxurious coach.

Visit Lazydays Tampa today to experience the quality and elegance of the Winnebago Tour for yourself.

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RV OPEN HOUSE

2013 Heartland Bighorn 3010RE

UltraLeather™ recliners, a 40-inch HDTV and a cozy electric fireplace are sure to make you anxiously await your next big adventure. But there’s much more than that to the Heartland Bighorn. The 10-inch I-beam frame provides a solid foundation while the Dexter® E-Z Flex® suspension system with quad shocks means an incredibly smooth ride.

The Bighorn is perfect for just about every kind of outdoor enthusiast and offbeat destination as it sports the largest pass-through storage in its class and offers an 88-degree turning radius in extendedcab, short-bed trucks.

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? r o f g in it a w u o W h at a r e y

www.keystonerv.com

There has never been a better time to enjoy the outdoors in your new Keystone toy hauler, travel trailer or fifth wheel. Lazydays offers you a full inventory of the #1 selling Keystone RVs. Everything from the amazing Raptor toy hauler to the luxurious Montana fifth wheel.

Plus easy to tow models like the Passport Ultra Lite and family friendly Sprinter travel trailer and fifth wheel.

Time’s a wasting. Visit L azydays now for a ne w Ke ystone RV and ge t your we e ke nd on.

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SCAN HERE Scan this tag with your smart phone and learn more about which Keystone RV brand will start your weekend.

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Andrea Grijalva Receptionist, Lazydays Tucson

How long have you worked at Lazydays?

I’ve been working here since we opened in September 2011. Before that, I worked in the restaurant.

What experiences in life prepared you for Lazydays? Two years ago, I worked in

a restaurant. I did everything — from busing tables to serving; I was also a hostess, and then worked my way up to assistant manager. I think it helped with my positive attitude and the way I am.

I work very hard, and I have always been dedicated to customer service.

What are the greatest challenges of working at Lazydays? The most challenging thing

is my English. I’m from Mexico, so English isn’t my first language; I’m still learning.

I understand most things, but sometimes it’s like, “What is it he is trying to say?”

What’s good is that there is always someone there to answer my question.

We are a family; we treat each other like family. We take care of each other.

What was your best customer experience?

I remember a couple that came in when I was working at the restaurant. The next day they came for breakfast, and afterward took me to Sunday services with them. I really enjoy going to services, and I spent all day with them. After that, they went back to Texas. They still call me. Sometimes they come in to take me to lunch or to church on Sunday.

What do you do as a receptionist to help customers? One of the most

common ways I help the customers is when they come in and need to find a sales consultant. Sometimes we’re busy, and the customer needs help right away; so I find someone to help them.

Is there anything about you that would surprise customers or co-workers?

With my co-workers, they’re always laughing, because I am “crazy.”

I have a lot of energy, always jumping around. Sometimes, even I have to say, “C’mon, Andrea!” But when I go back to my house, I like to cook. ■

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Chatting With a Force of Nature

Zach Bonner of the Little Red Wagon Foundation INTERVIEWED BY FRED SMITH

Chaz Rennob

S

ince founding the Little Red Wagon Foundation as a 7-year-old in 2005, Zach Bonner has shaken hands with four U.S. presidents on his way to helping raise millions of dollars to end youth homelessness. Now 15 and in high school, the young philanthropist talked with betterRVing.com about what life is like when you’re the subject of a major motion picture.

What was your reaction when you found out that a movie was going to be made about your life? My mom, sister and I were having lunch with Dr. G

[Producer Dr. Michael Guillen] when he broke the news that our story was selected to be made into a movie. We just said, “Wow, what an incredible opportunity to bring awareness to youth homelessness.” We knew we couldn’t pass it up.

What was your reaction when you found out who was playing you in the film? Chandler Canterbury is a really nice guy. When I looked at all the work

that he had done, I was really impressed. He’s made movies with Nicolas Cage (“Knowing”) and Brad Pitt (“The Curious Life of Benjamin Button”).

I couldn’t think of anyone else to be me.

Little Red Wagon

Starring Anna Gunn, Daveigh Chase and Chandler Canterbury as Zach Bonner Directed by David Anspaugh (Hoosiers, Rudy) Written by Patrick Sheane Duncan (Courage Under Fire, Mr. Holland’s Opus)

Did you ever think of playing yourself? Funny story there. They had an

Produced by Michael A. Guillen and David Kanter

open casting call to play me, and I sent in a tape of myself under the name of “Chaz Rennob.” Apparently the casting team was really impressed and excited until someone pointed out that “Chaz Rennob” is roughly Zach Bonner spelled backwards. I didn’t get the part, but we had a good laugh.

Coming soon to a theater near you!

What does your family think of the movie? We knew the film was going to

be about more than just the Little Red Wagon Foundation and would include our personal struggles as a family, but we also knew the impact the film could have. It was a big decision for all of us, but we’re really excited about it.

What aspirations do you have for the film and its message, now that it’s ready for the big screen? I really want this film to bring a lot of awareness to

youth homelessness. That’s been my attitude from the beginning. Hopefully the film will find a huge audience in theaters and educate people on this issue.

To learn more about Zach’s journey and his upcoming projects, visit: littleredwagonfoundation.com Find Zach on Facebook: Facebook.com/zacharybonner

How can someone get involved in your cause? Find a local organization

in your area that’s working to end the crisis of youth homelessness. Reach out to them and ask what you can do to help. You’ll find there are a lot of opportunities in your community to get involved.

Who will you be walking the red carpet with, and what will you be wearing?

Hopefully I’ll be wearing the nicest tux I can find. As for who I’ll be walking down the red carpet with … hopefully it’ll be with the nicest girl I know.

Can you tell us who that might be? You’ll just have to wait and find out. ■

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Visit Facebook.com/betterRVing for details

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5000-1012

YOUR RV ISN’T A CAR. DON’T INSURE IT LIKE ONE. Progressive covers your RV in ways auto policies don’t. So if you ever get in an accident and need to leave your RV at the shop for repairs, we’ll cover the cost of your hotel. Keeping family trips on the road, now that’s Progressive.

866-317-4014 /

LAZYDAYS.COM/INSURANCE

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Emergency Expense coverage is subject to policy terms. 11A00896.D01 (03/12)