Summer 2012 betterRVing

SUMMER 2012

THE TOWABLES ISSUE

Your Toy Box on Wheels DIY Teardop Trailer On the Road Fun Maintain Your Cool Daytripping in Safety Harbor

connected to nature

connected to life

connected to family

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

get connected c cted Sometimes you have haa to get away a to get close. Close to family, ffamily l close l to nat nature, close to your passions. passions The perfect way to get away is in an RV from Lazydays.

Our selection ranges from the innovative, so-easy-to-tow teardrop trailer to the most luxurious, residential-styled, diesel-powered Class A. For over 35 years we’ve been making dreams come true for families of all sizes and lifestyles. We are proud to say that at Lazydays we have an RV for everyone.

Log on to our website and start planning your family get-away now.

TAMPA | TUCSON lazydays.com

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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-efÄcient 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. And we can’t wait to show you the exciting RVs rolling off our line for 2013. To start your journey, visit holidayrambler.com

© 2012 Monaco RV LLC. All rights reserved.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

CONTENTS

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Two for the Road Lazydays’ dynamic duo takes the 2012 Thor Motor Coach Four Winds for a spin.

Work + Play. Ready to Go. Ready to Tow. Find out why Forest River’s Work and Play toy hauler is made for outdoor adventures.

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And Kylee Makes Three A young family embarks on an RV journey as they prepare to make a new home in the Old Pueblo.

Tommy the Teardrop: From Dream to Reality

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Daryl May shares the travails and triumph of building his own teardrop travel trailer.

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Kyle’s Crazy Desert Misadventure A challenging predicament reveals the kindness and camaraderie of the RVing community.

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Little Guy Means Big Fun

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Give Me 5: Classic Games for On-the-Road Fun

The Final Features

Discover five great ways to keep your crew entertained during the journey.

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Lessons in RVing: Always Check for Operator Errors

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Great Gear

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What’s Happening at Lazydays

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Home Cookin’: Latin Lasagna

Bill Whetstone visits this fascinating attraction en route to work camping at Yellowstone.

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RV Open House

Barney’s Tips for Safe RV Driving

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Tech Talk With Mike Willett Learn how to perform basic air conditioner maintenance and ensure proper airflow.

Quick Tips Get your RV ready for summer travels with this handy pre-trip checklist.

RV Destination: Canyon de Chelly, Arizona

Lazydays’ senior RV driving instructor shares advice on handling low clearances.

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Looking for Mobile Apps?

There’s a Class for That A sampling of the great resources featured in Lazydays’ weekly “Apps” class.

Get the inside scoop on this tow-friendly line of teardrop RVs.

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Destination: Safety Harbor, Florida Experience the diverse delights of daytripping in the “secret jewel of Tampa Bay.”

Troubleshootin’ With Ernie: Fixin’ Jacks

Partner Spotlight: Jeff Oliverio Technically Speaking: Ask Steve

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betterRVing.com | Summer 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 cam amp wit 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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JOHN’S LETTER

The Joys of Summer The summer months are always magical at Lazydays. It’s a time when the enthusiastic child in all of us comes to life through the joy of RVing. Each summer, RVers of all ages visit our home to rejuvenate their passion for adventure as they get set to create lifelong memories with their loved ones. Seeing the excitement on the faces of carefree kids as they skip around the dealership in search of the perfect RV, with Mom and Dad chasing behind, reminds me of why the RV lifestyle is so wonderful.

Summer is a season to enjoy the RV lifestyle by doing many of the things that take us back to a time when every day held the promise of a new adventure. It is a time for each of us to make good on the promise to spend more energy focusing on what’s really important in life. It’s a time to pursue our passions with family and friends.

Whatever your passion is – fishing, hiking, exploring, or just hanging out by the campfire, an RV is a great way to get you there. Whether your dream RV is a luxury diesel motorhome or a pop-up camper, you can count on us to help you find the perfect RV for your budget and your lifestyle. We take great pride in helping our customers fulfill their dreams and we promise to take great care of you.

In this issue of betterRVing.com, you’ll discover a host of great stories about how passionate RVers like you spend their summer. You’ll also find useful tips on how to keep your RV in shape during the sweltering heat. As always, we’ll introduce the latest RV products created by the finest manufacturers in the RV industry. When you’ve finished reading this issue please pass it along to a friend. And don’t forget to log onto betterRVing.com where you’ll find even more great stories and multimedia content about getting the most from the RV lifestyle.

No matter where your 2012 summer odyssey takes you, the Lazydays family wishes safe travel for you and your loved ones. If you happen by one of our homes in either Tampa, Florida or Tucson, Arizona looking to beat the heat, rest easy knowing that we have more RVIA/RVDA certified and master certified RV technicians than any other RV dealership in the world. Not only can we help get your RV back on the road where it belongs, but our in-house air conditioning never fails.

Stay Cool … and enjoy the summer (and the issue).

John Horton Lazydays, Chief Executive Officer

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

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.

.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 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

rt a

www.heartlandrvs.com 9

TWO FOR THE ROAD

BY FRED SMITH

2012 Thor Motor Coach Four Winds Class C 23U Floor Plan Dana Philp 28+ years RV sales experience, black belt in RV fun Barney Alexander Senior RV driving instructor, more than 44,000 students, soon to be retired

He’s taught more than 44,000 RVers how to drive a motorhome. She’s taught at least as many RVers how to have a good time. Here’s what happened when Lazydays’ senior driving instructor and the RV industry’s guru of fun took the 2012 Thor Motor Coach Four Winds for a spin.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

EXTERIOR Dana opens the Four Winds door for Barney and bows as she graciously shows him the way, like a chivalrous matador.

Dana: I’d make an “age before beauty” joke, but since this is your last month on the job I’ll go easy on you, Barney.

Barney: I appreciate that. My first coach was a Class C about this size. Most fun I ever had in an RV. Dana: I’ll bet it didn't have an exterior protection like this coach.

The slick fiberglass with gel and clear coat protects the paint and exterior so that both will hold up and look beautiful for a long time.

Barney: I also love the exterior storage compartment. It’s huge

and has spaces that act as coolers when you add ice to them. The awning runs the length of the coach and the entry is nice and wide.

Dana: You’ll need that.

Barney: Hey, I thought you were gonna be nice.

Dana: Couldn’t help myself.

INTERIOR Barney and Dana climb aboard and stand in the spacious interior admiring the surroundings.

Barney: The Four Winds is perfect for a family. Mom and Dad

have the full-size bed and the kids can sleep in the overhead bunk.

You’ve got everything you need for fun in this coach.

Dana: This is what we call a high-end, entry-level Class C. The features are high-end and the price point is entry level. The cabinet doors are solid wood. We’ve got a linoleum floor, which is easy to clean, especially when you’re coming off the beach and sand. We’ve also got a convection microwave oven with "chill grills" in the air conditioning vent; this cools the immediate area in front of the stove if it gets extra-hot there.

Barney: The bathroom has a porcelain toilet and a glass shower

door like you might find on a Class A. Dana: Ready to take it for a spin?

Barney: Let’s get to it.

COCKPIT Barney sits behind the wheel and Dana readies herself in the passenger seat. With a turn of the key, the Four Winds’ engine roars to life.

Barney: With a Ford® V10 engine in a coach this size, we should get great gas mileage.

Dana: The seats are comfortable and we’ve got a weather band on our radio. That’s something you see on higher-end Class A models.

Barney: It comes in handy when inclement weather is in the

area and you have to alter your plans. It’s always better to be at a campground wishing you were on the road than to be on the road wishing you were in a campground.

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Barney puts the coach in gear and pulls away. After a few minutes, the Four Winds is on the highway cruising at 65 mph.

Barney: This coach handles beautifully. People like driving Class

Cs because they’re in their comfort zone. It feels like you’re driving a pickup truck or an SUV. Dana: Thor is a major player in the RV industry. They offer the “Shield of Protection” on all their coaches, which is a Gold Star Inspection before the coach ships from their factory. Each coach also comes with Concierge Connection, a 24/7 customer hotline and “rapid response” on parts.

Barney: I’d recommend the powered, heated mirror package. A

lot of people think heated mirrors are only for dealing with frost up North, but they will evaporate moisture in the rain. When you’re backing up, it’s always a good idea to lower your big mirrors so you can see your back tires. If you have the powered mirrors package, it’s easy to do.

Dana: So how are you going to spend retirement?

Barney: I’m going wherever it takes me.

Dana: What about your wife?

Barney: She’s already retired and hasn’t stopped smiling.

Dana: Not for long. Once you join her, she’ll realize that everything is double the price and half the fun.

Barney chuckles.

Dana: We’ll miss ya', Barney.

Barney: I won’t be far away. You can always find me at betterRVing.com.

The coach rides off into the setting sun. ■

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

Dana toasts Barney on his retirement.

He taught over 44,000 RVers how to safely operate their motorhome.

LiƩle Guy is proud to announce its newest partner, and western Florida’s exclusive LiƩle Guy dealer, Lazydays ● So light any car can tow ● Fun, fuel efficient, and cost effec ve ● Queen and king size beds ● Sinks, stoves, fridges, A/C, heat, TV, roof racks and more! The possibili es are endless!! ● Over a dozen models to choose from ● Made in an Amish factory with high quality materials

As seen on

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Fun, fuel efficient, and cost effec ve…..What more could you want!

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Make the journey worth it.

The road that leads to your memories is just a little smoother when you have the comfortable luxury and impressive engineering of the Phaeton速.

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is a proud betterRVing.comLazydays | Summer 2012dealer and partner of Tiffin Motorhomes. Visit lazydays.com to learn more.

A

TOWA B L E S s the number of paved roads and traveler services expanded in the early

20th century, legions of campers followed suit, eager to use their automobiles to bring them to new, exciting destinations. Demand for trailer campers increased steadily for decades, but it wasn’t until the 50s and 60s that the level of conveniences and sizes started to increase dramatically. Today, manufacturers build towable RVs in an assortment of shapes, lengths and floor plans to meet virtually every need — from utilitarian teardrops, popups and truck campers to accommodating travel trailers, fifth wheels and destination models.

The next few pages offer tips and tricks, reader stories and insider interviews centered around the towable lifestyle.

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work & play.

BY KATHY LUPA

f

rom the beginning, Forest River founder Pete Liegl had a vision to create a company

dedicated to helping people enjoy the great outdoors by building a better recreational vehicle. Over the years, Forest River has been doing just that. About 10 years ago, Forest River started making the Work and Play. This allowed even more RVers to bring

along their toys – ATVs, snowmobiles, golf carts and more – and enjoy the great outdoors along with the comforts of home. Today, Forest River’s Work and Play remains a prominent presence in the sports utility towables niche and continues to attract new fans.

Forest River Work and Play 19UFB TYPE: Travel trailer toy hauler MAJOR DISTINCTION: A spacious half-ton towable featuring an L-shaped kitchen with a 3-burner stove, convection microwave and more.

CARGO SPACE: 13' 1" CARGO CAPACITY: 3,656 lb. HITCH WEIGHT: 1,032 lbs. EXTERIOR LENGTH: 24' 2" EXTERIOR HEIGHT: 10' 10" FRESH WATER CAPACITY: 80 gal. NUMBER OF SLIDES: 0 SLEEPING CAPACITY: 6 Forest River Rockwood Freedom 282TXR TYPE: Pop-up toy hauler MAJOR DISTINCTION: Compact towable that expands, and features an outdoor RV-Que gas grill. CARGO SPACE: 96" x 84" front storage deck with expanded metal decking CARGO CAPACITY: 2,317 lbs. HITCH WEIGHT: 219 lbs. EXTERIOR LENGTH (CLOSED): 26'

EXTERIOR HEIGHT (CLOSED): 5' 2.5" FRESH WATER CAPACITY: 26 gal. NUMBER OF SLIDES: 1 SLEEPING CAPACITY: 6 Forest River XLR Viper 305V12 TYPE: Fifth Wheel Toy Hauler MAJOR DISTINCTION: Aerodynamic V-front profile design for easier towing, and includes diamond plate tread-guard in cargo area. CARGO SPACE: 12'

CARGO CAPACITY: 3,352 lb. EXTERIOR LENGTH (CLOSED): 37' 8" EXTERIOR HEIGHT (CLOSED): 13' 2" FRESH WATER CAPACITY: 100 gal. NUMBER OF SLIDES: 2

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

TOWA B L E S

ready to go. ready to tow.

Representatives of Fun and Excitement Work and Play representative Ed Salomon and general manager Lawton Tinley took time to meet with us and share insight about this terrific toy hauler: BRV: What was the vision for the creation of the Work and Play?

W&P: We were noticing a void in the market, and with our know-how, facilities and strong leadership we created a product line that can fit the flexibility of our customers.

It just seemed like the right thing to do since one of our company’s main goals is to be the best RV manufacturer in the industry that can be all things to all people.

BRV: What attracts customers to Forest River’s Work and Play toy haulers?

W&P: The first thing guys notice is the look and durability of the Work and Play. It offers heavy-duty construction, including steel rafters and an aluminum roof. They also like the payload capacity, which is really great. The Ultra Lite can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the heavier models can tow 7,000 pounds. Plus, the unique look separates us from the sea of sameness.

Another favorite feature is the ramp door in the back. It has a lower approach angle, so it’s easier and less dangerous to get in and out of the cargo area.

We also offer an additional ramp door option known as a “beaver tail” or “dove tail” that has an even easier and gentler approach.

BRV: Is there a different audience for the Work and Play travel trailer over the fifth wheel?

W&P: Well, both attract big boys with big toys. Otherwise, Work and Play RVs tend to attract the same type of customer, but with different needs. The fifth wheel has a bigger cargo space. So, if a customer wants to put three vehicles in there, he’ll want to get the 32-foot cargo space, which means he’ll need the fifth wheel to do this. On the other hand, the travel trailer is more popular. Both have a variety of floor plans to fit all kinds of needs.

BRV: What are the preferred features of the Work and Play?

W&P: When it comes to the exterior color, HarleyDavidson® motorcycle owners like the black with eagle.

On the interior, the sprayed floor is a highlight. It’s known as “gator hide,” and this flooring is indestructible. You can get chemicals on it and they wash off. It’s also slip-resistant.

BRV: What is the best advice you’ve ever heard or given to a beginning RVer? W&P: Before you buy a new RV, make a pro/con list and create a list of what your needs are. Make sure to plan for your family and anyone else who might go with you on trips. Then, go to a reputable dealer to make your purchase.

Take time to really learn how to use your product before you leave the dealer.

They left us with one final thought, which is, “It’s always a wonderful day at Work and Play!” ■

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TOWA B L E S

Ed Said

And Kylee makes

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Come along for the ride as a young family takes on new challenges in the Old Pueblo.

BY MONICA SURFARO SPIGELMAN

Super-cute Kylee Marie Crowell was born to be an RVer. When you hear her family’s story, you’ll understand why.

For Kylee’s parents, Ed and Ginnie Crowell, the road to RV enthusiasm has been a lifelong pursuit. Ginnie is a 13-year Lazydays veteran, with experience in RV sales coordination and has a passion for car racing. Ed, known as “Mr. Fix It” because of his technical prowess, grew up RVing and became part of the Lazydays Technical Department in 2004.

Just a few months after Ginnie became pregnant, an unexpected opportunity arrived in the form a question from Lazydays: Would the Crowells consider a temporary move to take on expanded assignments at Lazydays’ new operations in Tucson, Arizona? It didn’t take Ed and Ginnie long to say yes.

“Things were speeding ahead for Lazydays and our family,” Ed says, explaining their decision. “It was an exciting time.”

towable tips The lanky Lazydays specialist with a wide grin has a lifetime of RV experience under his belt. He’s learned a thing or two about towables, and suggests these simple guidelines when starting out in the RV lifestyle: Educate yourself. RVs come in all shapes and sizes. What’s right for you is based on personal preference and budget. Learn what is appealing as well as practical.

Ask questions. How many people will your RV accommodate? Is it for weekends or long-term? Will you be pulling toys? Will you be using hookups at campgrounds or boondocking in out-of-the-way places?

Know your tow vehicle. Does it have the necessary capacity to pull the trailer you want?

Tackle pre-trip maintenance. Be vigilant with your checklist, including: tires, brakes, bearings, lights, battery, water systems, tanks, appliances, flues, roof, hitches and windows.

Check everything two weeks prior to going on a trip, so if repairs are needed there are no last-minute emergencies.

Navigate with knowledge. Make sure you know the Gross Vehicle Rating (GVR) for your RV. Use GPS, maps and digital tools to help synchronize safety into your journey.

Be storage savvy. Store your RV dry — empty and sanitize all tanks. Leave the fridge door open so any traces of moisture in the lines or ice-maker won’t cause mold. Empty cabinets and storage compartments. Close the shades, turn off appliances and cover the tires.

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“We decided to simplify with this short-term move,” says Ed, who would drive a 2007 Holiday Rambler Scepter coach to Tucson, where the family then would move into a Carriage Carri-Lite.

Adios Tampa “We decided to simplify with this short-term move,” says Ed, who would drive a 2007 Holiday Rambler Scepter coach to Tucson, where the family then would move into a Carriage Carri-Lite.

The week’s journey was charted carefully. There were pre-trip preparations and maintenance. They made adjustments in the coach to accommodate Kylee’s baby bouncer. Kylee’s changing mat doubled as her sleeping pad, and was placed between Ed and Ginnie on the queen bed in the master bedroom. With push-down doors standard in the coach, they had minimal baby-proofing to do, which involved covering sockets and pointed edges.

The Scepter offered the stability and comforts of home.

“When you’re RVing, particularly with a newborn and pets, you must be sensitive to moods and personalities and willing to go with the flow,” Ed remembers saying as the family rolled out of Tampa, palm trees flashing past them.

“It brings you together," Ginnie agrees. “For us, RVing is about family and enjoying a special freedom.”

Back to Basics The trip was not without its mishaps. But according to Ed, when everyone does their share, you can take even the unexpected in good humor.

“We had to push through some problems, like when our electrical panels malfunctioned,” explains Ed. Then the heater failed, and in El Paso there was no heat coming out of the fans. Finally, he wound up rummaging outside with his flashlight on a 30-degree night, disconnecting heat exchanger power in the access panel, to work around some problems.

“Knowing the basics is essential to calmly handle emergencies when a mechanic isn’t available,” adds Ed.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

Savoring the Desert Arriving in Tucson is a good memory for the Crowells.

Lazydays’ sprawling campground had everything, surrounded by expansive views of nearby mountains and desert. The Carriage Carri-Lite, with its slides, large windows and washer/dryer, was top-drawer.

The family quickly adapted to their new RV. A couch was removed to set up a play area. Ed, at 6 feet 5 inches tall, appreciated the master bedroom step-up and ceiling height.

“The overhead cabinets gave us more clothes storage, which was essential because Kylee was growing so fast.”

They also added new friendships unique to their fifth wheel RV community. Tucson evenings are lovely, so Ed and Ginnie often found themselves outside with Kylee in her bouncer and the family’s miniature pinchers, Scooter and Bailey, circling nearby, as fellow RVers padded over for a visit. On Friday nights, they would head over to another RV where a big-screen TV would come outside.

They’re eager for more cross-country travel as they prepare to return to Tampa. “We had an incredible experience,” recalls Ed, rhapsodizing about the magic that comes with this unique lifestyle. “It took the road and the RV to find it.”

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.

THE RIDE OF YOUR LIFE STARTS WITH OUR CAB-FORWARD DESIGN. hear it for yourself.

visit lazydays, our exclusive retailer, for your next joy ride.

Sharing in our commitment of unfailing customer service and unmatched quality.

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TOWA B L E S

Tommy the teardrop trailer

from dream to reality

BY DARYL MAY

Daryl May is an avid traveler and RVer who recently embarked on an adventure of a different sort: building his own teardrop trailer. The following story contains excerpts from Daryl’s five-part series, which is posted online. To read the articles in their entirety, visit betterRVing.com.

A Project Is Born

Shaping Up

Tommy, the teardrop travel trailer, is taking shape – not just in my mind, but also in my garage.

I love working with my hands. In my teens, I planned to build a boat – until my studies got in the way. As a young adult, I planned to build a country cottage. Family responsibilities intervened. In middle age, I restored some antique roadsters. In retirement, I’m going to build a travel trailer. And drive it cross-country.

Teardrop trailers are low, curvaceous, lightweight travel trailers that are small enough for the family car to tow. They came of age in the 1930s, and have recently experienced renewed interest.

Tommy’s foundation is a 5-foot by 8-foot trailer kit that I selected for rigidity and safety. Inexpensively licensed and insured, the trailer conveniently fits in our garage. Tommy won’t be the most attractive teardrop trailer ever built; I’m emphasizing ease and strength of construction, and storage space, over sleek lines.

My wife, Jennifer, and I plan to take Tommy camping in Monument Valley, enjoying all the comfort that a 42-inch ceiling height allows. I’ll keep you posted!

A lesson I never learn is just how long it takes to construct things. In my mind – flash – and the project is done. In reality, things take longer.

I am a stubborn old engineer. I get satisfaction from solving construction problems, and watching a project move from nothing to … well, in this case, a teardrop trailer.

It’s true there’s a lot to be said for buying an RV already completed. The factory knows how to build them better than amateurs like me, plus you get a warranty instead of the doubtful joy of redoing your own work.

But despite buckets of sweat, insect bites, a bruised thumb and the bottomless pit of expenditures, this was a project I wanted to do myself.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

Nearing Completion As soon as I got the sidewalls up, my enthusiasm for finishing Tommy increased by leaps and bounds. My project was no longer a flatbed trailer and a collection of parts –Tommy was now visibly a teardrop trailer on track to completion.

Amid Florida’s oppressive summer heat and humidity, I continued to labor in my garage. I even experienced the

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cramped interior of the trailer as I assumed the “dead-cat” position to build the ceiling – a rather complicated task with a substantial learning curve.

Building my baby trailer has proved to be a fun but challenging experience, and it’s certainly not for everyone.

But it will all be worth it when Tommy emerges from the garage like a prairie dog from its burrow, ready to face the great outdoors.

Finishing Touches Last October, I thought Tommy was nearly complete. It seemed a mere detail to throw in a mattress and head out. Tommy looked like a camping trailer that just needed finishing touches.

Well, “completion fever” was premature. I had to attend to numerous details — often bothersome, and sometimes unforeseen — that were still required to complete the project. I upsized the wheels, added an inflatable castor wheel to the jack, created a bumper, added exterior trim, and installed the doors and windows.

As I progressed through these final stages, I spent a lot of quality time in my garage with Tommy. A regular procession of passers-by often waved or stopped to offer compliments. From the gleam in their eyes, I deduced that a project like this is an almost universal dream; and it’s certainly been a privilege for me.

Road Test and Maiden Voyage I wanted to finish Tommy before Florida’s summer made garage tasks uncomfortable, so I worked busily until the

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

little trailer was complete and ready for testing in March.

At that point, I took Tommy for a ten-mile test drive.

Happily, the trailer yielded no evidence of structural failure or quirky handling characteristics. Tommy glided along, and remained all in one piece. But there was one doozy of a snafu to be discovered when I returned home – a memorable “oops” having to do with the door locks.

Once the lock issue was resolved, Jennifer and I packed up and drove to Lazydays RV Campground for Tommy’s inaugural outing. We enjoyed a relaxing and comfortable stay, and slept well within my handcrafted RV. Then we hit I-4 once more, feeling that there’s nothing quite as satisfying as heading out on the open road pulling your own little teardrop trailer. ■ To read the full series go to betterRVing.com

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Lazydays senior graphic designer, Kyle Williams and his family got their ďŹ rst taste of boondocking at 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo, an annual mountain biking event.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

TOWA B L E S

Kyle’s Crazy Desert Misadventure How the Williams Family Found Its Place in the Sonoran Sun

BY MONICA SURFARO SPIGELMAN, PHOTOGRAPHY KYLE WILLIAMS

Y

ou know Southern Arizona from the tour books: forests of majestic saguaros framed by rugged cliffs, washes and grasslands. The Williams family was ready for a feast for the senses. Or so they thought.

It was Kyle Williams’ first taste of boondocking in the desert, and his family was stoked. A Lazydays senior graphic designer who recently relocated to Tucson from Florida, Kyle and his family were eager for the desert to work its magic. This late-February trip for a mountain-biking event was just the ticket.

“I’m down for this,” Kyle exclaimed to his wife, Kim, the evening before their trip. Ever since their move west, the Williams family had longed to take the RV for a desert adventure. The fact that Kyle could set up a Lazydays display at this special event made the trip even more appealing.

Mountain Bike Paradise 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo is an annual event which hosts some 1,700 racers and hundreds more onlookers, RVers and hiking enthusiasts. Set amid stunning scenery, the must-do 24-hour race for mountain bikers included four days of camping, an industry expo, entertainment and a variety of other activities.

Kyle would drive a Class C Forest River Sunseeker, towing a 19-foot r•pod that contained a Lazydays exhibit for the event. Even with Kyle’s marketing responsibilities, there would be ample time to hike some cool trails through canyons and corrals, enjoy campfires and participate in active, outdoor family entertainment.

“We always enjoy traveling together,” said Kyle of his family, which includes Kim, daughter Kai and their sevenyear-old shelter dog, Archie, an Australian shepherd/collie mix. “I’ve been with Lazydays three years and we feel so

27

lucky to have these opportunities to get out and experience the RV lifestyle,” he noted. he plan was to load up and leave midday.

There would be plenty of time to drive the to the event, arrive refreshed, pick a camping site and set up. But on the day of departure, Kyle was running behind schedule. Kim, always good-humored about family adventures, was worried.

“I’m prepared,” he protested, although warily eying the diminishing daylight. This was a first-come, first-served event, with people showing up early to claim spots. It was close to 6 p.m. when the Williams family finally began the journey along Highway 77. Their Sunseeker was a confidence builder with its sturdy construction and steadfast handling. With Kyle and Kim in the cockpit and Kai perched in the top bunk with Archie, the family enjoyed the sunset, buoyed by the magical colors just beginning to paint the rocks. They were just traveling 20 miles north of Tucson and were ready for a great weekend ahead.

T

First-Timer at the Turnoff It was dark when Kyle finally made it to the turnoff. “Oops,” he thought, remembering the late start. The roads had become more uneven and washed out in unfamiliar rough terrain. Even though he was a long-time back-country adventurer, Kyle was feeling a bit uneasy as he maneuvered down some steep washes.

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“We knew one of the racers, so I called him,” explained Kyle. Pete, the mountain biker, hadn’t been able to save Kyle a spot, with so many already camped at the late hour. “I had a few more RVs behind me also looking for a spot, so I kept driving,” said Kyle. With the roads getting smaller, Kim began to give Kyle worried sideways glances. But the family also saw campers already settled along the road having a good time, so they kept going.

Bump. Slide. The motorhome drove forward. “I made it across some washes,” recalled Kyle, “but then I came to this one…”

Steep and dotted with rocks, the large wash looked like trouble. The end of a long day, coupled with Kyle’s inexperience in the dark desert, prompted a few missteps and grumbles. Kyle edged down the wash when … plunk!

The motorhome bottomed and was stuck.

Almost immediately, campers nearby gathered to help.

“You gotta punch it,” urged one. With palms sweating, Kyle again called Pete, who immediately came over to help.

The crowd grew, offering advice and muscle. As one group unhooked and secured the r•pod (they were on a hill), others orchestrated assistance for the stuck motorhome. After hitching it to Pete’s truck, a group stood ready at back, with Kyle in the cockpit. “It was a comedy scene,” remembered Kyle, as the friendly, socializing campers

Bump. Slide. The motorhome drove forward. “I made it across some washes,” recalled Kyle, “but then I came to this one…”

attempted to also follow instructions. Back and forth they swayed. Even campers stuck behind the Sunseeker were out pushing and enjoying the evening. After 45 minutes of dedicated team effort, the motorcoach gave a mighty grunt and popped out of the sand. The crowd cheered.

“It was late, but I still needed to inspect for damage,” said Kyle. It appeared the generator muffler had been ripped off the Class C, and one septic pipe was dragging on the ground. Ouch!

Safety required that the team secure the r•pod further onto the shoulder so others could get by. With the r•pod at an awkward angle and fellow RVers promising to keep watch, Kyle drove to Pete’s campsite, where other generous campers had rearranged vehicles, allowing Kyle to squeeze in.

After settling his family in for the evening, Kyle went

back to check on the r•pod. His new-found buddies had regrouped and moved it to the side of the road. Grateful for their help, Kyle surveyed the damage to the brand-new, never-been-scratched retro toy. The tongue had dragged on the rocks, and the connector cable had gotten crushed under part of the pod and grinded the lights. Exhausted, Kyle knew the only thing to do that night was to get a little sleep, then return up that crazy dirt road again to somehow pick up the r•pod and reposition it at the expo.

Before sunrise, Kyle was up and out, gingerly maneuvering his Class C to pick up the r•pod. Arriving at the wash, he looked around. No r•pod. Where was it? Frantically, he called upon one of the group who had helped the night before. Sleepily, the camper drawled, “Well, we needed to clear the road for others so the organizer came by with his truck to take it away.”

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Kyle’s 10 Best Bets for Desert Boondocking 1.

Map Manifesto: Make sure you plan your route and are familiar with the terrain and conditions of turnouts along the way.

2.

Vehicle Smarts: Know your vehicle’s limits.

Read the owner’s manual and do a practice run prior to travel. Inexperience got the best of me because I did not know my clearance.

3.

Pre-Trip Equipment Check: Be ready for adventure by checking the generator, tires, battery, wipers, engine oil, fluids, lights and filters.

4.

Daylight Driving: It’s not a good idea to go into the desert in the pitch black, especially with no reservations! Approach the desert (or any terrain you’re not familiar with) with respect.

5.

Accessorize for Safety: Be sure the vehicle is stocked with first-aid essentials and emergency tools, including jumper cables and flashlights.

6.

Pack Pre-Made Meals: It’s important to stock the larder when you’re boondocking. Precook as much as you can to create a self-sufficient sampler everyone enjoys. You never know when you’ll need a quick burrito wrap!

7.

Simple Necessities: Sometimes the simplest things are the easiest to forget. Pack the toilet paper, plates and sunscreen. Bring a journal to document exciting new discoveries and the wealth of learning experiences. Bring games and your cell phone to set up a Wi-Fi hotspot in the desert. Allow the kids a regulated bit of Internet time. After all, every eight-year-old needs at least one Taylor Swift video!

8.

Pet-Friendly Camping: Even dogs as easygoing as Archie can have problems in unfamiliar territory. It takes a little coordination and planning, but remember to bring portable bowls, plastic bags, a long leash and plenty of water.

9.

Boondock Camping and Courtesy: Being a good neighbor is essential. When you’re dry camping, take care not to run your battery down.

Find a level area. Keep your campsite clean. It’s all about camaraderie and respect for nature.

“Where did he take it?” Kyle asked as politely as possible. “Why, to the expo area, of course!” said the camper easily.

r•pod Angel Kyle was dumbstruck by the kindness of his new desert friends. They’d come through in a big way. Not only was he helped out of the wash, but the r•pod had been towed by the event organizer to a prominent spot amid the hubbub of the industry expo area. “I was just bowled over by everyone’s kindness,” said Kyle. “My leaving late made me vulnerable in an unfamiliar area. I should have paid a price for that mistake, but instead, the generosity of strangers was amazing.”

Thanking everyone, Kyle hurried over to set up the r•pod. Despite the problems, the r•pod was now settled in the best spot it could be, right at the front gate near the event hospitality station and expo.

“The Lazydays exhibit was awesome,” exclaimed Kyle.

“We had RVers, bikers and families streaming by all day.”

With earlier mistakes behind them, the Williams family was free to explore other aspects of the event — including hiking, music and grilling — as the bikers raced by. The day ended at the campfire, with the Williams clan sitting in the desert, listening to the stories of fellow campers. The family felt like they had wandered into a cathedral of saguaros. They marveled at the beauty of the desert, as s’mores by the fire lulled everyone to a relaxed and happy state.

“Anyone who tells you RVing is perfect all the time is just lucky,” smiled Kyle. “A camping trip like this is the stuff memories are made of.”

What did Kyle learn? Check out his list of pointers.

He enjoyed this desert boondocking so much that he started discussing a new trek with Kim and Kai just after the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo adventure.

“Plan all you want,” Kim laughed as the family headed back down to Tucson. “As long as we stay out of the washes!” ■

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10. Patience: So often on this trip, our tempers could have gotten the best of us. Instead, we all stayed calm, and laughed about it with strangers. Getting upset or frustrated is not your friend while boondocking!

“Anyone who tells you RVing is perfect all the time is just lucky,� smiled Kyle. “A camping trip like this is the stuff memories are made of.�

WOULD W OULD YOU YOU LIKE LIKE TTO O ENJOY ENJOY THE THE H HILLS ILLS AND AND TTHE HE VALLEYS? VALLEYS? Blue OxÂŽ has the solution. We call it the Patriot.

You’ll call it peace of mind.

When traveling in your motorhome, it should be about creating new friendships, breathing the fresh air of the outdoors, and spending time with those you love. Too often you’re spending precious time holding your breath as you slowly make your way through unavoidable mountain passes and steep hills.

Blue OxŽ offers a braking system built of all-electric components that stops your towed car smoothly and proportionally. It is compatible with all towed vehicles, even hybrids, so you don’t have to worry.

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TOWA B L E S

Little Guy

means big fun

‘‘

So many new things in the works that our biggest issues are handling the growth and determining which opportunities to take next.

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Teardrop trailers may be small, but they always make a big impression. This unique style of RV even inspired a monthslong labor of love for Daryl May (read page 22). If you’re intrigued by the teardrop but eager to get on the road NOW, you can buy a pre-made model that’s ready to roll.

Ohio-based Little Guy Worldwide manufactures a line of teardrop travel trailers that are easy to tow, economical to own and built for fun; their motto is, “I go where I’m towed to.” We recently spoke with Chris Baum, chief operating officer, about these pint-sized powerhouses and what’s next for the company.

What’s new at Little Guy Worldwide headquarters? There are so many new things in the works that our biggest issues are handling the growth and determining which opportunities to take next. We’re expanding into Arizona with the Lazydays Tucson location. Overseas markets are flourishing, with new countries coming on board almost every few weeks. We have a new long term agreement with “The Price is Right;” they’ll be featuring the T@B on upcoming episodes. We’ve partnered with Yuengling® on a new in-store campaign and trailer giveaway that has been so popular that it will be spread to all of their regional

markets. We’re partnering with SoloBoat™ to take their product national as part of a Camp-n-Fish package. We just kicked out the first custom T@B for the U.S. National Whitewater Center. We’re also bringing to the U.S. marketplace an incredibly popular trailer from our European market: a one-piece, allfiberglass model with an aluminum frame that will change the lightweight camping demographic. We’re even doing portable ATM machines for banks and disaster-relief units, for when you need to get out of town quick! But most importantly, I really believe that we are building the best trailers we ever have. We’re committed to never losing sight of what our core product is and who our core customer base is, while expanding the Little Guy, Silver Shadow and T@B product lines.

What one accomplishment is Little Guy most proud of this year? The fact that as we continue to grow and expand, we’ve remained focused on outsourcing every possible component within the state of Ohio and providing more jobs and increased revenue within our local footprint. We’ve also been able to expand our dealer base through partnerships with the likes of Lazydays and others, which has really added mainstream credibility and exposure to what we do.

What type of vehicle is needed to tow a Little Guy? We make models compatible for any tow vehicle — from a motorcycle or trike to a large SUV or full-size pickup.

Can people come to visit the plant? We give tours and open our doors to anyone who would like to come spend some time in Amish Country or visit our corporate location and maybe appear in a video! We

encourage this as much as possible, as [owner] Joe [Kicos] and I love to meet our customers, since this is where the most honest feedback and best ideas come from.

How many tennis balls/clowns/ jellybeans can you fit in a Little Guy? Clowns still kinda creep me out, but I think we could probably fit 10 or 12 in a 6-Wide Little Guy! Roughly 2,000 tennis balls and close to 20,000 jellybeans, dependent upon the brand.

Can you get intimate with your significant other in the Little Guy? You’re obviously not familiar with the phrase “If the teardrop’s rockin’, don’t bother knockin’!” Hence the fact that we offer window shades, padded walls and mirrors on the ceilings now!

It’s usually one or two camping, right? What’s the largest group to sleep in one? We offer king-size mattresses in all of our 6-Wides and T@Bs; so, however many you can fit into that space. We’ve even added custom bunk beds for babies, small children and packs of beagles! The attachable screen-room tent option for all of our models adds quite a bit of space, too; so, really, no family is too large for our trailers. This makes it perfect for the family that wants to travel within the confines of their 4-cylinder, hybrid or electric vehicle.

What is the craziest thing a customer has done with a Little Guy? I know I haven’t seen them all, but we’ve done portable ATM machines, skis for cross-country, ice-fishing shacks, a lot of custom tailgating and hunting tree stands, astronomy stations … if you can envision it, I’m sure it’s been done. My daughter and some of her friends will be packing up a trailer and traveling to a few of the state parks featured on the reality show “Finding Bigfoot” and videoing their adventure for us!

Who is the tallest Little Guy owner? Who is the smallest? I’m sure one of the largest owners is Joe Thomas of the Cleveland Browns, at almost 6 foot 7 inches tall and 315 pounds. As far as the smallest, we’ve had many in the 5 foot or so category, not including kids.

Have any of your Amish craftsmen hitched a Little Guy to a horse and cart? Not that I’m aware of, but I don’t see why not. They camp too, right?

Has anyone ever put a Little Guy on top of a building? We’ve had dealers put them on top of buildings and up on poles in front of their dealerships. Yes, it does get attention … and maybe more than a few wrecks! ■

We’re also bringing to the U.S. marketplace an incredibly popular trailer from our European market: a one-piece, all-fiberglass

’’

model ...

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

Give Me 5 Classic Games for On-the-Road Fun

BY MONICA SURFARO SPIGELMAN

Delightful moments that pass the time often occur the old-fashioned way. Your mobile electronic game may run out of juice, but your imagination never does. When you need some in-car entertainment to stir up the fun (and quell the question, “Are we there yet?”), consider these five cheery distractions for your getaway repertoire.

1 2 3 4 5

I Spy I Spy is an all-time winner that begins with someone selecting an object — either something in the car, or an item outside that is in everyone’s view for a few minutes. (Things whizzing by at 55 mph are off limits.) The leader announces, “I spy with my little eye something that begins with…” and provides the first letter of the word. Others are then invited to guess the answer. This game is great for identifying landmarks and keeping everyone alert. (ehow.com/how_13463_play-i-spy.html )

It’s a Mad, Mad World: Mad Libs™ Imaginative and timeless, this game lets you get goofy with friends by filling in the blanks with nouns, verbs and adjectives to make silly stories. What started out as a party game about half a century ago is still an all-age zany favorite that’s great for car rides. You can find classic Mad Libs paper pads in most bookstores; however, you also can make your own or download wacky themes from websites. (madlibs.com)

Playing-Card Decks From classics to wizardry, from history to picture fun — a deck of playing cards can transport you to worlds of fantasy and learning. Using your everyday “French suit” 52-card pack, there are hundreds of traditional card games to play. For your youngest travelers, Old Maid and Go Fish are always popular choices. War also works great with teens. (bicyclecards.com/card-games/rules)

Road Trip Bingo This classic travel game keeps everyone engaged. You can download a variety of free cards online. Make them reusable by laminating the cards and using washable markers. You also may consider making your own. Print BINGO across the top of a blank sheet of paper, and create a five-column grid underneath the letters. In each box, jot names of items you see on the road (makes of cars, state license plates, buildings, signs, etc.). (momsminivan.com/printables.html) Journey Journal Create your own travel journal with a little bit of planning: Before the trip, download maps and cut out an assortment of pictures, charts and headlines from old magazines. Bring along notebooks, markers and glue sticks for all. Let everyone draw images or jot notes along the map route. Doodle crazy captions when you reach milestones. Save toll receipts and admission tickets for a collage. (squidoo.com/travel-diaries-for-kids)■ 35

Maintaining Your Air Conditioning Unit

BY FRED SMITH, PHOTOGRAPHY JEFF FAY

Tech Talk With Lazydays Expert Mike Willet RVIA/RVDA Master CertiďŹ ed Technician 35+ Years RV Experience

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

I

t’s summer, which means RVers everywhere are trying to tame the gods of heat and humidity with the divine invention of air conditioning. Here are a few tips to keep your RV’s A/C system in shape through the

sweltering summer months.

How an Air Conditioner Works: The Simple Explanation An air conditioner essentially sucks air through its intake and extracts heat from it by running the air through an evaporator. The cold air that remains is distributed through the vents and cools the interior of your coach.

The most important aspect of a well-running A/C system is airflow.

Maintaining proper airflow in your RV’s air conditioning system is crucial to ensure that your unit runs as it should.

Filters Keeping your interior filters clean is a great first step toward maintaining airflow. You can replace your filters when they get dirty, or you can clean your filters and save the expense of buying new ones.

To clean your interior A/C filter, remove the filter, wash it with water, shake out the debris and reinstall it. A clean filter allows air to flow.

Roof Units Your outside unit can accumulate dust, dirt and leaves that can inhibit airflow. It’s always a good idea to keep the unit clean so air can flow through it properly.

To clean your roof unit, you must first remove its housing. Then take a hose and wash the condensing unit by running water over the coils. The coils will dry naturally when you restart your A/C unit. There is no need to use a spray nozzle or attack the coils with any kind of pressurized water, since this can potentially collapse the fins and reduce airflow. If you happen to collapse your unit’s fins, you can buy a fin comb at most auto parts retailers and use the comb to brush the fins back to their proper place.

Know When to Call a Pro You got into the RVing lifestyle to have fun, not to deal with the intricacies of malfunctioning air conditioning systems. (Leave that to us technicians.) While it’s great to have a do-it-yourself attitude with your RV, understand that the inner workings of your A/C system are complicated and best repaired by a certified RV technician. Remember that airflow is the most important aspect of a well-running A/C system.

If your coach is still uncomfortably warm after you’ve performed the tasks we’ve discussed in this article, call a professional RV service center and have your system checked out by a qualified technician.

Have fun and stay cool! ■

What Is a Thermistor?

A thermistor is an electronic sensor that reads air temperature and sends a signal back to your A/C unit, letting it know how hot or cold the interior of your coach is. Your RV likely has several of these devices placed around the coach. Be aware that thermistors are sometimes aesthetically located in odd places, like inside cabinets or near light fixtures, which can lead to inaccurate temperature readings.

Running fans inside your coach is a good idea. Fans promote airflow and help thermistors achieve more accurate readings, since flowing air is easier to gauge than dormant air.

Did You Know?

On average, a central A/C unit in an RV can produce air that is 20-25 degrees cooler than the temperature of the air before the unit is turned on. So if it is 90 degrees in the coach when you turn the A/C unit on, your RV should be able to produce air that is 65-70 degrees in temperature.

By comparison, the A/C unit in your RV’s dashboard can produce air that is 15-20 degrees colder than the temperature of the air when the unit is turned on.

Condensing Cleaner Caution I recommend that you do NOT use condensing cleaner on your A/C unit, as it can corrode the clear coat on your RV and ultimately damage your coach’s paint. When certified technicians professionally clean a condensing unit, they will use condensing cleaner. However, they will remove the entire unit from the roof when they do this so the condensing cleaner does not damage the RV’s clear coat or paint.

37

Quick Tips

(find more tips at betterRVing.com)

Summer Checklist

If you haven’t taken the proper steps before heading out on the road, the summer can take a toll on your RV. Lazydays expert Andy Dietz has some great advice on what to do so you can enjoy your travels and stay worry-free all summer.

❑ Air out your coach by opening all of the windows and vents. ❑ Turn on all the lights and fans to check for burned out fuses or bulbs and to make sure the converter is charging your battery properly.

❑ Test your GFI (ground fault interrupter) plugs with a tester kit available at the hardware store.

❑ Make sure the faucets are closed, and place the water heater bypass assembly back into the summer position. Now you can fill your fresh water tank.

❑ Purge the water lines with the water pump and remove any bacteria in the tank with a tank freshener product. You can also add a cup of bleach to a gallon of water and pour it into the empty tank. Fill the tank and run all of the faucets until you smell bleach. Let it sit for 24 hours, drain and fill with fresh water.

❑ Make sure your water lines are flowing clear and the water heater reads FULL, then plug into shore power and test the system.

❑ Inspect the fittings and remove the access panels to ensure there are no leaks. Then check the fresh water tank, underbelly, black and gray holding tanks and gate valves for leaks or damage.

❑ Check that all of your appliances are operational. Start with the electrical ones and then move onto the gas appliances after turning the liquid propane tanks back on. If you smell any propane, turn off all of the appliances and call an RV technician to inspect the system.

❑ Replace the batteries on all of your clocks, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

❑ Operate your slides to make sure they’re functional.

Now the hard part is done! All that’s left is to relax and enjoy your summer travels. ■

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

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!

39

WORLD OF WORK CAMPING

Canyon de

Chelly, A

BY BILL WHETSTONE

BY BILL WHETSTONE

s work campers and full-time RVers, Jolene and I travel from one great destination to another during our seasonal breaks. These journeys also provide a welcomed opportunity to explore other new and interesting places along the way.

During our recent trip from Lazydays Tucson to Yellowstone for the start of a new work camping season, we enjoyed some fascinating detours. One such stop was Canyon de Chelly National Monument (www.nps.gov/cach) in Northeastern Arizona. Encompassing scenic vistas and ancient ruins, Canyon de Chelly (pronounced “de shay”) was named after the Navajo word “Tséyi,” which means “canyon” (or, more literally, “within the rock”).

History The colorful cliff walls of the Canyon are the result of millions of years of natural forces at work. Among the first settlers to inhabit this area were the Ancient Pueblo people, sometimes known as the Anasazi, who established villages here between A.D. 750 and 1300. Although the Puebloans moved out of the canyons during the mid1300s, the Hopi, who are believed to be descendants of the Puebloans, continued to do some farming here while maintaining dwellings on the mesa tops. The Navajo people later replaced the Hopi, settling in the canyon during the 1700s. Today, Canyon de Chelly is under the ownership of the Navajo Nation and administered by the National Park Service.

Sights and Shopping Ancient petroglyphs and pictographs adorn the canyon walls, while the ruins of sprawling pueblos provide a glimpse into the lives of the earliest settlers. There are many interesting activities you can enjoy during your visit.

Make the Visitor Center your first stop. Here you’ll find an orientation video, bookstore and silversmith demonstrations. You can also pick up a map, inquire about park events and obtain tour information.

Most of the park is accessible only by guided tour with a park ranger or authorized Navajo guide. Inquire at the Visitor Center or local hotels if you wish to book a private tour. You can choose between hiking, horseback or 4×4 vehicle tours.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

Arizona

You can also do a self-guided hike on the park’s only public trail, which leads to the White House Ruin. It’s a nice hike down into the Canyon to a large ruin that is fenced off.

Allow about two hours for the hike, and be aware that pets aren’t allowed on the trail.

While hiking the White House Ruin trail or touring the Canyon, you’ll see Navajo craftsmen set up along the river under the shade of the cottonwoods. They have many crafts available from jewelry to pottery to ... I highly recommend shopping here; you’ll find some great local handicrafts and souvenirs.

In addition to the self-guided hike and private tours, you can also follow one of two scenic drive routes. There are three overlooks on the North Rim Drive and seven on the South Rim Drive. Allow about two hours for each drive.

New Acquaintances Among the highlights of this trip were the people we met at the park. I had very interesting conversations with a nurse and a photographer.

The nurse is currently working as a travel nurse. Her job is almost like a work-camping gig, but she doesn’t have an RV yet. (I advised her to go to Lazydays and get one.) She was working with the Navajo tribal nursing home for three months and would then be leaving for a new assignment.

Perfect for an RVer! The photographer was on assignment.

He was taking shots of the ruins and canyon walls, and had his camera set on a tripod with a timer. Every 30 seconds— click! Perhaps you wonder the same as me: Why? It turns out he’s a location scout for the movie industry; he compiles all the images into a time-lapse movie for the director. This allows the director to track the shadows and lighting during the day to plan out the best time to shoot each scene. The movie he was working on is the new “Lone Ranger” with Johnny Depp. The filming was scheduled to take place two weeks later. This film is on my must-see list now! ■ Our next stop: Mesa Verde National Park! Find more of my articles on betterRVing.com and search Bill Whetstone.

Where to Stay Cottonwood Campground in Canyon de Chelly navajonationparks.org/htm/ canyondechelly_camp.htm Canyon de Chelly has a dry campground located right by the park entrance. The sites are a nice size; most are backins, with a few pull-throughs.

The maximum vehicle length is 40 feet. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. While there are no hook-ups available, there is a dump station on site as well as three restroom facilities with sinks and flush toilets, but no showers. One caveat is that tribal dogs tend to wander around the campground.

They’re friendly guys, but take care when walking your own dog. Cottonwood Campground is managed by the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department (NPRD). Visit the website or call 928.674.2106 for details.

The campground is located near the park entrance, off of Tribal Road (Indian Route) 7 in Chinle, AZ 86503.

GPS: 36.150074, -109.53918

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Barney’s Tips for Safe RV Driving

BY FRED SMITH

Barney Alexander is Lazydays’ recently retired senior RV driving instructor, and has taught more than 44,000 students. He is also an avid RVer and fifth wheel owner.

How tall is your motorhome?

For years you’ve driven a car or truck and never worried about low clearances. Now that you own a motorhome, you must be aware that low clearances are everywhere. It’s a good idea to write down the height of your coach in a note that permanently lives on your dashboard, so when you encounter a “low clearance” sign, you’ll know for sure if your coach will pass underneath without incident.

Here are some more tips from RV driving expert Barney Alexander about handling low clearances in your motorhome: Make sure you know the height of your RV in feet and inches as well as in meters and centimeters. This is important when traveling through Canada, where they use the metric system.

Feet and inch measurements will be of no use to you there.

Most truck stops (including the Flying J at Lazydays) sell a Rand McNally book called the Motor Carrier’s Road Atlas that lists every low clearance in the United States. At a cost of about $20, it is a good investment for RVers.

Consider buying a GPS that will inform you of low clearances.

Truck drivers often rely on this type of device. While more expensive than an atlas, it’s also a good investment.

It is very important that you account for any height adjustments you make to your coach as a result of installing rooftop items like a satellite dish. Round up your coach’s height so you don’t cut it close.

Be wary of older service stations, as they may have repaved their lot several times over the years but may not have changed their clearance signs.

Watch out for low-hanging tree limbs on back roads.

Unfortunately they don’t come with clearance signs, but they can damage your coach all the same.

Pay attention to the roof of your home when you back into your driveway. Chances are your roof is about 9 feet off the ground, so take care not to back into it when you park your new motorhome. ■

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

For the land of the free.

For the home of the brave.

Forever Fleetwood.

We’re going further to help fulfill your dreams. Our full line of motor homes at Lazydays is backed by their unparalleled support and a commitment to our customers. Which means you can see the world, stick your hand out the window and wave your worries goodbye. In a Fleetwood RV, you’re ready for the road ahead. Begin your journey at FleetwoodRV.com.

Configure a coach the way YOU want!

Colors • Floor Plans • Options • Décor www.FleetwoodRV.com

Providence | Discovery | Expedition | Southwind | Bounder | Terra | Storm | Tioga DSL | Jamboree DSL | Tiorga | Jamboree 43

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

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

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.

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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.

45

Looking for mobile apps?

There’s a class for that.

BY PHIL AMMANN

W

hether you’re on the road or at home, your smartphone, tablet or other mobile device can be used for much more than just talking and texting. By adding a few mobile applications – or “apps,” for short — your device can make life easier and road trips more fun!

There are apps for almost everything: banking and shopping; local, national and international news and sports; education and recreation. Ideal for traveling, apps can help you get directions, keep track of your finances, find the nearest gas station or provide information in case of emergency.

With thousands to choose from, finding the right apps for your needs can be a little confusing. That’s where Sam Matzen comes in. Sam teaches a weekly “Apps” class at Lazydays in Tampa. (lazydays.com/training) Sam’s class is perfect for those who are new to smartphones and tablets. He’ll show you what apps are and which ones are ideal for your computer, tablet or smartphone. You’ll learn all kinds of tips and tricks – how to find an app, hints for downloading apps and how apps can be used to simplify your life at home or on the road.

Mobile applications are easy to find, download and use. Depending on the type of device you own – for example, Apple® or Android® – you can download apps through iTunes® (www.apple.com/itunes) or through the Android Market at Google Play™ (play.google.com/store). Apps are available for all mobile devices, and many are free.

With Sam’s help, you’ll be able to load up your mobile device with handy apps that make RV living better and more enjoyable. But even if you can’t make it to Lazydays for Sam’s “Apps” class, you can still benefit from his knowledge and tips.

Read on for some of Sam’s top app recommendations for fellow RVers.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

HEALTH:

DINING:

FINANCIAL:

Microsoft® HealthVault®

Urbanspoon®

Mint.com® (www.mint.com)

(www.microsoft.com/en-us/ healthvault)

(www.urbanspoon.com) Yelp® (www.yelp.com)

Readily available health information can be critical when you’re on the road, especially in an emergency.

When you need vital data now, your portable device can be a lifesaver.

The appeal of RV travel is in discovery — exploring the country, visiting different sights and finding exciting vacation spots. At the same time, the challenge of cross-country journeys can be identifying an area’s hidden gems or a fabulous meal.

While some RVers like to stick with tried-and-true chains, many others feel that no road trip is complete without the thrill of discovering a new favorite restaurant, coffee shop or entertainment venue.

Microsoft’s online HealthVault service helps you securely store and manage health records, medications and information on chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

Share it instantly with your doctor or pharmacist, whether you’re at home or on the road.

HealthVault provides more than 100 free downloadable apps for your smartphone or tablet — giving you more control of your health and fitness goals. Available apps can connect with pharmacies, keep track of weight loss, connect with healthcare providers and ensure you and your family are ready for a medical emergency.

Begin by visiting the Microsoft HealthVault website via the link above. From there, you can sign up for a free account and then go to the “apps & devices” page to download apps for your mobile device.

Entering information in the safe and secure HealthVault database is easy — type it in yourself, upload documents from your computer, have your doctor fax records directly to the vault or use a service to change your forms into a digital format.

Connect with labs, hospitals and clinics to update your records, or with special devices, like wireless blood pressure monitors or pedometers, to track your health. With Microsoft HealthVault on your mobile device, you’ll always be prepared in case of medical emergency.

Your mobile device can be your guide to fun. There are several apps to help you find the best local spots. They typically provide locations, reviews and/or tips, and let you add your own ratings. Two of the most popular dining apps are Urbanspoon and Yelp. Both apps can add excitement to your vacation, all from the palm of your hand.

Urbanspoon uses GPS to allow you to search for nearby restaurants by location, cuisine or price. This fun app also lets you press a “spin” button or shake the phone for randomized recommendations of local restaurants.

Like Urbanspoon, Yelp also uses the GPS tracking system on your device.

However, Yelp can help you find more than just a great meal. This app not only shows you the nearest restaurants, but also nightclubs, churches, gas stations, shopping centers and more. You can also search by type of food (e.g., pizza or tacos) or business (e.g., garage or tire store), as well as by address or zip code.

Both apps are free and available for any handheld device. Simply download the app and sign up with your email address — then get ready to explore the best of your travel destinations..

At the heart of every app is convenience — using a mobile device to make your life easier. For managing your personal finances, there are apps that help you simplify your transactions and keep an eye on your money.

Mint.com, from Intuit, is a leader in online personal money management.

Their new mobile app allows you to view all of your accounts in one convenient location. Mint.com also helps you set up budgets and easily enter cash transactions. Use your device to keep track of your checking, investments and savings — anytime and anywhere!

You can download Mint.com from the App store for your device, and then open a free Mint.com account.

With this handy app, you get real-time links to your bank, easily tracking transactions on the go. You can even import data directly into TurboTax® software to make tax time a little less nerve-wracking.

Now you can have the ability to scan your grocery budget while in the store or view expenses instantly when deciding on a large purchase.

This app lets you monitor how much you have to spend, before you spend it.

As for security, the Mint.com app gives you the same level of protection you get from your bank — all transactions secured with 128-bit SSL encryption. With industry-leading validation technology through VeriSign and TRUSTe,® your personal information is totally secure.

The Mint.com app on your smartphone is perfect for the RV lifestyle, allowing you to track and manage your finances wherever you go. ■

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SAFETY HARBOR Daytripping in the Secret Jewel of Tampa Bay

BY ADAM PORTER, PHOTOGRAPHY JEFF FAY & JOHAN VELEZ

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Safety Harbor offers an escape to a quaint, quiet, small town.

Discover the marina, walk the main street, ďŹ nd a bite to eat, or relax under the oldest living oak tree in the county.

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S

afety Harbor, nestled along the northwest coast of Old Tampa Bay, is one of Central Florida’s hidden jewels. Literally. It says so on the sign headed into town, and they are not exaggerating. This unique waterfront community possesses a hometown vibe and a family-friendly attitude, but manages to shed the “quaint” label like rain sliding off sailcloth. It is hospitable without being rustic, a safe haven for kids but equally alluring for “grownups.” And, while it is home to one of the nation’s most celebrated spa resorts, Safety Harbor embraces waterfront elegance without pretense — an egalitarian acceptance that invites everyone to feel right at home.

In spite of these many charms, millions of daytrippers, tourists and locals from neighboring Clearwater pass on through, headed toward the gorgeous beaches on the Gulf side of the Pinellas peninsula. Some never realize they are passing up the opportunity for world-class pampering and the perfect spot to fill a stringer with tasty redfish, or that they are missing out on some truly eclectic shopping and the chance to play under the sunshine on an isolated sea.

So, whether you want to do any or all of those things — or you just want to find a fun, familyfriendly spot to unwind on a Friday night — drop your anchor for a day in Safety Harbor.

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SAFETY HARBOR SAFE BETS

Athens Restaurant

Whistle Stop Grill & Bar

Great Greek fare for lunch, but also offers surprisingly “Southern-style” breakfasts and omelets with a Mediterranean flair. Located at 226 Main St.; 727.726.3471.

(whistlestopgrill.com) — This lunch and dinner joint is prized for its good food, laid-back atmosphere and sweet potato fries. Open-air seating under a covered ceiling gives the Whistle Stop a “beach bar” vibe. The menu mixes pure Florida with southern Americana. Located at 915 Main St.; 727.726.1956.

Safety Harbor City Marina (cityofsafetyharbor.com) — Convenient, clean and quiet, this is a great spot for fishing, boating and, occasionally, manatee viewing. Veterans Memorial Park, adjacent to the marina, offers three small picnic pavilions and a butterfly garden. The marina is also next door to the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa (see breakout), so if your “his” and “hers” ideas of relaxation tend to differ, everyone can still go home happy. Located at 110 Veterans Memorial Ln.; 727.724.1545.

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Safety Harbor Galleria Cruise this co-op studio of handmade, upcycled and vintage crafts and decor in 10 minutes, or browse all day and keep discovering new reasons to stay a little longer. Located at 123 Second Ave. S.; 727.799.1600.

Funks Way Art Market A groovier flavor of feng shui, furniture and furnishings crafted out of recycled or repurposed items. Each one-of-akind piece has a story to tell. Located at 228 Main St.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Parking downtown is easy and free. There is parallel parking for passenger cars along Main Street, and spacious lots at Second and Third Avenues South.

The weekly Thursday Farmer’s Market offers seasonal, locally grown produce and fresh flowers. Look for it near the gazebo in John Wilson Park, 401 Main St., from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Other special events run throughout the year. For information, click over to safetyharborevents.com or call 727.724.1572.

Green Spring Bistro

Philippe Park

(greenspringsbistro.com) — Here, “Gulf Coast cookin’ … and then some” means local seafood favorites and Mediterranean-inspired selections. Blue crab, gumbo and shrimp with grits share a menu with Beneli and Mahi.

Located at 156 Fourth Ave. N.; 727.669.6762.

(pinellascounty.org/park/11_philippe.htm) — Picnic by the bay and connect with Safety Harbor history. Walk to the top of the Tocobaga Temple Mound for the best view in town, then grab a seat on a bench and bask in the gorgeous waterside scenery. Enjoy playgrounds, terrific biking and hiking trails throughout the park and a can’tmiss photo op in front of a massive, centuries-old live oak.

Located at 2525 Philippe Parkway.

Tapping the Vine™ (tappingthevine.com) — The place to go for “just drinks” or dessert. The food is good, but the libations are even better.

Located at 737 Main St. Suite 100; 727.330.7514.

Tocobaga Tours Get out on the water with these guided “eco-heritage kayak adventures.” Independent adventurers may also rent kayaks. Tours depart from the Safety Harbor Marina at 110 Veterans Memorial Ln.; 727.389.8687.

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HISTORY + CULTURE

T

hough archeological evidence reveals that this area has been inhabited for over 6,000 years, the first historical record dates only to 1528, when Spanish explorer Pánfilo de Narváez encountered the native Tocobaga tribes. Another Spaniard, Hernando de Soto, led a second expedition here in 1539, searching for the Fountain of Youth. While he did not find the mythical fountain, de Soto did discover a natural mineral spring he dubbed Espiritu Santo Springs. The reputation of these “healing waters” grew, and by the early 1900s, Espiritu Santo water was being distributed worldwide. Today, people from all over the world travel to Espiritu Santo Springs to spend a day in luxurious relaxation at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa.

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Safety Harbor derives its name from the collective sigh of relief shared by the 18th century merchant seamen who anchored here. Piracy was the bane of the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. But when ship crews finally reached this protective anchorage, they believed themselves beyond the threat of seagoing brigands. Thus, the former Worth’s Harbor became known, colloquially, as “Safe Harbor,” then, formally, as “Safety Harbor.”

Despite the promise of restorative waters and protection from pirates, this area was not permanently settled until 1823, when a Frenchman, Count Odet Philippe, father of the Florida grapefruit, homesteaded Safety Harbor. Since then, the town has followed a different path than its more touristy neighbors, managing to maintain a small-town ambiance on a peninsula that thrives on the tourist trade. But, for in-theknow daytrippers who relish the quiet beauty and hometown atmosphere, Safety Harbor remains an ideal holiday hideaway.

3RD FRIDAY MUSIC SERIES

M

onthly block parties transform downtown Safety Harbor into a modern-day Rockwell print come to life. Pirate jugglers pause to twist balloons for wide-eyed children holding dripping ice cream cones as Boy Scouts and baseball teams sell drinks and snacks to raise money for summer trips. Teenagers shout encouragement to friends dangling from the climbing wall, while others flirt over cups of StarbucksÂŽ coffee. Local bands draw crowds toward downtown parks, while solo saxophone and six-string players jam on street corners.

Stroll down the road and the soundtrack changes. First rock, then jazz, blues and rock again. Somewhere, someone is belting out an 80s power ballad, while a pop-rock duo can be heard singing four decades of radio hits through the open door of the local pub.

Downtown shops bring their wares outside and local craft vendors share space on the sidewalk. Want something unique for the RV? Browse eclectic selections including photo-realistic hand-drawn portraits, incense and tropical paintings, as well as vinyl records and MLB baseball bats repurposed as groovy home decor. Hungry? Grab pizza by the slice, gyros any way you like ’em, salty-sweet kettle corn, ice cream cones and other mouthwatering culinary treats. Thirsty? Sample sangria, sip soda or slake your thirst with a cold beer or old-fashioned lemonade.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Main Street is closed to vehicles starting about 5 p.m. The festivities run until about 10 p.m.

Parking is available along Philippe Parkway and at the lots on Second and Third Avenues South.

55

SAFETY HARBOR

THE 2ND ANNUAL

We would like to thank our major sponsors: Tournament Sponsor

Diamond Sponsor

Greenberg Traurig Platinum Sponsors Auto Body Express Forest River Cintas®

US FoodsTM Crowe Horwath® Sullivan Foundation

Gold Sponsors Bank of the West® Madden Brand Agency Digital Hands

Monaco® Heartland Sayyah’s Cleaning Inc.TM

Silver Sponsors Aflac® Lippert Components Inc. Allied Barton® Michelin® Ally Financial Paul Carey AMC/Cornerstone United Roberts Printing Canon Business Solutions Stag-Parkway, Inc. Coast Distribution System Inc. Sundial Convergent Results

Tiffin Motorhomes Excalibur Financial Group, Inc. UnitedHealthcare® Horizon Transport Verizon Interstate Battery® Wade RV Jeffrey Allen Winnebago Industries Lightning RV Supply Merrill Lynch Creative Recycling

Through the generosity from all our sponsors, supporters and players, the Foundation raised over $105,000 for at-risk youth!

For more information, please visit us at LazydaysEmployeeFoundation.org, or like us on facebook.com/LazydaysEmployeeFoundation.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

Discover the difference!

Dutchmen and Lazydays provide our customers with innovative, MLH[\YL WHJRLK ÅVVYWSHUZ HUK L_JLW[PVUHS J\Z[VTLY ZLY]PJL :[VW I` 3Ha`KH`Z [VKH` HUK ZLL MVY `V\YZLSM ^O` +\[JOTLU OHZ ILLU [OL JOVPJL VM 9=LYZ MVY [OL WHZ[ `LHYZ ^^^ +\[JOTLU 9= JVT ^^^ SHa`KH`Z JVT

57

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WHIMZEYLAND

T

he trek to Safety Harbor was made complete with unexpected whimsical discoveries. SHAMc, the Safety Harbor Art and Music Center (safetyharborartandmusiccenter.com), was just preparing for their début opening. Artist Todd Ramquist was installing the pieces of picket fencing painted by community members and renowned artists. SHAMc was granted $50,000 by the Pepsi Refresh Project and raised an additional $120,000 to provide a place for children and adults to learn, experiment and share a world full of music and art.

Todd and Kiaralinda, a couple since seventh grade, also established another neighborhood icon — “Whimzeyland,” known affectionately within the community as “the bowling ball house.” The self-dubbed “Whimzey Twins” renovated their home with mostly recycled and repurposed goods that began by painting a few bowling balls. A sculpture of 200 bowling balls grew into a home that is a living, ever-changing piece

of art. The window framing is decorated with mosaics that bling, the landscape is brightened with water-bottle flowers and the gazebo is a magical silver space fabricated with fishpackaging bubble wrap. And, that is only the exterior; every interior surface, from the kitchen cabinets to the bathroom ceiling, has been redesigned with the spirit of the artists.

This may not be the style that you call home, but it is inspiring to see a vision of wonder and whimsy turn into a reality for all to admire in amazement.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Visit Whimzeyland at 1206 Third St. N., Safety Harbor, FL 34659. The home and studio is located one block north of Main Street, near the intersection of 12th Avenue and Okeechobee Street. During the daytime, visitors are free to wander the grounds. The artists travel during summer season.

59

“WHERE HEALING WATERS FLOW”

S

afety Harbor Resort & Spa is a modern day Mecca of refined rejuvenation that has been known as the place “where healing waters flow” for nearly five hundred years. In the early 1500s, Spanish explorers searching for the Fountain of Youth discovered the mineral springs here. Nearly four centuries later, the water was introduced to a worldwide audience, bottled and shipped as a healing tonic. Then, in 1945, Dr. Salem Baranoff founded Safety Harbor Spa, a “retreat for mind, body and spirit.”

Today the 50,000-square-foot spa and wellness center is recognized nationwide as one of America’s finest spa destinations. Schedule a pampering session or just set aside some time and enjoy the pools, mineral springs and fitness centers. Whether you are looking for “me” time or “us” time, the spa offers several enticing themed packages for daytrippers. The Fountain Grille restaurant offers delicious, moderately priced meal options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Prefer a light lunch? Get it poolside at the Tiki Bar. ■

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Regular daily deals offer specific spa services at reduced prices. Safety Harbor Resort and Spa is located at 105 N. Bayshore Drive in Safety Harbor. For more information or to book your package, visit safetyharborresort.com or call 888.237.8772.

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

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61

Always Check for

Operator Errors!

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.

S

am Matzen and his wife, Sheryl, have been full-time RVers for about seven years. During that time, they have managed to collect all sorts of helpful knowledge and important lessons about RV living. This tale covers one such learning experience, and it’s one Sam and Sheryl probably won’t forget anytime soon.

Every RVer discovers early in their RVing career that certain quirks are to be expected when you’re living in a home on wheels.

Whether you spent $10,000 on a travel trailer or $250,000 on a bus, you can’t expect your RV to function exactly like a traditional house (even though some might come close).

The Matzens were not blind to this truth when they purchased their 2005 Holiday Rambler Vacationer.

It was the right size and had all the right features, and the couple deemed it to be ideal for their full-time RVing needs. Of course, they also had the peace of mind that comes with living at Lazydays RV Campground in Tampa, within walking distance of the nation’s largest RV

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betterRVing.com | Summer 2012

dealership and service center, where they had access to all the technical help an RVer could want.

Within a couple months, the Matzens learned just how lucky they were to have those Lazydays service experts nearby. Now, to be fair, Sam is a technically savvy sort of guy. With a background in engineering and years of computer experience, he’s pretty hard to fool. The day that Sheryl came home to a dark RV interior, he was the first man on scene.

The story was simple.

Sheryl had left to go grocery shopping and returned to the RV juggling an armload of shopping bags. Upon entering the motorhome, she noticed that all of the 12-volt lights and appliances were off.

(For those of you who are new to RV lingo, that means essentially NOTHING was working.) Sheryl wasn’t sure why or how it happened; all she knew was that the coach’s interior sat in quiet darkness that afternoon.

When Sam got home, he was as puzzled as his wife.

Where on earth did all the 12-volt power go? Understanding the language of RV manufacturers, he dug out all of the Vacationer’s diagrams, charts and lists. Poring over them, Sam checked up and down the inside and outside of the RV. There seemed to be no plausible cause for this outage. Finally, in exasperation, the Matzens called in the big guns: the Lazydays Mobile Service team (fondly known as the “Road Ninjas”).

Upon their arrival at Sam’s RV, the Road Ninjas asked all the standard diagnostic questions: Are you plugged

into a power source? Are there any small animals chewing on the power source? Sam assured them he had checked for these possible causes.

As one technician walked inside, he stopped briefly in the doorway, moved ever so slightly … and suddenly the power came back on.

Surveying his now well-lit RV with wonder, Sam asked the tech how on earth he fixed the outage. With a cheesy grin, their hero shrugged his shoulders and said, “Well, I went ahead and turned your power switch ON.”

Finally ... the Matzens called in the big guns: the Lazydays Mobile Service Team (fondly known as the “Road Ninjas”).

Instantly, the puzzle pieces fell into place — it appeared Sheryl had inadvertently flipped the switch with one of the shopping bags she had been carrying into the RV. And in spite of checking for virtually every potential cause of the power “outage,” this was one possibility Sam had overlooked.

The lesson to be learned, dear reader, is one that we all eventually learn the hard way: Always check for operator errors. ■

63

THE FIRST LUXURY FAMILY BUNK HOUSE

THE NEW BLACKWOOD FLOORPLAN UPGRADES THE STANDARD BUNKHOUSE TO LUXURY LEVELS.

At first glance, the Blackwood 36BH makes a statement; two separate awnings covering over 22 feet of outdoor living space set the tone. Once inside, the eye is immediately drawn to the foyer bench with four coat hooks, residential bead board design and large storage doors. The kitchen offers over 14 feet of solid surface countertop, designed for entertaining family and friends. A private half bath situated near the entry door and second room makes it easy to entertain and keep the coach clean.

64 6 4

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A DIVISION OF REDWOOD RV CALL US AT

574-457-7800 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE

redwood-rv.com

©2012 BLACKWOOD RV

The 36BH is what we call a family bunk house because we filled it with family-friendly features and enough sleeping space for up to eight people.

THE FINAL FEATURES GREAT GEAR

|

TROUBLESHOOTIN’

|

WHAT'S HAPPENING

|

HOME COOKIN’

|

RV OPEN HOUSE

|

SPOTLIGHT

|

ASK STEVE

Classic Car Show July 14 & August 11 Page 70

65

GREAT GEAR From trusty standbys that are functional, to gear that’s indispensable, clever or cool — you need your gadgets. We understand. Here is a sampling of some of the gotta-have goods available from Lazydays Parts Store in Tucson, Ariz. to make your RV feel even more like home.

Fresh Quench Protect your RV from hard-water mineral buildup, extend the life of your appliances and improve the taste of your tap water with the Flow-Pur® RV-PRO 10,000 portable water softener. This highquality, competitively priced unit is simple to operate and uses ordinary table salt.

It’s the easy way to ensure clean, soft water wherever you go! $299

Perfect for Potable The handy Valterra® EZ Coil-N-Store hose is self-coiling and features quick-connect fittings for easy hookup.

Stretching to 25 feet, the hose recoils to 15 inches for storage. Brass fittings and wirereinforced ends prevent kinking and tangling, while the polyurethane casing guards against algae buildup. Importantly, it meets NSF® standards for drinking water safety. $31.95

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Multitasking Fuel Enhancer Made in the U.S.A. and designed specifically for RVs, GoodStuff RV fuel cleaner stabilizes fuel, cleans injectors, improves fuel quality, lubricates upper cylinders and offers ethanol protection. It enhances generator and carburetor performance too. One 18-ounce bottle treats 100 gallons of fuel. Choose from GoodStuff RV Gas or Good Stuff RV Diesel Treatments. $24.99

12-Volt Gourmet Popcorn, anyone? RoadPro® high-performance cookware is perfect for on-the-go tasty eats. The 12-Volt Portable Saucepan and Popcorn Popper is perfect for heating soups or stews, steaming hot dogs, popping popcorn and much more. It’s compact, yet has a generous cooking area, and conveniently plugs into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket. $40.95 See this item featured on p. 79.

Step It Up Need to access those high-up bunks and corners? The E-Z Foldz® Folding Step Stool is a colorful RV essential that tucks away anywhere.

This heavy-duty, skid-resistant step stool is easy to clean and bears a 300-pound weight capacity.

It folds from 9 inches to 2 inches for easy storage, and has a carrying handle for portability. $9.95

Chock Anything Lightweight, portable and durable,

Air Apparent MaxxAir® products will protect

these cute red chocks are hard to beat. They’ll slide right in behind your car, ATV or small trailer and will keep you feeling secure with their nice, wide ribs.

The concave side cups the wheel for solid, no-slip reinforcement. $2.95

your RV while keeping you comfortable, rain or shine. The standard MaxxAir vent cover features a super-tough, one-piece design and six-year limited warranty. Its exclusive zero-leak mounting system eliminates the need to drill holes in your RV’s roof surface. With MaxxAir, eliminating stuffy air and heat build-up is a breeze! $29.95

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

fixin’ jacks

BY FRED SMITH

T

he boys of summer are always ready for their next adventure under the sun. Fortunately for the rest of us, Ernie’s days of formfitting swimwear are a distant memory, like the receding images in his rear-view camera system.

Yet, like most passionate RVers, Ernie can’t hide his excitement when it’s time to hop in the driver's seat and captain his coach for the first trip of the new season (Fig. 1).

It appears something is a bit off-kilter in Ernie’s RV, and it’s not just his sense of summer style. As he stows his automatic jacks, Ernie notices that his coach is leaning heavily toward the passenger side (Fig. 2). Upon examining the jack’s control panel, Ernie can see a red light indicating that the jack on the front passenger side of the coach has not risen and remains on the pavement (Fig. 3). Before he examines the problem, Ernie is going to lower all of his coach’s jacks for safety.

It looks like Ernie’s going to put his beach towel to immediate use — not on the sand, but to protect him from the dirt and grime of the driveway as he heads under his coach to examine and fix his troubled jack (Figs. 4 and 5). When an RV sits for a prolonged period, particularly when it’s stored outdoors and exposed to the elements or if there’s saltwater nearby, moisture can collect on the jack’s cylinders. Over time, this moisture can build up and eventually turn to rust as the cylinder dries and the weather becomes more humid. Rust buildup on the jack’s cylinder

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can create enough of a barrier against the seal that it will impede the jack from properly raising.

The best way to solve the problem is to spray the cylinder with silicone lubricant (Fig. 6). Once Ernie has liberally sprayed the cylinder, he’s going to wait about ten to fifteen minutes to allow the spray to break down the rust buildup. Then he’ll wipe away the silicone and the rust (Fig. 7), leaving a smooth, clean cylinder that should allow the jack to properly raise into position.

After returning to the driver seat, Ernie is going to stow his automatic jacks. When he feels his RV lower into driving position and sees that all the jacks have properly risen (Fig. 8), he knows the problem has been solved and it’s time to head for the beach. As long he doesn’t have a flashback that involves European swimwear, a good time should be had by all this summer.

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 poised for summer fun.

Fig. 2: Ernie’s coach is leaning!

Fig. 3: The red light indicates one of the jacks has not lifted.

Figs. 4: Ernie heads under the coach to examine the faulty jack.

Figs. 5: Ernie inspects the faulty jack.

Fig. 6: Apply silicone spray to the jack’s cylinder to combat rust buildup.

Fig. 7: Wait required time (on product) before wiping off excess lubricant.

Fig. 8: All jacks have risen. Time for Ernie to hit the beach.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

Old-Fashioned Fun at Lazydays

Once a month from now until year end Where: Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa 6210 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584 Join Lazydays once a month for some good, old-fashioned fun with a 50s/60s flair. Choose your date, then call or make a reservation online.

To get all the information, including activities and entertainment for this event, visit LazydaysEvents.com or call 800.905.6627.

Tiffin Manufacturer Rally

October 12-14 Where: Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa 6210 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584 Calling all Tiffin RV lovers and anyone interested in the Tiffin way of life. This is your rally. This weekend is full of speakers from Tiffin Motorhomes, RV seminars, product demonstrations and more.

Reserve your campsite by calling 800.905.6627.

Pleasure-Way Manufacturer Rally

October 26-28 Where: Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa 6210 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584

Florizona Day/Weekend

August 31-September 03, 2012 Where: Lazydays RV Campground, Tucson 5151 South Country Club Rd., Tucson, AZ 85706 Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa 6210 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584 Florizona is a highly emotional state. Florizona Day is one jam-packed celebration for our two locations.

We love both places to the core; therefore, we bust out all the best of both worlds to create an RV party you won’t want to miss.

Keep a look out on LazydaysEvents.com for all the details or call 800.281.2399.

Everyone is welcome for this first-ever Pleasure-Way Manufacturer Rally at Lazydays, which is promising to be full of great things. Join fellow RVers for a look into the Pleasure-Way product and learn why they are a premier Class B motorhome manufacturer.

Call 800.905.6627 to reserve your spot.

Just a few more events to whet your appetite…

July 14 & August 11: Classic Car Show at Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa, FL

August 3-5: WooHoo! Weekend at Lazydays RV Campground, Tampa, FL

November 8-11: FRVTA Fall Show at Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa, FL

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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’

Latin Lasagna Recipe courtesy of Lazydays Friends & Family Rally 2012.

Ingredients 1/4

cup unsalted butter 1 medium onion, finely chopped Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 1 tbsp. ground cumin 1 3/4 cups low sodium chicken broth 1 cup milk 2 cups shredded pepper-jack cheese, divided 6 oz. raw Mexican chorizo (casings removed) 1 lb. ground turkey 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1 tsp. dried oregano 4 to 6 ripe, black-skinned plantains, halved horizontally and thinly sliced lengthwise Paprika to taste Chopped fresh cilantro leaves for serving

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Coat a 13"x9" baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

2. Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Cook onion until soft (about 5 minutes); season with salt and pepper. Stir in flour and cumin and cook about 1 minute. Gradually add broth, stirring to prevent lumps. Stir in the milk. Continue stirring until sauce thickens (8 to 10 minutes).

3. Add half of the grated cheese and stir until melted. Turn off the heat and place wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chorizo.

Cook and stir until brown (about 4 minutes). Add the turkey and continue to cook until both meats are browned. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, oregano, salt and pepper.

5. Over medium-high heat, saute the plantain slices until lightly brown on both sides.

6. Place one layer of plantains on the bottom of the baking dish; do not overlap. Place half of the meat mixture on top, and layer with half of the cheese sauce. Repeat layering with the remaining ingredients. The top two layers should be plantains topped with cheese and paprika.

7. Bake 45 to 60 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes before cutting and serving. ■

Visit betterRVing.com for more RV recipes.

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RV OPEN HOUSE

2012 Forest River Surveyor Sport Lightweight and ready for fun, the 2012 Surveyor Sport was designed to be towed by minivans, SUVs and light-duty pickup trucks — which means there is nothing keeping you and your family from hitting the road this summer. Don’t let the term “lightweight” fool you; there are plenty of amenities packed into this travel trailer. Two kitchens — one indoor and one out — make mealtime easy. This sport model is decked out with the 10th Anniversary Package, which provides features such as raisedpanel wooden cabinetry, an electric awning, the “E-Z Glide” dinette table and so much more. Visit Lazydays Tampa or Tucson to tour this gem!

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RV OPEN HOUSE

2012 CrossRoads Elevation Packed with storage and plenty of space, the 2012 CrossRoads Elevation toy hauler will impress you at first sight the moment you see it at Lazydays Tampa or Tucson. At your destination, you can easily unload your cargo thanks to the 8-foot door with dovetail transition. You can also convert the garage into a living and sleeping space with the Happijac® power bed lift, which features an electric bed lift with two sofas below. There’s also plenty of room for entertaining or unwinding in the living space with a comfortable wraparound sofa and large kitchen island with bar stools. The master bedroom sports a queen-size bed and two spacious built-in wardrobes.

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RV OPEN HOUSE

2012 Winnebago Aspect When you step into the 2012 Winnebago Aspect, you will be transported by this Class C's warm decor and residential-style amenities. The Aspect has a Ford E450 chassis with a 305HP 6.8L Super-Duty V10 SEFI Triton engine and TorqShift® 5-speed automatic transmission that will make you feel like you are handling a car on the road rather than a 32-foot RV. Winnebago has packed the Aspect with tons of creature comforts, such as a home theater sound system with receiver, DVD player, amplifier, five speakers, subwoofer and 26-inch LCD TV, as well as the OnePlace® systems center that allows you to control all the key systems from one convenient location.

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PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Jeff Oliverio Property Manager, Lazydays Tampa

How long have you worked at Lazydays?

I’ve been at Lazydays for five years.

Before that, I was a commercial painter and contractor for 10 years. One night, I was painting the Lazydays sales offices with my crew. They asked me if I would be interested in becoming the inhouse painter. I said, “Absolutely.”

What does the property manager do to provide a better customer experience?

I do whatever it takes. Fix whatever needs fixing and get everything on the property looking beautiful. I work behind the scenes. When I meet customers face-to-face, it’s usually to give them a ride back to their coach or speak with them when we are in the Café.

Why do they call you “The Governor”?

It’s because I’m a people person. There are times I go out of my way to chitchat with customers. That’s why they call me “The Governor” — some say it seems like I’m running for office. But all it takes is five minutes to make a customer’s day.

What’s your favorite thing about working at Lazydays? There is something new

every day. Each day is different, and you never know what’s going to happen. It keeps you on your toes. For me, working at Lazydays is not like putting in eight hours and going home. I have fun with my work. Without fun, what’s the point?

What have you learned since coming to Lazydays? I came to Lazydays as a painter.

That was my strong suit. Since then, I’ve learned much more, including plumbing and electrical. It’s amazing how much I’ve learned in five years. They depend on me to fix things, and to do what I can to keep the property running smoothly.

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

Everyone here knows all about me.

That’s my nature. I’ve been into martial arts for 20 years, and I teach at the rec center a couple of nights a week. It keeps me in shape. I don’t like to brag about it, so it might surprise some people. ■

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

I have a 2011 r•pod Model 177 that I am going to tow with a 2011 Subaru® Tribeca and factory trailer towing package. What is the best brake control I can put on it? There are two different types of brake controls:

We have a 2008 Monaco Camelot. The signal for our bedroom TV has stopped working for cable/local antenna; however, we have a rooftop satellite signal on the front TV that is fine. How can we find the source of the problem?

timer-activated and pendulum-style (inertia-activated).

I recommend that you use the pendulum brake control, because it gives you a more accurate response to your braking needs. A timer control increases trailer braking the longer you have your foot on the brake. However, this is not always the case, as in stop-and-go traffic. The pendulumtype controller increases trailer braking as you increase the tow-vehicle braking. After purchasing and installing the correct brake control, proper setup must be performed. The best way to tell if you have your system adjusted correctly is if you cannot feel the brakes working; in other words, no push from weak brakes and no pull or jerking from brakes hitting to hard.

If the front TV is working, then the problem is likely due to your splitters or video selector box. There is one antenna booster that receives an amplified signal from the antenna.

That signal is sent to either a splitter or a video selector.

The video selector is a box with several switches to choose what signal — antenna, cable, satellite or DVD — is sent to each TV. The most common problems with TV reception are loose cable connections. Splitters and video selectors are usually mounted in the front overhead cabinet where the antenna, cable, satellite and DVD wiring is found.

We are planning to purchase a fifth wheel. Can you help us determine how large of an RV we can pull with our tow vehicle? There are a

number of online resources where you can find tow capacity charts; check out www.trailerlife.com/ trailer-towing-guides for downloadable guides by year. These types of charts will show you the weight limits for pulling and stopping with a certain model of tow vehicle. It is very important not to exceed the manufacturer’s listed tow capacities.

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What is the difference between fiberglass and rubber RV roofs? The biggest difference you’ll notice between

a rubber roof and a fiberglass roof is in relation to their maintenance. You can’t use petroleum products or citrus cleaners on a rubber roof; you should instead use a product like Spic and Span® and a medium-bristle brush and a Dicor self-leveling sealant. Fiberglass roofing can be cleaned with the same detergent you use on the sides of the RV and sealed with a self-leveling sealant. ■ How can I get the quickest response to my questions?

We have technical experts who will respond to your questions at www.facebook.com/betterRVing. Or send your tech questions to insider@betterRVing.com.

RV SERVICE WITH A SPLASH OF FUN! The kids are out of school and you’re making plans for all sorts of RV fun this summer, so you’d best make sure that your RV is ready for the road by bringing it to Lazydays for servicing.

While our service experts check out and repair your RV, you can check out our campground. Take a swim in our beautiful screened pool. Play some tennis, horseshoes, ping pong or have a poolside lunch at Exit 10, our RV Pub and Restaurant.

Call us at 866.531.6820 or go to LazydaysService.com to schedule an appointment and when you come in for service remember to bring your bathing suit!

RV SERVICE

A craftsman for every need LazydaysService.com | I-4 at Exit 10

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5000-0712

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)