CELEBRATE
CANADA 150
Publications Mail Sales Agreement #40064277 • May/June 2017 • Published and printed in Canada W
Explore historic sites coast to coast
FULL-TIME RVing
One couple’s new adventure
TEST DRIVES
Keystone AVALANCHE and NISSAN Titan
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TIPS on summer driving, BUYING new or pre-owned, and visiting MINNESOTA
May/June 2017
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The all new Aktiv. Make life more adventurous.
Go Aktiv...Go Hymer. 1.844.GO HYMER (464.9637)
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Canadian RVing
in this issue May/June 2017
28
22
Halifax Citadel Photo Credit: Parks Canada
12 Features
Canadian History from Coast to Coast..............22 Explore Canada’s historic sites as it celebrates its 150th birthday. Will You Full-Time RV with Me? .....................28 This couple gave up everything, hit the road, and haven’t looked back. Land of 10,000 Lakes............................................32 Work your way across scenic Minnesota. Spring 2017 Dealer Events Calendar................10
Getting Technical
2017 Keystone Avalanche 320RS................12 Nissan Full Line Intro..................................16 Purchasing an RV..........................................18 Sharing the Road...........................................20
In Each Issue
Editorial.............................................................4 Mail Bag............................................................6 Money Sense..................................................35 Recipe..............................................................36 Camping News..............................................38 Recall Notices................................................42
Advertising
Marketplace....................................................49 Classified and Advertisers’ List..................50
On The Cover It’s Canada’s birthday! Check out some of our favourite sites. Photo Credit: Go RVing Canada. May/June 2017 • RV gazette
3
editor’s notebook
Canadian RVing
Editor Cover & Graphic Design Test Editor Staff Writer
Theresa Rogers Karen Hannivan Howard Elmer PowerSports Media Hermione Wilson
Contributors Doug Barnes Ern Pennell Phyllis Briercliffe Deborah Rankine Adam Doolittle Barry Sanderson Ginny Eichler Bob & Pat Sanderson Explore Minnesota Martin Schell Jim Lister Bill van der Valk Martha Knight Kate McCallum Marlene and Bill Webb
Advertising Sales Chris Forbes cforbes@dvtail.com Tel: (905) 707-3516 Fax: (905) 886-6615 Beth Kukkonen bkukkonen@dvtail.com Tel: (905) 707-3506 Fax: (905) 886-6615
Administrative Office P.O. Box 800, 328 Mill Street, Unit 11, Beaverton, ON L0K 1A0 Tel: (705) 426-1419 Fax: (705) 426-1403 Toll-Free: 1-800-999-0819 E-mail: info@rvgazette.com Website: www.rvgazette.com Newsstand Price: $5.25/issue Subscriptions One year: Canadian subscriptions for 2017: $22.00 + GST/HST U.S. subscriptions: $40.00/International: $60.00 (Canadian funds) The RV gazette is published by the Explorer RV Club. For the year of 2017, Explorer RV Club members pay the annual subscription rate, plus applicable taxes, when they remit their Explorer RV Club membership dues. Individual subscriptions are purchased directly through the office of the RV gazette, Subscription Department, P.O. Box 800, Beaverton, ON L0K 1A0. All submissions to the RV gazette are welcome. A self-addressed, stamped envelope should accompany each submission if return of material is required. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of artwork, photographs or manuscripts. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising. The RV gazette, its publisher and affiliate companies do not assume responsibility for any claims or statements made by its advertisers or columnists. No reproduction or redistribution, in whole or in part, of this magazine shall take place without prior written consent of the publisher. 2017 Explorer RV Club www.explorer-rvclub.com A division of Wayfarer Insurance Brokers Limited
Canadian publications mail sales agreement #40064277 Postage paid in Toronto ISSN 1484-1339 Published and Printed in Canada Next issue: July/August 2017 Newsstand distribution by Disticor. Call Toll-Free 1-800-668-7724 for retail outlets. 4
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Canada 150 on Tour
L
ast issue I told you about some of my first camping memories. My parents always said we should see our own country first so consequently, all of those trips were two-week journeys headed somewhere different every time. Rest stops and visits were built-in along the way and involved many of Canada’s historic sites and points of interest. In honour of Canada’s 150th birthday this year, we’ve done the work for you! Follow our writer, Hermione, as she takes you through some of Canada’s many important historic sites, coast to coast (p. 22). Of course, admission to the sites is free this year in honour of our nation’s birthday; what better time is there to tour your own country than now? We also introduce you to Adam and Kate. Just over a year ago, this young couple gave up their radio careers for a life on the road and they’ve never looked back. They too, take us on a journey across Canada, from PEI to where they are now located in Tofino. I don’t want to give too much away so turn to p. 28! If you want to venture south beyond our borders, try Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, as it’s known. Many of Minnesota’s most scenic spots have been preserved as state parks, and most of the 75 state parks and recreation areas have campgrounds with tent and RV sites. Or, stay in one of the state’s approximately 500 privately operated campgrounds, most of which are located beside a lake or river. No matter where you choose to go, may you have many lasting memories as a result. Theresa Rogers trogers@dvtail.com
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mail bag DYour Letters CELEBRATE
CANADA 150
Publications Mail Sales Agreement #40064277 • May/June 2017 • Published and printed in Canada W
Explore historic sites coast to coast
FULL-TIME RVing
One couple’s new adventure
TEST DRIVES
Keystone AVALANCHE and NISSAN Titan
+
TIPS on summer driving, BUYING new or pre-owned, and visiting MINNESOTA
May/June 2017
$5.25
www.rvgazette.com
Cold Water I am wondering if any member knows how to fix or remedy the problem with my shower. After soaking myself, I shut off the water flow at the shower head. After lathering myself, I turn shower head on and get cold water for a short time. Is there a way to replumb or do something so we don’t get that short surge of cold water? John Clark Sharon, ON Feeling the Love We enjoy your magazine very much! Ralph and Lucille Griffiths Napanee, ON Tow/Haul Mode I have read and reread your article in the September/October 2015 RV gazette on the importance of trailer brakes and a couple of questions come to mind. Should a person use “Tow/ Haul mode” all of the time when towing a fifth wheel or only when climbing or descending a hill? How does a person know how much braking force to apply to the trailer brakes? Is there a proper setting? When should I increase or decrease my trailer brake settings? Ron Bradfield 6
The place for your comments, questions, and hints.
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Mr. Bradfield, Tow/haul mode changes the shift points (electronically) in your transmission to deal with the extra weight of a trailer. By keeping the RPMs higher and holding gears longer it provides more power. This mostly comes into play on hills and during quick acceleration. So, to your question - as the system is self-adjusting based on demand, just leave it on whenever you’re towing; there is no harm. Just remember, most brands will shut it off each time the truck engine stops so you have to manually re-engage it when you start the truck. When it comes to setting trailer brakes, I’ll offer you what I do. On a flat surface, I let the truck roll at idle and I use the auxiliary trailer brake activator only to stop the truck and trailer. What I am looking for here is, first, I don’t want the brakes to lock up. If they do, I adjust the setting down and repeat. If they feel weak and roll too far, I adjust the gain up. When I feel a firm, steady pull, I set the controller and I’m ready to go. Happy Trails, Howard J. Elmer The Maritimes are Calling Kudos to Marianne Edwards for her excellent two-part part piece on “Five Weeks in the Maritimes”. My wife and I have been out east twice and these articles are luring us back there again. Well done. Thoroughly enjoyable read. Robin Budgen Brighton, ON Highs and Lows Our Ram 2500 is four inches higher in the rear causing our high beams to cover lower than normal. We haven’t towed with this vehicle yet
and hubby is sure they will work better with the load on the hitch, which I’m sure is right. My question is, do we have to tolerate poor lighting when we aren’t towing? Nancy Moisan Tweed, ON Mrs. Moisan, I understand your concern over the aim of the lights, however, I am curious about the four inches of height difference front to back. That is not normal so it begs the question why. Have you added rear suspension or airbags? If the truck is not modified, I’d want it checked front to back to determine why it’s sagging. If that condition was corrected then you’d no longer have a problem with your lights. Once again, a four-inch lift at the rear is not normal. Howard J. Elmer Getting Hitched Dear Mr. Elmer I own a 2009 Trail Lite Crossover 210 QB, 2,850 lbs dry and approx. 4,000 lbs loaded. I was pulling it with a 2004 Dodge Dakota V6. Of course, I needed a weight distributing hitch to keep the Dakota’s rear bumper from dragging on the ground. I will now be pulling it with a 2017 Dodge Ram 2500 HD 4 X 4 with a factory lift kit. I’m sure this truck will handle the tongue weight of the trailer on its own but will I still need the weight distribution hitch for the sway control? Any advice you can provide on this would be appreciated. Thank you, Denis Fredette
May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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mail bag Mr. Fredette, That’s quite an upgrade towing-wise. Nice truck. Of course, as you say, the 2500 will handle the weight, but you pose an interesting question. Do you still need the equalizer? The first thing that occurs to me is that the added wheelbase of the 2500 will itself slow any tendency to swing the trailer and the added stiffness of the truck frame and suspension will take out any back-end looseness. However, a weight distribution hitch will further impede the natural tendency of trailers to swing back and forth so it really comes down to how much a little swing bothers you. This is a very personal choice. Me, I’m OK with some swing as it doesn’t stress me and I don’t react to it by trying to counter steer. For others, any swing is too much. I apologize if this answer is not a hard yes or no, but I do believe that we all have a certain comfort level when towing and there’s no right answer. I’d certainly suggest you do a few runs without the equalizer and that should decide the issue for you. Happy Trails, Howard J. Elmer
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Send your letters to: Mail Bag, c/o RV gazette, P.O. Box 800, Beaverton, ON L0K 1A0 or e-mail to: mailbag@rvgazette.com Please include your name and location (city/town, province/state). Due to the volume of mail we receive, any mail that doesn’t include the proper identification might not be answered. A telephone number is optional on e-mail queries but should be included with letters sent through regular post or by fax. Thank you. Letters may be edited for space and/or content.
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RV gazette • May/June 2017
PRODUCTS
KING Jack Named Exclusive OTA Antenna for some Keystone Models
KING, known for its over-the-air TV antennas in the luxury fifth wheel segment, is bringing its industryleading Jack antenna to two more Keystone travel-trailer series. Based in Goshen, IN, Keystone is one of the industry’s largest producers of recreational vehicles, including travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers. The KING Jack will now come standard as the exclusive overthe-air (OTA) digital HDTV antenna on all new East Coast orders of the Springdale and all new orders of the Summerland. The KING Jack offers drivers of recreational vehicles a wealth of features and advantages, including a wider reception range, superior UHF reception, easy antenna rotation, and a compact, aerodynamic design that is 70 per cent smaller and requires less roof space than traditional RV antennas.
AMSOIL Launches
Reformulated Metal Protector AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector has been reformulated to offer improved performance as a corrosion inhibitor. Its quickdrying, long-lasting formula protects metal surfaces that are exposed to the damaging effects of salt, moisture and chemical corrosion. It displaces water and resists dirt to promote longer equipment life. AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector is ideal for steel, iron, aluminum, brass, copper, and other metal surfaces frequently subjected to water, dirt or road salt. It is suitable for use as an automotive or trailer undercoat, on spare tire carriers, battery terminals, hinges, handheld tools, and more. AMSOIL HeavyDuty Metal Protector is available in 16-ounce spray cans and delivers a consistent spray on hard-to-reach places, leaving a dry, long-lasting, wax-like film that does not slide off.
Your Opinion Matters 2017 READER SURVEY Live From April 17 – May 5, 2017 Help us create the gold standard in RV publications by taking part in our 2017 Reader Survey, and you could
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Drive over to www.rvgazette.com to take part!
May/June 2017 • RV gazette
9
Dealer Events Calendar Spring 2017
Alberta_________________________ Date: All Season
Western RV Country
61 East Lake Ramp, Airdrie Tel: (403) 912-2634 Fax: (403) 912-2638 Website: westernrvcountry.com E-mail: Airdrie@westernrvcountry.com Event: 10% savings all season Date: May 4-7
Racetrack RV
262055 Balzac Blvd, Balzac Tel: (403) 226-4444 Fax: (403) 226-4449 Website: www.racetrack-rv.com E-mail: matt@recetrack-rv.com Times: 10am-8pm Event: Winner’s Circle Blowout Event
store on parts and accessories as well as discounted finance rates for your perfect trailer. Come on out and see what’s new for 2017 and don’t forget to try mom’s homemade doughnuts! Date: April 29-30
McPhail’s of Harriston
6332 County Rd. 109 RR3, Harriston Tel: (888) 665-2025 Fax: (519) 338-2770 Website: www.mcphails.on.ca E-mail: mcphails@wightman.ca Times: 9am-5pm Event: Open House. RV and parts sale, entertainment and refreshments. Date: May 6
Owasco RV Centre
204 Patillo Rd., Tecumseh Tel: (519) 727-3400 Fax: (519) 727-8720 Website: www.leisuretrailers.com E-mail: sales@leisuretrailers.com Event: Celebrating 60 Years in Business
2000 Champlain Ave., Whitby Tel: (905) 579-7573 Fax: (905) 579-5802 Website: www.owascorv.com E-mail: rvsales@owasco.com Times: 9am-5pm Event: Special pricing on all new and pre-owned RVs, special financing rates, up to 25% off RV rental rates, huge RV parts garage sale, we pay the HST on all RV parts.
Date: April 20-23
Date: May 27-28
4815 Bank St., Ottawa Tel: (613) 822-2268 Fax: (613) 822-2291 Website: www.ottawacamping.ca E-mail: info@ottawacamping.ca Times: Thurs 9am-8pm, Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm Event: Annual Open House. Dartboard discounts, door prizes, charity BBQ, specials throughout the
8431 Highway 9, Caledon Tel: (905) 880-4921 Fax: (905) 880-1995 Website: www.leisuretime.ca E-mail: information@leisuretime.ca Times: Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 11am-3pm Event: Celebrating 50 years serving camping families. Trailers, parts and accessories sales, food, specials for camping in our campground.
Ontario_________________________ Date: All Year Celebration
Leisure Trailer Sales
Ottawa Camping Trailers Ltd.
10
RV gazette • May/June 2017
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2017
Keystone
AVALANCHE
320RS
By Howard J. Elmer
While any travel trailer is, strictly speaking, living space, some units will make longer trips more comfortable than others. The Avalanche series of fifth wheels from Keystone falls into this category. These trailers, often referred to as “full-timers’ units”, are built so that you could comfortably spend all winter, or all year for that matter, on the road. Designing a trailer to meet such a benchmark is no easy task if you consider that many full-timers have replaced a house and all its contents with a rolling retirement home. This puts a great deal of pressure on a trailer builder to provide the comforts of home in 400 (or so) square-feet. This was my mindset when I picked up the Avalanche for a test late last fall. This series is made up of eight models varying in size from 34.5 to 40 feet. My test unit, new for 2017, is a floorplan designated 320RS and I towed it with a new Duramaxpowered Chevy Silverado 3500. This truck (seen in the photos), was the winner of our HD one-ton segment during this year’s Canadian Truck King Challenge. If you’d like to know more about the truck and the fuel economy results we recorded, visit www.canadiantruckkingchallenge.ca. After a drive through the countryside northeast of Toronto, I stopped and opened up the slides in the 12
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Avalanche. There are three; twin opposing slides in the main body and one in the bedroom. I noted the width of the trailer first (it’s a wide body at 100 inches closed) and also the height of the inside space at well over seven feet. The clearance in the slides alone is 6’8”. Even the entry door is 6’4” tall and 30 inches wide. In fact, the trailer has an overall outside height of more than 13 feet. This is actually a good way to increase inside space as tall walls make for taller cabinets and also lift the basement storage for more room and easier access. Tall walls also mean the chance to install bigger windows and the Avalanche has them. The frameless automotive style insulated tinted windows are as large as 60x48 inches. I particularly like the view from the free-standing dinette where the window starts at table height and reaches the ceiling. Because full-timers travel in all weather conditions throughout the year, all Avalanche trailers are built to what Keystone calls “Therma-Shield 37” standards. This makes the Avalanche four-season capable. Independent testing by the Dometic Corporation was conducted to measure the consistency of the interior temperature from one end of the trailer to the other. They found it was within 3° F when the thermostat
was set at 74° F and the outside temperature was -4° F. This standard also includes enclosed, heated tanks and the temperature throughout the pass-through storage areas was recorded at 58° F during this test. While I imagine most owners of a unit like this will be a couple, guests are accommodated with a sofa sleeper that folds out at the rear of the trailer when need be. The opposing slides in the body of the trailer create a huge living space when open. The passenger side houses a pair of reclining theatre seats opposite the flat screen TV over the electric fireplace which is housed in the opposing slide. Beside it are the kitchen appliances. When it comes to the kitchen, I always think that I’d want to have as close to what I have at home in the way of amenities. Avalanche provides an 18-cubic foot refrigerator, full-size microwave and four-burner stove with an oven. There is even a built-in wine rack over the microwave. For storage there are the drawers and cupboards you’d expect, however, there is also a full-size pantry with a hard door. Hardwood cabinetry throughout the Avalanche features hidden hinges and quite a bit of glass. That pantry door has an opaque insert as does the wall-mounted curio cabinet and tinted glass in the cabinets over the TV. The central kitchen island in the trailer is fixed and is the home to the sink and water faucet. This location makes it a focal point and the main prep surface that I’m sure will be in use constantly. The tall ceiling here also allows handsome hanging fixtures and a ceiling fan, not to mention a powered vent. House lighting is LED and nicely flush mounted. This kitchen space is bracketed with a solid wood, freestanding four-seat dinette in the opposite slide. The master bedroom in the nose of trailer is spacious and has good height. The 70 x 80-inch king bed in this master has its head in the third slideout. This opens up walking space at the foot of the bed and also provides
small windows on each side of the bed – nice for a cross-breeze. Opposite the bed is the second TV which is built into a chest with a stone countertop. The front corner of the bedroom has a handsome cabinet dedicated to a washer/dryer. This bedroom also gets its own sliding door bathroom access, while a second hard door is off the hallway for daily or guest use. The bathroom is large, however, the size of the shower is still just a bit surprising. This floor-to-ceiling moulded stall has an integrated seat and ledge. Above, May/June 2017 • RV gazette
13
is a full skylight and the translucent glass shower door makes for a bright space whether open or closed. The sink is large, however, the counter is not. There is a full mirrored medicine cabinet and a built-in two-door linen closet. The toilet is porcelain and set on an angle in the corner providing lots of elbow room on either side. Spend a lot of time on the road and storage becomes a prime concern. Working my way through the trailer, I found a wide variety of spaces, most of which are well designed into the fixed cabinetry including under the lifting master bed. So while this is to be expected, under the unit in the basement you’ll find more than 145 cubic feet of space. Keystone has installed nonskid rubber diamond plate flooring in there. Doors are large and feature weather seals and “slam” latches. A full-timer typically spends weeks and months parked, however they also tend to drive very long distances to get to and from their destinations. This means the towing characteristics of a unit like the Avalanche are important. Always remember a minor irritant on a weekend road trip can turn into a headache-inducing torment over several thousand miles.
Specifications Keystone Avalanche 320RS GVWR: ..................... 15,000 lb Dry weight: .............. 11,530 lb Length:....................... 25’10” Width:........................ 8’4” Height:....................... 13’2” Fresh water:............. 66 gal Black water:.............. 49 gal Grey water:.............. 83 gal LPG:........................... 60 lb Price as tested: ....... $55,595* *Note: with the current volatility of the Canadian/U.S.A. exchange rate, this price could easily change. Test unit provided courtesy of Camping in Style, Whitby, ON. 14
RV gazette • May/June 2017
To this end, I first looked over a couple of features that will make the towing of this trailer easy and comfortable. It goes without saying that towing 36feet of trailer demands as much maneuverability as possible. How much you’ve got is determined by the pin and nose design of the unit. In the case of the Avalanche, the pin is set far forward and the shape of the nose is tapered. According to Keystone, this offers as much as 30 per cent better turning radius than some comparable units. This is unit also uses the Trailair Rota-Flex pin box, which featured rubberized shock absorbers and a pivoting mechanism that soaks up the rough pitching of the trailer rather than transmitting it to the truck. I also noted there is also a backup mirror and light in the unit’s nose, both of which are helpful. The other factor in a comfortable ride is the suspension and tires. A look at the axles and Dexter suspension on the Avalanche reveals upgraded 7,000-pound axles that are greaseable, have bronze bushings and bump absorption. The nitrogen-filled tires are on eight-spoke bright rims and feature 15-inch “G” load radial tires that support more weight than the “E” range tires found on many units in this size class. My test unit was fitted with the optional “one touch” auto level system. With six legs, this unit plants the trailer. It’s all operated from one location behind a locked exterior door. The jacks operate in pairs, so there is no worry of twisted or bent shafts due to uneven lifting. When it comes to ride, the trailer design certainly has a lot to do with it, but then so does the truck. The Chevy 3500 had no problem with this load and its suspension was the other half of the great ride equation. All in all, a fine tow – with a really nice trailer - both out on a sunny fall day. Makes me want to retire right about now. Howard J. Elmer of PowerSports Media Services is a Canadian automotive journalist, truck writer and RVing specialist.
PROTECTING YOUR PASSION SINCE 1978
May/June 2017 • RV gazette
15
Nissan Full Line Intro
By Howard J. Elmer
Nissan branded its all-new Titan launch as the “Year of the Truck”. It’s an appropriate title for a roll-out that has pretty much taken a full year. The company started with the big dog last winter – the Titan XD diesel-powered pickup. It followed with the XD gas engine last spring and the regular Titan was revealed in the summer. In November, I attended an event that brought the entire Titan family together, in northeastern Quebec. Indeed, what Nissan presented is a family. Wisely, the company realizes that to be relevant in the truck business you must offer a variety of iron, just like the competition does. And to be really relevant in the North American truck business, you have to offer an “American” truck. This generation of Titan (just forget there ever was an old Titan) is designed in California, engineered in Michigan, built in Mississippi and powered by engines out of Indianapolis. Nissan now “gets” what our truck culture is and has jumped in with both feet. Now comes the hard part – convincing buyers. For now, Nissan wants to be considered when shopping and that’s why it’s working hard to provide choices across the line. Every truck buyer has a job list in mind when they go shopping – a list that varies by region, occupation and climate. Being able to build trucks to match those specific needs is why companies like Ford, GM and Dodge prosper. By comparison, what Nissan has brought out so far can only be called a good start. But, you have to start somewhere. 16
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Nissan does not want to call its Titan XD a 2500-series truck. It would rather buyers thought of it as a “heavy half-ton”. But looking at the gross weight, it does fall into the 3/4-ton category. Either way, the XD features the Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel which will comfortably tow 12,000 pounds, and that is the point. In fact, the emphasis with this truck is on towing, utility features and driving aids, including an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Tow/Haul Mode with Downhill Speed Control, and a Trailer Light Check system that allows one-person hook-up operation. The diesel is mated to a heavy-duty six-speed Aisin automatic transmission and the factory offers two available hitches, including an integrated gooseneck hitch engineered into the frame and easily accessible in the bed. A fifth wheel hitch is coming. As for the cargo bed itself – whether it’s the XD or the Titan – Nissan has paid special attention to this, the business end of truck. It starts with a spray-in bed liner, damped tailgate, under lip LED lighting and a unique rail and sliding tie-down system. Nissan even offers in-bed storage boxes that lock, however, they aren’t permanent. Five screws will remove them to free up space when needed. The other version of the XD I drove in Quebec was powered by the re-engineered 5.6L V8 gas engine. This new version makes 390hp and 394 lbft of torque. It’s an aluminium block with 32 valves,
direct injection and is naturally aspirated. It is coupled to a new seven-speed automatic transmission and is at least 20 per cent more fuel efficient than its predecessor. Towing capacity on the XD drops to 9,300 pounds with the gas motor, but then the price also drops by around $7,000. Again it’s about choice. To trim out the XD trucks, there is a choice of five packages, the top being the Platinum Reserve and the off-road version is called the Pro-4X. Unless you’re buying a straight work truck, these two packages will no doubt be the most popular. Another lesson Nissan has learned from Detroit is that truck buyers like the electronic and creature comforts; the more the better these days, it seems. The last offensive in this rollout is the release of the new Titan. The Titan is different from the XD. First, it is a half-ton and does not try to be anything else. It rides on a different chassis and is about 15 inches shorter than the XD. It does not offer diesel (though it also sports the 5.6L V8) and will be available in a two-door regular cab. This is how the family grows. The one piece of the pie that is currently missing is a V6 offering. Nissan says there will be one, it’s just a little behind getting it ready for production. Once the V6 and regular cab options are moving down the assembly line, Nissan will have the opportunity to offer sales to fleet and government buyers. For private buyers though, this regular Titan will most often be purchased as a crewcab and with the gas motor offers 9,300 pounds of towing and 1,610 pounds of payload capacity. This far into the launch of Titan, I won’t spend words talking about the look of the truck – you’ve likely seen it now multiple times. What I will say is that I’ve had countless conversations with truck guys about its sheet metal over the past eight months and
I haven’t had a single negative comment on the look. From an aesthetics-only point of view, Nissan has nailed it. Past the holy trinity of the truck (look, power, load) Nissan has spent considerable time on the electronics. All of them contribute to safety, and some to making the jobs you’ll do with your truck easier. This is the stuff you can’t see but which will make your overall ride and tasks better. These driving aids include RearView Monitor and Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection (MOD), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Front and Rear Sonar System, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). All these are constants for the truck, but when hooking up trailers, they add another dimension of safety and one-man-operation convenience. The Around View Monitor (AVM) gives a unique “bird’s eye” view of the surrounding area from front, rear and side cameras. The MOD alerts the driver to hazards and includes an on-screen notification and warning chime. As I mentioned earlier, Nissan gets that customers want their trucks tough and their interiors soft. To that end, it offers interiors that are comparable to any others currently on the market. For instance, in the top-of-the line Platinum Reserve, you’ll find leatherappointed seats with “Platinum Reserve” branding, heated steering wheel, chrome exhaust tailpipe finishers, 20x7.5-inch dark chrome-like wheels, driver and passenger heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, two-tone paint, dark chrome door handle, leather-wrapped steering wheel with a wood insert, wood instrument panel finishers, leather-wrapped shift knob with a dark-painted trim ring, and dark chromeaccented vent knobs and cup holder trim. As I said, they’ve learned. Pricing for the 2017 Titan Crew Cab (gas) base model starts at $44,650 while the XD version of the same adds $2,000. Titan XD diesel Crew Cab starts at $52,400. These are the listed MSRP, however, aggressive incentives are currently being offered. Howard Elmer of PowerSports Media Services is a Canadian automotive journalist, truck writer and RVing specialist. May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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Purchasing an RV MAKING THE DECISION TO GO NEW OR PRE-OWNED
By Go RVing Canada
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RV gazette • May/June 2017
Spring always has us thinking about the open road and taking in the beauty of the Canadian landscape. With Canada’s 150th birthday underway, RVing is the best way to travel across the country to truly experience the differences each province and territory offers. It is now more affordable than ever to get into an RV. Whether you’re looking for a pop-up trailer, which starts at around $10,000 – and features many amenities that families want, including fridges, sinks and more – or if you’re looking for a fully motorized option, there is an RV for almost every budget. In 2017, Canadians are expected to stay close to home for their leisure time, rather than taking a vacation outside the country. We know that
families today are busier than ever before, and RVing is a natural solution that allows them to get away from the everyday and spend quality time together. When you consider that the cost of traditional cottages are typically out of reach for many Canadians, it’s clear why RVing is growing in popularity. If you’re ready to make an RV purchase, whether it’s your first go around or time to upgrade, your first stop should be a local RV dealer. There are some key benefits to purchasing RVs for sale through a trusted RV dealer. Online research is a great start, but you really need to see, feel and touch an RV before you know if it’s the right one. Once you decide that you’re ready to jump into the RV lifestyle, the biggest question you’ll want to ask yourself it whether you want to buy a preowned or new RV. The biggest advantage to buying a pre-owned RV is price, however, a new RV will feature the latest and greatest in design, no one else will have ever lived in your RV, and the mileage won’t be racked up. Before deciding which route is best for you, ask yourself the following questions: • How will you use it? • When will you use it? • Who else will use it? • Where will you use it? If you’re a veteran who’s found their RV groove, then buying a new RV might be your next step. If this is your first RV purchase or you’re still finding your path, buying used might be your best bet. You’ll be able to get an RV that’s only a couple of years old, with tons of features, at a much more affordable price while you figure out your RV style. To find an RV dealer near you, visit gorving.ca.
BEFORE BUYING A NEW OR USED RV, go through the following checklist:
3 Does it feel like home? Make sure the floor plan fits your lifestyle. Is the bed large enough? Are the kitchen and eating accommodations suitable to your needs? Is there enough closet space? Are the windows where you want them? Can you comfortably use the bathroom? Is the shower stall ideal for singing?
3 Spend the night You shouldn’t feel uncomfortable making the request and most RV dealers will understand the need for trying out the RV before purchasing. While staying, try out all the features. Is it a dream come true?
3 Bring a friend If you know an experienced RVer, ask them to tag along. Someone who’s been driving an RV for a few years will have some insight into the whole process.
3 Get it inspected If you’re buying used, ask a professional to give your RV the once-over, checking for leaks and any other potential areas of concern. Take it to a qualified service RV dealer as they might see problems you’ve overlooked.
May/June 2017 • RV gazette
19
Sharing the Road
UNDERSTANDING TRUCKS MEANS A SAFER ROAD FOR EVERYONE By Howard J. Elmer
For many RVers who will find themselves in heavy truck traffic this season, it can be frightening. If you’d prefer to be comfortable around trucks, rather than nervous, then take this cure: a dose of information with a chaser of common sense. As RVers, we share a similar set of road manners with trucks. We both have a large vehicle with considerable weight that we have to move as smoothly, efficiently and safely as possible. Now consider that a large tractor trailer can weigh (loaded) upwards of 100,000 pounds. Rather than taking this as a frightening figure, let’s change this fact to an image. Think of a calm elephant, slowly lumbering about its business. An elephant, which can be frightening because of its size, certainly doesn’t come across that way because of its movements. It walks slowly and steadily with a measured, easy gait. In fact, in all the National Geographic film footage I’ve seen, most of an elephant’s movements are almost predictable. A tractor trailer behaves much the same way. That driver is trained to make planned, slow movements. He will try to keep a steady speed and stay in the same lane. He will accelerate steadily and brake gently. That much weight 20
RV gazette • May/June 2017
demands it and his life depends on it. If you make a habit of watching trucks while you are on the highway, you’ll begin to notice before long that you can almost predict a truck’s movements. Consider these two scenarios that often frighten and anger RVers. You’re on a multi-lane highway approaching a cloverleaf intersection. A truck forward and to your right, signals left and pulls into your lane, causing you to slow as you approach it. Why did he do that? You fume because there was no one ahead of him. That may be true, but the truck driver saw that there was traffic entering the on-ramp at the cloverleaf ahead, and by moving to the centre lane a kilometre before the ramp, he avoided having to suddenly brake or make a lane change once he reached the merging traffic. Still, you say, it inconvenienced me. Yes, but much less than if the truck had been squeezed by the traffic into your lane at the last minute. Now, with this knowledge, you can look ahead to that merge lane and anticipate the truck’s movements. And, if you are in the same position, avoiding the outside lanes at interchanges is good road management for the RVer too.
The second scenario is the reverse of the same situation: the traffic is too heavy for the truck to move over safely before the cloverleaf so instead the driver adjusts his speed to allow merging traffic to enter ahead of him. He may drop between five and 10 km/h, so the following traffic also slows. If you can see this situation coming into play up ahead, you also can reduce speed and avoid having to brake. If the on-ramp traffic is also heavy and they can’t move, most trucks will maintain a steady speed through and past the merge lane. For the motorist entering traffic there are few more intimidating sights than an eight-foot tall radiator bearing down on him but the merging motorist needs to consider his part in this traffic ballet. Knowing that the truck’s speed remains constant, he can quickly gauge whether he has the time (and distance) to accelerate ahead of the truck or to drop speed and slip in behind. A truck maintaining a steady speed is the safest thing for it to do. If you are the one merging, you should calculate where you will enter traffic while still negotiating the on-ramp and if you’re the one on the highway, do the same by looking ahead. If you anticipate its movements, you can easily run circles around that old Pachyderm.
When a truck is backing up, stay away from it. Don’t sit there and wonder why that trailer is swinging toward you. Even though they have very large mirrors, there are all kinds of blind spots during a backing maneuver. Be patient and never cross behind it, or pass anywhere within the arc of a backing truck. Trucks turn differently than cars; the rear wheels of the trailer tend to cut the arc of a turn shorter than the steering wheels. That’s why you’ve seen trailers climb curbs. The only way to avoid this is to exaggerate turns, by either moving to the left before turning right or by driving very far into an intersection and then turning into a wide left turn. Sometimes as the truck moves left, a narrow, temporary lane is created to its right. If a car moves up on the right side of the truck it could get “squeezed” when the truck swings into its right turn. Always pay close attention to truck turn signals. The centre lane on multi-lane highways is the trucker’s passing lane. On major roadways, transport trucks are not allowed in the high speed (far left) lane. That means they rely on the centre lane to pass slower traffic. If you travel in the centre lane, be aware of trucks attempting to pass each other. Travel at the posted speed limit. A truck following you downhill will gain speed; it has no choice because of the weight it’s carrying. The speed the truck gains on the downhill will scrub off as it climbs the next hill. This is how trucks manage their road speed. This speed up, slow down form of driving makes some people crazy. It’s understandable, but what’s interesting is that RVers (particularly with bigger rigs) have the same problem. Not only do they get push going downhill, they need that extra speed to climb the next one. The alternative is to brake on the way down and then crawl up the next hill with their four-way hazard lights flashing. This is one time that RVers and truckers should agree wholeheartedly; braking and crawling are bad for the rig. Again, be aware of the trucks around you and know that on the downhill you will have to accelerate or move over, it’s not fair to make that truck brake and then have to limp up the other side in low gear. Always keep a large space cushion around your car or RV. You do not have to drive beside a truck. Increase or decrease your speed, change lanes and be vigilant. Don’t begrudge the space that trucks need. Accept them, understand them, and be safe.
What else should you know about trucks? When you come to a stop behind a truck, keep to the left of your lane so the driver can see you in his side mirror. If you can’t see the driver, he probably can’t see you. Always leave plenty of room between you and the truck. When a truck is forced to stop on an upgrade, he may roll back. Also remember, he may have a very heavy load and it will take him a while to get going. By leaving space, it will be much easier to change lanes and pass him. Never tailgate, especially with trucks. Driving behind a truck is like having a sheet of plywood strapped to your hood. Your view is almost totally blocked and your only source of road input is his brake lights. If you can pass safely, do so. If not, back way off so you can see more than his trailer doors. When you do pass, allow plenty of room when pulling in front of the truck. They can’t stop on a dime and you might be the cause of a jackknife or your own accident. Once you have decided to pass and see that the way is clear, don’t hesitate. Declare your intention to pass by signaling and follow through quickly and safely. Before re-entering the lane, wait until you see both of the truck’s headlights in your rearview mirror. This will ensure you are an adequate distance from the Howard Elmer of PowerSports Media Services is a truck. Lastly, be sure you maintain your speed when Canadian automotive journalist, truck writer and RVing you are in front of a truck. specialist. May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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Father Lacombe Chapel Photo credit: Alberta Culture and Tourism
Barkerville Historic Town Photo credit: Thomas Drasdauskis
SGang Gwaay Llnagaay Photo credit: Brady Yu
CANADIAN HISTORY from to
COAST COAST In honour of Canada 150, explore historic landmarks from British Columbia to Newfoundland By Hermione Wilson
C
anada is a country with a rich and colourful history you can see and touch from coast to coast. On the occasion of Canada’s 150th birthday, here are some stops to add to your itinerary when you’re on the road this year. As with all Parks Canada National Historic Sites this year, admission is free!
Barkerville Historic Town
Where: Barkerville, British Columbia Established: 1862 Historical significance: When English prospector William “Billy” Barker struck gold in 1862 in an area near Richfield, BC, a ramshackle town, which later bore his name, was born. Barkerville burned down in 1868, but the residents rebuilt it because there was so much gold in the area they didn’t want to leave. Most of the town’s 135 buildings are original, dating between 1869 and about 1930, including St. Saviour’s Anglican Church, the oldest surviving wooden church in BC still in use, and the Chee Kung Tong National Historic Site, which is one of the oldest buildings in town and the oldest ethnic Chinese structure in the country Special events: On April 18, the site will take part in the National Canadian Film Day celebration, when Reel Canada will allow rights-free Canadian films to be shown all on one day. On July 1, Barkerville will mark its 150th Dominion Day, as it was the first in Canada to do so on the first year anniversary of Confederation in 1868. On August 13-15, there will be a re-enactment of an historic cattle drive that was led by Chinese cowboys and their First Nations guides. The memorial ride will be captured in a documentary film. Pro tip: Barkerville operates three different campsites which are all within walking distance of the town. There is a wheelchair-accessible trail that leads from the campgrounds to the park. There are both power and full hook-up sites, and dry sites. If RVers are planning on bringing a big rig and don’t want to walk, they should bring a second vehicle because there is no shuttle between the campsites and the park. May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Where: Fort Macleod, Alberta Established: site is nearly 6,000 years old Historical significance: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is one of the oldest, largest, and best preserved buffalo jumps in the world. An extensive knowledge of topography and buffalo behaviour allowed the native people of the North American plains to drive the animals over a precipice and carve up the resulting carcasses in a butchering camp below. The remains of marked trails, an aboriginal camp and vast quantity of buffalo skeletons bear witness to the historical significance of this site. The site was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981 and an interpretive centre, which houses five levels of exhibits on buffalo hunting culture, was built into the cliff. Special events: A number of special events will be taking place at the site this year, including the Moon of the Longest Day event in celebration of National Aboriginal Day, June 21; drumming and dancing on the plaza, which will take place every Wednesday from July to August; and a three-hour immersive experience of the basics of buffalo hunting, which will take place from July to August every Monday and Friday. Pro tip: Plan on visiting the interpretive centre for one to two hours, with an additional hour if you plan on hiking the site’s lower trail, and an additional 30 minutes if you would like to visit Head-Smashed-In’s many site geocaches. For a list of nearby campgrounds, visit www.albertacampgroundguide.ca.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Photo credit: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site
Fort Walsh Where: Maple Creek, Saskatchewan Year established: 1875 Historical significance: After the Cypress Hills Massacre in 1873 caused explosive conflict between traders and Aboriginal groups in the area, Inspector James Morrow and 30 men from the newly formed North West Mounted Police were sent to restore law and order. They built the fort in June of 1875 a short distance upstream from where the massacre had occurred. Fort Walsh served as the headquarters of the NWMP from 1878-1882 and played a key role in imposing Canadian law in the territory. Special events: On Wild West Trades Day, August 5, blacksmith demonstrations, archery lessons, live music and great food are just some of the many events to look forward to. Pro tip: Fort Walsh National Historic Site is located 24
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Riel House Photo credit: Parks Canada
in the heart of the Cypress Hills. While driving there from the Saskatchewan side, you will discover a fairly steep switchback road through the forest leading up into the higher, scenic Cypress Hills plateau area. There is a pull-off area for RVs if they are too large for the switchback. There is also the option of camping in the nearby Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park and taking a smaller vehicle out to Fort Walsh.
Riel House Where: Winnipeg, Manitoba Established: 1800s Historical significance: As the family home of Manitoba Métis activist and politician Louis Riel, the Riel House National Historic Site was occupied by members of the Riel family from the 1800s to 1969. In 1970 the property was purchased by Parks Canada and restored to its 1886 appearance, the year Louis Riel was hanged for treason. The house and grounds depict the daily life of Métis families in the Red River Settlement at that time. Visitors to Riel House will hear stories of Riel’s life and his struggle to defend Métis rights in a rapidly changing world.
Special events: In late August, Riel House will hold its annual Métis Harvest Celebration, which marks the end of summer with a feast of corn and bannock. The event will also include a variety of traditional Métis activities. Pro tip: Riel House has a free visitor parking lot that can accommodate RVs during regular hours of operation: Friday through Wednesday, 10am to 5 pm and Thursdays 1pm to 8pm from July 1 to the end of August.
Bellevue House Where: Kingston, Ontario Established: early 1840s Historical significance: The house was built in the early 1840s for Charles Hales, a successful Kingston grocer, and was later occupied by Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, and his family from 1848 to 1849. When the Macdonald family lived at Bellevue House, it was an opulent country estate with beautiful gardens, which have been restored and preserved. Special events: A special 2017 rate for guided tours of $7.80 per person will be offered. Also in 2017, a new “Many Voices of Confederation” exhibit will explore
May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial Photo credit: Parks Canada
many angles, important milestones, and controversies related to Confederation, in partnership with historians, Indigenous peoples and other partners to bring stories of Canada to life. On Thursday nights throughout the summer, the site is offering enhanced programming, which will include whisky tasting seminars and a series of interactive Alternative Facts tours designed for a mature audience that will offer a subversive, fun, and nontraditional museum night that probes the lesser known and more scandalous aspects of Sir John A. Macdonald’s life and legacy. Pro tip: If you are travelling to a Parks Canada site in 2017, be sure to plan ahead by consulting the parks’ website for the latest visitor information and making a reservation before you leave.
Grosse île and the Irish Memorial Where: Grosse île, Quebec Established: 1832 Historical significance: Grosse Île was a quarantine station established in the 19th century to deal with the influx of immigrants from Europe arriving at the Port of Quebec, 50 km from Quebec City. At the time, the Port of Quebec was considered the gateway to Canada 26
RV gazette • May/June 2017
and North America. “If you were sick and you arrived at Ellis Island [in the U.S.], you would be sent away. If you were sick and you arrived at Grosse Île, you would be treated on Grosse Île,” says Site Coordinator JeanFrançois Charest. In 1847, a wave of 100,000 Irish immigrants arrived at the Port of Quebec, fleeing famine in their homeland. 5,424 people are buried on Grosse Île that year alone. The Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial was erected in 1997 bearing the names of the 8,339 people of various nationalities who were buried in the Grosse Île cemeteries from 1832 to 1937. Special events: Entry to the Grosse Île site is free this year in honour of Canada 150, although you still have to pay for the boat ride to the island. Pro tip: If you’re planning to visit Grosse Île this summer, reserve in advance. 2017 will be a busy year for the site and the boats are sure to be packed with people. Charest suggests you bring your own lunch.
Old Government House Where: Fredericton, New Brunswick Established: 1828 Historical significance: Government House was constructed from 1826 to 1828 to be the residence of New
Brunswick’s governors and lieutenant-governors. It’s first occupant was Sir Howard Douglas, the lieutenantgovernor of New Brunswick from 1823 to 1831, and the house has since served as the Fredericton Institution for the Deaf and Dumb from 1896 to 1900, housing for units of the Canadian Expeditionary Force from 1914 to 1921, a military barracks during World War I, and later a hospital for returning soldiers until 1924. Special events: Tree plantings, outdoor theatre, and the Canada 150 tulip festival are some of the many activities taking place this year. In July, voyageur canoes will take to the Saint John River and camp out on the grounds of Old Government House where they will be welcomed by the lieutenant-governor as they would have been many years ago when the Saint John River was the main highway in the area. Pro tip: Call ahead to Old Government House if you would like to plan a visit.
cluding a wooden garrison on top of a hill in 1749, built by British troops. The Citadel in its present form was completed in 1856 and is the fourth fort to be built on the site. Halifax Citadel was once a key naval station in the British Empire. Special events: There will be a special Canada Day celebration at the site on July 1; ghost tours offered on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturday nights from July 6 to October 28; RCMP musical rides from July 18-19; a Tall Ships Halifax event from July 28 to August 1; and the Freedom of the City event with the 78th Highlanders, which is an honour granted to military or paramilitary groups in recognition of their service to a municipality. Pro tip: RVers are invited to visit anytime during the season. Special RV parking areas have been designated around the perimeter road of the site. Visitors should check in with a kiosk attendant upon arrival to be directed to the correct parking area.
Halifax Citadel Where: Halifax, Nova Scotia Established: 1749 Historical significance: The star-shaped stone fortress of Halifax Citadel began as a series of fortifications, in-
The 2017 Discovery Pass will provide free admission for the entire year to Parks Canada places from coast-to-coast to coast! Get yours at www.pc.gc.ca.
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May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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Adam and Kate Cox Bay, Tofino
Will you
FULL-TIME RV
with Me?
Any unlikely proposal marks the beginning of couple’s new adventure By Adam Doolittle and Kate McCallum
It was a dark, rainy November evening in New Brunswick that Adam proposed, “Will you full-time RV with me?” I didn’t hesitate and replied with an ecstatic, “Yes!” We haven’t looked back since. As you get ready to RV for the season or perhaps you are thinking of full-time RVing, Adam and I thought we would share with you our adventure thus far. After a combined 30 years in radio, both of us were let go on the same day, as the company we worked for was cutting costs. We gave up on our corporate dreams and decided to change our lives completely by becoming full-time RVers. Last May, after selling all our belongings, we quit our jobs and moved into our RV at Jellystone Park in 28
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Prince Edward Island. We stayed on the island for the summer, getting used to our RV and planning our trip across Canada. There may not be a better spot in Canada to RV in the summer than Prince Edward Island. The small, quaint province is a wonderful place to enjoy camping. Plus, how fun is it that you can drive your RV across the Confederation Bridge? During our summer on PEI we visited more than 60 lighthouses, went clam digging, and spent countless amounts of time on the many beaches. In October 2016, with minimal RV driving experience under our belts, we took off with our 30ft Heartland Sundance fifth wheel and travelled 36
days across Canada. Our trip would take us to what many call the “edge of the earth” in Tofino, British Columbia, where we are currently enjoying the striking landscapes of Clayoquot Sound. If you’re looking for ideas about where to camp this summer, here are some highlights from our crossCanada trek to inspire you.
Montreal, QC
Old Montreal is a fantastic spot to tour around in the summer. We only had a couple of days in the historic city before moving on, so it was important to enjoy it as much as possible before leaving. To do this, we took a food tour of Old Montreal that led us through the beautiful streets while we learned about the history of the city all while filling our faces with some great Quebec City, QC food. When in Montreal you must try their traditional Oh Quebec City, how we love you! Upon arrival in dessert, pouding chômeur, which of course includes Quebec City you feel as if you’ve taken a step back in maple syrup. time to somewhere in Europe. Quebec City at night is a Where to Stay: Camping Alouette real treat, too. The old, narrow streets are pleasantly lit and invite you to meander through them exploring the Northern Ontario open air restaurants and various businesses along the There are many people who advised us to avoid way. From the old cobblestone streets to the ramparts northern Ontario. They say the drive is boring. We to the Chateau Frontenac, it was a pleasure to wander don’t know what they were looking at but, boy is northern Ontario beautiful. Driving the winding roads the streets of this beautiful city. Where to Stay: Domaine de La Chute Cottage & along Lake Superior is something we’ll never forget. It’s RV Resort so picturesque. We spent five days in northern Ontario and had a great time in both Wawa and Thunder Bay. The small Chateau Frontenac town of Wawa is a great stop to enjoy Young’s General Quebec City Store and of course, what Wawa is famous for, the giant Geese monuments. Thunder Bay was a lot of fun, too. The Terry Fox monument is a must-see and offers beautiful views of Lake Superior and Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. The park is a great way to get out and enjoy nature while visiting the area. Make sure you check out the Thunder Bay Lookout in the park. You’ll be blown away. Where to Stay: Thunder Bay KOA
Winnipeg, MB
There seems to be a serious love-hate relationship going on with Winnipeg. Some say they love it. Others say they hate it. We loved it. We spent a couple of days there and enjoyed the Canadian Museum of Human Rights and The Forks. The Forks is a great spot where you can enjoy markets, trails, outdoor entertainment and more. While in Winnipeg we also enjoyed some of the best soft-serve ice cream we’ve ever had at Sargent Sundae. Where to Stay: Arrowhead RV Park
Regina, SK The Sea Lion of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
During the time we were in Regina, the weather was cold and rainy but that didn’t stop us from having fun. The RCMP Heritage Museum is a wonderful look at our world-famous police force and includes some fantastic interactive displays. The Royal Saskatchewan Museum was a great way to learn about the prairie province and May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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features some wonderful exhibits, including dinosaur Surrey/Vancouver, BC skeletons. Our stay in Surrey was only supposed to be for two days Where to Stay: King Acres RV Park before taking the ferry to Vancouver Island. However, due to Super Typhoon Songda, we stayed for a week Cochrane/Drumheller, AB which was a blessing in disguise. In Surrey, we were We chose to stay in Cochrane because of its proximity able to explore the Peace Arch Park, Redwood Park to Calgary. However, Cochrane ended up being a great and White Rock. stop and we never made it to Calgary. One place you We also took a day trip to Vancouver which was must go to if you’re in Cochrane is MacKay’s Ice Cream incredible. What a city! The landscape that surrounds where they’ve been serving fresh, homemade ice cream the city is amazing. We love how walking friendly for more than 60 years. It is quite a delicious treat. Vancouver is. You can pretty much walk the perimeter We also ventured out of Cochrane toward of the city through their connecting parks. Stanley Park Drumheller, where we amazed at the surreal landscape is the highlight amongst all the parks but they are all of the Hoodoos, naturally eroded land formations in the great. If you’re in the city, be sure to take the water taxis Alberta badlands. Also, the World’s Largest Dinosaur in to Granville Island and enjoy the artistic part of the city. Drumheller is a fun stop if you’re in the area. The Granville Island Public Market is a wonderful place Where to Stay: Bow Rivers Edge Campground to fill your stomach as well. Where to Stay: Pacific Boarder RV Park
Jasper, AB
We both caught our first-ever glimpse of the Rockies at Jasper National Park. We stayed near the park for a couple of days but easily could have stayed longer. The Miette Hot Springs are a relaxing treat that will transport your body to heaven. There are some amazing hikes in Jasper such as the Maligne Canyon Trail, which will have you stopping for pictures every two minutes. The wildlife is a real highlight of Jasper as well. During our time in the park we saw dozens of elk and bighorn sheep. There was also a surprise moose sighting that was a real pleasure. Where to Stay: Jasper Gates
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RV gazette • May/June 2017
Tofino, BC
We chose Tofino as our winter destination as the small village has the best winter weather in all of Canada. Getting to Tofino can be a bit of an adventure, though. Driving down Highway 4, while beautiful, is a bit tense at times. The road is very narrow and hugs the cliffs on one side and has steep drop offs on the other. Still, it’s a beautiful drive everyone must make. It’s one of Canada’s best drives in our opinion. Tofino is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations in Canada and it’s no wonder. The temperate rain forest meets the Pacific Ocean,
Hoodos Drumheller
than Tofino. Most people that live here nowadays are transients who originally came for the great surfing conditions. Where to Stay: Crystal Cove Beach Resort Our original plan was to stay in Tofino until April 2017 before hitting the road for a new adventure. However, remember the food tour we took in Old Montreal? We loved that experience so much that we decided to start our very own food tour business here in Tofino. This will allow us to continue to live the full-time RV lifestyle while also being able to travel more during the winter months. We are now planning to stay in Tofino until October 2017 and we will likely continue to return to the area as it has fully captured us. There still remains a lot of adventure on the road ahead for us, filled with all sorts of wonderful destinations. We hope your summer is filled with adventure while making memories camping around our beautiful country. Whether you’re in Newfoundland creating jaw dropping scenery at every turn. Pacific or British Columbia, this country is filled with beauty. Rim National Park Reserve will allow you to enjoy a Have a great summer exploring! handful of trails that take you through the thick rain forest down to the long sandy beaches. Of course, Continue to follow Adam and Kate’s journey at www. if you love to surf there’s no better spot in Canada fulltimecanada.ca.
Your Dog Could Save Your Life!
Canine emergenCy response smart Dialer system
You have fallen and are unconscious. There is no way you can push your “LifeAlert” pendant and call for help. With the Canine Emergency Response Button your dog can come to your rescue. With a simple push of our specialized button your dog can call your neighbor or friend for help. The system plays a message that you personally have recorded. Living alone or traveling, this system will work anywhere you have cellular service with the available Bluetooth™ adapter by simply pairing it to your smartphone.
• You own the Entire System Outright • No Monthly Fees (Customers report savings of up to $400 year) • Includes a water-proof pendant for additional security • Permits Two-Way Communication (once connected) • “Smart Dialer” Technology keeps calling until a live person answers • Easy to use, Quick Set up • Easily activated by most trainable pets and young children • System compatible with both Conventional & Cellular* phones • Great for RV living, works anywhere your cellphone does* • Ideal for anyone who lives alone or has health concerns
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• You Control your call list • You Control your outgoing message. • Our Complete Package also includes everything you need for training… Just add your dog’s favorite training treats *The dialer is set up for a landline, but with our optional adapter can easily utilize cell phone Bluetooth™ technology.
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541.974.0327 May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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Scenic byway near Tettegouche State Park
Land of
10,000 Lakes
Play, paddle, fish, and cruise your way through scenic Minnesota By Explore Minnesota Photo Credits: Explore Minnesota
M
innesota is home to more than 20 scenic byways and more than 11,000 lakes (11,842 to be precise). Get off the beaten path and onto the open road for some of Minnesota’s most beautiful and enjoyable getaways. Any RV traveler looking for an adventure can appreciate the drive from the north shore of Lake Superior to the prairies of southern Minnesota and all routes in between.
North Shore of Lake Superior
Fuel your RV adventure by touring 154 miles of inland coastline along the north shore of Lake Superior. Overlooking the lovely port city of Duluth, the Skyline Parkway Scenic Byway offers travelers a rewarding, bird’s-eye view of the harbour and seemingly endless shoreline of Lake Superior. The spectacular scenery along the North Shore All-American Scenic Drive has earned the route a national designation as an “All-American Road.” Experience the history of the shore at the 1910 Split Rock Lighthouse in Two Harbors, then continue to the scenic overlook at Palisade Head. Continue coasting above Lake Superior to the North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum in Tofte or the friendly harbour village of Grand Marais. 32
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Iron Range
The Superior National Forest Scenic Byway takes travelers on a relaxing, wooded 61-mile drive from the north shore to the communities of the Iron Range. View and tour the mines that helped build America, and make time to visit roadside stops and museums dedicated to the area’s fascinating mining, logging and hockey heritage. Much of the 47-mile drive that connects Grand Rapids to Effie, also known as the Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway, was reconstructed in recent years, promising spectacular scenery—from historic sites and lumberjack-influenced small towns to bald eagles and balsam firs. Along the way you’ll find lots of rest areas, places to fuel up and stunning views. The Gunflint Trail is a 63-mile paved highway that heads inland from Grand Marais through the Superior National Forest, a vast area of woods and lakes that includes access to the renowned Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. For an adventurous trek off the road, take the seven-mile roundtrip hike to the top of Eagle Mountain, the highest point in Minnesota.
May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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From the Great Northwest to the Heartland
After stopping at the “walleye capital of the world” in Lake of the Woods, hop on Hwy 2 and cruise along the shore of Lake Bemidji. Travelers can stop for a photo with two of Minnesota’s most iconic roadside attractions, Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. After a full day of being on the road, quench your thirst at Bemidji’s local brewery before staying overnight at one of the many lodging properties. Connect to the Otter Tail Scenic Byway around FerRiver bluffs on the Mississippi gus Falls to Perham and back for a great circle drive. Make a pit stop north of Battle Lake at Elmer’s BarHwy 16 between La Crescent and Dexter winds for becue on scenic Hwy 78, home of Elmer’s Old West 90 miles among the lushly wooded limestone bluffs of Melodrama Dinner Theater. the Root River Valley, through charming river towns that seem like they’re from an earlier era. Minnesota’s Voyage by The River largest Amish communities settled here, and their Beautiful any time of year, Minnesota’s portion of The simple horse-drawn buggies are common sights along Great River Road National Scenic Byway, is a poputhe roads. Head west on I-90 for a photo with another lar destination for leaf-peeping come fall. The confluiconic Minnesota roadside attraction: The Jolly Green ence of the mighty Mississippi and St. Croix rivers offer Giant stands tall year-round outside Blue Earth. winding roads and vibrant scenery, and cruises through quintessential Minnesota river towns of Stillwater, AfRV and Campsites ton and Hastings. Minnesota has about 500 privately operated campgrounds, Stillwater, known as the birthplace of Minnesota, most of which are located beside a lake or river, with sites is dotted with eclectic shops and antique stores, bedfor RVs as well as tents. Many are at resorts that also offer and-breakfasts, fine restaurants and breweries. In fall, cabins or other indoor lodging. be sure to take a stroll through one of the countless These campgrounds usually feature an array of ameapple orchards and pick-your-own-pumpkin patches nities, such as pools, playgrounds, game rooms, enteralong the route. tainment, boat rentals, wifi, on-site laundry, groceries, and restaurants. Their congenial atmosphere and arFrom Bluffs to Prairie ray of activities make them a great vacation choice. The sharp contrast of landscape in southern Minnesota Many of Minnesota’s most scenic spots have been from the bluffs of the southeast to the prairies of the preserved as state parks, and most of the 75 state parks southwest, winding roads and long stretches, are great and recreation areas have campgrounds with tent and RV sites. for a day of travel.
Big Bog State Park 34
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Website Resources • Where To Go Northeast Minnesota www.exploreminnesota.com/where-to-go/northeast • Where To Go Northwest Minnesota www.exploreminnesota.com/where-to-go/northwest • Where To Go Central Minnesota www.exploreminnesota.com/where-to-go/central • Where To Go Minneapolis / St. Paul Area www.exploreminnesota.com/where-to-go/minneapolis-st-paul-area • Where To Go Southern Minnesota www.exploreminnesota.com/where-to-go/southern • Minnesota’s Scenic Byways www.exploreminnesota.com/where-to-go/scenic-byways • Reconnect on a Minnesota Camping Trip www.exploreminnesota.com/travel-ideas/reconnect-on-a-camping-trip
money senseDclawbacks
By Barry Sanderson
How to Avoid Government Clawbacks at Retirement By Barry Sanderson
Eligible dividends, for example, provide a dividend tax credit, however, it’s the grossed-up amount that is reported as taxable income and is used to determine eligibility for income-tested benefits such as Old Age Security. This is where pre-retirement planning can help reduce the clawbacks that will most harshly affect your reported taxable income. Some clawbacks can be avoided. Knowing how different investments affect income will help you determine a strategy to avoid bringing some of those investments into retirement. One key strategy is to maximize any remaining RRSP room and contribute to your RRSP in the final tax year prior to retirement. This will allow that contribution, once transferred to a RRIF, to spread out your income over several years. When trying to figure out where to turn for advice on this topic, consider a financial advisor who is well versed in tax law and can provide a sample return for the upcoming tax year showing the pros and cons of different types of income on your personal tax return. At the Explorer RV Club, we can locate a financial advisor close to you to help you plan your financial future. Just call us at 800-613-0794.
Monthly Premiums: $100,000 Non-Smoker Rates Age 50 55 60 65 70
Male Term 10 $ 22.85 $ 32.72 $ 54.43 $86.96 $168.00
FemaleTerm 10 $ 18.43 $ 26.34 $ 39.44 $ 63.59 $114.22
Rates Subject to Change Without Notice Medical Underwriting Applies
Are you thinking about the prospect of retiring at age 65 or older? The government has a template to determine if you will receive a full Old Age Security cheque and Old Age Tax credit based on your taxable income. Some of the types of income that can have an effect on your taxable income include eligible dividends, GICs, capital gains, mutual fund or segregated fund withdrawals, and distributions from Series T mutual funds. May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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gourmet the healthy way
Springing into Summer Recipes by Deb Rankine
H
ere are a couple of roadworthy recipes that are hardy, healthy and made with seasonal ingredients. The salad paired with the tarte really goes the distance and is sure to satiate every hungry camper’s appetite. Both recipes can be prepared ahead of time and assembled at the last minute, making dinnertime around the campsite fun for everyone. (Vegan) Kale, Quinoa & Currant Salad (serves 8) Hydrated by the moisture from the oil, vinegar and lemon juice, the currants plump up and offer sweetness to this veggie-centric salad. Their flavour and texture is an unexpected surprise and really makes this salad sing. 1 bunch curly kale, stemmed, leaves finely chopped 4 cups cold, cooked quinoa 1 rib celery, peeled and finely diced 1/2 half English cucumber, finely diced 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper 1/2 small red onion, finely diced 1/2 cup chopped broccoli florets 1/4 cup dried currants 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon Fridge Whisperer Blackened Spice Blend (recipe follows) Kosher salt and cracked black pepper • Blanch kale in a pot of boiling water for one minute, drain, pat dry with paper towel to remove moisture. • Place kale in a large bowl, add quinoa, celery, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, broccoli, currants, oil, lemon juice, vinegar and blackened spice and fold
36
RV gazette • May/June 2017
gently to combine, then season to taste with salt and pepper, cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Use within three days for optimum flavour.
The Fridge Whisperer’s Blackened Spice Blend (makes a scant 1/3 cup) 2 tablespoons sweet paprika 1 tablespoon each dried thyme and oregano leaves 2 teaspoons ground black pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne 1 teaspoon garlic powder • In a mortar and pestle or in a mini food processor, add all ingredient and process into a powder. • Place spice mix in an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place. Use within two months.
cheesecloth and secure around rim with an elastic band and leave to rest at room temperature for 24 hours, then refrigerate for another 24 hours, or until crème fraîche has the consistency of softened cream cheese. Tarte 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed in refrigerator overnight 1/2 cup full fat cottage cheese 1/2 cup crème fraiche 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon each kosher salt and cracked black pepper 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/2 pound German-style Speck smoked bacon, finely diced 1 large Vidalia onion, halved and thinly sliced into half rounds • Preheat oven to 425° F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. • In a skillet set over medium-high heat, fry bacon until three-quarters of the way cooked through. With a slotted spoon, transfer bacon from skillet to paper towel line dish to drain. • Add onion to bacon fat in skillet and sauté until Tarte Flambée translucent, about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. (serves 4 for dinner) Transfer onions to a plate and set aside to cool slightly. • Meanwhile, in the bowl of a food processer fitted This Italian-like pizza is inspired by the tarte flambée with blade attachment, add cottage cheese, crème I had in Strasbourg, France, in the spring of 2007 at fraîche, flour, salt, pepper and oil and process until Spargelfest (asparagus season). smooth. Nowadays, you can buy crème fraîche in the dairy section of most supermarkets, but it’s also fun making To assemble it from scratch so I’ve included my recipe. It takes 48 • Place pastry sheets on prepared baking sheet and hours to prepare so make it a few days in advance of spoon crème fraîche mixture on top, then arrange making the tarte. bacon and onion evenly over crème fraîche. You can bake this tarte in your RV oven or on a gas • Bake on centre rack until pastry is golden, about 15 grill over indirect heat with the lid down. minutes, then transfer baking sheet to a wire rack and let tarte cool five minutes before cutting in half and serving. Crème Fraîche (makes about 1 1/2 cups) DID YOU KNOW... printable PDF versions of Chef Deb’s 1/2 cup full fat sour cream 1 cup heavy (35%MF) cream • Whisk together ingredients until smooth, pour into a sterilized mason jar, cover top with a layer of
entire series (eight cookbooks and counting!) are available at FridgeWhisperer.com for only $1.49 per title.
Enjoy fresh, local, produce all season! May/June 2017 • RV gazette
37
camping newsDreports ALBERTA August 16 and 17 is set up and fellowship. We’ll kick Alberta Wildrose Explorers off Thursday with registration and a potluck. Otto Neitsch is ill and no longer able to look after any Bring a favourite dish for Thursday. There will be a campouts. If any of members are interested in heading up BBQ of hamburgers, sausage and potatoes on Friday and a campout, please call (800) 999-0819. hobo stew on Saturday, with a prize for the best dress hobo costume. Sunday we’ll pickup and say our goodbyes. MANITOBA There will be campfires and lots of games! Come visit Manitoba Explorers with fellow campers and have a good time. Hope to see By Phyllis Briercliffe you all again and newcomers welcome. We’ll soon be packing up for our first campout. Manitoba Cost of campout is $30 per day, per couple or $150 for Explorers like to have this campout in May at Champagne’s the five days. This includes site, hall, food for breakfast and RV Park in Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba. It’s a wonderful BBQ. ($10/day for each extra person staying on your site.) spot to start the season, great facilities and close to Pinawa Directions between Shelburne and Flesherton on Hwy. Dam Heritage Park, which is worth a visit. 10 on Hwy. 9 coming in to Dundalk you’ll see Foodland Manitoba Explorers like to have one special and Dundalk pool, the campground is in behind, there is campout each month in the summer. If you are interested a laneway between them. in joining us, contact Ruth Dejong at (204) 222-7393. Please respond as soon as possible for site bookings. For We always welcome visitors. Happy camping to everyone. more information call Martin Schell at (705) 955-4093 or martinschell52@gmail.com. ONTARIO Happy Campers – Spring Campout – Bracebridge 2017 Happy Campers – Chesley Fall 2017 By Marlene and Bill Webb Submitted by Ginny Eichler Date: June 11 to 15, 2017 Happy Campers will be happy to know planning is Location: Bracebridge Fairgrounds (www.bracebridgefair. already underway for our fall campout. com), J.D. Lang Activity Park, 331 Fraserburg Road, Date: September 11 – September 14, 2017 Bracebridge, ON (just off Highway 11). From Highway Location: Cedar Rail Campground, Scone, ON (Located 11, take Taylor Rd. (Exit 189) west to the traffic circle. At on the Grey Bruce Line, R. R. #3, Chesley) the traffic circle, go left (south) on Cedar Lane to Monica Services: 31 full hook-up sites. Internet available (free Lane on your left. From Monica Lane, go right onto Grey voucher at check-in), heated swimming pool. Showers Road, which runs into the fairgrounds (rear entrance). and restrooms. It’s just a few minutes from Hwy. 11 to the fairgrounds. Registration: $25 per person for the campout. Sign up at WE ARE NOW FULLY BOOKED FOR THIS the Bracebridge campout in June, or contact the Weilers CAMPOUT. An agenda will be issued by email in May. or the Eichlers (see below). Registration Fee: $25 per person (for food, facilities, Camping Fee: The exact rate is being determined, but etc.) Camping Fee: $100 per unit (four nights). It will be will be approx. $30 per night. After set up, please pay collected at the meet and greet. Theme: Spring Fling – the campground at the office. Upon arrival you will be remember to bring your spring outfit. Note: Site hydro is greeted by one of us who will direct you to your site. 15 amp, water is via your hose, bring your Ys. A dumping Theme: We are heading back to the cowboy era for a site is available in the fairgrounds. Western theme. Be prepared to have good old country Contact person: Bill Webb – www.twistedacres1@ fun. Join us for a “ho down” and some rib stickin’ vittles. gmail.com or call (705) 769-3003. A full list of meals and activities will be provided in the next Canadian RVing, as well as by email or phone call. Happy Campers – Dundalk Contact: Ed and Jean Weiler, (519) 696-2488 By Martin Schell (jeanandedweiler@yahoo.ca); Gil and Ginny Eichler, Date: August 16-20, 2017 (519) 578-2128 (ggeichler@gmail.com). Location: By majority vote, this year’s campout will be at Highpoint Campground, Dundalk Southgate, 250 Owen Memories Chapter Sound St. Memorial Park. www.southgate.ca/content/ By Bob and Pat Sanderson highpoint-campground. Most can have water and The season is here! The sound of spring music in the electric hook-ups. Washrooms and showers available, background. The orchestra of cardinals, blue jays and the with dumping station on-site. sun yellow finch sing in harmony. Yes it’s time to frolic in 38
RV gazette • May/June 2017
a wave of bubbly foam. Sit by a campfire waiting to catch a falling star. Maybe tell stories of Big Foot, or search the skies for a UFO. Enjoy your season with family and friends. Plan out all adventures, and most of all, be safe. Memories Chapter 2017 events season is booked. If you would like to join in on any event, please call or email. We can see if we can accommodate you. The long haul trip this year is to Oak Island, NS, and PEI leaving on Monday, July 10, 2017. Another meeting will be held for campground dates, time, adventures to explore, distance to travel each day, lobster to eat and ocean ports to visit. July 1, 2017 Canada Day long weekend is Sauble Beach, Woodland Park Family Camping. Saturday fireworks on the beach put on by the town, and potluck and games on Sunday, July 2. Call Woodland Park Family Camping with your name and request. If there is room available, you will need to reserve with a credit card. Once again, call or email us if needed. August 11, 2017 weekend is the KOA Cookstown Country Western Dance. This is put on by the KOA. Call the office at Cookstown KOA to book. Other events we will be attending: Explorer RV Club National Rally, June 22-25, 2017 and Good Sams Rally, Turning Stone, USA, June 1, 2017. Fall events to be announced in an upcoming issue. For Memories Chapter information, please email bobpat@rogers.com. Looking forward to meeting you soon. Bob & Pat Sanderson.
Southwestern Ontario Chapter By Martha Knight Welcome to another camping season. Our first outing is at Golden Pond RV Resort, 4340 Cromarty Dr., Mossley, ON. We will be there May 23 to 26. Call (888) 990-9920 to make reservations. The next campout will be at Lakewood Christian Campground, 4297 Lakeshore Rd., Plympton-Wyoming, ON, from June 20 to 23. Call (519) 899-4415to make reservations before June 1. From July 31 to August 4, we will be camping at the Great Canadian Hideaway, 32910 Centre Rd., Parkhill, ON. Call (519) 294-6333 to make reservations. We are looking forward to meeting up with all our members and hope that some new friends will join us as well. For more information contact Ben Sietsma at b.lsietsma@gmail.com or (519) 520-2061.
NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter By Ern Pennell Things have been rather quiet since last September, but we are all looking forward to the upcoming camping season. Our next event will be the May Luncheon meeting at a time and date to be announced, followed by our first 2017 Rally in Eastport on the weekend of June 16. As mentioned in our winter report, plans are finalized for the Atlantic Provinces Caravan and the group is due to set sail from Port aux Basque on the morning of July 17 for that enjoyable five-hour cruise to North Sydney, NS. By the time this issue of is published, the snowbirds will Quinte Wagoneers Chapter have already returned to the north, and plans for the By Bill van der Valk No matter what kind of winter you like, Mother Nature 2017 camping season will be well underway. has provided enough variety that we all have had days to Until next time, good health and safe travels! enjoy. We did manage another get together in mid-March at a local restaurant that offers not only a buffet, but a Newfound Chapter “special price” for large groups. A few of our members By Doug Barnes were unable to attend because they claimed that the drive Our 2017 RV schedule has us attending three trips across from Florida, Texas or Arizona was too much for one day. the island. We plan to start our first get-together in Our first camp of the season is on the first weekend central Newfoundland at the Sanger Memorial RV Park in May at North Shore RV Park on the shores of Lake in Grand Falls. After four nights there, we move west to Ontario. The owner has accommodated us by setting the Crescent Lake RV Park in the Robert’s Arm area. aside a dozen sites for our group for the weekend plus Our second outing is scheduled to start on July 31 for a few days before and after as most of us make a long another eight nights and two locations: Bellevue Beach Campground and Paradise Farm RV Park in Bonavista. weekend out of it. Our June camp is scheduled for June 2-4, at Delta, ON, Rounding out this year’s travel plans will be our annual at Lower Beverley Lake Park, a nice campground on the fall get-together at Shriners RV Park in Eastport starting on September 8 with a following stop at Terra Nova water and in the town limits. If you’re interested in joining us at this camp or any National Park. other camp this year, please contact me at billandgerryv@ Further information can be obtained by contacting Doug. Barnes@nf.sympatico.ca. gmail.com. May/June 2017 • RV gazette
39
2017 Explorer RV Club National Rally Shangri-La Niagara Family Campground June 22-25, 2017 REGISTRATION FORM Full Name:_______________________________________________ Spouse/Companion Name:__________________________________ Address:_________________________________________________ City: ___________________________________________________ Prov:___________________________________________________ Postal Code: _____________________________________________
(Please print)
The registration fee includes a boat tour with lunch, a visit to Fort George, plus two dinners and a full breakfast. Cost one unit/2 people
$375.00 =___________
One unit/1 person
$250.00 =___________
Extra person
$150.00 =___________
Sub total:_____________
HST (13%):_____________
Tel:___________________________________________________
Total:_____________
Registration fees include 3 nights of camping, June 22-25. Extra
nights must be booked with Shangri-La Niagara Family Campground at 905-562-5851. Special Meals Required/Allergies:____________________________ _______________________________________________________ Volunteer at Rally: q yes
First Rally: q yes q no
Less deposit:_____________ GRAND TOTAL: _____________
Payment by: q Visa q MasterCard q Cheque Card Number:___________________________________________ Expiry Date:____________________________________________
Membership No:__________________________________________ Type of RV: ______________________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
Length: _____________________ Slideout: q yes q no
If you are willing to share your e-mail with other rally attendees, please include it here: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ In considerations for being able to participate in the Ontario rally, the named registrant(s) agree to hold harmless, defend and indemnify Explorer RV Club, and Explorer RV Club operators, its successors and assigns, from any and all claims for loss, damage or injury to property or person, for any cause whatsoever occurring during its event. Registrant expressly acknowledges and assumes responsibility for all minors in his/her care. By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand and agree to all terms and conditions noted on this page. This reservation form must be signed and accompanied by payment in the proper amount to become valid. Registrant (sign):________________________________________ Spouse/Companion (sign):_________________________________ Date:__________________________________________________ 40
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Rally Deposit and Payment Schedule: Upon registration, $100.00 deposit is required. Full payment of balance is due 60 days prior to the start of the event unless otherwise stated. The Explorer RV Club reserves the right to make changes prior to and during the event. Changes may involve tours, events, campgrounds and/or meals. Cancellation Policy: Written cancellation of your rally reservation must be made to the Explorer RV Club office. Explorer RV Club will retain a $35.00 cancellation fee plus any other fees not refundable by third parties. If cancelled after the final payment is made, the Explorer RV Club can only offer a partial refund.
Reserve your spot now by calling 1-800999-0819. Then complete the rally form & send/fax it in (see address on page 4).
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May/June 2017 • RV gazette
41
Recall Notices By Jim Lister
If you have a vehicle or product that has been recalled, please record the VIN or serial number and call the manufacturer or dealer. The recall contact number for GM is 1-800-263-3777 and for Ford, 1-800-565-3673 or visit that company’s website at www.fordcanada.com and click on “Contact Us” to send an e-mail. Chrysler Canada can be reached at 1-800-465-2001 or e-mail at www.chryslercanada.ca/owners/en and Toyota at 1-888-869-6828.
RV RECALLS Recall No.: 2016-585 Company: Entegra Coach Models: 2017 Anthem, Aspire, Cornerstone, and Insignia Canadian Units: 8 Description: On certain motorhomes, wires in the throttle circuit were not shielded properly during manufacturing. This could result in a throttle setting above or below the commanded throttle setting/input. An incorrect setting for the throttle input could result in a loss of throttle, or inadvertent acceleration of the throttle which, depending on the driver’s reactions and traffic conditions, could increase the risk of a crash and/or property damage. Correction: An authorized Spartan Service Centre will supply and install an overlay harness with the wires shielded to the proper specification. Recall No.: 2016-584 Company: Forest River Models: 2017 Vibe Canadian Units: 33 Description: On certain travel trailers, the kitchen stove may have been incorrectly bonded to a 12v positive circuit. This could cause the stove to become energized which could increase the risk of electrocution to the trailer occupants. Correction: Dealers will remove the positive circuit going to the stove. Recall No.: 2016-587 Company: Forest River Models: 2016-2017 Riverstone Canadian Units: 14 Description: On certain fifth wheel trailers, the spare tire and rim combination provided with the vehicle are incompatible with the disk-brake hubs. The wheel is contoured in a fashion which does not allow the rim to mount flat and flush to the hub face. Should a user install the subject spare tire assembly, the lug nuts could fail and possibly cause a wheel and/or the caliper 42
RV gazette • May/June 2017
to detach from the brake mount. This could lead to reduced braking effectiveness and could affect vehicle handling which would increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the spare rim and tire assembly with a compatible spare rim and tire. Recall No.: 2016-656 Company: Forest River Models: 2013-2015 Columbus 2015-2016 FR3 2015-2016 Spartan Toy Hauler 2015-2017 XLR Toy Hauler Canadian Units: 316 Description: On certain travel trailers manufactured with a Christianson Industries exterior foldable ladder, the ladder’s mounting bracket could separate from the hinge due to an incorrect weld. This could result in the ladder separating from the vehicle, which if an individual were to be utilizing the ladder, could lead to an increased risk of injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will install a hinge brace over the back of the existing hinges to secure the hinge and mounting bracket. Recall No.: 2016-609 Company: Gulf Stream Models: 2016-2017 B Touring Cruiser & Conquest Mfg. Recall No.: GS12616 Canadian Units: 17 Description: On certain motorhomes, the telematics of the in-dash radio with AM/FM CD/DVD and back up monitor have not been restricted while the vehicle is in motion. If the vehicle were to be driven with an active monitor in the driver’s line of sight, it may be a distraction to the driver. This could result in unsafe operating conditions which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will add an override wire connected to the parking brake to deactivate the DVD player while the vehicle is in motion.
Recall No.: 2016-607 Company: Heartland Models: 2015-2016 Landmark Mfg. Recall No.: 99-01-30 Canadian Units: 2 Description: On certain fifth wheel trailers outfitted with disc brakes, the steel wheel spare tire provided with the vehicle are incompatible with the disk-brake hubs. The wheel is contoured in a fashion which does not allow the rim to mount flat and flush to the hub face. Should a user install the subject spare tire assembly, the wheel will rub against the disc brake caliper until it comes into contact with the brake line. If the spare tire with the steel wheel is installed and wears through the brake line, it could lead to a loss of braking or control, and affect vehicle handling, both which would increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the spare rim with an aluminium compatible spare rim. Recall No.: 2016-581 1 5/8/14 9:49 AM Page 1 McPhail'sOfHarriston_Layout Company: Jayco (Highland Ridge RV) Models: 2016 Highlander
Canadian Units: 11 Description: On certain travel trailers manufactured with a Christianson Industries exterior foldable ladder, the ladder’s mounting bracket could separate from the hinge due to an incorrect weld. This could result in the ladder separating from the vehicle, which if an individual were to be utilizing the ladder, could lead to an increased risk of injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will install a hinge brace over the back of the existing hinges to secure the hinge and mounting bracket. Recall No.: 2017-004 Company: Jayco Models: 2016 Alante and Precept Canadian Units: 32 Description: On certain motorhomes, the wiring for the entrance step may have been installed incorrectly and it is possible that the step could retract on its own. If the step were to retract, an occupant exiting the motorhome could fall, increasing the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will inspect the entrance step
McPhail’s of Harriston
IN THE HEART OF ONTARIO
3 km South of Harriston, on Cty. Rd. 109, old Hwy #9
Take a little drive to the country for big savings !!!
COACHMEN CLASS C
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ALLEGRO BUS
CEDAR CREEK
SURVEYOR
CHAPARRAL
R POD
VIKING HARDTOPS
• 20,000' INDOOR SHOWROOM • FULL SERVICE – FROM LARGE MOTORHOMES TO FOLDING TRAILERS • SERVING OUR CUSTOMERS SINCE 1958 • LARGE PARTS & ACCESSORIES STORE
Where Service is our Motto Phone (519) 338-3422 or Toll Free 1 (888) 665-2025 Fax (519) 338-2770 E-mail: mcphails@wightman.ca www.mcphails.on.ca May/June 2017 • RV gazette
43
recalls for correct wiring. If the wiring is found under the door threshold, it will be removed and the step will be rewired with improved wiring routing. Recall No.: 2017-005 Company: Jayco Models: 2017 Cornerstone Canadian Units: 3 Description: On certain motorhomes, the Wabco OnGuard Collision Mitigation System may have been installed upside down. This could cause the system to have reduced function and operate unexpectedly reducing vehicle speed which would increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Spartan service centres will reposition the Wabco OnGuard Collision Mitigation System using a new bracket and recalibrate the system. Recall No.: 2016-626 Company: Keystone Models: 2016-2017 Dutchmen Voltage 2016-2017 Keystone Fuzion 2017 Keystone Carbon and Raptor Mfg. Recall No.: 16-274 Canadian Units: 65 Description: On certain travel trailers, the hinge assemblies of the rear cargo door may have been manufactured incorrectly. The weld on the hinge assembly had been ground down during manufacturing to ensure clearance when installed on a door. The grinding of the weld weakened the joint and as a result, if the door were to be opened and the hinge assembly were to fail, the door could come down with more force than normal, increasing the risk of injury to a person standing nearby. Correction: Dealers will inspect the hinge assembly and replace as necessary. Recall No.: 2016-660 Company: Keystone Models: 2016-2017 Alpine & Avalanche Canadian Units: 168 Description: On certain travel trailers, the certification, tire and loading information placard does not contain correct spare tire load range information. The labels incorrectly indicate a “G” load range for the spare, while the trailers are fitted with an “E” rated spare tire. Correction: Placards will be mailed to owners along with instructions for proper installation. Recall No.: 2016-621 Company: K-Z Recreational Vehicles 44
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Models: 2016-2017 Durango Gold and Venom Canadian Units: 13 Description: On certain travel trailers, the hinge assemblies of the rear cargo door may have been manufactured incorrectly. The weld on the hinge assembly had been ground down during manufacturing to ensure clearance when installed on a door. The grinding of the weld weakened the joint and as a result, if the door were to be opened and the hinge assembly were to fail, the door could come down with more force than normal, increasing the risk of injury to a person standing nearby. Correction: Dealers will inspect the hinge assembly and replace as necessary. Recall No.: 2016-577 Company: REV Recreation Group Models: 2015-2016 Holiday Rambler Vacationer Mfg. Recall No.: 161018REV Canadian Units: 21 Description: On certain motorhomes, the front truss may have inadequate support at its attachment points, which could cause it to sag. If wire harnesses, or hydraulic lines are routed between the truss and its supporting framework, they could become pinched or crushed. If the wire harness were to be damaged, it could result in an electrical short, which could result in intermittent operation of electrical systems, a possible vehicle “shut down” and may result in loss of vehicle control. If the hydraulic lines were to be damaged, it may cause a hydraulic fluid leak. Both of these conditions could increase the risk of a fire increasing the risk of injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will add additional steel to properly support the front truss. The hydraulic hoses and electrical wiring will be inspected and relocated if necessary. Recall No.: 2017-022 Company: REV Recreation Group Models: 2017 Fleetwood Flair, Storm and Holiday Rambler Vacationer XE Mfg. Recall No.: 161229REV Canadian Units: 4 Description: On certain motorhomes, the sway bar that is attached to the rear of the chassis may not have the correct torque specifications applied. This could cause the mounting nuts to become loose, and could result in the sway bar detaching, which would create a road hazard and could affect vehicle handling, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or
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FULL-TIME iRVing ngadventure V R One couple’s new E M I T L dventure FUL le’s new a One coup TEST DRIVES
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2017 May/June
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tte.com www.rvgaze
6 issues annually
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recalls property damage. Correction: Dealers will inspect the rear sway bar attachment bolts and replace any that are found to be compromised. Dealers will also ensure that the nuts are tightened to specification. Recall No.: 2016-589 Company: Thor Industries Models: 2017 Livin Lite RV Camplite and Quicksilver Canadian Units: 3 Description: On certain travel trailers, the required 12” copper tube which connects the liquid propane (LP) system to the cooktop may have been omitted during assembly. If the copper tube is not present, the rubber LP hose could melt, resulting in an LP leak. A propane leak, in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will install the required 12” copper tube in the cook top burner box and will re-inspect the LP system for leaks. Recall No.: 2017-014 Company: Thor Motor Coach Models: 2014-2016 Tuscany Mfg. Recall No.: RC000123 Canadian Units: 61 Description: On certain motorhomes, an opening in the wall of the compartment that houses the keyless entry module could allow moisture to enter the compartment. If moisture were to enter through the opening, it could contaminate the keyless entry module, potentially causing an electrical short, which could result in the wiring to melt, smoke, or lead to a fire, increasing the risk of injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will seal the opening in the compartment wall with expanding spray foam. Recall No.: 2016-592 Company: Tiffin Models: 2015 Allegro Bus Mfg. Recall No.: FL-712 Canadian Units: 2 Description: On certain motorhomes with steering gears mounted on the front axle, an incorrect spacer may have been installed. This may result in wear over time, which could lead to a loss of the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and front axle wheels. If this happens, there could be a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect and suspect gears will 46
RV gazette • May/June 2017
be replaced. Note: Owners are advised to not drive their motorhomes until a replacement steering gear is available. Recall No.: 2016-593 Company: Tiffin Models: 2015 Allegro Bus 2013-2015 Phaeton Mfg. Recall No.: FL-704 Canadian Units: 46 Description: On certain motorhomes equipped with a heavier weight adjustable straight foot pedal, the brake activation signal to the motorhome’s brake lights and to certain towed devices may not deactivate when the motorhome service brakes are released. This may cause the motorhome brake lights to potentially remain illuminated, which would result in the following road users being unaware of the driver’s intentions. Additionally, if the brakes of a towed vehicle were to remained engaged, it could result in a loss of vehicle control. Both of these conditions could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Daimler Trucks North America authorized service facilities will replace the torsion spring of the pedal assembly with an improved spring. Recall No.: 2016-594 Company: Tiffin Models: 2015 Allegro Bus 2013-2014 Phaeton Mfg. Recall No.: FL-711 Canadian Units: 44 Description: On certain motorhomes, when the throttle pedal is released, the associated throttle pedal sensor may not return to zero, causing the engine brake to fail to activate as expected. This could cause extended stopping distances and increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Daimler Trucks North America authorized service facilities will replace the throttle pedal. Recall No.: 2016-595 Company: Tiffin Models: 2015-2016 Allegro 2016 Phaeton Mfg. Recall No.: FL-707 Canadian Units: 5 Description: On certain motorhomes, the front sway bar mounting bracket may not fit on the axle mounting surface correctly. This could cause the mounting bolts
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recalls to bend or become loose, which could result in the sway bar possibly detaching, which could affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Daimler Trucks of North America Dealers will modify the sway bar mounting surface. Recall No.: 2017-035 Company: Tiffin Models: 2016-2017 Phaeton Mfg. Recall No.: FL-727 Canadian Units: 12 Description: On certain motorhomes, a rubber coated braided power steering hose may have inadequate clearance to the starter power stud due to incorrect routing. This could cause the power steering hose to rub against the stud on the starter motor, which could cause an electrical arc and a power steering fluid leak. A power steering leak in the presence of an electrical arc could increase the risk of fire causing injury and/ or damage to property. A power steering fluid leak could also require additional steering effort which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Daimler Trucks of North America Service Facilities will reroute the power steering hose to ensure proper clearance to starter stud. Recall No.: 2016-661 Company: Triple E Models: 2017 Serenity Mfg. Recall No.: 8495 Canadian Units: 4 Description: On certain motorhomes, the circuit leading from the coach power system to the battery contains an undersized 4AWG wire which is connected to a 150 amp fuse, while it is only rated to carry a maximum load of 120 amps. If there was an overload on the coach power system wire, there would be an increased risk of a fire which could cause injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will repair the wiring as necessary. Recall No.: 2017-019 Company: Winnebago Industries Models: 2017 Itasca Navion and Winnebago View Mfg. Recall No.: 143 Canadian Units: 53 Description: On certain motorhomes, the driver and/ or passenger seat pedestal bolts may not have been properly tightened during vehicle assembly. Over time, this could cause the bolts to loosen and could result in 48
RV gazette • May/June 2017
one or both of the seats to possibly detach from their mounting pedestals, which could increase the risk of injury and a crash. Correction: Dealers will inspect and ensure that the seat pedestal bolts are tightened to proper specification. Recall No.: 2017-025 Company: Winnebago Industries Models: 2017 Grand Tour Canadian Units: 3 Description: On certain motorhomes, a rubber coated braided power steering hose may have inadequate clearance to the starter power stud due to incorrect routing. This could cause the power steering hose to rub against the stud on the starter motor, which could cause an electrical arc and a power steering fluid leak. A power steering leak in the presence of an electrical arc could increase the risk of fire causing injury and/ or damage to property. A power steering fluid leak could also require additional steering effort which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Daimler Trucks of North America Service Facilities will reroute the power steering hose to ensure proper clearance to starter stud.
AUTO RECALLS Recall No.: 2017-016 Company: BMW Models: 2007-2008 X5 2008 X6 Canadian Units: 7,671 Description: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag module or inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected. The complete list of May/June recalls on vehicles can be found at www.rvgazette.com
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May/June 2017 • RV gazette
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classifieds For Sale
Class C in great condition. 1998 Fleetwood, 29 ft., new tires, ca 120,000 km. Many extras, will safety chassis. Training session available. Asking $42,000. Tel: 613824-9257. 2015 Forest River Georgetown XL36, Class A. Stored indoors, all extras, safety certified. Call 705549-0100 or email cjkelly2599@gmail.com. Class A, 35’, 2000-2001 Holiday Rambler Vacationer. Excellent shape, no pets, smoking, kids, accidents, maintenance up to date, only 42,439 miles, always kept inside, rear airbags, new rear air conditioner, new Banks stainless manifolds. Inside a real show winner! Call 519-532-4820. Perfect retirement combo! 2010 V8 Kia Borrego EH, 2002 30’ Award Classic, fully furnished, no smokers or pets, all maintenance records for both. Asking $30,000. For more information contact Marion at mmscholz@ sentex.net or 519-729-2219.
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Send in your photos of your favourite places to stop!
Adam and Kate stop at the “Goose” in Wawa. Story on p. 28. 50
RV gazette • May/June 2017
Advertisers’ List Aviva Home and Auto Insurance ....................51 (IBC) Baja Amigos ...............................................................................49 Can-Am RV Centre (RV Dealer) ....................................7 Canadian RVing.........................................................................45 Explorer RV Club ...................................................................47 Explorer RV Club Emergency Road Service ..........41 H. Broer Equipment ..............................................................49 Havelock Country Jamboree ..............................................5 HaveROCK Revival ..................................................................5 Hymer .................................................................................2 (IFC) K9 Emergency Response Button ..................................31 Lant Insurance (Hagerty Classic Car Insurance) .. 15 McPhail’s of Harriston (RV Dealer) .............................43 National Bank ...........................................................................27 Passport America (Camping Club) ..............................33 RPM Havelock ..........................................................................25 RV Hotline .................................................................................50 Sanderson Travel Insurance ..............................................11 Sanderson Insurance & Investments ...........................35 SAW Technology ....................................................................49 Wayfarer Insurance ...................................... 49, 52 (OBC)
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