RV Camping Mag. | Nov. 2022

By RVCM Staff

November begins the RV OffSeason. It’s when Full-timers and snowbirds head south, and parttimers winterize and store their RVs. But for some, this is when the best part of camping begins: the cold-weather camping season!

This month, we speak with Tom and Cheri of Enjoy the Journey.Life. We learn how they met and the obstacles they’ve overcome. Cherie shares her PTSD recovery experience and how she pays it forward by helping others.

Are you a full-timer or snowbird looking for an Awesome Cold Weather Camping

Discover some great possibilities. There’s even a ski resort that lets you stay for the whole off-season!

Are you looking to toad a dinghy?

show

We also discuss what to look for when

for a flat-towable

WEBSITE

Skiers, ice fishers, and cold-weather camping fans will love our Towable Trailers section. We show you the Best Extreme Cold Weather Fifth Wheels on the East and West Coasts.

Do you need some upgrades on your 4x4 camper van or pickup with a truck camper? Our Van and Truck Camper Section starts you off with some great ideas!

RV surge protectors are essential accessories, but should you get a portable plug-in or a mountable hardwire unit? We compare 30 and 50-amp devices in our RV Gear Department.

This month, Todd from the NRVTA stops by to give us some great tips on common problems for 2-way/ 3-way RV refrigerators.

In our News and Noteworthy Department, we give you a glance at Brinkley RV’s Z3100 mid-profile fifth wheel. This is the first prototype for this new RV manufacturer. See what they created and what they have in mind for the near future. We hope you enjoy our November issue of RV Camping Magazine and thank you for your subscription.

EDITOR

EDITORIAL

Mike Scarpignato

Susan Scarpignato

Brian

DESIGN

Kelly Y. Lee

CONTRIBUTORS

Tom and Cheri Kenemore NRVTA

ADVERTISING SALES Mike Scarpignato mike@rvblogger.com 443-699-6556

EDITORIAL mike@rvblogger.com

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COMMON

RV REFRIGERATOR ISSUES

BY THE NRVTA

If you have a 2-way/3-way refrigerator, here are some tips to keep your fridge running in top condition. These types of refrigerators use an absorption process to create a cold temperature.

It seems strange, but the first thing to be aware of is that heat must be created to produce cold air. That’s why a burner assembly uses propane or electricity behind the unit.

Make sure that if you have a cooling fan installed for summer use (which I do not recommend), it’s turned off if it’s not factory installed with a thermostat. Otherwise, the burner can’t produce the heat to cool the unit.

ADJUSTING THE THERMISTOR

If it’s too warm or cold inside the refrigerator, you’ll need to look inside the fridge, at the top, for what is called a thermistor. A thermistor is a simple piece of wire with a clip attached to the fins inside the fridge.

Simply move the clip up if you prefer the temperature to be

Let FMCA Help You Get Back To You

There’s a lot to learn – and love – about RV life, and the best resource for information, discounts, on-the-go assistance

more is the FMCA RV Club. FMCA is your ally to navigating the RV world with confidence. Here are a few of the great

that come with being a member of FMCA.

FMCAssist Medical Emergency & Travel Assistance Program All

evacuation coverage

the membership. (over a $200 value).

Roadside Rescue®

FMCA

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FMCA’s Tire Savings Program

Save hundreds

dollars on

passenger tires.

light truck,

cooler, and move it down if you prefer it to be warmer. It’s important to note that you can move the thermistor if your unit has a manual thermostat.

If you have a dial thermostat, you simply touch the dials (in the plus or minus range 1-9), and you don’t need to move the thermistor manually.

REMOVING ICE BUILDUP

All RV refrigerators are closed systems (independent of the RV’s main electric system). If you notice ice buildup, you’ll need to check the

drip tube in the back and the seals to ensure no air is finding its way into the refrigerator. Grab your silicone caulk to fix the open spaces on the seals.

MAINTAINING YOUR RV FRIDGE DURING COLD WEATHER

The primary goal during cold weather is to ensure that the back of the unit is kept warm. Ensure everything is insulated nice and tight to keep the temperature regulated and the refrigerator working correctly during your travels.

The National RV Training Academy

If you would like to be able to fix the majority of the problems on your RV yourself, check out the Home Study Course offered by the NRVTA!

SURGE PROTECTORS

PORTABLE OR HARDWIRED

BY RVCM STAFF

These past couple of years, we all learned the importance of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). Did you know that your RV needs PPEs as well?

Protecting your RV’s electrical system from electric surges is essential. Here are some RV surge protectors that come as either plug-in or hardwire, which you’ll want to check out.

1. PROGRESSIVE INDUSTRIES PLUG-IN

For those looking to protect their 30 amp motorhome or travel trailer, Progressive Industries SSP-30XL is a portable smart surge protector for your RV. You can connect to the device via Bluetooth to monitor its status when you download the app.

The SSP-30XL operates in all weather and temperatures and has a weather-resistant cover. The 3-color LED indicates if there’s a problem with the shore power connection. Progressive Industries places the reference key right on the label, so you know if you have a bad connection.

2. PROGRESSIVE INDUSTRIES

HARDWIRE

Some RVers like to stop the electrical surge at the shore power connection, while others want it at the connection point in the RV. Progressive Industries has an Electric Management System (EMS) surge protector that hardwires in your rig.

The EMS-LCHW30 is the plug-in’s counterpart that’s plug-and-play. It has multi-mode protection that scrolls continuously, displaying the surge, voltage, polarity, and lost/open neutral protection status.

Besides the usual electrical suspects,

Like all quality RV surge protectors, the SSP30XL is UL Certified and approved by Canadian Authorities. Progressive Industries gives you a lifetime warranty on the device if something goes wrong.

INDUSTRIES

PLUG-IN

the EMS-LCHW30 also protects and identifies 240V, A/C frequency issues, surge failure, and other conditions. This 30amp hardwire RV surge protector is about the size of a 1980s walkman,

so that it won’t take up much space in your utility bay.

PROGRESSIVE INDUSTRIES

3. HUGHES AUTOFORMERS WATCHDOG PLUG-IN

Whether you’re a dog person or not, you’ll love having this watchdog protecting your 50-amp RV electrical service. Hughes Autorformer’s Watchdog PWD50EPO has Bluetooth connectivity to your smart device to report your shore power hookup status.

The Watchdog Plug-in has customizable alert thresholds that you can set, which warn you of electrical problems at your tolerances. There’s also an add-on feature that lets you connect the device to a cellular data network, so you can check it wherever you are.

4. HUGHES AUTOFORMER WATCHDOG HARDWIRE

Like its portable “littermate,” the hardwire Watchdog PWD50-EPO-H has the same protections and an additional feature. If the mountable RV surge protector detects a voltage below 104V, above 132V, or other concerns, it’ll shut the power off. When the electricity returns to normal for 90 seconds, it’ll turn it back on.

Once installed, the PWD50-EPO-H has a 4-second delay. Remember that when you’re setting up your RV at the campground. It’s just

the device warming up and checking the current before releasing it into your RV.

Hughes Autoformer offers a limited lifetime warranty

on all of its products if anything goes wrong.

WHICH IS BETTER: HARDWIRE OR PLUG-IN?

If you’re torn between a hardwire or, there’s no such thing as being too cautious. Hardwire units are generally more

expensive but come with more protection features. Plug-ins are more budget-friendly and will protect your RV from all of the common electrical issues.

Without an RV surge protector, you could end up with a fried electrical system because you didn’t have that one RV PPE.

EXTREME COLD WEATHER FIFTH WHEELS

BY RVCM STAFF

F or many, this is the time of year to winterize their RV for the off-season. For some, it’s when the best part of RVing starts. If you’re into cold weather camping, ice fishing, and enjoying ski resorts with your RV, we have some great fifth wheels for you!

1. OUTDOORS RV GLACIER PEAK TITANIUM SERIES F28RKS

Outdoors RV is a Pacific Northwest RV manufacturer that mainly sells out west. Easterners will want to make the trip to the Denver, Colorado, RV Show to see this beauty. The Glacier Peak F28RKS comes in two trim levels: the Mountain and the upscale Titanium Series.  Both series have a remote camping package wired up for a generator and solar system. Every side of the RV is packed with insulation making this fifth wheel rated for negative temperatures. The Mountain Extreme Thermal Pane Windows are

2. NORTHWOOD FOX MOUNTAIN 235RLS

Are you concerned about quality? Northwood RV builds everything in-house, including its chassis. Located in La Grande, Oregon, Northwood Manufacturing is the town's pride.

The Fox Mountain 235RLS mid-profile fifth wheel comes standard with an off-road capable chassis and cold-weather insulation. The cathedralarched ceilings come jamb-packed with thick fiberglass batt insulation.

You’ll have to be careful about your furnace setting because even on the

HEARTLAND BIGHORN

Oh, the life of a remote worker. While almost every snowbird is in the sunbelt, you’re stuck up north because this gig requires you to be close to the job site. At least you’re nice and cozy in your Heartland Bighorn 3883MD!

The mid-bunk space has a real desk that you can work from and a door that gives you privacy to work. While it’s 20-something degrees outside, you’re in your shorts and favorite t-shirt, nice and warm with the superior insulation and 40,000 BTU furnace. Just make sure you change for your Zoom meeting.

4. ICE CASTLE FISH HOUSES ALL SEASONS TRAVELER

Your favorite ice fishing competition is finally here! This time you’ve brought your secret weapon: Ice Castle Fish House’s AllSeason Traveler Fifth Wheel. You’ve already cleared the weight with the park service, so nothing will stop you from using all 6 lighted fishing holes.

The Minnesota Vikings are playing their archrivals on Sunday, so you won’t miss the game on the LED TV. The fridge and pantry are stocked for the competition, and there’s plenty of sleeping space for your buddies who join you.

With the fish camera connection and all of the comfortable seating and sleeping space, make sure you don’t fall asleep when your fishing pole line bells ring. You don’t earn any points for the one that gets away.

HOW DO COLD WEATHER RVS PERFORM IN THE SUMMER?

If you take a look at some of the online RV

marketplaces, you’ll see some of these cold-weather RVs being sold in places like Arizona and New Mexico. Why, you might ask?

The true purpose of the thick insulation, dual pane windows, and other components is to prevent heat transfer. That means whether you’re trying to keep the heat in or out, they do their job better than traditional RVs.

So when it’s 120°F outside, your air

conditioners don’t have to work so hard to keep the interior at a balmy 70°F. Therefore, these RVs should be called “extremeweather fifth wheels.”

There are some costs you need to understand. Fifth wheels and travel trailers in this sub-category are heavy and cost more than their traditional counterparts. The RV manufacturers do what they can to manage the weight, but they use stronger materials for the chassis, frame, and other components to support the

additional weight.

The upgraded furnaces, thick insulation, and other non-standard building materials take a toll on the overhead when building these temperaturevaults-with-wheels. So be prepared for higher pricing.

But, when you’re at the ski resort, watching the other RVers making do, or the mass exodus of RVers leaving Washington State after Labor Day, only you can determine if the costs are worth it.

The Lectric XP ™ 3.0 is your gateway to an elevated and powerful adventure! It takes our award-winning XP™ 2.0 design to the next level, providing our best ride to date.

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BY RVCM STAFF

f you were a single parent with older children, how would you explain to your kids that you met someone, you’re selling the house, and moving into their RV?

For Tom and Cheri of Enjoy The Journey.Life, that conversation worked well because watching them on their 175,000-subscriber YouTube channel makes it easy to see why they belong together.

These two RV influencers show their viewers the real

“Tom and Cheri bring you into their lives as real-world mentors in the ever-changing RV world.”

challenges of their RV life so others can learn from their accomplishments and failures. Whether forgetting to double-check the hitch, running from a hurricane, or something very personal, Tom and Cheri bring you into their lives as real-world mentors in the ever-changing RV world.

We talked with Tom and Cheri about how they started RVing, their challenges, and how they continue to “Enjoy the Journey.Life.”

Tom and I have a background in media, so we thought it would be fun to put our talents together. We wanted to help others on a topic that can be overwhelming to many! The learning curve on RVing never ends, including for ourselves. So what better way to encourage others to live this lifestyle than to show them the ropes, the cool gadgets, and the entire spectrum of fun and adventure in this lifestyle? We also wanted

1. WHY DID YOU START ENJOY THE JOURNEY. LIFE AND WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING YOUTUBERS?

to show how to make RVing easier despite the challenges.

This lifestyle isn't for everyone, so we think it’s important to show the positives and the negatives because there WILL be challenges. (RV crushes truck! People still tell us they always double-check because of our video!)

We enjoy the creative part of being YouTubers! We are both self-taught amateur videographers and editors. It's fun to come up with a new video shoot idea, angle, or editing technique. We've also stretched our creative abilities by making documentary-length videos on topics unrelated to the RV lifestyle, like Skinwalker Ranch and the Jerome Haunted Hotel.

2. HOW HAS FULLTIME RVING CHANGED YOU AND YOUR PERSPECTIVE OF THE WORLD?

We’ve discussed several times that each “section” of the U.S. is so unique that it feels like you are in a different country. For example, comparing Utah, Florida, and Minnesota can feel like other planets

because of the diverse landscapes, climates, and dialects.

We appreciate every region of the U.S. for its cultural influences. Each place has different accents, behaviors, foods, and other variations. Immersing ourselves in each location, especially the local foods, is the best part of the RV Lifestyle.

Our daily RV lives consist of working in our RV, but we appreciate every opportunity to have an epic adventure on our days off. We always make the most of our time off to get fresh experiences.

“This lifestyle isn't for everyone, so we think it’s important to show the positives and the negatives because there WILL be challenges.”

3. TOM, BEFORE YOU MET CHERI, WHAT DREW YOU TO THE FULL-TIME RV LIFESTYLE?

I envisioned buying a small RV and taking it into the mountains. I couldn't wait to sell my small business and get on the road.

I wanted to work on projects I loved, like writing a book and creating online courses. All while enjoying an amazing, inspiring view. That vision has changed a little bit, but I still love boondocking on public land in the mountains or with a beautiful water view the most.

4. CHERI, AS A SINGLE MOM, WHAT DREW YOU TO THE FULLTIME LIFESTYLE?

When Tom and I met online, he was afraid to tell me he lived in an RV. He didn't know that I had been researching “tiny houses”

“We've also stretched our creative abilities by making documentary-length videos on topics unrelated to the RV lifestyle, like Skinwalker Ranch and the Jerome Haunted Hotel.”

because I was already on the path of downsizing from a 3,000 sq ft home to an apartment to enjoy the freedom of the minimalist life.

I was so impressed when he told me he lived in his RV. I think he was shocked at my response. Living in an RV is basically a tiny house that travels more often. I don't know why I hadn't discovered this concept before. I was intrigued!

There are many resources for consuming content— research, research, research. And be sure to

As I mentioned, the learning

5. WHAT’S YOUR BEST ADVICE FOR THOSE LOOKING TO BECOME FULL-TIME RVERS?

“I have a website where others can take the official PTSD test. It's important to raise awareness about this widespread diagnosis.”

curve is enormous, and it continues, even for us; we have been doing it for yearssss!

We advise renting a motorhome or travel trailer first to try it out. Get a feel for what it's like, so you know firsthand. It’s very different than living in a home, and although they’re making RVs more “homelike,” it’s still very different. Get out there and get your hands dirty, literally! (but please wear gloves when handling the black hose). Most of all, HAVE FUN!! Enjoy each location, nature, and all this country has to offer. It's gorgeous out there.

6. SHARING YOUR PTSD STORY WAS NOT EASY. WHAT RESOURCES DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR OTHERS WHO STRUGGLE WITH PTSD?

I have a website where others can take the official PTSD test. It's important to raise awareness about this widespread diagnosis. So many people have it and don't even know. Too many people have problems with sleep, anxiety, and depression. All of it could

stem from any type of trauma.

In a 2 hour session, the method I used was profoundly healing after a single session. While it’s not a “magic pill,” the one I chose did more for me than other techniques. It shifted everything in my life, and I no longer have lingering negative emotions. Instead, I feel confident, happy, empowered, positive,

and my outlook on life is incredible. I have taken my pain and turned it into my passion for helping others with PTSD.

Seeing people make that shift right before my eyes is rewarding. I am grateful to help so many, and I love connecting with each client on a personal level. So many are our viewers, and we have so much in common. They’re “my people.”

My website is www. thegatewayprocess.com . You can take the test for yourself and learn more about PTSD.

I also recommend the following:

• Meditation

• Mindfulness

• Breathwork

• Daily sunshine

techniques, but they’re

important in

want

Facebook Page , Instagram , Website , and

out their RV Life Master Class: Beginners

to

can visit Cheri’s website to learn more, take the test, and learn more about PTSD at The Gateway Process

4 Best TOW BARS FOR DRIVABLE MOTORHOMES

BY RVCM STAFF

In the drivable motorhome world, towing a dinghy means that you’re towing a passenger car behind your motorhome. Towing a car, SUV, or truck is a great way to explore your camping destination. To do this, you’ll need a reliable tow bar. Here are some great tow bars that belong on your shortlist.

1. BLUE OX AVAIL TOW BAR

The Blue Ox Avail has a 10,000-pound towing capacity. You can tow virtually any flat-

towable passenger vehicle with your top-end Class A gasser or diesel pusher. The steel construction gives you a solid connection to your 2-inch hitch ball.

You’ll also find that the turning radius gives you the ability for sharper turns. The built-in suspension gives you a smoother ride over rough roads. Get the complete kit with the coiled electric cable and waterproof bag

that keeps the tow bar clean and dry when you’re not using it.

You can still find the Avail on the market, but Blue Ox has replaced it with the Hercules this year. The big difference is that this gray-colored tow bar has a towing capacity of 12,000 pounds.

BLUE OX AVAIL

BAR

2. ROADMASTER STERLING ALLTERRAIN TOW BAR

Roadmaster is another quality brand known for its tow bars. The 576 Sterling All-Terrain Tow Bar is great for your Class C motorhome, especially those with 4x4 capabilities.

The independent adjustable arms telescope easily before they lock in place. You’ll also find that the receiver uses a pin instead of a traditional ball hitch. You’ll still have the full range of motion with the advantage of a secure connection.

The Sterling All-Terrain Tow Bar automatically centers itself while traveling to make the towing experience easy. It comes with all of the wiring for the electronics and braking systems. At 35 pounds, this tow bar is very manageable to use.

ROADMASTER STERLING ALL-TERRAIN TOW BAR

3. CURT

RAMBLER STEEL

RV TOW BAR

Your Class C and B plus motorcoach will match well with the CURT 70001 Rambler Steel RV Tow Bar. Its 7,500-pound towing capacity will tow your halfton truck or mid-size SUV without a problem.

CURT’s patent-pending non-binding latches provide a hasslefree connection and disconnection on unlevel terrain. The locking mechanism also gives you a fast connection that’s easy to operate.

The standard 2 x 2-inch

hitch fits any hitch receiver and it even works with Blue Ox baseplates. All of the moving parts are fully sealed, making the tow bar weather-resistant.

CURT RAMBLER TOW BAR

4. DEMCO DOMINATOR TOW BAR

Demco’s 9511008

Dominator Tow bar may only weigh 30 pounds but has a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds. The independent arms and trigger release make towing your toad easy to connect and disconnect.

The Dominator also comes with safety cables that are attached to the tow bar. The cables are just as strong as safety chains, but the advantage is that you don’t have to worry about chains dragging on the ground.

If you’re using a different brand base plate on your toad vehicle, Demco does have adapter components, so you don’t have to buy a

DEMCO DOMINATOR TOW BAR

replacement.

WHAT’S THE BEST VEHICLE TO FLAT-TOW?

In today’s auto industry, flat towable passenger cars are available, but you must do your homework. Here’s what to look for:

• Rear-Wheel-Drive

• 4x4 vehicles (not allwheel drive)

• Vehicles that don’t max out your tow weight

• Keep yourself open to used vehicles

• Previous model year vehicles may be flat towable, but not the current year

There are exceptions, but generally, front-wheeldrive vehicles can’t disengage the wheels from the transmission to roll free. Rear-wheel-drive vehicles can roll free, but the driveshaft and transmission will need their fluids to cycle to prevent damage.

4x4 vehicles have a secondary transmission

control that disengages all the wheels, so they spin free. If you have a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, your RV dealer can equip your passenger vehicle with additional components to keep your driveshaft lubricated and electronically flow your transmission fluid (auto service centers don’t do this type of work).

For more information on flat towable vehicles, check out our article on the subject on our RVBlogger website .

CAMPING

BY RVCM STAFF

Many RV parks close during the winter, making it difficult to find a place to stay. And the open ones in the snowbelt have a limited number of electric-only campsites.

With some imagination and research, you can find great places to park your RV for the off-season. Here are four extended RV park camping locations to get you started.

1. JOJOBA HILLS SKP RV RESORT

AGUANGA, CA

If you're a member of the Escapees RV Club, you may want to look into Jojoba Hills SKP RV Resort in Southern California's high desert for an extended stay. You’ll find picturesque desert mountain views, campsites with shade trees, and picnic tables. The RV Resort was created,

built, and maintained by Escapees members who wanted their own winter getaway. It’s full of activities, social events, and opportunities to make new friends.

Close to San Diego, wineries, and California beaches, it’s an excellent place for a home base, “an ideal location that is city-close and country-perfect,” as their brochure states.

JOJOBA HILLS

2. MIDWAY CAMPGROUND RESORT AND RV PARK

STATESVILLE, NC

The family-owned Midway Campground Resort and RV Park in Statesville, North Carolina, is open year-round with campsites spread across 30 acres of a hardwood forest. Full hookups make it a great place to park your RV for

an extended stay.

The campground is convenient to I-40 and within driving distance of Charlotte, the Piedmont Triad, and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cast your line in the fishing pond, take a dip in the Olympic pool, or gather around the campfire for good old-

fashioned fun. The on-site laundry facilities, mail delivery, camping store, and propane service make it convenient for extended stayers. Everything is here to make you feel right at home.

RESORT & RV PARK

3. BENTSEN PALM VILLAGE RV RESORT

MISSION, TX

Calling all bird watchers! If you’re looking to escape the cold weather and do some serious birding, Bentsen Palm Village RV Resort in Mission, Texas, is the place for you.

The beautiful gated South Texas RV resort in the Rio Grande Valley has a unique hub-and-spoke circle design that allows ample space to maneuver even the biggest RVs.

The RV resort is next to the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park World Birding Center, home to over 400 bird species, and the National Butterfly Center.

Besides the abundant birding opportunities, the area is rich in history and culture, with nearby museums, historical sites, and Mexican markets. Its convenient location near South Padre Island, Brownsville, and Harlingen is the perfect place to set up camp for an extended stay.

BENTSEN PALM

VILLAGE RV RESORT

4. GUNSTOCK MOUNTAIN RESORT CAMPGROUND, GILFORD, NH

If you love to ski, snowboard, or just enjoy the winter wonderland, Gunstock Mountain Resort Campground in Gilford, New Hampshire, is the perfect place to park your RV for an extended stay.

The campground is on Gunstock Mountain Resort, a popular ski destination in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire. It’s also one of the few RV parks open year-round north of the Mason-Dixon line.

Imagine your own winter vacation spot where you can ski all day with discounted tickets and

stay in your RV at night. The maintenance crew plows the path to your RV door, providing easy access to and from the ski slopes.

When you’re not skiing, enjoy the other winter activities Gunstock offers, including snow tubing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing.

When you’re ready to

beyond

you’re just a

and all the

of the

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF EXTENDED RV CAMPING?

For full-time RVers, extended camping during the off-season can be a way to save money and enjoy the great outdoors. While many campgrounds close for the winter, there are still plenty of options for those who want to stay

put for a few months.

One of the most significant advantages of extended RV camping is the savings you’ll enjoy on camping fees. Most campgrounds offer discounts for those who stay 30 days or more. Also, you can take advantage of the smaller crowds at the campgrounds. You're likely

to see more wildlife.

If you’re considering extended RV camping, check with the campground before making your plans. All campgrounds require reservations for extended stays. Also, be sure to ask about any off-season discounts that may be available.

CAMPER UPGRADES

BY RVCM STAFF

Some towable trailers can handle the challenge of climbing mountain passes or fording through swamps. Still, it’s a different experience when driving your camper van or truck camper with a pickup truck

through the harshest environments.

We’ve found some excellent off-road van and truck camper upgrades to take your 4x4 RV or

pickup to the next level.

1. OFF-ROAD TIRES

The BF Goodrich AllTerrain T/A KO2 Tires have been a critical component

for races in Baja and are a must-have in other offroad activities. You’re sure to find the correct one for your camper van or pickup truck with 89 different sizes available.

The KO2 tires are 20% tougher than standard tires due to the CoreGard Technology. They also have a 50,000-mile limited manufacturer’s warranty and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

The aggressive serrated shoulder tread provides traction in mud, snow, and rocks even when the tires are aired down. So whether climbing through an impassable trail or crossing loose sand, the BF Goodrich KO2 tires will get you through.

2. VEHICLE RECOVERY KIT

There's a truth in the 4x4 RV world: “Before you go off-road, make sure you can save yourself from getting stuck.”

Vehicle recovery kits are an essential accessory if you’re going off-road. One day you may find that one hole, log, mud pit, or snow drift you can’t get out of no matter how hard you try.

The Bog Out Vehicle Recovery Kit with Straps turns your wheels into that rescue winch you need. Simply hook them up to your powered wheels and a strong tree or rock on the other end. Then use the ladder-like straps to slowly pull your camper van or pickup truck and camper out.

The Bog Out also doubles as a tow rope rated for 3 tons, so you can rescue yourself and help others. The Bog Out straps fit nicely in the small bag when you don't need them.

OUT

3. SKID PLATING

Skid plating looks great, but if you’re serious about off-road adventures, you have to protect the underbelly of your camper van or pickup truck. Unfortunately, auto manufacturers don’t add protective shielding to critical components like your engine, transmission, gas tank, and other essentials under your vehicle.

Generally, they can handle the road debris of everyday driving. Yet when you head off into the rough and tumble of the backwoods, a perfectly placed rock or stick can puncture something.

The Aries 35-8000 3-inch Stainless Steel Bull Bar fits perfectly on your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. There are other models for the 3 levels of full-size pickup trucks for truck campers fans.

Not only does this bull bar protect the front intake and engine of your vehicle, but the bar also pushes things away without damaging the van or truck itself. The design of this bull bar allows you to attach it without having to drill into your vehicle. There are even two predrilled holes if you want to mount lights on it.

4. OFF-ROAD LIGHT KIT

The best off-road locations are usually in the most remote areas on Earth. During the day, you’ll see incredible landscapes, plant life, and you may even see animals you’ve read about in books.

At night, you probably won’t see anything. Even with your headlights set on bright, you’ll be in true darkness.

PLATING

You want to look into

If anything goes wrong, the company provides a 1-year warranty to ensure a risk-free experience. In addition, the lights and brackets are all rust-resistant and anticorrosive, so don’t let that Louisiana swamp intimidate you.

WHAT OTHER UPGRADES ARE THERE FOR OFFROAD CAMPING

You can add many more upgrades to your camper van, truck camper, and pickup truck for off-road camping. External gear racks, satellite GPS, independent suspension, side rails, and so on.

The most important thing you want is knowledge.

If this is the first time you’re heading out to a remote area, you want to know everything you can about the area. Where to go if you get hurt, what areas are too risky for your vehicle, and what dangers to avoid.

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BRINKLEY RV PREVIEWS ITS FIRST FIFTH WHEEL

BY RVCM STAFF

September 25, 2022, Goshen, Indiana-New RV builder Brinkley RV showed its first prototype – an upscale “Model Z” fifth wheel –at a reception on the eve of the 2023 Elkhart RV Open House.

September 25, 2022, Goshen, Indiana-New RV builder Brinkley RV showed its first prototype –an upscale “Model Z” fifth wheel – at a reception on the eve of the

2023 Elkhart RV Open House. The reception took place at a leased Goshen, Indiana, facility not far from the expansive 252-acre complex the fledgling RV manufacturer is building on the south side of Goshen near the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds.

Spearheading the new company are five equal partners, including Ron and Bill Fenech, both former THOR Industries Inc. executives who later played key roles in launching Grand Design RV and, on Bill Fenech’s part, Barletta Boat Co. LLC.  Also familiar within

the RV sector due to their previous tenure at high-profile firms like Dutchmen and Grand Design are operating partners Ryan Thwaits, Micah Staley, and Nate Goldenberg – all of whom helped introduce the “Model Z,” a cleanlooking, mid-profile fifthwheel set to retail for about $100,000 when

it goes into production at Brinkley’s temporary Goshen headquarters in November.

“Well, this was our first showing of our first fifth wheel,” Brinkley President Ron Fenech told RVBusiness last night. “We invited… our new and old dealer friends and a large number of our suppliers and our employees.  Brinkley’s 45 workers are largely focused on the Model Z, which features

the three-quarter-ton towability of a mid-profile line along with some of the luxury aspects of

an upscale full-profile towable in a unit about which plenty of details are still in the works.

“Coastal Farmhouse” interiors feature taller ceilings, upgraded flooring, brass fittings, a 54-inch entry handrail, adjustable pantry drawers, a spice rack built into a galley drawer plus an articulating ottoman.

Although specifics are still sparse, current plans call for the Model Z to be

in the mid-30-foot range in terms of length with a GVWR of around 14,000 pounds.

Next comes a “Model G” toy hauler and, down the road, maybe motorized RVs. “Frankly, I think motorized would make a lot of sense for us,” maintained Goldenberg, “but towables are where we shine. That’s what we do, and it’s been

About Brinkley RV

our forte.”

Otherwise, Staley said Brinkley’s philosophical approach should set it apart from its competitors. “Every decision we make is based on the customer,” he noted. “And our goal is to have the most customer-focused, userfriendly fifth-wheel in the marketplace.”

Brinkley RV is focused on the relentless pursuit of the ultimate customer experience. Our ownership team is comprised of some of the most experienced RV veterans; many of which have spent the past 20 years building the most successful brands and companies within the industry. With five equal partners, we have the unique ability to have an owner touching every part of our business, every day.

RV BUSINESS

RVBusiness is a business-to-business magazine rich in heritage and the acknowledged media leader in the RV industry. Published six times per year, each must-read issue features important industry news, insightful analysis, respected columnists, and unmatched coverage of events and newsmakers. The magazine is regularly cited by the industry as the No. 1 media source for the RV industry.