This newsletter has grown from a few friends in 1997 to 9300+
friends in 2004. It seems that we must be doing something right,
so we will continue to do so.

Getting Ready for Spring (Part 2) By: Les Doll

Tires, wheel bearing, suspension & brakes

Spring is the time to examine the RV tires closely, looking
for cuts or other visible damage on both sides of the sidewall.
Inflate the tire to the proper pressure and inspect closely for
sun-checking damage. This refers to the small cracks that occur
due to constant exposure to the sun and other weathering agents.
Check the tread for uneven wear on one side or the other and for
other irregularities in the wear pattern that would indicate a
possible alignment or wheel balance problem. RV tires rarely wear
out! Most normal usage means low mileage - the tread may look
fine, but the tire may still be ready to fail due to age. I'll run
an article on RV tires in an up-coming issue ...

You can check for excess wheel bearing play by first jacking
the wheel off the ground, then, facing the wheel, grasp it from
both sides and check for in and out "wobble". It's normal for the
wheel to move slightly, maybe up to 1/16" or so, but more than
that is excessive.

Because of the intermittent use and long periods of storage,
wheel bearings on a trailer should be inspected and repacked
with grease on a yearly basis. This gives you the opportunity
to have the condition of the brake components checked at the
same time. As this involves pulling the wheel bearings, unless
you are a mechanical type, this job is better left to the
professionals.

Visually inspect the suspension components for looseness,
bent or broken parts and other obvious problems. The suspension
system utilizes nylon bushing in all the joints that will wear
out over the miles and should be replaced periodically. Any leakage
from the shock absorbers, if so equipped, indicates that they are
due for replacement.

THE THREE P'S By: Dr. Donald E. Wetmore

Four Footed Travelers by Peggi McDonald

Animals are such an important part of so many families
- they also make great RVers. When we settle into a new destination
ours can’t wait to get out the door to investigate the new smells,
sights, sounds and interesting places to walk.

Each time we come home, they extend the warmest of welcomes with
tails wagging and a jubilant greeting. Their contagious love and
devotion is difficult to explain and they don’t ask for much in
return, they simply want to be our friend. We may have dogs but
all pets provide RVers with a sense of security plus they are
warm understanding companions. Although, pets do tie you down
at times, they also give your life a sense of purpose.

Q—Are Pets welcome at RV Parks?

Generally yes, but we find park pet policies range from one
extreme to the other. Approximately five states have rules
prohibiting pets in their state parks. These restrictions are
listed in the write-ups of each park in the large International
Campground Directories. This information is also available
from state tourist bureaus or local Chamber of Commerce offices.
Frequently small animals (under 20 pounds) are welcome but we
see pets of all types and all sizes strolling the campground
roads and trails. A cat belonging to friends in Mexico loved
to be tied outside for the entire day. Our American neighbor
in Milton, Ontario was travelling with his pet cockatiel on
his shoulder and en route north a few years ago an RVing
neighbor was caressing his immense pet snake on his patio.