RVers Love To Help Each Other...

by Peggi McDonald

John and I were so naive in the beginning. The only fact we knew for sure was "we wanted a motorhome". Since we had no idea of what an RV was or how many models were out there, we found it easy to limit our search to a motorhome. We decided to go full-time even though we didn't know much about that either. After much discussion and a three-year search, we purchased our first dream machine one year before retirement. Although the extensive briefing from our dealer was most appreciated, as we pulled out of his lot we forgot most of what they told us. Thanks to the assistance of other RVers and our own ingenuity, we began to understand the RV life. Even the manuals for our new RV didn't follow until later. To help us remember basic info during the briefing, John made a location diagram of all operating toggles, valves, switches, and handles.

Our maiden voyage was a major fiasco. Although we did everything wrong, we had a wonderful time. That first weekend was a definite learning exercise. Our site only had water and electric hookups, no sewer. Imagine: in two morning showers we overfilled the gray water tank... we knew nothing about any water saver on the shower handle. We were aware it was not good for the environment to release gray shower water, but since it was almost fresh tap water, I felt there was no harm. With John's diagram in hand, I ventured outside to open the valve. You guessed it—the sketch was upside down and I pulled the black (toilet) handle in error! Thankfully, the black tank was almost empty.

Quickly I cleaned my mess with the water hose, but the manager was most unhappy with me. Lesson number one: don't drain gray water on the ground, especially without a park's approval... and make sure all notes and diagrams are right side up! There's a good part to this story: the next day, European RVers in a rental unit asked us to show them how to dump their tanks. We felt important—now as "experts," we were sharing our new-found info with others.

As our weekend experiences continued, we slowly understood a fraction of the art of living and traveling in an RV. We were hooked! Every trip became a more memorable adventure than the last, even with our numerous mistakes. Finally, we discovered a park 20 minutes from work—a wonderful place to spend the summer. The key to our transformation from inexperience to writing about the RV lifestyle was mainly because of the kind assistance of seasoned RVing neighbors at that park. They took us under their wing and explained every intricate detail of the RV lifestyle. Now we share the same information with anyone who'll listen because we want all RVers to be as contented with this fascinating way of life as we are. Recently we traded to our third motorhome—this time to a diesel pusher. As long as we have been on the road, we felt like we returned to newbies when it came to understanding the idiosyncrasies of this unit. Every type and model of an RV is unique, and it is somewhat frustrating to learn the ins and outs, but with the help of your dealer, neighbors, and RV friends, most problems are easily overcome.

When you first check into a campground, don't be afraid to ask your next-door neighbors to help you park your unit. They can also assist you to set up hand signals so parking becomes easier. For instance, the co-pilot must be able to see the side mirror—or the driver can't see you. Directing John into the site is my job when we pull into a campground, and if that is your task, you have the perfect opportunity to "tell your mate exactly where to go and they can't argue!" I don't worry about explaining which way to turn the steering wheel; I only signal where I want John to put the rear of the unit. The exact signals you use are unimportant as long as you both understand what they mean.

Clear Hand Signals for Spotting:

• Come back: Lots of room to back up.
• Steer rear left or right: Point clearly in the direction the rear of the rig should move.
• Come straight back / Go forward.
• Hold / Pause: STOP for a minute while checking hidden obstacles like patio edges or picnic tables. Use your hands to indicate the remaining distance between a post or fence and your bumper.
• Immediate STOP: Cross your hands with fingers straight or in a fist.

Some RVers find it easier to use walkie-talkies or headsets to communicate with the driver. There is no right or wrong way—only what works for you. But remember, the driver can only follow the advice of one person at a time. If a neighbor offers to help when you already have a routine established, simply say "Thanks," and explain that the driver "only has eyes for you!"

We learned so many basics from our next-door neighbors during those early years. They explained how to level a unit using 18" x 2" x 8" boards cut with a beveled edge. Our friends were insistent that if we put a board under one dual tire, we must also add one to the inside dual at the same time to equalize the weight pressure across the axle and tire assembly.

They also insisted that while setting up, it was important to test our electric hook-up with a 3-prong circuit tester before connecting to shore power to check for reverse polarity or an open ground. These testers are available at RV supply and hardware stores. They explained the importance of using a water pressure regulator at the campground faucet to protect interior plumbing. They also informed us of the importance of 30-amp 10-gauge heavy-duty extension cords and why we should use drinking-water-safe hoses (usually white)—25-foot extensions of each, as well as a 20-foot sewer hose. Our good neighbors shared other hints such as using quick-disconnect brass fittings on the city water outlet for fast, hassle-free setups.

RVers love to share invaluable hints. This list could continue ad infinitum, but it's easier to digest in small doses. One tip I hope you take to heart: don't be shy accepting or asking an RVer for help! Taking heed of their experience will save you money and aggravation.

Till next time. See you down the road!