2022 RV Predictions • I Hope You’re Paying Attention

I want to amplify & focus on a serious subject John mentioned on the RV Odd Couple. Taking care of your RV going forward, since this is what RVstreet is all about.
Follow up video concerning my exciting announcement:
• Get SERIOUS doing RV M...
The final piece to my comprehensive back up power plan in case of emergencies:
• Using a Bluetti AC200P...
My PLAYLIST page where all m videos are::
/ rvstreet
Today's video is not to scare you but to motivate you to action to get better prepared NOW and become more self reliant. What kind of RV back up systems do you have already or need? Where do you need redundancy so you’ll always be prepared? Have you done a thorough inventory of your RV to see where you may have weaknesses that would make living in your RV very difficult if not impossible if some of these systems failed? Or how about if you just loose power.......for a prolonged period of time. Same with your water supply. What will you do if you don't have an ample supply of water.
I posted a poll on my Community Tab about a month and a half ago. I wish more of you would of responded to get a better sampling, but let’s take a look at that poll out of the 216 people that did participate.
The main question was:
How many of you consider your RV is prepared for ANY EMERGENCY?
26% very prepared
52% somewhat prepared
22% haven’t given it much though
RVstreet has been emphasizing the need for proactive maintenance for a long time. It’s imperative now more than ever to keep your rig running top notch all the time. But also more important than ever, is you’re going to have to know how to do most of this stuff yourself.
You cannot rely on other people, RV Dealers or RV Service Shops, when in a pinch, have a RV emergency or just getting regular maintenance done. If you remain reliant on other people, you’ll be in a weak position, people will take advantage of you & you could easily find yourself stuck or stranded somewhere with your RV broken down or some systems not working right. It’s time for to learn now how to take care of your RV yourself and become more self reliant.
So what am I saying:
I’m saying that I understand many of you are afraid or feel incompetent to work on your RV. The thought RV maintenance may seem daunting & even scare away prospective new RV buyers. But this is something you can learn to do & you need to start learning now. It has to be a PRIORITY in your life to learn. If you're one of the folks that says, “I’m not going to worry about this or that right now. I’ll deal with it when the time comes, I highly encourage you to rethink that strategy.
If you follow my channel, you know I’ve been getting ready all this year with redundant power solutions. I’m putting my final touches on my Bluetti power system and easy to set up of 400 watts of solar. I’ll be putting out a video soon on that. But that’s just one thing I’ve done.
I’m constantly looking for ways to make our RV better, easier to live in, more reliable & sustainable, doing maintenance, fixing & upgrading stuff so that as we live & travel in our RV, I’m confident that we’re going to have a good time & greatly reduce any surprises.
Here's what I've done so far this year to have redundant power solutions:
• RV POWER SOLUTIONS for...
You don't have to go to the school of hard knocks.
Please...consider SUBSCRIBING to our Channel. It's FREE. It’s a great way to support us, our channel-and Martin-who is a “Purple Heart Veteran” 💜.
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💗 BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE:
EVEN IF WHAT YOU NEED IS NOT IN OUR AMAZON STORE, YOU CAN STILL CLICK OUR STORE LINK BELOW, THAT WILL TAKE YOU TO OUR STORE, SHOP AND SEARCH ON AMAZON LIKE YOU NORMALLY WOULD, PUT YOUR ITEMS IN THE CART AND CHECK OUT. Using our Amazon Store to buy your RV gear, parts, maintenance items “AND ANYTHING ELSE YOU NEED” is a great way to say "Thank You" Martin for making these videos and helping the RV community.
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DISCLAIMER:
We are in no way experts or professional mechanics. But being a journeyman millwright for years & being EX Military, has proven to be very helpful in my lifetime learning how to care for & maintain all sorts of machinery & equipment like: helicopters, airplanes, tanks, motorcycles & many types of other vehicles. That, along with 18 months preparing & upgrading our RV before we went full time, & now traveling for several years has gained us a lot of knowledge. Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Work you perform or products you purchase based on any information we provide is at your own risk.

[@patwoman80447]

Knowledge is power! Socrates said "The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance." My father always told me that the day I stop learning is the day I die. Having never married, I HAD to learn how to do things for my self. I'm still learning how to repair things in my rig and do all the maintenance. All the DIY videos on KZbin are invaluable to this Class C owner. Thank you for the quality content you produce.

[@colemanthevigneron1330]

Coleman here, thanks for bringing these topics to my attention. I'm now beginning to address every topic you discussed with my preparedness and maintaining our RV.

[@DaveMathison503]

Agreed Agreed Agreed....I've got a Class A Gas, thats where it starts. 24,000 lbs of responsibility that I live in full-time. So KZbin's RV service channels are a must for component manuals and service manuals the techs use to diagnose and repair problems. So far I've troubleshooted my Norco fridge, fixed, rewired the tail lights of my tow vehicle, enhanced/ stabilized the driveablity of this F53 chassis, downloaded the code and troubleshoot manual for the Onan generator and fixed an Over frequency issue (free$), so many for little things and I've only had this unit for 16 months. RV service centers are a Big Never and a traveling RV service tech is right next to that cause what I fixed a service tech would have charged me a ton of money. My tools I carry are specific to the equipment of this coach but there are a couple things I still need like a 500 ft/lb torque wrench for these 22.5" wheel lug nuts. Even though they don't give you a spare tire with these things you still have to check torque occasionally. So my bottom line is know what your dealing with and hew to fix it.

[@vernonsteinkamp1088]

At 70 years old my wife finally talked me into buying an RV. I am normally an artist and working on paintings but am able to fix almost everything. I knew when we purchased a used, older RV, it would involve a learning curve, I just didn't know how sweeping that curve would be. It has taken all of my time and the paintings have been placed on the back burner. After doing a lot of remodeling and rebuilding (wood rot) our 20 footer is really taken on a new life. This vid has opened up a new door for me to work on which is preparing and planning ahead and knowing, in more detail, how this little monster of ours works. Thank you for your vids, they are very helpful and we plan on using your Amazon store.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Vernon so much 🙏

[@slister45]

I've been watching RV living KZbin videos since I bought my first rig in 2019. I just discovered you day before yesterday! I've been binge watching your channel ever since. I'm about to embark on my very first solo adventure from NY to NC to visit my children. I am so grateful that I found you!

[@duaneroepke8840]

A lot of RV'ers especially New RV'ers think they must go to an RV dealer or repair facility for all repairs or parts. For the 5ers and towables, if you have troubles or need parts for the suspension, axles, most leveling jacks and such, one can go to any place that handles flat bed and gooseneck trailers to have repairs made or pick up parts. Most times you can get in sooner and be cheaper than at a RV dealer. Just saying, quite a few times, there is more than one source for parts or repairs.

[@jackharding98]

Glad I watched the whole video, the pregnant lady intro had me wondering how you'd suggest we Martinize that situation.

[@winginitwithjohn8451]

Well said Martin. This is why your channel in my top 3 for rv maintenance, even though I'm in a 5th wheel, the systems are the same. Change the what if to an EVEN IF automatically turns a negative to a positive. Great video.

[@fredhereau6235]

Thank you Martin!!

[@dkleath8697]

I recently found & subscribed to your Channel & you are quickly becoming one of my favorites...I'm an almost 70 yr old woman ("Surviving Spouse" since '81). You seem so easy to talk to & understanding that I almost told you my life story ( well, the last 4 yrs, since I've lived in an old 5th Wheel!). It's been really tough, but I'm not a quitter > been preparing and doing everything on my own all my life, but now I'm about worn out & broken-down. I don't know if I can pass muster repairing/maintaining my "home on wheels", but your content is a blessed help, so thank you. ps: prayers for you & your wife Joni ( hope to see her on a video someday, too > she's blessed to have such a good husband & must be quite a special lady! Thank you both!

[@markschultz926]

As always great video you always get me off the couch and get busy

[@donitaarender7839]

Great message and video! You are so correct about being prepared for the unknown. And being able to handle it!. Thanks again for the great reminder.

[@enjoylife1176]

Love the gloves

[@brettc4734]

Outstanding video Martin!! Well said and everyone needs to think about those situations. Well done as always and keep up the great videos.

[@sidneywhitaker9972]

Very well said. Absolutely love your videos. Very valuable info. I have got to get with it on some extra parts to have on hand.

[@LawrenceTuckerFyretuck]

I enjoy your approach to subject matter on RVing! Once I found your channel, I started watching from the beginning.

[@jimmymcclosky3786]

I could not agree with you more than being prepared. Like yourself, I learned some those same skills in the service but also through my parents and grandparents. Thank You!

[@martihoffman]

Thanks for this video. Been watching you for a year and watched lots of older videos. We just purchased a class A and are much more confident we can do this!

[@rolandh5867]

Well put Martin, you made me realize how much I need to do while my 5th wheel is parked beside the house & that now is the time to get things done before i get ready for spring vacation. Always learn something from you guys. Thanks for posting so much information for the RV community

[@marknielsen5352]

Hi Martin, anther great video! I am slowly gaining knowledge on my rv and having a few spare parts on hand. Thanks again for what you do! 🍺

[@danphillips6606]

I've been watching your u tube for about two years every time it comes on and I've learned a lot.

[@hemlockhomestead8907]

Martin I just want to say that I really appreciate your time and effort in putting these videos together. We are new to your channel and just recently subscribed. All of the videos I have seen are very well explained and easily understandable. You and Joanie are “blessings” to us RVers. I have learned so much and continue to look forward to more.

[@lifeisahorse9113]

I just discovered you last week. I have been using you tube for awhile to learn how to work on my rv. It has been an awesome experience. You are now in my top 3 channels. Thank you for your time.

[@ro-cl2do]

Very good subject Martin!!

[@stevegauthier9579]

I’m french Canadian and recreationnal RVer. i love your channel, the easy understanding informations and advises, it’s a great source of informations. And for this video i love your way of thinking, it’s always winner to be proactive and far-sighted. 👍

[@elaineg4921]

Thanks for your knowledge n guidance.

[@byronwilkerson7018]

Just subscribed. First time I have visited this site and realized there still are people with common sense. Great info!

[@michellekoonce3191]

Yes I agree, My 30’er is ready to go! ALWAYS! I full time live in it and I constantly maintain everything, as I can on my own. You and Joni are so valued as a KZbin RV friends! Also you are every RV garage nightmare BC they want the business and you are keeping that away from them. Good luck! In 2022 and I hope more patrons to your channel!! Happy Trails

[@barzalou]

Thank you Martin for landing one on my keester.... My class A RV is winterized and going through a lonely - 30° winter temps here in Canada. I'm itching to get into it and am really greatfull for your encouragements. Again, I feel Martinized 😏😉 Thank you! 👍

[@daviscrt]

great video, I exercise my RV appliances once a month. Last year bought the NRVTA online training course. My water and gas tank is always full and ready to go. We been evacuated 3 times because of fires. Thanks Don

[@stewartdunkley4108]

Absolutely right about being prepared!! You never know when but having tools, materials and a little knowledge can really save you. I was setting up one day deploying the bedroom slide when I heard a noise you never want to hear. The rear slide topper bracket had pulled out of the sidewall and the topper was trying to retract over the slide roof. The sinking feeling of what have I done moved to what can I do. Out with the tool box and bin of screws, brackets and aluminum plate that I always carry. These RV's have so little structure in the walls I had to fabricate 2 backing plates and bolt the brackets right through the slide out wall. Stainless steel bolts, lock nuts, sealant and plate all on hand and job done and still working fine years later!

[@kathleenrutherford733]

Thank You Martin, you are such a blessing in my life, you have taught me how to do a lot of things myself. I am a beyond grateful for you and Joanie

[@jdjerew7563]

I keep a backup Magneto Stator and Rectifier with my Polaris Ranger SxS, w/ a backup battery ‘n battery isolator and all your typical emergency gear, traction pads, winch, battery starter, jumper cables, tire patch kit, tools, several radios, ACR plb, so if I’m out in the back country and something happens, I can deal with it. Love the videos, A+. “Prior, proper, planning, prevents, piss, poor, performance.” “Two is one, one is none.” Submariner Rule. I cannot stand not being able to do my own repairs. I love the video where you explain the crucial/critical items to have onboard your RV. After viewing your video I immediately purchased those items from your Amazon store. I have picked up so many nails, screws, bolts in my tires on my GMC Duramax and have averted catastrophe with a TPMS.

[@RVstreet]

NICE. Thank you so much for book marking our Amazon Store and using it to support Joanie & I. It means a lot. More than you know 💗

[@michaelcountssr.8445]

you would be proud of me and the wife. we did all of our upgrades to our motorhome ourselves. all but the front end alignment. local ford dealer wanted $1k to install rear centramatic rings and rear super steer. thanks for the new video and all you do for us all!

[@hamletxxx2776]

Excellent video packed with vital information.

[@daveinvictoriavirginia7959]

Martin, you hit it on the head. Just like being prepared for fires in the home, essential things like food , water ,meds. Phone calls priorities, etc. Part of relaxing to me is looking for the "what if" scenario, and how do I react. Always have fresh water in tank, always top off fuel when arriving. Little things can make big things easier to manage.

[@gypsybelle4757]

Thank you, Martin! You are one of my favorite parts of You Tube University. I have been learning from you since I discovered your channel. I know emergencies happen and thanks to you and others like you, the RV nomad lady is more prepared. I’m checking out your homepage for “Martinized” stickers. I feel like my RV needs one! 😃 Thank You and your other half for all you do for this community! All the best to you both in 2022!

[@RVstreet]

😍

[@edpeck645]

Martin, thank you for all the good information and advice on what we all need to get ready for, stay safe, stay warm, 20 to 25 below 0 tomorrow here in the north east. I will check out your list of videos, again, THANK YOU.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Ed for watching and staying engaged here in the comments. 👍

[@robbiesmith5169]

Great message regardless of what your home is, RV, boat, sticks & bricks. To many people think someone else will take care of them!

[@timcaviness5933]

Martin you and I are alot alike. I fix everything that I can and for other people. I've been told I'm a parts man, but if you don't have them your stuck in a pickle. Love your videos and your channel!!!!

[@brianevans4525]

Love your channel Martin I'm a retired truck driver and diesel tech and I live in my old 97 dodge grand caravan with 300,000 miles just put a new engine in it last year and I know my van like the back of my hand and people always ask why don't you buy a new van. ??? And I'm like why nothing is wrong with this one. I never break down because I stay on top of preventive maintenance. Very important hope people listen to you. Keep up the good work man

[@davidpatrick1813]

Better to have it an not need it than need it and not have it .... great suggestions ... now, action speaks louder than words .. .. always has always will.

[@dennispaddock7309]

we are at the fish or cut bait point of buying and going full time. After a year of research and thinking I have looked at every Class A known to have been manufactured I am amazed how many coaches have been just driven with no PM our upgrades. This sure makes it hard to get a unit that will have a extended life span without a major expense. Thank you for your efforts. lets just hope the horses led to water will start drinking. This is the "Scoundrel and the Duchess" wishing you both safe travels!

[@caseymartin6692]

Great video. Thanks for the motivation.

[@InChristalone737]

You are so right Martin. I have my coach in for two minor warranty issues. Two things I could probably fix myself but I decided to take it to the dealer since it was under warranty. They have had it one month and still have not fixed it. They dropped the ball on ordering the part. I had to lite a fire under them. We will see if that works in getting it done. I’m definitely on the martinize plan and have implemented many of your suggestions. Thanks again

[@John5ive]

Nothing but straight talk on this channel. Great video and topic. I posted the above before watching the while video. Long story short, I feel like I have a lot of work to do. I'm mechanically inclined and you've given me a few scenarios to solve for. Glad I subbed.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you John. Glad to have you aboard 👏 Go here to see a lot more of what I'm talking about to take care of your RV: kzbin.infoplaylists

[@dirkbergstrom9751]

Excellent advice and reminders for any RV'er, seasoned or newbie. My father always did his own work and as a result I do too (almost). Your mention of gas got me thinking though... without fuel most if us would be hooped... lots of solar or not, how do you go get groceries, etc? So far my only partial solutions are to have lots of light dry goods on hand, extra water + filters + MP1 tabs etc, conc water flavour crystals + squirts, and of course fishing + hunting gear. I wonder about putting a box of seeds together...

[@anthonylawlor9130]

Boy Scout leader here. The Boy Scouts motto:”Be Prepared “. Thanks Martin.

[@marydoherty7528]

Thank you Martin 😊

[@jeandumford9794]

Thanks! Im a senior disabled lady. I know how to do some things but not sure I can any more. I need to see, for instance, if I can still maneuver under my RV and check the genset oil. Wait! No... I need to see if I can push the gen door back up and secure it and get out from under the RV on my own! Lol

[@RVstreet]

😂 LOL 😂

[@ExamineLife4]

Excellent episode.

[@matsulli2086]

Love your PM instruction. Would love to hear more about redundant system ideas, spare parts you carry for your Winni, tools required for manual slide operations, maybe list of common Class A issues. Thanks for all your efforts!

[@RVstreet]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHW2nmeKoNWkapY

[@nomadicweatherbear]

My onboard generator croaked in my 2016 Thor axis. Was lucky to find a small generator shop that could fit me right in. But, at a cost. It was VERY labor intensive, removing and replacing the generator from the RV. Needed a new carburetor and starter. Wound up paying $1,700 dollars. Decided to buy a small backup generator for our next trip, we do a lot of boondocking. Thanks for another informative video! 😎

[@magpie_92]

I work for an rv service place. Thank you for speaking from your heart, I’m seeing first hand the gathering clouds!!!!! Our service place can’t keep up with all the unprepared and newbies, all the service places in town are drowning in the demand for service and supply issues (we at the West coast of Canada) Lack of basic troubleshooting knowledge, preparedness is rampant!!!!

[@stevemeyer4815]

great message Martin - I always learn something from your videos. I have quite a long way to go towards mastering our Class C 24 footer. My skill set is probably C- but you eat the elephant one bite at a time. enjoy and build on your successes. Thanks for the motivational encouragement. A fellow Texan but not a native.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Steve for taking the time to share and comment. You'll get there, just stay focused and refrain from getting overwhelmed. Took me 18 months to get our rig ready for full time living.👍

[@lynettehodnicki5240]

Some KZbin videos from other folks show us how NOT to do repairs and maintenance! Thank you for giving us good information so we can spot the ones who are misguided. Happy New Year to you and Joanie!

[@RVstreet]

Well Lynette you are so right about that. Thank you for saying that so I can elaborate for others. That's what I was saying about acquiring a body of knowledge. Watching videos on YT, reading blogs, RV forums, FB and other online sources are good places to gather information, learn and build a body of knowledge. But like you said, you have to use discernment and pick through the bones to get a little meat. One thing I've noticed that happens a lot on YT is many folks don't take the time to read the comments or go to the description text below each video. Not just on my channel but others as well. That's where a lot of additional questions are answered and the community adds-many times-helpful insight and additional tips. If folks just watch a video and then move on to something else they missed out on a lot of other good information below. I'd like to encourage folks to chase knowledge. Dig deeper and go further than the first layer.

[@billquailes7882]

I watched this last week without comment - Watched again this week. Excellent information as usual. Something else to consider when deciding what to RV to buy is to have an RV that is easier to maintain. I had a pull behind, and when I decided to buy a motorhome, I started looking at and researching a diesel pusher. When considering all the pros and cons, I ended up buying a 20 year old class A Ford F53 chassis lightly used with good bones, without a slide. I camp alone and do not need or want a slide, I see it as as potential trouble. While I consider diesel pushers great, they are more expensive to maintain, are much more difficult to maintain, and there are fewer places to get help if help is needed. This old Ford is simpler, there are a lot of Ford parts available, and if help is needed a Ford truck dealer is likely able to help, or provide spare parts. I am pretty well prepared for dealing with emergencies., I have tools and many must have spare parts. I keep gas and propane at at least 50 percent and have enough food and water to last a while.

[@NackDSP]

I just purchased an ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 2000W as a redundant power source. It fully charges in about two hours so that makes it very compatible with short generator runs, or getting it charged just before leaving an outlet without having to wait overnight or something.

[@eddiedoherty2349]

Nice video to give us food for thought. Last year, entered a nice rural state park in NC with less than 1/2 on MH. Colonial pipeline happened. Luckily bought two gas cans, different stores and got 35 gallons driving to stations. We reacted late, but not too late. If not we couldn’t make our next destination. I hated that uncertainty for a week. I try to enter my destination with a full tank. It went downhill fast in NC.

[@williamrussell4768]

Thank you for all your videos 😊

[@josephineclifford8480]

Excellent!

[@trustme7731]

I carry a fuel filter, fuel pump, spark plug, oil and air filter for my generator and can install all myself. I carry a spare tire, tools to change it, a triangle set, safety vests and can do myself. I carry much more food than we expect to need. I keep my water tank full and safe for drinking. I'll be getting a spare water pump and certain parts for the furnace and water heater. Refer parts are new. I keep my propane topped off and I carry a 20 lb spare. I keep the gas tank topped off when I can. I'm adding a 6 gallon gasoline tank that will be connected to the generator along with the vehicle tank. This gasoline could be put in the vehicle tank if needed. I'm considering tire chains although they are heavy. We carry winter gear everywhere. I carry fuses for the vehicle and coach. I carry an electric heater and a propane torch along with enough tools. I turn the water and/or the pump off when I leave and at night. I carry the water system blow out fitting in case of unavoidable freezing. I do all my own vehicle maintenance and repairs. I keep engine oil and filters at home. I guess I can throw a filter in in case I need to pay to have it done but I don't carry the things to do an oil change. I carry 1 quart for the engine. We don't usually travel more than 3,000 miles at a time. I now use the higher end Wix which is available at nationwide parts stores. In a pinch, there's always a Amsoil dealer nearby. The coach and truck batteries are fresh Interstates. During periods of not being used, I drive it monthly 30 miles, when the roads are clean and dry, with the generator running under half load and the furnace. I have no plans to invest in solar. Good video. You are right, most people NEVER plan for the unexpected. I have always criticized people in the path of a hurricane, snow storm etc. that rush out at the last minute to by plywood, snow blowers, shovels and generators. What the hell did they do with all that stuff from the last time?

[@RVstreet]

Now that's what I'm talking about. Great job. Now you do have what a lot of us FTer's don't have and that's a house to go back to, so we have to carry everything with us. Good comment 👍

[@williamastorino9551]

Great video once again! The old Boy Scout Motto......BE PREPARED! I keep saying that a person that owns any kind of RV needs to be part mechanic (with tools) and have a little common sense! When we started, my wife said "what do you need take all of those tools for? She is seeing why now! I'm still missing some things I need, even if it is only once!

[@b4aftermatch257]

very true my man thnks for the tips

[@RVstreet]

The RV Odd Couple video I watched that prompted me to make this video is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5zEnJhtjamknLM You can't be prepared for every single thing that might happen. That would be impossible. But.....by taking the proper steps that I have covered over the past 2 or 3 years, you can certainly be prepared for the most common things that can happen and emergencies. By doing proper PM-and checking the RV often-you can eliminate a lot of bad things from happening in the first place. kzbin.infoplaylists If you want to get better prepared with the stuff I have onboard or better equip your RV, please don't forget to check out our Amazon Store and book mark it to use every time you need anything on Amazon. It's a great way to say thank you for taking the time to make these videos and helping the RV community. www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet I have on my list to do a video on critical spare parts that I carry and that RVer's in general should have with them. So look for that in the future. But I have done a 3 part series already that covers some of what every RVer should do and have with them at all times. Part 1 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/i2rRk2dmop5gf7s Part 2 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJymiYWYq9mij6M Part 3 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z2W9oGuMoNuba9E *And lastly….* Lynette made a good comment below so I thought I’d share that with you in case you missed it She said... Some KZbin videos from other folks show us how NOT to do repairs and maintenance! Thank you for giving us good information so we can spot the ones who are misguided. *My reply….* Lynette you are so right about that. Thank you for saying that so I can elaborate for others. That's what I was saying about acquiring a body of knowledge. Watching videos on YT, reading blogs, RV forums, FB and other online sources are good places to gather information, learn and build a *body of knowledge*. But like you said, you have to use discernment and pick through the bones to get a little meat. One thing I've noticed that happens a lot on YT is many folks don't take the time to read the comments or go to the description text below each video. Not just on my channel but others as well. That's where a lot of additional questions are answered and the community adds-many times-helpful insight and additional tips and cautions. If folks just watch a video and then move on to something else they missed out on a lot of other good information below. I'd like to encourage folks to chase knowledge. Dig deeper and go further than the first layer.

[@rvtv_mpls]

6 months ago I bought a 27 year old class A Winnebago (Artemis) with the intention of living full time for the first time in Minnesota. Without your channel I’m convinced we would have frozen to death. Currently sitting in the RV with outside temps in the teens and my water bays a toasty 60+. Seriously, thank you so much for your content. BTW I gave myself a solid B+ on your what if readiness quiz!

[@RVstreet]

WOW, our channel a life saver. That's humbling. But obviously you've implemented a lot of common sense elements that you've learned to stay warm, stay safe and be ready. Thank you so much for your kind words 😍

[@norme2681]

Martin we live in a country were over 50% expects the government to take care of them and another 25% hope the government will help them out if they need it. RVers not much different most go to the shop or call someone. Some don't have their health, some prefer to just pay someone. I like you, while I can I prefer doing it myself. Thanks to your channel I'm better prepared to do that. Just in the last month or so, I replaced my converter, the fabric on slide toppers, installed a fan inside the fridge and cleaned the drain tube, and still have several projects to work on. There is no way a guy can be bored living in a RV always somethng to do.

[@vincesimmons621]

Well said.!! Hello from Florida.

[@rvvideoswiththomyt5263]

Thank you for the great INFO! People hopefully will listen and make a list! ThomyT

[@owasso55]

martin maybe you should make a spread sheet of the parts and things we should have on hand

[@gordschultz1980]

Great video as always Martin. I work in supply chain/procurement and you are spot on. For the next 1-2 years there will be global supply issues across more than just the RV industry. If you find what you want now I suggest getting it. The cost of shipping spiked during the initial outbreak of covid, but has calmed down a little, but the prices are still way higher than pre-covid so that cost will get passed to the consumer. The other thing I was always told is this is a depreciating asset (which of course it is), but they aren't dropping as much in the past so taking care of this investment will pay off for you in the next few years if you plan on selling.

[@eddiedoherty2349]

Gord makes a really good point. Typically RV are a depreciating asset. It’s possible a well maintained and cared for RV might be break even or make a profit.

[@jespo27]

Martin, I could not agree more, great vid. My motto " better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. " Be prepared , boy scout motto. extremely appropriate in these crazy times. Great job of lighting a fire under peoples butts to try to get them learning and to be prepared and dont fall into the complacency rut. Buy the way, your vid that said you found a heater hose that was about to rupture, I pulled my doghouse to insulate and sound proof after i watched one of your vids, guess what I found ....? a rubbed almost through hose that was a short time from blowing. also was kinked and restricted. You definitely saved me from a nightmare. If you're ever in Vegas, I owe you and your bride a dinner. Thanks for all your effort. I really enjoy your vids, they have helped me immensely I appreciate you. Joe

[@RVstreet]

Good eyes 👍 I know what heater hose your talking about. Mine was doing the same thing 5yrs. ago when I first bought our coach and I was going thru the engine bay looking for possible failure points. I not only replaced the hose but I put some split loom around it so that wouldn't ever happen again.

[@mtnpeek6748]

Another great video. Thanks Martín for showing us how to do things. I just wish you had the same class c that I have.

[@RVstreet]

Well most of the stuff I cover applies to a Class C too even though I have a Class A.

[@bobabooie6389]

Things were better a couple years ago 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@warrenscorner]

You made some excellent points. I ran into a problem with my truck recently. The check engine light came on which always means it’s gonna cost me $1000 to make it go off. I checked the code to see if it was something I could take of myself. It was a DEF heater issue. Well, I’m not in a position to remove my DEF tank and replace the heater so I call a shop. It’s an older truck so I don’t go to the dealer anymore. The shop confirmed my diagnosis but tells me he can’t find a heater. The dealers don’t want to sell him the parts they have because they won’t have any for their shops. The truck has been there for 5 days now. He finally found a place willing to sell him the part so hopefully I will get the truck back today. You can try to be as prepared as possible but sometimes you need to rely on other people.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Warren 👍 Well your right. You can't be prepared for every single thing that might happen. That would be impossible. But.....by taking the proper steps that I have covered over the past 2 or 3 years, you can certainly be prepared for the most common things that can happen and by doing proper PM and checking the RV often you can eliminate a lot of them from happening in the first place.

[@kentkurt9065]

Awsome vid ! Growing up on a farm , one thing i learned when i was young when i thought i was prepaired i wasnt ! Lol .just Well prepaired enough to make something work for now till i get what i need. Thinking getting on the road this sumer . Hope we see you guys somewhere . We are getting to know our rv now . Im well diverse in fixing just about anything . Just worried a bit about finding work ! Cold weather living tip foam around your doors, and windows make sure you use window and door spray foam keep in mind it should be flexalbe to flex with your rv . Im in heating and air con. Bus Somthing to keep in mind a 1" round hole in the winter is like having a 6" round hole in the summer . This is because the temp swing in the winter from 70° inside rv to - 20° out side rv is 90° temp swing . verse 70°in rv in the sumer, to 100° out side rv is only a 30° swing . Now keep in mind you could have a -40° wind chil . Your rv may not be able to retain the heat at wind chil. One way to over come is to have multipal heat soucers keeping amprage in mind . At -4° when we started our work my rv furnace was on for 15 min and off 15min . Still working on things the rv. furnace is now on for 10min , off for 20min . Still have some thing to do . going to have three sources of heat soon . All dc hopfull my calculations that my ac to dc inverter charger still will be able to run it . Still finding ways to keep lp tanks from freezing i habe some ideas want to make it all self contained so i can use what i have on the rv , without any addtions. Hope this helps your veiwers ! Love your channel

[@RVstreet]

Way to go Kent. Don't know if you've seen this video or not, but here's what I did to improve to keep heat in and make it easier to cool in the summer. Doing these things had made all the difference in the world in our RV. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6K9m3hqlqqim80

[@larrymiller8210]

Martin, used your advice and painted all my motorhome decals. Came out fantastic. Used small tape for all curves. Taped and papered, sanded, used wax and grease removal followed by rubbing alcohol. Used 3 coats white flat primer, 3 coats color, 2 to 3 coats clear coat. Came out really nice! Thanks for the idea. Took about 2 weeks work, but we'll worth it. You were right, paint covered all cracks in decals. Started mine after you gave one year review on yours with good results. Used Restolem paint as you. Thanks for your advice. You have your collective s@#% together.

[@mikereid280]

I painted a couple of my graphics too. Cleaned, primed, painted and clear coat. Came out great but after about 9 months the underlying graphics continued cracking and exposed more of the light gelcoat underneath. I'm considering ordering replacement vinyl graphics.

[@larrymiller8210]

@@mikereid280 thanks for the reply! Retired and trying to keep the graphics nice for awhile. I checked into total paint around $15,000. I am with you, want my old motorhome look as good as it can. I guess I have the option to spend $250,000 for full paint job on new motorhome. I guess cheep is not always good! But we look good for awhile, thanks for the respond! Keep on trucking! Thanks Larry

[@europro11]

My years in the military have always kept me on top of sh$!. Good speech sarge!!

[@jimshelton2031]

Well done video Martin. Thank you for helping us get our minds set for emergencies that will probably happen. I have watched several of your videos and am amazed at the instruction in them. I need to know what your recipe is for your sanitize bottle for spraying around your black water area. I know you use bleach but you said in one of your videos you have your own recipe. Will you share that with us? Thank you for all you are doing to help us newbies with our RV's. RVing for 3 months.

[@Nomadiccamping]

Good video

[@brucefay5126]

Hey Martin. In your three types of RVers (~7 min mark) I think you left out an important group; extended-time, such as “snowbirds”. These folks have a fixed/home base (not an RV) but live in their RV for months at a time, either in one place or moving around.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Bruce for taking the time to comment 👍 Yeah I didn't mention them by name nor did I mention Winter Texans which is what they call snow birds down here in RGV. But in my mind they're just like us. Living and traveling in their RV. But no matter how you use your RV were all important and face the same things taking care of the RV and being prepared.

[@lindaward3156]

Speaking from an older rural new Englander, l don't recall my parents "teaching" us how to be prepared for the heavy winters of my youth andor the inability to get to towns away grocery stores, but we learned nevertheless by example. Having the large vegetable gardens and canning or how to even stretch out whole fresh tomatoes etc. Chickens for fresh eggs even on the smallest of properties, how to fix an en engine, how they basically work, how to find freshwater even under ice. Foraging in the woods, how sweet the blueberries are, l could go on forever. We don't get to do that so much anymore but now there's a lot more info except it's all connected to having power it seems. l support what you're saying 100% be prepared as the alternative is no fun and can even cost you a lot more than money.

[@RVstreet]

Spoken like a true New Englander 😍 🙏

[@lindaward3156]

@@RVstreet you mean all the typos? 😁😎

[@Zzwineaux]

Martin in September we bought a Tiffin Allegro 2003 motorcoach so I could take my disabled husband to Texas to see his grandson get married. If I had known about you & your videos before, I wouldn't have bought this RV. But we did. There is soooo much that needs martinize. There is rust everywhere! One of the hydraulic levels won't work & we are on a waiting list to have it fixed. Furnace won't work. I have bought controller board, limit switch & igniter to fix it myself. I feel overwhelmed because there is so much to do & I only have one day a week to work on it. I have a full time job & not only do I take care of my husband & 4 cats but I help my sister one day a week with my mother. I love the RV no matter how much work there has to be done. But after watching your videos I feel like I can do it. One project at a time. It took me forever to find the hot water heater bypass valve so I could sanitize my water system. I have all my manuals but in this case the manual said there was a bypass valve but didn't say where. Thanks to you I got an endoscopy & found it. I got a long ways to go but I am going to do it as time & money allows. You will never know how much your videos have helped. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Mat the Good Love bless you & Joanie!

[@RVstreet]

Ya, don't get overwhelmed but I understand how easy it is to get that way with a schedule like yours. Like you said, "One project at a time." I'm so impressed with you CAN DO attitude. By the time you knock out this punch list, you'll know your coach a whole lot more. You'll get there.

[@susanhawkes2519]

I am currently refusing to take delivery on my first RV, a toy hauler, because one of the ramp door handles looked hard to open & lightly gouged during the Zoom walkthrough. Probably a good call in light of your reported issues in parts & service time. Thanks for inspiring me to stick to my guns of postponing or preventing a purchase that would ultimately destroy my unhealthy wrists. I will try to buy through your AMZ program anyway because you are such a generous teacher.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Susan. Additional thoughts: Using a Zoom call for a walk thru is a bad idea. Sound like they are using a Zoom call to act as their (PDI - Pre-Delivery inspection). There is no way you can physically look and test all the systems to make sure everything is working properly. Once you take possession of the rig all bets are off to get anything fixed later on. A Zoom call may be OK for an initial determination that you want to proceed with the purchase BUT then you insist-in writing-to give them a Refundable deposit to hold the rig, but then you go to, fly to or whatever and get to the dealership, have them park them unit with full hookups, and actually stay in the RV for at least a day or two and test EVERYTHING. Then present them a list of what has to be fixed BEFORE you give them final payment or process papers to finalize the purchase. They have incentive now to fix everything to complete the sale. Once they say everything has been fixed....CHECK IT. If you don't do it this way-AGAIN-getting things fixed after purchase will be difficult at best. Also, thank you for using my Amazon Store for whatever you need. It means more than you know 💕

[@susanhawkes2519]

@@RVstreet I have not signed anything electronically nor on paper, but did put $1k down on a credit card to hold it for me, presumably from other interested buyers. I will not go any further with the sale. Too much money & WAY too many systems to go wrong. Thanks for supporting me backing out of a bad way to do this kind of purchase. I am so grateful to have found you & Joanie. ❤️

[@glennnewton4170]

Because of a death in the family we haven't taken the trailer out in a couple months and we had a lot of snow the last couple weeks, we will be going on a 5 day shake down next week to make sure we haven't picked up any problems

[@johnsanford4569]

AMEN brother.

[@bluestarhealingangels9162]

What if …it’s real we try to prepare even more at home & on the road & for our camper( until things gets better) or better yet we need to be prepared & just make it a part of all our everyday life…yeap learn to be smarter learning & doing is important good info ✔️

[@kathyparker8626]

Let's face it some people just don't have any business owning a RV without the quick access and support we use to have. Watching your videos and a lot of research hopefully will keep someone from making a mistake owning something beyond their abilities. Freightliner just charged over $11,000 to rebuild a DEF system and reprogram the onboard computers on a friend's RV and took over 3 weeks. Owning a large RV may be a thing of the past for some of us.

[@RVstreet]

I think your exactly right going forward. This was the main reason I didn't buy a DP and bought a gas coach instead. I mean, I have an emergency fund but being retired, I just don't have that kinda cash laying around for something that may pop up. I know of a fella that over heated his gas rig in Arizona a couple of years ago and trashed his V10. He had the whole engine replaced for $5,600 and it took 2 weeks.

[@rvhome5599]

How many spare parts are you going to carry along, besides all the tools it will get very heavy, you better make sure you are not over your weight limits folks. We have a friend who is an accident investigator and he told us if your RV is overweight and you get in any kind of accident you will be in big trouble . Martin good advise as always

[@timothyculliver1993]

Great Job, good to be a country boy. We will try to fix anything!!😂😂😂

[@kentkurt9065]

I thimk of myself prepared always r9om for improvements.

[@tedcolclazier8126]

Made me think

[@bobelder18]

Great video. Good thing I have watched most of your videos, I did pretty good on the test! Thank you

[@RVstreet]

Then you get an "A". Good job Bob 👍 Question: Did you do my homework assignment?

[@bobelder18]

@@RVstreet I guess that moves me to a C. 😂. Was the home work on this video?

[@RVstreet]

@@bobelder18 yes it was.

[@bobelder18]

@@RVstreet I went back and watched. To the end. And yes, I have note books of items. I have put all the tools I think I will need. I inspect my rv every time we stop. The list of things I need are growing from the original video I watched of you yours about how to make the outside look new again. So I will say, the home work never ends thanks to what you have instilled in me about every life. I have the spares started, and will have them with me always. All because of someone like you that helps us be better at enjoying the RV. 👍

[@RVstreet]

@@bobelder18 😎 🙏

[@garnettburk6126]

I bought my first RV knowing nothing about one My Dad and Brother are. both simi drivers ,so I was already comfortable with diesel and large rigs Your videos have been a godsend ,thank you so much

[@naderjunaid6733]

Martin, I have a good one for you which happened to me over 10 years ago. " What do you do when you loose the rearview mirror from either side (gets hit by something). No quick fix Unless you are lucky and it takes time to order and get the exact match. but I was able to manage it to stick it to its broken base as it had some crap laying around in my tool box, ( no tape would hold it to the body as the rear view mirrors are real heavy and roads are bumpy. Its very very dangerous to drive an RV without either side of rearview mirror.

[@reneemorris9907]

80-90% myself~~~ yayayayayaaaaa!!!! i'm a full timer looking for your winterization tips for a mobile full timer

[@RVstreet]

I probably will never do a winterization tips video because I too am a FTer and travel all the time. So I never need to winterize so wouldn't be able to demonstrate.

[@richardberger326]

Martin for what it’s worth, I use the same oil filter has you and Walmart no longer stocks the item however you can order it on Amazon for the same price as Walmart and less money than the dealerships. I ordered 3 because I change my oil 3 times per year. Just check Amazon they have now bump the price to $6.97 however Walmart is still charging $3.97 you just need to buy enough items to get for shipping $25 worth which is no problem for us. Anyway things are not has bad as we think. The news media is very good about spreading fear along with some KZbin channels. Cheers and may 2022 be the best year ever for you folks. 👍

[@jackharding98]

Martin actually has the filter on his Amazon store page. You might use that in the future. I suspect he was using the term "dealer" as a general term to make his point. 🙂

[@RVstreet]

Good insight Jack 👍 www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet

[@rickcampbell4920]

Another great video Martin! Which video where you referring too on the RV Odd Couple channel? Thank you!

[@RVstreet]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5zEnJhtjamknLM

[@rickcampbell4920]

Thanks Martin!

[@frankcates3909]

Self reliant. OK, then PPE. N95 masks, Soap&water, anti-bacterial hand sanitizer, etc, etc, etc, etc, and don't forget to wear than neon green or olde standby- orange safety vest when you step out onto the highway to check & change that flat tire.

[@RVstreet]

This video is about becoming more knowledgable and self reliant on doing your own RV maintenance DIY. But thanks for watching 😝

[@visamedic]

That’s crazy. I’ve been a prepper when we were called “survivalists”, so I’ve been ready to go, if needs be since before we bought out first used 15’ Komfort Lite. That thing was little, but very much good to go. First thing I did was upgraded from the single propane tank to a double set up. Then from the single 12v battery to a duel 6v setup, then added a 15w solar panel that actually really kicked a$$ considering LEDs weren’t even conceived yet. From there we upgraded to 20’, then another, now I have a 27’. All have been ready to go, including a full water tank as well as 4 extra 5 gallon jugs with a cut off hose attachment to be able to refill the tank, on top of food and medical supplies that are stored in it. I am having an issue with the electrical in the bedroom area, keeps popping fuses. The heater motor went out this last season, and the motor should be here in the next week. I’m divorced now so I don’t really need that particular trailer. I think I’m going to finish it up and sell it after I finish the build I’m doing now. I am purposely building this in a way that it will pretty much be completely off the grid except a constant water source. It’s taken A LOT of KZbin videos and online looking, but everything will be a fairly inexpensive and easily sourced parts, right down to the inverter. Solar, wood stove, LEDs to sip at my power, the toilet is still kinda up in the air, but I am leaning to a composting or composting type toilet. Biggest issue is materials, but when it’s done, it’ll have an spare charge controller, inverter, on top of the little stuff for it and whatever vehicle is towing it. Being a backpacker it will be carrying that gear with resupply which includes a stove and back country hunting/survival gear. If you have an RV TREAT IT LIKE A SECOND HOME because it might be for a while should something go down.

[@RVstreet]

You see that's what I'm talking about. Thinking things through and them putting things in place that suit your needs.

[@visamedic]

@@RVstreet oh yeah. And in my opinion you’re never really done. Things change. I’m divorced and over 50 now, so I can downsize comfortably and still have everything I need and then some. Always a work in progress. Improvise, Adapt, and Overcome.

[@RVstreet]

@@visamedic 🇺🇸 🙏

[@brianevans4525]

Lol funny I'm from New Orleans and I'm a Katrina survivor. Had 20 ft of water in my house. Love new Mexico hell with new Orleans