Rear-Ended on Moving Day! 😢 SnapPad Follow-Up and More Slide Topper Issues…

[@kareniceland]

Glad everyone is good. And it went easy so far.

[@pedro1970maya]

On rainy days, when you are concerned about waterlogged slide toppers, consider disengaging the automatic level, and deliberately unleveling the rig. If you have a step ladder, get something long that will not poke the material to kind of push up from under the slide toppers, on either end. You can also tuck in one of those hard foam large body rollers that people use while exercising, to the extent it can gently tucked in to raise the slide topper. Those can be cut to size, and tent-up the center of the slide topper.

[@williamcaple809]

Possibly a beach ball or inner tubes to hold the slide toppers up. Put an inflated inner tube on the slide roof and it will press the awning material up.

[@Five2Go]

Beach balls are first on my list to try!

[@williamcaple809]

@@Five2Go awesome! They should work great. Glad everyone is ok from the accident! Love seeing the vids keep it up!🙂

[@ronymorrison917]

Try SHOWNEW Garden Hose Quick Connectors for your hoses, love those!

[@sherriweber7105]

Hi again! Just saw this video. Glad to know about the water on the slide and to be careful when there is water on the slide. That’s great to know. Sorry about you car. Glad you all were ok. And you car is fixed by now. I like those snap pads they really seem to work. I remember you doing a video on them. Great job with those Brian. Glad Erin has you around. See you all soon! Take care.

[@372mkelly]

You are at Thousand Trails campground in Clermont. Thank goodness he hit the van (sorry Kids) and not the Bounder!!!

[@WILDEBILL308]

A good way to drain your slide topper and the top of the slide is to use your jacks to tilt the coach. I find this will get the water to drain faster and more completely.

[@pukwudjivc]

I helped my dad cut some sheets of rigid foam insulation that fits the width from the drum to the top where the slide topper is attached to the roof. When he gets where he's going he pulls out a ladder and slides the foam board in and it keeps the sag out of the slide topper. It works well for him. For the longer slides he just stores the 8' sheet inside on the floor of the rig during travel. Another option if you don't want the rigid board, maybe dollar store air mattresses...

[@Five2Go]

So the foam is wedged in right underneath the fabric making a ramp? That's an interesting idea. The slide is 15' long though so carrying something that long around would be a huge pain. I think I'm going to try beach balls or pool noodles first and move on to something more elaborate if those don't work. This is an interesting idea though - maybe it can be done in pieces instead of one huge sheet...

[@pukwudjivc]

@@Five2Go We set it up to make a ramp that was almost horizontal, just tipped up at the roof side. You can also make them so they work vertically as well. You also don't have to have a 15' length of it. You can make two 5' pieces and stick them a foot or so in from each end. Then they'd be short enough to fit in your passthrough. This is the kind of thing I'm talking about: www.lowes.com/pd/Common-1-in-x-4-ft-x-8-ft-Actual-0-9375-in-x-3-875-ft-x-7-875-ft-R-Expanded-Polystyrene-Foam-Board-Insulation/3365576

[@davidsmith3325]

Foam pipe insulator they come in different sizes for your Toppers

[@Five2Go]

I've got an inflatable pool noodle arriving today that I'm going to try out. It should be long enough to make it easy to put in and big enough around to give the fabric some slope. We'll see what happens!

[@ronwilson7790]

To get the water off your slide toppers can you raise one corner of the rig to increase the slope front to back just before you slide it in.

[@richt.4900]

On the slide topper issue, I wonder whether an inflatable ball would help you . If it was positioned in the middle when the slides are out and removed when ready to retract them. I suggested an inflatable ball to create enough height and to allow it to be deflated for storage etc... At this point I would also consider putting a sticker over the slide out button when using anything to help with the water pooling issue, just to remind you that the balls/obstacles are still in place and could cause costly damage to something should you forget that they was still there.

[@Five2Go]

I'm going to try a beach ball or some other type of inflatable first actually. I just discovered inflatable pool noodles on Amazon - just have to see if they're big enough in diameter!

[@adriannurse1502]

I am glad everyone is okay. Cars can be fixed. People can't always. When we had to take our RV into the body shop they had it for two months. It takes a specialty shop to paint one of those big RV's. They told us upfront that doing the estimate and dealing with the insurance company usually takes two weeks. Then the shop was booked for a month so we had to wait our turn. Fortunately home was only 3 1/2 hours away and we had our tow car. So we loaded the car and drove home. I don't know what we would have done if we were far away from home.

[@Five2Go]

Oh man, that's tough. We don't have a home to drive back to if something happens to our RV, so it's better the van got smacked than the rig!

[@adriannurse1502]

@@Five2Go Yes it is! And much cheaper too. There wasn't much damage. The insurance company paid for it, but the cost was about $22,500. 😭😭😭

[@Five2Go]

Holy cow!

[@rayeisen508]

You could use a beach ball on the slide out to push it up more to make the water roll off more. Also love the zero g hose. I also added a wick connect fittings to the RV and to the hose.

[@Five2Go]

I'm going to try a beach ball, pool noodles, and may even try and make something out of PVC if neither of those work.

[@leslie476]

To unload all of the water from the slide out awnings we always retracted the leveling Jack's first that way it does not stress them out

[@Five2Go]

I've tried that before with the old toppers and it worked OK. I think propping the fabric up will help a ton though.

[@mnmandthegang]

glad Erin is ok, safe travels

[@Five2Go]

Thank you!

[@kdkay4039]

Put pool noodle under your slide topper it helped us a great deal just don’t forget to pull them out.

[@roydavis2242]

I know they're a bit costly, but Magne Shades™ are a blessing. I like the way Newmar does the slide toppers. The roller is attached to the side of the motorhome. Many motorhome owners carry boards that they can put under wheels to get as close to level as possible before hitting auto level. I have a dash-cam in all or vehicles so there is no he said vs she said.

[@Five2Go]

I've looked at the MagneShades and they are super expensive, but there really aren't many other options out there for the windshield.

[@kriskris9330]

Use pvc pipe like for a sprinkler system & make a support for under the topper to keep the rain from pooling. You can make it as big or little as needed with 45 & 90 degree angles & it’s light weight.

[@Five2Go]

That has crossed my mind as a solution but I haven't sketched anything out yet. I think my main concern with pvc would be making sure it doesn't damage the top of the slide if it moves around at all. I've got some brainstorming to do!

[@robertoliver6980]

You may need to re calibrate your auto on the leveling system. Mine did the same thing until I re calibrated it. If you don't have the manual for the leveling system you can down load it from the internet.

[@Five2Go]

It definitely gets level when I run the auto process, but the order in which it raises things makes it go higher than it needs to. Does the calibration fix that somehow?

[@robertoliver6980]

I've only done 2 or 3 times after auto level lifted wheels off ground. After those times auto didn't lift wheels off ground for awhile. In those 2 or 3 times it could of been coincidence that auto didn't lift wheels for awhile.

[@michaelcunningham2899]

That can be scary. Especially with kids in the van. Thankfully it was not serious. Stay safe and cool! Thanks for the video.

[@Five2Go]

Everyone's healthy and the damage could've been a lot worse! Thanks Michael!

[@robinmorgan9429]

Beach balls on top of slides to topper

[@Five2Go]

An inflatable ball of some sort is my first plan of attack...

[@ncylee4]

First thing I thought of was pool noodles under that slide topper

[@bnaudie]

I lower the jacks before pulling in slides, like you did. But.... whichever way it's already tipped, I manually run the front or back jacks to tip it a little further. It doesn't take much, and the rest of the water runs off completely.

[@Five2Go]

I did that before replacing the slide topper to get standing water off of the slides and it worked pretty well. I know motorhome slides are a bit sturdier than the ones in our travel trailer were but it still weirds me out to have them out when we're not level!

[@johnlasher7994]

The topper is catching on the slide and bowing and not allowing it to retract, Our daughter has a 13 foot topper on her slide and it was doing the same thing. We raised the topper a couple of inches up and it stopped that problem and you tension should keep the topper tight and allow the water to run off and not pool on the topper it may need to be tightened.

[@Five2Go]

I've watched it go in and out from above and it's not catching on the side itself, I think it's all due to the bowing in the drum. I can't raise mine any more on either end unless I somehow added a new rail on the upper edge/curve of the sidewall. That would definitely make water run off better, but I don't think I can drive screws in up there.

[@johnlasher7994]

@@Five2Gowatching your video it appears that there isn't enough tension on the topper to keep it taunt so water doesn't pool on it and as you close it should be rewinding it causing any sticks, leaves or water to run off to end. There are youtube videos as to add tension to your drum spring to keep it tight. Is the center of your drum touching the slider while it is closing causing it not to retract? If that is the case it might have been like that before you got the camper and you might have to replace it. I started watching you when you bought it and fixed it up. Good luck. and safe travels

[@tinawiththelakeexchange2093]

I had that happen last year at a crosswalk. Nothing scarier than seeing a pickup truck coming at you and I had no where to go! Glad you are safe and it confirms why you have to wear seat belts.

[@Five2Go]

Our cars don't move if everyone isn't buckled, that's for sure!

[@barbarapoirier8835]

Driving on 27 is a nightmare. I have been rearended three times, all tied to red lights. I am glad no one got hurt.

[@Five2Go]

The roads around here are pretty crowded, and no one is paying attention!

[@barbarapoirier8835]

Five2Go you should see the traffic when Disney and other companies are fully operational. It is crazy! Stay safe and I hope you enjoy yourselves!

[@annemarsden2323]

Glad that you are all okay 💗💗

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Anne!

[@Elizabeth-rq1vi]

Hope Erin was able to lay down to relax & get rid of the headache!💕. Glad the guy had insurance! Back of our house faces west & it can get hot in the bedrooms-even in our weird summers!

[@Five2Go]

This spot faces east so it's a little better in the afternoon, but it's hot here no matter what! 🔥😂🔥

[@hoss1003]

Accidents happen' glad everyone is Ok. Slide toppers. Like the other guy said inflatable balls or raft. We use an inflatable canoe about 6' on one slide and 2 balls each under the other two. But' have a heavy twine or string' duck taped to them' to pull them out. We don't inflate them all the way. Unless we're using them on the water.

[@Five2Go]

That's the first time I've seen someone say inflatable canoe! Does that get you some funny looks in the campground? 😋

[@hoss1003]

@@Five2Go Never noticed.. I slide it in between the topper and the slide top and inflate with a long airhose. When we leave, I just open the air release valve and remove it. As for taking it to the river or lake, I fill it up and carry on my head. So, I don't really see anyone looking at me, which could be a good thing. It works great, but don't use it in river rapids..

[@brendaloyd907]

Glad all are ok. I thought the class a was rear ended.

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Brenda!

[@brendaloyd907]

Five2Go praying y’all have a blessed wonderful accident free week. And the repair goes smoothly.

[@_GntlStone_]

Re:Slide toppers: what about 2 or 3 body length inflatable pool floats?

[@georgeannepanos8132]

If you don't 'create your own adventure', someone is always willing to create one for ya! (glad all are ok). :-)

[@Five2Go]

Haha, so true! Thanks Georgeanne!

[@cindyplace3258]

Glad no-one was hurt. Stay safe.

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Cindy!

[@jeffdurling100]

Brian, take a look at your slide topper. I agree that water is causing issues, especially due to the size, that being said your spring tension seems weak. Just by the stuttering toward the end and bringing the slide it it seemed off. On a side note sorry to hear about the accident you guys had. Personally, being two Florida can be from living there, I would have got a police report. As long as he's honest you'll be fine. Thing is he can dispute the accident because you didn't get one. Hopefully it does;t take too, too long to get fixed but remember right now in the age of covid, parts are harder to come by as well. It may take more time due to that. Not matter, enjoy yourselves and have fun.

[@Five2Go]

I think the topper is stuttering because of the bend in the tube - the springs are pulling but every full rotation of the tube is where it pops. If we can keep water from pooling up too much it'll be better, but I may end up pulling things back down and tinkering with it a bit. As for van repairs, everything is working just fine. The liftgate is dented but it still opens, closes, and locks properly. If repairs and parts take a while it's not a big deal, it's just ugly to look at. Thanks Jeff!

[@hogan_paulvlogs4392]

Love you guys

[@Five2Go]

Thank you!

[@sammiepuppy4196]

Glad no one was hurt. The slide toppers can be a pain. Looking forward to your solution with the water pooling on the topper. Stay safe and healthy

[@Five2Go]

Our last rig didn't have them and I always thought about installing them. I'm glad I didn't. It's nice to not have to get up there and sweep junk off the top of the slides, but now I have to deal with all that pooling water. You just can't win with those things! 😂

[@sammiepuppy4196]

You are so fortunate that you are handy and had a friend who was able to help you replace the topper fabric. We just had four toppers replaced and they cost us a lot of money as this is something we cannot do.

[@Five2Go]

The fabric wasn't too bad but I know RV mechanics are suuuuuper expensive. We'll DIY as much as we can!

[@andreafoxcroft8420]

Omg 😳 thank God you guys are safe 🙏

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Andrea! We're glad it was the van and not the motorhome to be honest!

[@aprildawn8692]

It's a bummer that your van was damaged, but I'm so happy to hear that nobody was hurt. We have the same issue with our auto level, so my husband manually does it also. It is pretty scary to watch it do its thing and be confident that it isn't going to do something weird and fly away. Can you imagine it flying away? 🤭🤭🤭

[@Five2Go]

Haha! When it goes up too much I feel like I'm floating away in the driver's seat! 😂😂😂

[@aprildawn8692]

@@Five2Go 😅😅

[@sherrylauretani9996]

Glad your ok and at least he was nice. Stay safe!

[@delmarsbeensaved8569]

Try an inflatable beach toy for the area under the slide topper .It would even be useful in the winter to ovoid ice forming which is really a big problem 🤔 if you don't prevent water from sitting there

[@Five2Go]

That's on my list to try out! No ice worries though - we're never camping in freezing weather again 😜

[@RockyFoxxowo]

Those slide toppers seem to be a bit of a bother, I saw in your rear cam that a ram srt-10 had passed you (imagine towing using a viper engine lol) but I reccomend basically a dollar store tiny pool floating rectangle under them

[@Five2Go]

Yeah, they're being quite the pain. We'll get it sorted out eventually 😋

[@StevenDragoo]

Grab a cheap set of walkie-talkies when you travel. Lots of uses and doesn't need wifi...

[@Five2Go]

We started off with walkie talkies and they're more hassle than they're worth if you ask me. You have to remember to charge them, and, even worse, they take up a hand to use. The delay with walkie talkies and having to hit buttons to talk just drove us nuts. We just talk hands-free (via Bluetooth) on our phones when backing into sites and it's much better. We've only been in one campground with zero cell signal so connections haven't really been an issue either.

[@StevenDragoo]

@@Five2Go Interesting - so many seem to like them...

[@Five2Go]

Oh yeah, tons of people use them but I think they're a terrible tool for the job. I got so frustrated with mine while parking the rig one day up in Oregon that I spiked it into the street outside my truck. The extra bit of fiddling they require just irritates me and backing an RV into a tight spot is frustrating enough sometimes without a little gadget misbehaving 😂

[@lisaevans5840]

I'm happy you are all ok. I've had friends die from a hit like that.

[@Five2Go]

Oh no! Luckily the guy was going pretty slow. That stretch of road is 45 though so it could've been much worse.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Whipping the water filter - whip it real good.

[@Five2Go]

Oh yeah, whip it! I'll give you some filter whipping lessons next time we get together! 😂😂😂

[@elisabethairey3447]

I had a good laugh at that

[@Five2Go]

I bet you did! Shawn will be doing it soon enough I bet you... 🤣🤣🤣

[@laurascarlett2057]

So glad you and the kids are ok.

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Laura!

[@delmarsbeensaved8569]

Related to your snap pads,I have your exact coach and would like to get the model number that fit your jacks.BTW the auto level once took my tires off the ground, which is why I use manual mode most of the time. Safe travels 🙏.

[@Five2Go]

Fleetwood rigs take these SnapPad Prime pads: amzn.to/2Qq6FUK

[@delmarsbeensaved8569]

@@Five2Go Thanks so much 👍🏾

[@andyteohockguan7243]

Awesome video

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Andy!

[@cynthiam9960]

I’m glad everyone is okay

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Cynthia!

[@cathylee9244]

Love you videos! Thankful you are all safe! That’s what matters!

[@Five2Go]

Yes! Thank you! 😍

[@reneeedmondson575]

Because the van was rear ended & you have kids in car seats- you need to push to have them replaced by insurance... car seats are to replaced after each accident. You never know if they got damaged or not in the accident.

[@Five2Go]

If the accident had been more severe we'd definitely push for that, but it was a 10-ish mph rear bump. It would be more of a hassle to replace the seats than it's worth honestly. If the insurance company says it's standard operating procedure and covers it without us asking, we'll of course take new (i.e.: not covered in crumbs) seats 😋

[@randallkrich6584]

We camped at a fairground in Ohio, there was a festival and if you didn't have a white hose they said it was a $25 fine, I would like to check into that it sure looks easy to roll up

[@Five2Go]

That's the first time we've heard of that. If someone told us that I'd pull up the product page and show them that it's a drinking-safe hose that's made for RVs. I'm sure that's what they're angling for. Heck, the other Camco hose that I carry with me for longer reaches is blue because it's their heavy duty hose 😜

[@LifeWithTheRVkeys]

Get a magnashade and you'll be able to look out the front windshield and stay cool. We have one for the side windows too. Great product and they also sell tire covers too. Beats putting up the reflectix! Can you adjust the slide topper tension to minimize pooling? Ours pools too but never so much that it sticks. Glad the accident was minor and everyone is ok.

[@Five2Go]

I've looked at the magnashade but those are pricey! I'm about done with big-ticket items for this rig for a little while 😜 The reflectix works really well and the price was right for now.

[@LifeWithTheRVkeys]

@@Five2GoThe cost of adding a graphic to the windshield shade really drives the price up. You can just get the windshield shade. Without graphics, we paid less than 700 for a shade for our 17' Thor Miramar 3 years ago. We paid around 1200 total, but we got the windshield, side windows, tire covers, wiper covers, setup pole and storage bag(highly reccomend!) We've never looked back! Maybe you can arrange a deal with the company to show their product?

[@Five2Go]

I'd love to get one with a design on it 😜 I think the base cost for just the windshield is 400 or so? Do you like the side window ones too, do they go on the same way?

[@LifeWithTheRVkeys]

@@Five2Go we love the sides. The sides have external magnets and the location of which may differ with your coach. But the shades go up the same way as the windshield once the magnets are installed. Even easier because they are smaller. The cost will vary based on the amount of material used and the labor involved. Our Miramar has a big windshield with a slight curve. We have mostly inside magnets with 2 outside magnets to help with the curve. I believe your bounder windshield is not as curved so it may not need the extra magnets. I can send you pictures of our shades inside the coach and out. Our cats really appreciate the view from inside the coach with these shades on!

[@Five2Go]

I'd love to see some photos! Can you email them to [e-mail] please? Thank you!

[@karenkrieg7212]

We spent a year in Florida in our RV. After returning to Texas, got on the roof to do some cleaning, and under the AC housing were 6 green tree frogs that hitched a ride home with us. Sadly, they did not survive. So check your AC units good before leaving Florida!

[@Five2Go]

Oh geez! Those little guys get everywhere!

[@roadnotesrv]

Try a beach ball between your slide and topper. Keeps the water from storing up. Cheap and easy! :)

[@Five2Go]

That's on my list to try out! That's a really long slide though so we'll have to see if it's enough...

[@lisawinters4681]

I am so happy everyone is ok!!! Make sure that you get all new seats for the kids cause even if theya re not in them and there is and accident they need to be replaced. But im sure you already know that. But i am so glad your all ok and made it to the new camp ground ok and that God you have a 2nd car...

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Lisa!

[@lindadixon767]

So sorry to hear that. I am so pleased that you guys are ❤okay. Please be careful on the road

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Linda!

[@lisabevans8107]

So odd yall are there and my son is there yall got hit and my son got hit smh. Just glad no one in either accident got hurt.

[@Five2Go]

I'm surprised we don't see accidents down here more often with how many stoplights there are on 45+mph roads.

[@lisabevans8107]

@@Five2Go remember be safe and hagd!

[@dankarau2307]

To prevent water from accumulating on the slide toppers...place a blow up beach ball under the tarp...just make sure you take it out before retracting the slide.

[@Five2Go]

That's on my list to try out!

[@johnbradley2764]

Climb on the roof and sweep off the water prior to pulling in the slides. Stay well, safe travels.

[@Five2Go]

That kinda defeats the purpose of having slide toppers though - you shouldn't have to go up there to sweep anything off. Our last rig didn't have toppers so I was up there sweeping pine needles and stuff off all the time. I'm going to try a few methods for propping up the center of the fabric.

[@reclusivegrub]

It is good to be hit from behind unless it is a hit & run on a new truck you have owned 9 days and your insurance totals it. Glad everyone was uninjured. That is why I recommend GAP insurance on any new vehicle purchase.

[@keitht7546]

Glad everyone is okay , because the Van can be replaced but not the precious cargo on board , enjoy stay safe✌🏽

[@Five2Go]

Very true! Thanks Keith!

[@katerick6158]

Glad your ok. Hopefully you can find solutions to your RV issues.

[@Five2Go]

We'll figure it out eventually, it certainly keeps things interesting! 😂

[@amyjones5584]

A beach ball not inflated fully will work under your slide topper to stop the water from pooling without damaging anything .

[@Five2Go]

That's on my list to try out! Thanks Amy!

[@julietidrick6334]

Pool noodles under slide toppers, also good for windy days

[@Five2Go]

I think pool noodles are going to work the best because of how long that slide is, but I'll probably try a few things just to see. Thanks Julie!

[@karenbankovich5675]

Oh no. Could you tow that minivan with your rig if you wanted to?

[@suepederson1012]

Oh my❤️sorry to hear. Glad all is well. 🥰

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Sue! Love you! Enjoy that new rig 👍👍

[@CCaudits]

Wouldn't a cap from a Pepsi bottle or something work better to screw on the bottom of that filter?

[@Five2Go]

To keep the water from draining out? The filters come with little caps to keep them clean during shipping, but I want the filter to dry out a little rather than have water sitting in them getting stinky.

[@CCaudits]

@@Five2Go It's probably just my opinion but I think I would like just a little bit of water left in the filter just to keep it moist so it won't dry out. But, any ways good idea for drying it out. :)

[@ryanmccarthy20]

Why do you keep the water filter out by the water “pole” as opposed to where it enters the rv?? That’s where I keep mine and I keep it connected all the time and just connect the end of hose each time to the “pole”??

[@Five2Go]

That's just a personal preference. On that RV the water connection is in the basement storage area so I wanted as few connections in there as possible. Fewer connections means fewer chances of developing a leak. If it leaks out at the pole I don't really care - inside and I wouldn't be thrilled.

[@ryanmccarthy20]

Five2Go great thanks! Love watching your stuff. We’re newbies by a few months. How long are y’all in Florida for ?

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Ryan! We're in Florida until next summer at least. Traveling right now is really funky so we're hanging out in this area for a while.

[@RollinRagu]

It is our understanding that it is not good for your slide motors to move them in increments like that. I realize your main is probably hydraulic, but electric motors will get out of sync operated like that. Just FYI :)

[@Five2Go]

Increments are fine as long as you're not going back and forth. We had to to get that topper to pop back out, but as long as you're going one direction the whole way, the speed doesn't matter.

[@RollinRagu]

@@Five2Go Thanks. That's a twist on what I've heard. Sounds logical. And, you're right, you had no option with the topper doing like it was.

[@maddiee96]

Glad everyone was okay in that rear-ender. One time a lady rear-ended me and didn't even attempt to slow down (had to be going like 40) knowing this one exit ramp we were near always backs up so bad. all kept saying was well if I didn't hit you I would've got hit. Somehow all the damage our car got was our license plate was all bent up.

[@Five2Go]

I'm always watching my rear view mirror like a hawk on ramps like that - you never know when someone else isn't paying attention (or on their phone...)!

[@maddiee96]

@@Five2Go we weren't even on the ramp. We were in the lane next to the exit lane just next to the ramp. People just don't pay attention when they are behind the wheel.

[@sherriweber7105]

I’m so glad everybody is ok for the accident. And the young adult who hit you was nice about it and asked if everybody was ok. That’s nice! Glad you all are safe from all the rain and storms down there. Can’t wait til next video. Hope it works out with getting car fixed. Sherri

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Sherri!

[@jillbeaudoin125]

2 things....1. I hope you didn't just drive away with that poor frog hanging on the rig. Please tell me you deposited it safely into some grass. 2. In a not-at-fault accident not only will the other insurance company fix your car, I believe the other driver's insurance will pay for your rental car, and you are entitled to have that rental car until your car is fixed. For a reasonable length of time, of course. They're not going to pick up the tab for a 6 month rental or anything. A couple of weeks would be fine though. Glad no one was hurt. Was your dog riding in the van?

[@Five2Go]

I was fueling up for another 5 minutes or so after filming and in that time he hopped off to the hose and then to the gas pump island, so he wasn't on the rig when we left. As for the van, the other insurance company is paying for a rental when the van goes into the shop. This is actually the first time we've ever had to deal with an accident so it's all new to us.

[@johnhavens8609]

Have done any suspension upgrades to your f 53 chassis, if so what ?

[@FamBAMiLee]

Uh, i think I'll stick with no slides. One less thing to worry about.

[@Five2Go]

It is, but it's also way less room which we definitely need with our crew 😉

[@donweis7573]

Guys. Auto level. Did you do a zero calibrate. Dealers never tell you this. If you have not, check into calibrating the auto level. It will not raise up so high the. Hope that might help. Sorry about the accident Don and Deb

[@Five2Go]

It seems pretty well calibrated and feels level after it does its thing, but for some reason the order that it raises the different sections seems to just go higher than necessary. This isn't the first time we've noticed it happen that way. It also never does the same thing twice - last time it ran higher than it needed to I dropped it back down and ran auto again and it did a totally different sequence and went level a bit lower. It's weird!

[@leahc9723]

This makes me glad I don't have slide outs. Glad you're ok

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Leah!

[@lyfandeth]

Have 3M Crystalline applied to that glass. It is a "tint" that can be nearly clear, but blocks 99% of UV and IR light. No heat transmission !

[@Five2Go]

Is that OK for use on windshields?

[@lyfandeth]

@@Five2Go In theory, windshields can't be tinted. But I have seen this product professionally applied, and it is impossible to see it. Lighter than ordinary tinted glass if you ask for the light stuff, and it should go 20-30 years without any degradation. 3M also makes a security tint, again available "clear" that makes side windows fist and brick resistant. Not all installers are authorized to apply it.

[@mikeshaughnessy1201]

Glad everyone is alright. Be safe and Enjoy your travels 😎

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Mike!

[@ttennagvd07]

How about buying a cheap rubber ball (1-2 ft. dia) at Dollar store. Place it in the middle, under awning! Also, Love your stowaway passenger. Cool little dude! (see my avatar, a bit pro for frogs! lol) Thanks for your videos! I have learned so much from you guys! Happy Trails!

[@Five2Go]

That frog was really cool looking! Most of the ones we see here are brown. The kids love all the frogs and lizards crawling around everywhere 😂🦎

[@jeffot6214]

something is not right with your topper. I have toppers and there are much more stiff and my water does not make them bow down like that have your springs in your rollers tighten up.

[@Five2Go]

It might be the springs, but more annoyingly the whole drum is sagging so no matter how tight I can get the springs it'll still sag. I'm going to prop it up from underneath and see how that goes.

[@jeaneenp1186]

With auto levelers. Now with snap pads on I believe you will need to reset your new level to zero.

[@Five2Go]

It was acting funky before the SnapPads, plus they're all the same thickness so as far as the computer knows it's just contacting the ground 1" sooner than normal. It is still level after running auto but it gets there in a weird order and goes higher than it needs to. I ran it manually until the computer showed the green "level" icon in the center, I just did it in a different order than the computer did.

[@WhereRV_Eh]

Inflatable bouncy ball like you use for exercise. Probably cheap at Wally World.

[@Five2Go]

That's on my list to try out!

[@adamfischer6768]

Im kind of a hose nut so on your reccomendation I am going to try the Zero G hose. I checked the reviews on Amazon and they are mixed with many 1 star ratings for the hose bursting after a month or so. Glad no one was hurt and hopefully the van is repaired by now.

[@Five2Go]

That's why you use a pressure regulator. We had our first zero-g hose for about a year with the travel trailer and the new owners (fulltimers) of that rig are still using it another year later. Heck, even if this one breaks somehow I'll still buy another zero-g to replace it because of how much I hate struggling with those white hoses! 😂

[@darisanshanger1616]

what got me was... the "Boss" didnt seen too enthused in the morning.. mine is not a morning girl either.. I need to tread lightly until after coffee

[@Five2Go]

Mornings can be a little rough around these parts, especially since we're only moving on the weekends now which means no sleeping in after a long week of work and school...

[@darisanshanger1616]

Five2Go oh yes... I can imagine. .. so many fun relationships built on the road though

[@rcarey3965]

Hey Brian - bummer on the van...I know you guys are domiciled in Sumter is that where the kids are going to school too? Was looking at Sumter although sales tax on vehicles is 8%. Clay County is 7% and there is what seems to be a good mail service offering legal addresses. 1% can be a lot when buying a Motorhome. Who do you guys have insurance through?

[@Five2Go]

Our domicile is through Escapees in Sumter but that's not where the kids are going. We're in Osceola County down near Disney World. We paid taxes to Texas back in April and that was 6.5%. I thought Florida was 6 or 6.25% statewide.

[@rcarey3965]

The minimum combined 2020 sales tax rate for Sumter County, Florida is 8%. This is the total of state and county sales tax rates. The Florida state sales tax rate is currently 6%. I saw one web page saying Sumter County additional sales tax rate was 3%, but on another site saw it and Clay County were both 1%, so total of 7%. Rethinking maybe going to American’s Mailbox in SD. Read where it’s 4% and in unincorporated area so no county additional tax.

[@thomaswright6250]

Great video good to know the wife and kids are okay and the gentleman that hit you has good insurance God bless my friends be safe

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Thomas!

[@kylepifer9509]

Welcome to Florida drivers.

[@Five2Go]

Having driven in all lower 48 states now - it's not just Florida. People just plain aren't paying attention when they're driving anymore!

[@GatorBiteDesigns]

What WiFi booster or internet system do you use

[@Five2Go]

I'm putting together a video on that in the next couple weeks - stay tuned!

[@lethomps1]

Put a volley ball under the topper.

[@Five2Go]

I'm going to try an inflatable beach ball, but I don't know if a single ball will be enough with how long that slide is...

[@NJ-Cathie]

Those hose.....amazing! That piece of reflective will be great in the winter to keep the rig warm.

[@Five2Go]

The zero-g hose is the BEST!

[@rvhome5599]

We use quick couplers for our water hookups, makes it so much easier

[@Five2Go]

I've thought about those but how hard do you have to push on them to get them to connect? The inlets in the wet bay there are in a kinda flimsy piece of backer so I don't want to push or pull too hard on it...

[@minmaui46]

This damage looks like the same damage I had to my car. No broken glass just the dent on my rear hatch door. I could open and close it. Well when I went to get an estimate for my insurance they totaled my car. Apparently the chasis was totally bent. I hope your damage isn't as bad as mine was. I had a Soul and was rear ended by a Toyota SUV.

[@Five2Go]

Hopefully we're not dealing with that. It was a pretty low-speed impact and almost all on the liftgate, but the van is pretty old and the value isn't very high so we'll just have to see. The van is perfectly fine otherwise and we're planning to drive it until it won't drive anymore!

[@weareenroute524]

So happy everyone is ok! Those dang frogs 🐸 get into everything and scare me every time. Hope too met up with you two again soon!

[@Five2Go]

You know where to find us 😜 The first round is on us after all that time y'all had to waste in the shop!

[@nanachick05]

Have his insurance provide a car...his fault. I got rear ended and I highly recommend an attorney, even if he is nice, chances are his insurance won’t be. So glad everyone is ok.

[@Five2Go]

If the company jerks us around we'll do what we need to so everything is fair. It's pretty cut and dry though - it's pretty hard to dispute a rear-end collision.

[@nanachick05]

Five2Go, You seems like a smart guy, you’ll take care of it I’m sure. I’m just glad Erin and the kids are all ok, that’s the important part.

[@jolenecreech7648]

Relax...make some herbal tea. Glad you are all okay. Hang in there! 🤗💕.

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Jolene! 😍

[@kurtwitt8498]

Beach balls

[@Five2Go]

That's the first thing on my list to try!

[@tomd1301]

glad to hear everyone is ok be safe

[@Five2Go]

Thanks Tom!

[@JamesDGarland]

Do you have a video on your internet setup. I must have missed it. If not, would love to learn more about how you all stay connected on the road.

[@Five2Go]

I'm going to make that soon, most likely in a few weeks 👍👍

[@johnleslie9493]

Love your hitchhiker! I’ve lived more than half my life in Florida and I absolutely HATE it here in summer. I can see you two are feeling the effects. Hang in there guys!

[@Five2Go]

Haha, yeah, it's definitely hot. I really think the worst part of the day is my first walk in the morning with Vector though. Everything is so freaking wet! Like our friend Dan says though, Florida has the best AC in the world 😂

[@lyfandeth]

FILE A POLICE REPORT and get an estimate. It may easily be two or three grand, and call their insurance company to make sure it is real In Florida...there's a lot of fraud. And don't forget your van now has depreciated value, the other driver should pay for that, the insurance won't.

[@Five2Go]

The claim is already in process, we just have to work with their insurance adjuster and get it all figured out this week. I've never heard of anyone paying for depreciation on a vehicle because of an accident though...

[@lyfandeth]

@@Five2Go From what I have been told, Florida allows this. Let's say the value of your van was $35k. Now there's a CARFAX that says it was in an accident so the value is only $33k. You've lost two grand and in many states you are allowed to recover that. "No accident history" really changes a cars value.