Simple Things ALL RVer's can do to PREVENT DISASTERS

Simple you can do to PREVENT DISASTERS, FOR ALL OWNERS OF ANY KIND OF RV.
Avoid major headaches from happening or at least minimize the possibility of them happening in the first place & prevent common RV mistakes. All of us are traveling in one way or another in our RV. We’re staying in camp grounds, perhaps we’re boon docking off grid or mooch docking at a friends house. That’s the common denominator all of us have. We’re all moving around from place to place and we all use our RV in different ways.
Those of you that follow our RV channel know my mechanical and military back ground. You know how much emphasis I put on keeping your RV in top shape and how preemptive I am in keeping it that way. I don’t wait for something to happen, then it gets my attention. These topics I'm going to cover today were chosen because they are what I observe all the time and are mostly ignored by to many RVer’s. So RVer's like you, your friends-and our fans-that have taken the time to watch this video, I’m sharing this information so these things won’t happen to you.🔧💗
These topics are in no particular order, and I’m not going to go in big detail about every one of them, but I am bringing them to your attention so you can apply this information to your RV and traveling lifestyle and make necessary adjustments as you see fit.
#1 - Over loading the RV
Did you know that 60% of all RV’s on the road are overloaded?
Every RV comes with a at least one cargo carrying capacity label. You need to weigh your RV to know it’s weight and it’s CCC.
#2 - The next thing you can do to prevent a disaster is to SLOW DOWN while driving your RV. In some states, towing anything you’re limited to 65mph. Sometimes even slower speeds
#3 - Visually checking everything on the RV often
#4 - Not securing your RV main awning properly
#5 - Not inspecting and servicing your RV roof often enough
#6 - Not listening to advice from experienced RVers in your area
#7 - Running the wrong air pressure in RV tires - did you know that 40%-almost half-of all roadside assistance calls are due to tires problems of one kind or another
If you have a motorhome, I did a complete video on how to properly calculate what air pressure you should be running in your tires: • How to CALCULATE tire ...
#8 - Lots of RV disasters can be avoided by installing a TPMS. A “Tire Pressure Monitoring System”. Watch my video where I cover this topic in detail:
• TOP THINGS RV OWNERS S...
#9 - Not taking the weather seriously to avoid RV disasters. You have to watch the weather “All the Time” while planning, driving or being parked
#10 - Turning off your water when you leave your RV
EXTRA LEARNING TIPS
• Those who use a truck to tow an RV - Understand Your Ratings for Safer Towing - www.escapees.com/my-truck-pul...
• RV Tires: Safety and Maintenance - www.escapees.com/rv-tires/
• To learn more about Escapes SmartWeigh - www.escapees.com/escapees-sma...
• All RVstreet videos in helpful categories - / rvstreet
• How to calculate proper air pressure in motorhome tires after you've weighed your coach -
• How to CALCULATE tire ...
Check out my PLAYLIST page here:
/ rvstreet
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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.

[@davidreyburn5548]

All 10 points are spot on Martin! This video deserves a million views. We do 4 corner weighings for the RV Safety foundation and seminars on RV weight & tire safety at rallies. Well done for providing such great advice for your viewers.

[@beverlyeisen7557]

+

[@nomadbiker4040]

I've had a water leak years ago when the pump was on, made a mess. There's a Bluetooth/WiFi controlled garden hose valve called Orbit B-Hyve that you can shut the water off outside with your phone instead of going out and it even monitors flow

[@kathleenrutherford733]

Thanks for the info, this is a fantastic idea

[@user-cn5dc5cg6e]

Another GREAT HELP VIDEO! Continuing my re-review of the best RV DIYers! Thanks!

[@loriw2661]

I use the TST TPMS on my truck and travel trailer. Between your channel, All About RV’s and Changing Lanes; this 60 year old female, solo RV’er knows more about preventative maintenance and how to fix things than many other RV’ers out there. I’ve got a lot of tools and spare parts, including Eterna Bond, that I carry with me. I’ve been able to help many other campers because I have so many extra things with me. I really appreciate channels like yours, and even though I’ve been an RV’er for 35+ years, I’ll never know everything. These are very important tips that ALL campers should know.

[@RVstreet]

WOW, thank you Lori for that. 💗 And yes there are some other very good RV channels out there that have some very good information and you have taken that information and implemented it. Carrying plenty of spare parts is essential even though some people make fun of that. As I was reading your reply, I was thinking OK....lots of tools, spare parts, 60 year old female, solo RV’er, knows about preventative maintenance and how to fix things...your my kinda girl. Everybody should be taking your lead. Thanks for taking the time to chime in Lori. 👍

[@loriw2661]

@@RVstreet Thank you. What a nice reply!!❤️❤️

[@marshaadams5501]

Very impressive Lori! I’m still “Martinizing” our George😊 Love Martin and Joanie!

[@francelavoie-deeprose9361]

Hello Lori, i would love to know more about your lifestyle and your adventures. i am getting a very small motorhome [25 ft] next week. i am in Canada and plan to travel alone most of the time. i am watching as many videos as i can [and following the one you mentioned] to learn how to manage on my own. I am 62.

[@djb3057]

You’re the first youtuber I actually make it a point to order from your store! Newbie RV’er here and your vids have been incredibly helpful! Just keep waiting for you to explain PMCS;-)

[@RVstreet]

I want to say thank you very much for your support and now I have to say with a broken heart that Martin has passed away from cancer💔 I will keep the channel up as long as KZbin allows me to because Martin loved helping people.

[@jackharding98]

Great video. #6 is my favorite. "An hour and a half ago I was trying to save you" LOL, You are gracious Martin, and thanks for the reminder to humble ourselves and be willing to listen to others. It just might save us from a bunch of hassle. It's like my favorite proverb that warns us to be proactive and not reactive. Proverb 22:3 "The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty."

[@dovergerald1579]

This video is seriously best advice for rv'rs ! Great stuff! I use simple moisture alarms around the coach (under sinks, water heater and wet bay. Just this morning I had a leak in the wet bay and the moisture alarm went off....without alarm I woulda never of known. These sensors can be had online for about $15 each. I really recommend these To all rv'rs!!!!

[@KevinCoop1]

I watched a guys RV video where he was complaining about his tire on his trailer that blew out. When he showed the tread on the tire, there was lots of tread in the center of the tire and worn down on the sides of the tread. I commented that it seemed to show he was running too low a pressure. After a couple snide comments back from him, saying that he always checks his pressure while on the road. I told him that correct pressures are when tires are cold, not after driving for miles. Stating that I was wrong, I sent him to a couple web sites and also to your very good tire video. Never heard another word from him. Maybe he is blowing less tires and making safer for him, his family, and anybody else near his trailer. Thanks Martin for another great video! Respectfully, Kevin

[@4kmacdonald]

I’ve never thought of turning the water off I live in my travel trailer thanks for the information much appreciated.

[@russelllindley9269]

In my case I have a hard time bending down to cut off my water so I put a cut off on the other end of my water hose. Now I just cut the water off at the connection to my camper. I put a Y on the end of my connecting hose which also has a cut off but I like having the cut off on the end of the hose to. It’s the little things we do making camping more enjoyable. The hints you have given could say thousands when it comes to damage to our campers. Thanks for all the videos you provide.

[@michellekoonce3191]

WOW and I thought I was the only one looking under my RV. 😳. I actually do the same things..I am constantly checking areas for water leaks and possible issues. Especially when it rains, I check every window seal for water and I check the bay areas (storage) compartments for any drips.

[@randyorchard5012]

I agree with all the info, especially turning off the water, so many do not. I need to look up the awning lock. Love that one

[@letsgo7068]

Another great video, thank you Martin. I will add that with my Thor Outlaw Motorhome when I am parked for a period of time I put a float charger on my truck battery. I am a fulltime RV'r and this way my battery is always charged. And I have gotten into the habit of turning off my water every time I leave, I thought I was being OCD, glad to know I am not alone. I like the idea of running the fresh water tho, keep up the great videos. And I was looking for a way to lock my awning, so another great tip!! Always well done and full of great information! Jan

[@kathleenrutherford733]

No such thing as OCD when your an RV'r in my opinion

[@trustme7731]

Even experienced RVers don't do these things. Along with turning off the water supplies, I also release most of the pressure in the lines. When using the pump, listen for that one or two second pump run time. It can mean a leak. I added "Make sure the holding tank valves are closed' to my check list. Folks need to remember to check the spare tire too and make sure they have the proper changing tools. During every stop, gas, store etc., I check the motorcycle we have on a hitch rack.

[@barney61ful]

My wife and I travel in a Class B which we bought new in 2018. Your tip #9 re. knowing the weather is a MAJOR one for us. Many RV sites are in areas that would not allow houses to be built due to flood zones, etc. I would add that we even check out exit roads to see if they may be closed due to flooding. I recommend getting great mapping and study them to know what is near your campsite. We have skipped staying in a river side site in Missouri due to our monitoring of water levels and a rain forecast for the day prior to our arrival. Thank you!

[@RVstreet]

"we even check out exit roads to see if they may be closed due to flooding" Now that's what I'm talking about. I luv you Barney. 😝

[@newenglandpats59]

I’m so sorry! God bless him and his family.

[@markmorgan3126]

Thanks Martin. Keep the great info flowing. RE: water. I learned a hard lesson 3 times this month. Went to bed and I often wake up in the middle of the night. 3 times in 30 days I awoke to find my water tank was overfilling and flooding my water bay. I think I have a bad fill valve. I am in the process of modifying the water system to vent the excess water overboard and replacing the valve. However, I no longer leave the water on when I am not at the coach or if I am sleeping. An ounce of prevention...

[@HopeLivesHere721]

You always give such good sound advice. As a newbie single woman traveling in my 2001 24 ft class c I really appreciate everything I have learned from watching your videos. Thank you so very much.

[@loriw2661]

Love it!! I’m a single, 6o year old woman who solo camps also. I love it and I hope I’m able to do it as long as I’m around!!

[@francelavoie-deeprose9361]

hello Laura, i am planning to travel across Canada. Just getting a small motorhome next week. love to connect and get to know more about your traveling style and share adventures.

[@rjw8316]

Tell you what Martin, if I am screwing up and lucky enough to be within your eyesight and you see me doing something that you are concerned about PLEASE come and tell me, I always accept expert advice.

[@rexp6296]

Great idea on all 10 points...especially like about locking in the awnings...and turning off water when leaving RV....also great idea to not leave an awning extended when leaving the RV for extended period of time...sudden gust of wind can do as much damage as unfurling while going down the highway.....

[@RVstreet]

Yep.

[@temirtaragay8932]

Very practical and meaningful advices

[@MrBlallen58]

Excellent video. I never thought about number 10 but I will now add that to my check list.

[@judystreich7333]

Totally agree with your ten tips Martin. Hope the rookies out there are listening.

[@jamesbrooks3822]

Another great video Martin. Your wealth of knowledge is incredible. I’ve learned so much!!

[@anthonyb2334]

Your video hits very important points. We have been RV' ing for nearly 40 years, and have made some of these mistakes. It wasnt until recently we even though about turning off the city water when leaving the campground. After our friends had a leak in their coach we started doing this. Lucky for them it wasn't a major issue. Thanks for the videos.

[@mtnpeek6748]

I just fill my tank and use that. Great tips. Thank you.

[@bobabooie6389]

Great points especially about the water

[@larrymiller8210]

Great ideas! I do 9 of them, you are spot on. People listen to this good advice! Thanks Martin

[@marshaadams5501]

Another great reminder! I would just add keeping the propane off when not needed and checking the electric at the park prior to hooking up and constantly using an EMS.

[@RVstreet]

Hi Marsha, Joanie says hi. Sorry we missed you and Lloyd this fall. 💗 Have you played in any poker tournaments lately? Yep those are good practices we follow too, except we only turn off propane when underway.

[@marshaadams5501]

@@RVstreet please give her a hug from me 😊 Yes, played a big one last night and busted 😢 Took 20th last week in a big one and made the Final table Friday night in a small one and we did an ICM chop. I’m playing another big one on Thursday.

[@RVstreet]

Oh kewl, now you made me look up ICM chop and what the hell that means.Now you're making me learn something new. 😜 OK so, I read quite a bit about it and still don't quite understand. But that's OK....I don't play poker but love watching. Joanie gives you a 🤗 💗

[@kduncan9533]

Great video! Excellent job! You asked for comments on things that might be a problem in addition to what you addressed. A water pressure regulator helps minimize problems and don’t forget the surge protector! We learned about the surge protector the hard and expensive way! Not only is it needed there is a right and wrong way to hook the surge protector up to your rv. Thanks for all your advice and tips. Also enjoy you DIY videos.

[@TomSpurlock]

Thanks Martin, great list of knowledge and solutions. We just left Maine a week ago. Hope you've enjoyed the fall color.

[@matthewmortiere4620]

Great video Martin, I too was unaware of the awning locks. I will definitely get that mod taken care of.

[@joeblow3939]

❤❤ I had a long list of things for part two, then deleted all of it. This guy doesn't need my input. Another great video. 👍👍

[@brucebjornson9135]

It is great to see you

[@michellekoonce3191]

Hay there!! Finally got a replacement LCI motor for my Solera awning..The 6 screws there, two that were deep. The RV tech left them in from last time and they were stripped out and I could not get the cover off. SO, I had to break the cover a little. It’s repairable with glue, but this week I am going to replace motor and tape the cover on..Thanks for ALL you and JONI DO!! Love your channel and introductions with helpful exceptional information that is crucial to RV life on the road!! Much love and hugs prayers too. Michelle Tallahassee FLORIDA Happy Trails

[@Chimp_6]

Rock solid tips Martin! One more item I would add to the list is an EMS (electronic monitoring system), either a built in or like us one that attaches to the park's electric pedestal. They do run a few hundred $ but damage due a park electric problem could cost thousands.

[@abyk.r.7855]

Another great video! As someone who is parked up semi permanent since I fulltime I always check weather before I go to work to see if I need to bring in awnings. I also have the rule of 2x walk arounds before moving. I do a complete 360 checking latches, looking at tires and making sure my slides are completely in and not sitting at any type of angle. Then I'll walk around one more time glancing at everything quickly before I drive away. Since we have cats the dinette slide has turned into the cat area for their litterbox, a cat tree, and food bowls. So we took the loveseat out of one of our slides in the living room area and are building a table in there. We made sure all the materials weighed slightly less than the loveseat because as you said, weight can be an issue. You're videos have helped me a ton as I've adjusted to full time RV living.

[@annej5699]

You brought up an important point that I have not yet found out enough about in my homework prior to buying my first trailer: how much weight a slide can handle, especially when not deployed and in travel mode. One of my criteria for my trailer once I get it is that if necessary the trailer is usable and everything accessible if I am someplace where I cannot deploy the slide. However, I have recently found out that some slide mechanisms can suffer if you actually sit in them or use them when they are retracted in travel mode. I need to learn more about this and how to address the situation, but you have made a very good point about how to make sure you're not overloading a slide in travel mode when replacing the furniture it came with.

[@trustme7731]

Check the roof too.

[@tomgaluski4605]

Martin, Another great video with a lot of great information. What I do to help prevent major problems is to subscribe to several KZbiners like you that have a wealth of knowledge like you have. I feel that there is now way that any of us travelers can know everything. (I WILL PUBLICLY AKNOWLWDGE THAT YOUR VIDEOS HAVE GIVEN ME MOST OF THE INFORMATION I SEEK) but the information given in any video or any blog needs to be acted on by the ones searching the knowledge. So thanks again for feeding us great information to help make our adventures pleasurable .

[@RVstreet]

Tom, thank you underscoring the keywords "needs to be acted on". 👍

[@keithhenderson4877]

Thank you, your the first that I have subscribed to. I am from Maine and live in New Hampshire.

[@RVstreet]

thx Keith for subbing. We love that area up in the northeast. It's so beautiful up there.

[@rickcampbell4920]

You two are awesome!

[@koalabear6722]

Thank You so much!

[@bryansanges6679]

I never run on city water. When the tank gets low I fill it up. Some short stays I never had to get out the water hose and had all the water I wanted.

[@rickl6697]

Good advice. Great video.

[@solitaryrv5335]

Spot on. I SO enjoy your videos.

[@davidl9372]

Martin, all good points that rv’ers should keep in mind and new rv’ers need to know. Getting your RV weighted for the first time is often put off. I know from experience. Always great information.

[@guye7763]

Yep, good advice as usual. Thanks!

[@annettehudson3980]

GREAT INFO.

[@debicaron6046]

Everyone needs to follow your advise..I just replaced a faulty Axel on my trailer$$$..the metal guy told me it didn't look like I overfilled my RV..I had traveled across the country without issue..I had blown 3 tires..one after the other..The Axel must have been the issue because I haven't had an issue..Thank God. Your advise is golden..thank you. I loved to turn the water off..never thought of that.

[@InChristalone737]

Great advice

[@carlgshock]

Very good video Martin.

[@rockybridges4820]

great great tips sir!! I had bought a TPMS and did it pay off big TIME!!!! I got an alarm coming down a steep grade and pulled over to check it out. I always take psi readings before, during and after and I had lost some air in one of my dually tires. Long story short it was a leak in the stainless-steel tubing to the inside tire and every 100 miles or so I would have to add air (air compressor was on board) so no big deal. Had it not been for TPMS I would have never known!! stay safe

[@danphillips4900]

God bless you Martin❤

[@nathanpetersen4063]

Great video. Thanks for all the good info.

[@DavidSmith3750]

O holy crap seriously. Man i wish i watched THIS video 4 months ago. YOU have taught me sooo much. I could of SAVED. $$$$ Ive seen 100 videos at least my Airstream Dealer NEVER. Told me these thing and are NOT. In the Owner Manuals ANYWHERE I’m, going to my videos past I’ve watched and share this info. this is NEEDED info Turn off pump. Turn off city water if leaving campsite. My question here is some clown adjust my automatic Jack does that cause the pressure change on the pvc pipes. Had to Jack bal ance i guess they needed a couple of stabilizers oh yeah need locks for everything folks

[@michellekoonce3191]

Truer words have never been spoken!! Happy Trails

[@donwalker3683]

Thanks for these excellent tips!

[@King-hl9vp]

Very good information. Thank you

[@williamastorino9551]

Great advice as usual. Thanks Martin

[@annej5699]

I was very glad to see you mentioned the speed rating of tires. Many people don't give any thought to the weight or speed rating of their tires, or the weight rating of their axles. But there's another important item to check the weight ratings on: your actual hitch. I'm talking the piece that is permanently affixed to your vehicle. I am currently doing homework before buying my first travel trailer. My F-150 claims to be rated to pull up to 11,900 lb when otherwise empty. However, when I crawled underneath the tail of my truck and looked at the actual hitch I noticed two ratings that were significantly lower. Without using weight distribution my hitch is rated to pull 5000 lb and a max of 500 lb tongue weight. With weight distribution my hitch is rated to pull 11,000 lb with a max of 1100 lb tongue weight. It's important to check the ratings on all the different components. Payload of the tow vehicle as well as gross combined weight rating. Axle ratings. Tire ratings. Each piece of the hitch system. And this is not an all-inclusive list. If it has to handle any weight or stress, no matter what it is, find out it's ratings. Thank you for a very helpful video!

[@rachaelb9164]

Always trust the advice of someone that has been at the campground a while and watched people struggle with a site. If I’m at a place for just one night It doesn’t have to be perfect but I’ve been to so many sites that are way off level or have super thick gravel that swallows the leveling jacks.

[@bobhauber6421]

Great video!

[@EllenVonHaden]

Thank you!

[@bobmartens1089]

In California if towing is 55, I have an f150 with towing package but still only tow a 24' TT with a high end wdh with SC. TT only weighs about 5500 loaded. I'm super comfortable at 60mph. And do my best to not drive if windy. I'm retired so can make my own schedule. Safety first!!!

[@RVstreet]

This a smart thing to do. Good job 👏

[@TheBuddyandlilly]

Martin I feel great, I follow everything on your list. Thanks

[@garywalton5135]

This is great keep up the great work!!!

[@user-qi6hn7mv6l]

Watch the weather if it’s going to possibly get down to freezing point disconnect your town water supply hose to avoid having a burst hose in the middle of the night ::::Water does expand when it freezes so disconnect the line and give the expansion somewhere to go and not burst your hoses at 3AM

[@RVstreet]

Excellent advice

[@agnaldos80]

Excellent tape well spoken and water dear is very true it happened to me turn the water off I enjoyed the steak

[@waltcooke9522]

Battery monitoring: I installed an analog +\- amp meter into my battery system and mounted the gauge at eyeball level in the kitchen. A good reminder to only have those12v gadgets and lights on when truly needed. The meter also allows for monitoring the recharging progress and lets me know when to turn off the generator prior to the point of those take-forever, tedious and unnecessary last amps to find home in the batteries. Love your videos.

[@kevinriley771]

I just stubbled onto you channel really enjoy the great information.. Thanks Martin from a fellow Texas :)

[@johnr5545]

Nice job god bless

[@brucefay5126]

We also run off our water tank, but we only turn the pump on when we need to use it.

[@VETUSAF1]

Hi brother vet another good one. I have been doing most of these but you have enlightened me to how important these things are. I have to get me a tire pressure monitor. Being a large old man 👴 I have to get my son or grandson to get on top and check things out they must be doing it right no leakage so far. Keep them coming and as always wishing safe travels.

[@guttermastersplus5613]

Also don't forget to check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors at least once to year

[@matsulli2086]

A real fire extinguisher x3 Water off! TPMS Orange Cones Triangle Road Reflectors Glass Break Tool FA kit Good weather driving Tire chains Weight check

[@lisabevans8107]

What have I done? Watched your videos first . Bought our cargo trailer about a week ago. Now I am working on all your suggestions. Tyvm.

[@brianpeters2695]

When I get up in the morning, turning the water on is the second thing I do.

[@robertroth287]

I tend to drive with my generator running to keep the motorhome cooler but make sure it is off before I pull in for a fuel stop. Appreciate the information you presented.

[@kathleenrutherford733]

Why not just turn on the fans? I've never heard of running a generator while in travel?

[@bensp1193]

Hi to both of you. I do most of your points you cover but your number 4 I wasn’t aware of it securing awning. Will be on to do list added to TPMS that on it too from your video released few months ago. I did a seasonal site so Canada camping ending for most tomorrow but where I am they added 2 more weeks and then winterize the RV but next season maybe on road so those 2 preventable issues are to be look at. Cheers

[@kathy1846]

I love your vidios. When you got to the water city/ pump. I have had the campgrounds shut off the water and back on and bam. Katts had a problem. Have replaced the city check valves. A couple times Because when they do that at least in my RV the water starts filling up my blatter. So. Yes I have learned to just have an empty tank if I'm going to plugged in to city Water. Thanks brother

[@nomadbiker4040]

Good info As a truck driver we had to learn all of this in detail to get a CDL and master air brakes but in many states you can drive a 60K pound tandem axle diesel pusher with a regular license. RV operators need to be careful and those DOT inspections and scales stops might start happening to RVs

[@traceycummings6946]

Thanks for these points. Can you tell me where you got the awning lock?

[@lukewarren7857]

Check your differential fluids and grease those multi-line drive yokes, especially if you tow a vehicle.

[@bobchallquist4577]

Thank you, awesome points. What is your rule of thumb, for you, about driving in windy conditions, like wind speed max. and other precautions. Thanks again.

[@RVstreet]

Funny you should ask because we just dealt with that a few days ago So my rule of thumb is: • As far as wind goes, coming to the location where we are now it was predicted to be 15-20 gusting to 25 on move day. I decided to go ahead that day and we left very early because morning is better for predicted high winds and usually builds as the day wears on. I was going thru Oklahoma where it was flat so wind was more pronounced. It wasn't to bad though but I drove slower. The chassis mod's I have made makes all the difference in the world with handling and my confidence. If it was going to be 30-35 with gusts to 40, I would not have moved that day. • Also it really depends on the terrain we're in at the time and how far we have planned to drive that day. • If I see really rough weather weather coming on move day I don't drive. PERIOD. I change plans accordingly. • It's all about risk. Different people have different risk levels they're willing to take. I know my coach really well and what's safe and what may be risky. If I feel that current conditions are too risky, I error on the side of caution and stay put.

[@jeffjones578]

Another Great Video Martin ! Were on the Same Page on everything Except turning the water off when gone , ill give it some more thought ! Possible big threat is Steering Stabilizer or ( safe-t-plus ) Never had a Blow - out problem up front(or back) in 35K miles(Thank God) but still would help Much in Worst case Situation ! Take it easy !

[@RVstreet]

Ya I'd give it A LOT more thought. Read some of the other comments of others. It's just a simple thing to do to prevent a water disaster. Or just live off your fresh water tank. Why do you find the Safe-T-PLUS a threat? I haven't had a blow out either in 40K miles but boy I sure want it there if I ever do. Besides that, it has make a big difference in simmering down the front end from wandering. thx Jeff 🔧👍

[@jeffjones578]

@@RVstreet Sorry Martin I Meant Not having some type of Steering Stabilizer was Dangerous incase of a Blowout ! have a Good Day !

[@RVstreet]

@@jeffjones578 Ah gotcha. That makes sense. It's all good. 👍

[@rachaelb9164]

Many areas on the west coast have a 55mph speed limit for vehicles that are towing.

[@rachaelb9164]

People that don’t live in desert areas don’t realize that you should always watch what the clouds are doing in the mountains surrounding you. That’s where flood waters come from. Arizona and all the basin areas are a good example of this. Turning off the water pump is a good idea. We have a leak somewhere but didn’t know about it until we walked back from the beach and saw a small waterfall coming out of the wheel well lol.

[@timcleaveland4606]

Before we park and setup , even for one night I make sure to top off the gas and propane tanks. We were the lucky one's (LOL)caught in the Texas freeze this year for a week. We had topped off the day before. It was very sad to see Rvers risk there lives to go get propane for heat.

[@RVstreet]

Yep. It's all about thinking and planning ahead and being prepared 🙏

[@marydrummond6152]

We always turn our propane off when not cooking or using the furnace.

[@helenettlin7152]

We discovered that, when we were going down the road, we were ending up with water on the floor. We found that when we used the water pump and then shut it off (think grandkids going potty at stops), we also had to open the faucet to release the pressure. Once the water stopped flowing, we closed the tap…no more problem.

[@RVstreet]

"when we were going down the road, we were ending up with water on the floor" Oh boy 😂 Glad you figured out the solution 🎉

[@trustme7731]

Sounds like you have a leak while the pump has it pressurized. Turning off the pump and releasing the pressure doesn't correct the problem.

[@johnudisky1248]

Martin, What do you think about installing tyron wheel safety belts on the front wheels of motor home?

[@playinatlife5778]

I'm guilty of not doing this, but check your oil before each trip.

[@cortmassey2138]

Great tips Martin even for a seasoned Rver with class C experience. Thank you. Personally believe you always have to be learning and double checking oneself when handling a rig. Retired Navy, upgraded this year to Vista 29V, so new learning opportunities. A couple questions- fenced, camera storage lot had catalyst converters stolen four months ago on several rigs by luck my rig was not parked. Your opinion on installing the Cat Clamp (brand name) as a preventive step so hopefully thieves will by-pass? One negative adds 40 lbs and expensive to purchase and labor to install $1K. Second questions requiring Safe-T-Plus and SuperSteer Rear Trac Bar? New F53 (2021) has heavier front sway bar and only 30’ in length. Ford commercial truck shop does not recommend modifying factory chassis with these after market items, especially while under warranty, and didn’t believe it made that much of a difference. Handling does seem more stable then my previous 32’ class C rig. Any additional inputs I should consider? Again, some of the best RV help videos out there- thumbs up!

[@RVstreet]

Ya the CATs being sawed and stolen in storage lots is a big and growing problem. I have never liked outside storage for that reason and many others. I have always advocated inside locked storage even though it cost more. That's what I did for 18 months getting our rig ready for full timing. I've studied this CAT problem quite a bit actually and even tried to come up with my own way of making it so difficult that any thief would just move on to an easier target. But the CAT Clamp IMO is about the only alternative that I feel is a good deterrent. Not full proof but a good deterrent. Nothing is 100%. It does add some weight but is a easy DYI install. Concerning the chassis upgrades. Ford is wrong about these not making much of a difference. They are NOT going to admit that their chassis don't handle well in the following conditions. Especially on rigs like yours where the wheel base is so short and if I'm not mistaking you also have 19.5" tires. Even my rig that has a 228" wheel base and 22.5" tires they are necessary. Those two things-short wheel base and smaller tires-create a lot of sway and handling issues in windy conditions, when semi's come by you etc. It's even worse if you're towing a car behind you. Your right about the larger sway bar on the new F53 chassis's. It's 2" in diameter. Very stout. But the Safe-T-Plus keeps the front end from wandering and is also a safety device to help you control the rig in the event of a blow out. The rear trac bar *WILL* help tremendously in rear sway/tail wag. As far as warranty issues it could be a crap shoot and also depends on the Ford service shop you take it to. Ford and other manufacturers are always looking for ways to get out of warranty claims even though those two mod's just stabilize the chassis and are very effective. That being said, I've read several people who have done these things-and more-and it did not void their warranty. The bottom line this is: 1) If they did void your warranty it would only apply to the certain components of the chassis. It would not void say the engine, transmission, air conditioning, etc. These mod's do not affect those and other items and so on... 2) IMO you have a choice. Deal with the handling the way it is and maybe be safer with warranty-which I wouldn't do and especially on a short wheel base rig-or make the mod's and make it easier to drive NOTE: One last word on the front and rear sway bars (SB). There are literally 1000's of reports on older F53 chassis that the front & rear SB bracket bolts come lose and many times just fall out. This problem is still present and happening to new F53 chassis's too. There are two bolts per bracket and each SB has two brackets. So 4 bolts total for each SB. Ford has known about this problem for years but refuses to acknowledge it and has done nothing to remedy it. It's up to the owner to be proactive and take care of this problem. The bolts need to be removed-one at a time-put about 4 drops of BLUE Loctite (not RED) on the threads, put them back in and torque them to 66' lbs. In case you haven't seen it yet, I've done a complete video on these chassis upgrades here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpTIimaemNh9ic0 Also here's a link to my PLAYLIST page in different categories: kzbin.infoplaylists And of course a link to my Amazon Store if you'd like: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet

[@cortmassey2138]

@@RVstreet Wow, thank you so much for the detailed explanations and other tips I was not aware of regarding the sway bars. I definitely want to be safely proact

[@cortmassey2138]

@@RVstreet sorry, response cut off- proactive. As part of a thank you I plan to order some of your exterior cleaning supplies. I have a power washer 2500 psi, assume that is too powerful to use with soap cannon, so considering the electric one. Will schedule the chassis work with an outfit that does large chassis work. Great videos and support!

[@markhindman9005]

Great info Martin. Question about you awning lock. Why not just drill a new hole? I would trust the spring loaded pin more so than the cord. Thoughts?

[@RVstreet]

I thought about that and probably could of done that BUT...since my older, original fabric stretched and I had to elongate the original hole TWICE, I thought, ya know this new fabric that I have on now will probably stretch some more too and I'll have to elongate that one. I just didn't want to do that or take that chance, thereby possibly weakening the cap on the awning roller. So I came up with this idea and it works fine without taking that risk.

[@543whitey]

That's interesting, about living on the tanks vs city water. Do you drink out of the tanks? My wife is concerned that those tanks are rated for drinking water use; eg. BPA.

[@RVstreet]

Yes, we drink out of the tanks. They are rated for drinking and cooking.

[@jay5729]

You should be an RV service tech.

[@Schetmesa]

Martin, great vids. But, I can’t seem to figure out where the link is to your Amazon site Thanks

[@RVstreet]

My Store is here: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet Whenever you view any of my YT videos the link is DOWN THERE in the description text. The description text not only has additional information on every video, but also has helpful links too. If you have problems finding the description text, please watch this video I did that will explain not only to get there, but will show you how to maximize your YT experience. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKHVcqZ-hJxgfJo thx Kevin 👍

[@beelust4312]

Martin, I have a fiberglass roof and need your advice on what products I need to seal the roof. Just had it cleaned, but not sealed. 😊

[@RVstreet]

You can see how I sealed and treated my roof here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmGToIGql9unqM0 I have everything in my Amazon Store in the "Everything on the Roof" category www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet

[@michaelcanto6175]

As Full TimeRVers We need to constantly be on our game, Slacking OFF is expensive. Thank you for the tips and reminders. Are you guys still inTX for the winter?

[@RVstreet]

Will be in a few weeks.

[@charleswalker7191]

Pages 12-15 of the Michelin RV tire manual give explicit instructions for getting a four corner weight at any of the hundreds of CAT scales across the country, not just the three Escapees locations. And no appointment necessary. I fully agree that you should not travel on the roadway in an overweight condition. But unless you are at fault in a vehicular manslaughter incident law enforcement has absolutely no means of weighing your coach. Nor are they going to tow your rig to the nearest weigh facility. If you are at fault in a manslaughter situation you have bigger fish to fry than whether or not your rig is overweight. Otherwise, decent info.

[@RVstreet]

You mean like this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jH7RiWWFnKiopc0 kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5Cxpnild66rm5o thx for your input Charles

[@johnudisky1248]

Can you explain how to sanitize a fresh water system in a diesel pusher electric motor home that has an aqua hot unit? I was told that once bleach is mixed in (which I don’t know how to do) that it cannot exceed 4 hours otherwise it can damage the aqua hot unit. I am thinking of doing this while driving coach and then emptying the fresh water into our black and grey tanks. Then attaching water to system and run all faucets to remove the bleach from the lines. Am I on the right path to do this? I have to figure out how to get the bleach into the system.

[@chpfnp1910]

Don't forget to lock ur door when u leave it.