Mistakes Made Camping in an Aliner

Over the last year and a half I have made several mistakes while towing or folding down my Aliner camper. I share here a few things I have learned along with a few things that others have told me to help not make mistakes while Camping in an Aliner. Hope this helps out others.

[@jeffdill2]

"If you're having to force it, something's probably not right." Great advice for just about any situation.

[@crk140]

Kinda reminds me of my last marriage

[@NorthernKitty]

I have a Rockwood A122-S rather than an A-liner, but there are many similarities. For the pull out step, I've found that if you put a piece of foam pipe cover over the crossbar it will prevent the step from vibrating open during travel. It needs to be a large enough diameter pipe cover, but doesn't have to completely immobilize the step - it only needs to be large enough to prevent it from bouncing open. There are two things I would add to "common mistakes": The first is thinking the top is connected together properly but one corner is a little bit off and not settled in. You usually will realize this when you go to latch the walls in place and you have to force it because it's not lining up. Like you said, "if you're having to force it, something's probably not right." I've had this happen twice. The second is forgetting to close the roof vent before traveling. I forgot this my last trip and didn't realize it until I entered the freeway and began crossing a bridge about 1-2 miles long with no place to pull over. The way these are designed with the open side facing forward, they will catch the air like a sail. I thought for sure the wind was going to tear it right off my travel trailer. I threw my hazard lights on and dropped to 40mph hoping it could at least weather winds that strong. People on the bridge were NOT pleased. I made it OK to the other side and pulled off the road. The vent was OK, but it was a pretty worrisome watching it flop around in the wind. I don't know why this wasn't on my "checklist" before that trip, but it's on my "checklist" from now on.

[@IntheBlood67]

Thanks!

[@kentshoemaker7764]

Great tips. One mistake we made; We were heading out on a weekend trip. I was careful when preparing the A liner for travel, but apparently we did not tighten and lock the fan hatch. It was closed and it was locked, or so we thought. I'm always concerned about the fan hatch because it's all plastic and I don't want to over tighten or force the lock, but if you don get it locked, problems are just around the corner. At our first stop I quickly noticed the hatch had blown back and broke several plastic pieces. Luckily, a trailer/camping store was only 8 miles away and repairs/replacements were available Lock the hatch!.

[@RandomStuffWithBill]

I can't wait to get an aliner, thanks for this video

[@monicalifornia_]

This is so practical. I think this is the best video I’ve seen on this trailer. Thank you so much

[@Tom-In-Ga]

Just when I thought I had forgotten what an idiot I was, I watch this video and get reminded of a couple of those things you said. Now I never had an Aliner but a couple of your mistakes applied to any trailer so I guess you can figure out the ones I screwed up. 🤣

[@anniejuan1817]

OMG, I love all the stickers you and your family have placed on your Aliner! So cute!

[@racquellevias9297]

This was such a helpful video. I'm looking to buy n A- liner and this helps!😊

[@karenspringfield8365]

Thanks for the insight into potential problems

[@blueyonder1233]

Experience is worth gold. Good on you for sharing.

[@LeoB-vb2pq]

I;ve seen most of your vids in prep to buying my A Frame and actually got a used Rockwood instead. Wish I would have seen this one. I was coming home from 2 months in the Rockies last Sept and stayed at a Motel in a small town in Wyoming and did not unplug the rig overnight. In the morning my batterey was completely dead ! AAA came from 2 hours away and could not jump it so we had to buy a new one. Batterey in the Durango is under the passenger seat and there was a lot of cussing and bloody knuckles from the AAA guy. When we started the truck up, ABS and ESP lights were on and he could not fix the problem. Got on the road and Cruise Control did not work. $250 for batterey and another #250 for Dealer Service to reset the computer ! Lesson learned !☹

[@IntheBlood67]

Thanks fer the Durango intell!

[@kathypierce7641]

Excellent. I ve made several of these errors myself.

[@russmontante5169]

Always take off the dolly wheel before traveling. One time we forgot and hit a dip in the road that caused the hitch to disconnect and the camper bumped the back of the van while braking, luckily it caused minimal damage

[@DThole]

Nice video. We had one of our stabilizers come down as we went around Chicago. A good guy let us know we had a problem and we were able to get off the highway and fix it. We are careful to always give it one more nudge toward tight now.

[@scoop2591]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this vid. Very helpful !!! :)

[@dogsbyfire]

Great suggestions thoroughly presented. Thank you!

[@BrandonViani]

This was fantastic thanx mang 👌

[@dailydestiney7410]

It’s so cute inside I love it !

[@cyndicarroll9125]

Thank you so much for all of this information. Great video!

[@junogwat1979]

Great info man. Awsome video.

[@toddjohnston4788]

Great tips, thanks 😊

[@kimberlym.3643]

Thank you for posting.

[@rickray5884]

Thanks for the Heads up. Great Video

[@johndeitsch4497]

Thanks for sharing. We just brought our aframe home on Saturday, so haven't had a chance to mess anything up yet, but hopefully this will stop us from making a few of yours. *Don't force it!

[@theresmore2learn516]

Thank u. Purchasing one now!!

[@juliepoko]

New to Aliner! Thanks for tips

[@deborahb.277]

Great tips, I hope to get one soon.

[@barbarabuford5795]

Incredibly useful info, Thanks! 👏

[@barbarabuford5795]

YES I want one for my tiny car! ♥️

[@ChasinSimplicity]

Great tips!

[@kharizmahs504]

We have a Rockwood, the problem we have is remembering to close the bottom part of the door during setup which can bend the frame of the door.Leaving the max fan cover up when closing the unit can also be a problem.

[@jodyseaman1885]

Thank you, hitting the road this weekend for the 2nd time. Good advice as a newbie I appreciate it.

[@benmughal]

Thanks for the video!

[@rubberdiscoduck]

Good video thanks for posting it

[@LoveMtDulcimerMusic]

I've made the mistakes you mention. Most of my troubles come from forgetting to do something, like put the step in or not tightening the vents enough. Yes, I have a check list but I am easily distracted. I always enjoy your Aliner camping and modification videos. Thanks for sharing.

[@billsnyder6826]

Hello, I am thinking about buying a used Aliner. Would it be possible to get a copy of your check list. Thank You, Bill

[@LoveMtDulcimerMusic]

@@billsnyder6826 Right now, my list is handwritten and I am at an Aliner Rally. Not sure how to get a photo of it to you or when I get home, I could type it up in a computer file for you.

[@billsnyder6826]

@@LoveMtDulcimerMusic what ever is easiest for you I would appreciate it. Thank You , Bill

[@clifftaylor4712]

Great video. I appreciate the honesty. We all seem to be prone to making mistakes either in setting up or tearing down when we go out of our "sequence". Getting in a hurry or talking to someone can cause it. We also have a camper that we need to pull the cover off of the AC before using it. The rule that I made for myself is to pull the cover before I plug into electric whether we intend to use the AC or not.

[@carolsteele5811]

Thank you that was very informative 👍

[@johnlounsbury6191]

thanks great advice

[@charleskuhn8304]

Thanks for making this video. Plenty of really good tips!

[@lapdawg60]

I agree! These tips will save others a lot of frustration (and money) in the future!

[@patriciatwalsh4479]

Thanks for the tips😊

[@montanadivacreations9267]

just brought our NEW to us AL home. So this is the first video of many. Ours is the older version of yours so will watch your mods with interest.

[@oldmillrd1506]

watch slim potato head from alberta. he is the most watched a-frame owner on youtube with many tips and ideas. great info on where to camp and beautiful filming.

[@DavidMedina4All]

Thank you for sharing.

[@marilyncote-miller8010]

I want one badly!

[@lindasue8719]

Thanks for the tips! I’ve been thinking about buying this trailer!

[@jjohnson6079]

I've been thinking about buying one also. Some of this might seem obvious, but little things are good to know or be reminded of.

[@krazed0451]

Battery isolation circuit/switch solves your issue with leaving it plugged in ;-)

[@rubyokosi8377]

Thanks my MAN😁

[@blueboy387]

Do to the hieght of the titanium, i use the step to lower the roof. Somehow i forget that thing. Not something i'll pull over on the side of the road to stow. Because it clears the ground fine, and safety before pride, i'll wait till getting gas or rest area pops up (ooo totally unintended pun). But have to remember it sticks out there. And i know you old timers are laughing at the newb . Lol Thanks i enjoy your videos

[@spiderbrandt4066]

Thank you good stuff

[@papajeff5486]

Thanks, Texas

[@larry3476]

Thanks

[@carlaifera5254]

......good info.......thanx........🙋‍♀️✝☕

[@juniemoon372]

Make sure your step has a cover. Our dog jumped out before we got a cover and caught his toenail in the grate.

[@cchayko502]

What Kind of step cover do you use?

[@johndeitsch4497]

I saw a green artificial turf one on Amazon I think I'll order. Good to know about the puppers nails. Thanks

[@7drunkenmermaids431]

Oh thanks! I hadn't even thought about that.

[@jimwortham8634]

Thanks for posting most the time pilot air

[@Christine-tc1vg]

Thanks for the video, great advice. How do you clean your bubble windows?? Mine are dirty and simple washing them does not clear them up. Thank you for your help!

[@Turtle3863]

Never had to clean mine

[@MaryAmesMitchell]

Thanks.

[@YahshuaLovesMe]

cute/simple.

[@johnryle6917]

Good video

[@harrymills2770]

Not afraid to admit he left the cover on his AC. Surely you don't go down the road with that side-mounted unit sticking out? I think they make a roof-mounted AC.

[@Turtle3863]

No problem with side mounted AC, no way to have a roof model as it would be too heavy to lift.

[@kd-b7340]

Thanks for the tips! Does the a/c always stick out like that when you're driving?

[@Turtle3863]

Yes

[@trailmanorgeek3251]

nice video

[@777cretbo]

Hi ... My wife and I are shorter couple, we found a Ranger 15 Aliner 2013 in excellent condition garage stored its whole life (it shows). We have a 2019 Tacoma with tow package so that is not the problem. We will be weekenders and occasional trippers in our mid fifties. Looks easy to take care of and Tow n store. For two people and no kids, would you consider this a nice little set up for a good healthy couple in there fifties? Keep in mind we have a small pop up tent for shower and Lug a loo)

[@Turtle3863]

Yes it sounds like a good setup

[@mackenziefowler3072]

Hey thanks for the video! We have an a liner sportliner we purchased used from a private seller. After a couple years we still haven’t figured out how to use the battery/propane option for electricity. We used electric this weekend and noticed the battery was hot. Any advice here or know of any videos that would walk us through the “technology” part of the camper?

[@Turtle3863]

Wish I could help but my A liner was a basic one. Check out my 12 volt video on my bigger Geo Pro and that might help

[@terrymoseley168]

I am looking for a good used Aliner. Never have seen one in person. Is the top fairly easy to raise or is it heavy?

[@Turtle3863]

Most are really easy to setup, the bigger they are the harder the roof is to put up. They put in assist struts on the bigger ones but they can some times have problems. Keep with the 10 or 12 foot box ones and you should not have any trouble.

[@BlazinBlades]

Great video! How do you tow that small utility trailer you have there? Does it go behind the Aliner?

[@Turtle3863]

No, it tows on its own when needed

[@midonald1959]

How do you like the side air conditioner ? I’ve been looking to buy a used Aliner… I’ve heard several comments about the side air conditioner hanging out or coming loose from the camper ..

[@Turtle3863]

No problems with the AC on the side, the only complaint was that when the compressor kicks in at night when your asleep, the wall can bang a little and wake you up. Never have be a fan of AC when camping no mater what RV I am in.

[@jodyseaman1885]

If you stop for the night and leave the trailer connected, do you put the stabilizers down?

[@Turtle3863]

JODY SEAMAN you can to make it more stable, but it is not necessary. I have done both depending on how fast I wanted to get on the road in the morning.

[@billsnyder6826]

Hello, I am considering purchasing a used Aliner . How is yours holding up? Are they a quality made trailer ? What if any issues have you or other people had with A style trailers? I live in the NW and we get a lot of rain here, do A style trailers stay dry? Thank you, Bill

[@Turtle3863]

I up graded to a larger 19 foot Geo Pro for added room and bathroom. They are built well, check out my video on pros and cons.

[@dawnpeter2828]

Love the cover! Where did you find yours?

[@Turtle3863]

Academy sports

[@dawnpeter2828]

Thank you!!!!

[@mnfanann]

Nice job on video! Do you worry about storage under bed hitting fuse box and thermostat while in tow?

[@Turtle3863]

Ann Fan we only have the fuse box and we secure the drawers with Velcro

[@davervatx8814]

Can I use a cordless drill instead of the hand crank to lower and raise the stabilizer legs?

[@Turtle3863]

Yes

[@buddette3308]

Could you tell me a few vehicles that can tow this? Will a Toyota tacoma tow it?

[@Turtle3863]

It should

[@wandamunoz8861]

We liked ours but we sold it because there was just no room to put a comfy chair for old folks like us. Maybe could have a remodel?

[@Turtle3863]

That is also one of the reasons we sold ours

[@11lucygoosey]

Everybody forgets to remove the A/C cover???? Don't think so.

[@chuckmcg15]

Does it have a heater? If not, what do you do to warm up?

[@Turtle3863]

We used a small 300 watt ceramic heater as well as electric blankets

[@donaldlattimer2736]

Just plug in an electric heater, the propane heater works if you have 120AC. It will work off battery too but not for long, Yes the come with propane heaters .

[@xisotopex]

that first pic that pops up almost looks like letchworth state park.

[@Turtle3863]

It is at Cumberland Falls State Park, Kentucky

[@tjorg75]

Great vid. Where did you find the A/C cover? Thx Also see my reply to you below.

[@Turtle3863]

Ac cover came with Aliner

[@lisaelias8411]

Can you tow it with a small 4 cylinder Toyota?

[@Turtle3863]

I towed it with a 4 cylinder Honda CRV, with a tow max of 1500lbs

[@frododominion7796]

a perfect doomsday home

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

Mistake I made was getting a runaway camper. Need to be able to stand up. Seriously considering the A line. Did the AC cover mistake. After you do this it makes more noise.

[@Turtle3863]

GEAUX FRUGAL I I feel your pain, I had a T@G teardrop before I got my A liner and needed to be able to stand up.

[@DavidMedina4All]

Do you wish you would have gone with the Scout Park model?

[@Turtle3863]

I don't think they make that model anymore.

[@DavidMedina4All]

Turtle3863 Meant to say the “Scout.” It’s still an option on the Aliner website. There are 2020 models being sold. The Scout Lite will allow for more items we’d like to add since it weighs less. The Scout has wider beds though and the dinette is to the right of entrance.

[@Turtle3863]

Storytelling In Motion yes it has more room but the weigh is starting to get to where it would limit what you add to the the camper

[@DavidMedina4All]

Just called Aliner. The dry weight for Scout is 1395. Not much wiggle room when pulling with a RAV 4.

[@DavidMedina4All]

Turtle3863 just realized your last reply. 😊👍🏼

[@phxrsx]

Do they all come with AC?

[@Turtle3863]

Most do, but you can get them without

[@st6795]

I’ll stick with the Rockwood A212 better made then the A liner. Has a great storage front bin.

[@Turtle3863]

Would not mind having one but I had to go with the lightest A Frame in the business to tow behind my Honda CRV

[@DavidMedina4All]

Turtle3863 ditto.

[@PalmdaleGal]

@@Turtle3863 - I just bought a used 2006 Aliner Sportliner Weekender to pull with my 2007 Honda CR-V. So far have only towed it from IL where I bought from a private party, to southern CA home, but went just fine. Glad to know I may not have to trade for a heavier-duty tow vehicle (I won't be towing over tall mountains).

[@Turtle3863]

@@PalmdaleGal You might want to check out the weight on that unit, CRV are only rated at pulling 1500lbs

[@PalmdaleGal]

@@Turtle3863 - I checked with Aliner corporate to find out why there is such a weight difference in the older units and those built since they relocated to PA about 2008. They told me they beefed up the frames then, so that increased the weights on everything. I had the sellers weigh theirs before i comitted. if they were honest, empty, but with options added by original owner, it weighed in at about 1120 lbs. I'm solo (actually a widow) and try to travel light. Since I avoid mountain driving whenever possible anyway, I should be OK.

[@romantic340]

Do they leak at the top?

[@Turtle3863]

romantic340 no

[@birddog3130]

No 😆😆😆Door bell camera

[@missroxanne7123]

After watching this I don’t think I want one.

[@mcake1234]

Why are you puffing?

[@LeadmeUniverse]

That worried me too

[@janeprescott7381]

I find forcing things comment correct unless your a dentist pulling teeth.

[@joserivera1530]

Half of those mistakes are common sense. Duuhhhh

[@nancyblaisdell7464]

Thanks