Forum Discussion

summertonic's avatar
summertonic
Explorer
Jan 02, 2018

New Driver

I have just purchased a 40 ft motor home and need to drive it from New Mexico to Michigan in April. I have driven a 36 ft 5th wheel for several years but never a motor home. I have watched several video's and have read many blogs on driving. What's your opinion on driving one that far without any special training? I have looked for RV driving schools in the east and midwest but nothing available before then. Your thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.
Jim

26 Replies

  • Thanks for your quick response. I'll keep on with the training videos...And, I did get a deal on one that bends in the middle :-)
  • We went from a 32 Ft TT to a 34 foot Class A. I feel much for comfortable driving the Class A and making turns than I did pulling the TT and making turns!
  • You should be fine. Just remember that it doesn't bend in the middle like that fiver did....LOL! I've gotten to the point that I don't start turning until my knee is in line with the middle of the lane I'm turning into. Also, be aware that the tendency for Class A Drivers, especially new ones, is to drive too far to the right of the lane. It initially feels right to do so, but the steering wheel is positioned further towards the center of the drive than a car or pickup so you think you are closer to the center line that you really are. Use your mirrors to stay in the center of the lane and don't inadvertently hang the outside dually off the side of the road. As said above, definitely be aware of how tall your rig is and know the clearances along the route. As long as you stick to interstates, the clearances should not be an issue. I suspect that after a hundred miles or so you'll feel like a pro!
  • Ivylog's avatar
    Ivylog
    Explorer III
    Not that much difference...can't cut corners and it's big. Park on a line in a parking lot, right side, and put a piece of tape on the bottom of the windshield so you can tell when you are at the edge of the road without looking in the mirror...easy to hang the outside dual tire off the pavement.

    Biggest difference is it's easy to oversteer because of the long wheel base...takes longer for steering inputs to take affect. On a Interstate practice seeing how little steering wheel inputs will keep it between the lines. Would help to know which rig.

    Welcome to the forums.
  • And, make sure you have the proper MI license for your size/weight vehicle.

    Your home state determines what license you need. All other states honor your home state's drivers license.
  • Take your turns wide, give more room to stop, and check heights.

    We took our 36' with toad MI to AZ and back without alot of prior driving. As you go you will find that each day is a learning experience. Use the freeways at a slower speed and you will gain confidence quickly.