Newbie Questions that scare him
As a first time RV here, going full time, in a 2002 Newmar Dutch star 40 foot diesel, 50k miles, there are things that I just don't understand yet and SCARE THE HECK OUT OF ME. 1) Just how often do...
Forum Discussion
Regarding wait times for repairs.. . we have found and from conversations with other full-timers, that if the repair facility knows it's your home they are not going to let you sit and wait and wait and wait. Most often you'll be in and out in a couple days, if that. The facility will let you stay on their lot overnight and most often, will supply electric. Some of the major facilities like a Cummins might even have full hookups.
It's when folks bring their RVs to a facility and drop them off that the wait time increases.
What to do while you wait? First of all, it's highly recommend that you tow a vehicle behind your motorhome. This also helps if you break down in the boonies. You can always drive somewhere for a better cell signal or other help.
The common procedure for major repairs would be for the repair facility to state that they'll be bringing your motorhome in the bay and they'll pick it up at 7am. They don't mean 7:15am. They will be there at 7am. :) So pack everything you'll need for during the day, including meds and food/drinks in a cooler, and load it in your towed vehicle. Also pack your valuables - extra money you might have stashed, your computer, etc. Then go out for a leisurely breakfast.
During the day you can take in a movie, walk the mall, drive and do nearby siteseeing to explore that new area you're in, go to the library and find a comfy chair and read, go to a local park, spread a blanket and take a nap, etc.
Your day will pass soon. Return to the repair facility and hopefully they'll be finished.
For routine maintenance as you travel, make an appointment so you're guaranteed to get in the service bay on time.
Also, the majority of diesel-driving full-timers do not work on their own vehicles. First, most campgrounds would not allow this. Even changing the oil would be difficult because of the vast amount used. Secondly, vehicles have become more complicated nowadays. You'll do just fine as full-timers. Keep up your maintenance and you won't have massive breakdowns. Stop worrying and enjoy your full-timing. We did for 16 years.
It's when folks bring their RVs to a facility and drop them off that the wait time increases.
What to do while you wait? First of all, it's highly recommend that you tow a vehicle behind your motorhome. This also helps if you break down in the boonies. You can always drive somewhere for a better cell signal or other help.
The common procedure for major repairs would be for the repair facility to state that they'll be bringing your motorhome in the bay and they'll pick it up at 7am. They don't mean 7:15am. They will be there at 7am. :) So pack everything you'll need for during the day, including meds and food/drinks in a cooler, and load it in your towed vehicle. Also pack your valuables - extra money you might have stashed, your computer, etc. Then go out for a leisurely breakfast.
During the day you can take in a movie, walk the mall, drive and do nearby siteseeing to explore that new area you're in, go to the library and find a comfy chair and read, go to a local park, spread a blanket and take a nap, etc.
Your day will pass soon. Return to the repair facility and hopefully they'll be finished.
For routine maintenance as you travel, make an appointment so you're guaranteed to get in the service bay on time.
Also, the majority of diesel-driving full-timers do not work on their own vehicles. First, most campgrounds would not allow this. Even changing the oil would be difficult because of the vast amount used. Secondly, vehicles have become more complicated nowadays. You'll do just fine as full-timers. Keep up your maintenance and you won't have massive breakdowns. Stop worrying and enjoy your full-timing. We did for 16 years.
