Forum Discussion

salvatorejrm's avatar
salvatorejrm
Explorer
Apr 11, 2014

our first class c a 1993 fleetwood jamboree searcher

We just bought our first class c. Looking forward to some fun trips with the family this summer. Any pointers would be appreciated. Thanks
  • New RV's can have problems, old RV's can have problems or will develop them. Try to detect problems and fix them as needed so that they don't mess up a touring or camping adventure or limit the full enjoyment of your rig.
    The goal is to have a MH that can go across the country and return safely and comfortably.
  • First thing we did on our class c was took to
    rv service and had propane gas test done.
    They found water heater regulator had leak and
    propane tank valve wouldn't close. Replaced both.
    On another class c the propane tank hose had pin hole
    leak in it. Propane leaks are dangerous so to be safe
    have them checked, especially on older rv's.
  • You're welcome. When you finally have your rig ready to do some serious touring and camping, be sure to take your family's perscription meds, dog rabies vacinnation records, cell phone and camera chargers, eyeglasses and OTC drug store supplies, basic tool kit,flash lights,fuse kit, multimeter, duct tape, bailing wire, Crazy glue, etc. Go light on clothes, need underwear and socks, levis, walking shoes, jackets, sunglasses and busy kits for kids. Bring lunch meat etc for eating on the road, buy groceries along the way as needed.

    Have a system to make sure that TV antenna is down before driving off and that awning is securely stowed and can't unfurl while driving. Have somebody get out and guide you while you are backing into a camp spot. Change lanes on freeways only when it is safe. Use GPS to plan for off ramps and merges.

    http://awninglock.com/index.shtml
  • Drive it around locally some also after you have a mechanic go through it. Better than getting a few hundred miles from home if a hidden problem shows up.

    I only use mine a couple times a month but try to at least drive it once every week or two if I'm not camping. Letting it sit is not good for it. Try to park it when at home on a hard waterproof surface. Ground moisture especially from a lawn or dirt is a killer on the underside.
  • If possible, make your first camping trip in your yard or driveway.

    You will be able to use all the systems of your C while at home.
    Then you will have a better idea of what you may need or want when you hit the road.

    Enjoy your travels.
  • For your safety and safety of others on the road: Make sure all tires are correct load range and that their date codes indicate that they are no older than 4-5 years old and that sidewall cracks, if any, are not deep enough for concern. Tires on RV's become dangerous sitting parked in sunlight and weather and when they blow or come apart,they can cause loss of control and severe damage to the underside parts of the RV. Have entire brake system inspected and serviced as needed. Front flexible brake hoses should be replaced if that has not been done recently. Have brake fluid flushed and replaced to prevent brake fade on grades and calipers lubricated to prevent dragging. Have engine cooling system tested and all belts and hoses replaced as needed. Of course, test all housebox appliances in gas and electric modes, RV generator, housebox and starting batteries, converter that charges the house batteries, roof air conditioner, dash air conditioner, awning, furnace, water heater, fresh water pump and all faucets, shower, toilet. Fixing things relating to safety and comfort can help insure a happy motorhome experience. Being stuck for days 500 miles from home, with a serious breakdown, and paying through the nose to get back on the road can be nightmarish. Been there!!!
  • One thing we learned when we had a class C years ago was that we needed to make sure to get everything we needed - food, firewood, etc. - before setting up in camp. It's kind of a pain to undo everything just to go get wood or hot dog buns. If your RV is large enough to tow a small car or stow bikes, you might consider that, at least for places where you'll want to base camp and go sightseeing. In some places, you may be able to rent a car for sightseeing & errands - worth thinking about!
  • j-d's avatar
    j-d
    Explorer II
    Welcome and Congratulations!

    There's a ton of "chassis" things to check like Tires, Brakes, Hoses, but you also need to make sure you know how to operate the "house" systems. And that you have the supplies you need to actually camp once you arrive at a site.

    For that reason, set it up at home if you can, and "camp" in it where you can run inside and get what you forgot.

    Did you get manuals for things like Fridge, A/C, Generator, Awning? If so, study them and then try those systems.

    Then a weekend trip. Most RVers will help others. Answer questions, pitch in on two-person tasks, etc.

    Study what's involved in using the Fresh Water Tank (probably sanitize it), and the Gray and Black Holding Tanks. You'll need a Drinking Water hose, a Dump Hose, Tank Chemicals...

    Sounds like a long list but it's not at all that bad.