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Coacher12's avatar
Coacher12
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013

Taking delivery on TT, what do I need???

We pick up our new Catalina 272 DBS Tuesday :B. What do we need to buy for our trailer next? Obviously we need fresh water hose, sewer and grey water hose. Does anyone have any suggestions on what brand to buy, and what other things do we need to make our first trips enjoyable?
  • Good question and there is lots of excellent info here already but here are few more to think about. A spare set of fuses and some light bulbs. A tire repair kit, gauge, bottle jack, jack stand, torque wrench and a portable compressor have all come in handy (3 flats, one blow out in 3 years). Put together a tool kit just for the trailer. I got a couple of canvas tool bags at Home Depot and filled them with tools (Harbor freight is a good source). Don't forget the wire crimping tool with an assortment of fittings. A thorough discussion of what to put n your tool bag is a whole new thread but don't forget wire ties and several varieties of tape from electrical to Gorilla.

    A decent selection of stainless steel screws, nuts, washers and bolts can often save the day as well. A spare trailer brakes switch kit (about $15), will be priceless if the original ever gets damaged. I also carry a couple of extra awning latches (the ones that secure the awning flush to the trailer when you drive down the road), being plastic they will break eventually.

    A serious first aid kit, not one of the $9.95er's from Walmart and at least two Type A,B ,& C fire extinguishers. Being able to reach into a tool/spare bag and pull out the the requisite spare and having the proper tools and knowledge to install it is a wonderful experience.... don't ask me how I know this. :B
  • One thing to remember as you look at gizmos for saving space or weight... you don't have to have a RV specific whatever.

    Lots of the handy items are found in housewares sections of big box stores and home improvement stores or even resale stores. My towels came from discount store - I wanted new and cheaper thinner ones dry quicker. Plastic dishes were bought on clearance at end of summer sale at walmart. I have noticed Lowes and Home Depot carry lots of cabinet organizers, but WalMart has a good selection to start.
  • Good suggestions above. I would also add wheel chocks, chemicals (your preference) for the black water tank, tools, good quality hydraulic jack, good quality flashlight, and a butane extension lighter. We prefer to have an entire set of kitchen ware instead of moving items back and forth.
    I'm sure folks will add many more items, but that is all that I can think of right at the moment.
    The one thing that I would do, is make up a check list of what you need. You may want to camp in your driveway once to figure out what you need before you end up on the road.
  • The Rhino sewer hose is highly regarded. You don't need a separate gray hose.
    As far as a fresh water hose, look for one that'd flexible. I have a nice 50' one and an el cheapo 25'. Many times a 15' hose will suffice.
    Better figure in a water pressure regulator, many people opt for a Watts. A filter is optional.
    An extension cord for the 30A electrical can come in handy on occasion.
    DW has accumulated enough plates, silverware, glassware and cooking utensils that the TT is stocked at all times. Ditto for bedding.
    An inexpensive digital voltmeter is handy for electrical troubleshooting.