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MobileBasset's avatar
MobileBasset
Explorer
Nov 24, 2013

Newbie 3 month report

Right out of the gate, 1/2 mile down the road after I took delivery, my brand new 2014 Itasca Spirit shut down with a broken fuel line at the fuel tank connector (learned this after repair). It took 6 hours after my call to Good Sam Roadside Assistance to get it towed to the shop. So I was right away rudely introduced to the roadside assistance process. This was in metropolitan Orlando, not out in the far country. Anyway, since then there have been no problems. I have taken 3 trips to various Florida state parks, all of which were great. I posted the pictures on the Class C campsite photo thread.

I am the type of person who researches everything ad infinitum. I read the owners manual several times before I even purchased the RV LOL. And I read everything on this forum and others also. So I tried very hard to be prepared for my first trips and not do damage to myself, my hounds, or the RV. So far I have not incurred any damage, although there is plenty of chance ahead for that. But I have experienced numerous OOPS moments. OOPS I forgot to fasten a storage bay, put up the entry step, unload a bag of frozen chickpeas from the freezer before storing it. OOPS I ran over the curb on that turn, didn't see that broken hanging branch in time on that tree that hadn't been a problem before, etc,etc. Seems like every trip I will miss a turn and have to find a place to turn around. This RV stuff will keep you humble. There is a GPS in my future if for no other reason than to warn me into the correct lane in a timely manner. (I have one on my iPad - just haven't bothered to use it.)

After 3 months I am a better driver and can get the rig ready to roll faster. And it seems like I have bought and loaded everything there is in the world to buy for an RV. Now I can relax and think about where to go next.

Wave to me when you pass.
Class C
  • MobileBasset's avatar
    MobileBasset
    Explorer
    Nov 29, 2013
    My Itasca step is manual. Since I made the mistake of forgetting it (very soon after purchase) I have solved the problem by placing a fat hair clip on my steering wheel when I stop the vehicle. It is labeled "STEP" . Very simple and I have had no further problems. I also have one for the antenna that I keep on the antenna winder handle until I use it - then it goes on the steering wheel. I also have all the lists folks have mentioned. I have learned there is a difference between having a list and properly addressing the list. My process has gotten much more thorough. I only forgot to pack socks on my last trip. I'm solving that by including socks on my permanent RV item list so they will go back and forth to the RV with the other RV laundry.
  • Mich_F's avatar
    Mich_F
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2013
    The OP has not been back to tell us if he has an electric step. Since it's a 2014 Itasca Spirit, I don't believe it came from the factory with an electric step.
  • pnichols's avatar
    pnichols
    Explorer II
    Nov 26, 2013
    Our automatic coach step is not powered by the coach batteries ... it's powered by the main engine battery. Whenever the main engine is started, the step gets automatically retracted.

    We do have a separate step switch right by the coach entry door where the step is that can be switched to keep the step out regardless of what you do with the coach entry door - we leave the switch in this position to keep the step always out when camping. Normally the coach entry door opening/closing will open and close the automatic step.

    However, no matter what position the step switch is in, starting of the main chassis engine will always close the step.

    Obviously, this kind of setup is only possible with a motorhome, not with a towable RV.
  • Captjack's avatar
    Captjack
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2013
    pnichols wrote:
    I notice that you mentioned something about forgetting to put up the entry step?

    I'm curious about what you said, as my Itasca has an electric step that automatically retracts whenever the engine is started, no matter what position the electric step mode control switch by the entry door was left in.


    If you turn off the battery switch (if you have one) then the step will either stay out or in. I was taking my rig to a storage facility on a military base and had turned off the batt at home with the step out. When I approached the gate, the antiterrorist barrier ripped my step off and damaged the door. Another learning experience.
  • Bordercollie's avatar
    Bordercollie
    Explorer
    Nov 24, 2013
    Make a check list for the cockpit with stuff like this


    Arrival: Check for any obstructions overhead and on sides when backing into a site. Fold side mirrors against rig if doable. Place a fool- proof signal flag on steering wheel that reminds you that TV antenna is up.Put receipt on post.

    When you get ready to leave: Lower TV antenna, disconnect TV cable, shore power cable, and water hose from utility post and RV and stow before leaving. If you have sewer hose connected,put on sanitary gloves, dump tanks, and shut black and gray valves, rinse sewer hose, let drain and stow it, wash hands. Look all around and under RV and at utility post for your tools, lawn chairs, etc. Check and make sure awning is stowed and locked securely. Pick up any trash or dog waste. Take receipt off post and return at gate if needed, tell gate man that you are leaving. Write down site number for future reference if you liked it.
  • Coach-man's avatar
    Coach-man
    Explorer
    Nov 24, 2013
    Make yourself some check lists, one for leaving, one for setting up, read all the literature, and be as complete as possible. The use the check list to make sure you have not forgotten anything, and you are doing it in the correct order! You may have to revise this list from time to time, add, move, change or delete some items but by following it it will help guide you through what needs to be done. Get input from others and then start enjoying the RV lifestyle!!
  • Matt_Colie's avatar
    Matt_Colie
    Explorer II
    Nov 24, 2013
    First - you will be learning about it until you sell it....

    Next - buy a dedicated GPS for the dash if you plan to travel outside of Florida. As soon as you get somewhere remote, the app in the iPad will dump you.

    Last - When you find yourself behind, slow down and let your mind catch up.

    Matt
  • EMD360's avatar
    EMD360
    Explorer
    Nov 24, 2013
    Wow, a brand new unit to learn on?
    We had a great experience with Good Sam roadside out on the highway in Kansas. The receptionist on the phone was not the sharpest tack, but the vendor who came out was really nice. We didn't have to tow, just thought I needed more oil than I had onboard. I bought a full 6 quarts and the guy did not overcharge for it. Nice thing is the number of vendors they have in their network and their distribution.
    Sounds like you are on your way to lots of great times! Nothing more fun than buying "upgrades" for the RV. I sure had a good time anyway. Don't overlook secondhand items. That is how we got our foldable ladder, the leveling blocks, and a few more items.
  • pa_traveler's avatar
    pa_traveler
    Explorer
    Nov 24, 2013
    Sounds like your having fun,we like basset hounds. Ive been trying to find time to read thru my owners manual on my boat ,all about the engine ect. Guess I always read instructions last.But wish I would read them first.
  • Jim_Shoe's avatar
    Jim_Shoe
    Explorer
    Nov 24, 2013
    I can save you a little time when driving through Atlanta, and you don't need a GPS for it. Don't drive in the right hand lane - it exits. At every exit. :)

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