orggardn
Explorer
Joined 20 years ago
User Profile
User Widgets
All Activity
Re: Transitioning to 1st Fifth Wheel
Thanks to all for the points to ponder and the advice. I had planned a 3/4 ton, though I must say, had not considered a 1T. I figure there's hardly any way to have "too much" truck (and we do plan some excursions through the mountains at some point). I'll look at those. The backing / turning / driving - you've reaffirmed what I've heard from others. Once you go to a 5th wheel, you'll love it. There's a local community college with a nice parking lot, where I took the TT when we first got it (gotta find those orange cones I put in the attic, someplace). The one area looks like I'll need to really dig in an research is the hitch. So glad to hear that process is not as onerous as I had imagined. Just looks difficult. Hitch/pin systems are still a mystery. Fixed/sliders..... with/without cushioning systems....etc. I haven't really started that process yet, so will dig in. Always glad to come to a place where those who know, are willing to share and teach others. Thanks!!371Views0likes0CommentsTransitioning to 1st Fifth Wheel
Well, retirement is almost upon me (December if all goes well) and we're looking hard at a 5th wheel and a new tow rig to start things off right. Problem is, I'm not sure how to get started. I've towed multiple popups and a travel travel (+ tons of farm implements), never anything with an in bed hitch. The big question is - "is there a good place to get educated on how to get started in the 5th wheel world?" We've pick out a fiver, but need to know: - how to match a tow vehicle to it - how to select a hitch - how to tow the darn thing (this really has me a bit skittish) We're planning several "local" outings to get used to the rig and shake out some of the initial bugs. Then, head out for a couple of 4-6 week explorations. FYI, specs for the unit we've picked out: SHIPPING WEIGHT: 7035 LBS CARRYING CAPACITY: 2965 LBS HITCH: 1405 LBS LENGTH: 28'11" HEIGHT: 11'11" I'd appreciate your pointing me in the right direction. I'm a good reader and a quick learner.......5.8KViews0likes20CommentsRe: Do they cut hose end off at dump station on purpose?
Wow..... isn't this special. Sure didn't know this was going to invoke the proverbial sh*t storm when I asked the question. Usually, I say "thanks" for all the feedback, not sure that's appropriate here. Seriously, I did read every post and did learn something - which I try to do each and every day.522Views0likes0CommentsRe: Running lights not working - how to troubleshoot?
I did take a small file and hit the trailer side connectors with it to get a clean(er) base. I did not do the truck side. You know..... seems like I was having to wriggle it a bit a while back to get it work. Sounds like a good cleaning is in order. Westend - are you saying your truck has a separate fuse for just the lights? and brakes and signals is on another? If it's a single fuse, then I don't think it's that as I had turn signals and brakes, just no running and tail lights. Thanks guys.....928Views0likes0CommentsDo they cut hose end off at dump station on purpose?
Well, I'm buggered off..... only once since I installed my Tornado rinsing system into the black tank, have I found a hose at the dump station with threads. Every other time, the hose end has been cut. I'm assuming to prevent really rude people from taking way too long to try and clean every particle out of their tanks. I have a Water Thief connected to the Tornado and try to jam it onto the hose, but the back pressure blows it off every time. I try and hold it with my hands, but usually end up getting drenched as the pressure is just too much. I've tried crimping the hose and throttling the pressure, but that has had limited success. Am I missing something? I really want to use the system, as that one time (and a choice few when I could "hold" the Water Thief on), it really pushed a lot more out of the tanks. Appreciate your help...... **NOTE: I am NOT going to haul buckets of water in and out of the trailer at the dump station. I really need a "connection" option to work.9.5KViews0likes77CommentsRunning lights not working - how to troubleshoot?
I had an odd problem when I connected the 7 pin connector to my F150. Usually, I turn my headlights in full "on" mode, so when I'm behind the truck and the connector seats - I see the running lights come on. On Friday, I tried and no running lights. Must have fiddled with it for 20 minutes, with a sickening feeling that the trip may have to be cancelled. I finally thought, I'll try the turn signals....sure enough turn signals and brake lights worked. No running lights, no tail lights. I checked the dash and the trailer sensor for brakes connected was functioning properly. Since we would travel both directions in the daylight, we went on, without incident. Now that I'm back, I need to get that resolved, but don't know where to start. In the truck? In the trailer? At the connector? My trailer wiring IQ is pretty low..... so suggestions in newbie terms please. Thanks. **NOTE: item of note. I had an electric jack installed since the last time we went out. Is there perhaps a connection there?7.4KViews0likes15CommentsRe: What battery? - if we never dry camp
As always, good timely advice. On the way to Costco at lunch to look at marine battery options. The solar charger options sound interesting. I've looked a few, but most seem to be designed for the "interior" of the car. Is there a good choice for using in the weather (on the battery box - removed while trailering)? I will also look for a battery tender and remove the battery to the garage for the winter. Thanks.326Views0likes0CommentsWhat battery? - if we never dry camp
Just had my trailer in and had the brakes and bearings serviced. While there, had them install the Husky electric jack. Thinking that my breakaway brakes ran from the truck connection, I had been running without one. I now know better. So I am in the market for a battery. The only use will be for the breakaway and the power jack. We never dry camp (at least not in the last 20 years). Is there any need to get anything other than an auto battery? What would you recommend? Auto or otherwise..... Since we won't use it much, what would be the best way to maintain it?1.9KViews0likes8Comments
Groups
Fifth Wheel Group
Interested in fifth wheels? You've come to the right spot.Feb 16, 202519,006 Posts RV Newbies
We all start out new. Share lessons learned or first-time questions!Jun 15, 20174,026 Posts Travel Trailer Group
Prefer to camp in a travel trailer? You're not alone.Feb 06, 202544,025 Posts
