Category: RV Repairs and Upgrades

Bertie Bea Parked in Birmingham South RV Park

Internet Connected Devices for the RV

December 17, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The internet has transformed how RVers manage and monitor their rigs, making it easier than ever to stay connected to essential systems, no matter where life takes you. In my RV, Bertie Bea, I’ve embraced this technology to keep track of critical details like interior temperatures, power status, propane levels, and refrigerator performance. Whether I’m parked at a campground or hundreds of miles away at home, these smart systems ensure that my rig stays safe, functional, and ready for my next adventure.

One of my most significant upgrades was installing the Micro-Air EasyTouch RV thermostat. This innovative thermostat connects via WiFi and Bluetooth, allowing me to remotely control Bertie Bea’s heating and cooling systems using my iPhone. It’s a game-changer for RVers who need flexible climate control, especially during unpredictable weather. For example, if I’m away during the holidays and a sudden cold snap hits, I can check the interior temperature and adjust the thermostat to keep the RV comfortable and prevent frozen pipes. The Micro-Air system is reliable, easy to use, and perfect for anyone looking to modernize their RV climate control. If you’re curious about this technology, you can find more details on Micro-Air’s website.

Micro-Air WiFi/Bluetooth Enabled Thermostats

I use the Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog 50 Amp EPO Gen II to ensure Bertie Bea always has a reliable power supply. Power issues at campgrounds, such as outages or surges, are more common than you’d think and can wreak havoc on an RV’s electronics. After experiencing a few scares with unstable power, I decided to protect Bertie Bea with this smart surge protector. The Hughes Watchdog shields my rig from damaging surges and allows me to monitor power status in real-time through its iPhone app. The device connects via WiFi and Bluetooth, sending detailed updates about voltage levels and alerting me to any issues. Whether I’m inside the RV or hundreds of miles away, I have complete peace of mind knowing my electrical systems are protected. Check out the Hughes Autoformers website to find the perfect surge protector for your RV.

Hughes Autoformers 50 amp Power Watchdog EPO Gen II — Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog Gen II 50 amp Surge Protector

I installed Mopeka Pro Check Sensors on both my onboard and external propane tanks for propane monitoring. These sensors pair with a Mopeka 2.4GHz WiFi Bridge to provide internet connectivity, allowing me to check propane levels from my phone. This has been particularly useful during winter when propane consumption tends to spike. For instance, if I’m away for a few days, I can quickly verify I have enough fuel to keep the RV heated without having to physically inspect the tanks. It’s a small upgrade that greatly impacts convenience and peace of mind. Check out the Mopeka IOT Propane products on their website.

Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on the internal propane tank — Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on the bottom of the internal propane tank

Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on portable propane tank — Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor installed on a portable propane tank

Together, these connected systems have completely changed how I interact with my RV. I no longer worry about what’s happening inside Bertie Bea when I’m not there. With a quick glance at my phone, I can confirm that the temperature is stable, the power is connected, the propane tanks are full, and the refrigerator is running as it should. This level of control and awareness makes all the difference when you’re managing a home on wheels.

Whether you’re a full-time RVer, a snowbird, or a weekend traveler, integrating smart technology into your RV can simplify your life and provide much-needed peace of mind. Knowing your rig is protected, comfortable, and ready for any adventure—no matter where you are—allows you to focus on enjoying the journey. These upgrades have been worth every penny, and I wouldn’t RV without them.

Ensuring Power on the Go: The RVI Towed Battery Charger and Keeping Your Connector Secure

October 10, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The maiden voyage of Bertie Bea and Rosie using a Blue Ox Towbar and the RVI Toad Battery Charger

For many RVers, towing a vehicle, or “toad,” behind their motorhome is common. It offers convenience once you’ve parked your rig, allowing you to explore the surrounding area without moving the motorhome. However, keeping the toad’s battery charged while towing can be challenging, especially on long trips. That’s where the RVI Towed Battery Charger comes in as a game-changer.

Why the RVI Towed Battery Charger is Essential

When towing a car behind your motorhome, auxiliary braking systems, like those made by RVi, often draw power from the towed vehicle’s battery. Over time, this constant drain can deplete your car’s battery, leading to frustrating delays when you arrive at your destination and find your toad’s battery dead. The RVI Towed Battery Charger solves this problem by keeping the battery topped off while you drive, ensuring your toad is ready to go when you are.

This intelligent charger pulls power from the motorhome and feeds it to the toad’s battery. It’s efficient, simple to install, and protects against overcharging, making it a must-have for anyone towing a vehicle regularly. It eliminates the worry of arriving at your destination only to deal with a dead battery, allowing you to focus on enjoying your travels.

Don’t Forget the Connector Between the Motorhome and Towed Vehicle

The existing connector on my 2018 Chevrolet Equinox had corroded and was not configured correctly to power the RVI Toad Battery Charger, resulting in a consistently dead battery.

Another crucial element in the towing setup is the connector between your motorhome and the towed vehicle. This connector relays power, signals for lights, and sometimes braking data between the two vehicles. Without a secure connection, you risk losing critical functions like brake lights, turn signals, or the ability to charge the toad’s battery through the RVI charger.

During my drive up to Long Pond, PA, and the Penn Coachmen 2024 Rally, the battery in my 2018 Chevrolet Equinox died after three hours of being towed. I found that my ‘toad’ connector was not wired correctly and was not charging the battery enough using the RVI Towed Battery Charger. At the 2024 Penn Coachmen Rally, I got help rewiring a brand-new connector with the charge line in the correct place to the front of the Equinox and tested it. All my lights worked, and the battery charged.

On the drive back home, I did not have to worry about my car’s battery dying, and when I arrived at my evening campsite, Rosie started right up.

A word of advice: Before hitting the road, double-check the connector to ensure it’s securely plugged in. Inspect it for any wear, corrosion, or loose wires that could cause a disconnect while driving. Testing your lights and brake signals before departing is also a good idea to ensure everything functions properly.

A loose or damaged connector can affect the battery charging and create a safety hazard if your brake lights or turn signals fail to work. Make it part of your routine to inspect and secure the connection between your motorhome and toad before every journey.

Conclusion: Smooth Travels with RVI and a Secure Connector

Combining an RVI Towed Battery Charger and a reliable connector between your motorhome and toad vehicle ensures your travels are worry-free. The charger keeps your toad’s battery topped off, while an adequately maintained connector ensures that all systems work in sync. Together, they provide peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the road ahead without unnecessary breakdowns or electrical issues.

Whether you’re headed out for a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, these small steps can make a big difference in keeping your towed vehicle and motorhome running smoothly.

You can see how badly separated the front fiberglass cap is separated from the frame.

Front Cap Separation Repair on Bertie Bea

May 12, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

When I brought Bertie Bea home in March 2023, I noticed the fascia covering the seam between her front cap and the rest of the coach was starting to come loose. Though it didn’t deter me from buying her, with 10,301 miles of cherished memories across the United States, I grew concerned as I noticed the separation worsening.

In December, I paid $1,100 to have Blue Compass RV in Montgomery, Alabama, repair it. Unfortunately, their fix felt more like a temporary solution. Despite their efforts, the separation persisted, worsening after a trip to Tucson for the FMCA Fiesta Del Sol International Convention.

Contacting Tiffin Service revealed it was a known issue. To tackle it, they advised removing the fascia and adding screws to secure the fiberglass front cap to the steel frame. Skeptical, I sought advice on the Tiffin Motorhomes Technical Forum on Facebook. Many owners had faced similar issues and recommended the same fix, with some even sharing a helpful YouTube tutorial.

Here’s how to go about it:

Tools and Parts Needed:

#6 x 1″ Stainless Steel Pan-Head Metal Screws
Loctite Permanent Thread Locker
7/64″ Metal Drill Bit
Double-Sided Alien Tape or Double-Sided Butyl Tape for reattaching the fascia
Tube of Clear Silicone Caulk for post-repair sealing
Drill for making holes and attaching screws
Razor Knife for removing the fascia

Repair Steps:

Remove the Fascia: Use a razor knife to gently strip the fascia from the seam. Examine the exposed area; you’ll likely notice wear and tear from being inadequately attached.
Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes for the screws. Apply a small amount of Loctite to prevent them from loosening during travel.
Cover Unused Holes: If you encounter holes that lead to nowhere, seal them with Alien Tape.
Secure the Front Cap: Install the screws to firmly secure the front cap to the frame. Ensure the structure feels stable and the seam appears smooth.
Reattach the Fascia: Use three well-spaced strips of Alien Tape to secure the fascia back onto the coach. In my video, I used a strip of Gorilla double-sided tape before a friend of mine brought me a roll of Alien Tape, which is much preferred for this type of application.
Seal the Repair: Apply a bead of clear silicone caulk along both sides of the fascia to seal the repair completely.

Use a razor knife to break the seal of the fascia and remove it for reattachment post-repair

The screws have been added and the repair is ready to have the fascia reattached.

The fascia has been reattached and you can see that the gap that was there previously has been removed.

With these steps, your repair should endure the lifetime of the coach, ensuring Bertie Bea remains road-ready for many more adventures.

Keep your Black and Grey Tanks Flowing

April 28, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Wandering Gypsy RV Life – Episode 1

Ah, the glamorous world of RV life! When I first dipped my toes into the Wandering Gypsy RV Life back in 2020, I was as clueless as a fish in a desert. My buddy Bessie and I hit the road with high hopes and low knowledge, especially when it came to keeping those tanks clean and happy.

Now, I knew enough to toss some tank maintenance chemicals in there – you know, the stuff you grab from the RV aisle at Walmart or Camping World? But little did I know, I was basically treating my holding tank like it was auditioning for a role in “Swamp People.” Yup, those chemicals were breaking down solids faster than my plans on a rainy day, leaving behind a sludgy mess that wouldn’t budge.

Fast forward to March 2023, and I found myself at my second FMCA Rally in Perry, Georgia, rubbing shoulders with the RV elite. That’s where I met Jack from Kleen Tank, the hero I never knew I needed. When he got his hands on Bertha’s tanks, I spilled the beans about my perpetual sensor woes. Turns out, Bertha was carrying around more sludge than a teenager’s Instagram feed – no wonder those sensors were on the fritz!

But fear not, dear readers, for Jack came bearing wisdom and a recipe for tank success. Forget those harsh chemicals – we’re talking Pine-Sol and Calgon Bath Beads, the dynamic duo of tank maintenance. Mix ’em up just right, pour ’em in, and voila! You’ve got yourself a recipe for clean tanks and happy travels.

So now, whenever Bertie Bea’s feeling a bit weighed down, I whip up a batch of that magic solution and give those tanks a good soak. Add in a splash of water for good measure, and we’re back in business, baby!

Kleen Tank Recipe

Mix eight ounces of Calgon Ageless Bath Pearls and 40 ounces of PINE-SOL® in a one-gallon jug. Fill the jug with water. Shake gently and allow any foam to settle down. Use four to eight ounces (as directed) in each tank, every time you have emptied them.
https://kleentank.com/tank-solution-recipe/

Remember, folks, a little maintenance goes a long way in the RV world. Keep those tanks happy, and you’ll avoid more disasters than a “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” marathon. Trust me, your nose will thank you later!

via GIPHY

And hey, if you see me on the road, be sure to wave – I’ll be the one with the sparkling clean tanks and the big ol’ grin on my face! 🚍✨

Protect Your RV from Water Issues

January 27, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

In the past three years, I have learned much about protecting Bessie, Bertha, and Bertie Bea from water and temperature changes. Bertha received a new roof from Flex Armor Greensboro, and Bertie Bea has received regular maintenance since I bought her in March 2023.

What do you do while you live in the RV full-time?

For Bertie Bea, I have added water leak sensors from AiDot in strategic places to ensure no water infiltration. And, if they alarm, drying the areas out as quickly as possible. The water leak sensor under the shower has gone off several times due to a lousy shower seal. I will be fixing the shower seal shortly to resolve this issue.

AIDot Water Leak Sensor Under Shower Water Lines and Shower Bay

AIDot Water Leak Sensor Under Sink Water Lines

The AiDot Water Leak Sensor System includes a WiFi-enabled hub and three water leak sensors that allow you to set them where you need them to monitor for water leaks. I can attest that the alarm will definitely get your attention along with the push notifications and text messages so that you know exactly where water is infiltrating. The AiDot mobile application gives you all the data to keep your RV safe from water issues.

AiDot Water Leak Sensor Information as seen in the AiDot iPhone mobile application

AiDot Water Leak Sensor leak notification information in the AiDot iPhone mobile application

Water issues can ruin any trip to your home away from home, but with strategic water leak sensors, you can ensure your space is safe from water leaks. Ensure you’re doing everything you can to protect your space from water issues.

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Bertha Gets Some Furniture Updates and Upgrades

December 15, 2021 / Stan.Cromlish / 2 Comments

New Theater Seating being Installed in Bertha

The sofa that came in Bertha was uncomfortable and didn’t allow for anything more than a place to sit or as a pull-out bed, a place to sleep. I spent the entirety of my Summer 2021 RV Adventure complaining about it. So, on November 5, I took Bertha to Quality RV in North Belmont for her scheduled maintenance and a furniture upgrade.

In doing my research, I found that the Thomas Payne Seismic Theater Seating by Lippert would fit my needs perfectly. The Seismic theater seating comes with power recline  and lumbar functionalities, a chaise-style footrest, heated seats, and massage options,  LED lighting,  dual  cupholders, a storage compartment, and a fold-down center console. The cost for the furniture with shipping was roughly, $2,250.00. Installation would be an additional charge from Quality RV.

The dinette cushions after spending my summer using the dinette for eight to twelve-hour workdays were beginning to flake and crack at the edges. When I returned home on October 23, I decided that I would need to get them recovered and have the foam replaced since it had weakened over time as well. I went to J&J Auto Upholstery in Gastonia, North Carolina, and showed him the cushions. He quoted me $225 per cushion to recover and replace the foam. Three weeks later, the cushions looked great and the foam will allow me to work comfortably for hours.

The installation looks great and will give me years of enjoyment. I can’t wait to use them on my Winter 2022 trip which starts on December 30th with a visit to Kick Back Ranch & Event Center in Alabama.