Tag: RV Rallies

Rally Repairs, Road Wisdom & Windy Wyoming Days

June 28, 2025 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

A Week of Maintenance, Mayhem, and Miles of Smiles in Rock Springs

If you’ve ever wondered whether RV rallies are worth your time, let me give you a peek into the week I’ve had parked at the Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyoming. Spoiler alert: rallies are absolutely worth it—not just for the community, but for the chance to give your rig (and tow car) some much-needed TLC.

🚿 The Water Heater That Tried to Kill Me

The calcium buildup that came out of the water heater looked like I was farming kidney stones.

Let’s start with the big one. Bertie Bea, my trusty Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA, had her Suburban water heater cleaned out by my friends at Kleen Tank of North Carolina—a trusted partner of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life. What came out of that tank looked like I’d been farming kidney stones in there. I mean it. The calcium buildup was so bad, I expected a call from a geology professor asking to study it.

Used anode rod after a year of use in Bertie Bea. Replaced it after cleaning out the water heater.

They gave me a D grade on the tank… and only spared me an F because there wasn’t corrosion. (Thanks for the mercy, folks!) Moral of the story? Don’t wait a year between cleanings like I did.

🛠️ Roadmaster Saves the Day

Changed out the plug on Rosie and made sure all the wiring was correct by Roadmaster.

Rallies like this one often come with bonus perks—like free safety inspections from manufacturers. I took advantage of one by Roadmaster, who checked my tow bar and discovered an issue I hadn’t noticed. They’re fixing it under warranty, and while they’re at it, Rosie (my 2016 Chevy Equinox tow car) is getting a brand-new charge line and plug installed.

Why? Because dead batteries while towing are about as fun as a surprise hailstorm in the Badlands. Hopefully, this upgrade puts those issues in the rearview mirror.

🌬️ Tackling the Wind With ShadePro

Now let’s talk about Wyoming wind. You know you’re in the West when you step outside and feel like you’re in a wind tunnel testing facility. Slide toppers? Flapping like flags at a rodeo parade.

Now the shades match and they are thicker than the Tiffin OEM shades which will keep Bertie Bea cooler and more energy efficient. We didn’t replace the front power shade.

Enter: ShadePro—another one of my trusted partners. Not only did they tighten the tension on my slide toppers to stop the flapping, but they’re also installing new interior shades inside Bertie Bea. Cooler, quieter, and much easier on the eyes when the sun’s beating down—these shades are going to be a game-changer.

🎙️ Tech Talk & Podcasting on the Road

I’ve also been here representing TechnoRV for the launch of our brand-new audio and video podcast:

🎧 On the Road with TechnoRV

We’ve been capturing rally moments, sharing tech tips, and talking with vendors and RVers alike. You can find the show on your favorite podcast platforms—and of course, on YouTube.

If you’re even thinking about upgrading your gear or learning how to get more out of your RV tech, TechnoRV’s seminars at these rallies are worth the stop alone.

🔎 Scavenger Hunts and RV Camaraderie

Oh—and if you’re looking for a little fun, the Wandering Gypsy RV Life team is joining the learntorv.com scavenger hunt. It’s open to anyone who RVs and is the perfect mix of friendly competition and creative chaos. Think campground hide-and-seek with bonus points for ingenuity and snacks.

Final Thoughts

So here’s the big takeaway: rallies aren’t just for the extroverts or longtime RVers. They’re for anyone who wants to take better care of their rig, learn from the pros, and connect with a welcoming community that understands why we live this lifestyle in the first place.

In one week, I handled overdue maintenance, upgraded my tow setup, made Rosie road-ready again, learned new tips, and even had time for a few laughs and campfire stories.

And that, my friends, is what the RV life is all about.

Until next time—

Stay curious. Stay rolling.

And remember:

✨ “Not all who wander are lost.”

Want more behind-the-scenes rally content, gear tips, and RV stories?

📺 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

🎧 Listen to the Wandering Gypsy RV Life podcast on all major platforms

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💻 Check out TechnoRV’s resources and podcast at TechnoRV.com

Penn Coachmen Rally 2024 at Pocono Raceway: Two Weeks of Speed, Safety, and Camaraderie

October 8, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Penn Coachmen Rally Friends and I parked for two weeks of fun-filled rally activities.

The Penn Coachmen Rally 2024 was an unforgettable two-week experience at the iconic Pocono Raceway, one of NASCAR’s only independently owned tracks. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, the setting provided a thrilling mix of motorsports excitement, valuable education, and community bonding.

A Heart-Racing Experience: Driving an 800hp Stock Car

The highlight for many was the chance to get behind the wheel of an 800-horsepower stock car and feel the raw power on the same track where NASCAR legends race. The Pocono Raceway’s unique “Tricky Triangle” was no match for RVers’ enthusiasm to push their limits. We received expert instruction on handling the car, from banking in the turns to the straightaways, where the adrenaline indeed kicked in. There’s something surreal about accelerating on a track where you usually only see professional drivers—an exciting experience that had everyone buzzing.

The Stock Car Racing Experience at the Tricky Triangle – Pocono Raceway

RV Tools and Fire Safety Tips from the Pros

Safety and preparedness were central themes during the rally. Gary Cipa, Steve Raye, and Eric Britz gave invaluable RV tool and fire safety presentations, informing us on best practices for staying safe on the road. Their tips, drawn from years of experience, covered everything from essential tools to keep in the rig to strategies for preventing and responding to fires. Their practical advice resonated with every attendee, ensuring we could all leave feeling more secure on our future RV adventures.

Non-Lethal Self-Defense with Byrna

One particularly intriguing demonstration was of the Byrna, a non-lethal self-defense weapon ideal for RV travelers. The Byrna shoots chemical irritant projectiles, giving RV owners peace of mind while traveling or camping in unfamiliar areas. Watching the demonstration and being able to shoot a Byrna was both eye-opening and comforting, knowing there is an effective but non-lethal protection option. For anyone spending long stretches in their RV like we do, knowing you’re prepared for any situation is reassuring.

Dining in the Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA

Stan’s Whatchamacallit Stew simmering for a rally meal

One of the best parts of the rally was the camaraderie among friends, especially during dinners. My 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA became our “Dining Hall,” where eleven of us gathered for a delightful evening meal. The final night’s highlight was Gillian Raye’s famous Chicken & Rice dish—hearty, flavorful, and the perfect comfort food after a long day of rally activities. The shared meals fostered a sense of community and brought everyone together, reminding us that the best memories often come from time spent with good friends over great food.

Two Weeks of Fun, Friendship, and Learning

From the thrills on the track to the practical lessons in safety and security, our two weeks at the Penn Coachmen Rally were packed with fun, education, and bonding. The Pocono Raceway provided the perfect backdrop for a well-rounded event that catered to both the need for excitement and the desire for deeper connections with fellow RVers.

The Benefits of FMCA Membership: More Than Just Rallies

This rally wouldn’t have been possible without the FMCA and the Penn Coachmen Chapter. FMCA membership offers so much more than just discounts and roadside assistance. It’s about joining a community of like-minded individuals who share a love for RVing. Chapter rallies like this one are an excellent way to meet new people, learn from seasoned RVers, and share tips and stories. FMCA’s international rallies are even more expansive, allowing members to connect with a global community of RV enthusiasts while enjoying the benefits of educational seminars, exhibitions, and entertainment.

If you’re not already an FMCA member, consider joining for the opportunity to be part of a supportive and active RV community. The friendships and experiences from chapter rallies, like the one we just enjoyed, are truly priceless.

The Penn Coachmen Rally 2024 at Pocono Raceway perfectly blended education, entertainment, and camaraderie. Whether it was the thrill of driving a stock car, learning vital RV safety tips, or enjoying delicious meals with great company, these two weeks will be remembered for years. Here’s to more rallies, friendships, and adventures on the open road!