Tag: RV Repairs

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?

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

Fixing Bertie Bea’s Water Leak: A Simple DIY Solution

March 30, 2025 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Hey there, fellow Wanderers! Welcome back to The Wandering Gypsy RV Life. If you’ve been following along on Instagram and Facebook, you know that a few weeks ago, we discovered a pesky water leak in Bertie Bea’s bathroom. Well, I’m happy to report—it’s fixed! Let me explain exactly what we did to stop the leak and keep Bertie Bea dry and road-ready.

The Problem: A Pesky Leak in Bertie Bea

Water leaks in an RV can be a nightmare. Not only can they cause structural damage, but they can also lead to mold and other long-term issues if not addressed quickly. When I first noticed water seeping into Bertie Bea’s bathroom, I knew I had to act fast. After some investigation, I found that the leak was coming from the slide rail area—a common trouble spot for many RV owners.

The Solution: Building a Dam

To stop the water ingress, we needed a simple yet effective fix. Here’s what we did:

Rubber dam to block the water on the slide rail.

Identified the Leak Source – We checked the slide rail area and pinpointed where water was sneaking in.
Built a Barrier—We installed a rubber dam between Bertie Bea’s exterior and interior to block future water entry.
Sealed & Tested—After installation, we ran a few tests to ensure that water no longer seeped inside. Success!

Now, Bertie Bea is dry and ready for more adventures—no more surprise puddles in the bathroom!

Lessons from the Road

RV life is full of challenges, but every problem is a learning opportunity. If you’re dealing with an RV water leak, here are a few quick tips:

✅ Act fast – The longer you wait, the worse the damage can get.
✅ Check common leak points – Slide rails, seals, and roof edges are the usual suspects.
✅ Use quality sealants – Investing in the right materials will save you time and money down the road.
✅ Test thoroughly – After a repair, always check for leaks before hitting the road again.

Life on the road isn’t always easy, but it’s always an adventure! Remember, not all who wander are lost. See you on the road!

How to Replace a Failed RV City Water Connection: A Step-by-Step Guide

February 15, 2025 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Maintaining an RV is essential to keeping it in top shape and preventing costly repairs. One common issue RV owners may encounter is a failed backflow preventer in the city water connection. This can allow water to flow back through the hose, leading to standing water in the wet bay and potential water damage.

In this guide, I’ll explain how to diagnose and replace a faulty city water connection in your RV based on my recent repair experience with my rig, Bertie Bea.

Here’s the video that shows the entire repair and what it took.

Understanding the Problem: Backflow Preventer Failure

The city water connection in an RV is designed to allow pressurized water from an external source to flow into the plumbing system while preventing backflow. A built-in backflow preventer ensures water does not reverse direction and contaminate the water supply.

If you notice standing water in your wet bay or water leaking from the city water hose, the backflow preventer may have failed. This means it’s time to replace the city water connection.

Tools & Materials Needed

Before starting the repair, gather the following tools and materials:

✅ Electric Screwdriver – To remove the existing fitting.

✅ Replacement City Water Connection – Ensure you get a model that fits your RV. I used an all-plastic version from B&B, the manufacturer of the original fitting.

✅ Butyl Tape – Helps create a watertight seal.

✅ Gloves – To keep your hands clean and dry.

✅ Towels – To clean up any residual water.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Replacing the City Water Connection

1️⃣ Remove the Existing Water Connection

• Locate the city water connection in your wet bay.

• Unscrew and disconnect the water line from the back of the fitting.

• Use an electric screwdriver to remove all screws securing the old connection.

2️⃣ Prepare the New Connection

• Check whether the replacement fitting is a single-piece or two-piece unit.

• Roll a strip of butyl tape into a thin “spaghetti” shape and place it along the outer edge of the new fitting. This will ensure a tight seal against leaks.

3️⃣ Install the New City Water Connection

• Position the new fitting in the same spot where the old one was removed.

• Secure it in place using the screws you removed earlier.

4️⃣ Reconnect the Water Line

• Attach the water hose to the back of the new city water fitting.

• Make sure all connections are tightened properly to prevent leaks.

5️⃣ Test for Leaks

• Turn on the city water supply and check for any leaks.

• If necessary, tighten the connections further or add more sealant to ensure a proper fit.

Why Learning Basic RV Repairs Matters

One of the reasons I feel confident in tackling these repairs myself is thanks to the Family RV Association’s (FRVA) “RV Basics” training program. This course, offered at most FRVA International Conventions, provides hands-on learning about RV systems and maintenance. Instructors like Gary, Steve, and Eric break down the fundamentals, empowering RV owners to handle common issues themselves.

In my five years of RV ownership, I’ve learned that every repair is a learning opportunity. If you own a motorhome, understanding basic maintenance can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.

Final Thoughts

If your RV’s city water connection starts failing, replacing it is a straightforward repair that you can handle with a few tools and some patience. Learning to perform basic RV maintenance will not only keep your rig in great condition but also enhance your confidence as an RV owner.

Happy RVing, and enjoy the journey! 🚐💨

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.