Tag: RV Road Ready

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

Pre-Trip Checklist – Lessons Learned from the Road

April 5, 2025 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The Importance of a Pre-Trip Checklist: Lessons Learned on the Road

When you live on the road, your RV is more than just a vehicle—it’s your home. A place of comfort, safety, and independence. With that in mind, running through a thorough pre-trip checklist isn’t just about maintenance; it’s about preserving your investment and protecting everyone around you.

I learned this lesson the hard way. Early in my travels with Bessie, my beloved motorhome, I made a mistake I won’t forget. I left the awning out when departing an RV park in Texas and knocked down the park’s gate. That incident was not only embarrassing, but it also cost me time, money, and a lot of frustration. Since that day, I’ve sworn never to skip a step in my checklist. Every item, no matter how small it might seem, plays a crucial role in keeping you safe and your RV in tip-top shape.

A Step-by-Step Pre-Trip Routine

Over the years, I’ve developed a detailed routine that covers everything from disconnecting utilities to securing the hydraulic slides on my RV. Here’s a breakdown of my process, which I recommend incorporating into your own travel preparations:

The Night Before Departure

Stow the Satellite Antenna:
Using a satellite system, ensure the antenna is securely stowed to prevent damage during transit.
Check the Fresh Water Supply:
Aim to have at least three-quarters of your water tank filled with fresh water. This way, you’ll be prepared if you encounter an unexpected delay or limited water access.
Propane Levels:
Keep your propane tank at least three-quarters full. It’s essential for cooking, heating, and powering certain appliances.

The Morning of Departure

Disconnect and Stow Utilities:
- Power Cords: Unplug and store them properly.
- Water Hoses: Detach and pack them along with the pressure regulator.
- Sewer Hoses: Remove and secure them to prevent any mess or damage on the road.
Secure the Slides and Leveling Systems:
- If your RV has hydraulic slides, ensure they are fully retracted and locked before moving.
- Confirm that your leveling jacks or blocks are removed and stored properly.
Conduct an Exterior Walkaround:
- Make sure all outdoor furniture, chairs, and accessories are put away.
- Remove any windshield and side window covers.
- Double-check that all bay doors and compartments are securely latched.
Electrical and Safety Checks:
- Turn off the breaker at the power pedestal to prevent power surges.
- Test exterior lights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure proper function.
- Perform a final walk-around to spot any loose or unsecured items.

Hooking Up Your Tow Car

If you’re towing a vehicle, it’s important to follow a systematic approach:

Align and Attach:
- Position the tow car correctly and attach the tow arms securely.
Secure Safety Cables:
- Fasten the safety cables between the RV and the tow car as a backup connection.
Connect the Umbilical Cable:
- This powers the toad’s lights, ensuring they work in sync with the RV.
Attach the Breakaway Cable:
- This safety feature activates the toad’s brakes if it disconnects unexpectedly.
Final Testing:
- Shift the tow car into neutral and gently pull forward to confirm proper connection.
- Check that all lights and signals are functioning correctly.

Learning from the Awning Incident

One day, while departing an RV park in Texas, I made a costly mistake. In my haste, I forgot to retract the awning, and as I pulled out, it struck the park’s entrance gate, knocking it down. This mishap was not just embarrassing but also avoidable. Since then, I’ve made it a point to double-check every detail before departure.

The lesson? Even seasoned RVers can overlook small but significant steps. Taking a few extra minutes to review a checklist can save you from expensive repairs and unnecessary headaches.

Final Thoughts on Preparedness

Every journey on the open road begins with preparation. Whether you’re planning a short weekend escape or embarking on a cross-country expedition, thoroughly preparing your RV is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip. Your pre-trip checklist is not just a list of tasks; it’s a safeguard that ensures every vehicle detail is in order before you set off on your adventure.

A well-maintained routine helps prevent avoidable mishaps, like the awning incident I experienced, and ensures your journey is as smooth as possible. The open road is full of opportunities for adventure, and with proper preparation, you can focus on the experience rather than worrying about what might go wrong.

I encourage all my fellow RV enthusiasts to review their own checklists before each departure. Over time, these steps will become second nature, and you can travel confidently, knowing you’re prepared for whatever the road throws your way.

As you embark on your next adventure, remember that extra preparation can make all the difference. After all, not all who wander are lost.

The Ultimate Guide to TPMS for RVers: Why I Trust TST for Bertie Bea and Rosie

March 29, 2025 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

When you’re rolling down the highway in a 24,000-pound motorhome with your tow car trailing behind, there’s one thing you don’t want to leave to chance: your tires. A blowout at 60 mph can be catastrophic, not just for your vehicle but for your safety and everyone on the road. That’s why I never hit the road in Bertie Bea, my 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA, without a reliable Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) watching over all ten of my tires, including those on Rosie, my tow car.

Why a TPMS is Essential for RVers

Tires are the foundation of your RV journey. Properly inflated tires help with fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and, most importantly, safety. An underinflated tire builds up excess heat, which can lead to a blowout. An overinflated tire, on the other hand, can wear out unevenly and reduce traction. A TPMS continuously monitors each tire’s pressure and temperature, alerting you to any issues before they become dangerous.

NHTSA Guidelines for RV Tire Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that RV owners regularly check their tire pressure using a reliable gauge and always inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended cold tire pressure, which you can find on the yellow DOT sticker inside your RV’s driver-side door. However, since tire pressures fluctuate due to temperature changes, a TPMS is the best way to ensure real-time monitoring while you drive.

Getting the Right Tire Pressure for Bertie Bea

Every motorhome is different, so weighing your RV is crucial. I had Bertie Bea weighed at an FRVA International Convention in Gillette, Wyoming which helped me determine the ideal cold tire pressure for my six RV tires—no less than 95 PSI. Before every trip, I turn on my TPMS and let it calibrate, ensuring every tire is at its proper pressure before we roll out.

Where to Weigh Your RV

Accurately weighing your RV ensures you’re inflating your tires to the correct pressure based on your actual load. Some great options for weighing your rig include:

Escapees SmartWeigh – Available at select RV parks and rallies.
FRVA International Conventions – Offers four-corner weighing for a precise balance.
CAT Scales – These are found at truck stops nationwide, though they only provide axle weights.

Why I Chose TST TPMS for Bertie Bea and Rosie

After researching multiple brands, I went with the TST Truck TPMS system, which monitors all ten tires between Bertie Bea and Rosie. Here’s why TST stands out:

✅ Real-Time Monitoring – Alerts me to slow leaks, high temperatures, and sudden pressure drops.

✅ User-Friendly Display – Easy-to-read screen that shows pressure and temperature for each tire.

✅ Long Battery Life – Sensors last up to five years before needing a replacement.

✅ Reliable Signal Range – Works seamlessly between my motorhome and tow car.

MIchelin Tire with tire hole markings — **Monitoring your tires is CRITICAL!** I had been monitoring Rosie’s right rear tire for a 1/2 PSI per week leak, which turned into a five-PSI leak in one week. I ended up having to replace the tire due to three holes in it. Being aware of my tire pressures helped me prevent a catastrophic blowout that could have injured me or others.

Other Top TPMS Brands for RVs

While I swear by TST, there are other great TPMS options for RVers:

TireMinder TPMS – A popular choice for its Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone integration.
EEZ RV Products TPMS – Offers a wide range of sensors and an easy-to-use display.
TireTraker TPMS – Known for its compact monitor and long-lasting sensors.

Monitoring Tire Pressure in Changing Weather

Tire pressure naturally fluctuates with temperature changes. A tire filled to 95 PSI at 35°F may reach 105 PSI at 70°F. That’s why never letting air out of your tires when heated is crucial. Always set pressures based on cold tire readings before you start driving for the day.

My Pre-Trip Routine for Tire Safety

Before every journey, I follow a simple routine to make sure Bertie Bea and Rosie are road-ready:

Turn on my TST TPMS and allow it to calibrate.
Inspect all tires for any visible damage, bulges, or cracks.
Check tread depth and feel for uneven wear by running my hand across the inside and outside dual tires.
Use an air compressor to top off tires that fall below the recommended PSI.
Confirm that my tow setup, including safety cables and the braking system, is secure.

Stay Safe & Keep Rolling

A TPMS isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for anyone serious about safe RV travel. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or embarking on a cross-country road trip, make tire pressure safety a priority.

And remember, not all who wander are lost. Safe travels!