Tag: RV Service

RV Maintenance: The Key to Wandering More and Worrying Less

July 26, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Out here on the road, in the vast open stretches between the places we dream of and the ones we’ve yet to discover, there’s one thing that keeps the dream alive—RV maintenance.

I know, I know. It’s not the most glamorous part of RV life. It’s not fly fishing the North Platte River. It’s not pulling into a rodeo arena under a big western sky. But it’s the foundation of it all. It’s what makes sure Bertie Bea (my 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA) and Rosie (my ever-reliable tow car) keep rolling strong, day after day, mile after mile.

Let me take you behind the scenes of life on the road and share some lessons I’ve learned—not from a manual, but from experience.

A Windshield, a Thunderstorm, and a Wake-Up Call

Earlier this summer, after logging a 7,500-mile loop through Alabama, Texas, Colorado, Wyoming, North Dakota, Montana, and back, Bertie Bea gave me a little reminder of what neglecting maintenance can cost. A bit of water was creeping in around the windshield seal. At first, it didn’t seem like much. But then came a good old-fashioned Wyoming thunderstorm—and suddenly, I had a real mess on my hands.

Bertie Bea is in the bay at 1st Class Glass in Red Bay, Alabama, getting the windshield resealed.

The fix? A trip to Red Bay, Alabama—Tiffin HQ—where 1st Class Glass resealed the windshield and even added a slick Tiffin logo while they were at it. The lesson? Small issues can quickly escalate into significant problems. And the cost of prevention is far less than the price of repair.

The Big Five (Okay, Six) RV Maintenance Must-Dos

If you’re traveling full-time or even just seasonally, these are the systems you’ve got to keep a close eye on:

1. Roof Reseal and Inspection

Post-Roof Reseal Inspection by Precision RV via drone. Notice the sealant in all the proper locations.

Your roof is your first line of defense. UV rays, weather, and tree branches don’t care how far you’ve come. I recently had Bertie Bea’s roof stripped and resealed by the folks at Precision RV in Golden, Mississippi, down to the fiberglass and resealed with factory-grade CSL self-leveling caulk. I check mine every 12–18 months. Some say every 10 years, but I’d rather be safe than soaked.

2. Air Conditioner Health

Dirty air conditioner filter from Bertie Bea. Make sure you replace them or clean them monthly.

There’s nothing quite like rolling into a sweltering campground in July only to find your AC blowing hot air. Clean those filters monthly. I replace mine with factory-grade filters and have installed a Micro-Air EasyStart to help the unit handle low-voltage campground power. It’s a game-changer—especially at rallies where the juice is often just enough.

3. Windows and Windshields

Vibrations and temperature swings can dry out and crack your seals. After my own windshield leak episode, I do a visual check monthly. Keep a caulk gun with clear sealant in your toolkit. It’s a five-minute fix that can save you a soaked dashboard.

4. Propane System Safety

A Gas Stop was installed between the onboard propane tank and the regulator to catch any propane leaks.

This one’s serious. I do an annual propane leak test at the Bob Tiffin Service Center. I also installed a GasStop shutoff device. If there’s a leak, it cuts off gas to the rest of the coach—simple, effective, and one more layer of safety. If your stove’s flickering or your furnace is struggling, inspect it before the issue becomes more severe.

5. Tires & Suspension

Bertie Bea got six new shoes this year—Toyo M156 14-ply 265/75R22.5 tires. They were five years old and looked fine, but looks can be deceiving. RV tires age out long before they wear out.

New tires going on Bertie Bea at the 29th Annual Chas. B Davis Memorial PRCA Rodeo in Ringgold, Georgia.

I monitor them with the TST 507 Tire Pressure Monitoring System from TechnoRV. This device provides me with real-time data on pressure and temperature, and it has saved me more than once when towing Rosie through desert heat or mountain passes.

TST507 on Bertie Bea’s dash shows exactly what the tire pressure and tire temperature are on the left-front tire.

And don’t forget your suspension. Listen for squeaks and rattles. Trust your gut—if it feels off, it probably is.

6. Slides and Slide Motors

Bad Slide motor from the Driver’s Side Schwintek Slide. Replaced by the team at Bob Tiffin Service Center in Red Bay, Alabama.

This one bit me recently. My rear vanity slide, a Schwintek system, started getting out of sync—harder to open, harder to close, more hassle than it was worth. Eventually, the motor gave up completely. Fortunately, the techs at the Bob Tiffin Service Center swapped it out, and now she glides like butter.

Lesson? Check your slides quarterly. Watch for hesitation or drift. Fix it early, and you won’t be stuck manually cranking it in when you’re 200 miles from the nearest RV tech.

My RV Maintenance Rhythm

Here’s how I keep things running smoothly:

🗓 Monthly

  • Replace AC filters
  • Check tire pressure
  • Inspect seals, hoses, and undercarriage
  • Run the generator under load for 2 hours

🗓 Quarterly

  • Check slide toppers
  • Inspect slide systems
  • Visual battery inspection (AGM in Bertie Bea)

🗓 Annually

  • Full roof inspection and reseal if needed
  • Propane leak test
  • Generator oil and filter change
  • Chassis inspection and oil change

I track it all in a simple spreadsheet, but there are also apps that make this easy. What matters most is consistency.

Bonus Road Wisdom (From One Traveler to Another)

  • Carry spares: fuses, bulbs, water filters, screws, gaskets… even a spare water pump
  • Do a walkaround before every travel day—five minutes now can save five hours later
  • Use a flashlight during inspections—shadows show cracks better
  • Make a pre-departure checklist and use it. Yes, even seasoned RVers forget things

Final Thoughts

RV maintenance might not be glamorous, but it’s the secret sauce behind every smooth trip, every spontaneous detour, and every starry night parked beside a river full of trout.

It’s what lets us wander with confidence—knowing our rig is ready for whatever’s around the next bend.

So take care of your roof. Listen to your tires. Hug your air conditioner if it’s blowing cold air on a 91-degree day. Because when you take care of your rig, it’ll take care of you—every mile, every mountain, every memory.

📣 Stay Connected

If you enjoyed this post, be sure to:

  • 🎧 Subscribe to the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast on your favorite podcasting app
  • 📺 Follow our adventures on YouTube
  • 📸 Join us on Instagram
  • 💬 Let us know your favorite maintenance tip in the comments!

And if you’re looking for the gadgets and gear I trust to keep Bertie Bea and Rosie rolling, check out TechnoRV.

Until next time—keep your campfire warm, your coffee strong, and always remember… not all who wander are lost.

📍 See you down the road

Summer RV Tour 2025: A Retirement Adventure

July 5, 2025 / / 0 Comments

57 Days. 4,700 Miles. Countless Memories.

The Summer RV Tour 2025 wasn’t just a trip—it was the first chapter of retirement, a rolling adventure across the American West with Bertie Bea, my Tiffin Allegro Open Road, and Rosie in tow. From the high plains of Colorado to the historic falls of Montana, every stop along the way carried its own flavor, history, and cast of characters.

Whether you’re a seasoned full-timer or dreaming of your first RV trip, I hope this post inspires you to hit the road, chase some sunsets, and listen to the stories each town and trail has to offer.

? Launching Into Retirement

In May 2025, I shut down the work laptop for good. After years in the office, the open road was calling—and I answered. Retirement meant more than extra free time; it meant finally being able to live fully on the road with no deadline but the horizon.

? Kit Carson, CO – Where the Wind Still Whispers

My first stop was Kit Carson, Colorado, a high plains town named for the legendary frontiersman and scout. The wind out there doesn’t mess around—one night brought 40mph sustained winds with gusts up to 70mph. I had to pull in Bertie Bea’s slides just to keep the toppers from becoming airborne.

It was wild. It was raw. And it was a beautiful reminder of why the frontier spirit is still alive and well out there.

? Historical Side Note: Kit Carson helped guide the Frémont expeditions and played a significant role in westward expansion. His legacy is storied—and complicated—but the town bearing his name still holds echoes of that old west grit.

? North Sterling State Park, CO – Friendship and Fresh Air

Next up: North Sterling State Park. Nestled around North Sterling Lake, it’s the perfect place for reconnecting—with old friends and new. The campground was alive with weekend laughter, shared meals, and lakeside chats that stretched well past sunset.

For me, this stop was a reaffirmation that RV life isn’t just about seeing the country—it’s about building community wherever your tires touch the ground.

?️ Laramie, WY – From Outlaws to On-Air

In Laramie, I found a quiet place to catch up on Wandering Gypsy RV Life projects and begin laying the groundwork for a brand-new podcast: On the Road with TechnoRV.

I also visited the Wyoming Territorial Prison, where the infamous Butch Cassidy was once incarcerated. Walking those cold stone halls was like stepping into another time.

? Historical Highlight: Laramie was once known as “Hell on Wheels” thanks to its wild railroad boom. Today, it’s a balance of college town charm and old-west heritage.

? Alcova, WY – A Dam Fine Birthday Week

I rang in my birthday fishing the North Platte River in Alcova with my friends Brian Hilbert and Rowdy. The local slogan, “It’s a dam site,” was spot-on.

We floated, fished, and flung enough flies to make any trout nervous—and managed to land some beautiful rainbows. There may have been a few epic fishing fails too… but I’ll let my YouTube video tell that story.

? Fishing Fan? Watch the video of my birthday week fly fishing adventure (and bloopers!) on YouTube »

?️ Medora, ND – National Parks and Rodeo Legends

Medora is a treasure on the edge of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Rosie and I drove the scenic loop, where bison roam and badlands blaze in the sunset.

I also stopped by the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, where I was moved by an exhibit featuring Wayne Herman, PRCA World Champion Bareback Rider, and one of my childhood rodeo heroes. His grit and resilience made a huge impact on me growing up—and still does.

? Miles City, MT – Museums and Military History

In Miles City, I toured the Range Rider Museum, located on the site of Fort Keogh—named after Capt. Myles Keogh, who died with Custer at the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

The museum is packed with frontier history: rifles, saddles, wagons, and cowboy artifacts from every era. It’s one of the most authentic looks at the American West you’ll find.

? Great Falls, MT – Tracing the Lewis & Clark Trail

In Billings, I met up with Doug Simcox from the Beyond the Chutes podcast, and we made a road trip to Great Falls to explore the very ground where Lewis and Clark once stood.

The expedition had to portage five massive waterfalls in this area—a grueling task that nearly broke them. Seeing those falls firsthand gave me a whole new appreciation for their journey.

?️ Bonus: Doug and I recorded some great podcast content during our time together—stay tuned!

? Rock Springs, WY – Tiffin Rallies and River Days

The Tiffin Allegro Club “Riding the Range” Rally at the Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs was 10 days of education, upgrades, and good old-fashioned fun.

I teamed up with Michael Kilbourne and the TechnoRV crew to record seminars and podcast episodes and even took a day off to fish the Green River with guide Austin Fox of The Solitary Angler—one of the best guides I’ve ever had.

It was also a pleasure to meet Bob Tiffin, the founder of Tiffin Motorhomes, and Brett Davis, owner of National Indoor RV Centers and 2025 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Safe to say the RV world is in good hands.

? The Road Home – 1,700 Miles and a Full Heart

After the rally, I drove 1,700 miles over four days and pulled into Kick Back Ranch & Event Center—my home base in Alabama—on June 26.

Fifty-seven days. Dozens of stops. More memories than I can count. And I’d do it all over again tomorrow.

? Follow the Journey

If you enjoyed this recap, be sure to:

? Subscribe to the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast

? Watch the fly fishing fails and road adventures on YouTube »

? Follow me on Facebook and Instagram

Whether you’re full-timing or weekend wandering, remember:

“Not all who wander are lost.”
— J.R.R. Tolkien

Until next time, keep your coffee hot, your hitch tight, and your spirit wide open.

See you on the road,

– Stan

Rally Repairs, Road Wisdom & Windy Wyoming Days

June 28, 2025 / / 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.

Before the new shades.
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

? Follow along on Instagram and Facebook

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

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

February 15, 2025 / / 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! ??

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

October 10, 2024 / / 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 / / 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.

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

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:

  1. 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.
  2. Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes for the screws. Apply a small amount of Loctite to prevent them from loosening during travel.
  3. Cover Unused Holes: If you encounter holes that lead to nowhere, seal them with Alien Tape.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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 / / 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! ?✨

Bertha Gets Some Furniture Updates and Upgrades

December 15, 2021 / / 2 Comments
New Theater Seating being Installed in Bertha
Bertha’s Sofa with Sofa Cover

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.

Dinette Cushion – Before Rejuvenation

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.

Dinette Cushions – After Rejuvenation

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.

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