| |
Subject |
Author |
Date Posted |
Forum
|
 |
RE: Noisy Hitch
how does your rav sit with the trailer on it?
I have to use a 6inch rise drawbar to get my flagstaff 208 to sit level
The Aliner Sport trailer is level. The RAV is just about level. You notice in the pic in my previous post that I put the mount in upside down. It's good enough according to my good friend that works at an RV repair installation facility. There's no swaying issues when towing with the RAV.
|
JoeRT04
|
10/07/12 06:34am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: Winterizing Water Lines
Living in MA, I'm a true believer in the pink stuff method myself. Always have since RVing since the 1980's.
It's that peace of mind on the yearly first night of freezing temperatures that I believe in. It's only $10 tops for the pink stuff per year. Not a bad investment IMO.
I have a good friend that works in service for a local reputable RV repair business. He tells me many stories of repairing broken water systems due to supposedly "air blown" winterizing methods. If he uses the pink stuff on his RV, I will too. :B
|
JoeRT04
|
10/07/12 06:28am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: Noisy Hitch
Well, the noise problem back there is solved. Thanks to all of your suggestions.
I got a "Hitch Silencer" that tightens the hitch assembly rock solid. So, now the hitch is much quieter. There was a little bit of a clanking noise left over during my test drive, so I did another inspection and discovered that the crank handle to raise and lower the hitch was not secured tight. After more investigation work and pushing things around the trailer tongue area, I determined that the crank handle was the remaining noise. So, I use a bungee cord now to secure. it.
I took a test drive again and all is quiet. I think my DW will be quite happy now!
See below the hitch silencer I got online:
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7AM_Ld6z-7I/UHFxRv4RUuI/AAAAAAAABGQ/RhZJm6fswEQ/s640/IMG_5889.JPG height=500 width=500
|
JoeRT04
|
10/07/12 06:18am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: Photo Thread - Post Your PUP Pics Here
Here we are at Acadia NP in Maine this month. We camped at Seawall campground inside the park. Southwest Harbor nearby has the best lobster in the country.
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9m5mIhQg9QI/UGMA5GfIhTI/AAAAAAAABF4/bhLFxr1xCF8/s640/IMG_5806.JPG height=500 width=500
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--0ExZe_zZ58/UGL-sDof5FI/AAAAAAAABFg/CjWelTplxdI/s640/IMG_5808.JPG height=500 width=500
|
JoeRT04
|
09/26/12 07:14am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: Noisy Hitch
Thanks for the replies.
After reading your replies, I've tightened a few bolts in the tongue area such as the propane bottle hold down bolts, etc. The bottle was a bit loose. It's amazing to me how the dealers don't check these things before the day of pickup at the dealership, from loose water connections to loose screws and bolts inside the rig. It is possible these things might have contributed to the noise. I did order an anti rattle device made for hitches anyway just to keep my DW happy. :B
I'll let you know how it goes after I get that part.
|
JoeRT04
|
09/26/12 07:05am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
Noisy Hitch
I've taken a few trips (one, over 300 miles to Acadia NP in Maine) recently.
One thing I've noticed on these trips is that the hitch has been noisy - like a banging noise. At first, I thought the hitch ball might be loose. That isn't it. I noticed that after I unhitch the trailer, the hitch ball mount rocks a bit inside the receiver and that is causing the noise.
So, is there anyone else out there that has had this situation and how did you solve it? I looked online and there are "hitch silencers." Can anyone recommend a solution that does not cost an arm and a leg? I tried plastic door shims. Those are too thick. I'm thinking of trying some electric tape to soften the noise perhaps.
Thanks for any advice. :B
|
JoeRT04
|
09/25/12 04:54pm |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
I finally decided to trade my most loyal '99 Volvo (175,000 miles) for a 2010 (like new) Toyota RAV4 Sport with the tow prep package and V6. The Volvo was a wonderful tow vehicle but the brakes were getting quite noisy and the AC needed a major repair. Other repairs were on the horizon including the original complete exhaust system.
I decided it was time to make the move. I should be a lot more comfortable now driving through the mountains on the way to visit my daughter in Nashville, TN. :B I'm having a hitch and 7 pin connector installed at the dealer tomorrow. All will be included in the warranty. That's it now. I can't spend anymore $$$ for the next 10 years. :B
Below is a pic of our new TV:
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-G9N7S_2ZPFs/T_17blECpvI/AAAAAAAAAek/vaRuXqu8ASs/s640/IMG_5652.JPG height=400 width=400
|
JoeRT04
|
07/11/12 07:19am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
In my new Aliner, the thermostat is terrible. :E
It's hard to move the top switch to turn on the furnace. I sometimes feel I'm going to break it. I think you've got me thinking about replacing the thing. I really would like to get a digital format type of thermostat like the LuxPro mentioned earlier.
$24 from Amazon.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21fM0rz2aNL._SL500_AA300_.jpg height=300 width=300
But, the furnace is quite good. I got to try it out a few weeks ago when we had a cold snap. The Aliner warmed up in quickly.
|
JoeRT04
|
06/25/12 11:08am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: Thing about a Aliner ...
The 02 to 04 Envoy will work fine with the Aliner. LIke others here, I would consider the tow package. It adds that little peace of mind when traveling in mountainous areas.
Our '99 Volvo tows our Aliner Sport with ease. But, at 173,000 miles on the odometer, I'm looking around for the perfect replacement. I have my eyes on a Toyota RAV4 Sport with the tow package and class III hitch, with the 6 Cylinder engine, that has way more power that I would need for our Aliner Sport.
Regarding Aliner load, usually there is a sticker on the side that says "Real Weight." At least mine did. That weight rating indicates what the rig weighed at the factory after the accessories such as the AC and reefer had been added. Those items added almost 300 lbs. more load than what the Aliner website says.
|
JoeRT04
|
06/24/12 08:07pm |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
Took our Aliner out for a spin today (about 20 miles). :B It was a gorgeous day! I towed it to the canal and opened it up in the parking lot while still hitched to the car.
This was after I gave it a good washing and then applying Protect-All wax at home.
The rig towed nicely and the electric brakes seemed better this time around. It may be because the brakes are seating better after a few more miles.
I feel I have to take the Aliner out regularly to keep the routine of hitching and unhitching fresh in my mind and to keep the tires fresh.
I almost forgot to raise the tongue jack before I drove off. Luckily, I decided to take a quick walk around the thing to make sure I didn't forget anything. :R
|
JoeRT04
|
06/24/12 07:52pm |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: Awning up and fell off!
As a side note: those folks who have a problem with the cording used in the slip in part of the bag, we just use 1/4" cotton rope. Holds up well, and so far we've had no repeat failures where it's been used.
2X the cord rope idea. When we had a PUP in the 90's, our awning bag came apart too at the zipper part of the bag. My DW used the old bag as a pattern to sew a new one with a new heavy duty zipper. The fabric used was a synthetic leather from the local fabric store. In talking to her just now about it, she says it's important to use a strong cotton thread best for that fabric. Ask the store people what is best. She used our home sewing machine to do the job. The bag lasted as long as the original and was in good shape when we sold the PUP.
Our AC cover looks like it might wear off at the slip in part of the bag too. So, we may have to do the same thing with that on our Aliner. But, that is an easy job since the AC cover is so small in comparison. The fabric is a breathable nylon type so it is easier to sew with.
|
JoeRT04
|
06/14/12 04:34pm |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
bondebond,
Thank you. You reminded me that I have to adjust my Tekonsha Voyager Brake controller. When I brought my Aliner home for the first time a couple of months ago, I noticed that the Aliner brakes would not lock up manually while I'm moving the slider on the controller. When I got home, I read the manual on how to make the fine tuning adjustments but I haven't gotten around to doing the procedure. It's not difficult to do. I'm just lazy.
Like you, I can feel the brakes working and I can visually see the controller applying voltage as I slow the TV, by eyeing the little led color changing from an orange to red glow as I apply the brakes. And, I can feel the FT holding me back a bit. But, the manual controller slider is not working well enough for my satisfaction. Do you need to fine tune your unit too perhaps?
The forecast calls for a sunny day tomorrow (it has rained for a couple of days) so I'll make the adjustment tomorrow. I was looking for something for a challenge anyway. :B I've added this task to my to do list to my calendar.
Joe
|
JoeRT04
|
06/05/12 05:03pm |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: PUP Setup Time - Manual vs. Automatic
For me...
After a long day's drive in the hot summer heat, the first thing I do is open the Aliner just enough so I can sneak in to reach the reefer for my ice cold beer. I take a couple of swigs, put the bottle or can down for a minute or two, while I proceed to unhitch the TV, level the Aliner, put the wheel chocks in, lower the jacks, and then open it up. Oh, then I set the two camping chairs out front.
THEN iMMEDIATELY, I go get my beer, sit and relax for while. Who cares how long it took? :B
|
JoeRT04
|
06/04/12 12:16pm |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
Hi Jessie.
I found this brochure on your camper on the web. Is this the one? You're smart to have the PUP serviced and checked out. Especially pay attention to the propane systems and propane/carbon monoxide alarms.
If you check out all the pages on that website, you get a fine view of the exterior and interior. It seems that that company was ahead of its time. I'm new in the FT world so I could be wrong about this...
Here's another link to the history of the bethany models.
I have a feeling you're going to have a ball with this thing. And, a lot of questions from nearby campers. Vintage campers (like cars) are cool. Best of luck with your new toy. :B
|
JoeRT04
|
06/03/12 06:42am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
galexander.
You lucky dogs!
We visited the Grand Canyon summer of 2009 on our cross country trip (7 weeks, 11,000 miles) in our (was then) our Roadtrek Class B MH. It was the best thing we did. Are you going to the North or South Rim? We visited the South Rim and hiked the Bright Angel trail there. :B
Have a safe, fantastic trip!
|
JoeRT04
|
06/02/12 05:48pm |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: Kia Sorento Class I Hitch
Yes.
My guess is that unless you specify a particular class hitch, the dealer is going to add on the cheapest hitch possible within the towing capacity range of your TV and rig specs.
I would try this approach when going back to the dealership:
Explain to the salesman or service dept. that you feel "unsafe" with the class 1 hitch. Safety to your family is most important. Ask them to upgrade to the Class 2 hitch.
If they won't do what you request for free, bring your wife to express (in tears if needed) to again stress safety for the family. This sometimes works. (Men tend to listen to safety concerns of women.)
If the dealership won't upgrade, at least they should let you pay the difference between the class 1 and 2 with free labor.
The key here is "SAFETY." Don't give up. Keep after them.
|
JoeRT04
|
06/02/12 11:12am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
Today, we are experiencing the first stormy (It's pouring) rain type of day in quite a long time. It rained over an inch last night into the morning hours. And, this is our first day our Aliner has been set up in this type of weather environment.
I decided to do a search all around the interior for water leaks of any kind. I did find one small slow leak next to the door. The weather stripping there on one side where the hinges are is just a bit short leaving "daylight" that I can plainly see. I've inserted a small piece of rubber insulation there to see if that will stop the leakage. That was 3 hours ago. So far, no more leakage there.
I guess the reason I'm bringing this up is to suggest to others that purchase new or older FT's to check their rigs for leakage ASAP when you get the rigs. Early detection and repair will prevent major damage later on.
BTW, on the first day I got the Aliner, I ran a test on all systems and found a water leak under the sink. There was a loose hose clamp that allowed water to spurt (with the water pump on) onto the floor. And, to my surprise, in the storage area next to the same sink cabinet, was a rag (a dealer sweatshirt with the dealer trademark on it) left there by a worker where I bought the Aliner... as if to "hide" the water leak.
My guess is that they didn't prepare the rig for my pickup in time and the worker in question just "mopped up" the water so I wouldn't see it in the run through. There was a lot of saw dust and metal shavings in the storage areas too. I'm amazed at the lack of detail in dealer prep. Have others found that too? I'm not mentioning the dealer where I bought it. I live over 2 hours away from the dealer, I decided to take care of the minor problems myself. - and... do a better job of it. :B
|
JoeRT04
|
06/02/12 10:55am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: Australian Folding Trailer tested by US RV Magazine.
Here's a link to a YouTube video demo and pics.
A good looking unit.
I can't find the pricing... Does anyone know the pricing of the rig?
Karavan
|
JoeRT04
|
05/31/12 06:44am |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
Today paid a visit to a local "Boat Guy" shop that has a Honda Power Tool store within his store. It's quite the set up. I was quite impressed. I was talking with one of the store reps that convinced me that the Honda EU2000I is the one to buy. She, (the rep.), started up that model generator for me to check it out in action. I was surprised at how quiet it was running. By walking a few feet away, I had to listen hard to just hear it. It was quiet enough for us to have a talk while it was running - right next to us.
Oh, And, I could lift the genny with no problems. It weighs 47 lbs. I think.
Another worker who approached me there said that he can make a "strong box" case with for the genny to put on the front jack tongue of the my Aliner for low cost. He does this kind of welding work on boats for the company. He suggested that I put a 2 gallon gas can at the rear of the Aliner. He can make another box for the gas can to go on the rear hitch of the Aliner for relatively low cost. What I like about this place is that they do repairs there on the spot. I have a 5000 BTU AC in the Aliner and I was told the Honda genny will run that with no problems. So, it looks like I might go that route. I'm still going to investigate this a bit more. RoyB sent me a ton of info on the same genny and the setup he uses on his camping excursions. I am thankful to RoyB and all of you for your input. I'm still open to any other ideas anyone may have.
|
JoeRT04
|
05/30/12 03:32pm |
Folding Trailers
|
|
RE: What did you do to your PUP today?
Thank you bondebond.
In my Roadtrek that I sold recently (it had an onboard genny), I religiously exercised the genny monthly at full load as instructed by the Onan manual. It ran flawlessly with no repairs. Man! That thing was loud! I changed the oil as the manual stated. So, I have some experience when it comes to generators. But, the portable style is a new thing for me. I have a feeling this is going to be a lot of fun.
I just need to decide where the put the gas can and the genny on my Alinner (up front or back) - that kind of thing. So, my first question would be... where do you guys keep the gas can on the PUP? I don't have a pick-up truck so that is not an option. Secondly, how many gallons capacity is your gas that you take along? 5 gallons? I'm thinking of a 2 gallon can to keep the overall towing weight minimal.
I forgot that I can check the archives for this subject. Thanks the the tip.
|
JoeRT04
|
05/30/12 09:54am |
Folding Trailers
|
