I think you nailed it when you said you need to try and be more proactive, I think that is the solution the frustration.
Start of the year check everything and make sure it's working WELL before you want to leave. If you have problems you can then try to fix yourself by doing some research (ask on here is a good start) and maybe buy some books on the subject.
Pick up the Trailer Life Repair and Maintenance Manual and give it a quick read. It is a very good and easy to read and follow. Also.. The trick to being able to "Fix anything" starts with not being afraid to tinker, observe and troubleshoot. When things AREN'T broken poke around and have a look. Try and figure out how the hot water heater works, the flow, the valves and how the water goes from cold city inlet to hot tap on sink. Again, I highly recommend picking up the book.
In regards to the chassis repairs (such as brake lights/engine) that is automotive and a whole other world. If you can fix a car you can fix that, if you want to learn more about that I'm sure there are courses you can take on basic vehicle maintenance which will cover most you can fix yourself.
As a side note:
I always say to others that troubleshooting is a general skill that doesn't apply to one area. If you are a logical thinker and resourceful you are likely an effective trouble-shooter and that skill can be applied to anything life may throw your way. I'm sure if you stopped, observed, researched and asked questions you could fix anything too. Just believe in yourself, most often it's not rocket surgery.
Thanks for all of the advice. I always know that folks on this forum come through and help. Right now the rig is at the local RV repair place...so hopefully will be on my way to Missouri in a couple of days. Meanwhile, I'll keep reading and learning here!!
Mary Jane
Dog-daughter Shadow
2008 BT Cruiser RIP Dennis 1948 - 2009 White dog Matty RIP 2012
Mary Jane...just think of all of us here on the Forum as your RVing support group...there ain't nutten we can't help you with, or give advise how to fix or repair it.
And if you need encouragement...we've got buckets of stuff that comes close to resembling that too!
Seriousily...that's why we're here!
My posts shouldn't be taken for factual data. They are purely fictional, for entertainment purposes and should not be constituted as actually related to scientific, technical, engineering, legal, spiritual or practical advice. Amen.
Mary Jane, I understand and I have been there myself. BUT, let me tell you, if you have 1) a cell phone, 2)Roadside Assistance like Good Sam or USAA, and and a good RV mechanic your good to go (not necessarily a dealer either. Before I go out alone, and I've done it three times, I have everything checked out, once on the road, if you do break down, you have help right at your finger tips.
What I found was I took it out to a nearby State Park my first time out, close enough to feel comfortable Second time I drove from Wash to Southern Calif, no issues, and last year I went cross country alone.
Also, take a friend if you like and have a place for them to sleep or a kid and go to the beach
Keep your daily milage down to what is comfortable to you. I did about a tankful a day. I made reservations for the next stay at lunch time or about 2 hours out and if I wanted turn around I always had that option.
If you still feel uncomforable, sell the darn thing. Happy travels
One of the things I like about a Class C is that it's just a Ford or Chevy van. ANYBODY can fix them. My local car service guy does all my RV maintenance like oil changes, etc. So find a mechanic you trust - then ask them if they'll work on your "C". That way something easy like a taillight issue, won't take several days and a few long drives.....
And the rest of the stuff (the house part) is pretty common to tens of thousands of members here :-)
I'm about your age, and do most of the "stuff" on our Class C (winterizing/tank dumping/etc). I tease my Hubby that he just comes along for the ride...LOL!!
I also was an RV'er who became widowed, but was determined to keep camping and to use my rig. We already had a Class C, and I had learned to do a lot of stuff myself, but being on your own is a bit different. (Put in a new overflow valve on the waterheater almost immediately by myself.) My other suggestion is to become part of a camping group. I belong to a Good Sam Chapter, and they were wonderful, both for functional assistance, and also for a safe, friendly group of like-minded folks so I could camp and be involved with activities. You go for it girl! Plus I have some years on you!
I've learned quite a bit on my own, through reading the rv.net forums, and from other RVers. We all learn from each other.
I am a member of RVingWomen and as well as their regional chapter here in southern CA. There are numerous other RVing groups that may suit your specific needs and interests. WOW (Women on Wheels), Escapees, Loners on Wheels, etc.
As long as you have roadside service, a cell phone, and the means by which to pay for repairs, I really don't know what is stopping you. As the Nike ad commands: JUST DO IT!
See you down the road!
* This post was
edited 06/07/12 02:26pm by Escargot *
Things like the drive train and the automotive stuff - what do you do when your car has a problem. Think of your C as a car on steroids. Granted there are some systems that aren't on a car, but the approach is the same.
And another women's group:
http://www.womenrv.com/forum/
Very friendly group of ladies.
Maggie
Sportsmen Classic 16BH
2002 F150 Supercrew 4.6 L V8
This reminds me of one of the ladies in our school bus garage. They had a new 5th.wheel (unused at the time) when her husband died suddenly. She decided she didn't want to drive a truck and haul a trailer so she sold it and bought a new Class A. She goes every time school lets out. She is 81. I agree withthe powder puff classes for basic knowledge. Doyou have any friends who RV? Most RVers are always willing to help a rookie.
2003 Newmar Mountain Aire, Workhorse W22, 2008 Saturn Vue, Falcon 5250, & US Gear Unified Tow Brake
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