wmlee
Cobourg, Canada
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Joined: 10/03/2007
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Thanks for all the support. I really appreciate knowing I'm not the only nervous first time driver out there.
To answer your question, we purchased a Monaco Signature for our first motor home. Maybe started too big as it's over 40' long but nothing like jumping right in!
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fourfurz
Memphis
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Joined: 03/23/2008
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My first drive was between Little Rock and Memphis on I-40 at rush hour. I-40 is a very heavily traveled truck route and has loads of construction. The first 50 miles was white knuckle city but after I accepted my fate, got easier. The final test was the long stretch of Jersey barriers prior to the I-55 bridge over the Mississippi. Now, 15,000 miles later I'm a pro. The wife drives too, but for her it was less of a struggle. She "drives" an MD-11 for work and the puny 45 foot MH was nothing compared to her 200 foot long work vehicle.
I suggest you take your rig to a parking lot and lay out a parking arrangement with some cans and practice backing in and maneuvering in a safe place. It's tight parking that's most likely to get you some road rash. Being an expert at parking takes a lot of time and effort.
2007 Mountain Aire 4528
2006 CRV SE
Based in Memphis area
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klm
SIOUX FALLS, SD
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Joined: 05/26/2004
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Congrats, on your coach and your safe arrival home. A piece of advice that someone gave me, and I'll pass it along to you. HUG the center line, don't cross it, but as long as you can see it in your sideview mirror you are not over it. My BIL, trucker for 35 years gave me that advice, along with stuff near the left lane line can move, stuff on the shoulder (ie trees, signs, etc.)don't. Get into an empty parking lot, use cones/markers and practice-practice-practice. Soon you will find the journey is as good as the destination. Safe travels and enjoy. Kathy
'02 KOUNTRY STAR DP
'04 PT CRUISER INFERNO RED
LUCKY THE TRAVELIN'BLACK CAT
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justimagination
Monroe, Georgia
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Joined: 02/27/2008
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You did great my friend........and yes, we all get sweaty hands from time to time, but some won't admit it. I drive with two paper towels, one in each hand. Just habit, but it helps. Enjoy your new purchase.
David
1997 Fleetwood Southwind 37Y / Ford 460 / Power Platform / Tag Axle
Our Crew: (1)Yorkie, Twin Japanese Chins, Toy Poodle, Chihuahua, and last, but not least, their "MOM", my co-pilot and wife.
Buick Regal
Ford Taurus
Proudly served, USAF 1959-1963
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OH One
Waycross, Ga. ,
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Joined: 03/02/2004
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We recently moved up from a 32ft to a 42ft. It was familar but I have to admit I still have a hard time backing it in. The 32 was so easy, but even with the cameras , mirrors and DW on the walkie-talkie the 42 is a new experiance. However going forward is the boss,, no tail wagggg, wind blowing sudden moves and smooooth as glass ride. I would agree you started big for the first MH but you will get better with each hair raising experiance. Hang in there, you can do it if all us old folks can!
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jomasw
Paris, Tn.
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Joined: 08/08/2004
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In my opinion, you don't just "drive" a Class A RV - you have to "steer" it and it takes your full time attention. It is difficult to steer the thing sitting 4-5' above the wheels you are turning after being used to a Class C or 5th wheel. I do OK, but like the poster said keep near the center line - you are not as close as you think!
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Roger in VERMONT
Rutland, Vt. USA
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Joined: 11/14/2003
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I flew to Florida to pick up our first motorhome. A 40' diesel. It was my first try at such a big rig. I know exactly how you felt. Six years later on our second rig the harder the challange the more I like it. Good Luck!
 2001 41' Holiday Rambler Imperial
2004 Jeep Wrangler
Weekenders and Loving it!
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NHgrizzly
Litchfield, NH
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Joined: 03/02/2004
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The first time I drove our class A, I was very nervous. I stopped at a rest area on the way home and the wife told me that I was very close to the right hand line. As time went on and I adjusted the mirrors correctly, things are much easier and relaxing. Take your time, be in no rush, get used to using your mirrors to watch the lines. This forum is a great place for information.
Welcome to the wonderful world of RVing.
Steve
96 Damon Challenger
04 Chevy Avalanche
Jeep Wrangler
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GRANTLYN
BUCKS COUNTY PA.
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Joined: 04/10/2005
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Check out on the internet on how to drive your motorhome like a pro. There is alot of info. Do not give up, it will all come to you in time.
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seatboard
South Carolina
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Joined: 08/10/2007
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joppa wrote:I think the inaugural drive of a big RV is something that doesn't get as much air time here as it deserves. Our first trip from Tampa to Boston had the same affect on us. Damn some people can do it without thinking twice but I'm one who had to struggle. A year later and two trips to the body shop and I'm starting to feel more confident. Mmmm guess it's time I became a real RV'er and started towing the Cherokee.
You mean you'r gonna tow an Indian behing the MH? You better be sure he ain't on the war path.
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