NEW RVer – PLEASE HELP ME, I’M SCARED!!!

[bumpkinsnana]

HI!!!!!:eek: :confused: - Now that I have your attention - which I appreciate, my husband and I have just purchased a used 2003 Class C Minnie Winnie with a 12' ft slide. After reading and researching prior to purchasing, I thought this RV thing would be a breeze and apparently, I was mistaken. Now that we have the RV, we don't have a clue as to what some of the equipment, parts, and accessories are, or what they do. For the time being, we will be staying in RV parks with hookups (hopefully). After reading up on some essential add ons, like a surge protector for the entire RV - I am totally confused, completely overwhelmed, and do not have a clue to what we really need or don't need so our RV's engine, appliances, and systems will not explode. At this point I do not know if we use 30 amps or 50 amps. Do we choose a surge protector for use outside or inside? Which is best a shunt-mode or series-mode surge protector? Can someone please tell me what the heck is a "Joules" anyway. Hot-Ground, Hot-Neutral, and Neutral-Ground, I suppose this means something - but what? There are so many options, I do not know how many additional add ons we really need with the surge protector, is it important to have line conditioners, and auto transformer too? Once you get what you need, what do you do with it? Oh my gosh, I almost forgot the inverters, manual transfer switches, and electronic-relay switches, no clue! What do you to boost low voltage, should this become and issue? So as you can see, I am pretty ignorant when it comes to surge protectors, and don't even get me started levelers/or jacks (which we do not have) or water filtering, and water pump options.

I am hoping I can learn from your experts out there, what I really need to know is what we need to start with in order to protect our investment. We will all look back in a few months from now, and laugh, and laugh at my complete ignorance. But for right now I implore you, keep me out of hotels and put me on the road!!!

Thanks,
Bumpkinsnana

[bigdaddy1]

Well first of all you could use a surge protector that first plugs into the 30 Amp service at the campground. The 30 amp and 50 amp plugs would be different so they should not be confused with each other.
Next, take your time and you will learn, by trial and error, and by reading good camping publications such as MotorHome magazine. Also, surely you know a friend relative or co-worker that has had an similar RV.
good luck and happy trials oh excuse me happy trails..

[treemakr]

Okay, take a breath.......You don't have to know everything on the first day. You will find us Rvers to be a friendly sort, and we usually love to share. Having an rv is just like having a house. It wasn't perfect the day you moved in, you added things slowly over the months after you moved in. I always have 2 or 3 things on my wish list for the rv.

Strike up conversations with your camping neighbors, and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice. Sometimes you learn some pretty cool tips and tricks that will help you.

My husband and I had been rving for 10 years when we found ourselves in a campsite that had a severe incline. Darned if either of us could figure out what to do with the legs in order to bring it level. Finally the neighbor came over and offered help.

Enjoy!

[hunter03872]

I have never used one. have a 34ft coachman and been camping for 20yrs now on an off campgrounds and dry camping. if your not sure of something always ask. don't mean your not with it. as for low power that depends on the CG and how many sites they have.plus if they let camper's use AC's or elect heaters as far as 30-50 amp the plugs R differant you can go to a rv store to check that out

[hunter03872]

sorry I forgot the most important thing you can always come it a chat room bet there will be some there to answer any or your Q if not just waite we come on at differant times of the day but where here

[rvvagabonds]

Since your RV is a Winnebago the first thing I would suggest is to join the Winnebago-Itasca Travelers Club (WIT). Next join your local chapter; you’d be surprised how much help you’ll receive along with having a good time.

[anchors]

first of all don't panic my husband and i have been doing this about a yr now. i remember the first weekend we want out to daytona bch. could not figure out the cable tv had it all hooked up just didn't work. but, as someone said talk to ur camping neighbors.everyone is always and usually very friendly. we did the man came over at first we still could not figure it out, then he remembered a little button to covert behold we had cable and made a new friend in camp. we just luv going out. so enjoy and take in stride:) anchors

[annjacoby]

I think you should consider attending the Life on Wheels week long seminar on all aspects of RVing. I think they are lifeonwheels.com or you can Google them. They hold them several times per year in a few different places around the country. I attended in Moscow, ID last summer, and it was a great investment. Good luck

[iobt999]

I didn't see anyone tell you that a 30 amp connector has 3 prongs, and a 50 amp has 4 prongs. Thats the easiest way to tell. Don't forget to maintain your batteries, check the water level every 4-6 months. The best way to find out about your RV is to USE it!! Seriously, go camping!!! Bring food, have fun!! You'll find out about everything as time goes by. You can always come here if you have any questions. Happy Camping!

[stacyb]

YOur getting so great advice. I hope once these concerns are over you will just sit back and emjoy the wonderful world of camping

[danpence]

Be sure to read your owner's manual. If you don't have one, get one from Winnebago. If you have the chance visit their factory, it will amaze you.

[rhpeeling]

As you can see there are many folks out there willing to help you along as you learn about your motorhome and you've already received some excellent advice.
For the automobile portion of your motorhome you won't go too far wrong if you do as you would with the family car. Keep the fluid levels where they should be, change the oil regularly and keep your tires properly inflated.
For the rest of it just go camping and learn as you go. Don't get too excited about the technical stuff such as surge protectors, inverters etc. We've had motorhomes since 1991 and I still wouldn't know a surge protector from a sewing machine and it's never caused us a problem yet!
You will always be learning about your motorhome and as someone said you don't have to know it all on the first day. When you come across a piece of equipment or a feature you don't know about take the time to check your manuals and if they don't help ask a neighbour. You'll be amazed at how happy folks are to help!
Most important - just sit back, relax and enjoy - rv'ing is a great way to meet people, enjoy the sights and sleep in your own bed each night.
Best wishes on your upcoming adventures!

[stampgirl]

All of the previous advice is what I would have said...I think actually camping is the best advice...even if it is just in your backyard...would be better at a campsite though as you'd have the 30 amp (3 prong) or 50 amp (4 prong) box to hook up to. Trial and Error is how we learned...and almost everybody in a campground is willing to help you out. We have learned so much from OTHER RV'ers over time.:o

[53flyingcloud]

bumpkinsnana
Congrats on ur "new to you" RV..I am surprised that the previous owner didn't walk you thru the unit but..That's okay for now.:cool:
Question? When you purchased this unit, did it by any chance come with the "owner's manual"? If not, you might want to get in contact with the Winnebago Company and, inquire about a copy. Always great to have on hand..
I will attempt to give you a walk thru of things that you might need. (These are in no particular order of urgency..)
1.Water line pressure regulator. (30 lb brass type fixture)
2.First Aid Kit. (Stock it with additional items as your needs dictate)
3.Fire Extinguisher..
4. Check all batteries on your safety detectors, such as fire, smoke and gas detectors.
5.New sewage hose and, for your own peace of mind, get more than 10 ft.
6.Package of disposable gloves to wear when working around the sewage station.
7.Plastic plates, drinking cups, knives, spoons and forks. (Remember, you don't want to be washing dishes~it's all about having FUN.)
First thing I always tell people when first getting into this lifestyle is..If, at anytime, you hear any of your alarms going off? Please get out of the unit~! Run drills with all family members and, make sure everyone fully understands the importance of these exercises. Treat it like a evacuation from an airplane~Most RV will be totally consumed by flame in less than 5 min but..I will tell you that it's not the flames that will kill you, rather it's the toxic fumes from the materials that all RV have in them. This deadly fumes can render you unconscious and, thus kill you in less time than it takes for the unit to completely burn..(Maybe 90 sec or less..) The keyword here is..Listen and HEED your alarms..GET OUT ASAP. You can always buy another RV but, it's impossible to replace a life. The same general advice applies to the use of a Fire Extinguisher..Don't..quite simply, it's there because the law requires it. In most cases, it's neither large enough nor do you have the time to use it.
Hot water tank usage: We all want to use it for a nice "sailor shower". Simply put, it means to use no more water than needed to wet yourself..wash..then risen off. This help the 6 gallons to go a long ways and, will keep everyone in the family HAPPY...:D Now, comes the part on how to use the water heater. First, make sure that it's completely filled up with cold water` before firing it up~Otherwise, you could end up burning out the tank and, possibly wind up with a very expensive replacement repair bill for a new water heater. No fun`.
Once you have all the air out of the tank, you can be sure that it's ready to be fired up to heat the water. Should take about 30 to 45 minutes to heat a full tank.
The frig is both bottle gas and, 120 VAC electric. Two things to remember. One is it needs a level ground and, secondly..keep the heat exhaust at the top clean of bird nest or wasp nest. I'd recommend turning it on the night before travel to get a chance to cool down. Put some "plastic bottle" water in it. Baking soda to remove odor. When not in use, leave the door slightly ajar to keep it from mildewing. (baking soda)
Most stoves require a match or gas lighter stick for lighting the burners. Some stoves have the electric starter to ignite the propane gas. (In the North East, you'll want to use propane and, down South, you will use Butane for your fuel.)
This is by no means a complete list of things..It's just a start. I will be glad to pick up from here if you feel this info is of help to you.:cool:
Happy Camping..
ciao
53FC

[larryb]

You've already received good advice, the best is "don't sweat the small stuff" and start using your RV. We have been RVers for about 14 years, and we have been fulltiming for six. Yes, our motorhome is our only home. We've helped new RVers in many campgrounds and were able to solve most of their problems. We have worked at several campgrounds and helped RVers with their rigs.

The best advice, use your RV, enjoy your RV, start with weekend trips. Also, read the manuals, if you don't have them, many of them can be found on the internet by going to the manufacturer's web site.

[gussie]

We just completed our first RV trip, nearly 4000 miles. We bought our used rig from a private individual. We wanted to have a few things done to it and took it to a dealer nearby. That shop manager was terrific and explained all the switches etc. to us. Also has talked to us long distance while on the trip.

As for learning on the trip. We certainly did. We left home without a 30amp hook-up cord and no TV cable or connectors. Friendly neighbor campers helped us out until we could get somewhere to purchase. I learned a lot on these forums about packing light etc. Great place for great advice. We still feel "green" about some of it but proud of ourselves for the long and fun trip.

I can't help you with electrical stuff but here are some thoughts. Get a Flying J card. They discount fuel. They also have dump stations and some have fresh water as well. Even though we have a good water filter system, we drink bottled water to be on the safe side. Super clorinate your water tank.

Just getting out and trying it will bring the fear under control. Have fun and be safe down the road.
Gussie

[geothom]

you didn't say where you are located. as hunter said you can check out the campfire chat rooms. also you could look for someone in your area with experience to meet up with & walk you thru some of your concerns. but don't panic there is always someone at a campground who will be glad to help

[seatinkers]

Park it and learn it. When my husband and I started out fulltiming I did alot of research. We bought used..never buy new just in case one of you doesn't like it cause you can just throw that money out the window. When we got our RV we went to an RV park for a month and learned everything about our RV with the help of fellow RVers.

Important thing to buy to make sure you are getting proper voltage for your electrical stuff is to buy a Volt Meter and have it pluged in at all times. Also put surge protectors on everything you can because if the park you are staying in has an outage or you loose electric then your stuff won't get fried. Happy Trails to you both!

[oreodog]

:eek: :o
Dear Nana,
I am in deep sympathy with you. We just bought a 2000 Winnebago Journey and waiting for delivery from Texas.........When it arrives the panic shall begin BUT good news is we have an RV friend whom we called and assured us he will guide us out of crisis!
Harder to stay calm when older. Tee Hee May we both look forward to wonderful RV times. Besat of luck.
Bill & Carole in Florida

[billcolleen]

Hi: Congratulations on your RV. You have opened the door on a new and exciting lifestyle. We just aquired our 3rd MH, after renting for 3 years. We went through the same maize of learning that is befuddling you now. You will notice that while there are many who have given you specific advice. Most have advised you to just use your MH, and learn as you go. Like "on the job training" This is the best advice. Most of the items you are worried about are incidental, and you will learn at your liesure. Such as 30/50 amp svc. Almost all parks provide 30 amp svc, and your 30 amp plug will not fit a 50amp recpticle, so, there is nothing to worry about, this will be true w/most of your concerns. Sooo- - - - plan your trips, read your manuals, ask fellow RVers, and most of all == ENJOY

Good luck, Bill and Colleen White, Oregon

[oreodog]

Dear Bumpkinsnana,
It is June 20, 2007 and just read your post. I CAN SYMPATHSIZE MY DEAR.....we will take delivery of a 2001 Winnebago Journey Diesel on June 22 and then the reality is going to hit. First time to own an Rv and SO MUCH TO LEARN!

Bill Carole & Oreo

[kroving]

Hi bumpkinsana
First, welcome to RV'ing. Next, you have a small portable home and all that stuff you don't know about, is there so you can provide most of the amminities of a regular home, when you are on the road or dry camping. When you are hooked up in a campground, it is a good idea to protect yourself from bad electricity and bad water. The voltage, in many parks, can be low. Low enough to harm air conditioners, microwaves, TVs etc. This is because the older parks were not wired with heavy enough wire to provide for the requirements of modern RV's. The best way to take care of this is with an autoformer. It will limit surges and boost the voltage to safe level or it will shut down if it can't boost it enough.
The water is easy, you need a GOOD water filter. I like a particulate filter in the hose, to catch sand and rust particles before they get into the RV. Then a good carbon filter at the kitchen sink. It will take out chemicals, taste and the majority of bactiria. I like the "Ever Pure" filter.
Make sure you have water in the water heater before you turn it on. Beyond that, there is not much you can do to damage anything so jump in, get your feet wet and learn as you go.

Happy Camping
Dave