Post by: huntandjeep on June 11, 2016, 08:30:40 AM
Post by: Special T on June 11, 2016, 08:34:24 AM
Post by: vandeman17 on June 11, 2016, 08:44:47 AM
Post by: brush hunter on June 11, 2016, 08:46:07 AM
If your having your wife help you'll need a bottle of whiskey too! I know I do.
Post by: Special T on June 11, 2016, 09:03:41 AM
Some 2x6's for the jacks and tongue extras for under the tires to level from side to side, and some of those stick on levels.
If your having your wife help you'll need a bottle of whiskey too! I know I do.
If you have not done so already you need to teach you wife, kids etc backup sign language. I have been the spotter for many people and never discussed what signs mean and everyone has understood the directions. Also instructing Said Helpers where to/not to stand and eye/mirror contact. This will be time well spent. :twocents:
Post by: Antlershed on June 11, 2016, 09:57:58 AM
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00480BWCI?pc_redir=T1
BAL Wheel Chocks
http://norcoind.com/bal/products/consumer/chocks/chocks.shtml
Post by: fastdam on June 11, 2016, 10:21:40 AM
Post by: Igor on June 11, 2016, 10:22:50 AM
http://www.curtmfg.com/part/17052
Post by: KFhunter on June 11, 2016, 10:26:40 AM
I have the big heavy camp chef setup and my buddy we RV with always whips out the coleman roadtrip and my camp chef sits in the back of the truck.
I like to keep all the cooking outside of the trailer, less grease and crud buildup in the camper interior.
folding table, usually sits in the truck bed because it's wide and bulky, but could also slide it in the camper but I like to get in the camper easily so I try to keep hallways clear when travelling.
generator setup, almost mandatory with newer trailers, the battery will be dead in a 1.3 days or 5 hours with kids :chuckle:
Post by: KFhunter on June 11, 2016, 10:30:19 AM
Not sure what your hitch set-up is, but you really should have a Weight Distribution Hitch like this one:
http://www.curtmfg.com/part/17052
I pull a heavier trailer than the jayhawk and don't use it, tows extremely well without it. Ram 2500 CTD
It depends on the OP's pull vehicle and how well it's setup trailer/truck. A weight distribution hitch could be money not well spent. I consider that an up-sell item, handy for some unnoticeable for others.
Post by: blindluck on June 11, 2016, 10:42:31 AM
Post by: TVHunts on June 11, 2016, 11:08:31 AM
Tongue jack if it didn't come with it
Post by: RadSav on June 11, 2016, 11:36:38 AM
Two Honda 2000 or one Honda 3500 generator. And a LONG HD extension cord. A fold-up dog house is nice to keep your generator out of the weather.
Those wicker or plastic Dixie Plate holders. No one wants to scrub dishes while camping. 3X more Solo Red cups than you think you are going to need.
Weber portable grill. Forget about the cheap Wal-Mart specials. Get one good Weber and forget about needing to replace it every year.
Good, high quality non-stick frywear. Again, no one wants to scrub dishes while camping. Wipe with paper towel and your done!
Extra bulbs for porch light. Maybe two!
Battery powered vent fan for bathroom. Nothing worse than someone with stomach issues keeping the whole family out in the rain.
About 20 extra lighters. Even at that you'll probably never be able to find one when you need it.
Forget the $9.99 back breaker Wal-Mart special camp chairs. Buy good quality captains chairs or the superior Browning Camp Chair. You'll be happy you did and you'll feel better when you get back to work.
Fire Extinguishers!!! Costco sells them in bundles. Should have at least three IMO.
Small air compressor capable of running on generator power. Needs to be able to bring tires to 80 psi.
A nice serious shovel that has a permanent home in the trailer!!
Aluminum foil if you plan to use the oven. Again, no one wants to scrub dishes while camping.
Some sort of container for putting stinky trash bags on the ride home. Just throwing garbage bags in the back of the truck doesn't work. They will blow out and you'll spend a day picking up trash along the road. And you don't want to put them in the trailer for the ride home...nasty!!
Post by: Quackwhacker on June 11, 2016, 11:52:04 AM
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Post by: muzbuster on June 11, 2016, 12:04:13 PM
Post by: CAMPMEAT on June 11, 2016, 12:05:09 PM
Post by: Fl0und3rz on June 11, 2016, 01:03:43 PM
Coleman roadtrip grill BBQ with adapter hose to fit your RV. Don't forget the full size griddle and a couple add on's for that grill.
I have the big heavy camp chef setup and my buddy we RV with always whips out the coleman roadtrip and my camp chef sits in the back of the truck.
I like to keep all the cooking outside of the trailer, less grease and crud buildup in the camper interior.
I have a Coleman Road Trip I am looking to make someone a deal on. With grill, griddle, and stove inserts, and the Road Trip wheelie roller case. If OP is not interested, I'll post it up in the classifieds.
Post by: huntandjeep on June 11, 2016, 01:45:57 PM
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
Post by: Russ McDonald on June 11, 2016, 02:18:20 PM
Post by: RadSav on June 11, 2016, 02:31:43 PM
Thinking about a 3500w Honda or Briggs jenny for the A/C / microwave ( doubt we will use the microwave).
I think you will be surprised after a few days of hunting hard, how often you use the microwave. Cooking good complete meals usually lasts only a few days before I'm too dang tired to think of cooking every night. Though both myself and the wife hit the woods rather hard. So maybe you'd be different. I also stock the freezer with those Jimmy Deal breakfast meals and sandwiches - for those days you just can't get out of bed early. :rolleyes: 3 minutes in the micro zap and you're good to go.
Post by: Special T on June 11, 2016, 02:34:42 PM
Maybe a portable solar panel to keep the batteries charged?
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
You wont even know that thing is back there!
I would say that one of those inexpensive harbor freight solar pannel would help tend the batteries
Post by: huntandjeep on June 11, 2016, 07:58:59 PM
Oh yeah get a telescoping ladder to clean off the roof or you slide out if you have one.The trailer already has a ladder mounted on the rear.
Going to have an awning installed over the slide.
Post by: Wacenturion on June 11, 2016, 08:31:32 PM
Alot of good info guys. Trailer already has electric tongue/ stabilizer jacks. Led lighting throughout. Its equipped with an outdoor kitchen ( although we will probably use our camp chef 3 burner stove more). I've already thought about the fire extinguishers, carpet , leveling blocks and chocks. Thinking about a 3500w Honda or Briggs jenny for the A/C / microwave ( doubt we will use the microwave) . Maybe a portable solar panel to keep the batteries charged?
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
Buy this one. Last year some of us here on the forum bought these at $299.99. Right now he has them at $324.99. A friend bought one last week. No tax, free shipping and shipping is pretty fast....couple days to your door. Dual fuel....gas or propane. Used mine last week over in SE Washington when I was staying in my trailer on my property having gravel layed. Was mid 90's both days. Ran the air conditioner non stop most of the day. Pretty darn quiet as well, electic start with key......you will not be disappointed, trust me. :tup:
FYI....this generator is $599.99 on Amazon. Surge is 4850....runs at 3850
http://www.ebay.com/itm/DuroMax-XP4850EH-Hybrid-Portable-Dual-Fuel-Propane-Gas-Camping-RV-Generator-/171503114601?hash=item27ee61d969:g:J9MAAOSwqu9VSPfv
Post by: Wacenturion on June 11, 2016, 08:35:57 PM
Post by: Special T on June 11, 2016, 08:44:20 PM
The load distribution hitch keeps everything going down the road straight and safe irregardless of whatever level of power the tow vehicle has. It's a safety thing as well. No side to side swaying. :tup:
While i agree they are great they really shine when the trailer weight is a lot more than the tow vehicle. If you dont have the load distribution bars just accelerate it ALWAYS takes the wobble out of the trailer. I know its kind of counter intuitive but it works.
Post by: Mudman on June 11, 2016, 08:45:50 PM
Post by: olsy on June 11, 2016, 08:48:59 PM
Extra fuses.
:yeah: I have had my Slideout fuse blow a couple times.
Post by: Rick on June 11, 2016, 09:28:02 PM
Not to mention a lot of factory hitches aren't rated to carry the tongue weight of a decent sized trailer without the use of W/D.
Post by: Encore 280 on June 11, 2016, 09:32:55 PM
Post by: huntandjeep on June 12, 2016, 07:24:37 AM
Post by: Kittman on June 12, 2016, 09:15:51 AM
Post by: kirkl on June 12, 2016, 09:43:47 AM
What am I looking for in a genny ? Would this one do the job ? https://www.amazon.com/DuroStar-DS4000S-Starting-Portable-Generator/dp/B004918MO2?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=AKIAI33R7DM7RNAU5T2A&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B004918MO2&linkCode=as2&psc=1&tag=brgen-best-20
I wouldn't want to camp next to you with that thing running lol, if you can afford a inverter type that would be much better. They are a lot quieter.
Post by: brush hunter on June 12, 2016, 09:54:48 AM
Post by: Wacenturion on June 12, 2016, 10:21:20 AM
What am I looking for in a genny ? Would this one do the job ? https://www.amazon.com/DuroStar-DS4000S-Starting-Portable-Generator/dp/B004918MO2?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=AKIAI33R7DM7RNAU5T2A&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B004918MO2&linkCode=as2&psc=1&tag=brgen-best-20
Probably, but why would you want to not go with the one I posted. It comes complete with wheels and handles whereas this one you posted does not unless you pay the same as the one I suggested. The one I linked is also more powerful (4850/3850 vs. yours at 4000/3300) and will also run on propane as well. On propane it is even more economical and runs longer. Nice to have that ability if you run out of gas but still have some propane available Believe me when I tell you the DuroMax I listed is a great deal..........
Post by: Mark Brenckle on June 12, 2016, 10:26:57 AM
:yeah: how heavy is that generator?X2, I have a similar one that's wheeled and I have to load it in the truck with my tractor and hope my hunting buddies will help me unload it. Plus it's really really loud and annoying! It's great if the power goes out here at home but not convenient for camping.
Post by: Wacenturion on June 12, 2016, 10:27:39 AM
What am I looking for in a genny ? Would this one do the job ? https://www.amazon.com/DuroStar-DS4000S-Starting-Portable-Generator/dp/B004918MO2?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=AKIAI33R7DM7RNAU5T2A&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B004918MO2&linkCode=as2&psc=1&tag=brgen-best-20
I wouldn't want to camp next to you with that thing running lol, if you can afford a inverter type that would be much better. They are a lot quieter.
For what it's worth the one I linked is pretty darn quiet and would not be annoying. I have a long power cord extension which places the generator approximately 20 feet away behind the trailer and we really don't even notice it running except for a muffled low tone. Weighs 142 lbs. but easy to pull around with the handles and wheels.
Post by: Wacenturion on June 12, 2016, 10:34:31 AM
Duromax XP4850EH 3850 Running Watts/4850 Starting Watts Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator
by DuroMax
4.4 out of 5 stars 74 customer reviews
| 96 answered questions
Was: $566.48
Price: $477.18 & FREE Shipping. Details
You Save: $89.30 (16%)
Post by: Russ McDonald on June 12, 2016, 11:04:41 AM
Post by: jkthomps on June 12, 2016, 11:18:02 AM
Honda 2000 generatorX2 but get two of them. Pay once cry once.
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Post by: KFhunter on June 12, 2016, 11:26:15 AM
I forgot to mention and back up camera on your truck. Real easy to install one if your truck doesn't have one. You can also put one on the back of your trailer and some are wireless.
been thing about this a lot, shopping for flip up single din stereo decks which I can plug in a couple of camera's. Sure nice to align hitches with a properly installed camera looking at the hitch ball and super nice backing up a trailer.
Post by: Wacenturion on June 12, 2016, 11:26:48 AM
Technical Specifications
Current (120V/240VAC) & (12VDC).
Amps: 30.
Decibel: 69 dBA, measured from 7 meters.
Dimensions Without Wheel Kit: 23.2'' L x 17'' W x 17'' H.
Dimensions W/ Wheel Kit: 36" L X 21" W X 24" H.
Weight: 142 lbs.
Post by: jkthomps on June 12, 2016, 11:28:40 AM
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000BUQOGI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1465755980&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=rv+power+cord+adapters&dpPl=1&dpID=31vjgKr-kxL&ref=plSrch
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003YJPC2K/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1465756080&sr=8-2&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=rv+water+regulator&dpPl=1&dpID=51wFf6%2Br-qL&ref=plSrch
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Post by: KFhunter on June 12, 2016, 11:31:21 AM
anyways
69DB is twice as loud as 59DB and carries approx 10 times as far according to DB sound charts.
Post by: Encore 280 on June 12, 2016, 11:32:05 AM
www.andersenhitches.com
Post by: jkthomps on June 12, 2016, 11:32:55 AM
The lpg generator is nice because you don't have to take extra fuel. I used to hook it up to the propane tanks on the trailer or just bring a few extra tanks. No gas cans to deal with.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004BKI0UW/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1465756156&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=sportsman+rv+generator+lpg&dpPl=1&dpID=51EH14e8wmL&ref=plSrch
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Post by: Wacenturion on June 12, 2016, 11:37:56 AM
69 DB is on the threshold of being too loud for a lot of camping areas (although I avoid those areas like a plague) but when on road trips and having to use crowded parks I'd want a quieter generator. A camp ground host would take one look at a generator -see it's appearance, not a honda or yamaha- and declare it too loud and say you must turn it off. but but but it's rated at 69 db host....I really detest campgorund hosts crawling up inside my rear end. Ruins my camping trip as it gives Mrs. KF something to complain about the whole weekend.....
anyways
69DB is twice as loud as 59DB and carries approx 10 times as far according to DB sound charts.
All I can say is, the one I have is pretty darn quiet. Much quieter than most generators I have heard beeing used around RV's. For what it's worth.......
Post by: KFhunter on June 12, 2016, 11:44:09 AM
Probably a great deer camp genny, cheap and no huge loss if stolen like a couple honda's.
I'd be nervous at parks full of stuffy tree huggers though.
Post by: huntandjeep on June 12, 2016, 11:48:36 AM
I will NEVER stay in a RV park only mountain camping so noise bothering the neighbors 5' away won't be an issue.
Post by: Wacenturion on June 12, 2016, 12:15:37 PM
Guess I will look into the Duramax Genny. What about inverters , surge protectors ? This little stuff is starting to add up :chuckle:
I will NEVER stay in a RV park only mountain camping so noise bothering the neighbors 5' away won't be an issue.
Same reason I bought it for my trailer on my property in the Blues. The friend of mine that recently bought one got the adapter plug with it, something I didn't get a year or so ago when I bought mine. Allows you the full 30 amps vs plugging into one of the two 20 amp plug in sockets with a 20 amp adapter plug like your house plug in (which however, will still charge your batteries).
Post by: Mudman on June 12, 2016, 12:58:35 PM
Post by: DRobnsn on June 13, 2016, 10:44:48 AM
I'm thinking about getting this generator, 95lbs, wireless remote, 58dba, and it will run the AC.
https://www.amazon.com/Champion-Power-Equipment-75537i-Generator/dp/B00JZQUSAC/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1465839274&sr=8-6&keywords=generator+inverter
Post by: whacker1 on June 13, 2016, 12:04:25 PM
Post by: huntandjeep on June 13, 2016, 03:15:12 PM
Was just looking at this generator last night.
I'm thinking about getting this generator, 95lbs, wireless remote, 58dba, and it will run the AC.
https://www.amazon.com/Champion-Power-Equipment-75537i-Generator/dp/B00JZQUSAC/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1465839274&sr=8-6&keywords=generator+inverter
Post by: templar021 on June 13, 2016, 05:18:09 PM
Post by: Firedogg on June 13, 2016, 05:49:33 PM
Post by: JDHasty on June 13, 2016, 05:58:39 PM
Alot of good info guys. Trailer already has electric tongue/ stabilizer jacks. Led lighting throughout. Its equipped with an outdoor kitchen ( although we will probably use our camp chef 3 burner stove more). I've already thought about the fire extinguishers, carpet , leveling blocks and chocks. Thinking about a 3500w Honda or Briggs jenny for the A/C / microwave ( doubt we will use the microwave) . Maybe a portable solar panel to keep the batteries charged?
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
I was going to say electric jacks and Camp Chef 3 burner. Get the two burner griddle if you don't already have it. Get dealer to put in two big six volt batteries and credit you for the 12 V battery.
Post by: huntandjeep on June 13, 2016, 07:44:31 PM
Griddle is already covered. ;). Been reading and it seams alot of people use the 2 6 v golf batteries instead of the 12v ( I made the dealer throw in a second 12v) . Why , what gains are made by going from duel 12v's to duel 6v's ? Or are you talking about going from a single 12v to. 2 6v's.Alot of good info guys. Trailer already has electric tongue/ stabilizer jacks. Led lighting throughout. Its equipped with an outdoor kitchen ( although we will probably use our camp chef 3 burner stove more). I've already thought about the fire extinguishers, carpet , leveling blocks and chocks. Thinking about a 3500w Honda or Briggs jenny for the A/C / microwave ( doubt we will use the microwave) . Maybe a portable solar panel to keep the batteries charged?
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
I was going to say electric jacks and Camp Chef 3 burner. Get the two burner griddle if you don't already have it. Get dealer to put in two big six volt batteries and credit you for the 12 V battery.
Post by: JDHasty on June 13, 2016, 08:08:41 PM
Griddle is already covered. ;). Been reading and it seams alot of people use the 2 6 v golf batteries instead of the 12v . WhyAlot of good info guys. Trailer already has electric tongue/ stabilizer jacks. Led lighting throughout. Its equipped with an outdoor kitchen ( although we will probably use our camp chef 3 burner stove more). I've already thought about the fire extinguishers, carpet , leveling blocks and chocks. Thinking about a 3500w Honda or Briggs jenny for the A/C / microwave ( doubt we will use the microwave) . Maybe a portable solar panel to keep the batteries charged?
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
I was going to say electric jacks and Camp Chef 3 burner. Get the two burner griddle if you don't already have it. Get dealer to put in two big six volt batteries and credit you for the 12 V battery.
Heck of a lot more capacity.
Post by: huntandjeep on June 13, 2016, 08:11:49 PM
Was editing my previous post while you responded.Griddle is already covered. ;). Been reading and it seams alot of people use the 2 6 v golf batteries instead of the 12v . WhyAlot of good info guys. Trailer already has electric tongue/ stabilizer jacks. Led lighting throughout. Its equipped with an outdoor kitchen ( although we will probably use our camp chef 3 burner stove more). I've already thought about the fire extinguishers, carpet , leveling blocks and chocks. Thinking about a 3500w Honda or Briggs jenny for the A/C / microwave ( doubt we will use the microwave) . Maybe a portable solar panel to keep the batteries charged?
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
I was going to say electric jacks and Camp Chef 3 burner. Get the two burner griddle if you don't already have it. Get dealer to put in two big six volt batteries and credit you for the 12 V battery.
Heck of a lot more capacity.
Post by: baker5150 on June 13, 2016, 08:25:12 PM
Griddle is already covered. ;). Been reading and it seams alot of people use the 2 6 v golf batteries instead of the 12v . WhyAlot of good info guys. Trailer already has electric tongue/ stabilizer jacks. Led lighting throughout. Its equipped with an outdoor kitchen ( although we will probably use our camp chef 3 burner stove more). I've already thought about the fire extinguishers, carpet , leveling blocks and chocks. Thinking about a 3500w Honda or Briggs jenny for the A/C / microwave ( doubt we will use the microwave) . Maybe a portable solar panel to keep the batteries charged?
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
I was going to say electric jacks and Camp Chef 3 burner. Get the two burner griddle if you don't already have it. Get dealer to put in two big six volt batteries and credit you for the 12 V battery.
Heck of a lot more capacity.
It's anywhere from 10 to 20% more capacity. They cost more, in some cases a lot more. But worth it if you dry camo a lot.
I was going to go the 6 volt route but opted for a third 12 volt instead. I got 50% more capacity at a cheaper price. Just had to build a bracket to mount it and wire it up.
I hear 6 volts have a longer life span, but I figure it's all relative to the brand and quality of battery.
Post by: JDHasty on June 13, 2016, 08:42:50 PM
Post by: baker5150 on June 13, 2016, 09:15:18 PM
Total of 375ah for $225
Looking at the Trojans they run anywhere from $125 to $300 each for 6 volt and only 225ah
Other than a deeper discharge like the video states, (and he compares 1 12v to 2 6v, not sure why since most RV's have 2 batteries) I can't see the added cost paying off.
I do lose some ah thru equalization thru 3 as oppose to 2. But it's minimal if even noticeable.
Post by: EyeTooth on June 13, 2016, 09:42:20 PM
Post by: JDHasty on June 14, 2016, 05:54:17 AM
Post by: CP on June 14, 2016, 06:30:17 AM
Griddle is already covered. ;). Been reading and it seams alot of people use the 2 6 v golf batteries instead of the 12v ( I made the dealer throw in a second 12v) . Why , what gains are made by going from duel 12v's to duel 6v's ? Or are you talking about going from a single 12v to. 2 6v's.Alot of good info guys. Trailer already has electric tongue/ stabilizer jacks. Led lighting throughout. Its equipped with an outdoor kitchen ( although we will probably use our camp chef 3 burner stove more). I've already thought about the fire extinguishers, carpet , leveling blocks and chocks. Thinking about a 3500w Honda or Briggs jenny for the A/C / microwave ( doubt we will use the microwave) . Maybe a portable solar panel to keep the batteries charged?
How should I keep the batteries charged when not in use ? Trickle charger / solar charger ?
Not sure which load distribution hitch the dealer is "throwing" :chuckle: in . Tow vehicle is a 12 F350 long bed crew cab diesel
I was going to say electric jacks and Camp Chef 3 burner. Get the two burner griddle if you don't already have it. Get dealer to put in two big six volt batteries and credit you for the 12 V battery.
The 6V can take more drain/charge cycles before they die but you pay more for them and they are heavier. Also if one battery dies you are SOL. With 2 12V batteries when one dies you still can operate on a single battery at 12V - just for less time.
Bottom line is 12V batteries work fine, are cheaper and lighter may not last as long but don't drain them too deeply, keep them charged and they will serve you well.
I haven't seen anyone talk battery chargers. You typical RV/trailer setup only has 3 or so amp chargers, not enough. Rule of thumb is 20% of your capacity - that is if you have 200 amp-hours of battery bank you want a 40 amp charger. You can run a 40 amp charger with a small (1000 Watt or so) generator. That and an inverter is all you need. Run all your AC equipment off the inverter, all the DC off the battery bank, run the generator only to recharge the batteries.
Post by: C-Money on June 14, 2016, 06:46:49 AM
Post by: kellama2001 on June 14, 2016, 06:56:57 AM
http://www.ebay.com/itm/HONDA-EU2000i-GENERATOR-EXTENDED-RUN-3-2-GALLON-FUEL-TANK-SYSTEM-READ-FIRST-/181662371610?hash=item2a4bebcf1a:g:WcUAAOSwPc9W0x5U (http://www.ebay.com/itm/HONDA-EU2000i-GENERATOR-EXTENDED-RUN-3-2-GALLON-FUEL-TANK-SYSTEM-READ-FIRST-/181662371610?hash=item2a4bebcf1a:g:WcUAAOSwPc9W0x5U)
Post by: birddogdad on June 14, 2016, 07:21:50 AM
generators - the Honda 2000's are great, can hook series if needed for heavy loads. I converted the very small gas tank to a boat marine tank, squeeze ball and quick connect. Routed from the outlet of the gas tank directly. Lasts 3-5 days on this tank. There are systems that suck from the gas cap on the generators too but they are fragile connectors. Honda has a series box connection system for 2 generators that works well for pairing operations.
Airbags/sway bars - if your vehicle squats, get some to level your ride. Handling will be greatly improved. Tongue weight is important, if your water is in the rear of trailer, wait to arrive before filling to keep your tongue "heavy" or your trailer will wag down the highway.
Good bed - I hate what comes in a camper trailer for a mattress. I added a thick memory foam and it is a whole different level of comfort!
Fuses - BRING SPARES!!
Batteries - 6 volts are great but very spendy and bulky if room is a premium, just link additional 12V batteries to increase amps red to red** or you create a 24V system and trash things!! Cold weather camping, overnight heating is taxing on the system. 12V runs the fans which in the teens, kick off and on frequently. Add one at a time till you meet needs, unlimited connecting this way, batteries could be set under trailer but would recommend off the ground. Have not purchased a solar panel yet for daytime recharge but its on my radar....
Small electric space heater - if you are camping in cold weather, this is a backup if your main system fails. Right in the middle of say Elk season (yep been there). I would not use a buddy/gas in the trailer for this as alternative with CO issues.
hope these tricks help~
Post by: Sumpnneedskillin on June 14, 2016, 07:51:36 AM
If you have slide outs the slide out braces seem to help with the rocking
We keep a 5g bucket of the compressed sawdust firewood bricks for "RV park" fires. Bucket can also be used to fill the tank. My trailer will do a bucket fill via suction.
A string of LED Christmas lights for added light under the awning
Bottle Jack
Various spray lubes, I have Triflow, WD-40 and Silicon
Leather Gloves
Folding table
Tubs for water hoses and accessories (filters, spare o rings, pressure regulators, back flow preventer etc)
Tarp (or two) and straps
Awning anchors and tie down straps
Cable and lock for locking up the generator &/or bicycles
Axe
We have two carpets. A large one for when the weather is good and a small astro turf type one for when the weather is wet and rainy. We also have the step rugs which help.
Second the small space heater. We use it when we are at a full hook up park. Use their electricity vs my propane.
Post by: JDHasty on June 14, 2016, 08:12:12 AM
Post by: KFhunter on June 14, 2016, 05:11:42 PM
On the 19th, our brand new camper will be in the shop for a month getting warranty work done. Never would have guessed I would have found so much wrong with a brand new rig. I feel like a got a brand new piece of crap. I had them install a battery disconnect for when the camper is not in use.
I'm pretty well convinced they're all junk. I did a bunch of looking on the RV forums and all of them have complaints even the half million dollar rigs.
Post by: jkthomps on June 14, 2016, 09:10:22 PM
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Post by: syoungs on June 14, 2016, 09:14:14 PM
Some great advice here for sure. Don't forget the big box of rubber/surgical gloves for dumping the grey/black tanks. Make sure you have all the hoses, elbows, and whatever else you can think of to dump at the different dump sites.
I'm thinking about getting this generator, 95lbs, wireless remote, 58dba, and it will run the AC.
https://www.amazon.com/Champion-Power-Equipment-75537i-Generator/dp/B00JZQUSAC/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1465839274&sr=8-6&keywords=generator+inverter
I have this generator minus the electric start, I did a review on here last July, I'd highly recommend buying one, over 250 hours now, without a hitch.
Post by: huntandjeep on June 16, 2016, 05:13:31 PM
Don't take the dealers word on your hitch height. Make sure you take it to a flat area and level it out and measure it all yourself and adjust it if needed.What am I measuring ? How will I know they didn't set it up correctly ?
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Post by: jkthomps on June 16, 2016, 11:04:32 PM
Don't take the dealers word on your hitch height. Make sure you take it to a flat area and level it out and measure it all yourself and adjust it if needed.What am I measuring ? How will I know they didn't set it up correctly ?
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Watch the first 2 or so minutes on this video I found to explain it pretty straightforward. The video says 20 1/2" ball height on their trailers, but yours might be different. My trailer hitch height is 23 or 24 inches or something like that for my trailer to ride level, this results in even weight on both trailer axles, level while towing, less sway, even wear on tires etcetera. I have airbags and a wd/sway control hitch to help keep my truck and trailer all level and inline. The dealer set my hitch too high when I first got it. I had to drop my hitch 2 notches so my trailer was level when all loaded up. Makes a huge difference when towing.
Here are a couple of photos of when I brought our new trailer home from the dealer. I am sitting on a hill, but you can still see the trailer was too high in the front and not riding level. I took it to a parking lot and leveled it all out and adjusted my hitch. All the difference in the world. I drove to Leavenworth and back twice now and it tows like a champ. Proper setup will go a long ways.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20160617%2F437487114226c9d3ce73d7898894fba9.jpg&hash=bca7d11a791e1720ebf0733efeed045372bf492a)
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20160617%2F26e03b3fb13f561d7498e56a8b2e92e8.jpg&hash=612df4222796e2a95227ef69834518597d424bd0)
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Post by: huntandjeep on June 18, 2016, 05:25:01 PM
Couple things. Should I invest in a battery disconnect ? Even though all lights etc are off the trailer is still drawing from the batteries correct ?
Will plugging into an outlet in my shop ( with the city power cable that came with the trailer) charge the batteries ? Or should I look into a battery trickle charger.
Post by: Mudman on June 18, 2016, 05:49:48 PM
Post by: brush hunter on June 19, 2016, 08:50:51 AM
Jisy wondering do you have a Reese anti sway bar.
Post by: jkthomps on June 19, 2016, 12:51:37 PM
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Post by: huntandjeep on June 19, 2016, 02:35:40 PM
Nice trailer, yes plug it into commercial power. The rectifier has a built in float charger.No on the Reese. They threw in an Equal -I-zer brand.
Jisy wondering do you have a Reese anti sway bar.
Post by: huntandjeep on June 24, 2016, 06:46:00 PM
Post by: Bofire on June 24, 2016, 07:05:06 PM
Carl
Post by: CAMPMEAT on June 24, 2016, 08:02:43 PM
Post by: Happy Gilmore on June 24, 2016, 11:16:46 PM
I do have black and grey water tanks, full shower/toilet inside. They are really well laid out for a small trailer. A bit pricey..
This is ours.
http://casitatraveltrailers.com/spirit-16-17/
Post by: JDHasty on June 26, 2016, 07:03:41 PM
My fiance came with a casita. At first I was skeptical. Now when I'm pulling fourth of July hill doing 85mph and not losing a bit of fuel economy and wear and tear in sold on it. I don't like being inside much anyways. A bed, fridge, hot water and stove top to make coffee ( and a bad ass air conditioning unit) is all I need lol
I have a 1973 Compact II by Hunter, double bed, room for porta potty, three burner stove & ice box. I know what ya' mean. We also have a Stealth Toy Hauler though.
The first kid almost beat us senseless before she was a year old trying to all sleep in one double bed. I bought it in '95 when I was single.
The pic is not mine, but mine is as nice.