I usually try not to delve into personal matters on this forum but @ 1:24 'someone' did something you don't see very often anymore. Mom would be proud.... 'Hats Off! Hat Etiquette for Everyone - The Emily Post Institute, Inc. Take hats off, including baseball caps … In someone's home. At mealtimes, at the table. While being introduced, indoors or out (unless it's frigid!) In a house of worship, unless a hat or head covering is required. Back to regular programming... This new facility is amazing and should be the standard other facilities should strive for. Seeing such heavy vehicles on lifts is amazing. While I am generally not price sensitive, I would gladly pay a premium for this type of quality service. Thanks for the timely video.
Hi Anthony! This is Peter here. We LOVE your comment, so I have to defend myself here a little bit! ;-) I ALWAYS remove my hat when walking through the door into a building or home. Always. The ONLY reason I purposely didn't for this shot is vanity.... I HATE having my bald head shot from above in these damn videos! 😂 Funny, but timely (and true) story... about a month ago, I walked into the tiny little local post office, and of course removed my baseball cap as I stepped inside. The nice lady at the counter made a big deal about having never seen people do that, and how polite I was. Both John and I were raised that it's impolite to wear hats indoors, so I'm embarrassed that my vanity got the better of me here. I'm placing the blame squarely on bad genes!! 🤣At least John did the right thing for both of us!
Great video demonstration Peter & John. I even get more great ideas from the background items you didn't talk about. Like a plastic pop bottle on a bypass tube. Brilliant but simple way to prevent annoying drips on those nice clean RV parking pads.I deal with First Truck Centre in Edmonton. Our Monaco Signature had fiberglass and paint repairs done in their body shop at the West Edmonton location. You absolutely can't tell where there was damage or repair. A fair price and excellent work is about as good as it gets. Bruce Emery is the Shop Manager. Bruce tells me today RV's constitute a large part of their customer base.
Hi Malcolm! That is so great to hear we're not the only ones who've had great experiences with First Truck, and that their Edmonton location is the same quality place (not surprised). It's also good to hear that their body shop is as good as their service, since we're looking into having the peeling clearcoat re-done around the radius around our roof. By the way, that bottle keeps oil off our toad, as well as RV pads! ☺️ ua-cam.com/video/9w12E68nseo/v-deo.html
We couldn't agree more about having expert eyes look over the RV. We have a gas coach and of course could change the oil and lube the nine grease fittings ourselves on our RV, but since our domicile state of Florida does not require any type of vehicle or state inspection we like to have professional service stations do this work and while they have our RV we ask them to look it over knowing they will spot an issue way before we ever would. We always enjoy your videos and have especially been loving the Patreon ones, you guys have been going above and beyond with them!! We look forward to part two, till then take care and safe travels guys!!
Nice job putting together this and all your videos. Not only does it cover questions that we ask ourselves but also some things that we probably need to ask ourselves:-) it's simple but I never thought of the screwdriver in the oil filter trick what a clever way to avoid spilling all that oil over your arm when you're taking it filter off.
Thanks Richard! I'd never though of that either, so when the tech brought a big hammer down under the engine, I kidded him about bringing in the "real mechanic's tools" now! 😂
This was an awesome video. Some great points on the importance of having trained techs going over your rig. Really has me reconsidering what I do myself and what I leave to the Experts. Looks like a top notch shop, glad y'all found a good one. I really like how they took measures to not track dirt in the coach. Just got ours back from the shop a few days ago and I am still trying to remove grease stains. Can't wait for part 2
Thanks Tucker! Part two will include a detailed discussion of how and why we decide which tasks to perform ourselves, along with a great example of the benefits of a trained tech getting eyes on things in some cases. Stay tuned!
Definitely the best RV Maintenance channel on YT !!! My family and I are going on our 3rd season (about 8 times per season) of camping after purchasing our 5’er and 90% of what I own or techniques I do is because of this channel !!! Keep up the great work and please don’t forget about us non-Patreons 😉 I look forward to Part 2 and future videos 👍🏽 Safe travels 🛣
Thanks so much! Great to hear we've been helpful. Don't worry... as promised, we're continuing with the same free videos here on UA-cam as always! Safe travels. 😊
To note for most newbies... Most RVs of this size do a once a year oil change and lube with air filter, fuel filter, oil filers, and even a flush. Just to start.. If you put lots of miles over the year then you may need to do it twice a year. Rear to need it more then that..
Nice to see that Cummings so dry underneath They were dang good but known to undercoat a truck as it was driven down the road lol And that oil filter they took could be a bear to get threaded back on. Looks like they caught a wheel bearing on it's way out. If one gets bad it will usually trip the ABS light before things get too horribly bad. Sets a gap or wobble run code
This video is spot on as to the importance of a knowledgeable tech inspecting. At 9:27 you mention having the ride height bushings inspected. I had an experience after having the coach inspected. The grommet fell out while traveling on the highway. The rear immediately dropped, the coach shuddered violently , and it felt and sounded like all of the tires had gone flat. Scared the you know what out of me! Luckily it did no permanent damage but having this happen due to a 90 cent rubber grommet was astonishing to me. Moral of story? Have qualified people work on your coach or gain the necessary knowledge and DIY!
Baldwin filters are pretty darn good...I run them on my diesel and gas rigs. Its good to know that some folks do recognize the value of quality filters. Thanks for the video!
Always love when I see you post a video. Not that we are getting a class A but I still learn something, which is always good in my book. And the way you treat your rig, if you ever sold it the new owner be wow like new still. That’s a costly maint to do but cheaper then breaking down on the road.
As of this typing there is 18 thumbs down, I don't understand why....what else are you guys expecting to see 😕 Great video, I'm heading over to part 2 next 👍.
Great to find a place that does the job to your satisfaction...part of why we went with a gas B+ MH...our mechanics in Havasu are honest and fair...a few times, even helped us with problems free of charge, when it was something simple (for them😂) Thanks for sharing your find.
😂 Thanks Jim! It's funny how that nice stable drone footage makes things look like a cartoon. We love the tilt-shift effect a little height can provide. If you want a good laugh, check out the sped-up mini-movie we posted this morning on Instagram... and be sure to turn on the sound! instagram.com/rvgeeks
I thought the same as well. The headline - "The RVgeeks embrace CGI for their YT Videos". The staging and everything looked so 'perfect' but glad to see it still is more art than science in the RVgeeks 'post production centre'.
Great to hear we've achieved that "cinematic look" so that we can shoot for Toy-Story-like quality in upcoming videos! Look out Pixar.... we're gunnin' for ya! 😂
Thanks for posting this. I have always wondered where we would get service on the road and this at least provides one option. Wish we had a facility like that nearby, I won't let any of the RV dealers touch my coach (long story). I do enjoy doing my own work, but there are things I prefer not to do and have a small shop in the next state I take it to when necessary.
I am fortunate to have an excellent truck repair shop just 3 miles from my home. I use that facility for all my "truck" chassis service and repair, from brake work to oil changes to state inspections. They have even warned me of things that have had a history of problems in my 2016 V10 Triton. That way they check those areas with each visit. And what I really like about this facility, their work is very reasonable.
Wow great info welcome to BC my home province. If you ever want to do a day trip to Vancouver Island Victoria ppls get in touch happy to show you around Pat
What an interesting video. I hope First Truck uses this video for their advertising! Very nicely done! I’m envious! I wish I knew how to work on an engine so I could play with all those cool gadgets!!! They have some nice equipment. Thanks for the video....waiting for #2!
I always do my own work and some people will say that it's too much hassle but not for me so I question part 2 brake issue seal or yikes spun bearing and getting ready to cook the spindle and start a fire.I also like the old slack adjusters that were manual not the automatic ones that people take for granted and don't check old school trucker when there were real truckers no GPS no backup cameras no cell phones just map book and a CB got me everywhere with no problems back when the world was a better place
Thanks for the supportive thoughts on our wheel/axle. We'll have complete details soon. I'm an old pro myself, a little in the trucking world, but far more driving tour and charter buses. I totally remember the old days, where it was just me and paper maps. But not only did I have no CB, but a busload of passengers, who assumed I knew everywhere I was going, regardless of the destination. I've been on five-day charters, with multiple first-time destinations in several states. The only thing worse than getting lost is getting lost with paying customers looking over your shoulder the entire time, wondering why they aren't at their hotel in time for their dinner reservation! The world may have been a better place back then, but if I could go back in time with an iPhone, power mirrors and a back-up camera, I'd be king of the world! 😁
How nice to find a full size RV/trucks repair shop that is top rate. Rare find. Last time I took my RV in for repairs it smelled like someone smoked inside and left a scratch on the rear paint where they backed it into a tree.
I am always queezy when I see guys rolling around under a coach depending on the air ride not to deflate. I didn't see any signs of blocking it up but sure hope they did. As I always tell everyone and as I have owned a Wanderlodge full on bus never ever go under a coach depending on the air system. It is something that has killed more than a few people. If that air let's go you get crushed like a bug.
Hi Gary! You are absolutely correct about the ramifications of the air system dropping, which also goes for using the RV's jack system to hold it up. That said, we have never, in 15 years of full-timing, seen a tech put blocks or jacks under our rig before rolling under it on a creeper. I guess they're so used to the reliability of the systems that they weigh that risk against the lost time if they put jacks under every rig they worked on. Not saying it's right... only that it's very common.
A rule I've always followed, if you can do the job yourself and know what you're doing, then do it, if not or have any doubts or questions, leave it to a professional. Better safe than sorry later on. Also prevents potential future expenses that can break the Bank.
Thanks. We agree 100%! As we mentioned at the end of the video, Part Two will be all about which tasks we perform ourselves, which we leave to the pros, which can go either way, and how and why we make those decisions. Stay tuned!
Since my partner and I plan to retire to a diesel motorcoach simular to your own, it would be awesome to know exactly what that routine maintenance cost you if you don't mind me asking. Paul & Neil from Toronto.
Speaking of RV maintenance, could you do a video providing your year by year annual maintenance cost of your class A. With you owning your Mountain Aire since 2005, this would be VERY helpful to potential class A buyers, since there is almost no long-term, year-by-year maintenance cost info available on the internet. Thanks in advance
Hi Dionyz! We'd love to do that, but it will take a pretty serious amount of time to assemble. We haven't kept a spreadsheet for the past 15 years, but we'll add it to our list and aee what we can do. In the meantime, we'll be sharing pricing information about this maintenance visit in the blog post that goes with Part Two of this video. Stay tuned! 😊
I have a small Navion coach....with Mercedes engine....do you think Freight Liner would work for my service.... red coolant..will CK into this! What an amazing place!! Thanks for share!
Hi Brenda! Since Freightliner Trucks is a division of Daimler Trucks North America, we're guessing that they would work on your Navion. But we'd suggest calling the shop you plan to visit first to confirm.
May day may day! I have a problem with my A/C and it's getting hot here in Arkansas. I have a digital Coleman Mach thermostat on my dual compressor pump. I turn it on and it will run good for about an hour. Then suddenly my thermostat will read that the inside temp is 30° F when it's actually 80° F in my RV. Then the pump will not turn on. If I shut it down, and turn off the breakers to the system, let sit overnight, It will again work for about an hour. And again give a false indoor temp reading and not turning the pump back on. Could this mean my thermostat is bad? I have no HVAC experience and Im stumped.
Oh boy, Arthur! We wish we could help out on this one... but we've never had any trouble with our ACs or thermostat (knock on wood), so we don't have any advice. It certainly sounds like it could be the thermostat failing... although it could also be the remote temperature sensor (if you have one... usually used if you have more than one heating/cooling zone). Or it could be a circuit failure in the AC unit itself. You may have better luck searching the forums at iRV2.com/forums and/or posting your question there (they're free to join and post), as someone else with your make & model of AC and/or RV may have some experience. Hope you get this fixed... and FAST!
It looks like a great facility and trained staff. Unfortunately the 12% sales tax in BC is substantial compared to places like Oregon which don't have a sales tax. I guess that is the price you pay for staying in a beautiful location in Canada.
Sorry Rick, but we rarely RV East of the Rockies, so no personal experience out there. The closest we know of doesn’t really fit the bill of being in the “Midwest” but we do have friends who have been going to Coach Care in Harrisburg, PA for years, and keep going back.
Hi guys! Great video! Can you tell me if the First centers have any age limits on RVs they'll take? I had another Freightliner truck repair facility tell me they will only service rigs 10 or less years old. As mine is a 2008, I'm getting nervous.
Hi Mark! We’ve never heard of anything like that, and since our rig is an 05, we’re guessing you’re in fine shape with an ‘08. Of course you can give them a call and speak to a service advisor about what services you’re looking for, and they obviously can tell you if there are any age related issues. But we doubt it.
Sorry to make you wait, Austin! We're already working hard on editing part two, which is more involved than part one. Currently slated (not promised, but looking good), for Wednesday, 5/16, nine days from today. Not to sound like I'm promoting anything, but our higher-level supporters on Patreon always get early access, usually three days before. So that's currently slated for next Sunday. Again, sorry for making you wait... but thanks for doing it!
Please I would like to know is having a diesel rv like a boat, everytime you take it out you have to repair something? We are looking at diesel because they hold their value but are we asking for a very expensive home to live in? thanks
Hi Melinda! Having three VERY close friends who own boats (one sailboat and two motorboats... all large enough to live aboard, and us having spent a week aboard two of those three), we feel we can safely say that owning an RV is NOT like owning a boat from the standpoint you mentioned. We have never once broken down or been left stranded in 15 years of full-timing. Our various little repair projects that crop up from time to time are typically no more challenging than re-stringing a window blind after the cord breaks, or adjusting basement door locks so they close correctly. Most of the work we've done is routine maintenance and upgrades/mods. That's not to say that things don't break, and we've had our share over the years. But we never get the feeling that "things are always breaking" and enjoy spending time USING our RV far more than spending time working on it. We did buy both our RVs new, so of course buying an older, used rig is much likelier to require more fixing of things. But our current RV is over 13 years old now, and because we take good care of it, it treats us well back and we don't find it a bottomless pit of need by any stretch. Your mileage may vary of course, but if you go in with the understanding that it is indeed an assembly of mechanical pieces that can, and at some point will, require some attention, you'll have a realistic and happy experience. Personally, after seeing the ridiculous amount of work, time and effort that our friends have to put into keeping things running on their boats, we wouldn't take one as a gift! 😉
That facility was spotless..until you two rocked up! :P I liked the name of the Coach next to you at the centre, The Berkshire? That's where I am here in the UK Berkshire, just west of London :D
Berkshire is actually a pretty decent place to be. Hour from London, hour from the coast. Stunning countryside. Windsor Castle (royal residence) Ascot Racecourse. The White Horse, Naked Man. Berkshire Downs. Stonehenge not too far
@@RVgeeks I called the Abbotsford location yesterday and they said diesel only. But the girl who answered the phone didn't seem to sure of herself and didn't know what a F53 chassis was. Maybe I need to call back. Cheers guys and thanks!
Looks like a good quick fix. My back ground questions why the "breathe tube" is not routed back to the intake. (IE: Type 4 Positive Crankcase Ventilation systems) But, my exp is on smaller diesels, and gas powered stuff.
the air dryer cartridge is changed every 2-4 years. not every service. Fleetguard fuel filters are nothing special BTW. Cummins just puts them on at the factory because they're cheap just like the green coolant.
Hey Greg! Those filters are probably cheap because they're Cummins's own brand! LOL And you're right about the air dryer, just like the coolant... not an annual task. Next year we'll be due for our transmission service! 😊
That's a great question, Rider, but one we're not sure of the answer on. If you'd like to call to find out, the number of the Abbotsford shop is (778) 752-0100. If you talk to Laura (she's the Service Advisor who helped us, both for real and in the video), please tell her we said Hi!
We agree... on a car, where we tighten only by hand. We asked the tech about that, too, and he said that with such a large filter in a challenging location to grasp it, he can get a much better feel for when it's correctly tightened by using a filter wrench. He specifically went back in with the "regular" style wrench, because he said the extended one he used to get it started has too much "stretch" to it, preventing him from accurately judging how secure it is. He really seemed to know his stuff, and we have a lot of confidence in what he did. 😊
We do indeed... most of the time. As we mentioned at the end of the video, Part Two will be all about which tasks we perform ourselves, which we leave to the pros, which can go either way, and how and why we make those decisions. Stay tuned!
Different type of suspension that trucks... our wheels aren't supposed to hang from the suspension. We've seen videos showing buses up on this type of lift, and the tag axles hang WAY down, which isn't good for the suspension.
RVgeeks I didn’t think of that and I thought that there was a lock for the tag axle so it can be locked in the raised position but I guess that would be too complicated.
RVgeeks so by that do you mean that if your rig had the lifting ability it means that the rearmost axle can be raised and lowered independently of the other axles? This of course only applies to the rearmost axle.
Great information! Thanks again! The attention to detail is fantastic. What would we do without you! Safe and happy travels!
Thank you so much, Brendan! Safe travels to you too. 😊
The best "go-to" RV channel for real world applications. Looking forward to part 2!
I usually try not to delve into personal matters on this forum but @ 1:24 'someone' did something you don't see very often anymore. Mom would be proud....
'Hats Off! Hat Etiquette for Everyone - The Emily Post Institute, Inc.
Take hats off, including baseball caps … In someone's home. At mealtimes, at the table. While being introduced, indoors or out (unless it's frigid!) In a house of worship, unless a hat or head covering is required.
Back to regular programming...
This new facility is amazing and should be the standard other facilities should strive for. Seeing such heavy vehicles on lifts is amazing. While I am generally not price sensitive, I would gladly pay a premium for this type of quality service.
Thanks for the timely video.
Hi Anthony! This is Peter here. We LOVE your comment, so I have to defend myself here a little bit! ;-) I ALWAYS remove my hat when walking through the door into a building or home. Always. The ONLY reason I purposely didn't for this shot is vanity.... I HATE having my bald head shot from above in these damn videos! 😂 Funny, but timely (and true) story... about a month ago, I walked into the tiny little local post office, and of course removed my baseball cap as I stepped inside. The nice lady at the counter made a big deal about having never seen people do that, and how polite I was. Both John and I were raised that it's impolite to wear hats indoors, so I'm embarrassed that my vanity got the better of me here. I'm placing the blame squarely on bad genes!! 🤣At least John did the right thing for both of us!
Great video demonstration Peter & John. I even get more great ideas from the background items you didn't talk about. Like a plastic pop bottle on a bypass tube. Brilliant but simple way to prevent annoying drips on those nice clean RV parking pads.I deal with First Truck Centre in Edmonton. Our Monaco Signature had fiberglass and paint repairs done in their body shop at the West Edmonton location. You absolutely can't tell where there was damage or repair. A fair price and excellent work is about as good as it gets. Bruce Emery is the Shop Manager. Bruce tells me today RV's constitute a large part of their customer base.
Hi Malcolm! That is so great to hear we're not the only ones who've had great experiences with First Truck, and that their Edmonton location is the same quality place (not surprised). It's also good to hear that their body shop is as good as their service, since we're looking into having the peeling clearcoat re-done around the radius around our roof. By the way, that bottle keeps oil off our toad, as well as RV pads! ☺️ ua-cam.com/video/9w12E68nseo/v-deo.html
We couldn't agree more about having expert eyes look over the RV. We have a gas coach and of course could change the oil and lube the nine grease fittings ourselves on our RV, but since our domicile state of Florida does not require any type of vehicle or state inspection we like to have professional service stations do this work and while they have our RV we ask them to look it over knowing they will spot an issue way before we ever would. We always enjoy your videos and have especially been loving the Patreon ones, you guys have been going above and beyond with them!! We look forward to part two, till then take care and safe travels guys!!
Thanks so much for the comments and additional input. Much appreciated. 😊
Nice job putting together this and all your videos. Not only does it cover questions that we ask ourselves but also some things that we probably need to ask ourselves:-) it's simple but I never thought of the screwdriver in the oil filter trick what a clever way to avoid spilling all that oil over your arm when you're taking it filter off.
Thanks Richard! I'd never though of that either, so when the tech brought a big hammer down under the engine, I kidded him about bringing in the "real mechanic's tools" now! 😂
Richard Haugen iii
This was an awesome video. Some great points on the importance of having trained techs going over your rig. Really has me reconsidering what I do myself and what I leave to the Experts. Looks like a top notch shop, glad y'all found a good one. I really like how they took measures to not track dirt in the coach. Just got ours back from the shop a few days ago and I am still trying to remove grease stains. Can't wait for part 2
Thanks Tucker! Part two will include a detailed discussion of how and why we decide which tasks to perform ourselves, along with a great example of the benefits of a trained tech getting eyes on things in some cases. Stay tuned!
RVgeeks awesome
Definitely the best RV Maintenance channel on YT !!!
My family and I are going on our 3rd season (about 8 times per season) of camping after purchasing our 5’er and 90% of what I own or techniques I do is because of this channel !!!
Keep up the great work and please don’t forget about us non-Patreons 😉
I look forward to Part 2 and future videos 👍🏽
Safe travels 🛣
Thanks so much! Great to hear we've been helpful. Don't worry... as promised, we're continuing with the same free videos here on UA-cam as always! Safe travels. 😊
To note for most newbies... Most RVs of this size do a once a year oil change and lube with air filter, fuel filter, oil filers, and even a flush. Just to start.. If you put lots of miles over the year then you may need to do it twice a year. Rear to need it more then that..
Always learning from you guys. And that’s a good thing! Thanks so much for taking the time! Looking forward to part 2
Thanks Chris! 😊
Nice to see that Cummings so dry underneath They were dang good but known to undercoat a truck as it was driven down the road lol And that oil filter they took could be a bear to get threaded back on. Looks like they caught a wheel bearing on it's way out. If one gets bad it will usually trip the ABS light before things get too horribly bad. Sets a gap or wobble run code
There isn't any g in Cummins!
This video is spot on as to the importance of a knowledgeable tech inspecting. At 9:27 you mention having the ride height bushings inspected. I had an experience after having the coach inspected. The grommet fell out while traveling on the highway. The rear immediately dropped, the coach shuddered violently , and it felt and sounded like all of the tires had gone flat. Scared the you know what out of me! Luckily it did no permanent damage but having this happen due to a 90 cent rubber grommet was astonishing to me. Moral of story? Have qualified people work on your coach or gain the necessary knowledge and DIY!
Thanks for sharing your story, Raymond. Glad you and your coach are okay!
Baldwin filters are pretty darn good...I run them on my diesel and gas rigs. Its good to know that some folks do recognize the value of quality filters. Thanks for the video!
Always love when I see you post a video. Not that we are getting a class A but I still learn something, which is always good in my book. And the way you treat your rig, if you ever sold it the new owner be wow like new still. That’s a costly maint to do but cheaper then breaking down on the road.
Thanks so much Roger! We sure do try to take good care of our rig.
As of this typing there is 18 thumbs down, I don't understand why....what else are you guys expecting to see 😕
Great video, I'm heading over to part 2 next 👍.
Great to find a place that does the job to your satisfaction...part of why we went with a gas B+ MH...our mechanics in Havasu are honest and fair...a few times, even helped us with problems free of charge, when it was something simple
(for them😂)
Thanks for sharing your find.
Having a shop you can trust is the best! 😊
I love learning from this channel!
Impressive video of an impressive faciltiy! Can't wait for part 2 !!!!!
Thanks Jim!
Excellent video. I learned a lot about diesel chassis. Thank you.
Thank you for the very useful content and great video! Always enjoy your very organized and professional information delivery.
Thanks for the info and locations for RV service... saved the location on my Google Map just in case I need some service. Thanks!!!!
Hi Hector! This shop is just one of many great reasons to visit Beautiful British Columbia! 🇨🇦😉
Keep up the good videos I do enjoy them. I've even gotten the wife to watch a few, with many stops for Q&A and a replay or 3.
Mike Doherty Thanks Mike!
That place is so new I'm still not unconvinced the opening shot of the building isn't CGI!
😂 Thanks Jim! It's funny how that nice stable drone footage makes things look like a cartoon. We love the tilt-shift effect a little height can provide. If you want a good laugh, check out the sped-up mini-movie we posted this morning on Instagram... and be sure to turn on the sound! instagram.com/rvgeeks
I thought the same as well. The headline - "The RVgeeks embrace CGI for their YT Videos". The staging and everything looked so 'perfect' but glad to see it still is more art than science in the RVgeeks 'post production centre'.
Great to hear we've achieved that "cinematic look" so that we can shoot for Toy-Story-like quality in upcoming videos! Look out Pixar.... we're gunnin' for ya! 😂
Kinda disappointed there was no burn out . . . ;)
We're trying to be responsible, Jim.... at least on camera. 😁
Very much enjoyed this post. Thank you for sharing.
Great video! Can't wait for part 2.
Thanks for posting this. I have always wondered where we would get service on the road and this at least provides one option. Wish we had a facility like that nearby, I won't let any of the RV dealers touch my coach (long story). I do enjoy doing my own work, but there are things I prefer not to do and have a small shop in the next state I take it to when necessary.
We sure know what you mean about not trusting certain dealers. Been there done that. :-/
I am fortunate to have an excellent truck repair shop just 3 miles from my home. I use that facility for all my "truck" chassis service and repair, from brake work to oil changes to state inspections. They have even warned me of things that have had a history of problems in my 2016 V10 Triton. That way they check those areas with each visit. And what I really like about this facility, their work is very reasonable.
That’s great to have a good shop so close! 😊
Wow great info welcome to BC my home province. If you ever want to do a day trip to Vancouver Island Victoria ppls get in touch happy to show you around
Pat
Hi Pat! BC is our home province too! 😄 We love the island. Spent a whole month out there last summer in the RV and had a blast. Sorry we missed you.
What an interesting video. I hope First Truck uses this video for their advertising! Very nicely done! I’m envious! I wish I knew how to work on an engine so I could play with all those cool gadgets!!! They have some nice equipment.
Thanks for the video....waiting for #2!
Thanks so much! We hope they like it enough to use it, too, since they earned our business and respect.
definitely maintenance left to the pros. thumbs up, Lou
I know what you mean about having some work done by professionals while doing other work ourselves. Can't wait for the next part.
I always do my own work and some people will say that it's too much hassle but not for me so I question part 2 brake issue seal or yikes spun bearing and getting ready to cook the spindle and start a fire.I also like the old slack adjusters that were manual not the automatic ones that people take for granted and don't check old school trucker when there were real truckers no GPS no backup cameras no cell phones just map book and a CB got me everywhere with no problems back when the world was a better place
Thanks for the supportive thoughts on our wheel/axle. We'll have complete details soon. I'm an old pro myself, a little in the trucking world, but far more driving tour and charter buses. I totally remember the old days, where it was just me and paper maps. But not only did I have no CB, but a busload of passengers, who assumed I knew everywhere I was going, regardless of the destination. I've been on five-day charters, with multiple first-time destinations in several states. The only thing worse than getting lost is getting lost with paying customers looking over your shoulder the entire time, wondering why they aren't at their hotel in time for their dinner reservation! The world may have been a better place back then, but if I could go back in time with an iPhone, power mirrors and a back-up camera, I'd be king of the world! 😁
Great video
Great video as always.
How nice to find a full size RV/trucks repair shop that is top rate. Rare find. Last time I took my RV in for repairs it smelled like someone smoked inside and left a scratch on the rear paint where they backed it into a tree.
Yikes! That's our worst nightmare. 😟
I am always queezy when I see guys rolling around under a coach depending on the air ride not to deflate. I didn't see any signs of blocking it up but sure hope they did. As I always tell everyone and as I have owned a Wanderlodge full on bus never ever go under a coach depending on the air system. It is something that has killed more than a few people. If that air let's go you get crushed like a bug.
Hi Gary! You are absolutely correct about the ramifications of the air system dropping, which also goes for using the RV's jack system to hold it up. That said, we have never, in 15 years of full-timing, seen a tech put blocks or jacks under our rig before rolling under it on a creeper. I guess they're so used to the reliability of the systems that they weigh that risk against the lost time if they put jacks under every rig they worked on. Not saying it's right... only that it's very common.
This was really interesting to watch. Which is unusual for an oil change. It was like one of those instructional videos. I hooked me. :)
Glad you enjoyed it! 😊
A rule I've always followed, if you can do the job yourself and know what you're doing, then do it, if not or have any doubts or questions, leave it to a professional. Better safe than sorry later on. Also prevents potential future expenses that can break the Bank.
Thanks. We agree 100%! As we mentioned at the end of the video, Part Two will be all about which tasks we perform ourselves, which we leave to the pros, which can go either way, and how and why we make those decisions. Stay tuned!
Nice video, thanks.
Since my partner and I plan to retire to a diesel motorcoach simular to your own, it would be awesome to know exactly what that routine maintenance cost you if you don't mind me asking. Paul & Neil from Toronto.
Hi Paul & Neil! We'll be sharing some specifics about costs in the post for Part Two. Stay tuned! 😊
Speaking of RV maintenance, could you do a video providing your year by year annual maintenance cost of your class A.
With you owning your Mountain Aire since 2005, this would be VERY helpful to potential class A buyers, since there is almost no long-term, year-by-year maintenance cost info available on the internet. Thanks in advance
Hi Dionyz! We'd love to do that, but it will take a pretty serious amount of time to assemble. We haven't kept a spreadsheet for the past 15 years, but we'll add it to our list and aee what we can do. In the meantime, we'll be sharing pricing information about this maintenance visit in the blog post that goes with Part Two of this video. Stay tuned! 😊
I have a small Navion coach....with Mercedes engine....do you think Freight Liner would work for my service.... red coolant..will CK into this! What an amazing place!! Thanks for share!
Hi Brenda! Since Freightliner Trucks is a division of Daimler Trucks North America, we're guessing that they would work on your Navion. But we'd suggest calling the shop you plan to visit first to confirm.
May day may day! I have a problem with my A/C and it's getting hot here in Arkansas. I have a digital Coleman Mach thermostat on my dual compressor pump. I turn it on and it will run good for about an hour. Then suddenly my thermostat will read that the inside temp is 30° F when it's actually 80° F in my RV. Then the pump will not turn on. If I shut it down, and turn off the breakers to the system, let sit overnight, It will again work for about an hour. And again give a false indoor temp reading and not turning the pump back on. Could this mean my thermostat is bad? I have no HVAC experience and Im stumped.
Oh boy, Arthur! We wish we could help out on this one... but we've never had any trouble with our ACs or thermostat (knock on wood), so we don't have any advice. It certainly sounds like it could be the thermostat failing... although it could also be the remote temperature sensor (if you have one... usually used if you have more than one heating/cooling zone). Or it could be a circuit failure in the AC unit itself. You may have better luck searching the forums at iRV2.com/forums and/or posting your question there (they're free to join and post), as someone else with your make & model of AC and/or RV may have some experience. Hope you get this fixed... and FAST!
It looks like a great facility and trained staff. Unfortunately the 12% sales tax in BC is substantial compared to places like Oregon which don't have a sales tax. I guess that is the price you pay for staying in a beautiful location in Canada.
True. Hard to compete with zero-sales-tax states. At least the exchange rate gets you a 25% discount right now. 😊
Very interesting video. Are you aware of any similar company/service centers in the midwest?
Sorry Rick, but we rarely RV East of the Rockies, so no personal experience out there. The closest we know of doesn’t really fit the bill of being in the “Midwest” but we do have friends who have been going to Coach Care in Harrisburg, PA for years, and keep going back.
Hi guys! Great video! Can you tell me if the First centers have any age limits on RVs they'll take? I had another Freightliner truck repair facility tell me they will only service rigs 10 or less years old. As mine is a 2008, I'm getting nervous.
Hi Mark! We’ve never heard of anything like that, and since our rig is an 05, we’re guessing you’re in fine shape with an ‘08. Of course you can give them a call and speak to a service advisor about what services you’re looking for, and they obviously can tell you if there are any age related issues. But we doubt it.
Personally I’m very impatient but I’m being very patient for part two but just Out Of curiosity when is it coming?
Sorry to make you wait, Austin! We're already working hard on editing part two, which is more involved than part one. Currently slated (not promised, but looking good), for Wednesday, 5/16, nine days from today. Not to sound like I'm promoting anything, but our higher-level supporters on Patreon always get early access, usually three days before. So that's currently slated for next Sunday. Again, sorry for making you wait... but thanks for doing it!
Hey... No Problem! Very entertaining show you run!
Awesome videos as always! I'm excited for part 2!
Also how many miles are on your rig now?
Thanks! Just about to hit 70k.
Please I would like to know is having a diesel rv like a boat, everytime you take it out you have to repair something? We are looking at diesel because they hold their value but are we asking for a very expensive home to live in? thanks
Hi Melinda! Having three VERY close friends who own boats (one sailboat and two motorboats... all large enough to live aboard, and us having spent a week aboard two of those three), we feel we can safely say that owning an RV is NOT like owning a boat from the standpoint you mentioned. We have never once broken down or been left stranded in 15 years of full-timing. Our various little repair projects that crop up from time to time are typically no more challenging than re-stringing a window blind after the cord breaks, or adjusting basement door locks so they close correctly. Most of the work we've done is routine maintenance and upgrades/mods. That's not to say that things don't break, and we've had our share over the years. But we never get the feeling that "things are always breaking" and enjoy spending time USING our RV far more than spending time working on it. We did buy both our RVs new, so of course buying an older, used rig is much likelier to require more fixing of things. But our current RV is over 13 years old now, and because we take good care of it, it treats us well back and we don't find it a bottomless pit of need by any stretch. Your mileage may vary of course, but if you go in with the understanding that it is indeed an assembly of mechanical pieces that can, and at some point will, require some attention, you'll have a realistic and happy experience. Personally, after seeing the ridiculous amount of work, time and effort that our friends have to put into keeping things running on their boats, we wouldn't take one as a gift! 😉
That facility was spotless..until you two rocked up! :P I liked the name of the Coach next to you at the centre, The Berkshire? That's where I am here in the UK Berkshire, just west of London :D
We did make a mess, didn't we, Dan!? LOL They cleaned up after us, so it was all good. Berkshire sounds like a great place to be from. 😊
Berkshire is actually a pretty decent place to be. Hour from London, hour from the coast. Stunning countryside. Windsor Castle (royal residence) Ascot Racecourse. The White Horse, Naked Man. Berkshire Downs. Stonehenge not too far
We're sold. Might have to get floats for our rig. ;-)
cool
too bad they only work on diesels. Do you know of any good service centres in Vancouver'ish that works on the Ford F53 V10 RV chassis?
Ray... the told us when we were there that they will work on gas-powered chassis... so have you called them to ask?
@@RVgeeks I called the Abbotsford location yesterday and they said diesel only. But the girl who answered the phone didn't seem to sure of herself and didn't know what a F53 chassis was. Maybe I need to call back. Cheers guys and thanks!
How much did they charge.
Every one likes a clean new shop 👀
Hi Kevin! That shop sure was clean all right! We'll go over some of the details about cost in the post on our follow-up video.
Like the drone video allso
Can you say what the cost was and the interval?
We'll be going into some details about prices in the blog post that will go with Part Two. Stay tuned! :)
Can't help but wonder what first rate service on such a large scale costs these days ?
Hi Yoly! We'll be listing some pricing information in the post that goes with the second video.
What is the Gator aide bottle being used for? You can see it @3:45 mark. looks like it's been there a while.
Great spotting, Mike! Here's the secret behind it: ua-cam.com/video/9w12E68nseo/v-deo.html
Looks like a good quick fix. My back ground questions why the "breathe tube" is not routed back to the intake. (IE: Type 4 Positive Crankcase Ventilation systems) But, my exp is on smaller diesels, and gas powered stuff.
Sorry, we don’t know either! Those diesel mechanics have a lot of secrets up their sleeve. LOL
What was the cost of this maintenance?
We'll be sharing some specifics about costs in the post for Part Two. Stay tuned! 😊
30 quarts of oil should be a clue. 😃
the air dryer cartridge is changed every 2-4 years. not every service. Fleetguard fuel filters are nothing special BTW. Cummins just puts them on at the factory because they're cheap just like the green coolant.
Hey Greg! Those filters are probably cheap because they're Cummins's own brand! LOL And you're right about the air dryer, just like the coolant... not an annual task. Next year we'll be due for our transmission service! 😊
Would they service an F 450 Ford Diesel (with truck camper on)?
That's a great question, Rider, but one we're not sure of the answer on. If you'd like to call to find out, the number of the Abbotsford shop is (778) 752-0100. If you talk to Laura (she's the Service Advisor who helped us, both for real and in the video), please tell her we said Hi!
Thank you for the info. Keep having fun.
You shouldn't tighten an oil filter with a filter wrench! Just get it as tight as you can with your hand.
We agree... on a car, where we tighten only by hand. We asked the tech about that, too, and he said that with such a large filter in a challenging location to grasp it, he can get a much better feel for when it's correctly tightened by using a filter wrench. He specifically went back in with the "regular" style wrench, because he said the extended one he used to get it started has too much "stretch" to it, preventing him from accurately judging how secure it is. He really seemed to know his stuff, and we have a lot of confidence in what he did. 😊
Do y’all use DEF?
Our 2005 engine pre-dates DEF, so not needed. I think it came around in 2007 or 2010 (there were two different phases).
Ok thanks... our 04 Cross Country Didn’t... Safe Travels!
So isn’t it you guys try to do as much maintenance as you can on your rig?
We do indeed... most of the time. As we mentioned at the end of the video, Part Two will be all about which tasks we perform ourselves, which we leave to the pros, which can go either way, and how and why we make those decisions. Stay tuned!
RVgeeks can’t wait
Exactly! That will be a prime factor mentioned in the next video.
Prevost H3-45 that’s what I figured because the engine in a diesel pusher hold a LOT of oil
Why does the tag axle need to be lifted as well?
Different type of suspension that trucks... our wheels aren't supposed to hang from the suspension. We've seen videos showing buses up on this type of lift, and the tag axles hang WAY down, which isn't good for the suspension.
RVgeeks ah that makes sense. Your guys information is EXTREMELY helpful
RVgeeks I didn’t think of that and I thought that there was a lock for the tag axle so it can be locked in the raised position but I guess that would be too complicated.
Some tag axles do have lifting ability, but most (including ours) don't.
RVgeeks so by that do you mean that if your rig had the lifting ability it means that the rearmost axle can be raised and lowered independently of the other axles? This of course only applies to the rearmost axle.
Great video
Thanks Jeff! 😊