Our first RV Cat Scale & Walmart RV Overnight Parking | RV Living
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- Опубліковано 1 гру 2024
- After a long pack up and travel day, we run across a Cat Scale and weigh our Ford F350 diesel and 2022 Outdoors RV travel trailer. Our first overnight at a Wal-Mart turns out different than we thought.
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👫 ABOUT US➡ Hello! We are Aaron and Chris, a fulltime RV couple that lives and works in our Airstream Interstate Sprinter Van. We run an online fitness and nutrition coaching business (Irene Iron Fitness) while traveling all around the country. Follow along the journey with us!
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Back in here again. Heard you Chris. Happy you guys are safe. Made a mental note to weight right after buying. Thanks
Chuckled at the sports bra hanging off the cabinet handle. 😂
🤣 Yup, didn't even notice it till after recording! 😂
@@IreneIronTravels LOL you are at home and who amongst us here haven't done that! Great video this week!
🤣 thanks!
It's easy to see why Walmarts are restricting the overnight parking that had at one time been perfectly OK for anybody. When people start putting their slide outs out and awnings and leveling jacks then it looks like they're moving in. When some people get to the point of putting out their awnings lawn furniture barbecue grills and fully camping in the parking lot then that looks tacky and trampy. If anyone tried that in a rest area or other truckstop their crap would get run over and destroyed. It has happened. Proper etiquette in a Walmart Cracker Barrel Cabela's bass pro shop etc. is to pull in just before dark put it in park and go to bed. It's a port in a storm. You are not there to recreate and have a good time. And don't forget to go buy a cart full of whatever. The small number of trailer trash will ruin it for the rest of us the vast majority of nomads. Anyone running a generator should be shot.
Man, you nailed it!!! Also at rest areas, truck stops....no slide zone....PERIOD!!! Also stay 1/2 in your lane in front of you and behind...give semi's that park alongside of you room to swing in and then swing back out....will save you possible damage to your rig.
Says who? A lot of trailers aren't functional without slideouts. We never stay at Walmarts but we would extend our slide if we did.
You needed to weigh the truck by itself as well to determine how much the trailer weighs. A good portion (10-15% ideally) of the trailer weight will be on the truck whether you use a WDH or not. The WDH transfers some of the hitch weight from the rear truck axle to the front truck axle. It improves the handling, steering, and stability of the truck.
Walmart can be such a lifesaver, especially after a long day/night on the road….if they allow you to park there. Most of them outside of urban settings do. Unfortunately, the epidemic of homelessness has eroded away a lot of that hospitality with people running their generators and cooking in the parking lots.
Being able to hop into a real bed after long drive is truly a luxurious comfort. In that cold, I recommend a small thermostat controlled floor board type electric heater to keep the temperature even though the night, since you have such a large battery capacity. Thanks for sharing your first Walmart night!
Yeah they really are a nice option for a quick overnight. We used to prefer Cracker Barrel's in the van...but sometimes they are only near bigger cities. Good reco on the baseboard heater. We are getting close getting the solar on that will be so nice to recharge that big bank. Thanks for watching!!
When necessary, I always overnight at Cracker Barrels since Walmart is sketchy. Plus, you can get a reasonable, hot dinner or breakfast. 😉
We also prefer Crackerbarrel over Walmart! We have done probably 50 CB's in the van and it is a big difference for sure!
If not Cracker Barrel then truck stop for shower and food fuel
You guys are living the lifestyle of what the Gone With the Wynns couple were headed for when they decided to do sailing full-time. The changes/evolution to the RV world since then have been incredible.
A lot has changed! Can you believe its been about 10 years since they started RVing! We won't be jumping ship anytime soon!🤣
Monitor transmission temp not DEF quantity. Walmart is a parking lot not a campground. Park, go in the back to sleep and buy something from them. Don’t level, disconnect, put out awnings, etc. Open the slides ONLY if you have to in order to gain access. Taking advantage of Walmart is why so many of them aren’t letting us stay anymore.
Great advice! 👍
About 10-15% of the trailer’s weight rest on the hitch of the truck. You should have did a second weigh with just the truck and then you could have calculated the individual weights of both the truck and the trailer. Given your 1 ton truck a weight distribution hitch is not necessary with your light trailer. But you probably still want to use the WD hitch for the anti-sway components.
Two things I'd say, 1. Get your Harvest Host groove going again. We aren't "Walidockers", and choose either HH or a state park for over-night quick stops. Much more comfortable and quiet usually. 2. Ditch the sliding, stock thermostat and put in a digital one. Easy switch and works much better. Love the trailer and your adventures though.
☺ thanks Tina! We've been craving a good HH....it's been so long! Funny story on the t stat..... ours was supposed to come with a digital, but they were out so it shipped with the standard. On the list to change for sure!
me and my wife travel durning the summer as far as walmart camping we only let our slide out just to get around we dont fully extend it also we always stay connected to our truck we never disconnect...
The trailer transfers weight to the truck through tongue weight. The weight distribution pushed equal weight to the front tires on the truck instead of just pushing the rear of the truck down. It's similar to lifting the handles on a a wheel barrel. Hope that helps.
We often stay at that Walmart in Cortez on our way to Texas (from Utah) to visit family because it is just the right distance from our house if we leave Friday, mid-afternoon. There are lots of RV's, but they all seem to pass through. Never seen any long-termers. Never had a problem yet.
You should look into getting a trailer backup camera. You can get one from ford that will work with the camera system that is already built into your truck. They are like $300 that is the way I would go.
Heard a good tip is to use the bottom of the steering wheel instead of the top when you are backing up.
I look forward to your videos each week.
I’ve always felt safe at the Walmarts we’ve overnighted at but like Aaron, my husband barely tolerates them. I’m sad and frustrated to see people abuse Walmart’s generosity. They ruin it for everyone.
What is your plan for your tent?
I am also wondering about the tent. 😊
Thank you for watching them each week! 😁 Yes, Walmarts are a definite bonus for overnights and yeah it is sad to see how they are taken advantage of...... We will keep the tent for now and see how often we use it. But, the plan is to use it for "fun" instead of living in it like we did!
We will keep the tent for now and see how often we use it. But, the plan is to use it for "fun" instead of living in it like we did! 😁
It is supper critical you back with your mirrors DO NOT look in the center. The reason is you will need to back into a SMALL space somewhere, sometime. You will need to use your mirrors to do that.
Good point Dave, thanks!
Hey guys, the trailer has an unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) and a hitch weight. You'll find what the trailer weighed when it came off the assembly line at the factory on a sticker inside your storage compartment by the battery disconnect. The axle weight plus hitch weight is the UVW. If for example the UVW is 7500 and tongue weight is 500 then when you hookup to the truck it adds 500 to your truck and the axles will weigh 7000. The trailer still weighs 7500 but the truck is carrying 500 of it. When you use a distribution hitch it changes things a little bit. The easiest way to see how much is to scale the truck and trailer hooked together with and without the distribution bars connected while the axles are on separate scales. The distribution hitch acts like a bridge spanning between the truck and trailer so it takes weight off the drive axle and distributes it to the front axle on the truck and also to the trailer axles.
After weighing the truck and trailer together you should seperate the truck and trailer and then weigh just the trailer to get the trailer weight. Then with some math you can figure out the toungue weight and the weight of just the trailer and the weight of the truck.
@@tomodegaard6441 That's true however if your trying to find how the weight distributing hitch effects the axles you can use separate scales (Cat scales) for each axle. Hooking and unhooking the bars will give you that answer while on the scales.
Put ur hands on the bottom of steering wheel, using your mirrors u turn the wheel in the direction u want the trailer to go. Only use ur mirrors. Works every time, experts and beginners
Same thing when I used my mirrors. Complete back-up dyslexia ! And I remember those nights where you try to find the 'perfect spot' at Walmart. Ahhhh what memories !
It's not only me! 🤣😂
@@IreneIronTravels Nope it could be a guy thing !! ps. Now I am looking at Airstreams again. Great job you two !
Yessssss! Get one! Life's short and it you know it makes you happy. 😊
Using mirrors to back up is a real learning curve for some. You'll get it! Get in a parking lot where a pole won't jump out and hit you. Poles are sneaky. lol The way to learn. Use parking lot stripes to your advantage. or long street lines. If you back the trailer on the line. you will quickly see how easy it is to keep it straight. Remember less is more when it comes to turning your steering wheel. People over correct WAY too much. Backing a trailer is a skill you'll never regret! Ive had to backup multiple trailers for people that where struggling. Enjoy!
Good advice, thanks good 👍
The tongue weight of the trailer is carried by the truck. The weight distribution hitch helps distribute the load across *all* axles of the truck/trailer combination. Without a weight distribution hitch, the tongue weight of the trailer resting on the hitch ball of the truck provides a downward force which uses the moment arm from the hitch ball to the truck drive axle to lift the steering axle and uses the moment arm from the hitch ball to the front axle of the trailer to lift the rear axle of the trailer. Just visualize the Hulk stepping the hitch of a cartoon version of your trailer hitched to a cartoon version of your truck. Big green foot on the ground. On one side of the big green foot the buried truck hitch emerges ground, truck rear wheels are on the ground about to pop, and truck front wheels raised in the air. On the other side of the big green foot the buried tongue emerges from the ground, front trailer axle firmly on the ground, and the rear trailer axle raised off the ground.
The job of a weight distribution hitch is to distribute that weight so that neither trailer axle or truck axle is overloaded and to insure that the weight on the steering axle of the truck has not been reduced to a point where steering and braking effectiveness are reduced due to a loss of transaction. Weight distribution hitches accomplish this by forming a triangle, in your case - Starting at the attachment point of the chains on the trailer frame to the whale-tail on the bottom of the hitch ball shaft and then to the hitch ball and from the hitch ball back to the attachment point of the chains on the trailer frame. That triangle is acting as a gusset across the pivot point of the trailer frame and truck frame at the hitch ball so that the weight at the hitch is carried by the entire gusseted trailer-truck frame.
The tension on the Andersen chains determine how ridged the triangle is and the compression bushings on the chains provide the "give" to allow flexing.
Great explanation! Thanks David!
As mentioned earlier, you cannot get the total trailer weights while hitched to the truck. There is tongue weight that you're placing on the truck axle07261956mms. Also, you're not getting the loading on each of the trailer's 2 axles, only the total. The split isn't necessarily 50/50 between the 2 trailer axles. The best way to get the best data is with a scale beneath each tire. That also gives you the right and left side loadings to see if they're close or in one side is overloaded. I believe there are rv clubs that offer this weighing at various events.
One other note, the heavy bikes on the back of the trailer have a large impact due to the distance from the axles. This moment arm creates a high foot pounds loading, like a long wrench used to tighten large bolts, torque. This may be offset some by the weight of your lithium batteries towards the front of the trailer.
Hope this is helpful, best of luck!
Good info, thank you! A more accurate reading would help alot.
I had trouble at 1st backing with mirrors, now I can since I got my camper. I looked out the back like you do.
Great video guys! I really appreciate you sharing the numbers, meaning of each etc. I just went to my truck and wrote my numbers down. Aaron, I have less knowledge than you, so I plan to learn with you as you share the newbie travel trailer experience! Thanks again, enjoy, and be safe out there!😎
Thanks John! Always sooo much to learn in life......keeps us young right! 🤣 Appreciate you following along. Were you surprised by your numbers? How much is cargo capacity?
My cargo capacity is 1715, truck GVR 5285. My numbers are probably very similar to Adventurous Way...I think our trucks are very similar. Take care...
So much to figure out. Hope you get a few stationary days to decompress.
Thank you for showing the reality of it. How else will we know if we can cope or not? Good job
FYI the item hanging on cabinet door looks at first glance a DD brassiere, LOL!
🤣🤣 thanks! yeah, we didn't notice until after recording. It's just a sports bra hanging up to dry after run. 🏃♀️
Next time you weigh, weigh connected, then unhook and weigh the truck without the trailer. Then you will have all the numbers you need.
"Sketchy Walmart" -lol! So true.
you are correct the hitch you are using transfers some of the trailer weight to your truck... Nice job. stay safe and happy travels s
Thanks 👍. It was interesting to see on the scale!
Hmmm, yeah it would be interesting to weigh them separate, then with just the ball hitch, and then with the WHD to see the differences.
Aaron, your weights look good, however it is still important to keep the hitch weight at 10-15% of the trailer GW. You may have to much weight aft with the relocation of the batteries and ebikes.
Good point, thank you!
Good informative video. You are my source of info on the Outdoor RV. Looking at same trailer and was interested in the Cat Scale info in particular. I have a Ram 2500 diesel with a GVWR of 10,000. Having weighed my truck with my normal stuff I weigh 8600 lbs. So I have around 1400 lbs. left for payload. You have yours loaded up with much more cool stuff than I would do (your tent has to be fairly heavy in itself) . Still interested in hitch weight, as this goes against Payload. Thinking I will be close but ok. Again thanks for your videos. All entertaining and informative. Gary
Nice vid guys. Suggestion for transporting Berkeley. 5 gal. Home Depot bucket, fits perfect
Great suggestion! Haven't heard that before, but makes sense...and could catch any water that might spill out!
We always park with the entrance door facing into the parking lot or facing the front of the store. That is how we feel safer.
You guys will get the hang of everything. Just in the learning curve right now.
Thanks Garret! 😊 yeah, this was the end of our first travel day! So many new things. A month later now....we have learned so much. And just getting comfortable with it all now.
your weights are just what you would expect. Remember the trailer weight from the CAT scale doesn't show the tongue weight. That will show up on the truck.
Your sort of disorientation while backing up a trailer is quite common.
Here are a few helpful tips I’ve used for over 30 years that also appear in Ford’s 2022 RV and Trailer Towing Guide (tip number 2 is especially helpful):
1. Back up slowly, with someone spotting near the rear of the trailer to guide you
2. Place one hand at bottom of steering wheel and move it in the direction you want the trailer to go
3. Make small steering inputs - slight movement of steering wheel results in much greater movement in rear of trailer
And one from me: Practice with traffic cones in an unoccupied parking lot will help build your skills in a more relaxed environment.
Good luck!
Good tips, thanks for sharing those! It really does help to practice and being full time it speeds things up. I could only image how long it could take if you only tow a couple times a year!
When backing up try holding the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand and look in the mirror. No turn your hand whichever way you want the back of the trailer to go.
Thanks! A lot of people are starting to give that advice...it must work!!
I have that same hitch and it is great. You have to remember that a weight distribution hitch distributes the total weight of the trailer, including cargo, fuel and anything else in the truck, to the vehicle’s and trailer’s axles, relieving the vehicle’s bumper for increased safety and maneuverability. For the Andersen, if you are feeling "floaty", you will probably have to increase the number of threads exposed at the back of the red bushings by at lease 1. It's a great hitch and it actually took me about 9 months to finally find the sweet spot for our trailer.
Thanks for sharing your experience with it...appreciate it!
Very, very well done. Learning curve struggles helps everyone. You are making everyone at home. To find an rv with great insulation and made for 4 season, makes it nice when an unexpected 23degrees shows up unexpectedly. Glad you brought out how it worked with cold snap at Walmart.
I have yet to do the Cat Scale thing but want and need to. As far as gas mileage, because of cost I am holding off on the pedal and seeing an increase of roughly 40% increase in MPG. Staying close to 55 MPH and not hammering the uphills just to maintain a speed.
We did CAT Scales too but I highly recommend a Smart Weigh with Escapees (we did the Congress, AZ location). It was worth the extra money for the peace of mind. They weigh the trailer alone and with the truck. They weigh each tire so you can see if you’re balanced. The answer surprised us. It also showed that the front axle of our truck was riding light so we ended up tightening up the Anderson some more and it helped. What a learning process, huh?
Oh, yeah I've heard of that! Maybe I saw it in the magazine?? That would be fun to see.. It is a learning process for sure...and sooo good to know!
Have pic of my wife standing on four corners from 3 years ago
Part of a 5000. Mile loop from California to Columbia Missouri
Nice memory!
Wow that was a fast video !!! Interesting and exciting to listen to!!! Thank you for sharing this video with me!! BS & BK
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks Larry! BS & BK!😄
Drove semi's for twenty years, 2 Million miles which included doing city work. Perfectly normal not to use your mirrors....remember the mirrors in the fun houses? LOL...They can and do distort. I still use to stick my head out the window to watch the trailer going backwards....BUT not so much when I had decent docks with lines or other trailers on the sides.....I was a master at blind sides :)....never bumped another trailer......this included busy freight terminals at airports and underground warehouses (caves) You are doing great....the more you do it.....it will be 2nd nature for you......love your trailer, your channel, you guys! Stay safe!!!
That is a lot of miles in a semi! The things you've probably seen! Appreciate the support Richard, thanks for watching!
@@IreneIronTravels You are very welcome.
I ran Ford Motor production parts. They keep a very low inventory at the plants. They have a "rolling inventory" enroute to keep the production lines going. Early (not for long....thank Heaven) I ran team which we would typically did 5K-6K miles a week....I have the spinal stenosis and scoliosis to prove it LoL.
After that, a strange turn of events at a little over 40 "I switched lanes" and graduated from my States Sheriffs Training Academy. Road Deputy, usually did 150-200 miles daily.....I had a huge County. Finally a Stroke and then a heart attack put me out to pasture after 17 years.
You guys are doing great!!!! Love your choice of trailer. I love the O.R.V's, Nash's, Arctic Fox. Ron Nash really knew how to build a great product!
The truck you purchased is more than capable of towing the trailer you purchased . Just hook up and enjoy I’ve seen your truck hauling 40’ fifth wheel trailers.
Definitely learn to back up with your mirrors. No slides or generators in businesses parking lots. The reason so many businesses quit allowing RV over night parking.
Totally normal! I still have trouble looking in the mirrors!
We enjoy watching your videos. Cracker Barrel is a great option for boondocking.
When backing up a trailer, Hand at the bottom of the steering wheel, hand moves right trailer rear moves right, hand to left goes left.
Leveling jacks, for an overnight, only use them to take the sway out. If you still hooked up don't use auto leveling you damage the jacks.
👍👍 Thanks David!
I’m kinda new at backing my camper and I do find it easier not to use mirrors
👍👍
Hi guys. interesting video again. Indeed, kind of heavy those ORV units - we have noticed, hence the reason why we are going to a 3500 Series truck - like you said it so well, "we don't want to always be near the limit" i.e. in our case: bring what ever you want on our trips! Glad to see the insulation working out! Great test :-) Safe driving! Remi (Canada)
Always enjoy your videos. I am like Aaron, I want to know how everything works. So... WDH distributes tongue weight to the steering axle and to the trailer axle pair.
Technically you should have made 3 passes on the scales: 1) truck only 2) truck with trailer without WDH tension on 3) #2 but with proper adjustment of WDH. The actual WDH hardware is not tongue weight, but is cargo weight. With your 1 ton, all this really doesn't matter much. Unless you run the "danger" of overloading the trailer.
Thanks Clint! Yes, we still need to do a more accurate weighing... good suggestion on doing the 3 passes. Your right..I wasn't too concerned as we have the 1ton diesel beast!😁
Enjoyed your video Safe Journeys
Great video guys. Can't wait to see what you guys get up to next week.
😊 Thanks Daysha!
Using mirrors. Three Ts. Turn towards trouble.
Huh....hadn't''t heard that one. Thanks!
4 Corners is a pretty neat place! Did you hike up the trail and checkout the view of the river?? Cool place. lotsa wild mustang's and Mule deer in that valley.
Love the new rig. On your fuel mileage....
Simple physics. 55MPH will get you optimum best mpg. For every mph above 55 you will sacrifice mpgs. You're conundrum is time or money? More speed = less travel time by just a little bit.
Less speed = less wear n tear on everything. Less friction on tires= cooler tires longer life. In my big rig I would usually get 6.5-6.8mpg at 55-62mph pulling a 53ft van or box trailer. From 62-65mph it would drop to 5.8-6mpgs
Doesn't sound like much until you run the numbers at 2700-3600 miles a week 46 weeks a year. Substantial savings to keep your speed down , onto of less wear n tear. .. Imo 40+ years and 4.5 million miles out on the concrete seas of this big beautiful nation.
Stay safe guys ! Really enjoy your escapades!
We only had a short time to check it out and didn't even realize it was on our route! That's cool there is a hike there as well...next time! Good advice on keeping the speed down for sure! I really don't like towing above 65mph.......we're in no hurry! Thanks Greg!
Nice to see a video pop up, safe travels.
Thanks 👍
I have been considering the same travel trailer as yours. I'd be interested in hearing what your final tongue weight is with all your belongings moved in, the new batteries, and some water in the tanks. I have a well equipped Ram 1500 but my total cargo capacity is around 1,600 lbs. I'm figuring 1,000 lbs or less for tongue weight keeps me in the safe zone with two people plus some light cargo.
Hello! We don't have the actual tongue weight and still need to get re weighed without being hooked up to the truck to get the actual trailer weight. I'm guessing we are around 8500-9000lbs. I've heard ORV's are "tongue heavy" and are closer to the 15% of the total weight. Our lounge weight might be pushing 1200lbs.......
Hi Chris and Aaron ! Hoooolllyyyy mooley, this is some great info! Yes...I've towed trailers with weight distribution hitches before, but I never knew stuff about the weights of the tow vehicle or trailer. I just cranked on the wdh until our truck didn't sag in the back (probably not the preferred technique hehehehe). I am driving the Godzilla to the airport tomorrow to head to work. When I get back, I'll stop by the weigh scales in Montrose, which fortunately is next to the airport, to get a decent "empty truck" reference. I say "empty", but it will be myself and mostly full fuel tank and my suitcase. I guess that will be a good front and rear axle weight reference. Yes...I could do that with the trailer too when we pull it through Montrose. But, I know that will just be a reference weight as I'll be skewing it with a solar system and tons of stuff.
I have no clue how to decipher your weight ticket from the CAT scale when you are connected with your trailer and the weight distribution hitch is cinched down.
So, did you go on the million dollar highway through Durango, and on to Cortez? Or, you took Lizard Head Pass south of Telluride down into Cortez?
I'll be sending a note to Dean on Tuesday to schedule the trailer pick up the week after Thanksgiving!! Exciting times. We will definitely take heed to your recommendation and head there the night before so as to be not as tight on time. That construction on Hwy 50 is supposed to go to the end of 2022; so it will be ever present for another year.
Have a great week and thank you very much for sharing your towing experience!
Oh....my Weigh Safe hitch arrived last week. My only comment so far is.......drum roll.....it is pretty heavy! I'll let you know how it tows once we do that! My gut feeling is that it will do well as I can't see how it won't when you are adjusting the tension every time you use it with real world weights.......not some old weights that vary every pulling session.
Safe travels!
Hey Alan! Good idea to get your truck weighed now and also your trailer when you first get it! We took lizard pass and it was a beautiful drive! Excited to hear your RV is getting closer to pick up day!
@@IreneIronTravels Hi there!! Well....my flight was cancelled, which opened time to get the truck weighed. With just me in it, it was 7660lbs with a mostly full fuel tank. The GVWR is 11900 (that gvwr came from the 4.30 gearing). So, it definitely has a decent CCC. The yellow sticker is 4288lbs. That is the benefit of a gasser over a diesel.
Yes!! The day is drawing nearer! I requested either the 1st or 2nd of Dec with Dean; waiting on that feedback.
Nice! Good numbers on your truck....plenty of room!
Holy cow! 12.7mpg??!! We have the Backcountry 24RKS we pull with a 2021 gmc 3500 duramax. I dont think we've ever broke 10mpg for longer than 50 miles. We drive 65 - 70 and usually average 8-9mpg. What was your average speed? I'm amazed. Good for you guys, that's awesome.
That was probably a slower speed going through Colorado.....maybe closer to 55mph. But, we did drive a longer freeway route doing more of the 65-70 and got about 11.5 mpgs. Hmmmmm...yeah I would think the 6.6 and the 6.7 would get similar mpgs......
@@IreneIronTravels Over here in the UK, Caravans[Travel Trailer] are allowed a maximum of 60mph on Motorways and Dual Carriageways and on single carriageways[bidirectional] 50mph.
That's probably a smart thing! Over here people with big 42 foot rv's will buzz past at 75mph too often.
@@IreneIronTravelsThe maximum speed permitted for any vehicle in the UK is NEVER more than 70 mph! Here are our speed limits for all Motor homes:
National speed limits
Single carriageways mph Dual carriageways mph Motorways mph
max unladen weight 6724 lbs 60 70 70
> 6724 lbs max unladen weight 50 60 70
Sorry about the weird formatting, lol
YAY, you visited Four Corners! Been there a few times. Love the videos.
We had no idea we were driving right past it! Pretty to cool to see for sure. Thanks for watching! 😊
Come’On Christine, Not listening and assisting your Husband do Math is grounds for Divorce in some Southern States. I agree with Not having the Slides out in the Walmart parking lot. The Lot is for a quick Layover Not a Longterm stay. Have you considered installing a Rear view Camera on the back of the Trailer to assist with reversing and alignment.
🤣🤣😂 She's getting good at tuning me out! We do have a back up camera on the trailer. ...it really does help with a lot. Especially when knowing if a vehicle has cleared the back of the trailer while turning lanes. Still getting used to everything.... so many places to look with the two cameras, mirrors, and wanting to turn my head!
Lol I'm the same way when backing up. Absolutely normal. The mirrors requires training. Example Tractor drivers have no choice. The eye & mind have to be trained. Your best bet is an open parking lot with some cones and then test yourself with the real thing. I have been backing up boats for sometime now here in Miami, Fla and yet never trained myself. Now having small TT 22.5 ft total will have to train.
Fifth wheels back differently than bumper pulls
@@johnphillips8088 I'v towed various 5th wheels. Out of the Florida Keys; with Hurricane warnings. And they tow great and backing up i feel is easier but still requires practice.
@@jesserevilla992 a 5th wheel is far superior in cross winds, while it May take some practice backing for the beginners. 5th wheels are also much better for towing as they don’t whip like bumper pulls. Just a better system, that’s why semi truck are so popular. I as well have had experience with both, and would much prefer the 5th wheel configuration as far as towing. Really think we are on the same page...
You should then disconnect the trailer and weigh just the truck.
Make sure you unhook from your truck before auto-leveling the rig.
Yes, good point! So many new concepts for us..... I thought more about that when we arrived later that night and said to my self....we can't auto level because we are hooked to the truck!
It is normal, we all go though it just ask away if you have questions because you don't want to make a regrettable and costly mistake. We are a community here to help all the time.
16:38 Great smile.
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What was the mpg on your motorhome? Can you install a backup camera on the back of your rig? It would be easier to reverse.
We got about 16mpg average in the van....pretty good! We do have have two back up cameras on our current setup. One on the truck showing the hitch and one on the back of the trailer. They do help a ton!
@@IreneIronTravels I suppose the van was more aerodynamic and also had a less thirsty engine.
Question: my truck has a gvwr of 9000, but my front axle is 5200 and rear axle is 6010. Does this mean I can go over 9000 since combined axles would be 11,210? If not, what is the point of that much axle rating?
That is interesting your truck has those ratings. I'm guessing you have a 3/4 or 2500 and they sometimes derate those to stay within certain numbers. Or it could be your truck had a HD or snowplow package that increased the axles. So..... your truck may be able to technically handle the extra weight, but it would not pass a dot inspection. This is actual a large debate on the internet and one of the reasons we went with a 1 ton, so everything is nice and legal. Hope that helps!
I got good at backing up our travel trailer by using the RV back up camera then having my husband walk behind the RV and "point" his arms in the direction the trailer needs to go. . .then I say out loud to myself, "I need to go left so turn the wheel to the right!" and then also keep my eyes on the truck back up camera to make sure I don't jackknife and if I'm about to, immediately turn the wheel in the opposite direction to get "under it again" then proceed to turn the wheel and trailer in the desired location again. I'm a pro at it now! Don't really need my hubby to direct me anymore :o)
Nice, you rock it Patty! 😊 I'll keep practicing !! 😂
The other weight number that manufacturers use that is total malarkey is the tongue weight.....total BS!!! You can probably add another 1/3 to their figure if not more. Their Hitch Weight is without LP tanks, batteries. Then when you're loaded, your fresh water, and items in the front pass through and possessions in your front area in the trailer takes that advertised hitch weight out the window. Every dealer should have a tongue scale to give their clients a true weight. What a industry!!!
Nice and educational video.
☺ thanks for watching!
Interesting video. As a bit of an aside, do you carry your own air compressor for tire maintenance and if so what brand do you use. Thanks.
Thanks 😊. We just have a small 65 psi for the bikes and emergency on the truck. We will be looking into a Viair for the trailer. They are spendy, but seem to be the gold standard for hi psi trailer and motohome tires.
@@IreneIronTravels Yes, I agree and am shopping Viair models right now. ARB make them too but really think the Viair is a better deal and has a great reputation among trailer/camper haulers.
It is called practice, the more you do it the better you, 50 years practice
Hi guys, I wanted to ask about your tremor. we are considering this truck to pull our camper full time. Any feedback would be appreciated. thanks
Hello! We love it! I think it's a prefect truck for rving for almost any rig besides the giant heavy 5th wheels. Love the diesel for full time towing, but the 7.3 gas I hear does a great job. Only option we wish we had is the 360 cameras, especially for the front. It is a big truck! Downsides...... expensive...and hard to find! I can't image you wouldn't like one.
Guess its a normal part of the Honeymoon Phase with your New Rig. Why is your Truck Nav Head unit & Instrument lights Flickering? excited to see your New Adventures in your Rig. Stay Safe.
I can answer that one- the camera shutter captures frames per second and the LED lights are at a frequency that isn’t in sync with the camera. It’s common problem that can be fixed with adjusting the FPS or camera shutter speed. It takes some trial and error to get it set right.
Yes! Still using my camera in auto mode! 😕 We did just get the Sony A7c though and are really liking a full frame camera! Lots to learn....
Yes, exactly! You'll notice on our headlights as well during driving shots. 😁
When are you going to jettison the tent ?
Not sure! We have used it once so far after getting the RV, but we definitely needed a break from it!😂 We'll see how it continues to go!
Your not the only one who doesn't like Walmart
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I totally get dyslexic looking in the rear views. My brain is like wait turn left to go right ? 🙃🙃🙃🙃
Are you going to sell your tent? I feel like the resistance from that being in between truck and trailer might cause gas mileage to go down?
😂🤣 Yessss! It is tricky! 😵💫
Too bad Walmart doesn't install showers and a cafeteria, even tho some of them have fast food joints within the store.
I'm sure those would be popular!
What temp was it before you went to bed? ie. How much temp drop did you have through the night?
The temps were in the high 60's that day so it was probably in the low 60's by night. I had the t stat set to 55 and it didn't turn on and was 41 outside when I woke up(only screen shot I took).....so it seemed to not drop much inside. We've been down to the 30's and it is a bit chilly in the morning if we don't turn the heat on. We've also had the trailer in the mid 90's and the AC cycles on and off very nicely when set at around 75 in the RV park. While boondocking in the mid 80's and full sun it was pretty good, but a bit uncomfortably warm from about 3pm-4:30pm. Looking forward to running the AC for an hour during that time to cool off when we get solar. Very happy with the insulation so far...... the van was a metal box with a lot of glass.....so anything above the 80's was pretty tough. The AC would not cycle much at all.
@@IreneIronTravels You two have been a positive influence on us. We put in an order for a 26KVS a few weeks ago. Construction doesn't start until sometime in March, but I'm sure it will be worth the wait. Thanks for the reply. We love you channel!
Oh, nice congrats on the order! Love the kitchen view models.......so nice! Appreciate you guys watching!
You two are tooo cute. Love watching ya'll
😊 Thank you for watching!
I'v visited your website and reading your stories.etc.. trying to figure who Irene is. 🤔😖☺️
🤣 Yeah we don't talk about it much! It's Chris's middle name and her Gma's name. Christine Irene! 🙋🏻♀️
@@IreneIronTravels very cool . Thanks. I didn't want to pry, but now it won't eat at my brain.
Are you still heading for California? We have the Shadow Cruiser 225RBS with the exact same foor plan as yours and pulling with 2020 1/2 ton GMC with Duramax. Would like to meet up with you. We are in Northern California. I am enjoying your videos. You can see us at Terry and Sondra Christofferson. An "amature" site on youtube lol. Safe Travels!
We won't quite make it to northern cali this winter......might go up the coast in the fall but not sure on travel plans. Appreciate you watching!
Smart to be learning this stuff..some over eager law officer can really ruin your day with fines. Remember this. You can be overall under weight, yet not legal. Your individual axle weight is what they'll look at. You'll learn this, and your brilliant to get it figured out.....loading your rig properly so each axle isn't in violation...is very important....
Pretty soon this will be second nature to .
A simple, exaggerated example. You might weigh your entire truck and trailer on a scale and find out...oh boy we're 2000 lbs under weight. So you gather up 2000 lbs of more stuff and throw it in the bed of your pickup. Happily thinking your safe. However you just put your truck axles over the legal limit....oh goody..we just got a 1500 dollar ticket......or whatever.
Sorry for rambling..it's hard to text this stuff.....but, you get the jist......have fun guys !
Thanks for the thoughts...you're right! It is nice to just be aware of it as it is a bit overwhelming at first. We are sooooo happy with the 1 ton and not having to "pinch the pounds". It will be fun to weigh again in 6 months to see how it changes....
Well the parking lots of Walmart are handy overnight if you want to buy drugs or watch cars get prowled.
I always enjoy your videos and it's been fun to watch you transition to towing a trailer. If you really want to know what's going on with your weights you need to weigh both the complete rig (like you did) and the tow vehicle by itself at the same time. The CAT scale I have used has a special rate for doing both weights so it doesn't cost twice as much. Then you can calculate how much of the trailer weight has been transferred onto each tow vehicle axle, and add that total to the trailer axle weight to get the trailer's actual GVW. I have found that my tow-vehicle-only axle weights (with a full tank of fuel) don't change much, so now I usually only weigh the complete rig and then re-use my "baseline" tow-vehicle-only axle weights. I only do this if I'm confident that my tow vehicle is close to the baseline configuration that was weighed and my complete rig weights have a reasonable margin.
Thanks for the advice Jim that makes sense, appreciate it! And thanks for watching!
Love watching you guys, but the weight stuff was driving me crazy. Way too many unnecessary and erroneous calculations. Might I suggest that you look into some of the other weighing videos, like KYD, to get a better handle on what's going on.
Just a nudging suggestion guys....when at Walmart or the like...don't put your slide out, or level up.....
This is not a order....lolol
Just passing on some experienced wisdom
Great advice! I don't think we will ever have a need to put the slide out. We are usually in late and out early! We put the level feet down (with pads) just to stabilize...but didn't level. Appreciate the non order! 🤣
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We have stayed at Wal-Mart. Sometimes it is great and sometimes, well, you wish you had traveled more down the road. I don't think people should bring out their slides, leave their trash, and run the generators...not respectful to Wal-Mart.
Very true Joyce! 😊
Just remember that some rigs require a slide to be out to get to the bed or bathroom. Those rigs need to park where the slide won't interfere with the spots beside them.
I've had to do that.
You guys think awfully hard, but may also be less prone to costly mistakes over time.
😊 Yeah..thats mostly, my (Aaron) brain. It doesn't stop thinking about things....lots of "why's and how's" going on up there. 😂 Blessing and a curse!
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Same day! What a great time to leave🤣😂🤣
Sorry guys, gotta unsubscribe. Your just living in a condo on wheels now. Not much of a challenge. Get your class B back. That’s why we subscribed. It was fun.
Totally understand and appreciate you following our van adventures.
Im with you on Walmart, not a fan, I much prefer Cracker Barrel, Cabela's, Bass Pro, Lowe's, Home Depot, ect. Regarding Slides, we run ours out, because we need to, to access the back bedroom (bunk house) we have always asked, and have never had push back about sides, ore even generators, Semi's run all night in the parking lots, so as long as you are respectful and shut it down after 9 or 10 PM its not a problem in most places.