2 Year Update On Our 2022 Keystone Montana 3931FB

2 Year Update On Our 2022 Keystone Montana 3931FB


2 Year Update On Our 2022 Keystone Montana 3931FB

by Jerry Neal | Mar 16, 2024

2 Year Update On Our 2022 Keystone Montana 3931FB.
It’s been great!

We bought our new Keystone Montana 3931FB 5th wheel in February 2022. Since that time, we are asked by many how we like the 5th wheel and if we’ve had any issues since purchase. After 2 years of ownership and towing thousands of mile, we wanted to give you an up date on the likes and dislikes, the couple of problems we’ve experience, and share some of the modifications to add to our long term travel needs.

See the video below where Joan and I share our experience in our Keystone Montana 3931FB 5th wheel. We have also provided links below to view videos of the projects we shared.

montana 2 year update

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: 2 Year Update On Our 2022 Keystone Montana 3931FB

Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery – Did it survive the cold

Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery – Did it survive the cold


Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery – Did it survive the cold

by Jerry Neal | Mar 9, 2024

Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery – Did it survive the cold?

We reviewed the Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery back in November 2023. Since that time, it has been our primary 12V battery source and it performed well over several weeks of travel in December into January. During the November evaluation, I shared that we would not be traveling for most of the colder months and I planned to leave both the solar charger and 75 amp converter/charger connected to maintain the battery. Epoch stated the 300ah V2 battery had low temperature disconnect and it was heated for temperatures below 32 degrees. Without these features, any charging that may have occurred during temperatures below 32F would have damaged, or worse, destroyed the battery. For a number of weeks in January and early February, we experienced extended periods with temperatures in the teens and 20s. Now as we prepare for our 2024 travel season, it was time to see of the Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery survived the cold.

Multi-day Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Testing

Over two days, we put the Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery to the test in our Montana 5th wheel continuously powering a large GE residential refrigerator, lights, TV, and slides, and we also put a large load on the inverter making toast and coffee.

Throughout the evaluation period, we used the iOS Epoch LI-Ion Bluetooth app for iPhones and our Victron Smart Shunt to monitor the performance of the battery. As a check and balance between both monitoring platforms, we found the reporting to be within a percentage point of remaining capacity and available voltage.

Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery Cold Test Results

With the battery at full charge, we started testing the Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery. During both days of use, we had misty rain and they sky was heavily overcast. I disconnected the 5th wheel from the 50A pedestal, and left the solar charger connected. On day 1 we had no input and day 2 we had about 2 to 3 hours where the solar charger provided less than 50 watts. After 30 hours of testing, we had 40 percent left in the battery.

With the battery experiencing heavily load conditions and the continuous power demand from all the appliances, lights, and the residential refrigerator, we can share with confidence, the battery low temperature and heater features worked as designed during those cold winter weeks.

With the battery’s heavy duty construction, metal case, low temperature disconnect, internal heating, 11 year warranty, and much more, this is a perfect solution for our 12V power needs.

See our video below for the highlights from the two days of testing and the real time battery performance.

Out thanks to Epoch for supplying iLoveRVlife with the Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery for our testing. We have provided helpful links below if you’re interested in learning more about the Epoch LifePO4 product line.

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Specifications

  • LiFePO4 Chemistry – Deep Cycle Battery
  • Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah HEATED – Internal heating allows for charging in sub-zero conditions

  • BLUETOOTH – iOS and Android Apps
  • Built-in Smart Battery Management System (BMS)
  • Over charge and over discharge protection
  • Over current and short circuit protection
  • High & low temperature disconnects
  • Max (4) in Series up to 48V @ 300Ah
  • Max (4) in Parallel up to 12V @ 1,200Ah
  • 4,000+ Cycle life & Maintenance-free
  • UL1973, UL1642, IEC 62133, UN38.3
  • 11 Year Manufacturer Warranty
  • Weight: 72 (LBS)
  • Dimensions: 8.1 x 11.1 x 15.4 (inches)
  • Ah Capacity: 300Ah
  • Max Continuous Discharge Amps: 300A
  • Max Charge Current Amps: 300A
  • Max Discharge Peak Current Amps: 900A (3 Seconds)
  • Max (4) in Series, Max (4) in Parallel – 4S4P

VOLTAGE

  • Voltage: 12.8V
  • Max Charge Voltage: 14.6V
  • Operating Voltage Range: 10.0 – 14.6V

Epoch 300ah v2 lifepo4 battery

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Epoch 300ah V2 LifePO4 Battery – Did it survive the cold

HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike – Great RV Travel Addition

HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike – Great RV Travel Addition


HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike – Great RV Travel Addition

by Jerry Neal | Feb 24, 2024

HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike – Great RV Travel Addition

We have evaluated a number of ebikes over the past 18 months with the thought of what works best for the RV traveler. All the ebikes have been been folding with 20 inch tires to ease transport. We had a number of YouTube viewers and emails from our iLoverRVlife.com contact page asking us to review a larger frame, adults sized bike. To meet the request, we contacted HOVSCO who provided ebikes for our review last year, and they provided their HOVSCO HovRanger 27.5″ Electric Bike For Adults.

The HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike

The HOVSCO HovRanger ebike is recommended as adult sized for those who’s height range from 5’ 1” to 6’ 7” and a weight not exceeding 300lbs. The HovRanger is loaded with features including:

  • Single-Butted Aluminum Alloy with Internal Battery
  • Weight 55lbs with battery installed
  • 970W (Peak) 500W (Sustained), 48V Brushless Rear Hub Motor
  • Removable Internal Lithium-ion 48V, 15Ah (720Wh)
  • LCD Smart Easy Read Display with Back-light screen with app
  • 7 Speed – rear derailleur
  • Hydraulic Disc Brakes with 180mm Rotors
  • Max speed of 28 mph
  • Average range of 40-60 miles per charge depending on terrain and riding style

But what really makes the HovRanger Ebike and all of the other HOVSCO ebikes standout is their Torque Sensor. The ebike has 5 peddle assist modes. While peddling, the HOVSCO Torque Sensor feature automatically senses the need to assist, providing power to the rear wheel.

Regardless of terrain, the HOVSCO Torque Sensor makes riding the ebike a breeze. Aside from the added power assist when peddling, we like the ebike controller response. Torque assist is applied when the controller senses peddling and stops assisting when peddling has ended. We have have evaluated other ebikes and found a substantial lag in response where the controller continues for 1 to 2 seconds providing power to the rear motor after peddling has stopped. This is not the case with the well designed HOVSCO Torque Sensor.

Riding the HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike

We took the HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike to Amerson River Park located in Middle Georgia. This is a beautiful park with wooded and river views, and friendly to ebikes. Our granddaughter Jaymi Kate joined me and we spent the afternoon riding the trails.

Both Jaymi and I took turns riding the HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike. We found the ebike to be very comfortable and enjoyed the longer stride from seat to peddle, along with the excellent HOVSCO Torque Sensor feature. Riding the ebike was effortless, allowing us to extend our day in the park with little fatigue.

The controls for breaking, shifting gears, and changing the peddle assist mode are easy to access while riding. The breaks are hydraulic and take little hand strength to operate. When addressing a hill, the mode change to add more power to the HOVSCO Torque Sensor is a simple reach with the thumb.

See the video below to view our ride and evaluation of the HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike.

Conclusion

We like the fact that all HOVSCO ebikes come with free shipping from their US based warehouse. Each ebike comes with a 2-year warranty and they partner with over 100 dealers and storefronts to offer Test Ride and Maintenance Service.

They also have other models, and at the release date of this blog, offer the Entry-Level HovCity Ebike for $999 or 2 HovCity ebikes at $1499.

The HOVSCO line of ebikes is one of our favorites. From construction to features, the HOVSCO HovRanger 27.5” Ebike is a joy to ride. This is why we believe this ebike is a great RV travel addition.

We have provided help links below the video for more information about HOVSCO ebikes along with a link and code to save an addition $100 off your purchase.

Out thanks to HOVSCO for proving the HOVSCO™ HovRanger 27.5″ Electric Bike for our review.

Helpful Links:

Hovsco HovRanger E-Bike ($100 OFF: Use Code “Jerry”): https://www.hovsco.com/ILoveRVLifeJerry

Limited-Time Offer in Feb 2024: $999 for single HovCity Ebike, $1499 for two HovCity Ebikes (Auto-Code at Cart)

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: HOVSCO HovRanger Ebike – Great RV Travel Addition

Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station – Powering Our 5th Wheel Off Grid

Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station – Powering Our 5th Wheel Off Grid


Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station – Powering Our 5th Wheel Off Grid

by Jerry Neal | Feb 10, 2024

Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station – Powering Our 5th Wheel Off-Grid

The evolution of portable power stations continue to show substantial advances in features and function while decreasing costs for watt hour performance. At iLoveRVlife, we have used a wide variety of portable power stations for a number of years and are excited to see the manufacturers create units that work very well for RV travel. We have been looking at portable power stations that have increased watt hours, higher capacity pure sine wave inverters, and the ever important, 30 amp RV style power connector. We tested the new Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station and found its features and performance to be a perfect fit for our RV lifestyle.

The Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station

As we consider portable power stations, we are looking for those that will operate all of our RV 120V AC devices and appliances for an extended period of time. The Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station does that with 15 ports supporting USB, 12V and both 20 Amp and 30 Amp 120V receptacles. With the equipped 2048Wh of battery capacity, we are able to make our overnight Harvest Host stops without the need of a gas power generator, powering our GE residential refrigerator, microwave for a quick meal, watch TV, charge our portable devices, and watch a few hours of TV before we call it a night and resume travel the next morning.

For longer stays, the Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station can support up to 2,100 Watts of solar input using either fix or portable solar panels. With this increase solar capability, we are able to replace power used during the day with excess solar capacity recharging the unit for evening use.

Oupes MEGA 2 with B2 Multi-functional BatteryWe also like the ability to expand the watt hour capacity of the unit with the addition of one or more B2 Multi-functional Batteries each adding 2,100Wh with the ability to increase the MEGA 2 to a total of 10,240Wh of capacity. This gives that extra capacity for longer periods operating higher wattage appliances and storing power when solar production may be degraded due to weather conditions.

We put the Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station to the test. View the video below to see the full testing over 3 days using a wide range RV appliances and solar charging.

The Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station Features

Battery

  • Capacity – 2048Wh
  • Battery Chemistry – LFP(LiFePO4)
  • Cycle Life – 3,500+ cycles to 80% capacity
  • UPS – ≤20ms

Output

  • AC Output – 4X120V/2500W
  • DC Output 0 2X5.5mm DC Output 12V/10A
  • USB-A – 4 X QC3.0 18W Max
  • USB-C – 5V/3A:9V/3A:12V/3A:15V/3A:20V/5A (100W Max)
  • AC TT-30 Output – 120V/2500W
  • Car Output – 12V/10A
  • Anderson Output – 12V/30A

Input

  • Fast AC Charge Input – 100~120Va.c 16A Max 1600W Max
  • Slow AC Charge Input – 100~120Va.c 16A Max 800W Max
  • Solar Input – 12~150Vd.c 15A Max 2100W Max

Smart Control

  • Connectivity – Bluetooth, WiFi
  • App Control – Yes

4 modes to charge the unit

  • AC Fast Charge – 1600W
  • AC Slow Charge – 800W
  • Solar – 12V to 150V 15A Max Up to 2100W
  • 12V Car Outlet
  • AC and Solar combined for 3700W

General

  • Net Weight – 45.81b.(22kg)
  • Dimensions – 18.1*10.6*12in (460*270*305mm)
  • Operating Temperature – 0℃~40℃/30℉~104℉
  • Storage Temperature – 0℃~40℃/30℉~104℉
  • Certification – UN38.3.MSDs
  • Warranty – 36 Months

Conclusion

The Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station ran all of the appliance we use in our Montana 5th wheel. With the higher capacity solar connectivity, we are able to use the MEGA 2 during the day and keep the internal batteries charged for evening use. And with the ability to add the B2 Multi-functional Batteries, we can run higher wattage appliances for longer periods while storing power for the days when solar production maybe limited.

Out thanks to Oupes providing the MEGA 2 Power Station for our review. I have provided links below for more information about the MEGA 2 power station along with a code to use at check out for additional savings.

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Oupes MEGA 2 Power Station – Powering Our 5th Wheel Off Grid

ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart with Enhanced EMS, and Surge Protection

ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart with Enhanced EMS, and Surge Protection


ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart with Enhanced EMS, and Surge Protection

by Jerry Neal | Jan 27, 2024

The New Active Controls ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart with Enhanced EMS, and Surge Protection

We are a big fan of surge and energy management for our Montana 5th wheel. With over 10 years of RV travel, we’ve seen to many instances where sever weather or poor power systems in the campground can cause damage to the electronic and appliances in an RV. Adding to RV power challenges are those times when an RV is required to operate on 30 amp campground power or a small to midsize generator. 30 amp power can be especially challenging for RVs with a 50 amp need when attempting to power multiple air conditioners and residential refrigerators either constantly tripping breakers or the generator shutting off due to power overload. The good news is softstart devices are available to reduce air conditioner surge minimizing amperage demand and preventing overloads on 30 amp power. The issue of purchasing multiple power management devices for an RV is the overall cost to purchase a surge protector with energy management, multiple softstart devices, and then the cost for installation. The good news is Active Controls has created their new ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart with Enhanced EMS, and Surge Protection in a plug-in device that is very cost effective.

How we use the new ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart

ACS50P ActiveStart SoftStart Spec Sheet We have experienced a number of times when we were out of power in a campground due to bad weather. We also have the ability to stay overnight in Harvest Host locations where an RV must be self-contained. For these instances, especially during the hot Summer months, we need to run a 3500 watt gasoline generator to power our air conditioners and microwave. We also like to stay in state parks and many times 30 amp power is all that is available. For these instances we want to have our air conditioners equipped with a softstart preventing an overload on the 30 amp power due to effects of the compressor start up.

Active Controls has created a unique product for RV travel, the ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart with enhanced EMS, and Surge Protection model ACS50P. This device plugs into the campground power pedestal or a portable generator along with the RV power cord. For the 50 amp power, the ACS50P is equipped with 2 softstarts, one for each the L1 and L2 power circuits. The ACS50P eliminates the need and installation costs to install dedicated softstart to the RV air conditioners.

We also have the benefit of the ACS50P’s very capable surge protection. The unit’s surge protection is rated at 5250 Joules, one of the highest rating in the RV industry for a plug in device.

This new release of the ACS50P is controlled with an easy to navigate Bluetooth smartphone app that now has a number of enhancements for the energy management including:

  • Over Voltage Limits: 132 VAC per leg
  • Under Voltage Limits: 103 VAC per leg
  • Surge Protection: 5250 Joules
  • Current: Maximum nominal= 50 Amps
  • Over Current Limits: ACS50xx = 53A
  • Disable EMS function
  • Disable SoftStart for high amperage devices
  • Plug LEDs validating 50 Amp power connection

Click the spec sheet for more information.

Testing the new ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart

We tested the ACS50P on both a 50 Amp campground power pedestal and our 3500 watt generator. In the video below we show the values provided by the Bluetooth app during operation. The ACS50P gave the condition of the 50 Amp power along with the power demand within our RV.

We then connected the ACS50P to our 3500 watt generator. The generator is rated to a max of 30 amps total output. The ACS50P did a great job allowing us to run both 15000 BTU air conditioners and our residential refrigerator with power to spare for TVs and our cellular Internet router.

Conclusion

The ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart with enhanced EMS, and Surge Protection is an excellent device to consider for 50 Amp powered RVs operating on 30 Amp campground power or small generators. And with the added benefit of surge protection and energy management, the ACS50P provides a cost effect solution for RV power needs.

And for those RV that are equipped with 30 Amp or 20 Amp power, Active Controls also offers the 20 Amp and 30 Amp ActiveStart plug-in units.

We have provided helpful links below the video for more information about the ACS50P along with the checkout code “Jerry” for additional savings at purchase.

ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp softstart plug

Helpful Links:

Active Controls ActiveStart Soft Start

Use code Jerry at checkout for discount.

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: ACS50P ActiveStart 50 Amp SoftStart with Enhanced EMS, and Surge Protection

BougeRV 100 Watt Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

BougeRV 100 Watt Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller


BougeRV 100 Watt Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

by Jerry Neal | Jan 6, 2024

BougeRV 100W Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

We have limited reviews of solar panels due so many YouTube videos and blogs that have covered the topic. We left the door open for a solar panel review in the event we found a unique product that would be beneficial for RV travel. And we found one!

We tested the BougeRV 100W Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel with the Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller. The flexible solar panel has a wide range of applications with its solar performance, durability, lightweight, and flexibility for even the most challenging installation. And the Sunflow 40A MPPT solar charger is feature rich and took minutes to install and configure. A great pair for the RV traveler needing solar power.

BougeRV 100W Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel

The solar panel is designed to be extremely flexible and we tested dozens of times bending over 270 degrees end to end with no change in the panel surface or damage to the solar cells. The panel is lightweight at 4.6 pounds and can be mounted on a wide range of surfaces using the reinforced gussets or an adhesive.

Features
The BougeRV fiberglass curved solar panel features an efficient 10BB cell design, achieving a high conversion rate of up to 23%. Its design also minimizes shading on the cells, enhancing light absorption and potentially contributing to the panel’s overall longevity.

  • Flexible – Can fit around curved structures, flexible for all shapes.
  • Stable output – Stable output can still be guaranteed in shadow occlusion environments.
  • Waterproof – Suitable for wet environments.
  • Lightweight – No frames, no special stands or mounting brackets needed.
  • Glass Free – Nothing to be broken.

BougeRV 100W Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel Specifications

  • Currently available in 100 Watt version
  • Solar panels are IP68 waterproof, ensuring durability and functionality
  • Weighs 3.81 lbs
  • 17.1V of max voltage
  • 5.85 amps of max current
  • Supports a 270 degree curve
  • No drilling to mount with existing reinforced holes or can be glued

We have plans for a larger solar installation and didn’t permanently install. To test the BougeRV 100W Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel, we set up a lithium battery, installed the solar charger, and ran 20 feet of 10 gauge wire to the panel to simulate a typical roof install.

We tested the panel mid December on a sunny day knowing the angle of the winter sun would be less than optimum to maximize solar panel wattage production. As expected we were able to create 50 watts from the panel.

BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

To test the solar panel, we used the BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT solar charger controller. Installation was very simple and configuration using the Bluetooth smartphone app was straightforward with the entire process taking minutes.

The solar controller has a wide range of robust features. The controller can adjust the charge current from 0A to 30A and its high tracking efficiency is up to 99.5% with a peak conversion efficiency up to 99%.

The controller is compatible with Lithium LiFePO4 batteries. One of the challenges with lithium batteries is sub-freezing (32°F) temperatures where a charge will permanently deteriorate performance and safety. The BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT solar charge controller can protect lithium batteries supporting low-temp cut-off at the solar charge controller end. The controller can also restart or activate dormant lithium batteries that are turned off due to short circuits or excessive amp draw.

We especially liked the smartphone remote control app with a Bluetooth range up to 32 feet. Using the app inside our 5th wheel living area we were able to stay informed with the charging and performance of the attached solar panel, lithium battery and solar charge controller.

BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller Specifications

  • System Voltage 12V/24V
  • 40 Amp Charging Currently
  • Max PV input 600W/12V or 1200W/24V
  • Rated load current 20 Amps
  • Battery operating voltage of 8 to 32V
  • Built in Bluetooth

Final Thoughts

The BougeRV 100W Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel has a wide range of applications. With it’s flexibility and ease of installation the solar panel is an an excellent option for RV’s of all styles, vans, buses, as well as marine applications.

The BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller is an affordable solution for small to mid-sized solar installations, yet offers the features needed to charge and manage RV, marine, and off-grid solar projects.

Out thanks to BougeRV who provided the 100W Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel and Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller for our review.

See the video below for our testing and addition information about BougeRV solar products.

We have provided helpful links below for additional information for these and other BougeRV products.

BougeRV 100 Watt Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: BougeRV 100 Watt Fiberglass Curved Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

Merry Christmas from Jerry and Joan at iLoveRVlife

Merry Christmas from Jerry and Joan at iLoveRVlife


Merry Christmas from Jerry and Joan at iLoveRVlife

by Jerry Neal | Dec 23, 2023

From Joan and I along with the entire Neal family, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas from Jerry and Joan at iLoverRVlife

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Merry Christmas from Jerry and Joan at iLoveRVlife

BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller


BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

by Jerry Neal | Dec 16, 2023

BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

We have limited reviews of solar panels due so many YouTube videos and blogs that have covered the topic. We left the door open for a solar panel review in the event we found a unique product that would be beneficial for RV travel. And we found one!

We tested the BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel with the Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller. The flexible solar panel has a wide range of applications with its solar performance, durability, lightweight, and flexibility for even the most challenging installation. And the Sunflow 40A MPPT solar charger is feature rich and took minutes to install and configure. A great pair for the RV traveler needing solar power.

BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel

The solar panel is designed to be extremely flexible and we tested dozens of times bending over 270 degrees end to end with no change in the panel surface or damage to the solar cells. The panel is lightweight at 4.6 pounds and can be mounted on a wide range of surfaces using the reinforced gussets or an adhesive.

Features
CIGS solar cell is a full copper indium gallium selenide solar cell, thin-film photovoltaic device that uses semiconductor layers of copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) to absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity.

  • Flexible – Can fit around curved structures, flexible for all shapes.
  • Stable output – Stable output can still be guaranteed in shadow occlusion environments.
  • Waterproof – Suitable for wet environments.
  • Lightweight – No frames, no special stands or mounting brackets needed.
  • Glass Free – Nothing to be broken.

BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel Specifications

  • Currently available in 100 and 200 Watt versions
  • Copper Indium Gallium Selenide thin-film solar cell technology
  • Weighs 4.6 lbs
  • 25V of max voltage
  • 4 amps of max current
  • Supports a 270 degree curve
  • No drilling to mount with existing reinforced holes or can be glued

We have plans for a larger solar installation and didn’t permanently install. To test the BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel, we set up a lithium battery, installed the solar charger, and ran 20 feet of 10 gauge wire to the panel to simulate a typical roof install.

We tested the panel mid December on a sunny day knowing the angle of the winter sun would be less than optimum to maximize solar panel wattage production. As expected we were able to create 50 watts from the panel.

BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

To test the solar panel, we used the BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT solar charger controller. Installation was very simple and configuration using the Bluetooth smartphone app was straightforward with the entire process taking minutes.

The solar controller has a wide range of robust features. The controller can adjust the charge current from 0A to 30A and its high tracking efficiency is up to 99.5% with a peak conversion efficiency up to 99%.

The controller is compatible with Lithium LiFePO4 batteries. One of the challenges with lithium batteries is sub-freezing (32°F) temperatures where a charge will permanently deteriorate performance and safety. The BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT solar charge controller can protect lithium batteries supporting low-temp cut-off at the solar charge controller end. The controller can also restart or activate dormant lithium batteries that are turned off due to short circuits or excessive amp draw.

We especially liked the smartphone remote control app with a Bluetooth range up to 32 feet. Using the app inside our 5th wheel living area we were able to stay informed with the charging and performance of the attached solar panel, lithium battery and solar charge controller.

BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller Specifications

  • System Voltage 12V/24V
  • 40 Amp Charging Currently
  • Max PV input 600W/12V or 1200W/24V
  • Rated load current 20 Amps
  • Battery operating voltage of 8 to 32V
  • Built in Bluetooth

Final Thoughts

The BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel has a wide range of applications in its 100W and 200W capacities. With it’s flexibility and ease of installation the solar panels are an excellent option for RV’s of all styles, vans, buses, as well as marine applications.

The BougeRV Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller is an affordable solution for small to mid-sized solar installations, yet offers the features needed to charge and manage RV, marine, and off-grid solar projects.

Out thanks to BougeRV who provided the 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel and Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller for our review.

See the video below for our testing and addition information about BougeRV solar products.

We have provided helpful links below for additional information for these and other BougeRV products.

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: BougeRV 100W CIGS Flexible Solar Panel & Sunflow 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro Power Station with 30 Amp Connector

ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro Power Station with 30 Amp Connector


ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro Power Station with 30 Amp Connector

by Jerry Neal | Dec 9, 2023

ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro Power Station with 30 Amp Connector

We are always on the lookout for efficient yet simple systems to extend our power needs in our RV travels. When towing for long days and overnight stays where there’s no opportunity to connect to a power pedestal, our option has been to power the 110 Volt appliances with a gasoline 4500 Watt generator. Sometimes this is overkill when we need to stop for 30 minutes for lunch or our overnight stay at a Harvest host occurs during the months when no air conditioning is needed. For these stops, we needed a midsize portable power stations. To meet these off-grid power needs, we tested the ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro portable power station and this unit exceeded our expectations especially with it’s 30 Amp RV connection.

ALLPOWERS S2000 PRO Portable Power Station

The ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro has a 1500Wh capacity and 2400W output making it capable of running most RV and home appliances. The power station can operate as a UPS immediately supplying battery backup power. This is a great applications for both RV travelers and off-grid homes when refrigerators, computers, and other delicate equipment loose 110V AC power or power fluctuates above or below safe levels.

We were impressed with the speed when recharging the ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro portable power station and fully recharging within 1.5 hours when plugged into a household 110V outlet. Via the MPPT 650W max solar input and using 600 Watts of solar power, the power station has the opportunity to be fully recharged within 3 hours.

The ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro portable power station supports Bluetooth wireless connections with ALLPOWERS smart phone app. We were able to monitor and control the power station from 30 feet away. Using the power station LCD display and the smart phone app, we could accurately determine the power station’s remaining battery, input and output wattage.

S2000 Pro Specifications

  • Capacity – 1500Wh / 405405mAh
  • Battery Type – Ternary lithium battery
  • Wattage – 37.5 x 24.5 x 25 centimeters / 14.76 x 9.64 x 9.84 inch
  • AC Power – 2400W AC Pure Sine Wave Inverter (4,000W Surge)
  • Weight – 32 lbs
  • 1 – 30 A RV outlet
  • 4 – AC Output
  • 4 – USB A Output
  • 1 – Car Output
  • 2- USB C Output
  • Solar Input – MPPT 18-70V, 18A 650W Max

ALLPOWERS also provided two 200 Watt portable solar panels, Model AP-SP-033. The panels were simple to set up and came with a number of adapters to connect to various solar powered devices. Since the panels and power station are not sold as a kit, the panels did not connect MC4 adapters to connect the panels together or a MC4 to XT60 cable to connect the panels to the power station. These are not expensive items and I had both in my power kit. I also prefer using a longer power cord from the solar panels to the power station allowing me to extend the connection from outdoors to the 5th wheel storage bay.

AP-SP-033 Portable Solar Panel Specifications

  • Peak power – 200 Watts
  • Open circuit voltage – 22.2V
  • Maximum power voltage – 18V
  • Maximum power current – 11A
  • Weight – 13.9 lbs
  • Size folded for transport – 25.6 inches x 20.3 inches
  • Size unfolded for use – 87.8 inches x 25.6 inches

How we tested the ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro Power Station

As with all our power systems testing at iLoveRVlife, we set up the ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro as our primary power source. Now with the advantage of having a 30 Amp RV style receptacle, we used a 50 Amp to 30 Amp adapter to connect the power station to the side of the 5th wheel. With this connection, we were able to run all 110V devices located inside our Montana.

Testing the S2000 Pro Power station
Our Montana 5th wheel is set up for long term living plus we’ve added a number of 110 volt powered devices to the factory installation adding to our entertainment and work-on-the-road requirements. To test the power station, I wanted to use as many devices at one time just as if we stopped along our travels for a long lunch break or an overnight stop at a Harvest Host.

Our first test was connecting an oscilloscope to the power station. Before we connected this power station to the 5th wheel, I wanted to ensure the inverter was capable of producing clean power. We found the inverter produced a smooth sine wave with no jagged edges or clipping. This occur at idle and with a load. This is important especially with the use of sensitive electronics such as TVs, computers, routers, etc. to where a jagged sine wave, also known as dirty power, can prevent these devices from operating properly.

For our load test we powered the following devices at the same time to maximize wattage consumption using the power station.

  • GE 3-door residential refrigerator
  • 1500 Watt microwave
  • 50 inch TV
  • ROKU soundbar
  • Cradlepoint 5G R1900 cellular router

I also wanted to test the power station for those times when Joan would be spending time at her make-up desk running both a curling iron and a 1500 Watt hair dryer. I tuned these on while running all the devices listed above without the microwave.

This test would be a typical usage load on our 110V service. All the devices would operate at the same time with the exception of the microwave which would be used for short a duration during meal preparation time. Running all the device above used 1600 Watts of power for both tests. The test performed is to ensure a refrigerator with the compressor starting and causing a brief power surge would not cause the power station to overload and shut off when other 110 Volt devices were in use. With the ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro power station having the ability to handle a 4000 Watt surge, no overload or shutdown was experienced.

Testing the ALLPOWERS 200 Watt portable solar panels
We had a sunny December day with no clouds to test the panels. We connected the two panels to the S2000 Pro power station and were able to achieve 260 Watts of power at 20 volts. This was a reasonable output considering the angle of the winter sun.

The power station was at 81% remaining capacity from our testing and we charged the unit to 100% withing 1 hour and 20 minutes.

To see the actual testing, view the video below.

Final Thoughts

Overall I was very impressed with the performance of the ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro power station and the AP-SP-033 200 Watt foldable solar panels. Given all the appliances we have in the 5th wheel that we use on a regular basis, the power station operated with ample wattage to spare.

Replenishing the capacity of the power station would be easily sustained throughout the day and we found using for our general power use and the two 200 Watt solar panels should replace the power daily power used on those sunny days.

When comparing price to performance, the ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro power station is an excellent addition when off-grid RV power is needed.

Out thanks to ALLPOWERS for providing the S2000 Pro power station and the AP-SP-033 portable solar panels for our review.

Below the video, we have provided helpful links for products used.

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: ALLPOWERS S2000 Pro Power Station with 30 Amp Connector

Serenity Cellars, Helen GA Side Streets, 12 Spies Vineyards

Serenity Cellars, Helen GA Side Streets, 12 Spies Vineyards


Serenity Cellars, Helen GA Side Streets, 12 Spies Vineyards

by Jerry Neal | Dec 2, 2023

Serenity Cellars, Helen GA Side Streets, 12 Spies Vineyards

This is our last week in the North Georgia mountains for this year. The Fall scenery has been a great treat and we’re traveling to Serenity Cellars, Helen GA Side Streets, 12 Spies Vineyards, some of our favorite locations.

Serenity Cellars, Cleveland, GA

I took a short trip from the campground and stopped at Serenity Cellars, one of our favorite wineries located in the Cleveland, GA. We found Serenity Cellars several year ago as we traveled the area looking for the different styles of wines created by the local vintners.

The Serenity Cellar’s tasting room is located on a large hillside with both indoor and outdoor seating. Weekends are always special with musical entertainment along with the great wines offered. We often bring food and spend a while enjoying the wine and talented singers. But, on this visit I stopped by mid-week when less crowded to talk with the Edwardo who is the resident sommelier. Edwardo took me on a tasting journey of their delicious wines and of course, good conversation.

I couldn’t leave Serenity Cellars without wine for the holidays. Always a great visit.

The Side Streets of Helen, GA

A trip to North Georgia wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the pretty Bavarian village of Helen, GA. We have traveled here for years and watched as it has transitioned into one of the more popular locations in the area with people visiting from all across the world. This year, I wanted to do something a little different and spend the afternoon visiting some of the side streets around Helen to experience what the village had to offer other than the typical shops, restaurants, and Oktoberfest Halls.

Helen Arts & Heritage Center
I stopped first at Helen Arts & Heritage Center to take in the wears from many of the local craft persons. The Center has a wide assortment of quality painting, jewelry, pottery and much more on display with each item available for purchase.

I also had the opportunity to speak with one of the local jewelry makers who shared her experience and also gave me a tour of the center. Make sure you catch her sharing her craft in the video below.

Helen Glass Blowing Shop
The staff at the Arts Center suggested I stop at the Helen Glass Blowing Shop to see the many pieces of glass art made locally. I was treated by the local glass blower making a number of items. I also found unique jewelry created in the shop and couldn’t leave without purchasing a piece for Joan. You should have seen Joan when I surprised her with a unique turquoise necklace and matching earrings.

Nora Mill Granary Grist Mill & Country Store
I also stopped at the Nora Mill Granary Grist Mill & Country Store to tour the grain making process and of course, purchase some fresh ground corn meal and buckwheat pancake mix.

Nora Mill Granary is an operational gristmill built in 1876 and is located on the edge of the Chattahoochee River on the outskirts of Helen. The mill is unique, not powered by a vertical water wheel, but uses a water turbine fed by a 100 ft. wooden raceway. During many of the weekends, you can visit the Granary and see the mill in action.

It’s wonderful that the third and fourth generation of the Fain family continue to operate the mill providing high quality milled corn products and allowing visitors to experience this historic general store and granary.

12 Spies Vineyards, Rabun Gap, GA

Much has changed in Raburn Gap, GA along with the nearby villages of Clayton and Dillard since my first visit in 1980. A few years out of the US Air Force and then college, I was working for the Continental Telephone Company who served over 1,400 rural telephone companies operating in 31 states. I was a central office technician and part of the team converting this area to digital telephone.

I fell in love with these North Georgia mountains – the beautify of the rolling hills, the lifestyle and pace of the mountains, and the friendly people who treated me as one of their own. Much has changed over the years and the area has grown offering a wide range of real estate options and service businesses.

One addition to the North Georgia mountains has been wine making. The area has attracted a variety of vineyard growers and wine makers each offering their unique approach to wine making as well as tasting rooms. One of our favorites is 12 Spies Vineyards. We have become friends with Shelly and Mike Brown, vintners and owners of this winery. They have transformed their piece of a valley into a beautiful tasting room and outdoor space treating visitors to that unique experience of local wine, beautiful landscape, and on the weekends local entertainment talent. And on our last day in the North Georgia mountains, we were able to again experience a great Saturday, spending time with our friends all while enjoying great 12 Spies Vineyards wine and song from Teddy Baker.

This season for North Georgia is over, but we know much more lies ahead. Joan and I often find ourselves counting the days until we return and hope you too will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful North Georgia mountains in the near future.

serenity cellars, helen ga, 12 spies vineyards

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Serenity Cellars, Helen GA Side Streets, 12 Spies Vineyards

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Heated & Bluetooth & Victron Comms

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Heated & Bluetooth & Victron Comms


Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Heated & Bluetooth & Victron Comms

by Jerry Neal | Nov 25, 2023

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah 1080 – Heated & Bluetooth & Victron Communications

We evaluated the Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah with Bluetooth, self-heating, and Victron communications as our primary off-road power source. This the perfect 12 DC power solution for those who have large RVs with residential appliances and the need to operate when no campground power is available. The Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah is a strong contender for those who camp off-grid and need the extra amperage to extend these stays for those days when solar production is a challenge.

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Evaluation

We put the Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah to the test using our Montana 5th wheel as a real-world environment powering a large GE residential refrigerator, lights, TV, and slides over an extended period of time without any means to charge the battery. Our efforts were to simulate a long tow lasting 10 hours, an over night stay, and then continuing to the next destination for another 7 hours. We relied on the Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah only, with no provisions for solar, campground, or the 7-pin connection to our truck for charging power.

Over the evaluation period, we used both the iOS Epoch LI-Ion Bluetooth app for iPhones and our Victron Smart Shunt monitor the performance of the battery. As a check and balance between both monitoring platforms, we found the reporting to be within a percentage point of remaining capacity and available voltage.

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Results

With the battery at full charge, the evaluation for the Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah exceeded our expectations. We ran our test over 31 hours and at the end of two days, we still had 26 percent, one quarter of the battery capacity remaining.

Recharging the battery with our Progressive Dynamics 75 amp charger took around 3 hours. The shortest time when have experience with any of the batteries we’ve tested to date.

With the batteries heavy duty construction, metal case, low temperature disconnect, internal heating, 11 year warranty, and much more, this is a perfect solution for our 12V power needs.

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Specifications

  • LiFePO4 Chemistry – Deep Cycle Battery
  • Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah HEATED – Internal heating allows for charging in sub-zero conditions
  • BLUETOOTH – iOS and Android Apps
  • Built-in Smart Battery Management System (BMS)
  • Over charge and over discharge protection
  • Over current and short circuit protection
  • High & low temperature disconnects
  • Max (4) in Series up to 48V @ 300Ah
  • Max (4) in Parallel up to 12V @ 1,200Ah
  • 4,000+ Cycle life & Maintenance-free
  • UL1973, UL1642, IEC 62133, UN38.3
  • 11 Year Manufacturer Warranty
  • Weight: 72 (LBS)
  • Dimensions: 8.1 x 11.1 x 15.4 (inches)
  • Ah Capacity: 300Ah
  • Max Continuous Discharge Amps: 300A
  • Max Charge Current Amps: 300A
  • Max Discharge Peak Current Amps: 900A (3 Seconds)
  • Max (4) in Series, Max (4) in Parallel – 4S4P

VOLTAGE

  • Voltage: 12.8V
  • Max Charge Voltage: 14.6V
  • Operating Voltage Range: 10.0 – 14.6V

Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Heated & Bluetooth & Victron Comms

Hiking Duke Creek Falls and Biking Smithgall Woods State Park

Hiking Duke Creek Falls and Biking Smithgall Woods State Park


Hiking Duke Creek Falls and Biking Smithgall Woods State Park

by Jerry Neal | Nov 18, 2023

Hiking Duke Creek Falls and Biking Smithgall Woods State Park in Helen, GA

We had several weeks of great weather in North Georgia to go out and experience the hills and trails. This week I visited two popular spots, Dukes Creek Falls for a hike to a series of beautiful waterfalls and Smithgall Woods State Park to bike over 5 miles in this amazing conservation area.

Duke Creek Falls

Dukes Creek Falls is located on Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Highway a few minutes outside of Helen, GA and 20 minutes from Leisure Acres Campground. This was one of our shorter hikes we experienced this year providing great views of the surrounding mountains, vibrant Fall foliage, and the series of waterfalls at the end of the trail did not disappoint.

The trail is well walked and offers a number of short steps and wooden walkways along the trail and at the bottom to observe the waterfalls. The walk is gradual, well maintained, and did not contain any obstacles to navigate. There were several spot along the trail where we could stop and see the mountains with this year’s Fall canopy rich in yellows, oranges and reds. As we walked the trail, we were able to view Dukes Creek and teased with a number of small cascading flows along the rock formations as a hint to what we would find at the end of the trail.

Reaching the bottom of the trail, we were greeted with a number of waterfalls. One was a small stream starting several hundreds hundreds of feet above and gracefully flowing down the mountain side to the stream below. Continuing along the observation deck, a series of falls flowed over a large rock formation. The waterfalls and the cascading steam below gave a beautiful show with the hills and Fall foliage in the background.

The hike back to the top took around 30 minutes and took moderate effort. At the top, is another view of the mountain vistas in the distance capping off this hike in the North Georgia mountains.

Smithgall Woods State Park

Leaving Dukes Creek Falls and heading back to the campground, we stopped at Smithgall Woods State Park located at 61 Tsalaki Trail next to Helen, GA.

Smithgall Woods is a Conservation Area consisting of 5,664 acres as a protected wilderness area. It contains old growth forests, trout streams, and abundance of wildlife. The area is named for Charles A. Smithgall Jr., a Georgia publisher and philanthropist who sold the property to the state in 1994 for half its appraised value. During his time of ownership, he had teams restock streams and plant thousands of trees to restore the natural beauty.

I took the bike to ride along 5 miles of trails. The bike trails were a mix of paved and gravel roads where I experienced the beautiful hardwood trees in their fall colors along with the streams and wildlife. We didn’t have time to enjoy the many trails in the park during this trip, but the bike ride didn’t disappoint.

I hope you have an opportunity to visit these sites in the future. They are easy to hike and bike and there’s so much to see in these nature wonderlands.

Dukes Creek Falls and Smithgall Woods State Park

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Hiking Duke Creek Falls and Biking Smithgall Woods State Park

Evaluating the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery and DC Socket Outlet

Evaluating the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery and DC Socket Outlet


Evaluating the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery and DC Socket Outlet

by Jerry Neal | Nov 11, 2023

We are always on the lookout for innovative power solutions for the RV traveler. We have looked at both power stations and lithium batteries as sources when campground power isn’t available. Today we are evaluating the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery due to it’s large capacity and value pricing. We also wanted to take this opportunity to go a step farther providing a power station environment using the battery along with a 14.4V 20 Amp battery charger and DC Battery Outlet also provided by Time USB. This solution supplies battery power to the RV along with charging and outlets to power DC and USB devices at a very affordable price.

Why Lithium Batteries Vs Lead Acid Batteries

Over the last 18 months we have become big fans of lithium batteries. We’re not long term boondockers, but we often tow our 5th wheel for extended periods or have overnight stops where pedestal power may not be available. The power offered by lithium over lead acid batteries makes a substantial difference in these instances.

Many RVs, our Montana 5th wheel included, come from the factory with Group 27 lead acid batteries. These batteries have been a main stay in the industry providing reliable power for the 12V DC devices and lighting found in most motorized and pull behind RVs.

The downside of lead acid batteries has been their weight and capacity. Most 100 Amp Group 27 lead acid batteries are capable of providing 50 amps of usable power. This is the result of the damage that can occur when discharging a lead acid battery below 12V DC which is one half or 50 remaining amps in the battery. To achieve 100 amps of usable power, two Group 27 batteries are used, configured in parallel.

Using a Lithium battery such as the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery, we can provide 4 times the amp hour capacity found in two Group 27 lead acid batteries with less than half of the weight. This increase in available amps is the result of the LifePO4 cells that make up the 12V battery and the battery management system (BMS) limiting the discharge to 10% without damaging the battery cells.

Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery Specifications

  • 12.8V Nominal voltage
  • 230Ah Capacity
  • 50A BMS board
  • 2944Wh energy
  • 1920 Max. power
  • 150A Max. current
  • 44lb battery weight
  • 19 x 6.7 x 9.5 in Dimensions (L*W*H)
  • 15000 Cycles & 10-year Service Life

There is a temperature issue to consider with the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery and other lithium batteries that do not have low temperature protection. These LifePO4 batteries cannot be charged below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or the battery cells will experience permanent damage.

Evaluating the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery

Charging the Battery
We started our test with a fully charged battery. As part of the evaluation, we used the 14.4V 20 amp charger provided by Time USB. This is a cost effective charger that was simple to use with a status LED glowing red while charging and green when complete. We started the charge late in the afternoon and it was complete the following morning to start our battery evaluation.

Real World Battery Test
Our process to evaluate RV batteries is to place in a real operating environment where devices and lighting in our Montana 5th wheel are powered as we tow and use the RV. In the evaluation we use the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery without any external power from our F-350 Super Duty, the solar panel, or 110V pedestal power. Our effort was to determine how the battery would perform over an extended period of time in an actual use environment with no external charging.

Our evaluation lasted over 25 hours running a large 110V AC 3-door GE residential refrigerator through a 2000 watt DC to AC inverter. We also operated 12V LED lights throughout the 5th wheel along with constant demands from various devices such as thermostats, 12V to USB chargers, etc.

Battery Test Results
At the end of the 25 hours of use, we still had an estimated 35% of battery capacity available. This exceeded our expectations for this battery, but we had one more device to evaluate – the Time USB DC Battery Socket Outlet.

Using the Time USB DC Battery Socket Outlet
The Time USB DC Battery Socket Outlet was inexpensive yet a convent way to have a number of power connections supporting a wide variety of options. It took minutes to mount the outlet on a wall and connect to the battery with the supplied cable. The unit has a LED power display to show the current state of the battery along with a 12V cigarette style accessory outlet, 2 – USB 2.4A, 2 – QC 3.0 USB, and 2 – USB C connections.

We tested the Outlet with a 55 Quart 12V chest style refrigerator and all of the USB connections using a cell phone. Each device powered or charged with no issues.

Final Thoughts

The Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery performed well and gave an affordable solution to extend our travels using a single lithium battery. In our use with the addition of our solar charging, we will be able to extend our time in towing and overnight night stays where pedestal power isn’t available and the use of a gas generator isn’t convenient.

Out thanks to Time USB for providing the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery, charger and socket outlet for our evaluation.

Raven Cliff Falls Helen GA

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Evaluating the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery and DC Socket Outlet

Hiking Raven Cliff Falls in Helen GA

Hiking Raven Cliff Falls in Helen GA


Hiking Raven Cliff Falls in Helen GA

by Jerry Neal | Nov 4, 2023

Raven Cliff Falls, Helen, GA

One of the fun activities I enjoy when we travel to the mountains are all the great trails to hike. On this years trip to North Georgia I wanted to find trails that I haven’t experienced and if water falls were in the mix then even better. In this video I share Raven Cliff Falls in Helen, GA. It’s the peak of Fall and the scenery if spectacular.

Hiking Raven Cliff Falls

A short drive from the campground and minutes from Helen is Raven Cliff Falls located off 3000 Richard Russell Hwy, Helen, GA. The trail to the falls follows Dodd Creek and offers a wide variety of scenery.

Most trail maps rate the trail as moderate and I agree. I found the trail to be well hiked, easy to follow with a few easy creek crossing. The area that had the most difficulty was at the end along the steep cliffs.

There were a number of smaller waterfalls along the trail that were easy to access and provided a great location for photos. At the end are very large and shear granite cliffs where the highest waterfalls are located. Unfortunately, there has been little rain over the past few weeks when and the falls were not very prominent. But, the lack of water did not detract from the beauty of the area.

I hiked mid week and it wasn’t crowded, but weekends during the popular seasons can be very busy. This was a fun hike that took most of the morning. Great views along the way and opportunities for great views across the seasons.

Raven Cliff Falls Helen GA

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Hiking Raven Cliff Falls in Helen GA

Wandering Around North Georgia

Wandering Around North Georgia


Wandering Around North Georgia

by Jerry Neal | Oct 28, 2023

Wandering Around North Georgia

Joan and I enjoy wandering around North Georgia. This area has been one of our favorite RV destinations for the last 10 years. And this year continues to amaze us as we return to some past destinations and as well as discovering new places never visited.

Crane Creek Vineyards

Crane Creek Vineyards - North GeorgiaIn this video below, we start at Crane Creek Vineyards located in Young Harris, GA. We missed this vineyard last year and on this trip went to the Farm House tasting room located at the base of the vineyard. This was a first usually going to the top of the vineyard to the newer Stone House. The Farm House was built in 1901 and still retrains much of the old charm. Located at the bottom section of the vineyard, covered sitting areas have been added along with seating along the edge near the vines.

We visited on this crisp Fall day enjoying this years wine vintages along with excellent Barbecue from the food truck. Crane Creek Vineyards is pet friendly and Joan and I were entertained by a number of the fur babies who visited. This was a great start this years wandering around North Georgia.

Blue Ridge Honey Company – North Georgia

blue ridge honey company Located a few miles south of Clayton, GA on US 441, is Blue Ridge Honey Company. This is one of those places we pass often when I suggest to Joan that we need to check out. Embarrassed to say how many times we have said that over the years of our North Georgia travels. Finally, we stopped and were not disappointed.

Blue Ridge Honey Co. is a family business with bee yards located in Northeast Georgia, Western North Carolina and South Georgia. Something that impressed us was the quality of the honey. Their honey is pure, natural and raw. They do not pasteurize or micro filter the honey. And the results were proof. We sampled each variety from the often found clover and wildflower to more unique types of blueberry, black sage, and more. You may be asking what was our favorite? All of them!!!

Aside from tasting the honey, we were able to see the production area, a live hive (safely behind glass) and many other products made from beeswax and honey.

Jumpin Goat Coffee Roasters

jumpin goat coffee roasters - North GeorgiaA few minutes from the campground is Jumpin Goat Coffee Roasters located at 2404 Helen Highway in Cleveland GA. Pulling off the highway and continuing up the hillside driveway, we were greeted with one of the most stunning views in Cleveland. The cafe and roaster is located on a ridge overlooking gentle rolling hills with an amazing presentation of Mt Yonah in the background.

Walking to the cafe, I was greeted with the wonderful aroma of fresh roasted beans and seeing the smoke rolling along the side of the building, Inside the cafe, the friendly staff welcomed me and I couldn’t wait to have a fresh brewed coffee. I treated myself to a delicious Americana and returned outside to enjoy the views.

Before I returned to the campground, I couldn’t leave without purchasing a number of their excellent coffees and gazing at the incredible views one more time.

We’ll be in this area for a while and looking forward to sharing this years adventures as we continue our wandering around North Georgia.

ilovervlife wandering around north georgia

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Wandering Around North Georgia

HiBoy EX6 E-bike – Great Features at a Lower Cost

HiBoy EX6 E-bike – Great Features at a Lower Cost


HiBoy EX6 E-bike – Great Features at a Lower Cost

by Jerry Neal | Oct 21, 2023

HiBoy EX6 E-Bike

We have been testing e-bikes that fit our RV lifestyle for the past 12 months. Some of these have been expensive e-bikes that have been feature rich. We’ve had many comments on our YouTube channel as well as contacts from our lovervlife.com website stating they wanted an e-bike, but needed a more affordable solution yet retain many of they features to make the e-bike experience enjoyable. So we took up the challenge to find an e-bike that met those requirements. We are contacted by many e-bike manufacturers and settled on the HiBoy EX6 Electric Bike. At the time of this video and blog, the direct purchase from HiBoy or from Amazon with coupon, the e-bike is below the $1,000 price and maintains all the features we find important for an enjoyable experience.

HiBoy EX6 E-Bike Features

  • 500W powerful brushless motor – 500w high speed brushless motor, with high torque and a top speed 25+mph.
  • 15AH Large capacity battery – 15AH/48V removable battery that can help you go 41 miles on electricity alone and 75 miles with pedal assistance depending on terrain.
  • All-terrain fat tire and fork shocks – The 20″ x 4.0″ all-terrain fat tire e-bike is suitable for riding on all kinds of bumpy terrain, mud and beach. The 4″ fat tire is large wheel to ground contact area and cave-in resistance as well as better grip. The fork shocks provide a smooth and comfortable riding experience on rough and rocky terrain.
  • Ergonomic riding design – Adjustable handlebars provide a comfortable riding experience along with a memory foam adjustable seat. The seat height is adjustable and along with the low step-in frame and the step-in design allows riders to get on/off the bike quickly and with little effort.
  • Comfortable riding experience – Built in 3 riding modes, easy to switch by button. The e-bike can be used as a standard bike with now assistance. The power of the HiBoy EX6 E-bike comes from the 5 modes of torque assist and 500 watt motor. Making changes from the handlebar mounted controller can be handled with ease. The Shimano 7 speed shifting package gives the e-bike greater versatility to handle the step hills and rough terrain.

See the video below for our experience with the HiBoy EX6 E-Bike. Our thanks to HiBoy providing the EX6 e-bike for our evaluation. We have provided links below for the purchase of the e-bike and available discounts.

HiBoy EX6 E-bike

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: HiBoy EX6 E-bike – Great Features at a Lower Cost

Preparing Our RV For A Trip

Preparing Our RV For A Trip


Preparing Our RV For A Trip

by Jerry Neal | Oct 14, 2023

Preparing Our RV For A Trip

Due to some medical issues, we had to limit our summer travel. I share more in the video below. The very good news is all is well and after many months we are heading back out to enjoy some extended RV travel. With the 5th wheel sitting for these many months and time for some annual maintenance, I thought this would be a good time to share preparing our RV for a trip.

RV roof inspection

Owning an RV for 10 years, we’ve learned from experience (not always positive) to give the roof a thorough inspection. I look at all the roof seams that have lap sealant, and check the plastic skylight and roof vents for cracks. It never fails that after a year of travel, there are locations in the lap sealant that crack or separate the will allow water to intrude. A few minutes of inspection and follow up with a little lap sealant will prevent leaks and worse, damage to the RV roof and ceiling.

Cleaning a very dirty 5th wheel

We had a heavy travel scheduled planned for the year, with the July 1 injury everything stopped. We parked a dirty 5th wheel only to get worse from dirt and pollen along with the road scum hardening on the surface. Our next step for preparing our RV for a trip was to give the 5th wheel a good scrub.

It takes us around 3 hours to wash the external surfaces of our 5th wheel. The roof had gone from a bright white to an ugly gray and black. Aside from it dirty appearance, a dark roof adsorbs the sun and doesn’t reflect causing unwanted heat. Our roof is PVC and when clean reflects the sun and reduces the hot temperatures in the 5th wheel.

We don’t use a pressure washer. I don’t have an issue with those who have pressure washer skills, I don’t. I prefer to use a large, soft bristle car wash brush. Also, harsh detergents such as Dawn or similar products can cause damage to the RV surface finish stripping the wax and causing premature oxidation. I’ve had good success using Meguiar’s M4364 Marine/RV Boat Wash. A large bottle will last several years and I use on our F-350 too.

Tow vehicle tire inspection

Having experienced two RV tire blow outs during our early RV travels, I never start a long trip without inspecting the condition of our tires and tire pressure. We also use TST tire monitoring on our 5th wheels and F-350 to watch for changes in temperatures and pressure that could result in a blow out while traveling.

We always follow the tire pressures recommended by the RV and tire manufacturer. These are posted on the side or inside the doorway of the RV and on the side of the tire. Under or over inflating the tires can cause excessive tire pressure or over heating and result in failure.

We also inspect the condition of the tires. We look for damage to the sidewalls or the treads resulting for pot holes or other road hazards. We check the bead next to the rim. We look for cracks, defects or any indication of dry rot. If found, we have the tires replaced.

Also check the tire lugs to ensure each are tight. You can find the manufacturer axle recommendations for lugs online.

Failing to inspect and remedy RV tire issues can cause failure and when these tires blow, they destroy the sides of the RV and can blow holes in the floor.

Tow vehicle hitch and tires

For those that have a tow vehicle, the hitch should be inspected at least once a year. This included both 5th wheel and camper hitches. Inspect and tighten all the bolts. Look for cracks or failed welds in the hitch, tongue or pin. Lube the hitch per manufacturers recommendations.

For those of us who tow 5th wheels and have older trucks without the puck system, check the bolts connecting the rails to the frame. Make sure all are tight to the brackets and frame.

Those miscellaneous tasks before travel

There are a number of small, yet important tasks to perform before RV travel and more so if the RV has been sitting for a period of time. In the video below, I share our steps for each as they relate to our needs and may be helpful as you prepare for your travels.

If you need more information about the products used in the video, we have provided helpful links below.

Preparing Our RV For A Trip

Helpful Links:

Our thanks to Brooklyn Bedding who sponsored today’s video. Go to https://rvmattress.com/ilovervlife and use discount code “ilovervlife” for 25% off any mattress.

Meguiar’s M4364 Marine/RV Boat Wash

Fifth Wheel Lube Plate

Deluxe Car Wash 8″ Brush

Deluxe Car Wash 8″ Brush

SetPower PT55 58Qt Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Preparing Our RV For A Trip

Can You Earn A Living With YouTube – Part 2

Can You Earn A Living With YouTube – Part 2


Can You Earn A Living With YouTube – Part 2

by Jerry Neal | Oct 7, 2023

Can you earn a living with YouTube
Part 2 – How much we earn from YouTube

This is Part 2 of our two part series “Can you earn a living with YouTube?” In this installment I share how much we make from YouTube and our efforts to off set the expenses to create content and supplement these costs with income from YouTube.

If you missed Part 1 – Tips to help you start your YouTube channel click here to view.

how much we earn from youtube

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Can You Earn A Living With YouTube – Part 2

Can you earn a living with YouTube – Part 1

Can you earn a living with YouTube – Part 1


Can you earn a living with YouTube – Part 1

by Jerry Neal | Oct 4, 2023

Can you earn a living with YouTube
Part 1 – Tips to help start your YouTube channel

This is Part 1 of a two part series titled “Can you earn a living with YouTube?” The simple answer is maybe. Their are a number of parts that we have learned as to what makes a YouTube channel successful and more so, the challenge to making money from our efforts.

In Part 1, I cover the landscape for YouTube, how large and an intro as to the overall volume of YouTube. I also cover a number of helpful tips as to how to be successful from content creation and the overall channel and video creation process.

Can you make a living with youtube

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Can you earn a living with YouTube – Part 1

Replacing RV Bed Gas Struts

Replacing RV Bed Gas Struts


Replacing RV Bed Gas Struts

by Jerry Neal | Sep 28, 2023

Replacing RV Bed Gas Struts

Replacing RV bed gas struts are a relatively easy task. These bed struts go bad after a few years of use or are needed when bedding is replaced with a heavier mattress. In our case, we replaced our mattress with a Brooklyn Bedding Signature series and along with the added comfort, increased the weight by two and half times. This overloaded the existing gas struts and it was difficult to raise the bed for storage access and the bed would not stay in the raised position. The fix is very easy and cost us around $20.

It’s Easy Replacing the RV Gas Struts

Our first task was to determine the load rating and length of the existing gas struts. This may be found on the gas strut label or a quick search of the model number on Google will give the data needed. Also, measure both the length of the black section of the strut and the overall length when extended before purchasing a new strut.

If the existing bedding is used, stay with the same weight strut as installed at the factory. We knew we increased the weight of our bedding and looked for struts around two times stronger than factory. Our Montana 5th wheel came with 80lb struts and we increased the strength to 150lbs. With a bedding increase, using too little will not ease lifting and staying in place, and too strong could cause attachment pull out from the wood or the bed platform will not stay in place when closed.

We show our process of removing old struts and replacing with new in the video below. It took us less than hour. It’s important to look at the strut used. Some can be removed from the hardware, others may be permanently installed and the struts will need to be unscrewed from the platform and new strut installed. Our installation required us to remove a spring clip holding the strut to the hardware, remove strut, install new strut and replace with the provided spring clip.

I can’t confirm your specific installation needs, but if you have used similar bedding and have the same length in gas strut, I’ve providing a link to the unit we purchased below.

replacing rv bed gas struts

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Replacing RV Bed Gas Struts

BigBlue SolarPowa 20 – Solar USB Charger

BigBlue SolarPowa 20 – Solar USB Charger


BigBlue SolarPowa 20 – Solar USB Charger

by Jerry Neal | Sep 26, 2023

BigBlue SolarPowa 20 – USB Charging for the Campsite and Beach

Our RV travels take Joan and I to places where there’s no power for our devices such as cell phones, tablets or our Internet hotspot. For the past year, we have used the large power stations for supplemental power and they have worked great, but they are large, bulky and heavy for short trips when we need to charge our phones. We now have an alternative, the BigBlue SolarPowa 20 portable solar panel with two USB ports. With the SolarPowa 20, we can head to the beach or a weekend outing, pack light and keep our phones and tablets charged.

BigBlue SolarPowa 20

The BigBlue SolarPowa 20 is light weight and fits easily in a backpack or carry bag. The panel weighs 1.7 lbs and folded is 9” X 9” and with the attached USB power connection is 1.5″ thick. Open, the panel is 26” X 9”.

The back of the solar panel contains the USB charger with a USB Type-A and a USB Type-C connection, both rated at 5V and 2.4A. Also on the back is a folding arm that fits flat when stored and can be open to act as a kick stand to gain the best angle for sun exposure. We also like the reinforced eyelets on the corners where we can hang from our tent when we spend the day at the beach.

BigBlue SolaPowa 20 Features

  • EASY TO CARRY: Portable, rugged and lightweight. Easy solutions for portable USB charging.
  • HIGH-EFFICIENCY: Latest custom-designed N-Type PERC TOPCon Solar cells with energy conversion of 24.3%.
  • CONVERSION OPTIMIZATION: Easy to deploy adjustable stand to angle the panel from 30- to 60-degree. Reinforced eyelets to hang the panel.
  • WEATHER- PROOF: Weather-proof with a 10-year performance warranty.

Testing the BigBlue SolarPowa 20

We wanted a bright sunny day to test the BigBlue SolarPowa 20, but after two weeks of rain and overcast skies, decided to give the panel a real world test during a partly cloudy day. We expected this would be a challenge for the panel, but perfect sunny days aren’t always available when we travel and we need to charge our phones.

For the test we used a Samsung 8+ cell phone and a Samsung 8” tablet. The phone was completely discharged and the tablet was at 26%. We connected both devices using a USB cable to the BigBlue SolarPowa 20 and gave the panel 3 hours to charge. During the test, we experienced several large clouds obstructing the sun from panel for short periods and estimate full sun for about half of the charging time.

At the end of 3 hours hours, the phone battery charged from 0 to 63% and the tablet charged from 26% to 81%. We didn’t use the devices during the charge, but background tasks continued including messaging and emails.

Conclusion

We found the BigBlue SolarPowa 20 to be a light weight, easy to deploy solution when we need USB power for our communications and entertainment devices. Even in less than optimal sun, the panel provided enough power to charge our devices with power to finish our day of travel.

Our thanks to BigBlue for providing the device for our evaluation. We have provided helpful links below for more information about this unit and how to purchase for your next RV outing.

BigBlue SolarPowa 20 solar USB charger

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: BigBlue SolarPowa 20 – Solar USB Charger

RV Water Heater Troubleshooting and Repair

RV Water Heater Troubleshooting and Repair


RV Water Heater Troubleshooting and Repair

by Jerry Neal | Sep 16, 2023

RV Water Heater Troubleshooting and Repair

We started the day with no hot water when connected to the campground power and using the 120V power option for the water heater. Fortunately, we were able to use the propane switch and the water heater functioned well. For most RV water heaters, the parts that are most likely to fail are easy to test and replace if needed. This held true for our 12 Gallon Suburban Advantage Tank Water Heater model 5146A/F. Now it was time for RV water heater troubleshooting and repair.

Troubleshooting An RV Water Heater

We’ve all forgot to turn on the water heater when we arrive at the campground. This was the most obvious starting point. I checked to ensure both the 120V water heater switch was on and the breaker feeding the water heater had not tripped. Both were on and still no hot water.  Next step was troubleshooting the water heater components.

The components mostly likely to fail are the 120V water heater element or the thermostat switch. Starting with the water heater element, first ensure no AC or DC power is going the water heater. If the unit has been heating with propane, give the water heater time to cool.

testing rv water heater elementWe removed the heating element cover and use a digital voltmeter set to AC voltage to ensure no AC power is going to the heater element. Once confirmed, I removed one power lead from the electric heater element, set the digital meter to OHMS, and placed the probes on each heater element. We had a reading of 10 OHMS indicating a functional heater element.

Our next step was to test the 120 volt thermostat switch. On the 12 Gallon Suburban Advantage Tank Water Heater model 5146A/F there are two thermostat switches. This can be found near the top of the water heater with two rubber inserts used to reset the switches if overheating occurs. With the cover removed you’ll find the 12V thermostat switch on the right and the 120V on the left. The 12V has a wide, flat conductor running top to bottom and the 120V has a thin wire located in the same place.

testing rv water heater thermostat switchFirst we found the power wire located at the bottom of the 120V thermostat switch had overheated and some of the insulation wire was burned. We removed the wire and tested the switch with the digital voltmeter. The bottom of the switch has two tabs, one where the power wire connects and the second with a soldered wire going to the top of the switch. I set the digital volt meter to OHMS and placed a lead on each post. A working switch will read a short, zero on the digital voltmeter. If the switch has failed, the reading will be low or open depending on the voltmeter’s display. Our reading was low indicating a bad switch.

It was time to order parts and begin the repair.

Repairing An RV Water Heater

suburban 232306 thermostat switch model 232306We ordered a new Suburban 232306 Thermostat Switch, Model: 232306 from Amazon. Looking at the back of the thermostat switch ensure you see the 2306 before ordering. Replacing the switch was simple, slip off the power wires, remove the center nut, pull off the old thermostat switch and reverse the process to install the new unit. Make sure the nut is tight to create a thermal bond between the water tank and the switch, but do not over tighten and risk breaking the threaded stud from the tank.

We also suspect the power wire either rubbed the metal edge and the wire shorted, or the power connector wasn’t tight causing overheating, but most likely the thermostat switch overheated causing the wire to burn before the switch completely failed. We replaced the connector, reconnected all wires, replaced all the covers, and it was time to turn on the 120V switch to the water heater and see if our repairs worked.

RV Water Heater Troubleshooting And Repair Results

Our RV water heater troubleshooting and repair was a success. Turning the 120V power to the water heater and waiting about an hour, hot water had returned. The troubleshooting process discussed took less than 30 minutes. With Amazon Prime, we had the Suburban 232306 Thermostat Switch, Model: 232306 in two days and the repairs took less than an hour.

If you have basic skills using small tools, RV water heater troubleshooting and repair is simple. The two most common parts to fail are inexpensive. At the time of this blog, the Suburban 232306 Thermostat Switch, Model: 232306 was $16 and if the heating element failed, its cost would have been $20. With a few minutes of troubleshooting and repair we were able to have 120V heated water again.

If using tools and wiring isn’t your skill set and a RV technician is needed, this is one of the lessor cost repairs for parts with labor being the higher cost component.

The video below shows our step-by-step process to troubleshoot and repair. I’ve also included helpful links below for parts, tools, and our blog showing how to use a digital voltmeter.

rv water heater troubleshooting and repair

Helpful Links:

How To Use A Digital Voltmeter

Crenova MS8233D Digital Multimeter

Klein Tools 32500 11-in-1 Screwdriver

Suburban 232306 Thermostat Switch, Model: 232306

520900 RV Water Heater Element For Suburban RV SW Series Electric Water HeaterRV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: RV Water Heater Troubleshooting and Repair

The Calm Before The Storm – Daytona Beach and Idalia

The Calm Before The Storm – Daytona Beach and Idalia


The Calm Before The Storm – Daytona Beach and Idalia

by Jerry Neal | Sep 1, 2023

It was the Monday before Labor Day 2023 in Daytona Beach, FL and the calm before the storm. Hurricane Idalia was starting to make progress north from Cuba and the weather reports were the possibility of making landfall on Wednesday along the section of the Florida Panhandle known as the Bend. On this Monday, the sky was clear, a gentle breeze and it was a great time to take an ebike ride from the campground to the beach and back. In the video below I share the beach repair progress from last years Hurricane Ian along with the great views of Daytona Beach.

Daytona Beach Hurricane Repair Progress

Joan and I return to Daytona Beach, FL each quarter to visit our son who lives in the area. We were in Daytona Beach last September 2022 weeks before Hurricane Ian struck the coast and created substantial damage to many of the condos, hotels, homes and businesses that stretch along Hwy A1A from Ormand Beach south to New Symrna Beach. Buildings were damaged, but the big impact was the result of the sea walls failing along the beach.

In the video below we show the repair progress as well as shots from the beautiful Daytona Beach. We also share tips for those interested in visiting the area especially during the “shoulder season” periods.

Daytona Beach and Hurricane Idalia

For most of the Daytona Beach area south faired well during Hurricane Idalia. We were fortunate to only experience some moderate wind gusts that lasted from sundown on Tuesday and continued for most of the day Wednesday.

For those along the west coast of Florida and through the pan handle we pray for your safety and a speedy recovery.

calm before the storm Daytona Beach and Hurricane Idalia

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: The Calm Before The Storm – Daytona Beach and Idalia

E-bike in the Great Smoky Mountains – CyCrown E-bikes

E-bike in the Great Smoky Mountains – CyCrown E-bikes


E-bike in the Great Smoky Mountains – CyCrown E-bikes

by Jerry Neal | Aug 26, 2023

Our daughter Julie and her husband Josh along with the grandkids camp each year at the Smoky Mountain Campground located just outside of Bryson City, NC. The campground is located at the Deep Creek entrance of the Great Smoky Mountain Nation Park and is a favorite for tubers along with the many trails for hikers and bikes. We wanted them to have an extras special time and thought it would be fun to share our CyCrown CyFree so they could e-bike in the Great Smoky Mountains. In the video below Julie shares their experience with the e-bike along with many of the beautiful views along Deep Creek.

CyCrown CyFree E-Bike

On this years trip we shared the CyCrown CyFree, a 20″ fat tire foldable e-bike with a 750W motor, dual front shock absorbers, along with Shimano 7-Speed gears to make the most difficult hill climbs easy. We’ve found the CyCrown CyFree to be one of the more affordable e-bikes for RV travelers yet very well built and wide range of features and options. We especially like the folding feature allowing us to easily store the e-bike in our 5th wheel storage area.

Smoky Mountain Campground

Joan and I understand why Julie, Josh and family love the Smoky Mountain Campground located in the community of Deep Creek, NC. This campground provides a family friendly environment located along the edge of Deep Creek, a favorite North Carolina tubing location. The campground is located at the Deep Creek entrance of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and tubers can walk, bike, or drive along the creek for a long float through the park to the campground. Aside from the tubing, there are great trails, waterfalls as well as an abundance of nature for those perfect camping pictures.

We appreciate CyCrown providing the e-bike for our evaluation. If you’re interested in purchasing a CyFree or one of the other CyCrown e-bikes, we’ve provided helpful links below.

e-bike in the smoky mountains

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: E-bike in the Great Smoky Mountains – CyCrown E-bikes

9 Tips To Help Maintain Your RV Black Tank

9 Tips To Help Maintain Your RV Black Tank


9 Tips To Help Maintain Your RV Black Tank

by Jerry Neal | Aug 19, 2023

Using your RV blank tank does not have to be scary. Whether you’re a seasoned RV traveler or new to the world of camping, understanding how to maintain your RV black tank is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. From our 10 years of RV travel, we have created 9 tips to help you maintain your RV black tank. By following these tips you can to have a clean and well-maintained black tank so you can fully enjoy your RV travels without any unwanted odors or problems.

In the video below, we’ll walk you through the process of cleaning your RV’s black tank, provide expert tips, step-by-step instructions, and share answers to many of the RV black tank questions received from our YouTube comments or iLoveRVlife website contact page.

RV Black Tank Topics Covered In The Video

  1. Take care of your black tank – RV toilet paper, enzymes, and cleaning products.
  2. Your black tank needs water.
  3. Never leave your black tank dump valve open.
  4. Cleaning your black tank sensors.
  5. Black tank hoses and connectors.
  6. The 5 gallon bucket method.
  7. Black tank hose storage.
  8. Managing black tank hose storage container odor.
  9. Using a portable camper tote. a.ka. The Blue Boy

So don’t fear the RV black tank. With our 9 tips to help you maintain your RV black tank video, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to keep your RV in top condition.

9 tips to help maintain your RV black tank

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: 9 Tips To Help Maintain Your RV Black Tank

Goldenmate 200Ah Lithium Battery – Great Value LiFePO4

Goldenmate 200Ah Lithium Battery – Great Value LiFePO4


Goldenmate 200Ah Lithium Battery – Great Value LiFePO4

by Jerry Neal | Aug 12, 2023

Over the last year of RV travel, we have become big fans of lithium batteries. We have reviewed a number of lithium battery manufacturers and had a great response finding quality products. The problem has been cost. Many viewers of our YouTube channel and from the responses from this website contact page have asked if there were others lithium options that were affordable. Our search lead use to the Goldenmate 200Ah Lithium Battery. This battery is well built, has the features that most need for RV travel, and at the time of this blog, one of the most affordable lithium batteries in the 200Ah category.

Why Use Lithium Batteries for RV Travel?

Lithium batteries are a great option to power the 12 volt devices in an RV and very proficient when it comes to powering traditional 120 volt AC appliances using an inverter. Much lighter that lead acid batteries, with zero maintenance, and where lead acid batteries can be discharged to 50% before damaging the cells, a lithium battery can be safely discharged to 90%.

The Goldenmate 200Ah Lithium Battery

The Goldenmate 200Ah Lithium Battery is a 12V LiFePO4 battery suitable for high-load and long-duration applications. Out testing found the performance was perfect for RV/outdoor camping. The LiFePO4 battery can withstand 5000+ cycles, which is more than 10 times the cycle life of traditional lead-acid batteries. The battery come with a built-in Battery Management System to safeguard against overcharging, over-discharging, overcurrent, overheating, and short circuits.

Features

Electrical Specifications
Nominal Voltage: 12.8V
Nominal Capacity: 200Ah (0.2C, 25°C)
Energy: 2560Wh
Resistance: ≤30mh
Cell Type: LiFePO₄

Mechanical Specifications
Dimensions: 20.55”L*9.45”W*8.58”H
Weight: 57.32LBS
Case Materials : ABS

Charge Specifications
Charge Voltage: 14.4V
Standard Charge Current: 40A
Maximum Charge Current: 100A

Discharge Specifications
Maximum Continuous Discharge Current: 120A
Discharge Cut-Off Voltage: About 10V

Temperature Specifications
Charge Temperature: 32 ℉ – 122 ℉
Discharge Temperature: -4 ℉ – 140 ℉
Storage Temperature: 32 ℉ – 112 ℉

We found the Goldenmate 200Ah Lithium Battery to be a cost effective and well performing battery for RV travel. As a standalone battery, there was ample capacity to power all the devices in the RV including our large residential refrigerator on long tows with power to spare.

Our thanks to Goldenmate for providing the lithium battery for our review. See the helpful links below if you would like to learn more or purchase a Goldenmate lithium battery for your RV travel needs.

Goldenmate 200Ah lithium battery

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Goldenmate 200Ah Lithium Battery – Great Value LiFePO4

Stone Mountain Park Historic Square

Stone Mountain Park Historic Square


Stone Mountain Park Historic Square

by Jerry Neal | Aug 5, 2023

If you’re seeking a journey through time, a visit to the Stone Mountain Park Historic Square is a must. Located in the center of Stone Mountain Park, this historic square offers a glimpse into the past. The Square contains a collections of building moved from a number of Georgia locations that were built between 1792 and 1875. Each building was moved and was carefully restored to much of it original state along with a collection of furnishing that were contained in the original house.

The Evolution of Stone Mountain Park Historic Square

Located on the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia, the Stone Mountain Park Historic Square is a unique destination for history enthusiasts, families, and curious minds alike. This well-preserved area offers a window into the past, taking visitors back in time for a glimpse of life as it was in the 1800’s.

The Historic Square within Stone Mountain Park showcases the evolution of Southern culture and architecture. From its humble beginnings, it has grown into a meticulously curated representation of the past. The square’s buildings, pathways, and decor all reflect the changing times and the merging of cultures that shaped the region.

Some of the Historic Square Buildings:

  • Allen House from Bartow County, GA – Circa 1845
  • Dr. Chapmon Powell’s Cabin from Dekalb County, GA – Circa 1826
  • Thorton House from Greene County, GA – Circa 1792
  • Davis House from Calhoun, GA – Circa 1856
  • Powell Academy Schoolhouse from Dekalb County, GA – Circa 1875

As we toured the Historic Square, it was as though we stepped into a time machine. I’m a huge fan of 1800 architecture and seeing the construction of each home was a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. Viewing each home, I had to admire the intricate details of furniture, textiles, and household items that were an part of daily life in bygone era.

Visiting Stone Mountain Park

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Stone Mountain Park, the Historic Square is an ideal starting point for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in breathtaking views, the park offers a multitude of outdoor activities.

This living museum captures the essence of Southern heritage and invites you to be a part of its ongoing story. The Stone Mountain Park Historic Square isn’t just for entertainment – it’s a valuable educational resource with an experience that makes history come alive.

Stone Mountain Park

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Stone Mountain Park Historic Square

3 Great Outdoor Meals on the Monument Grill

3 Great Outdoor Meals on the Monument Grill


3 Great Outdoor Meals on the Monument Grill

by Jerry Neal | Jul 29, 2023

When we travel in our 5th wheel, we enjoy our grilling time. Over the years of RV travel we have tried a number of portable gas grills. We are on the road for over half of the year and longer, and use our portable grill weekly. From our last live YouTube broadcast, I mentioned we cook often in our travels and many commented they wanted to see what we cook. We thought it would be fun to show 3 great outdoor meals on the Monument Grill.

We’ve used and burned out more grills than we can count with the biggest issue being the burners usually lasting less than a year. Good news is we found Monument Grills. We have been using a Monument Grill for over a year and other than heavy use, it’s works as good as new. And if we have issues, it’s easy to purchase spare parts and they are reasonably priced.

In the video, we show two Monument Gas Grills. Don’t fast forward the video! We have a number of tips, plus our son Joel is a great chef and he shared some of his cooking tips. And as promised in the video, here is Joel’s Steak Marinade.

Joel’s Steak Marinade

  • 1 1/2 Cup Seet Red Wine
  • 1 1/2 Cup Italian Dressing
  • 1 Cup Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1/2 Cup Soy Sauce
  • 1/2 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1/4 Cup Lemon Juice
  • 2 Tbls Franks Hot Sauce
  • 1 Tbls Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tbls Onion Powder
  • 1 Tbls Kosher Salt

Stir briskly. Set in refrigerator for 1 hour before use. Marinade steaks 4 hours before grilling.

I mentioned we show two grills in the video. Along with the G22 Tabletop Grill, we also show the Mesa 400. Traveling in June and July, we noticed a number of RVs camping together. These large groups would gather nightly and cookout. Each brought a large residential style grill along to have ample cooking space. We liked the idea and being that we have had great results with the G22 Tabletop Grill, we contacted Monument to try their Mesa 400 4-burner grill.

Below are the features for both grills shown in the video.

Monument G22 | Stainless 2 Burner Tabletop Gas Grill

Monument G2 Tabletop GrillStainless steel body for easy cleaning and long-lasting quality. Two main stainless-steel burners with a total of 15,000 BTUs deliver fast and even heat and a great grilling experience. The design of the large front handle, locking lid, and four legs make this grill very portable, and easy to transport or store.

Features

  • Burners: Two independently controlled 304 stainless steel burners with 15,000 BTU to deliver powerful heat. Stainless flame tamers ensure even heat delivering great flavors.
  • Clear view lid is made of high heat tested, tempered glass that allows you to keep an eye on what you are cooking without letting heat out by opening the lid 200 square inches of the total cooking area offers plenty of grilling space.
  • Stainless steel cooking grates designed for even cooking.
  • Lightweight and Portable: Small in size, can be put RV storage area, ideal for outdoor cooking, camping, or traveling.
  • Versatile: Includes 40-inch hose to connect to 20lb Propane Tank(tank not included).
  • Easy to assemble and clean: Start a BBQ experience immediately without spending much time assembling. The removable drip tray and stainless-steel body are easy to clean after a barbecue.

Mesa 400 | 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill

Monument Mesa 400 Gas GrillFour burner gas grill upgraded with a viewing window keeps the slick design. High quality stainless classic sturdy design for durability, 4+1 burner design with 690 sq. cooking area plus 60,000 BTU keep the fast and even heat all the time.

Features

  • Burners: Four main 304 stainless steel burners and one stainless steel side burner with a total of 60,000 BTUs. Stainless flame tamers ensure even heat delivering great flavors.
  • Cooking Space: 690 square inches of the total cooking area. 480 square inches of primary cooking area and 210 square inches of warming rack area.
  • Grates: Porcelain cast-iron cooking grates designed for even cooking.
  • Construction: 430 stainless steel lid, firebox, door, and side shelves.
  • LED Control Knobs for increased visibility at night.
  • Electronic ignition system for easy burner starts.

Our thanks to Monument Gas Grills sending us the new G22 Table Top Grill and the Mesa 400 Gas for our review.  See the helpful links below for more information about these and other Monument Grills.

3 great outdoor meals on the monument grill

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: 3 Great Outdoor Meals on the Monument Grill

Stone Mountain Park GA – Campground, Great Nature, Fun Attractions

Stone Mountain Park GA – Campground, Great Nature, Fun Attractions


Stone Mountain Park GA – Campground, Great Nature, Fun Attractions

by Jerry Neal | Jul 22, 2023

Stone Mountain Park is a natural wonderland located just a short drive away from the center of downtown Atlanta, Georgia. The park spans over 3,200 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities and attractions. Whether you prefer RV camping with full hook-up sites or pitching a tent, Stone Mountain Campground offers a fun camping experience, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of Stone Mountain itself.

But, camping is just part of the experience at Stone Mountain Park. There is so much for the entire family to experience from hiking in nature, the trek to the top of Stone Mountain, great bike trails, fishing, nightly laser shows on the lawn, historic sites, two championship golf courses, ride the scenic railroad, visit the kids attraction park, and so much more.

Stone Mountain Campground

There are multiple campgrounds that range from large paved, full hook-up, big rig friendly sites, those that surround the pool and kids activity area, large wooded spots, tent camping along the edge of the lake, even yurts and camper rentals.

In the video below, we take you along for a brief review though some of the campgrounds. There are a wide variety of campgrounds with over 400 sites offering a wide variety of camping experiences. Site range from:

  • Very large “glamping” spots along the edge of the lake,
  • Big rig friendly, heavy wooded full hook-up sites,
  • Large and small sites around the pool and kid’s play area,
  • Wooded water and electric sites,
  • Beautiful tent sites along the lake, and
  • Yurt and camper rentals.

We had no problem finding a site in the mid-priced campground for our 42 foot Montana 5th wheel. Our site was located in L campground with wooded and graveled sites, full 50 amp hook-up with cable, picnic table, and grill. We liked the design of the campground providing ample space between the RVs along with the heavy wooded area giving us relief from the hot summer sun.

Stone Mountain Park Sites and Activities

In the video below we share some of the sites and activities we experienced during our stay. We had great bike rides, a stop at the old Grist Mill, on to the quarry exhibit, then off to lawn for a view of the mountain, the Stone Mountain Museum at Memorial Hall, and some of the attractions for the kids.

Here is a list of the some of the many amenities to experience at Stone Mountain Park.

  • Summit Skyride to the top of Stone Mountain
  • Historic Square: A Collection Of Georgia Homes and Antiques
  • Scenic Railroad: A 5 mile ride around Stone Mountain in open-air cars pulled by a full-size locomotive from the 1940’s.
  • Miniature golf course
  • 4D Theater
  • Geyser Splash Pad
  • Camp Highland Outpost: With rock walls to climb and a low ropes course with multiple line bridges
  • SkyHike®: Experience treetops on one of the nation’s largest family adventure courses
  • Fishing in Stone Mountain Lake
  • Two 18-Hole golf courses
  • Abundance of walk, Jog and bike trails
  • Visit the Covered bridge, a historical pine and cedar bridge
  • Tour the grounds of the centuries old Grist Mill
  • And so much more!

Stone Mountain Park is one of those special destinations that Joan and I enjoy visiting again and again. The Park is that special place to escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its wide variety of campground offerings, the picturesque surroundings, a extensive list of recreational activities, and the many fun family attractions, it promises an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Stone Mountain Park

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Stone Mountain Park GA – Campground, Great Nature, Fun Attractions

Joel’s 1st e-bike ride

Joel’s 1st e-bike ride


Joel’s 1st e-bike ride

by Jerry Neal | Jul 15, 2023

Thinking about your first e-bike? View the short video below of our son Joel’s 1st e-bike ride. And in true fashion, Joel likes to go all out and push the limits. His suggestion was “Hey Pops, let’s ride 30 miles!” And that’s exactly what we did.

The Florida Rails to Trails

We found a great trail, The Florida Rails to Trails, that started on the edge of New Smyrna Beach, FL and stretched to Titusville. As much as we want to go end -to-end on the trails, we road the e-bikes for 30 miles on this hot summer day. A beautiful ride with great scenery and abundance of wildlife. The trail is paved and there are virtually no hills, just a great ride to experience nature at its best.

HOVSCO HOVBeta

Joel road Joan’s new purple HOVSCO HOVBeta e-bike. The HOVSCO HOVBeta is a great companion for RV travel. This e-bike is foldable, portable and storable is a step-through style. We found the HOVBeta easiy to fold and place in our 5th wheel storage bay. With 4″ fat tires, a front suspension fork, and a 750W motor, we found the HovBeta preformed exceptionally well on pavement as well recent mountain trail runs.

Features include:

  • 750w Upgraded hub motor
  • 720Wh Samsung/LG battery
  • Weighs 66.4 lbs
  • Speeds up to 28mph after downloading app
  • Capable range of 60 miles on a single charge
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • SHIMANO 7 speed shift
  • 5 torque sensor pedal assist settings
  • Throttle on demand

Our thanks to HOVSCO providing the HOVSCO e-bike for our evaluation. If you’re interested in purchasing one of HOVSCO quality e-bikes, see the helpful links below.

Joel's 1st e-bike ride

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Joel’s 1st e-bike ride

North Georgia Farm Stands, Honey and Fireworks

North Georgia Farm Stands, Honey and Fireworks


North Georgia Farm Stands, Honey and Fireworks

by Jerry Neal | Jul 8, 2023

One of the RV travel adventures that Joan and I enjoy during the summer months is visiting farms and the large farmers markets. During our recent trip, we visited several North Georgia Farms and Farm Stands that were outstanding. Our first stop was Jaemor Farms located on Hwy 23 near Lula, GA. Our second stop was as Allison’s Honey & Vineyard just a short drive from our stay at Leisure Acres Campground. And our last stop was one of our favorites, the Tomato House located on Hwy 115 halfway between Cleveland and Dahlonega, GA.

In our video, we also share a few short excepts from Leisure Acres Campground annual Freedom fest. This was a fun afternoon into the evening event with a powerful patriot theme along with one of the largest fireworks displays held in North Georgia.

Jaemor Farms

This was our first trip to Jaemor Farms and it did not disappoint. The farmers market is adjacent to one of the family farms a few miles north on Hwy 23 near Lula, GA. The farm has been in the family since 1912 growing fresh fruits and produce.

The stalls were loaded with all of our favorites along with an extensive selection of local jams, jellies, salsas, fresh bread and so much more. We cheated a little before we left and visited their cafe offering sandwiches, homemade fried pies and soft ice cream. Oh and the cheat – we had fried apple pie and peach ice cream for lunch.

Allison’s Honey & Vineyard

Allison’s Honey was another first and we thought this visit would be to satisfy our honey craving, but we also found an assortment of estate wines and mead.

We spent a few hours talking with our host about the wide assortment of delicious honeys, plus sampled there latest meads and wine. We did walk away with the standard wild flower and sour wood honeys, but my new favorite was mimosa honey.

The Tomato House

We have been visiting the Tomato House for sometime. Just a few miles from our annual visit at Leisure Acres Campground in Cleveland, GA, we affectionately refer to The Tomato House as Farmers Market eclectic.

Joan always has to stop outside first to investigate all of the mountain decorations for our porch and yard. Then as we walk inside we find a wide assortment of fresh produce and so much more. Our first stop is the wine area to see if we can find any deals on some of our favorite North Georgia wines, and yes we found the deals. Then its off to buy some of the unique jams, salsas, sauces and so much more. If we really want to treat ourselves, we visit the meat counter and have a thick steak cut from their hand select Iowa beef.

Freedom Fest at Leisure Acres Campground

For more than 10 years, John and Peggy Morris, the owners of Leisure Acres Campground have created a patriotic celebration that is held the week before the 4th of July. We were invited this year to attend where we provided a the video services for a Facebook live event on the Leisure Acres Campground Facebook page. We will include a link to the video in the Helpful Links below. The event includes a number of vendors offering various fanfare along with great food. Also, there is a wide assortment of inflatables for the kids.

The 5 hour celebration provided a mixture of single and group acts with contemporary Christian themed music and touching patriotic presentations including a tribute to all who served in the various branches of the military. The grand finally was one of the largest fireworks displays held in North Georgia. It was a great evening for the several thousands who attended.

I’ve provided links below for the places visited and the video from Leisure Acres Freedom Fest.

north georgia farms video

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: North Georgia Farm Stands, Honey and Fireworks

Using the ActiveStart Soft Start 50 Amp

Using the ActiveStart Soft Start 50 Amp


Using the ActiveStart Soft Start 50 Amp

by Jerry Neal | Jul 1, 2023

Traditional RV power systems often face significant stress when starting high-demand appliances such as air conditioners or refrigerators. The Active Control ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start, significantly reduces this high amperage in-rush. The soft start feature gently ramps up the power preventing sudden high amperage spikes caused by the demands of appliance compressors when connected to portable generators, 30 Amp campground pedestals, or a 15 Amp home circuit.

Energy Efficiency

The ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start is designed with energy efficiency in mind. By gradually introducing power to an RV’s electrical system, it prevents high amperage surges caused by the compressors found in appliances such air conditioners and refrigerators. This is beneficial when the RV is connected to a small generator or 30 Amp campground power. Minimizing this surge prevents small generators for going into overload or a tripped circuit breaker in the campground 30 Amp connection. With this in-rush surge eliminated, other 120V devices can be used within the parameters of the amperage available without overloading the power connections.

Compact and Easy Installation

The ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start is designed for hassle-free RV installation. The ActiveStart is universal and can be used with any 50 Amp RV, or connected to 30 Amp power with a 30-50 Amp adapter, or connected to most common household circuits with a 15-50 Amp adapter.

No wiring is required. This plug-in unit is completely self contained with two soft start devices each serving both 50 Amp L1 and L2 circuits. No costly external wiring to the air conditioners are required. Just plug the unit into a generator or campground power and the soft start function is ready to use.

Enhanced Power Management

Another benefit of the ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start is its enhance power management capability. This all-in-one power management device not only provides a 50A RV soft start capability, but also provide surge protection and energy management. The unit will monitor system health including current, voltage, and frequency. An easy to use mobile app is available for iOS and Android giving real time readings of power used for each 50A leg.

Cost-Effective Solution

When compared to hard wire soft start solutions, the ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start provides a competitive solution. Adding up the cost for two hardwired soft starts, installation of each by a qualified RV technician, along with the Bluetooth power management and surge protection, and the ability to use with any RV, the ActiveStart 50 Amp is a great option for the RV traveler.

ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start Specifications

  • Inputs: L1, L2, N and Ground
  • Nominal Voltage: 120-230 VAC, 50-60 Hz
  • Over Voltage Limits: 132 VAC per leg
  • Under Voltage Limits: 103 VAC per leg
  • Surge Protection: 5250 Joules
  • Current: Maximum nominal= 50 Amps
  • Over Current Limits: ACS50xx = 53A
  • Operating Temperature: -4ºF to 176ºF (-20ºC to 80ºC)
  • Storage Temperature: -40ºF to 149ºF (-20ºC to 65ºC)
  • Humidity: 5-95% Non-condensing.
  • Weight: 3 Lbs. (1.36kg)
  • Warranty: One year limited warranty (standard)

The ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start is an essential component for any RV traveler looking to optimize their power management and enhance their overall RV experience. With its ability to mitigate power surges, reduce electrical stress, improve energy efficiency, and protect sensitive electronics and appliances, the ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start complete energy management package provided in a simple to use plug-able device.

We have provided the video below with our testing results of this unit. Our thanks to Active Control for providing the ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start for our evaluation. If you are interested in knowing more about the Active Control Soft Start units, see our helpful links below.

Traditional RV power systems often face significant stress when starting high-demand appliances such as air conditioners or refrigerators. The Active Control ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start, significantly reduces this high amperage in-rush. The soft start feature gently ramps up the power preventing sudden high amperage spikes caused by the demands of appliance compressors when connected to portable generators, 30 Amp campground pedestals, or a 15 Amp home circuit.

Energy Efficiency

The ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start is designed with energy efficiency in mind. By gradually introducing power to an RV’s electrical system, it prevents high amperage surges caused by the compressors found in appliances such air conditioners and refrigerators. This is beneficial when the RV is connected to a small generator or 30 Amp campground power. Minimizing this surge prevents small generators for going into overload or a tripped circuit breaker in the campground 30 Amp connection. With this in-rush surge eliminated, other 120V devices can be used within the parameters of the amperage available without overloading the power connections.

Compact and Easy Installation

The ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start is designed for hassle-free RV installation. The ActiveStart is universal and can be used with any 50 Amp RV, or connected to 30 Amp power with a 30-50 Amp adapter, or connected to most common household circuits with a 15-50 Amp adapter.

No wiring is required. This plug-in unit is completely self contained with two soft start devices each serving both 50 Amp L1 and L2 circuits. No costly external wiring to the air conditioners are required. Just plug the unit into a generator or campground power and the soft start function is ready to use.

Enhanced Power Management

Another benefit of the ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start is its enhance power management capability. This all-in-one power management device not only provides a 50A RV soft start capability, but also provide surge protection and energy management. The unit will monitor system health including current, voltage, and frequency. An easy to use mobile app is available for iOS and Android giving real time readings of power used for each 50A leg.

Cost-Effective Solution

When compared to hard wire soft start solutions, the ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start provides a competitive solution. Adding up the cost for two hardwired soft starts, installation of each by a qualified RV technician, along with the Bluetooth power management and surge protection, and the ability to use with any RV, the ActiveStart 50 Amp is a great option for the RV traveler.

ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start Specifications

  • Inputs: L1, L2, N and Ground
  • Nominal Voltage: 120-230 VAC, 50-60 Hz
  • Over Voltage Limits: 132 VAC per leg
  • Under Voltage Limits: 103 VAC per leg
  • Surge Protection: 5250 Joules
  • Current: Maximum nominal= 50 Amps
  • Over Current Limits: ACS50xx = 53A
  • Operating Temperature: -4ºF to 176ºF (-20ºC to 80ºC)
  • Storage Temperature: -40ºF to 149ºF (-20ºC to 65ºC)
  • Humidity: 5-95% Non-condensing.
  • Weight: 3 Lbs. (1.36kg)
  • Warranty: One year limited warranty (standard)

The ActiveStart 50amp Soft Start is an essential component for any RV traveler looking to optimize their power management and enhance their overall RV experience. With its ability to mitigate power surges, reduce electrical stress, improve energy efficiency, and protect sensitive electronics and appliances, the ActiveStart 50 Amp Soft Start complete energy management package provided in a simple to use plug-able device.

We have provided the video below with our testing results of this unit. Our thanks to Active Control for providing the ActiveStart 50amp Soft Start for our evaluation. If you are interested in knowing more about the Active Control Soft Start units, see our helpful links below.

softstart 50 amp

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Using the ActiveStart Soft Start 50 Amp

12 Tips From a Seasoned RV Traveler

12 Tips From a Seasoned RV Traveler


12 Tips From a Seasoned RV Traveler

by Jerry Neal | Jun 24, 2023

Joan and I have been traveling in an RV for almost 10 years and covered many thousands of miles. Prior to our RV travels I was a large infrastructure telecommunications engineer and operations specialist and traveled throughout the US, Canada, Central America, and the Caribbean with over 2 million air miles and many thousands of hotel stays. Having this experience we have developed a number of tasks that we rely on for our RV travel. I’ll be brief with each tip for the reader of this blog, provide a description, and hope you’ll watch the video for more information. The video covers each tip along with steps and our experiences as to why these are important. We hope you find our 12 Tips From a Seasoned RV Traveler helpful.

The 12 Tips From a Seasoned RV Traveler

1.Plan Your Trip

There are a number of factors why it’s important to plan your trip. Popular campgrounds fill up quick especially during holidays or for those popular locations. If traveling on a long trip, it’s important to know the distances traveling each day and ensure you have an overnight stop or enjoy a few days off the road to recoup and take in a few sites.

2. Follow the 330 Rule

We learned this rule quickly during our first year of travel. The 330 rule is to stop at the campground at 3:30 in the afternoon or after 330 miles of travel, whichever comes first. Of course there are times this is exceeded, but we try to make these rare occasions. The rule reduces travel fatigue and provides time to arrive at the campground during daylight hours to park and set up the RV.

3. Prepare Your RV and Your Tow Vehicle Before The Trip

When it comes to preparing your RV and tow vehicle before a trip we’ve found it’s a best practice to have a checklist of those important tasks to complete before travel. It’s easy to get busy or distracted and then when arriving at the campground something was forgotten or a task was overlooked. In the video we address some of the more important items to consider before leaving on you next RV adventure.

4. Weather Plans

What to do during rainy days? Preparing things to entertain the kids if a day or two are washed out. No kids traveling with you? Ok, we still need to get out of the small space if nothing more than dining out or a short stop during the day at one of the local shops. And what if the pending weather is sever? A plan B is very important to salvage the trip and ensure everyone’s safety.

5. Postponing Travel

Postponing RV travel happens. It’s unfortunate, but life can get in the way. A health issue rises, a family emergency, there are those events not planned, but require action that can cancel or require the trip to be rescheduled. Before making a reservation, understand the terms and conditions for canceling or postponing the stay. The more popular locations may have a no cancellation policy, or may be have forfeit of deposit, or a fee to rescheduled.

6. Campground Research

Yes, we’ve gotten burnt in our RV travels trusting the campgrounds website and not doing our research. We use Google and TripAdvisor reviews first knowing these are not sponsored by the campground. We use the “9 or of 10 rule” when we read the reviews and consider what was said in the negative comments. We use the campground review apps and websites as well, but compare these along with the other reviews mentions for the best picture.

7. Distractions are a Potential for Disaster

It’s of the most importance that we pay attention to the road as we drive these long and very heavy RVs. We have to remember that it can take several hundred feet to stop and adding a few seconds in response while being distracted can be the difference in safely avoiding a bad situation or a driving into a disaster. Stay off the tech and use your co-pilot. Both will allow you to focus on the road.

8. Travel With Empty Tanks

We should always travel with empty black and gray tanks. There’s no reason to leave a campground with full tanks. And consider traveling with empty water tanks. Water weighs 8.34 lbs per gallon and a full tank impacts gas mileage and adds wear and tear to the RV. Consider using the gallon jug method we discuss in the video. We’ve done this for most of our travel and never had an issue.

9. Managing Your RV Weight

When it comes to managing your RV weight we recommend a vehicle’s tow capacity that exceeds the RV weight by 30% or more. This will ensure there’s both power to climb those long and steep inclines and give added weight and break capacity as the RV pushes the tow vehicle back down the incline. Also, don’t exceed the weight of the RV. It adds up quickly with full propane tanks, food, and all the items brought along for the trip.

10. Sticks and Bricks Chores

Start these chores a week to 10 days before the trip. Waiting till the last minute adds stress and fatigue to the beginning of the trip. In the video we share a number of items and why each are important.

11. One Year Clutter Review

I think it’s part of human nature. We just allow things not used to build up for that “just in case”. The problem is just in case never occurs and we end up with clutter and in some cases, added weight to our RV. We have a rule that if we haven’t used in a year, then we either give away or store at home. This doesn’t apply to emergency items or important tools.

12. Communications

It’s important to share your travel itinerary with a trusted family member or friend. Give them copies, write it down, or in our case we have our travel dates added to a Google Calendar and in the information area we add the campground address and phone number. The calendar also gives us the ability to share with that trusted family member or friend. We also use the locate app on our phones with the same family or friend. They can see where we are in real time in case we haven’t checked in along our travels. There are times when RV travel takes us to locations with no cell coverage. The Garmin InReach Mini 2 is a great device that uses satellite technology giving the ability to message, send SOS with location, and more at a very reasonable monthly price.

I hope you found these 12 tips from a seasoned RV traveler helpful. For more in depth discussion of each, watch the video below as we also share the importance from our RV travel experience. In the video we mention a number of other videos and blogs that you may find helpful on your RV travels. We provided these in the helpful links below.

12 tips from an rv traveler

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: 12 Tips From a Seasoned RV Traveler

Introduction to Insulating Your RV for Winter Comfort

Introduction to Insulating Your RV for Winter Comfort

If you will be doing any winter camping or winter RV living, proper insulation of your RV or camper is one of the most important factors to consider in order to not only keep your RV cozy inside but to protect your equipment against the harsh winter elements. There are several options available when it comes to insulating your RV against winter temperatures. Cost, ease of sourcing materials, bulky materials, and permanence of insulation are all common challenges that come along with insulating an RV for the winter. EZ Snap products are one solution to keeping the chill out that resolves many of these concerns.

Insulating Your RV for Winter Comfort

Comparing Common Insulation Types for Your RV

First, look at some common insulation types and their benefits. Foam board insulation is perhaps the easiest material to source. You can find foam board insulation at most home improvement stores, often with several sizes and thicknesses to choose from. While installing foam board insulation is not a permanent installation, the materials are quite bulky and bring with it the challenge of what to do with the foam board at the end of the season when spring comes again and it’s time to remove the insulation. 

Reflective insulation, while less bulky than foam board, is also a non-permanent solution. Reflective insulation can also be sourced at many home improvement stores and comes in rolls of various R-values. When removed in the spring, it again brings with it the challenge of what to do with the used insulation after it’s removed as it’s not simple to store for future re-use. 

Spray foam insulation is a more permanently installed insulation that is applied to the underbelly of the RV to help insulate the pipe against the elements. It can be quite costly to insulate the underbelly fully with spray foam and is also difficult to remove in the future should the need arise.

Insulating Your RV for Winter and Snow

Key Considerations for Choosing Insulation Materials

RV skirting does not require a high R-value to be effective in insulating your RV. The temperature differential between the inside and outside air beneath the RV is minimal due to the use of electric heaters, and the R-value savings would be insignificant. Furthermore, to achieve significant energy savings, RV skirting would need to be much thicker than it typically is. Stopping air movement is far more critical than R-value when it comes to RV skirting; a barrier to airflow alone is sufficient for most situations. In extreme winter climates, using rigid Styrofoam insulation board in conjunction with RV skirting is the most effective way to add insulation. Lastly, thermostatically controlled space heaters with built-in fans are the best heat source to use under RV skirting, as they only use energy when needed.

 

Foil Insulation versus EZ Snap Shades

Insulating Your RV: Windows, Doors, and Floors

Window Insulation: Reducing Heat Loss with EZ Snap Window Shades 

EZ Snap window shades are a valuable layer to your insulation equation as they help retain heat inside of the RV by adding a layer of insulation over your windows, protecting against the elements. Installation is simple with EZ Snap’s patented no-drill installation system. You can mount the fasteners to either the side panel, if it’s smooth and flat, or to the glass itself, cut the non-fray solar shading mesh to the size of each window, and install. (“EZ Snap”) 

Door Insulation: Proper Sealing and Weatherstripping 

Choosing the right weatherstripping material is another important factor to take into consideration. While some materials provide more insulation against cold temperatures, others are better suited to holding up against snow and ice or sub-zero temperatures. Thinking about the conditions where you live will help you choose the best material for your weatherstripping needs. Once you have selected your weather-stripping material, you’ll need to measure around your door to determine how much weather-stripping you will need. Next, you will cut the weatherstripping to size and allow a little excess to ensure that it will have a tight fit once installed. You can always trim it down later, if necessary. Finally, install the weatherstripping around the door, trim any necessary pieces that overlap, and test the door to ensure a proper seal with your new weatherstripping. (“How To Weatherstrip A Door the Right Way and Seal Gaps”) 

Floor Insulation: Essential for RV Comfort and Plumbing Protection 

Insulating your RV’s floors is an important step not only to help keep the chill out of your RV’s interior but also to help protect your RV’s plumbing system. Both freshwater and sewer pipes for your RV travel below the floor of your RV, so keeping those insulated also ensures that your plumbing system remains in tip-top shape throughout the cold winter months. To insulate your floors you could choose fiberglass, foam board, or spray foam insulation options. Each comes with varying costs, ease of installation, and the degree to which it provides insulation protection against the elements. While fiberglass insulation is the cheapest option, it’s the least suited for snow and wet weather which will require something like corrugated plastic to cover the fiberglass when you install it. Foamboard provides higher levels of installation but is the bulkiest and most costly of the three options. Spray foam insulation is more moderately priced but provides lesser protection against cold weather than foam board and is a more permanent solution. Choosing the best floor insulation for your needs is important and properly installing it will ensure the maximum protection for your RV. (“RV Insulation 101”)

Using a RV Skirt

Walls and Ceiling Insulation: Enhancing Comfort and Heat Retention

Enhancing Wall Insulation and Protecting RV Plumbing with Skirting 

RVs come from the factory with varying levels of insulation. One option to increase the R-value of your RV’s wall insulation is to use spray foam insulation to supplement your RV’s existing insulation. Skirting your RV using a product like EZ Snap RV Skirting Kits provides a simple, easy-to-install solution that adds insulation to parts of your RV’s walls while also offering extra insulation to the underbelly and safeguarding vital plumbing lines. EZ Snap’s diamond-weave material is designed for extreme weather down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit and is lightweight, easy to cut to size, and resistant to mold and mildew—crucial factors considering it will be wrapped around your RV for several months each year. 

Roof Insulation: Minimizing Heat Loss and Ensuring Warmth 

Ceiling insulation might not be the first area of insulation that you consider when thinking about protecting your RV from cold temperatures, but since warm air rises, it’s where heat can easily be lost if not well-insulated. While keeping your roof cleared of snow and ice as much as possible is important, so is insulating your roof. One aspect to consider is any skylights or vents. These can be fitted with foam insulation pillows to reduce heat loss through the thin plastic windows which do not come insulated from the factory.

Regulating Your RV from Cold temperatures

Optimizing Heating and Ventilation for Winter RV Comfort

Efficient Heating Systems 

Keeping your RV’s propane or electric furnace in top condition is the first step to ensuring an efficient heating system. Making sure that all of your ductwork is clean, and vents clear to allow for maximum airflow to all areas of your RV will also help to keep your RV cozy inside. Some RVs come equipped with an electric fireplace heater or these can be added aftermarket to up the heat output in your RV. If your RV is larger or if you find that you need additional help heating your RV, ceramic space heaters used for short periods of time during the day can help raise the inside air temperature of your RV, keeping you warm and cozy inside. Never leave these unattended or running overnight. 

Ventilation and Humidity Control 

Proper ventilation is always important, but especially in the winter when you are sealing around your RV to insulate and keep the heat in and the cold out. Making sure that your RV’s propane is properly venting to the outside and not back into the RV is a critical safety consideration. Humidity is also a common battle during the winter months as condensation tends to settle on the walls, windows, and ceiling of the RV if left unchecked. Running a dehumidifier inside the RV throughout the winter will help to pull the humidity out of the air, preventing mold and mildew. These can quickly destroy your investment in your RV, so don’t skip on managing humidity, particularly if you are in a humid climate. 

Evaluating your RV’s insulation needs and ensuring its proper insulation using the right products and equipment will ensure a cozy winter RV experience for you. Protecting your equipment by insulating your RV efficiently and properly will also extend the life of your RV, ensuring your enjoyment of your RV for years to come. 

 

Sources
 

1. EZ Snap. EZSnapDirect.com. Accessed 4 May 2023. 

2. “How To Weatherstrip A Door the Right Way And Seal Gaps.” Constellation,
https://blog.constellation.com/2022/11/17/how-to-weatherstrip-a-door-correctly. 17 November 2022. 

3. “RV Insulation 101: A Complete Guide to Temperature Control.” Lock-It, https://www.latchit.org/post/rv-insulation-guide. 8 December 2021.

Uncover a Winter Wonderland: 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure

Uncover a Winter Wonderland: 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure

Image Credit: Ark PP / flickr

As the winter season approaches, the idea of embarking on a road trip adventure with an RV may seem counterintuitive to many. However, the winter season can bring about a unique and exciting opportunity to explore some of America’s most beautiful national parks and scenic routes. In this article, we will uncover the top 10 must-see RV destinations for a wintry road trip adventure, including tips for RVing in the winter, recommended RV campsites and services, and descriptions of the parks’ winter scenery and activities.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure- Yellowstone
Image Credit:
Yellowstone National Park / flickr

Destination 1: Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, is a winter wonderland that transforms into a snowy paradise in the colder months. Visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and even ice fishing. RVers can take advantage of the park’s numerous campgrounds, with options ranging from rustic to modern. Some of the recommended RV campsites include Madison, Canyon, and Grant Village.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure- Glacier National Park
Image Credit:
National Park Service

Destination 2: Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, located in Montana, is another popular winter destination for RVers. The park boasts picturesque views of snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and icy waterfalls. Visitors can participate in winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. RVers can stay at Apgar, Fish Creek, or St. Mary campgrounds.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure- Rocky Mountain
Image Credit:
National Park Service

Destination 3: Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park, located in Colorado, offers visitors a winter wonderland with numerous winter sports and activities, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. RVers can stay at campgrounds such as Moraine Park, Glacier Basin, and Aspenglen.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure-Acadia National Park
Image Credit:
National Park Service

Destination 4: Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park, located in Maine, offers a unique and tranquil winter experience with scenic views of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. Visitors can engage in winter sports such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. The park’s Blackwoods Campground offers RVers amenities such as electrical hookups and heated restrooms.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure-Joshua Tree National Park
Image Credit: National Park Service /
Raw Pixel

Destination 5: Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park, located in California, offers RVers a unique desert winter experience. Visitors can enjoy mild temperatures, clear skies, and breathtaking views of the park’s unique rock formations. Winter activities in the park include hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing. RVers can stay at Black Rock, Indian Cove, or Cottonwood campgrounds.

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure-Bryce Canyon National Park
Image Credit:
Rob Lee /flickr

Destination 6: Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in Utah, offers a unique and stunning winter experience with its red rock formations contrasted against white snow. Visitors can participate in winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The park’s North and Sunset campgrounds offer RVers access to electrical hookups and heated restrooms.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure-Big Bend National Park
Image Credit:
Jonathan Cutrer / flickr

Destination 7: Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park, located in Texas, offers RVers a unique and quiet winter experience with its vast desert landscape and clear skies. Winter activities in the park include hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The park’s Rio Grande Village campground offers RVers access to electrical hookups and heated restrooms.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure-Great Sand Dunes National Park
Image Credit:
NPS Natural Resources / flickr

Destination 8: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park, located in Colorado, offers a unique winter experience with its snow-covered sand dunes and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Winter activities in the park include sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The park’s Pinon Flats campground offers RVers access to electrical hookups and heated restrooms.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure-Mount Rainier National Park
Image Credit:
Mount Rainier National Park / flickr

Destination 9: Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park, located in Washington, offers a unique and stunning winter experience with its snow-covered mountain and serene winter landscapes. Winter activities in the park include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. RVers can stay at campgrounds such as Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River.

 

Uncover a Winter Wonderland 10 Must-See RV Destinations for a Wintry Road Trip Adventure-Denali National Park
Image Credit:
Denali National Park and Preserve / flickr

Destination 10: Denali National Park

Denali National Park, located in Alaska, offers a unique and exhilarating winter experience with its rugged terrain and abundant wildlife. Visitors can engage in winter activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. RVers can stay at Riley Creek, Savage River, or Teklanika River campgrounds.

 

Takeaway

Embarking on a wintry road trip adventure with an RV can be a unique and unforgettable experience, and America’s national parks offer some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring winter scenery in the world. From Yellowstone National Park to Denali National Park, each of these 10 destinations provides visitors with a unique and stunning winter experience. To plan a successful winter RV trip, it’s important to be well-prepared and equipped with the necessary gear and supplies. Additionally, it’s important to check road and weather conditions before embarking on the trip.

 

FAQs

Is it safe to RV in the winter?
Yes, RVing in the winter can be safe as long as you are well-prepared and equipped with the necessary gear and supplies. It’s important to check road and weather conditions before embarking on the trip and to stay informed about any potential hazards.

What are some winter activities to do in national parks?
Winter activities in national parks can include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and more. Check with each individual park for specific winter activities and recommendations.

Are there any specific RV campsites recommended for winter RVing?
Yes, many national parks offer specific RV campsites that are open year-round and equipped with amenities such as electrical hookups and heated restrooms. Some recommended campsites for winter RVing include Madison Campground in Yellowstone National Park and Apgar Campground in Glacier National Park.

What kind of gear and supplies do I need for a winter RV trip?
Some essential gear and supplies for a winter RV trip include warm clothing, snow boots, tire chains, a shovel, and extra food and water. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your RV is equipped with a functioning heating system and adequate insulation.

How can I prepare my RV for winter RVing?
To prepare your RV for winter RVing, it’s important to ensure that all of its systems and components are functioning properly. This may include checking the heating system, water and plumbing systems, and tires. Additionally, it’s important to insulate the RV and seal any potential air leaks to ensure maximum warmth and comfort.

CyCrown E-bike Florida Rails to Trail Ride

CyCrown E-bike Florida Rails to Trail Ride


CyCrown E-bike Florida Rails to Trail Ride

by Jerry Neal | Jun 17, 2023

In recent years, the demand for electric bikes has soared, driven by a growing interest especially within the RV community. We had the recent opportunity to evaluate the CycFree CyCrown e-bike on the East Central Regional Rail Trail starting at New Smyrna, FL. We found the CyCrown e-bike to be well made, with a sleek design and offered exceptional performance for the 30 miles traveled.

CycFree CyCrown E-Bike

CycFree CyCrown E-Bike Electric Motor

Cycrown E-bikeThe CyCrown CycFree E-bike features a 500W electric motor that provides seamless power assistance while pedaling. The motor offers multiple levels of assistance, allowing riders to customize their riding experience according to their preferences and the terrain they are traversing. We found the e-bike was able to tackle steep hills, accelerating quickly in traffic, all while delivering a smooth and efficient ride.

CycFree CyCrown E-Bike Battery Life

One of the key advantages of the CyCrown CycFree Electric Bike is its impressive battery life. Equipped with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery, we were able travel significant distances on a single charge. We felt confident that we could take long trips without worrying about running out of power.

CycFree CyCrown E-Bike Construction

For RV travel we found the CyCrown CycFree E-bike’s lightweight and durable construction made it easy to maneuver and transport with the folding frame and handle bars. We were able easily store the e-bike in our 5th wheel main storage compartment.

CycFree CyCrown E-Bike Intelligent LCD Display

One of our favorite CyCrown CycFree E-bike features was the intelligent LCD display that provided essential information during our trip. The display showed data such as speed, distance traveled, battery level, and the selected power assistance mode. This feature allowed us to stay informed and make adjustments to optimize our riding experience.

CycFree Cycrown E-bike Features

The CycFree e-bike is equipped with a 48V 20AH removable battery. The 54.6V 3A fast charger makes it possible to fully charge the electric bike in 5-6 hours, and the maximum range with that charge is up to 75 miles.

  • Equipped with a 500W 48V motor, strong and consistent power, with 5 power settings.
  • Supports a pedal assist mode assist as you pedal the bicycle.
  • Includes a fully electric mode with a twist the throttle to power up the bicycle.
  • Operates as a standard pedal bicycle as found in a non-electric bicycle.
  • Distances on a fully charged battery vary depending on the mode. Pure Electric: 42-53 miles, Pedal Assist: 53-75 miles, and Normal Bike: unlimited. The max speed is 20 MPH.
  • Equipped with 20″ x 4” puncture-resistant tires, Shimano 7-speed, and dual shock absorbers.

Our thanks to CyCrown providing us with the CycFree E-bike for this review. We found the e-bike with it’s cutting-edge features and reliable performance to be a great addition for our RV outdoor adventures.

East Central Regional Rail Trail New Smyrna, FL

The East Central Regional Rail Trail is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of New Smyrna Beach, FL. Spanning over 50 miles, this picturesque trail follows the route of a former railway line, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you’re a nature lover, seeking a bike trail, or simply looking for an adventure, this rail trail offers a great experience for the outdoor enthusiast.

Trail head

Our e-bike journey began at the New Smyrna, FL trail head. As we started our ride on the trail, we were immediately greeted by a sense of tranquility and anticipation. The trail head serves as the gateway to an unforgettable adventure along the East Central Regional Rail Trail.

Natural Beauty

As we ventured further along the trail, we were captivated by the sheer beauty of the surroundings. The trail started with lush green forests, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. One of the highlights of the East Central Regional Rail Trail is the opportunity to encounter diverse wildlife. We saw a bird species and abundance of snapping turtles,

Picnic Spots

The East Central Regional Rail Trail offered numerous scenic picnic spots where we were able to rest, refuel, and enjoy a meal in nature’s beauty. What a treat to be surrounded by breathtaking views and the soothing sounds of the wilderness.

A Biking Paradise

The East Central Regional Rail Trail had a smooth paved, well-maintained surface, perfect for e-bikes and cyclists of all levels.

The East Central Regional Rail Trail starting in New Smyrna Beach, FL, is a true gem that seamlessly blends natural beauty and historical significance. From its breathtaking landscapes to its rich wildlife and intriguing history, this trail has something for everyone. Whether you’re touring on an e-bike, an avid cyclist, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, the East Central Regional Rail Trail promises an unforgettable adventure.

CyCrown E-bike

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: CyCrown E-bike Florida Rails to Trail Ride

10 Items for Your RV Emergency Kit

10 Items for Your RV Emergency Kit


10 Items for Your RV Emergency Kit

by Jerry Neal | Jun 10, 2023

Joan and I have been traveling in an RV almost 10 years with tens of thousands of miles adding to our adventure. Starting day one of our travels we developed an emergency kit for those unforeseen events that may occur that would aid us in staying safe as well as allow us to make repairs within our skills so we could continue our travels. In the 10 items you need for your emergency kit we discuss below, we don’t address those items that would be equipped from the RV manufacturer such as fire extinguishers or that ever important Mom’s first aid kit. This RV Emergency Kit contains a number of tools and safety equipment that we have acquired over time and use either for our needs or coming to the aid of a fellow RV traveler.

Before I start the list, allow me to address RV preparation before you start traveling. If something is suspect that may give you trouble with the tow vehicle or RV, have it checked out weeks before you leave on the trip. You’ve planned for weeks or months for this trip so don’t let known problems attention fail on the road or at the campground that should be resolved and run the potential of ruining your RV adventure.

1. Eternabond Tape

Eternabond Tape is perfect for the RV Emergency Kit if roof damage every occurs. While rare, but it happens, large tree limbs can become dislodged and fall into the RV causing wholes or tears in the roof fabric. Eternabond Tape provides a quick and permanent solution to patch a roof quickly.

Eternabond Tape is a Micro Sealant tape that will stop virtually any leak and can water proof any surface in minutes. We carry a 4 inch by 20 foot roll and on two occasions had to make emergency repairs to roof damage. Eternabond Tape can be used to seal any rip, tear, or open seam in any surface and can be use on all roof types including EPDM, TPO, hypalon, most PVC, fiber glass and all metals.

2. Lap Sealant

As with the previously mention Eternabond Tape, a good quality lap sealant is important as part of your RV emergency kit. Do not use a silicone or calk designed for home use on your RV. Lap sealants are designed for the various types of RV roofing materials and remain pliable to withstand movement subjected to RV travel. A lap sealant is used to create a water tight seal along the roofs edges, vents, RV trim and screw heads. It cures fast and is highly weather resistant that will not shrink, remaining flexible over time.

For RVs with EPDM and TPO roof we’ve found Dicor 501LSW-1 Epdm Self-Leveling Lap Sealant works well. This also works well on fiber glass and aluminum. For those who have PVC roofs, use a XTRM-PLY PVC lap sealant.

3. Spare RV Tire

This part of the RV Emergency Kit that always generates a number of opinions around the campfire. Some take the path that all is needed is a flat tire puncture kit where a glue infused string is inserted into a hole in the tire created by a nail. Here’s the problem. Most RV tires require 65lbs to 110lbs of pressure. Many portable 12V air compressor will take hours to fill a flat tire to the lower pressures and most don’t have the capacity for time needing the higher pressures.

In our experience, we’ve had two tires that completely exploded and a third that had a tear in the treads where a puncture kit wouldn’t work. Our only alternative as a spare tire to continue our trip.

4. Bottle Jack and a ½ Inch Breaker Bar

Continuing the discussion of replacing a flat or damaged tire, those who have the basic skill and physical ability to replace a car tire can also replace a tire on most RVs. That is with the exception of a large Class A motor home. In the instance of a Class A, these are very large, very heavy tires, have large lugs and require specialty equipment to replace.

We have a 4 ton bottle jack. These are relatively inexpensive and are capable of lifting the axle of most 1, 2 and 3 axle RVs for tire replacement. We also have a couple 12 inch 2x10s in the event we are one soft or uneven soil and need a firm base for the jack.

We also carry a ½ inch drive breaker bar that is 36 inches long with a socket to match the lugs on our 5th wheel. There are times that it’s almost impossible to remove RV lugs with a 4-way lug wrench or worse with a tire iron.

Having the ability to replace a RV tire when traveling can save many hours sitting on the side of the road waiting on a service to render aid along with the substantial savings of doing it yourself.

5. Bottle water and Golf Umbrella

This part of the RV Emergency Kit may sound odd, but if an event ever occurs where your RV has broken down and it will be hours until help can arrive, a large golf umbrella and bottle water will be your saving grace. We’ve had two instances where we had to wait over 3 hours in the hot sun, on the side of the road waiting on a service call. I’ve never thought it was safe to sit in a vehicle on the side of a road for any period of time (we’ve all seen those catastrophic videos on YouTube). Having portable shade and hydration is very important if you have to face this experience in your RV travels.

6. Road Safety Triangle Kit

This is the last item I’ll discuss as part of the RV Emergency Kit for those events where your RV is disable along the side of the road. We all know the importance of using the emergency flashers, but that isn’t enough. We all see the long haul trucker using road safety triangles along the Interstate. Using several road safety reflective triangles spaced 10 to 15 feet apart from the back of the RV gives oncoming traffic better visibility with the hopes of additional space. This becomes more critical if a breakdown occurs and you are traveling at night.

7. Quality Bright Flashlight

A quality flash light need not cost a hundred dollars nor should it be one of those 99 cent specials from the grocery counter. My preference is an aluminum, weather proof flashlight that has at least 600 lumens of output and operates on standard batteries versus those that are rechargeable. We keep a couple in the ton truck in the door side pockets and a couple more inside the 5th wheel. These lights are easy to find at most big box stores for less than $30 and we carry a few extra batteries just in case. Perfect for those times if you arrive in a dark campground and need a little extra visibility find that camping spot.

8. Basic Tool Kit

A tool kit is important to fix basic problems that may arise. I’m not going to be performing major truck repairs, but I had to replace the two 12V batteries. We keep a small 3/8 inch socket set in metric and SAE for such instances.

We also have a digital volt meter to troubleshoot small electrical problems like a blown fuse or if we experience power problems at the 50 amp pedestal. And speaking of fuses, they always seem to pop when needed most. We have one of every type for the 5th wheel and our truck.

A small, inexpensive batter powered drill is handy for basic repairs along with our 11-in-1 screw driver, zip ties, and a few other simple tools we’ve acquired along the way.

Here’s a tip. Don’t go out and purchase every tool you’ll think you may need. Carry a few basics and as repairs are needed for something new, purchase and you have on hand if the need ever occurs again.

9. Weather Radio

I can’t stress enough the importance of a weather radio as part of your RV Emergency Kit. We have a Midland – WR120B – NOAA Emergency Weather Alert Radio and it has been our best friend during sever weather. The radio is a Public-alert certified monitor that receives 7 NOAA channels with flood, tornado, thunderstorm, and other warnings. It is easy to configure as you travel state to state, county to county, with alerts only when specific counties are threatened. In addition to standard AC power, it uses three AA alkaline batteries for emergency power back-up in the event of power outage.

10. Portable Power Station & Solar Panel

A lithium portable power station may seem like one of those items that will be rarely used or is too expensive. The good news is these units come in a wide variety of sizes that range from something slightly larger than a kids lunch box to more powerful units in the range of a small suitcase, with varying power ratings, outputs for devices, and cost. It all depends on how long you may want to power the devices needed and the wattage of the devices to be powered. One note, while these will handle most power needs such as TVs, appliances, residential refrigerators, phones, tablets, computers, and CPAP machines, they are not practical to power an air conditioner.

These portable powered generators can be charged with 120V AC, a 12V car cigarette plug, or solar panels. Depending on the unit, each can support 100 watts from one or more portable solar panels making this a great option for emergency power over extend periods of time.

I have included in the Helpful Links below various types and sizes of portable power stations we have reviewed showing practical uses of each and how they apply to RV travel.

While this list may not include everything that you may need in your RV Emergency Kit, this is a good start to address many of the issues that may occur. My hope is you’ll never need any of these, but if you do, you’ll be glad you were prepared.

10 items for your RV emergency kit video

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: 10 Items for Your RV Emergency Kit

G-POWER U1000 and S500 Portable Power Stations

G-POWER U1000 and S500 Portable Power Stations


G-POWER U1000 and S500 Portable Power Stations

by Jerry Neal | Jun 3, 2023

We have received a number of comments from our viewers asking about affordable portable power stations to use for overnight stops or as supplemental power. We have reviewed a number of portable power stations, but these have been larger more costly units with 2,000 watts of AC power with surge capabilities of 4,000 watts. These large capacity power stations are expensive, but there are other power stations that are small, have less capacity, yet meet the basic need at a much more affordable cost. We test two units that fit the bill – the G-POWER U1000 and S500 Portable Power Stations.

G-POWER S500 Portable Power Station

The G-POWER portable power station has a large capacity of 556.8wh and 500W AC output (peak 1000W), which can power most devices such as a car fridge, travel coffee maker, laptop, phone, and more. There are 4 ways to recharge the G-POWER S500 power station, including an AC wall outlet (with the supplied power cord), solar panel, DC port, and USB-C PD port. It can be recharged from 0% to 85% within 1.5 hours through an AC wall outlet.

The G-POWER portable power station is equipped with the advanced LiFePO4 battery. This power station also provides an intelligent battery management system, which effectively prevents over-voltage, under-voltage, over-current, short-circuit, over-temperature, and other problems.

The G-POWER S500 power stations has 1 1DC input, 1 Type-C PD port, 1 Type-C port (fast charge), 3 USB-A ports, 12V DC cigarette lighter port, 1 AC output, and 120V AC input. The DC multi-voltage outputs are compatible with a variety of devices that can be powered simultaneously. There are independent switches of the main on/off and control the AC ports, DC ports, and light.

G-POWER U1000 Portable Power Station

The G-POWER U1000 portable power station has a 974.4Wh ultra capacity with a 1200W rated output. There are 4 ways to recharge the emergency power battery backup, including a wall AC outlet, DC & Anderson solar charge, DC port, and USB-C PD port. It can be recharged from 0% to 85% within 5 hours using the supplied power brick.

The G-POWER portable power station is equipped with the advanced LiFePO4 battery. This power station also provides an intelligent battery management system, which effectively prevents over-voltage, under-voltage, over-current, short-circuit, over-temperature, and other problems.

The power stations has 1 DC and Anderson solar charge, 1 Type-C PD port, 1 Type-C port (fast charge), 3 USB-A ports, 2 AC outlets, and 1 12V DC cigarette lighter port and can power various devices simultaneously.

The devices performed very well. See the video below for additional information about these units.

Our thanks to G-POWER for providing the U1000 and S500 for our evaluation. See the links below if you are interested on purchasing one of these units.

G-POWER Station

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: G-POWER U1000 and S500 Portable Power Stations

Adding A Dimmer Switch to RV LED Lights

Adding A Dimmer Switch to RV LED Lights


Adding A Dimmer Switch to RV LED Lights

by Jerry Neal | May 27, 2023

Lighting in your RV does not have to be overly bright and harsh. In our Montana 5th wheel we have an area in the back living room that has four LED puck lights that are never used at night because they are too bright. That’s why we thought adding a dimmer switch to RV LED lights would be a perfect modification. Now we can enjoy dimming the lights for the evening and still have the ability to brighten up the space when we’re packing or cleaning.

Installing the Dimmer Switch

We had a dimmer switch next to the theater seating and wanted to use a similar switch in the back living area where the three cushion couch is located. We didn’t need to run any wiring, just replace the on-off switch currently installed with a dimmer switch.

We found a 12 Volt DC dimmer switch on Amazon that was similar to the style next to our theater seating. The switch will dim up to 60 watts (4.2 amps) of incandescent, halogen, or LED lighting. Aside for the benefit of adjusting light intensity, the dimming also reduces heat and power drain on batteries especially for RVs using incandescent or halogen bulbs.

Installation was simple. Remove the old switch, carefully enlarge the hole in the wall to fit the dimmer switch, disconnect the existing switch, connect the three wires – 12V DC power, ground, and the control to the dimmer, and mount with screws and install the plate cover.

LED Flicker

There can be issues where some lights may flicker when dimmed. This is rarely the case with incandescent or halogen bulbs, but can occur with some LED lights that do not support lower voltages for the dimming function.

Our Montana 5th wheel is equipped with puck style LED lighting. These lights work well with dimmers. If you plan to upgrade your RV’s incandescent or halogen bulbs with LEDs, make sure you find those that specifically state they will support dimmer voltages.

One other note. In the video below, the dimming of our LED lights shows a flicker. The flicker is a camera anomaly and not seen by the human eye. Unfortunately we did not have a camera setting that would refresh to eliminate the flicker in the recording and I can confirm that no flicker is experienced from the human eye.

Dimmer Switch Installation Results

Installation took less than 30 minutes and has now made the space more enjoyable for evening TV viewing as well as a more comfortable space when we have visitors sitting on the couch.

We now have a full range of operation for the four LED lights from a simple off and on, to dim to bright.

adding a dimmer switch to RV

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Adding A Dimmer Switch to RV LED Lights

Jerry & Julie E-bike Tour Amerson River Park

Jerry & Julie E-bike Tour Amerson River Park


Jerry & Julie E-bike Tour Amerson River Park

by Jerry Neal | May 20, 2023

On this Spring day, I had the fortunate experience to enjoy a fun day with our daughter Julie as we traveled along the beautiful trails on an e-bike tour of Amerson River Park.

Amerson River Park, located in Macon, Georgia, is a picturesque destination that offers an abundance of outdoor activities. Among its many attractions, the park boasts a network of bike trails that cater to riders of all skill levels. In the video below Julie and l explored the many bike trails at Amerson River Park, highlighting their scenic beauty, family-friendly environment, and more.

Introduction: Amerson River Park

Nestled along the banks of the Ocmulgee River, Amerson River Park is a renowned outdoor haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its sprawling green spaces, dense forests, and tranquil river views, the park offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Overview of Amerson River Park Bike Trails

Amerson River Park features a diverse range of bike trails suitable for riders of varying abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, there’s a trail for everyone. The park offers a mostly paved paths, each with its own unique characteristics.

The trails at Amerson River Park span a total distance of 7 miles, with options for shorter, leisurely rides with sections that can be used as short loops. Most of the trails are paved and wide providing easy travel. Trail difficulty levels range from easy to moderate, ensuring that both novices and experienced riders can find a trail that suits their preferences.

Scenic Beauty and Natural Surroundings

One of the most captivating aspects of biking at Amerson River Park is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. As you pedal through the trails, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of towering trees, vibrant wildflowers, and the tranquil flow of the Ocmulgee River. The park’s serene atmosphere and well-maintained trails create a truly immersive experience in nature.

Amerson River Park’s Family-Friendly Environment

Amerson River Park is a popular destination for families seeking outdoor adventures. In addition to the bike trails, the park offers a wide array of amenities and activities that cater to children and adults alike. From playgrounds and picnic areas to fishing spots, nature walks, and an outdoor exercise area, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Safety Measures and Trail Maintenance
We found the to be well-maintained to ensure a smooth and secure riding experience. Signage is strategically placed throughout the park to guide cyclists and highlight any potential hazards.

Accessible and Inclusive Trails

Amerson River Park is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all visitors. The bike trails are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the park’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Accessible amenities such as parking, restrooms, and picnic areas are conveniently located, enhancing the overall experience for people of all abilities.

Local Attractions and Amenities

While exploring the bike trails at Amerson River Park, consider extending your visit to explore the surrounding attractions. Macon, Georgia, is home to numerous cultural and historical sites, including the Tubman Museum, Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, the Hay House, The Big House Allman Brothers Band Museum, Capricorn Studios Musim, and the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. After a day of biking, you can savor a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants, visit one of the many downtown brew pubs or indulge in some retail therapy at the nearby shopping centers. We have a number of videos for this area. CLICK HERE to see our Playlist.

A Great Day at Amerson River Park

Amerson River Park in Macon, GA, offers an family friendly and fun biking experience amidst stunning natural surroundings. The park’s diverse range of bike trails caters to riders of all abilities, providing a chance to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the many recreational benefits of cycling and e-bike travel. When you visit the Middle Georgia area, pack your e-bike, and journey through the scenic bike trails of Amerson River Park.

e-bike tour of Amerson River park

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Jerry & Julie E-bike Tour Amerson River Park

8 Big RV Mistakes We’ve Made

8 Big RV Mistakes We’ve Made


8 Big RV Mistakes We’ve Made

by Jerry Neal | May 13, 2023

This is one of those blogs where I could attempt to share the 8 Big RV Mistakes We’ve Made in words, but I think this time it’s best that I let the video below share these events.

Regardless of those who are seasoned RV travels or if this is the first year with the new camper, we all have made mistakes. For us, some of these had minor consequences, others had it’s share of difficulty, cost, and in one case pretty stinky results.

So it just goes to show that even for for Joan and I as experienced, long term travelers, we’ve had a few dillies and thought sharing these 8 Big RV Mistakes We’ve Made would help you avoid what we experienced. And now that each of these have passed, you can laugh along with us that we survived each and we can continue to share that I Love RV Life.

8 big rv mistakes

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: 8 Big RV Mistakes We’ve Made

We’re Giving a 12V RV Fridge Away

We’re Giving a 12V RV Fridge Away


We’re Giving a 12V RV Fridge Away

by Jerry Neal | May 10, 2023

WE’RE GIVING A 12V RV FRIDGE AWAY!

Nothing to buy, nothing to sign up for, just giving away a very nice Bodega 1.6cu ft 12V DC RV refrigerator. There is one stipulation – you have to pick it up. If you’re traveling down I-75 through Middle Georgia, we’ll meet the winner with the fridge.

HOW TO WIN

Just contact us at https://www.ilovervlife.com/contact-us/. Give your name, number, email and in the “share with us” section, let us know you want the fridge. I’ll contact the winner, we’ll get our calendars together and set up a location and time to hand off. Don’t worry about you RV size. There’s plenty of locations regardless if you’re traveling in something small or in a giant big rig, we have options where we can meet up that won’t be an issue. Good luck!

We're Giving a 12V RV Fridge Away

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: We’re Giving a 12V RV Fridge Away

The End To Facebook For Us

The End To Facebook For Us


The End To Facebook For Us

by Jerry Neal | May 10, 2023

This has been something we’ve considered for some time – the end to Facebook for us. We have reached the point where we’ve very concerned about the lack of security that exists in the Facebook social media platform and how it can impact Joan and I, our family, and equally important, all of our iLoveRVlife followers.

To our knowledge, Joan nor I have been hacked (YET!) or had our contact used in a negative way that we can identify. But, we receive notifications from our followers where their account has been hacked as well as receiving virus and malware links via Facebook. Daily we get requests from very undesirable parties to be a “friend”. It’s obvious these requesting parties have no intent to be a part of our RV community and want nothing more than to access our friends list to use in ways that we fear could cause a negative impact. More is shared from the video below.

So we have deleted all of our post, pictures and responses from the Jerry Lovesrvlife Facebook page. Joan has done the same for her personal account. We have deleted the accounts, but it takes Facebook 30 days to delete. Another reason we believe this platform does all it can to manage the user versus giving the user all the tools needed to properly and safely manage the platform.

DO NOT ACCEPT ANY FRIEND REQUESTS FROM “JERRY LOVESRVLIFE” GOING FORWARD. WHOEVER IS GENERATING THE REQUEST IS A SCAM! WE HAVE LEFT FACEBOOK AND WILL NOT REACTIVE ANY ACCOUNT IN THE FUTURE.

iLoveRVlife is not going away, We will continue to post our RV travels, tips, and product reviews on YouTube. The YouTube platform is much different and I have a wider range of tools to manage content and users to limit bad actors and protect our content. Plus YouTube is more for entertainment and less on the social interaction limiting access to our viewer’s accounts. We will also continue to maintain this website and our iLoveRVlife newsletter.

To all of our Facebook friends and family (an there are thousands), we will miss the interaction and bond we’ve created. We will continue to support an active comment community on YouTube and our contact page on this website is always open for help or just a hello.

Safe travels my friends….Jerry

The End To Facebook For Us

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: The End To Facebook For Us

Pecron E600LFP Portable Power Station

Pecron E600LFP Portable Power Station


Pecron E600LFP Portable Power Station

by Jerry Neal | May 6, 2023

When it comes to outdoor adventures, whether it be RV travel, hiking, or even tailgating, one of the essential items to pack is a reliable power source. With the advancement of technology and our dependence on electronic devices, the need for a portable power station has become more important than ever. We have had numerous comments asking us to find a lower cost portable power station that could be used for overnight use to power devices such as a CPAP machine, and charge phones and tablets. Others have asked for a similar unit to power devices around the campground for long weekends or for supplemental power for long term RV travel such as lights, a TV or longer periods for a portable refrigerator. So we put the Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station to the test.

What is the Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station?

The Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station is a high-capacity power station that is designed to provide reliable and clean power for a wide range of electronic devices. It is rated at 614Wh capacity and 1200W rated power and can retain 80% of its original capacity at 3500 complete charge cycles. The Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station also features a pure sine wave inverter that can deliver up to 1200W of continuous power. Weighing only 20 lbs, the Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a vehicle or around the campground.

Key Features of the Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station

  • 1200W 614Wh
  • 2.2 Hours Super Fast Charging
  • 400W Max Solar Charging
  • 1200W Rated Pure Sine Wave Inverter
  • 11 Versatile Output
  • LiFePO4 Battery with 3,500+ Life Cycles to 80%

Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station Outputs

  • 3 – 120V AC outlets
  • 2 – USB-C Port(18W/100W)
  • 2 – USB-A
  • 1 – 12V Cigarette port
  • 15W Wireless Charging Pad

Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station Charging Options

  • AC Input 120V/60Hz Pure Sine Wave
  • Car Input DC 12~18V–100W(Max)

Solar Charging

  • Charge Controller: Built-in MPPT Controller
  • 400W Solar input (0-100% in 1.5-2.5H)
  • 200W Solar input (0-100% in 3-4H)
  • Supports MC4 type solar panels:
    • Voc 12V~18V / 100W Max /7A Max
    • 2 x Voc 32V~95V / 400W Max / 15A Max
    • Max 400W Charging, Lightning Fast
    • DC5521: Voc 12V~18V / 100W Max /7A Max
    • GX16MF: Voc 32V~95V / 400W Max / 15A Max
    • E600LFP: DC5521 and GX16MF ports cannot be input simultaneously.

Testing the Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station

To answer the questions from our the comments we’ve received from our YouTube viewers, we wanted to see how the Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station would perform powering a CPAP machine overnight and if it could also charge portable devices at the same time. We also created a second test to see how long the Pecron E600flp would power a portable refrigerator. Each test was performed with the Pecron charged to 100%.

The results were much better than expected. We didn’t have a CPAP machine and used an incandescent 60 Watt light bulb to simulate the test. We also plugged in a completely discharged iPad, a Kindle at 35% and laid a discharged Samsung cell phone on the wireless charging pad. After 9.5 hours of continuous use, the Pecron E600lfp had a remaining capacity of 11%.

For the second test we used a 12V DC Setpower 47 quart dual zone portable refrigerator with both zones set for 36 degrees. We pre-cooled the refrigerator before the test and set the unit inside the 5th wheel to test. We closed the 5th wheel without any air conditioning to simulate the inside of a car or truck with temperatures hoovering around 84 degrees throughout the test. We stopped the test after 24 hours with 56% of the Pecron E600lfp power remaining.

One other note about the Pecron E600lfp. Units we have tested in the past failed the refrigerator test if the power station does have a power draw over a set period of time. That was not the case with the Pecron. As you’ll see in the video below, when the portable refrigerator compressor wasn’t running it would create a 2 Watt draw from the Pecron E600lfp every minute to keep the power station from turning off.

Our Impression of the Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station

We found the Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station to be a reliable and versatile power solution that is perfect for supplemental needs that fit the capacity limits of the unit. With its long-lasting lithium-iron-phosphate battery, pure sine wave inverter, and multiple charging options, we found the unit provided a stable and clean power source for the electronic devices tested. We especially liked the lightweight and portable design, LCD display screen, and the range inputs and outputs making it a versatile and practical power solution for a wide range of RV travel needs.

See the video below for the testing results. Our thanks for Pecron providing the E600lfp Portable Power Station for our review. We have provided helpful links below if you are interested in purchasing a Pecron E600lfp Portable Power Station and other items mentioned in the video.

Pecron E600lfp power station

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Pecron E600LFP Portable Power Station

iLoveRVlife Live! – 1 Year Montana Update, Travel Costs, and Questions & Answers

iLoveRVlife Live! – 1 Year Montana Update, Travel Costs, and Questions & Answers


iLoveRVlife Live! – 1 Year Montana Update, Travel Costs, and Questions & Answers

by Jerry Neal | May 4, 2023

It’s been almost a year since our last iLoveRVlife Live! In the broadcast we cover two topics – a 1 year Montana update and the growing challenges of RV travel costs. We also opened the chat line and covered a number of questions from the viewers.

Our Montana 5th Wheel After 1 Year

It’s been a year since we bought our new Keystone Montana 5th wheel. We had a few small issues early in our travel. None affected our travel, but we had one issues with the electrical power for the awnings. Was easily remedied with a warranty repair. The other issues were very basics most being a loose piece of molding that was repaired with a small finishing nail.

We’ve made a few modifications, but worked very hard to make each fit the factory finish and not hack up the beautiful interior of this 5th wheel.

The added weight moving from a 14,000lb 5th wheel to a 20,000lb 5th wheel has been noticeable. Towing with the Ford F-350 diesel dully has been an non issue. The biggest issue is the push experienced by the 5th wheel as we navigate down long mountain roads. We haven’t had any problems, but have to manage downhill speed, breaking and down shifting a little different.

Increasing RV Travel Costs

Next we discussed the growing challenges of RV travel costs. We are seeing as well as experiencing a sharp increase in the cost of campgrounds. This includes both private, corporate, and state campgrounds. Plus finding a campground that meets our timeframes are requiring us to reserve sites anywhere from 6 to 12 months in advance.

We traveled over 8 months in 2022 to push the performance of the Montana. It performed very well. Moving from a 40 ft to a 42 ft 5th wheel hasn’t been an issue in towing, but we have run into a few campgrounds that would not accept an RV over 40 ft in length. Fortunately, we were always able to find a campground in the area we wanted to visit that met our needs.

And with that long 8 months of travel and many thousands of miles came diesel fuel costs. Wow, did we burn through the travel budget. Adding the 55 gallon auxiliary tank has been both a convenience and a cost savings. No longer do we have to stop during the trip and find fuel. And we’re now able to find lessor cost fuel near the campgrounds and not purchase the expensive truck stop fuel along the Interstates. Savings sometimes have been over a dollar a gallon, and the costs savings have been significant when we burned through a couple thousand gallons of diesel over a years time.

Watch the video for much more. And thanks so much following Joan and I as we share our RV travels, tips, mods, and product reviews.

iLoveRVlife Live

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: iLoveRVlife Live! – 1 Year Montana Update, Travel Costs, and Questions & Answers

Troxus E-Bike Tour of Lake Tobesofkee Campground

Troxus E-Bike Tour of Lake Tobesofkee Campground


Troxus E-Bike Tour of Lake Tobesofkee Campground

by Jerry Neal | Apr 22, 2023

Electric bikes are quickly becoming one of the most popular modes of transportation for RV travels and outdoor enthusiasts. With their ability to easily navigate through urban areas and off-road trails, e-bikes are an excellent alternative to traditional bicycles and providing an easy transportation to tour the areas near the campground. We had the opportunity to evaluate the Troxus Lynx 750W Low Step Fat Tire Electric Bike and explore its features, benefits, and ease of use. Below are some of the features of the e-bike.  View the video below of our Troxus E-Bike Tour of the Lake Tobesofkee Campground.

Troxus Lynx 750W Low Step Fat Tire Electric Bike

The Troxus Lynx 750W Low Step Fat Tire Electric Bike is a high-quality electric bike and with its powerful 750W motor, low step frame, and fat tires, this bike is perfect for of RV adventures and urban commuting alike. The Troxus E-Bike Lynx we tested is equipped with a long-lasting lithium-ion battery that provides up to 60 miles of range on a single charge. Additionally, the bike features hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear suspension, and an intuitive LCD display that shows speed, distance, and battery life.

Key Features of the Troxus Lynx E-Bike

The Troxus Lynx 750W Low Step Fat Tire Electric Bike is equipped with a powerful 750W motor that provides plenty of power for off-road adventures and urban commuting. The motor is located in the rear hub and provides pedal assistance up to 26mph.

Low Step Frame

The Lynx features a low step frame that makes it easy to get on and off the bike. This feature is especially helpful for those with mobility issues or for those who are comfortable riding an e-bike, but make have limited mobility issues to stretch over the high bar of a traditional bike.

Fat Tires

The Lynx’s fat tires this Troxus e-bike provide excellent traction and stability on all types of terrain. The tires are 4 inches wide and are designed to absorb shock and provide a comfortable ride.

Long-Lasting Lithium-Ion Battery

The Lynx’s lithium-ion battery provides up to 60 miles of range on a single charge. The battery is easily removable and can be charged in just a few hours using the included charger.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The Lynx is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes that provide excellent stopping power and control. The brakes are low maintenance and are designed to last for many years.

Front and Rear Suspension

The Lynx’s front and rear suspension provides a smooth ride on all types of terrain. The suspension is adjustable and can be tuned to the rider’s preferences.

Intuitive LCD Display

The Lynx’s intuitive LCD display shows speed, distance, and battery life. The display is easy to read and provides all the information the rider needs to make informed decisions about their ride.

Our Experience Using the Troxus E-Bike in our RV Travels

Convenience

The Lynx’s electric motor with this Troxus E-Bike provides pedal assistance, making it easier to climb hills and ride for longer distances. This convenience factor is especially helpful for those who may not have the stamina or physical ability to ride a traditional bike for extended periods of time.

Fun and Enjoyable

The Lynx’s fat tires and powerful motor make riding the bike a fun and enjoyable experience. Whether we were exploring the area around the campground, nearby bike trails, commuting through the city, the Troxus E-Bike Lynx was a fun way to enjoy the surroundings,

Ride Comfort and Handling

The fat tires on the Troxus E-Bike provide excellent traction and stability on all types of terrain, including sand, loose dirt, and gravel.

Powerful Motor

The Lynx’s 750W motor provides plenty of power. I’m over 6 feet tall and weigh 200 pounds and the Troxus E-Bike required little to no effort as we traveled along the trails and navigated the steep hills.

Long-Lasting Battery

The Lynx’s lithium-ion battery provides up to 60 miles of range on a single charge. During our test we road the Troxus E-Bike over 20 miles and used less than a bar of battery capacity.

Our Troxus E-Bike Tour of Lake Tobesofkee Campground

Nestled in the heart of Georgia, the Lake Tobesofkee Campground is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its large recreational lake, lush forests, two large campgrounds, and endless recreational opportunities, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Natural Beauty of Lake Tobesofkee Campground

One of the main attractions of Lake Tobesofkee Campground is its natural beauty. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, the lake offers a stunning backdrop for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Camping at Lake Tobesofkee Campground

If you’re looking for a place to pitch your tent or park your RV, Lake Tobesofkee Campground has plenty of options. With campsites spread across two different areas, you can choose a spot that suits your needs and preferences.

Water Activities

Lake Tobesofkee is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. With its large recreational lake, and sandy beaches, it’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. You can rent a boat from the nearby private marina to explore the lake or cast your line and try to catch some fish from the banks edge.

Playground and Picnic Areas

If you’re traveling with kids, Lake Tobesofkee Campground has a playground and picnic areas that are perfect for family outings. You can enjoy a meal or snack while the little ones run around and play. T

Disc Golf

The campground features a fun 27 hole disc gold course that plays thru the woods and along the lake in Claystone Park. It is very scenic, well maintained, and supports multiple target locations on most holes.

Restaurants and Stores Nearby

There are several restaurants and stores within a short drive from the campground, including a grocery store, gas station, fast-food chains, and the ever popular Fish and Pig Restaurant located on the edge of the lake.

Load Up the RV

With its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly activities, Lake Tobesofkee is the ideal spot for a weekend getaway or a longer camping trip.

Whether you want to relax by the water, beach, challenge yourself the disc gold course, or visit the many historical sites located around Macon, GA, Lake Tobesofkee Campground has something for everyone.

Troxus e-bike

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Troxus E-Bike Tour of Lake Tobesofkee Campground

SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator

SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator

By Jerry Neal – iLoveRVlife.com

When it comes to RV travel, keeping your food and drinks fresh is essential. However, traditional iceboxes or coolers can be inconvenient and ineffective. That’s where SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator comes in – an excellent alternative to traditional cooling methods for RV travel.

SetPower 12 Volt Refrigerator

Here are some of the key features that make the PT55 stand out:

  • Dual Zone Design – The PT55 has two separate compartments that can be set to different temperatures, allowing storage of frozen and refrigerated items in the same unit.
  • Low Power Consumption – The PT55 uses just 45 watts of power per hour, making it a very energy-efficient refrigerator. This gave us the opportunity to extended trips off the grid without worrying about our power source.
  • Digital Display – The PT55 features an easy-to-read digital display that shows the temperature of each compartment.
  • Compact Design – Despite its large 55-liter capacity, the PT55 has a compact design that made it easy to fit into our 5th wheel storage compartment.
  • Quite Operation – The SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator is very quiet, producing only 45 decibels of noise. Less volume than a normal conversation.

Dual Zone Cooling

One of the standout features of the SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator is its dual-zone cooling system. he compartments can be set to temperatures between 0°F and 50°F, making it perfect for storing frozen goods, and meats or general refrigeration making it ideal for storing drinks, fruits, and vegetables.

With this dual-zone system, we didn’t have to worry about running out of space or having to choose between keeping certain items cool or frozen.

Efficient and Durable Design

The refrigerator is made with high-quality materials and advanced cooling technology and we found the fridge handled the bumps and shakes during road travel and provided reliable cooling.

The fridge features a high-efficiency compressor that provides rapid cooling and low power consumption, critical for extending our battery power. It also has an intelligent battery protection system that automatically shuts off the fridge if battery voltage drops below a certain level. The refrigerator consume less than 45 watts per hour depending on outside temperatures.

The SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator has an intuitive control panel that allowed us to adjust the temperature and switch between the two compartments with ease. It also has a built-in LED light that illuminates the inside of the fridge, making it easy to find what we were looking for items in low light conditions.

Traveling with the SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator

The SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator is a great addition for our RV travels. With its energy-efficient design, dual zone compartments, and flexible storage, the PT55 worked perfect for our outdoor entertainment and additional freezer needs. The PT55 offers a very cost effective solution for RV travel as well as those who need a primary refrigerator for their van or bus build.

Our thanks to SetPower for providing the PT55 for our review. If you are considering a portable refrigerator for your RV travels, see the helpful links below.

SetPower pt55 portable refrigerator

Helpful Links:

SetPower PT55 58Qt Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator

SetPower PT35 37Qt Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator

SetPower PT45 48Qt Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: SetPower PT55 Dual Zone 12 Volt Refrigerator

Using TST 770 Tire Monitor on our 5th Wheel and F-350

Using TST 770 Tire Monitor on our 5th Wheel and F-350

By Jerry Neal – iLoveRVlife.com

We are always on the lookout for ways to make our RV travel safer. Finding a way to manage our tire pressures became critical having experienced not one but two catastrophic tire blowouts that caused extensive damage to our previous 5th wheel. In this blog and attached video, we share the features and ease of installation of the TST 770 tire monitor to improve safety and tire longevity as we travel in our Montana 5th wheel.

Why use a TPMS for an RV?

RVs have unique tire pressure needs compared to passenger vehicles, and tire blowouts can be particularly dangerous for larger and heavier RVs. Equally important is the ability to monitor the tires for vehicles in tow by a Class A or C RV.

One of the most significant benefits of using a TPMS is to improve the safety of RV travel. Tire blowouts can be extremely dangerous for RVs, as they can cause extensive damage to the tow vehicle or create a situations that can cause a potential loss of control. With the TST 770 TPMS, we now have the ability to monitor our tire state in real-time and receive alerts if the pressure drops or the tire experience excessive high temperatures.

The TST 770 TPMS

The TST 770 TPMS is a wireless system that monitors an RV’s tire pressure and temperature in real-time. The TST 770 color monitor alarms in the event of low pressure, high pressure, rapid pressure loss, slow leaks, and high temperature giving time to get off the road before a possible blowout occurs.

Features

Some of the key features of the TST 770 TPMS include:

  • Wireless sensors that transmit data to the monitor in real-time
  • Monitor 1 tow vehicle and up to 5 trailers
  • Supports up to 46 tires
  • Full color touch screen monitor auto-scrolls through each tire reporting PSI and temperature
  • Customizable high and low pressure and temperature alerts
  • Real-time direction of travel, altitude, and speed readings
  • Easy installation
  • Long battery life for the sensors
  • Included signal repeater allows the TST 770 monitor to read sensor signals up to 105 feet away from the monitor

Installing the TST 770 TPMS and Tire Sensors

Our Montana 5th wheel came equipped with TST internal tire sensors that were installed from the factory. We have been monitoring the 5th wheel tires with the TST 507 monitor since purchase. Meeting with the TST factory representatives at the Florida RV SuperShow, they along with TechnoRV sent us the new TST 770 TMPS along with six cap style tire sensors for our F-350 dually.

This TST 770 has a large color display when compared to the the 507 with a number of added features. The TST 770 was a breeze to set up and took minutes to configure the cap sensors for the F-350 and the existing internal sensors on the 5th wheel. The cap style sensors were easy to screw on our F-350 valve stems completing the installation.

The TST 770 monitor comes with a window suction cup and magnetic attachment. The monitor can be used with this mount or any standard magnetic dash display mount.

Results Using the TST 770 TPMS

The TST 770 TPMS gives us the peace of mind as we tow our 5th wheel. We now have the ability to observe real-time tire pressure and temperature data with customizable alerts, and the ability to monitor both the 5th wheel and truck tires. The TST 770 TPMS and it’s easy to ready display will alert us of any tire issues that occur before they become major problems.

Our thanks to Truck Systems Technologies and TechnoRV for providing the TST 770 TPMS for our review. View the video below to see how easy it is to install the cap sensors and configure the TST 770. We’ve also provided helpful links below if you are considering a TPMS purchase.
TST 770 Tire monitor

Helpful Links:

TST 770 TPMS with 4 CAP sensors

TST CAP Sensors (2 Pack)

TST Flow Thru Sensors (2 Pack)

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Using TST 770 Tire Monitor on our 5th Wheel and F-350

E-bike Tour Around Daytona Beach

E-bike Tour Around Daytona Beach


E-bike Tour Around Daytona Beach

by Jerry Neal | Apr 1, 2023

It was a beautiful late March day in Daytona Beach. This was a perfect time for our new Hovsco and taking an e-bike tour around Daytona Beach. We’ve found Daytona Beach to be very bike friendly with bike paths, designated bike lanes along most of the roads, and large well maintained sidewalks. The bridges also have extra wide lanes for bikes and pedestrians making it very easy to navigate the area.

Hovsco E-Bike

hovsco e-bikeWe wanted to see how well the e-bike would:

  • Navigate the extra tall bridges in the area.
  • Take the strain off the rider.
  • Travel on a single charge.

The e-bike has 5 levels that can be set to assist in pedaling. Hovsco reports the e-bike is capable of reaching a distance of 60 miles using the level 1 pedal assist setting. We road a 22 mile loop and only used one bar of power.

Our Daytona Beach E-Tour Route

e-bike over halifax river daytona beachAs far as distance and difficulty, we purposely didn’t choose the easiest route. We had to navigate two bridges across the Halifax River and both had very high arches supporting boat traffic. The e-bike removed virtually all of the effort required for the steep up hill climbs.

We found the roads to be very friendly for riding bikes. Most had designated bike lanes, wide sidewalks, or both. Busy road intersections were easy to cross with electronic buttons to stop traffic.

We stopped at a number of parks along the way. The area of Daytona Beach, South Dayton, Daytona Beach Shores and Ponce Inlet have a number of bike friendly parks with trails that are both easy to navigate and scenic. We stopped at several of the inland parks, but all of the parks along the beach were closed for repairs due to the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. Work was underway and I hope to see these parks reopened soon.  We also road along the beach and we’re surprised to see a number of other e-bike riders enjoying this warn March day.

From Start To Finish

The tour from start to finish took us three and a half hours. I was very surprised of the little fatigue felt from the long ride. It was great getting out, meeting other riders along the way, and enjoying the views at the beach. I’m looking forward to our return and finding other routes to experience for our next e-bike tour around Daytona Beach.

e-bike tour around daytona beach

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: E-bike Tour Around Daytona Beach

I Love RV Life – The Poem

I Love RV Life – The Poem


I Love RV Life – The Poem

by Jerry Neal | Mar 30, 2023

I LOVE RV LIFE – THE POEM

I love RV life, oh how I adore
The open road, the freedom to explore
From mountains to beaches, and everything between
There’s so much to see, so much to glean

The engine roars as we hit the gas
Adventure awaits, let’s make it last
The world is our playground, we’re on the go
No need to rush, no need to be slow

Campgrounds and parks, they’re all our home
A new backyard wherever we roam
The sound of nature, the chirping birds
Life’s simple pleasures, without any words

The stars above, the moonlit sky
A perfect view, just you and I
The crackling fire, a cozy night
This is the RV life, pure delight

I love RV life, the memories we make
The laughter, the joy, it’s all at stake
So let’s hit the road, and chase the sun
The RV life, we’ve just begun.

Copyright 2023 – I Love RV Life

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: I Love RV Life – The Poem

Using a Synology NAS in an RV

Using a Synology NAS in an RV


Using a Synology NAS in an RV

by Jerry Neal | Mar 25, 2023

Working from an RV is very similar to having a home or small office. Comfortable workspace, tools for the job, Internet, phone and a desk computer or laptop. Something often missed is the need for data storage or backup. In today’s digital world, data storage and management are crucial for both individuals and businesses. The sheer amount of data that we generate and accumulate makes it necessary to have a reliable and secure storage solution.  A Network-Attached Storage (NAS) device is a popular choice for many users because of its ease of use and functionality. We’re a using a Synology NAS in an RV to store work files and entertainment. A very cost effect solution with a wide range of features.

Why have a NAS?

If your work has important data that must be saved for future reference and you don’t have a backup plan, then you may experience a work catastrophe if you desktop PC or laptop fails and you’re unable to retrieve work files.

This is equally important for those who home school. Having backups of all of the critical student data. Much is purchased and the loss could be expensive to replicate.

Lastly is entertainment. Having the ability to access video and music when traveling is a great benefit. Many times, Joan and I are in an area where we have poor Internet and having access to a stored video library gives us a wide range of entertainment options.

We have used portable hard drives in the past for our data storage needs, but this has limitations. These drive are expensive. Then there’s storage and attempting to catalog what’s on each backup drive. It never fails, that I have to go through multiple drives to find my data. Then there access from multiple devices – various laptops, tablets, and our Roku for video files. This is where the NAS excels. A NAS provides a method to store files on a large hard drive and everyone who has access can obtain the files when needed.

Using a Synology NAS

Synology DS118The Synology DS 118 NAS is a compact, yet powerful storage device that is designed for home and small office use. It features a 64-bit quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM, which enables it to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without any lag. It also supports up to 12TB of storage, making it an ideal choice for users who need to store a large amount of data.

The Synology DS 118 NAS runs on Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM), an intuitive operating system that enables users to easily manage and access their data. DSM offers a range of features and applications, including file sharing, media streaming, backup and restore, and cloud synchronization. It also provides advanced security features, such as data encryption and two-factor authentication, to ensure data is safe and secure.

We chose the NAS 118 as a backup and storage solution. It has a single hard drive, but other models have two or more drives for redundancy. We used a 8Tb hard drive, but the Synology DS 118 can support up to a 12TB drive. To use the Synology you must have a router with Ethernet ports. We use a Cradlepoint Cellular WiFi router and there are other models by other manufacturers of varying cost and performance that can offer similar access. CLICK HERE to see our Cradlepoint installation.

One of the biggest advantages of the Synology DS 118 NAS is its ease of use. Setting up the device is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive web-based interface. Users can easily configure settings, set up shared folders, and access data from anywhere in the world using Synology’s mobile app or web interface.

Plex Media Server

Plex Media ServerWe like the benefit of having our video library stored where we don’t have the need for a DVD player or store hundreds of DVDs. We installed the Plex Media Server on our Synology and now have the ability to access our media content across multiple devices and platforms including our tablets and ROKU digital media player.

Our media files are ripped from DVDs we’ve purchased and use DVDfab to convert the video to MP4 files. Plex automatically organizes our media content, adds metadata to it, and creates a media library for easy access.

It took minutes to install, connect to our router, and configure the Synology DS 118 for our needs. Adding Plex was effortless, but uploading all of the videos can take some time. This is a cost effect solution to provide backup storage for our work, iLoveRVlife, and entertainment data files.

Synology NAS working from your RV

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Using a Synology NAS in an RV

Day 5 – 2023 Florida RV SuperShow Class A Class C Super C RVs and Vans

Day 5 – 2023 Florida RV SuperShow Class A Class C Super C RVs and Vans


Day 5 – 2023 Florida RV SuperShow Class A Class C Super C RVs and Vans

by Jerry Neal | Jan 24, 2023

We are completing day 5, our final day at the 2023 Florida RV SuperShow. Today Joan and I tour motor coaches with a tour of RV SuperShow Class A, Class B, Class C, Super C, and Vans. We show several of our favorites from our early morning start on day 5 continuing our tour till late afternoon. To provide a video of reasonable length for viewing, we show the insides without all the details of chassis, motor plants, and many of the technical aspects. We share the models of each toured where our viewer can checkout the builders website. If provided, we also share the price of each from the most expensive to those RVs that fit a moderate budget.

As a recap, we walked 5 to 6 miles each day and yet, we ran out of time to veiw all the RV suppliers, but we tried!. We met so many iLoveRVlife viewers who were so gracious sharing many of their favorite videos and many kind words of support for Joan and me. We toured more RV than I can even estimate, but expect it was well over one hundred. It was a great SuperShow, with a wide range of RVs on display, vendor products, and a Florida RV SuperShow staff that worked diligently to ensure everyone had a great experience.

SuperShow Class A

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Day 5 – 2023 Florida RV SuperShow Class A Class C Super C RVs and Vans

Day 4 – 2023 Florida RV SuperShow –  Our Favorite RV Products Vendors

Day 4 – 2023 Florida RV SuperShow – Our Favorite RV Products Vendors


Day 4 – 2023 Florida RV SuperShow – Our Favorite RV Products Vendors

by Jerry Neal | Jan 22, 2023

We continue our tour of the 2023 Florida RV SuperShow. There are a number of buildings in the fairground dedicated to a wide variety of RV products and services. This video contains a number of our favorite RV products vendors sharing their latest innovations including: Battle Born Batteries, RV Mobile Connect, Active Controls, TST tire pressure monitoring, RV Life Pro, Morryde, and Escapees RV Club.

2023 florida rv supershow vendors

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Day 4 – 2023 Florida RV SuperShow – Our Favorite RV Products Vendors

Daytona Beach – Marine Science Center and More

Daytona Beach – Marine Science Center and More


Daytona Beach – Marine Science Center and More

by Jerry Neal | Mar 18, 2023

Joan and I travel to Daytona Beach, FL several times throughout the year to visit family. This is one of our favorites destinations and we have been coming here before RV life and now with the Montana 5th wheel in tow. There’s much to see and do from the beach, famous Boardwalk, great restaurants, and so much more. But, there are times when we try to find those interesting places that are fun to experience and may fit when we need to stretch the budget.

On this trip we visit the Marine Science Center at Ponce Inlet, Veterans Museum in Daytona Beach, an afternoon trip to historic St. Augustine, all while sharing great places to eat, some of the sites, and a I’m cooking supper at the end of the day.

Marine Science Center – Ponce Inlet, FL

Our first stop was the Marine Science Center where we could learn and experience Volusia County’s rich marine life. We were able to learn about the Center’s efforts with sea turtle and sea bird rehabilitation, touch the live sting rays, and enjoy a wide range of sea life. This was a fun experience for both both kid and adults.

Veterans Museum – Daytona Beach, FL

The slogan “Freedom is not Free” could not be more true then visiting the Veterans Museum to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the brave men and women of the United States armed forces. The museum provides a wide range of displays from the time of the founding of our country to current with articles and information about the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. This too is a great place for adults to reflect and for the younger generation to gain an understanding of the contributions from those who serve our county to protect our freedom.

St. Augustine, FL

It’s been over 3 years since our last trip to St. Augustine and the drive from Daytona Beach is around 30 minutes north. When we visited in 2020, we were in the middle of the COVID-19 outbreak and there was very little available to experience. But things have changed drastically in 3 years and with those in the area from Spring Break, the streets and shops were packed with visitors. We stopped in many of the shops for sweets, candles, a few specialty items, and ate at our favorite restaurant – Athena for Greek food. And then a stop at the hot sauce store where I tried several large samples Carolina Reaper sauces. YES! They were hot!!

This was a fun day and most of all it was budget friendly.. There’s more to experience. Check out the links below the video of other fun places to see in the Daytona Beach area.

Daytona Beach Marine Science Center

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Daytona Beach – Marine Science Center and More

MORryde Safe T Rail Telescoping RV Hand Rail

MORryde Safe T Rail Telescoping RV Hand Rail


MORryde Safe T Rail Telescoping RV Hand Rail

by Jerry Neal | Jan 28, 2023

I’ve been looking for an improvement for our step railing into our RV to assist Joan when going in out of our 5th wheel. I discovered the MORryde Safe T Rail Telescoping RV Hand Rail at the 2023 Florida RV SuperShow and purchase one to install on our Montana.

Why We Purchased A MORryde Safe T Rail

Joan has lower back issues that affect her mobility when using steps and using those basic fold against the door handrails causes discomfort on the long reach into the 5th wheel. Joan doesn’t need the lateral or side to side strength in a railing as much as something to pull up or support going down. The MORryde Safe T Rail Telescoping RV Hand Rail is a good solution providing a railing beginning at the first step and then folds flat against the 5th wheel when traveling.

Installing the MORryde Safe T Rail

The installation took about an hour and wasn’t difficult when following the easy to read instructions from the package. Suggest having an extra set of hands to hold the MORryde Safe T Rail in place when marking holes and setting screws. Also make sure you have at least two and a quarter inches between the outside door frame and the awning strut for the placement of the top railing bracket.

MORryde Safe T Rail

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: MORryde Safe T Rail Telescoping RV Hand Rail

RV Portable Generator Slide Out Tray

RV Portable Generator Slide Out Tray


RV Portable Generator Slide Out Tray

by Jerry Neal | Feb 11, 2023

We’ve owned a Powerhorse 4500 portable inverter generator for over a year. The generator has performed well and does a good job powering the 120V AC options in our Montana 5th wheel including one of the air conditioners. The problem has been a way to store the generator when we travel. Aside from the generator weighing over 100 pounds, it’s too high by 2 inches to fit under our truck bed tonneau cover. Freeing up space in the front storage area of the 5th wheel from a recent battery upgrade, I came up with the perfect solution. I built a RV portable generator slide out tray.

Building the RV Portable Generator Slide Out Tray

rv portable generator slide out trayI chose to build the RV portable generator slide out tray using one inch square tubing. This provide both the strength needed to support the generator and was the most economical solution. I own a welder and have the tools to cut the tubing which is another plus. I considered using extruded aluminum which would have given similar results, but the cost of the frame would have been around three times the cost of the steel tubing.

One other tip is to measure the generator and planned storage area considering each variation for generator placement then create a drawing for the project. I went through a number of versions before I settled on the overall dimensions, fit for the storage compartment and equally important, how the generator would be secured to the slide out when traveling.

rv portable generator slide out trayThe next important component was the locking slide used to extend the generator tray outside of the 5th wheel storage compartment. I chose a 500 pound capacity slide knowing this far exceeded the weight of the portable generator. The cost difference between a 150 and 500 pound slide wasn’t significant and gave me the extra assurance the generator would have a firm foundation when extended.

In the video below, I show excepts building the slide out tray and supporting frame. One tip – take the extra step to ensure the distance required by the slides are within one-sixteenth of an inch. This is critical for the slide to operate properly, not bind, and lock in place.

Using the RV Portable Generator Slide Out Tray

rv portable generator slide out trayThe final building and use results for the slide out tray were perfect. Working out the dimensions prior to the build and then building the frame to meet the side out mechanism paid off. With a simple release of the slide lock, I can extend or push back into the storage bay with ease. Running the generator while the slide out is extended did not cause any sag in the tray. Purchasing the 500 pound slide mechanisms had a big pay off.

Now we can travel in our 5th wheel with ease knowing adding stops along the that may not have electrical hook ups will no longer be a problem.

 

RV portable generator slide out tray

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: RV Portable Generator Slide Out Tray

LANpwr Lithium Battery RV Upgrade

LANpwr Lithium Battery RV Upgrade


LANpwr Lithium Battery RV Upgrade

by Jerry Neal | Feb 4, 2023

Joan and I continue to extend our RV travels and many times we have the need for long, multi-state tows with breaks in the middle to stretch, have lunch, along with 30 minutes of downtime before we continue the trip. The tow and the stop requires power, 12V DC power for our residential fridge, lights, fans or furnace, even small appliances. We have gas and lithium powered generators, but that too adds time to hook up and replace adding time to our tow that’s already too long. It was time for a LANpwr Lithium Battery RV Upgrade replacing our limited lead acid golf cart batteries.

LANpwr 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 Battery

LANpwr contacted us and asked if we were interested in evaluating their Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. This was a perfect opportunity since we had plans to up grade our 5th wheel 12V system this year. We needed 300Ah to replace our existing batteries and chose to go with a single 300Ah, 3840Wh LANpwr Lithium Battery Model LFP12-300 versus 3 – 100Ah batteries to save space. The battery specifications for the Model LF12-300 is shown in the chart below.

LANpwr 300Ah Lithium Battery RV Specs

Adding LiFePO4 batteries to your RV can be an expensive undertaking and to manage cost we select this model understanding the battery did not contain sensors to turn off battery charging in temperatures below 32F/0C and did not include internal heaters. We had a simple, yet inexpensive fix by adding a 12V heater pad to the cover we planned to build.

Installing the LANpwr Battery and Victron Smart Shunt

Removing the old batteries took about 15 minutes and installing the new LANpwr 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 batter took another 15 minutes. We chose to install the new battery in our main storage bay that is better insulated and has a heater duct to offer better protection.

We are expecting times when we will not be in the Montana, yet pedestal power will be available to keep the battery charged for our next trip. While this is a benefit, charging the battery during temperatures below 32F/0C will cause damage. The simple fix is adding a heater pad commonly found on RV water tanks to the plywood box we built to cover the battery, We used a Facon heater pad that also contains a built-in sensor that will turn on when temperatures drop to 45F and will turn of at 68F. The RV heating pad was not affixed to the battery and adhered to the top of the plywood battery box.

We did not have any method to monitor our battery performance or current state. We have a Victron solar charger that provides basic charging information, but we needed more data. We purchased a Victron 500A Smart Shunt and took extra time to improve the wiring distribution in the front of the 5th wheel. This took half a day and the results gave us a more manageable environment as we plan other upgrades in the future.

LANpwr Lithium Battery RV Upgrade Results

The battery performance exceeded our expectations. With the newly installed Victron Smart Shunt we were able to accurately track battery performance. To simulate a day when we experience a long multi-state tow and then spend the night, we disconnected from pedestal power operating the 5th wheel on the new LANpwr battery only. We chose to do the test on a heavily overcast day along with heavy rain to ensure we had no solar power. We first ran lights, TV and our residential fridge over 5 hours to simulate a stop for the evening. Then left the residential fridge running for another 19 hours as we would experience on a long two day day with an evening break. At the end of the 24 hours we only consumed 65% of the LANpwr Lithium battery.

In a worse case scenario, with no external power, and in a climate where air conditioning isn’t needed, we could easily operate the 5th wheel for at least 3 days and with reasonable solar charging from our 200 Watt panels, we could extend our time without the need to recharge from a gas generator. When comparing the new LANpwr battery to our previous lead acid golf cart batteries, the smaller configuration of the Lithium battery, a significant reduction in weight, and the added discharge capacity was a win win solution for this LANpwr Lithium Battery RV Upgrade.

We would like to thank LANpwr for providing their Lithium battery for review and have provided links below the video where you can purchase along with the other items mentioned in this blog and the video.

LANpwr Lithium Battery RV Upgrade

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: LANpwr Lithium Battery RV Upgrade

Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator

Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator


Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator

by Jerry Neal | Mar 4, 2023

Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator: A Convenient and Energy-Efficient Solution for RV, Van, and Bus Travel

We were tired of lugging around a heavy and cumbersome cooler on our RV trips. We have the space in our storage area and needed a small 12 Volt refrigerator to store beverages when we are entertaining outdoors as well as overflow for those bargain items when the main refrigerator is full. We have been evaluating various 12 Volt portable refrigerators looking for a unit that is compact, energy-efficient, and easy to use. We were contacted to try the Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator.

Bodega has a wide range of 12 Volt refrigerators and understands the importance of having a reliable and efficient refrigerator while on the road. They designed the Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator to meet the specific needs of RV, Van and Bus travelers.

Energy-Efficient and Environmentally Friendly

The Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator uses advanced compressor technology to provide energy-efficient cooling. With an energy consumption of only 60 watts, it is one of the more efficient 12 Volt RV refrigerators on the market.

Compact and Easy to Install

Bodega 12 Volt RV fridge specsIt has a compact size that makes it easy to fit into tight spaces, such as small RV, Van or Bus kitchens. Additionally, it has a sleek black finish that gives it a modern look and blends in well with any interior.

 The refrigerator comes in capacities of 1.6, 2.3 and 3 cubic feet, providing ample space for food and drink storage needs. The 1.6 cubic foot model measures 14 x 19 x 21 inches allowing the Bodega 12 Volt RV refrigerator to fit in most RVs, Vans or Buses. It is also easy to install with a fused hardwire connection into a 12V DC power source.  For our installation we installed the 1.6 cubic feet model.

Quiet and Reliable

The Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator is quiet operating at less than 42dB which is less than most conversations. It is well built, with a high-efficiency DC compressor and provides a 2-year warranty on compressor and other parts.

Versatile and Convenient

The Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator is versatile and convenient, with a variety of features that makes it good choice for a RV, Van or Bus installation. It has an adjustable temperature control, so you can easily set it to your desired temperature. It also has a reversible door, so you can choose which side it opens from, depending on the layout of your RV.

Plus, it has a convenient built-in LED light, so you can easily see what’s inside, even in low light conditions. And with its compact size and energy-efficient cooling, it has a low drain of the 12 volt battery supply.

Overall, the Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator is an excellent choice for those who want a reliable, energy-efficient refrigerator for their RV, Van or Bus. With its compact size, adjustable temperature control, and low power consumption, it’s a great choice for food and drink storage needs while on the road.

Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Bodega 12 Volt RV Refrigerator

Victron SmartShunt: RV or Off-Grid Battery Monitor

Victron SmartShunt: RV or Off-Grid Battery Monitor


Victron SmartShunt: RV or Off-Grid Battery Monitor

by Jerry Neal | Feb 18, 2023

Whether you’re powering an RV, boat, or off-grid cabin, managing your battery’s state of charge is essential to ensure uninterrupted power supply. Traditional battery monitors can be challenging to install and operate, and they may not provide the accuracy and reliability you need. That’s where the Victron SmartShunt comes in. This advanced battery monitor is designed to provide precise information on your battery’s state of charge, performance, and more. In this article, we’ll explore the features and benefits of the Victron SmartShunt and how it can help you better manage your power needs, and a video at the end with our RV installation.

Article Topics

  • What is the Victron SmartShunt?
  • How does the Victron SmartShunt work?
  • Key features of the Victron SmartShunt
  • Benefits of using the Victron SmartShunt
  • How to install the Victron SmartShunt
  • Frequently asked questions about the Victron SmartShunt

What is the Victron SmartShunt?

The Victron SmartShunt is a high-precision battery monitor that allows you to accurately monitor your battery’s state of charge and performance. It’s designed to work with the VictronConnect app, which provides real-time information on your battery’s status, including voltage, current, power, and state of charge. The Victron SmartShunt is available in several different models, depending on the size and type of battery you’re using. For our installation we used the Victron SmartShunt 500 amp Battery Monitor with Bluetooth.

How does the Victron SmartShunt work?

VictronConnect AppThe Victron SmartShunt works by measuring the battery’s voltage and current and transmitting this information via Bluetooth to the VictronConnect app. The app uses this data to calculate the battery’s state of charge, power, and other parameters. The Victron SmartShunt also features built-in Bluetooth connectivity, for viewing battery performance with a smartphone or tablet.

Key features of the Victron SmartShunt

  • High-precision measurements: Provides accurate and reliable measurements of your battery’s state of charge, current, voltage, and more.
  • Bluetooth connectivity: Features built-in Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily monitor your battery’s status using the VictronConnect app.
  • Easy installation: Is easy to install and can be used with a variety of battery types and sizes.
  • Real-time monitoring: Provides real-time information on your battery’s status, so you can monitor your power usage and plan your energy needs accordingly.

Benefits of using the Victron SmartShunt

  • Accurate monitoring: The Victron SmartShunt provides precise information on your battery’s state of charge and performance, so you can manage your power needs more effectively.
  • Improved battery life: By monitoring your battery’s state of charge, you can avoid overcharging or discharging, which can prolong the life of your battery.
  • Easy to use: The Victron SmartShunt is easy to install and operate, making it a convenient and user-friendly battery monitor.
  • Cost-effective: The Victron SmartShunt is an affordable way to monitor your battery’s performance and avoid costly battery replacements.

How to install the Victron SmartShunt

Installing Victron SmartShuntInstalling the Victron SmartShunt is a straightforward process:

  1. Disconnect the battery from the charging source.
  2. Connect the Victron SmartShunt labeled “TO BATTERY MINUS” to the negative cable of the battery.
  3. Connect the other end of the NEGATIVE CABLE TO Victron SmartShunt labeled “TO SYSTEM MINUS”.
  4. Connect the provided fused power wire to the Victron SmartShunt Vbatt+ located at the bottom of the shunt to a 12V DC positive battery source.
  5. Reconnect the battery to the charging source.
  6. Refer to the battery specification sheet and the Victron SmartShunt manual for configuration changes. Load the Victron SmartConnect app to your smart phone pr tablet. Access the SmartShut app, click the setting gear logo located at the top right of the app, and change the settings per battery and manual recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • What is the difference between the Bluetooth-enabled and non-Bluetooth-enabled Victron SmartShunt? The Bluetooth-enabled model of the SmartShunt allows you to monitor your battery’s status in real-time through your smartphone or tablet. The non-Bluetooth-enabled model does not have this feature.
  • How accurate is the Victron SmartShunt? The SmartShunt is highly accurate and provides precise information on your battery’s state of charge, power consumption, and more.
  • Can I install the Victron SmartShunt myself? Yes, the SmartShunt is easy to install, but if you are not familiar with high amperage 12V DC current and industry standard installation processes, you should seek a professional RV technician to perform the installation.
  • How can the Victron SmartShunt extend my battery’s lifespan? By providing accurate information on your battery’s status, the SmartShunt can help you avoid overcharging or discharging, which can damage the battery.

The Victron SmartShunt is an essential component of any off-grid or mobile power system. With its advanced features and easy-to-use design, you can easily monitor your battery’s status and ensure that you always have the power you need.

Victron Smart Shunt

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: Victron SmartShunt: RV or Off-Grid Battery Monitor

LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery

LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery


LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery

by Jerry Neal | Mar 11, 2023

Lithium-ion batteries have become increasingly popular for RV use due to their high energy density, long lifespan, and low maintenance requirements. Among these, the LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) battery is a particularly promising technology, offering exceptional performance in terms of safety, durability, and efficiency. We put the LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery through a real life test for 30 hours and had great results.

The LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 lithium battery is a great choice for a wide range of applications including RV and marine power systems, off-grid solar power systems, and emergency backup power. The LiTime 300Ah 12V battery has an impressive capacity of 300Ah and during our test it provided reliable power for extended periods. This is particularly perfect for our RV trips when traveling long distances and for overnight stays when we have no campground power for our residential refrigerator, lighting, entertainment, and small 120V appliances.

Features and Benefits

LiTime Lithium Battery Specifications

High Energy Density

One of the primary advantages of the LiFePO4 battery technology is its high energy density, which means it can store more energy per unit volume or weight compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. The LiTime 12V 300Ah battery has a capacity of 300Ah, which translates to 3840Wh of energy, allowing you to power your devices for extended periods without needing to recharge.

Long Cycle Life

Another benefit of the LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 lithium battery is its extended lifespan. While traditional lead-acid batteries may last for 3-5 years on average, LiFePO4 batteries can last up to 10 years or a recharge cycle rate of 4,000 times, depending on usage. This makes the battery a great long-term investment for those who require a reliable and durable power source.

Fast Charging and Discharging

The LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 lithium battery features a high charging and discharging rate, up to 4 times faster than lead-acid, to charge or discharge the battery quickly and efficiently. This useful in where solar is used for recharging and and during peak demand periods.

Lightweight and Compact Design

Compared to lead-acid batteries of similar capacity, the LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 lithium battery is significantly lighter and more compact, making them easier to transport and install. The battery weighs only 60lbs, making it a great choice for portable power applications.

Battery Cells and BMS

The LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 lithium battery contains Prismatic cells with higher energy density, more stable performance, and greater power over lead-acid batteries. The battery has a built-in 200A BMS to protect the LiFePO4 Battery from overcharge, over-discharge, over current, and short circuit.

How We Tested

We prefer to test batteries in a real application versus a test bench and battery disassembly. While the latter is useful to verify specifications and overall construction, we want to know how a battery will perform for our RV travel needs.

We wanted to stress the battery with a 30 hour test to resemble a two day extended tow and overnight stay with no campground or solar charging. During our two day test, we had rain and overcast skies leaving us with no charging – a perfect test for the battery.

Our Montana 5th wheel has 7 – 120V AC outlets powered by the LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 lithium battery and a 2000W inverter in addition to general 12V DC lighting and mechanics. For the duration of the test we ran a large 3-door GE residential refrigerator, a small 12V portable refrigerator in our storage bay, small 120V appliances, 50″ 120V TV, and 12V lights. We broke the test into these three following steps:

  1. An 8-hour tow, retracting and extending slides, extending and retracting the awning, and running both refrigerators. At 4 hours, we turned on all lights for a 30 minute lunch break.
  2. Next was a stop overnight with no campground power. For 6-hours, we ran lights, 120V recliner theater seating, 50″ 120V TV, both refrigerators, extended slides, and lighting. Then lights and TV off for 10 hours with refrigerators operating. Next morning, lights on and made coffee and ran a toaster, both 120V appliances.
  3. Last part of the test as another 6-hour tow with both refrigerators running and slides in. At the end of the tow, slides out, and lights for set up.

At the end of two days of travel with no charging input and heavy usage, we still had 20% of the battery remaining. Then plugging into campground power, the batteries were charged in 4 hours by our 75A Progressive Dynamics charger.

We found the LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery to be a very good solution for our RV power system. It’s BMS safety features, high energy density, and long lifespan makes it a better choice over traditional lead-acid batteries.

We appreciate LiTime providing the battery for our review. See the links below the video for more information on the wide range of LiTime lithium batteries.

LiTime Lithium Battery

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: LiTime 12V 300Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery

HOVSCO E-bike HOV Beta for RV Travel

HOVSCO E-bike HOV Beta for RV Travel


HOVSCO E-bike HOV Beta for RV Travel

by Jerry Neal | Feb 25, 2023

Are you planning an RV trip and looking for an eco-friendly way to explore the destination? This HOVSCO e-bike is the perfect companion the for RV traveler who wants to save fuel costs and have fun exploring their surroundings.

Often making short trips with our F-350 dually can be a challenge. It’s long, has a large turning radius, parking can be a challenge, and rising fuel costs are cutting into the travel budget. We have been looking at e-bikes for sometime and was contacted by HOVSCO to review their HOV Beta e-bike that is not only a powerful option for local travel, but easily folds fitting in our 5th wheel storage bay. With its sleek design, powerful motor, and long battery life, this e-bike is the perfect solution for short tours and those convenience trips to the grocery store.

Features of HOVSCO e-bike

The HOVSCO is an electric bicycle designed for travel and leisure. It features a lightweight and foldable frame that makes it easy to store and transport in your RV. The HOVSCO e-bike is:

  • Designed to be easily foldable making the e-bike convenient to store in your RV.
  • Made from lightweight materials making the e-bike easy to transport.
  • Equipped with a 5 level torque sensor takes all effort out of long rides and steep hills with motor assistance.
  • Capable of reaching speeds up to 20mph on throttle, and 28mph on pedal assist,
  • Equipped with a 48V/15Ahr (720Wh) battery to cover long distances.
  • Capable of a range of 40 miles on throttle and 60 miles with pedal assist.
  • Equipped with fast charge capability with the provided 54V 3A charger.
  • Equipped with front and rear disc brakes for added safety.
  • A comfortable ride with the 20” X 4” fat tires and 7-speed Shimano gears.

Benefits of using HOVSCO e-bike for RV travel

Using an e-bike like the HOVSCO for RV travel has many benefits. Here are just a few:

  • Saves money: The HOVSCO e-bike is much more affordable to operate saving money on gas and maintenance costs.
  • Eco-friendly: E-bikes are much more eco-friendly than RVs, as they produce zero emissions and require no fossil fuels to operate.
  • Health benefits: Riding an e-bike is a great way to get exercise and stay active while on vacation.
  • Convenient: With its lightweight and foldable design, the HOVSCO e-bike is easy to store and transport in your RV.
  • Fun: Exploring your destination on an e-bike is a fun and exciting way to see the sights and experience new things.

How to choose the right HOVSCO e-bike for RV travel

When choosing an HOVSCO e-bike for RV travel, there are several factors to consider. These include:

  • Weight capacity: Make sure the e-bike can support your weight and any additional cargo you may be carrying.
  • Range: Consider the range of the e-bike’s battery and whether it will be sufficient for your travel needs.
  • Comfort: Look for an e-bike with a comfortable seat and handlebars, as well as adjustable settings to suit your riding style.
  • Durability: Choose an e-bike made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of RV travel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can the HOVSCO e-bike be ridden without pedaling?
A1. Yes, the e-bike has a throttle that can be used to provide instant power without pedaling.

Q2. How long does the battery last?
A2. The battery can last up to 40 miles on throttle and 60 miles with pedal assist on a single charge, depending on the terrain.

Q3. Is the e-bike difficult to fold and store?
A3. No, the e-bike is designed to be lightweight and easy to fold, making it simple to store in a small space.

Q4. What is the weight capacity of the e-bike?
A4. The e-bike can support a maxium load up to 450 pounds.

Q5. What is the warranty on the e-bike?
A5. HOVSCO offers a two-year limited warranty on the e-bike.

Using an HOVSCO e-bike for RV travels is a convenient, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective way to explore the surrounding area. HOVSCO e-bikes come equipped with advanced features that make them ideal for RV travel, including foldable designs, lightweight materials, and long battery life. We found the HOVSCO HOV Beta e-bike with its weight capacity, range, comfort, and durability a perfect fit for our RV travel needs.

Use the links below if interested in a HOVSCO E-bike. 100$ off coupon code(code name: Jerryrv) is effective for any torque sensor e-bike over 1600$. The discount is effective now and will be invalid after 31, March 2023.

HOVSCO e-bike HOV beta

Helpful Links:

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES


Source: HOVSCO E-bike HOV Beta for RV Travel

Too Many Vineyards to Count – Yadkin Valley NC

Too Many Vineyards to Count – Yadkin Valley NC

Too Many Vineyards to Count – Yadkin Valley NC

by Jerry Neal | Oct 31, 2020

If you’ve been a viewer of our YouTube channel for a while, you’ve noticed we like to visit wineries. Vineyards, wineries and cellars have been a favorite stop since my corporate days working on the west coast with trips to the Napa Valley and Sonoma vineyards. Our RV travels have taken us to a number of wine regions with the most recent in North Georgia and on to North Carolina. For the past couple of weeks we’ve parked the 5th wheel at Byrd’s Branch Campground located in the heart of the Piedmont West Wineries. There are two American Viticultural Areas located in the region, The Yadkin Valley AVA and Swan Creek AVA. In total, there are 77 wineries and vineyards in this region with most located less than 30 miles in any direction from the campground.

Leaving Pretention Behind!

Regardless of one’s view of wine, this region of North Carolina is fun. We usually refer to our excursions as “boots and blue jean wine tours” without any of the stuffiness many think of when visiting a winery. For our group, we leave the pretention and all the jargon behind and prefer to have fun while soaking in the beauty of the land and meeting the fine folks who nurture the vine and create good wine. We don’t get hung up on the fancy talk and aroma bouquets. Our formula is simple – if it tastes good, we’ll buy it.

Wine tasting was different this visit with most of the tasting rooms moved outside and moving to flights which has now become our preferred method to experience new wines. In this blog and the video below, we’ll highlight our first two days of these vineyards.

Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery

Raffaldini Vineyards is a family-owned vineyard that brings a Tuscan Charm to this area. The winey and the surrounding vineyards with the rise of the Western Carolina Mountains in the background was the most picturesque of this trip. Typically, we find more American style wines on the east coast, but Raffaldini Vineyards was a treat to experience classically dry Italian style wines.

Piccione Vineyards

Piccione Vineyards is located minutes from Raffaldini Vineyards traveling less than 100 yards from entrance to entrance. This was the second location where we experienced Italian wines. Located at the top of a hill, the overlook into the valley with the vineyard below offered a breathtaking view. The outdoor area for tasting was quaint and comfortable adding to the enjoyment of the wine flights for this tasting.

Shelton Vineyards

Shelton Vineyards was the last stop for day 1. This was the second visit to the vineyard and again, didn’t disappoint. This is a very large vineyard offering many of the familiar wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Malbec and many more. We sat outside in a large outdoor patio area to enjoy our wine flights while soaking in the beautiful gardens and the vineyards surrounding the winery.

Shadow Springs Vineyards

Shadow Springs Vineyards started day 2 of our wine tour. The tasting room sat on a gentle slope overlooking a large pond and ten acres of the surrounding vineyard. As with the other vineyards, we treated ourselves to a list of wine flights. The tasting room offer large indoor and outdoor sitting areas to enjoy an extensive list of both dry and sweet wines.

Laurel Gray Vineyards

The land where the Laurel Gray Vineyards is located has been in the Myers family for ten generations. This speaks volumes when visiting a vineyard and one appreciates the dedication to managing a farm, generation to generation where now the winery has existed for 20 years. Sitting on the back patio, the flights of wine consisted of excellent Cabs, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay, blends and more. Laurel Gray Vineyards was our last stop for day 2 and was a great cap for a perfect day.

Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?

RV AccessoriesCheck out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the top right side of this page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Too Many Vineyards to Count – Yadkin Valley NC

Currahee Military Museum – Taccoa GA

Currahee Military Museum – Taccoa GA

Currahee Military Museum – Taccoa GA

by Jerry Neal | Oct 24, 2020

I had the fortunate opportunity to tour the Currahee Military Museum located in historic Toccoa, Georgia. This has been a bucket list stop for some time. I’m a huge fan of the HBO miniseries Band of Brothers and have wanted to visit Taccoa to learn more about these true heroes who served in World War II, giving so much for the freedom we all experience today.

The Currahee Military Museum

Camp Toccoa was a remote training camp located at the base of Currahee Mountain to train the first paratroopers to serve in World War II. Throughout the course of the war, 17,000 soldiers would train at the camp. An interesting fact is the origination of the Currahee theme that was embraced by the soldiers. Currahee Mountain rises sharply at 800 feet with a 3 mile road leading to the peak. The soldiers would train by running to the top and back and Currahee became the motto of the paratroopers who trained here.

The museum contains a large amount of personal items donated by many of the families of the men who trained at Camp Toccoa. One of the most interesting displays is the horse barn where many of the paratroopers lived in England. The barn was disassembled and brought to the museum. Reassemble and stocked and is now the many historical items from those who served in World War II.

One of the most inspiring displays is the wall of metals and ribbons presented to those who trained and later fought in the war. It’s hard to place in words, the extraordinary accomplishments these true heroes made as they fought for the freedom for so many generations to follow.

Camp Taccoa and Currahee Mountain.

For this trip, time didn’t allow me to hike to the top of Currahee Mountain, but it’s definitely on the list when we return to the North Georgia Foothills. With the current Covid 19 restrictions, Camp Taccoa was open only on Saturdays and Sundays, and we were not able to visit the restore barracks and other items of interest.

A Visit to Remember

If you have the opportunity to visit the North Georgia area, the museum is one of those locations to experience, learn and honor so many who served our country.

Additional information:

Currahee Military Museum

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Currahee Military Museum – Taccoa GA

Leisure Acres Campground – Cleveland GA

Leisure Acres Campground – Cleveland GA

Leisure Acres Campground – Cleveland GA

by Jerry Neal | Oct 17, 2020

When Joan and I started RV life, our second destination was Leisure Acres Campground in Cleveland, GA located the foothills of North Georgia. This has become one of our favorite campgrounds and locations where we try to return every year. The town of Cleveland, GA has many of the amenities needed for both a short or long term stay. The location is perfect for those short drives to the quaint towns of Helen and Dahlonega, a growing list of excellent vineyards and wineries, and some of the best hiking trails offering beautiful views of mountains and waterfalls.

The Campground

Leisure Acres Campground is family owned by John and Peggy Morris. John and Peggy provide a family friendly environment adults and kids alike can enjoy. The campground has a wide range of camping spots providing pull-throughs, back-ins, pond views, and creeks. Many of the sites are large with all offering full hook-ups, fire rings and picnic tables. The friendly maintenance crews ensure everyone has clean and well maintained sites.

For Joan and I, we often stay multiple weeks during the early fall season. Our kids and grandkids bring their RV and all enjoy the catch and release pond, large playgrounds and walking paths. We also appreciate the modern laundry facilities, bath house and Wi-Fi. While working on the road, we depend on cellular hotspots for our Internet connections. AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon all have good coverage in the campground with the data speeds needed to support our business activities.

The North Georgia Foothills

There is so much to see and do in the North Georgia Foothills all within minutes of the campground. Helen, GA is the setting of a small Bavarian Village offering Oktoberfest activities in the fall months along with a wide range of shopping and restaurants. Dahlonega, GA is known for the discovery of gold with museums, mine tours, along with galleries, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants. Along with these two favorites, there are a wide range of festivals and activities in the nearby towns of Blairsville, Blue Ridge, Hiawassee and Ellijay.

The range of outdoor actives is almost endless with great hiking in the mountains with stunning views of beautiful waterfalls and valleys. With the number of state and federal parks, the trails range from easy strolls to challenging climbs all offering unique sites and scenery. For the more adventurous, a large number zip line courses have sprung up with layouts ranging from kid friendly and others to satisfy the adrenaline junkies.

Our Happy Place

The North Georgia Foothills and Leisure Acres Campground has become our happy place. Friendly, much to see and do, mild summers and cool falls, that place we look forward to escaping to every year.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Leisure Acres Campground – Cleveland GA

Accent Cellars – The Art of Winemaking

Accent Cellars – The Art of Winemaking

Accent Cellars – The Art of Winemaking

by Jerry Neal | Oct 10, 2020

If you’ve been following Joan and me for any period of time, you know how much we enjoying visiting vineyards and sampling the wines made within a local area. Before iLoveRVlife, I traveled often to the Napa and Sonoma wine regions and I fell in love with those who love the land, the grape and the passion, each have for making wine. On this cool, early fall afternoon, we had the fortunate opportunity of finding Accent Cellars, one of the newer winemakers located in Dahlonega, GA.

The Wines

I could wax poetically about the wines discovered at Accent Cellars, but I think one word will do – Delicious! Accent Cellars is not a vineyard, but a group of very talented winemakers who source their grapes from Georgia, California, Washington and other areas known for high quality fruit. Starting with the Pinot Noir, immediately we knew we had stumbled into something special. On to the Syrah, Merlot, Red Blend and I thought the group was going to break out into dance when the wine manager broke out the Rose’ Gold. For our tastes and what we look for in a quality wine, these were a home run and we had to know more.

The Art of Wine Making

We had the fortunate opportunity to be invited by the winemakers to get a better understanding of how they make these very interesting wines. We were at the peak of the grape harvest and wine making was in full swing. Tyler was very kind to take a few minutes out of his busy week to show us Accent Cellars’ wine making process. I make a statement in the video below that we were treated to a professor of wine making. I must admit, the winemakers at Accent Cellars are passionate about the wines made and the quality of the final product. Clearly the excellent wines bear the results of their efforts.

Visit the North Georgia Wine Region

Accent Cellars is but one of the many vineyards, wineries and cellars that make up the excellent North Georgia wine region. Some offer outstanding views. All share in the love of making wine.

Additional information:

Accent Cellars – Dahlonega, GA

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Accent Cellars – The Art of Winemaking

Mount Yonah Trail – Cleveland GA

Mount Yonah Trail – Cleveland GA

Mount Yonah Trail – Cleveland GA

by Jerry Neal | Oct 3, 2020

Mount Yonah Trail MapWhen our RV travel takes us into an area that has hiking trails I’ll try to clear the schedule to see as many as possible. On this cool September morning, our son Joel came up to the North Georgia foothills for a few days and hiking was at the top of our agenda. We decided to tackle the Yonah Mountain Trail, a beautiful climb to the most visible mountains in the North Georgia foothills.

The Hike Up Mount Yonah Trails

I use a 1 out of 10 scale to base the difficulty of a hike. It’s very subjective and based on my physical abilities. Not scientific, but at least it gives a baseline to consider. This isn’t the toughest hike I’ve made, but it had its moments. I give it an 8 out of 10 due to the steep inclines and rocky terrain. Hopefully this doesn’t deter someone; Mount Yonah Trails is a fun hike, a 2.3 mile trail that climb 1,500 feet in elevation with the reward of stunning views of the valley along White County and the Appalachian Mountains in the distance.

The Views From The Mount Yonah Summit

Reaching the summit of the hike, we were rewarded with amazing views. On the day of our hike, we had a crystal blue sky with unobstructed views as far as one could see. Standing on the edge of the rock face we could see farms, vineyards and the mountain range are what poets write of and painters dream about. Bottom line – it was some kinda pretty!!

Conclusion

If one can handle a strenuous hike and is up for a couple hour work out, then the Mount Yonah Trail is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon enjoying nature and the reward of amazing views.

Products discussed in this video

merrell hiking shoes

Merrell Hiking Shoes

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Mount Yonah Trail – Cleveland GA

North Georgia Foothills – Our Happy Place

North Georgia Foothills – Our Happy Place

North Georgia Foothills – Our Happy Place

by Jerry Neal | Sep 26, 2020

With Covid still having an impact on our RV travel, we decided to return to the North Georgia foothills; an area we’ve traveled to before and know much of the surroundings. Before we arrived, we called a number of locations in the area and felt very comfortable in returning. How exciting is to be in one our favorite campgrounds, hiking the creeks and mountains, and enjoying the all the fun North Georgia offers this time of year.

The Campground

We’re back at Leisure Acres Campground in Cleveland, GA., one of our favorite North Georgia camping spots. Big rig friendly, full hook-ups, 50 amp, and pull-throughs provide a great stay. More, it’s family friendly with large playgrounds and a catch a release pond that kids love. We especially like the campground in the North Georgia foothills providing easy access and a very short drive to Dahlonega, Helen, great hiking trails, fall festivals (unfortunately, not this year) and spectacular vineyards.

The Vineyards

We took a couple of days and visited a number of the North Georgia vineyards and wineries. How fun! Each day offer a cool, crisp early taste of Fall. The vineyards and wineries were welcoming with friendly staff, safe surroundings, great wines and spectacular views. Grape harvest was in full view adding to our entertainment.

The beautiful mountains providing stunning backgrounds and the vineyards were rich in early Fall colors. Some of the tasting rooms were closed, but each vineyard worked hard to create space outdoors that was safe and still provided great surrounding to experience the great wines offered.

The Experience

The North Georgia Foothills are an area that isn’t shared in the travel magazines. I don’t get it. The area is rich in small, quaint towns, friendly folk, beautiful rolling hills, amazing vineyards and a ton of fun. Add this area to your RV destination list. You’ll want to return again and again.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: North Georgia Foothills – Our Happy Place

Panther Creek Falls Trail – Turnerville, GA

Panther Creek Falls Trail – Turnerville, GA

Panther Creek Falls Trail – Turnerville, GA

by Jerry Neal | Sep 19, 2020

Panther Creek Trail Google MapHiking Panther Creek Falls made a perfect day on this crisp September fall morning. The trail to the falls is around a 3.5 mile hike (one-way) over moderate terrain. The tail is a a mix of hills and flat area. There are a few difficult areas along the trail with creek crossings, rock outcroppings and large exposed tree roots. Taking your time, watching your footing will make the hike safer.

The Trail

The trail starts with moderate elevations and is rather rocky and has a large amount of exposed roots. Not difficult, but you do have to watch your step. The lower half of the trails is much flatter running along side of the creek bed. Plan to be on the trail for several hours. Just make sure you have some energy bars and extra water for the stretch.

Throughout the hike you can hear the rushing water and there are great views along the creek before you reach the falls. We ran into several hikers who had packed in for the weekend staying in a number of the primitive camping spots along the trails.

Panther Creek Falls Trail MapThe trails to Panther Creek Falls offer much to see. Long wooded trails along the creek offer long views of the rolling creek along rock outcroppings. The trails were boarder by thick mountain laurel, stands of oak and hickory trees, ferns, moss and wild flowers. .

Around half way to the main falls, a smaller waterfall can be see with very large boulders, long spans of rolling rocks. This is a bit of a tease about what’s to be seen at the end of the trail to the main waterfalls.

The Falls

A popular spot, we found around 15 people at the falls. There’s a very large pool at the bottom of the falls and even though this was the middle of September with temperatures barely 70, there were several who handled the cold water swimming in the pool and hanging around the base of the falls.

A fun day, great hike and the views were spectacular.

Panther Creek Recreation Areahttps://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/conf/recarea/?recid=10514

Products discussed in this video

merrell hiking shoes

Merrell Hiking Shoes

 

 

 

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV. 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!

Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Panther Creek Falls Trail – Turnerville, GA

Panther Creek Falls Gallery – Turnerville, GA

Panther Creek Falls Gallery – Turnerville, GA

Panther Creek Falls Gallery – Turnerville, GA

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Panther Creek Falls Gallery – Turnerville, GA

Tugaloo State Park Campground Gallery

Tugaloo State Park Campground Gallery

Tugaloo State Park Campground Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Tugaloo State Park Campground Gallery

Tugaloo State Park Campground – Lavonia, GA

Tugaloo State Park Campground – Lavonia, GA

Tugaloo State Park Campground – Lavonia, GA

by Jerry Neal | Sep 12, 2020

Joan and I have started our late summer, early fall RV trip. We can’t express how excited we are to be back out again after months of sheltering in place. Our first stop is Tugaloo State Park Campground located on the edge of Lavonia, GA. The campground is about 10 minutes from exit 177 off I-85 just on the edge of the Georgia / South Carolina state line. We had our trip laid out, but at the last minute decided to add an extra week to the trip. We had difficulty finding a camping spot that was open for the week. Fortunately, Tugaloo State Park Campground had one left. Our site doesn’t have the greatest views, but we understood when we made a last minute reservation. There’s still plenty to do – nice hiking trails and a short walk to the lakes edge. No problem! We’re camping again.

The Campground

The campground is located on the edge of the 55,590 acres of Lake Hartwell. The sites are surrounded with a moderate amount of oak, cherry and walnut trees providing great shade from the hot summer sun. There are private boat docks for campers and spaces to park boat trailers. There are a number of well-marked trails and great fishing from the banks and public docks.

This is an older campground. Of the 105 campsites, there is a mixture of large and small sites. There are a series of loops and the roads are a little narrow, but the largest percentages of sites are pull-through. Most of the sites are listed as 30 amps. We were prepared to do the power management budget with limited ACs, watching when we ran hair dryers and microwaves, and then we found the site had two 30 amp connections. Using our dual 30 amp to 50 amp dog leg, we are able to run all things electric. The campsites are electric and water only, but a two lane dump station is provided leaving the campground area. There is a small campground store located near the entrance of the park.

The Area

The town of Lavonia is 10 minutes from the campground. There are a number of restaurants, grocery stores and shops around town. There’s also a hospital in the area.

We work from the road. Verizon and AT&T had good phone service, with AT&T providing the best data throughput from our hotspot.

Tugaloo State Park Campground is a very nice campground offering affordable camping and a great place to escape for a weekend of the max 14 day stay.

Products discussed in this video:

2 - 30 amp to 50 amp adapter 2 – 30 amp to 50 amp adapter

 

 

 

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Tugaloo State Park Campground – Lavonia, GA

Replacing An RV Refrigerator

Replacing An RV Refrigerator

Replacing An RV Refrigerator

by Jerry Neal | Sep 5, 2020

After 6 years of heavy RV travel, it was time to replace our RV refrigerator. Our current unit was getting a little beat up inside from all the bumpy roads, plus the compressor was making a strange noise when starting up. We took the latter as a sign the refrigerator was going to cause problems in the future and we didn’t want to be out on a multiple month, extended trip and have the refrigerator fail.

TYPES OF RV REFRIGERATORS

When we purchased our 5th wheel, we preferred having a residential style refrigerator versus the more traditional RV refrigerator, also known as an absorption refrigerator, that uses propane to create a flame that heats a combination of ammonia, hydrogen gas, and water for the cooling process. We found the residential refrigerator to be much colder, no maintenance and have larger capacities using the wall space available.

There are pros and cons to each type of RV refrigerator. For the traditional absorption refrigerator, having the propane option is great for boondocking. The battery system is only used for thermostat and pilot lighting. The downside, the smaller capacities, heat generated, maintenance and occasional need to defrost. A residential refrigerator is colder, most are self-defrosting, have more space and require little if any maintenance. The challenge is finding one that will fit through the RV door and the space inside along with the power consumption when traveling. A multiple batteries are required along with an inverter with capacity to handle the refrigerators 120V AC compressor.

WHY REPLACE THE RV REFRIGERATOR

Why did our refrigerator fail after 6 years? Well, it hadn’t….yet. Sure, it was making a weird noise, but the refrigerator could have continued to work for many years. As “long timer” RV travelers, we often spend two or three months at a stretch in our 5th wheel and can travel up to eight months out of a year. We treat the 5th wheel as our second home and have made various upgrades for comfort and overall usability. Joan and I felt it was time for an upgrade and wanted some of the new features available with a new refrigerator.

REPLACING THE RV REFRIGERATOR

Finding a residential refrigerator that would fit in our 5th wheel was going to be our greatest challenge. We had a 29 inch front door on the 5th wheel to remove the old refrigerator and bring in a new unit. We also had exactly 28 inches to fit a new refrigerator in the existing space. Height was less of an issue requiring minimal carpentry with a small panel to fill in the remaining refrigerator space.

Second challenge was finding a unit that had a low power budget to operate. We wanted something that was less than an amp to run and wouldn’t require a battery or inverter upgrade. Our current 1,000 watt inverter supports a 2,000 watt peak and wanted a refrigerator that would work within these parameters.

After several months of searching, we found a refrigerator at Home Depot that met all of our requirements. Width was a perfect fit, power budget was much better than our existing unit, and the taller height was going to require the smallest amount of carpentry. Our new LG model LBNC15231V was going to be a great upgrade in features. Plus, the LG is an inverter compressor and for the size of this unit, requires very little power.

Removing the existing RV refrigerator and replacing with the new LG took a little planning, some finesse as well as muscle. The actual weight of the refrigerator was not the biggest issue as much as overall bulk and the tight space. We quickly discovered only two people could work in the space, plus we had to make a substantial effort to protect the unit from any damage or scratches fitting the new LG refrigerator though the doorway and around the cabinets. We took the extra effort of creating a ramp to the doorway which dealt with the largest difficulty of moving old and installing the new RV refrigerator.

RESULTS

We couldn’t be happier with the results of the new RV refrigerator. We have more space, more features and the power budget is much lower than the previous model.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Replacing An RV Refrigerator

6 Tips For Working From Your RV

6 Tips For Working From Your RV

6 Tips For Working From Your RV

by Jerry Neal | Aug 29, 2020

Many ask: “How do you afford RV travel?” Simple, I work on the road. We’re fortunate that our business is very portable. Joan and I aren’t unique, there are many who enjoy RV travel for extended periods of time or claim a nomad lifestyle who either has a business or works for a company where tasks are suited for a remote environment. I was a corporate traveler for many years, had a home office since 2011 and joined the RV ranks in 2014 and as a result, developed a work environment and processes that have made working from an RV simple and very effective. Whether you work and travel for extended periods of time or a full time digital nomad, here are 6 tips for working from your RV.

1. Office Space

Having space for work that is comfortable and supports your ongoing needs to conduct business is very important. In an RV there is usually a dining area, booth and in some of the newer 5th wheels, an office space to work from. Our Gateway had a dining table. We removed the dining chairs, turned the table sideways, added a couple large monitors along with a very comfortable office chair.

For office supplies, files, cables, thumbs drives, laptop storage, and all those miscellaneous things needed to handle the administrative side of the business, I reverted back to a large briefcase. Maybe a little old school, but after trying various file cabinets, this was compact, stores the essentials and makes it’s very easy to find those little offices things when needed.

2. Technology and Tools

Each remote work task is a little different, but there are several items that are critical for conducting business. First of all, don’t go cheap. Whatever will be used on recurring tasks, make sure it has the speed and reliability to meet your needs without failure or interruption. A video editor’s requirements are much different than the blogger and different from the person performing remote medical billing. What’s the same for a PC, laptop and any other technology; it must work and meet the requirements of the remote task at hand. We also cover a few other items in the video below.

3. Internet

Remote Internet is one of our largest business expenses. It’s almost impossible to run a business using campground Internet. Internet intensive tasks are not well suite from a coffee shop or the parking lot of one of the large burger chains. We use unlimited AT&T and Verizon hotspots. Having two cellular carriers gives us the best opportunity to have quality Internet where one may work in the campground this week, but cell service in the next campground may be stronger for the other carrier. For great information about the ever changing cellular data plans and services, visit the great work supplied by Chris and Cherie at www.rvmobileinternet.com.

4. Process and Scheduling

Equally important is time management. Scheduling work time and play time is what makes the RV lifestyle so enjoyable. We share with many that we work a day then play a day. Having a remote job or operating a remote business, scheduling time is important for meeting your client or company needs as a well as having time to see the site surrounding this RV stop.

There are great project management tools to help with your day-to-day processes and time management. We have been using Google Calendar to layout weeks and months of work, travel and important events. With the administrative requirements of running a business, QuickBooks is essential to our bookkeeping and billing needs as well as that needed end of the year tool to close the books and head to the accountant for tax time.

5. K.I.S.S.

K.I.S.S. isn’t my invention, but a carryover from my telecom engineering and operations day. Keep It Simple Stupid (I’m pointing my finger at myself!) is the effort of not making the work environment difficult. This is the effort of not adding processes, tools, technology, and software that isn’t critical to your daily deliverables. Sure the latest and greatest tech is cool to work with….maybe, but if it slows down or worse, breaks the work environment that’s need throughout the week, it’s best to test over time and become efficient in its operation before make a change.

6. Take Care of Yourself

Being outside of an office environment can be a curse and a blessing. Not having structure can cause one too work to many hours, never take breaks and the next thing you know is you’re burnt out for over work and not enjoying all the wonderful sites and experiences that RV life has to offer. Don’t get in the trap of working all hours of the day and night. Take those needed breaks. Schedule time well and set proper expectations to meet your client or company’s work deliverables.

The Bottom Line

Take breaks. Schedule time wisely. Pick the right technology to get the job done. Find the best Internet you can afford. Don’t forget to take quality time to experience the area where your RV is parked. And most of all enjoy RV life.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: 6 Tips For Working From Your RV

RV Power Explained

RV Power Explained

RV Power Explained

by Jerry Neal | Aug 15, 2020

If you follow any of the RV groups on Facebook or participate in any of the RV forums, usually you’ll see questions about RV power. We also receive questions from our ilovervlife.com website or comments on our YouTube channel about RV power, the various RV power adapters, and why the main breaker constantly trips when connected to a 30 amp campground pedestal. The good news is that regardless of the type of power your RV is connected to, knowing the power required by your appliance and using a little simple math, you can prevent that recurring breaker trip and enjoy your time at the campground.

Common Types of RV Power

There are four types of RV power:

  • 50 Amp
  • 30 Amp
  • 20 Amp
  • 15 Amp

For most campgrounds, 50 and 30 amp RV power connections are the most common. The 20 and 15 amp connections are used when we park the RV at home to keep the batteries charged or when we “driveway surf” at family or a friend’s house for the holidays. Here’s a short explanation of each type of RV power connection.

50 Amps

50 Amp RV PowerThe 50 amp RV power connection is one of the most misunderstood. As shown in the graphic on the right, the plug supports two 50 amp, 120 volt circuits often referred to as “legs”. The two legs can support up to 6,000 watts of power each. The legs are separated into two RV circuits to distribute the power load. Most common wiring configurations for RVs equipped with two air conditioners has one air conditioner on the “L1” leg and the second air conditioner will be on the “L2” leg. The remaining 120 volt outlets will be distributed on the two legs. With this amount of power and using typical household appliances, tripping the RV power pedestal breaker is rare.

30 Amps

30 Amp RV ServiceWe find 30 amp RV power connections mostly in state and federal parks and some of the older privately owned campgrounds. Even in campgrounds that report to have 50 amp connections, there may be a number of sites with 30 amp connections. We prefer to stay in campsites that are 50 amp, but if only 30 amps are available we don’t let that stop us from going to a location and seeing the sites.

The 30 amp RV connection supports one power wire referred to as the “hot” lead for a total of 3,600 watts. For RVs that are designed for 30 amps of power, there is only one air conditioner and a limited amount of 120 volt receptacles. For an RV that has a 50 amp connection, a 30 amp to 50 amp adapter, referred to as a dog bone, is required. When this adapter is used, the RV will share the single 30 amp connection.

20 and 15 Amps

20 amp rv powerBoth the 20 and 15 amp RV power connection looks the same, a standard household 120 volt plug. Wired similar to the 30 amp connection, the 20 amp connection supports 2,400 watts and a 15 amp connection supports 1,800 watts. These can be found in campgrounds, but most often are used at home or when stopping at friend or relative’s home for the holidays. The only way to determine if the receptacle amp capacity is to verify the circuit breaker assigned. There are 20 to 50 amp and 20 to 30 amp adapters available providing a standard plug to connect the RV to an extension cord. One note, if you plan to use this type of connection, use a good quality 10 gauge extension cord.

RV Power Management

RV Power Explained Total WattsThe question comes up: “How do you determine which appliances can be operated on RV power?” Great question. With a 50 amp connection the answer is simple – everything in the RV. There are limits to what can be plugged into a single receptacle at one time and not trip the inside breaker, but this is no different than what would be experienced at home.  Here is a sheet  or click the chart on the right that shows the total capacity supplied by each type of RV power connection.

RV Power Wattage SheetBut, this changes substantially with a 30 amp or smaller RV power connection. To maximize the 3,600 watts of power, we need to determine how much power is consumed by an appliance, adding all that will be used at one time and the total watts not exceeding the 3,600 watts supplied. We can use the Ohms Law formula to calculate appliance wattage, but I have created a RV power cheat sheet with many of the most common appliances found in an RV with the estimated watts and amps for each. I also go into additional detail how to calculate appliance power and RV power management in the video below.

RV Power Adapters

For an RV with a 50 amp service, there are three adapters often used:

  • 30 to 50 amp
  • Dual 30 amp to 50 amp
  • 20/15 amp to 50 amp

For an RV with a 30 amp service, there is one adapter often used:

  • 20/15 amp to 30 amp

The tip to remember when using an adapter, regardless of the maximum amps supported by the RV, you will only have the capacity supplied by the RV power connection at the pedestal. For our 50 amp RV, we have all three adapters and use them throughout the year. If you don’t have these adapters, I’ve provided links below where they can be purchased.

Closing Remarks

In a perfect world, Joan and I would always stay in a campground with a long pull through spot, trees to block the hot sun, an amazing view of the mountains or beach, and a 50 amp RV power connection. But as we all know, there’s always a little give and take when it comes to that perfect camping spot for the week and it may not have the RV power connection we prefer. That’s ok; we’ll manage and have a great time enjoying RV life.

Products Discussed:

30 to 50 amp rv adapter30 Amp to 50 Amp Adapter
 
 
 
 
 
 
15 to 30 amp rv power adapter15 Amp to 50 Amp Adapter
 
 
 
 
 
 
15 to 30 amp rv power adapter15 Amp to 30 Amp Adapter
 
 
 
 
 
 
Twin 30 to 50 amp rv power adapterTwin RV 30 Amp Plug to 50 Amp Adapter
 
 
 
 
 

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: RV Power Explained

Making a Standing Desk

Making a Standing Desk

Making a Standing Desk

by Jerry Neal | Aug 8, 2020

This was a fun project. A day’s effort with big returns. We decided to help a teacher. Julie, our daughter teaches third grade and with the Covid-19 challenges she will be teaching students in a classroom as well as those online. This created a number of challenges with one of main issues surrounding the presentation of materials in the physical classroom and those who will be online at the same time.

With the need to stand for long periods of time, having access to a laptop, web camera and document camera, she was concerned with the teaching process as well as the fatigue of continually bending over a desk for long periods of time. Bending over and trying to look at a web camera created other challenges with the potential of a poor teacher presentation for the online students. The fix – building a custom standing desk.

Designing the Standing Desk

Making a Standing DeskAs mention, this was a day’s work. We wanted something that specifically fit Julie’s height and would be wide enough to comfortably support all of the technology and teaching materials needed for the day. See would need a method to power all the devices and manage the multitude of cables. She also needed a shelf to hold books, papers and other teaching materials that would be easy to access.

Creating a custom standing desk gave us the opportunity to ensure the desk was properly size to meet Julie’s height. Applying a little human factors engineering, we determined the best desk height would be 38” tall and 48” wide.

Building the Standing Desk

Making A Standing DeskYou may ask, why build a desk and not purchase one? This answer is simple – cost. Looking online, most the standing desks cost $500 to $1,000 and more for those with mechanical height adjustments. We were on a budget and confident we could build a high quality standing desk for less the $100 and in fact, built this one for less than $75 including wood, nails, screws and a little paint.

Making a standing desk cut sheetThe most expensive item for the standing desk was the plywood. We used cabinet grade ¾” birch plywood at a cost of $55. Not wanting to waste or miss cut this expensive 4’ X 8’ sheet of plywood, we created a diagram to maximize our cuts. I’ve provide a copy of my cut sheet and you can download by clicking on the image in the right.

We also wanted to reduce the rough edges of the plywood for the top and shelf and added a trim band made from a piece of clear popular. An 8’ X 4” board cut into 1” X 1 ½” strips provided a very nice finished edge. See the application in the video below.

Lastly, we wanted the desk to be as substantial as possible and not wiggle or move while accessing the devices on top of the desk. We assembled the sides, top, and shelf using pocket screws. This was accomplished with a great pocket screw jig created by Kreg. There are several systems offered with a wide range of features and accessories. We own the Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 320 and is perfect for plywood based projects.

Finishing off the desk with a 10 plug power strip and a couple of coats of white latex gloss paint, and we were ready to deliver.

Results

Julie was thrilled with the standing desk. In the video below, you’ll see her reaction and how she plans to use the desk.

A great project for your RV work space, home office or better yet, a teacher in your area who may need an improved work space, especially with the all of the current challenges they’ll face each day with the added demands for distance learning.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Making a Standing Desk

Haloview RD10 RV Rearview and Dash Cam

Haloview RD10 RV Rearview and Dash Cam

Haloview RD10 RV Rearview and Dash Cam

by Jerry Neal | Jul 25, 2020

We have another great product to review from Haloview. In the video below, we install the new Haloview RD10 RV Rearview and Dash Cam. This is a very interesting video system partly based on Haloview’s enhanced range system that allows the rear camera to connect to the monitor wirelessly via an extender cable and amplifier. Using this configuration, a wireless camera can be located up to 80 feet from the video monitor and operate without loss of signal. We have been using a similar setup with the Haloview 7-inch 720P Wireless Range Dominator 4-Camera RD7 System. You can learn more about the installation of this installation here. We have traveled thousands of miles since we installed and not had any issues.

Installing the Rear Camera

Haloview RD10 RV Rearview and Dash CamThere is ample cable support to run from the rear camera to the forward facing repeater. One’s imagination is the only limiting factor on how to run the cable and where to place the repeater. Haloview provides a 12V DC power inserter that can be used at the rear camera or at the repeater. For RV’s that have been prewired for the Furrion Camera, a mounting bracket is provided to mount the rear camera. The installation guide provides several roof style cable run options. We preferred more of a custom installation running the cable under the RV belly pan. You can learn more about our installation in the video below.

Haloview Wireless Rearview Observation Mirror

Haloview RD10 RV Rearview and Dash CamThe heart of this system is the Haloview Wireless Rearview Observation Mirror. The kit comes with all cables and mounting hardware for each component. In less than 10 minutes, I mounted the Observation Mirror, synced to the rear camera and was able to display both the forward dash cam and the rear camera. One nice feature about the Observation Mirror is the ability to attach to the existing vehicle rearview mirror. This frees up the dash from any clutter that could impact visibility though the windshield. One other favorite feature is the screen presentation. With the simple swipe of a finger or tap of the screen, I could use as a mirror only, split screen with dash camera and rear camera view or full screen with dash or rear camera.

Final Thoughts

This is a well-made and excellent performing system that is easy to install, feature rich and well-priced for the functions offered.

Products Discussed In This Video:

Haloview RD10 RV Rearview and Dash Cam all wireless Haloview Wireless Rearview Observation Mirror Dashcam RD10 This system is best suited for rear camera installations under 80 feet.

 

 

Haloview Wireless Rearview Observation Mirror Dashcam MC10 Haloview Wireless Rearview Observation Mirror Dashcam MC10 This system is best suited for rear camera installations under 33 feet.

 

 

Haloview 7 inch 720P Wireless Range Dominator 4-Camera System RD7 Ultimate Haloview 7 inch 720P Wireless Range Dominator 4-Camera System RD7 Ultimate This system is best suited for rear camera installations under 80 feet.

 

 

Haloview MC7109 7 Inch 720P HD Digital Wireless Rear View Camera SystemHaloview MC7109 7 Inch 720P HD Digital Wireless Rear View Camera System This system is best suited for rear camera installations under 33 feet.

 

 

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Haloview RD10 RV Rearview and Dash Cam

St Augustine, FL 2020

St Augustine, FL 2020

St Augustine, FL 2020

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: St Augustine, FL 2020

OBDLink MX+ Monitoring Your RV Tow Vehicle

OBDLink MX+ Monitoring Your RV Tow Vehicle

OBDLink MX+ Monitoring Your RV Tow Vehicle

by Jerry Neal | Jul 18, 2020

With the thousands of miles Joan and I cover each year with our RV, we’ve always been concerned with the performance and monitoring of our F-350 engine and transmission when we tow our 5th wheel. Our largest concern centers around the amount of heat generate during a tow. We wanted a product such as the OBDLink MX+ to monitor our engine and transmission.

 

We were most interested in three main areas:
♦ Engine coolant temperature
♦ Engine oil temperature
♦ Transmission temperature

This became more of a concern recently when our daughter and her family were towing their camper in the mountains of North Carolina. Just a few miles from the campground as they traveled back home, the engine temperatures pegged, warning lights abound, and they were back at the campground while waiting a couple of days to have the truck electric fan replaced. We too had issues last year with DEF heaters shorting and a blown turbo hose. Many times, a detailed presentation with meters showings growing changes in heat or the ability to diagnose an engine code quickly can mean the difference in a low cost repair and preventing substantial damage to the towing vehicle.

 

 

Not all OBD readers have the

ability to read large diesel engines.

Why Choose the OBDLink MX+

With this in mind, we started our research for a Bluetooth capable OBD reader that would provide the ability to display a graphic representation of various engine and transmission parameters along with the ability to quickly diagnose engine warning light codes. Adding to the challenge in finding an OBD reader, our towing vehicle is a Ford F-350 with a 6.7 turbo diesel. Not all readers have the ability to read these large diesel engines. From our research, we felt confident the OBDLink MX+ would meet our needs.

Installing the OBDLink MX+

This installation of the OBDLink M+ could not have been easier. With the well written instructions in hand, I plugged the unit into the truck’s OBD port, downloaded the OBDLink app to our smart phone from the app store and followed the online instructions. A few minutes to register the device, another few minutes to upgrade the unit firmware and finally another few minutes to download the enhanced add-ons for the F-350 and the unit sprang to life. Pressing the display button on the app, we were provided with a standard application display with 6 meters. But we didn’t stop there.

 

Easily create your own

custom display.

Building my custom OBDLink MX+ display

The OBDLink MX+ app is feature rich with the ability to easily create your own custom display. Simple search of the OBD parameter to monitor, pick the desired display and a wide range of options to configure size, colors, ranges and more present the meters preferred on the smart IOS or Android phone or tablet.

Results

The presentation and performance was much better than expected. Clear presentation of the meters we preferred along with the added benefit to quickly diagnose engine warnings if needed. A low cost application to ensure our engine and transmission are operating properly when towing our heavy 5th wheel.

Products Discussed In This Video:

ODBLink MX+
 

OBDLink MX+
 
 
 
 
 

cellphone windshield car mount
 

Cell Phone Windshield Car Mount
 
 
 
 
 

car vent cell phone holder
 

Car Vent Cell Phone Holder
 
 
 
 
 

cell phone car cup holder
 

Cell Phone Car Cup Holder
 
 

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: OBDLink MX+ Monitoring Your RV Tow Vehicle

The J’s Takeover St Augustine Beach – Part 3

The J’s Takeover St Augustine Beach – Part 3

The J’s Takeover St Augustine Beach – Part 3

by Jerry Neal | Jul 4, 2020

This was our last week at St. Augustine Beach and Ocean Grove RV Resort, and this was one special. All the kids came this week and the J’s took over the beach. That’s right the J’s – Along with me (Jerry) and Joan, we had Joel, Julie, Josh, Jake, Jaymi Kate and Jilli Beth all at the campground.

The Beach

Summer vacation when Joel and Julie were little ones hovered around life at the beach. And as our family grew, we continue the tradition. At least 6 out of the 7 days, we set up the tents, chairs, coolers, games and spend the day at the beach. No day is typical, but one can be assured the competitiveness of the group comes alive playing all of the beach games and of course, a couple good books are consumed.

There’s also these morning power walks arranged by Joel, our oldest. This isn’t a casual stroll, but a good pounding the sand of one hour plus. It’s worth it. Early mornings, good exercise, pretty sunrise and just enjoying our time together.

The Restaurants

The whole group is a bunch of foodies, and on vacation we’re always in search of good beach food. This year was a little more challenging with the remnants of the Corona Virus, but everyone was working hard to recover staff, keep everyone safe and make sure we had a great experience. We found many of our favorites and there was no shortage of great seafood during the week.

Joan and I cherish these times. Great time with the older kids catching up and of course, spoiling the grandkids. Just another reason we love RV life!

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: The J’s Takeover St Augustine Beach – Part 3

More Fun at St Augustine Beach FL – Part 2

More Fun at St Augustine Beach FL – Part 2

More Fun at St Augustine Beach FL – Part 2

by Jerry Neal | Jun 27, 2020

The fun continues at St. Augustine Beach, FL. We’re still making adjustments due to covid, but there are plenty of things to see and do. The beach is great and we’re seeing a large number of vacationers coming out for the day. There’s no shortage of tents, coolers, and all things to make a beach day fun.

Morning Beach Bike Rides

More Fun at St Augustine Beach FLOne of my favorite activities is a morning beach bike ride. One of the benefits of St. Augustine Beach is the deep beach at low tide. This provides a great path to ride near the water, enjoy the sun rise, hear the sound of the waves and just go for miles. The beach doesn’t open for cars until 8am. Going early, you’ll meet walkers, joggers and other bicyclists along the way. Add a light breeze as we experienced in the video below make this morning a perfect ride.

Beach Restaurants

Golden Lion Restaurant Flagler Beach FLBusiness closures resulting from covid, has had an impact on restaurant availability and service levels. Arriving the first of June, we found some of our favorites were still closed. At the time of this blog, we are in the middle of June and slowly seeing some of our favorite restaurants open again. With many having replaced large numbers of serving staff, we’ve gone the extra step to thank those working hard and adding an extra dose of patience. In the video below, we stopped at a restaurant we always frequent on Saturdays afternoons, The Golden Lion in Flagler Beach, FL. It didn’t disappoint meeting our expectations of past visits – live music, raw oysters (lots of them on this visit), views next to the beach and a great staff. Just a fun place.

If a 2020 RV beach stay is in your future, we suggest calling ahead to your campground. Find out what the area requires for your visit and what may be open that you like to visit. We made the call before we booked our reservation at Ocean Grove RV Resort. They were very helpful giving us updates for the area and worked hard to provide a safe environment during our visit. Stay safe everyone.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: More Fun at St Augustine Beach FL – Part 2

Chillin in St Augustine Beach FL – Part 1

Chillin in St Augustine Beach FL – Part 1

Chillin in St Augustine Beach FL – Part 1

by Jerry Neal | Jun 20, 2020

We’re back in St. Augustine, FL for 2020. With hope RV life will start to return to normal, we are back at Ocean Grove RV Resort for the month of June. The good news, the places we like to visit are open including most our favorite beach restaurants. The downtown area is a little different. Many of the museums and national monuments still remain closed. Also, a number of the larger restaurants are closed. But the many of the shops, trolley tours, and locally owned eateries are open and business is brisk. Taking the necessary covid precautions, we’re still having a great time doing the beach things we enjoy.

The Beach

The beach is in great shape. Easy for most two wheel drive vehicles to navigate and park for the day. There are several sections of the beach that are 4-wheel drive only. One of the things we like about this area is the deep beach frontage that allows the easy set-up of a tent or umbrella. Bike rides are another favorite with long stretches of beach with great views.

Ocean Grove RV Resort

Ocean Grove RV Resort is our go to beach campground. For a beach campground, the spaces are large with ample distance between RVs. Most sites have been upgraded with pavers will ample RV and truck parking and comfortable space for outdoor entertainment. Sites are well equipped with grills, 50 amp power, water, sewer and cable. Plus, a great pool area and the Ebb Tide pool restaurant has a great menu and fun place for a beverage.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Chillin in St Augustine Beach FL – Part 1

RV Seasonal Maintenance – Wax, Caulk and More

RV Seasonal Maintenance – Wax, Caulk and More

RV Seasonal Maintenance – Wax, Caulk and More

by Jerry Neal | Jun 13, 2020

There are several forms of maintenance that should be considered for your RV. There are tasks that should be considered yearly as well as RV seasonal maintenance. I place tasks in RV seasonal maintenance that should occur in 2 to 3 year increments. This time period isn’t exact and depends on the environment and how an RV is stored. For those that live in harsh climates with no storage option, these tasks may need to be performed sooner, in milder climates and covered storage option, a more extended timeframe.

Waxing an RV

We haven’t waxed our RV in several years. The gel coat had lost its luster. It needed a good coat of wax to not only improve the looks of the 5th wheel, but to protect the finish from cracking and deterioration. It can help protect decals, but in our case, we have one decal that is showing signs of heavy cracking.

There are a wide variety of waxes that can be used on an RV with good results. We prefer using Meguiar’s Premium Marine Wax. This wax is designed to withstand the harsh environments experienced by water crafts and holds up well for RV use as well. The formula offers long-lasting polymer protection and incredible deep gloss to fiberglass and gel coat surfaces. It removes light oxidation, fine scratches and swirls, and works well with by hand or variable speed polisher.

We cover the steps of applying wax in the video below.

Caulking an RV

Caulking found on the edges of the roof, corners, and seams of an RV offers an important form of protection against rain. Exposed to the sun and weather, caulking can crack and fall off allowing water to enter the RV. This can cause rot and delamination. An inspection yearly and caulking takes little time, is not expensive and can save many thousands of dollars in repairs.

Not all caulks are the same and are designed for various purposes. Do not use caulks designed for home applications such as silicone or latex. We prefer using Dicor Lap Sealant. This is an industry standard and can be purchased in colors to match your existing caulk. A little goes a long way and a very thin bead is usually all that is required.

Inspecting Marker and Break Lights

We have a habit of checking our lights after we hook up the 5th wheel to the truck to ensure the markers, break and turn signal lights are operational. But for our RV seasonal maintenance, we check the covers looking for cracks and damage. These are not expensive and damage units should be replaced. This year, we found a break light that had a large crack and would have fallen off with a small bump along the road. Easy Amazon search found an exact replacement.

RV Tire Inspection

We are religious when it comes to inspecting and maintaining the tires on our RV. We always perform a quick RV tire inspection before leaving a destination checking for damage and tire pressure. A blow out is dangerous and can cause substantial damage to the RV. I know, we’ve had two blown outs and hope we never have another.

As part of our RV seasonal maintenance, we perform a very close inspection of our tires. We look for belt separation, cracking in the side walls and along the tire bead and most of all, inspect the tread for damage. This go around, we discovered a tire that had a pyramid rock where the point had entered the tread, cut into the tire and damaged the steel belts. It would have been only a matter of time before the rock continued to cut into the tire, belt separation and a tire exploding in the middle of a trip.

We share additional details for the replacement in the video below.

In addition to this seasonal maintenance, we have listed a number of tasks below that should be performed yearly. They’re simple, low cost, and very important in maintaining your RV.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: RV Seasonal Maintenance – Wax, Caulk and More

Dobbins Creek Vineyards – Elkin, NC Gallery

Dobbins Creek Vineyards – Elkin, NC Gallery

Dobbins Creek Vineyards – Elkin, NC Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Dobbins Creek Vineyards – Elkin, NC Gallery

Laurel Gray Vineyards – Elkin, NC Gallery

Laurel Gray Vineyards – Elkin, NC Gallery

Laurel Gray Vineyards – Elkin, NC Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Laurel Gray Vineyards – Elkin, NC Gallery

Grassy Creek Trails and The Vineyard – Elkin, NC Gallery

Grassy Creek Trails and The Vineyard – Elkin, NC Gallery

Grassy Creek Trails and The Vineyard – Elkin, NC Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Grassy Creek Trails and The Vineyard – Elkin, NC Gallery

Shadow Springs Vineyard – Elkin, NC Gallery

Shadow Springs Vineyard – Elkin, NC Gallery

Shadow Springs Vineyard – Elkin, NC Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Shadow Springs Vineyard – Elkin, NC Gallery

Replacing LCI Motorized RV Awning

Replacing LCI Motorized RV Awning

Replacing LCI Motorized RV Awning

by Jerry Neal | Jun 6, 2020

Replacing LCI Motorized RV Awning

After 6 years, our RV awning had seen better days. From beating it up at the beach along with a constant battle with at the tree limbs at rural campgrounds, the RV awning stitching busted pulling a 10 foot section away from the side of the 5th wheel. We could have taken down, had it stitched and replace, but the fabric was getting fatigued and we didn’t think much life was remaining. We checked with several RV repair facilities and received quotes from $1,000 to $1,600 for a new awning and the labor to install. This seemed quite steep and we felt the install would not be that difficult and found a good quality awning for $145.

The Awning Material

After a search through many of the RV product resellers, we settled on a SunWave awning purchased through Amazon. We found popular sizes to fit most motorized and manual awnings and the ratings were very good. The material has a very slick finish with hopes this will minimize staining and mildew. The materials consist of a 15oz vinyl with a 16oz vinyl weather shield. If you have a manual awning, it also comes will a new pull strap. After reading the specs and ratings, we thought we’d give the SunWave RV awning a try.

RV Awning Replacement Preparation

Before you start the project, make sure you have two quality ladders capable of reaching the top of the camper. There will be steps in the RV awning removal and installation where each person will be on a ladder at each end of the awning roller. A wobbly ladder is unsafe and can cause injury and/or damage to the awning if dropped.

Our awing is a motorized LCI until. There’s little preparation with a motorized until. There’s no capture spring to content with which make removal much simpler.

CAUTION! If you have a manual awning, locate the instructions for your model and find out how to secure the roller before cutting the awning fabric away from the side of the camper. Failure to do so can cause serious injury.

For the LCI RV awning, I first extended the awning approximately 12 inches from the side of the camper. Next I secured the arm mechanisms with tie wraps to hold in place once the fabric was cut. This is an important step to prevent the awning from failing forward.

Removing the Old RV Awning

With the RV awning arm mechanisms secured, I cut the RV awning from the side of the camper using a sharp razor knife. Next, I removed the set screw holding the poly cord and pulled the poly cord and remaining fabric from the track.

Next step was to remove the roller from the arm mechanisms. This is a two person job. Good communications is required throughout the removal and installation where each share where they are in completing their task. With a ladder and person on each side, we removed the bolts holding the roller to the arm mechanisms. Unplugging the RV awning motor wire, we carefully stepped down and placed the awning roller on the ground. Here we cut the remainder of the old awning fabric from the roller and pulled out the polly cord from the retaining track.

Replacing the RV Awning

The steps to replace the RV Awning are almost the opposite of the removal. We used the old awning as our work space to prevent scuffing or damage to the new awning. We carefully unfolded, located front and back and slid the new RV awning with the attached polly cord into the awning roller. We then secured the polly cord with screws to the roller.

Next is attaching the back of the awning to the camper. This requires sliding the RV awning polly cord into the mounted track. This is a 3 to 4 person job with one person at the top of the RV feeding the awning polly cord at one end and a second person at the other end pulling the fabric. This task should be performed in short 6 to 12 inch pulls with caution to prevent snags and tears in the fabric. You’ll also need 1 to 2 people on the ground holding the awning roller and following the progress of the sliding fabric.
Once the fabric is installed and aligned, we rolled the remaining fabric on the roller, connected the power cable to the motor, replaced the two blots holding the roller to the arm mechanisms and used a set screw to hold the polly code the RV awning track.

Installation Time and Difficulty

It took us 2 hours to remove and install the new RV awning. Difficulty is moderate requiring basic hand tools. The RV awning roller and fabric is not very heavy, but can be cumbersome at 10 foot plus working heights. See the video below for the step by step efforts replacing an RV awning.

Additional information:

SunWave RV Awning Fabric

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Replacing LCI Motorized RV Awning

Ocean Lakes Family Campground Gallery

Ocean Lakes Family Campground Gallery

Ocean Lakes Family Campground Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Ocean Lakes Family Campground Gallery

Ocean Lakes Family Campground – Myrtle Beach SC

Ocean Lakes Family Campground – Myrtle Beach SC

Ocean Lakes Family Campground – Myrtle Beach SC

by Jerry Neal | May 30, 2020

One of the things that Joan and I appreciate about the RV lifestyle is the wide variety of places to camp and sites to see. From small to large, we’ve have yet to stay in two places that were alike. On this stop, we wanted to experience one of the larger “family style” campgrounds and choose Ocean Lakes Family Campground in Myrtle Beach, SC. This is by far, the largest campground that we’ve stayed in with 859 camping spots, amenities galore and a destination that you and the family could stay for a long period of time and never leave. We had a great stay and look forward to returning with the rest of our camping family for the complete Ocean Lakes Family Campground experience.

The camping spots were big rig friendly with most offering pull-though paved parking, 50 amps, water, sewer and cable TV. There are those beach campgrounds where we have been crammed camper to camper with little space between. That is not the case at Ocean Lakes. We had ample space to not only have our awning and seating, but space to park the truck as well. We use cell data for Internet, both AT&T and Verizon provided reasonable bandwidth along with campground provided Internet. And if that wasn’t enough, the campground also provides the Starfish Radio station that played much of our favorite beach music.

About Ocean Lakes Family Campground

This family oriented campground started with the Jackson family almost 50 years ago. With a humble beginning of 30 campsites, Ocean Lakes has grown to 859 campsites on 310 acres offering an enjoyable family experience to thousands of guests each year. Still owned and operated by the Jackson family, we were impressed with the high level of customer service and the facilities overall. But, this is not your normal campground. There’s so much more to experience.

The Amenities

Ocean Lakes CampsitesOf course there’s the beautify Myrtle Beach. Depending on the location in the campground, the beach is a short walk through the dunes. This is a typical of southern east coast beach with firm sand, large open area to the water’s edge and great places to play and sun for the day.

The southeastern corner of the campground has large playgrounds with basketball courts, shuffleboard, kid’s playgrounds and more. Plenty of space to ride bikes. There’s a fun center with hundreds of coin operated arcade games and café.

Of course you can walk throughout the campground, but with this amount of amenities and 859 campground spots, a golf cart would be nice. Ocean Lakes thought of that too. Golf cart rentals are available along with service and sales. Plus, Ocean Lakes has a RV sales and service facility on site, in case you want to upgrade or need repairs.

Then we have the water park. This is not your typical small swimming pool in the corner of the campground. This is a full featured water park with large lap pool, indoor pool for the cooler months, lazy river, tube slides, mat slides, kiddy pool, splash area and putt putt golf.

The camp store had a small grocery with food and all things for the beach. A Laundromat with 100 machines, Sandy’s Meet and Eat for breakfast, dinner and ice cream. And if that wasn’t enough, the campground hosts musical acts throughout the year.

If you want to know more, watch the video below as I cover Ocean Lake Family Campground from front to back.

Additional information:

Ocean Lakes Family Campground

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Ocean Lakes Family Campground – Myrtle Beach SC

Elkin NC Vineyards and Fun Continues – Part 3

Elkin NC Vineyards and Fun Continues – Part 3

Elkin NC Vineyards and Fun Continues – Part 3

by Jerry Neal | May 17, 2020

This was our last day in Elkin, NC. For eight days in early March, we visited a number of the Elkin NC vineyards in this area, hiked a number of great trails and overall, had a great time seeing the sites and meeting the people in this area of North Carolina. Our trip today takes us to two vineyards – Dobbins Creek Vineyards and Laurel Gray Vineyards. The wines in both were quite different in style, but excellent quality and taste.

From Byrd’s Branch Campground where we parked the 5th wheel, there were 30 vineyards within a 20 minute drive and over 90 vineyards scattered throughout the northern section of the state. If you have an opportunity to travel to the upper part of North Carolina, I hope you get a chance to visit some of the excellent vineyards in the area. Great wines, beautiful vineyards and friendly folks – just another reason Joan and I love RV life!

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Elkin NC Vineyards and Fun Continues – Part 3

Grassy Creek Trails in Elkin NC With a Surprise

Grassy Creek Trails in Elkin NC With a Surprise

Grassy Creek Trails in Elkin NC With a Surprise

by Jerry Neal | May 9, 2020

One of the fun things that I enjoy about our RV travels are the trails and hiking areas we often find. That was definitely the case when Joan and I visited Elkin, NC and stayed at Byrd’s Branch Campground. There were several trails near the edge of the campground and on this trip I hiked the Grassy Creek Trails. Much to my joy, this wasn’t just your basic hiking trail. At the end, I found Grassy Creek Vineyard that was perfect for a short rest and refueling before I returned to the campground.

Grassy Creek Trail

The trail is 1.5 miles long to the vineyard, 3 miles total for the return back to the campground. The trails was very well marked and even on this early March trek, offered nice views of this wooded trail. The hike wasn’t verify difficult, less than moderate with one slight vertical that ran around 100 yards to and away from the Grassy Creek. Reaching the creek was a nice stop with a picnic table, strong bridge and pretty views of the bubble creek running along moss covered banks and rocks. Early spring flowers had started to bloom and I could image what the Spring, Summer or Fall views would offer.

Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery

As I reached the end of the trail, I was greeted by the Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery tasting room. Now I’ve hiked too many trails to mention and this is the first time I had the surprise of a vineyard waiting for me at the end. The folks at the tasting room greeted me as I entered the door and welcomed me with a large glass of ice water. Super friendly staff and the handful of patrons scattered about were very social wanting to know about the hike, where I was from and intrigued with RV life.

Then came the wines. Skipping the normal tasting, I went straight for a glass of the vineyard’s wonderful Chambourcin followed with second glass of their equally delicious Sirah. Interesting, they only had two bottles of the Sirah left and I purchased one to take back!

What a great way to spend an afternoon. Great hike. Great views. And, great wine at very friendly vineyard. Oh my, do I love RV Life!

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Grassy Creek Trails in Elkin NC With a Surprise

More Fun and Vineyards in Elkin NC – PART 2

More Fun and Vineyards in Elkin NC – PART 2

More Fun and Vineyards in Elkin NC – PART 2

by Jerry Neal | Apr 25, 2020

We continue our travels around North Carolina and visited two more vineyards in Elkin NC along with a really interesting stop at an Amish general store. This was a very pretty day to tour, a little chilly and windy, but that didn’t stop Joan and me. Aside from the great wines in this area and along with the sites, we are really enjoying to people of this region – so friendly and accommodating – they have really made us feel at home.

Shiloh General Store

Nestled in the middle of this North Carolina wine region is Shiloh General Store. Joan and I didn’t know what to expect and were quite taken back as we walked through the doors. A substantial selection of Amish made goods including jams, jellies, fresh baked breads, pies, mixes, pickles and much, much more. We also enjoyed the deli sandwiches made with fresh baked breads and delicious meats and cheese. We had a fun stop for lunch along with adding a few delicious items to our pantry.

Windsor Run Cellars

Windsor Run Cellars was another fun vineyard and testing room visited. Located along the Swan Creek Wine Trail, Windsor Run offers a wide range of dry and sweeter wines, meads and brandies. For Joan and me, we decided we would step out of our traditional wine comfort zone and try some of the different vintages offer. We were not disappointed. Fun stop, very good wines, gracious host, all equal a great visit and tasting at this vineyard.

Shadow Springs Vineyard

Our last vineyard stop for the day placed us at Shadow Springs Vineyard, as sister vineyard to Windsor Run Cellars. The surrounding vineyards were beautiful, even on this end of the winter season, you could see the mountains in the distance and the rolling hills and vines made it really something to see.

The tasting room was very open, nice bar area, and plush seating around a fire place with great views of the surrounding vineyards. For my tastes, the wines at Shadow Spring Vineyards were a home run – fantastic Cab Franc, Chambourcin and the ’14 Meritage was amazing. We had a great visit, a great host and comfortable social environment with many of the others visiting Shadow Springs Vineyards and enjoying their excellent wines.

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: More Fun and Vineyards in Elkin NC – PART 2

Camping in the Driveway – Because this Happened!

Camping in the Driveway – Because this Happened!

Camping in the Driveway – Because this Happened!

by Jerry Neal | Apr 14, 2020

How does the old saying go: “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Maybe mine and Joan’s saying is a little different. “When your main waterline breaks and floods your basement, then move into the 5th wheel for a little camping in the driveway.” A crazy Easter weekend, but we survived, enjoyed the 5th wheel for a few days and life’s back to normal thanks to the plumbers coming to our aid.

All in all, we fared well after the shock of seeing a creek flowing out of our basement the Saturday morning before Easter. Two feet of water in the crawl space and the water meter dial spinning like a roulette wheel was quite a shock! A call to the emergency line at the plumbing company, the plumber arrived and after a look at the task, we both agreed this wasn’t going to be a quick fix. We moved into the 5th wheel, was able to fill the water tank and we had running water, the X2 for satellite TV and thankful for the 50 amp connection in the garage. Monday morning, the crew came to the rescue. Backhoe, big ditch, new water line and we were moving from camper to house by late afternoon.

Thanks goodness for the 5th wheel and the excellent services from Ricky Heath Plumbing.

With our appreciation for the excellent service from:

Ricky Heath Plumbing

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Camping in the Driveway – Because this Happened!

5 Tips for Working From Home or RV

5 Tips for Working From Home or RV

5 Tips for Working From Home or RV

by Jerry Neal | Apr 11, 2020

If you are new to working at home or RV, I want to share 5 tips to help you establish your new workplace and make your work time productive. I started mobile working over 30 years ago in my corporate travel. Constant travel, millions of air miles, and thousands of hotel stays, and now working from both a home office and RV, I’ve developed processes to create an environment to conduct business easily, be productive, and reflect a professional environment when I interface with current and new clients.

I’ve create a video at the end of this blog where I share details within each tip. Here highlights for each tip.

1. A defined office space

Your office space can be anywhere, just as long as it’s comfortable and suitable to conduct business for hours. This can be the kitchen table, the corner of a bedroom, a spare room or even the dining space in an RV. The key is to have a place where your work products can be easily managed, it’s quite for calls with clients and peers, and there are fw distractions to take you away from your work.

For many, a simple folding table in a bedroom provides ample space. This can be especially helpful if children are at home and you need to close the door for calls or online meetings.

The RV can be an effective place for an office. If traveling with others in the small space offered in an RV, setting expectations on work time or what to do when you’re holding a business call can manage stress for you and those in the RV during work time.

2. Organization

This may not seem necessary, but organization of your workspace can be that single one tip that keeps your work time efficient and stress free. Workspace clutter can rob you of valuable time and add stress to your efforts. Wasting hours digging through files, constantly moving piles from one area to another in your limited work at home or RV space serves no one, but the pile you’re handling again and again.

Clean up and throw away the paper and junk that has accumulated and provides no value. Take time to place regularly used files in a briefcase, backpack or file cabinet that you can access quickly when needed. If you pull a file, put it back when you’re through. For files that are rarely needed, store away from your limited space, or better yet, scan, place on your hard drive for retrieval.

Lastly, save as much of the needed documentation as a PDF. This can be done as a “save as” or “print to PDF” function within the application, saved in hard drive folders for future reference, and sharing by email with others as needed.

3. Technology

From me, technology that makes work easier and more productive is what makes the world go round. Something learned over time, is that if it’s something is difficult to use or overly expensive for occasional use is both a waste of valuable time and money.

For most work at home and RV needs, a quality laptop is the main tool. It doesn’t matter if it is Windows or Mac along as you’re familiar with the operation of the applications for work. Trying to work from a tablet or a small screen laptop can generate fatigue over time. A laptop with a 15” or 17” screen is easy on the eyes and posture. Don’t cheap-out on the laptop. Make sure the laptop has the speed to do the type of work required.

Staying connected with peers and clients is important. More so now with the Coronavirus fears and the long periods we are experiencing with stay-at-home mandates. For simple face-to-face contact and basic screen sharing, Skype provides a quality experience. I use GoToMeeting on a regular basis. It is very easy to use for larger groups where multiple screens and desktop application sharing is needed. GoToMeeting is fee based, but provides a very professional online environment. Additional tips for technology used for online meetings are provided in the video below.

4. Define your work hours

Defining work hours can be one of the more difficult transitions for those new to working at home or RV. You lose the comfortable work routine that has been established over time. You lose the ability to close a door, go to a conference room, or have that quite space to work or hold calls. This can be difficult to recreate at home.

I’ve found that creating defined work hours is the best way to stay productive. Creating a schedule that is acceptable for others sharing the household is one of the best ways to remain productive during your work time. If there are slow-risers in the house, a few hours in the morning may work best. If you have very young children, then nap time is great for scheduling calls. Setting a fixed schedule and work time helps keeps peace in the home and the ever important calendar management for work each day.

5. Take time for yourself

You must take time for yourself throughout the day. At the workplace, we leave the desk often for another cup of coffee, to get something from the printer, attend a meeting; there are recurring tasks that keeps us moving. At home, that’s lost.

At least hourly, stand up. Stretch and take a few deep breaths. Go for a glass of water. Take five minutes to get let oxygen and blood flowing. Every two hours or so, walk away from the desk or table for ten minutes. Go to the mailbox, step out the door and let your eyes rest from documents and computer screens. Returning to the desk you’ll find productivity and creativity will increase.

I shared work hours above. Just because you’re working from home or RV, doesn’t mean you should work from hours on end. Go to work. Stop for lunch. And at the end of the hours allocated for that day, walk away and return tomorrow starting a new work day.

I hope this helps. I share much more in the video below. Although a long blog and even longer video, you may have more questions about workspace or the technology you need for your work at home or RV. Feel free to contact us with questions or ideas and we’ll do our best to respond quickly.

We are a participant in the GoToMeeting Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to GoToMeeting.com.

Products discussed in the blog and video:

logitech web cam

AWAWO tripod

4 foot folding table

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: 5 Tips for Working From Home or RV

Using the Haloview RD7

Using the Haloview RD7

Using the Haloview RD7

by Jerry Neal | Apr 7, 2020

We’ve been using the Halowview RD7 for over a 1,000 miles of travel and we’ve been pleased with the operation. We’ve written blogs and created videos over the past several months of the Haloview RD7 Backup Camera installation and Haloview RD7 Front and Side RV Cameras installation. What we haven’t shown is the use of the system while we travel.

Our blind spot cure

For our use, one of the big benefits with the side cameras was eliminating the right and left blind spots for the 5th wheel, especially in heavy traffic. Even with the use of our large truck and convex mirrors, we still have a spot that is difficult to see and more so when we are in a large city with multiple lanes with vehicles jockeying around to pass us. With the side cameras, I can now take a quick glimpse of the side mirrors and camera monitor to see if it’s safe to change lanes.

Rear camera view

Pulling the 5th wheel for now over 5 years, I didn’t fully appreciate the benefit of having a rear camera located in the back of the camper. In our last travels, we were in a campground that had very narrow roads, trucks and cars were parked near us on the side of the road, and I had to get very creative pulling into our space. Even though I had Joan at the back of the 5th wheel, it was so nice to see her standing in the back pointing out vehicles nearby and showing me the edge of our space.

We also had an instance in a truck stop where I needed to change fueling lanes. The backup camera gave me the safety of knowing what was behind us as we backed up and then moving to the adjacent lane next.

Overall, we’re very happy with the performance of the cameras and the wireless monitor.

(One note for the video below. We were on a very bumpy section of I-20 while recording the monitor view of this video. The monitor mount and video is very stable. It was holding a camera and the rough roads affecting the view.)

Additional information:

Haloview 7 inch 720p wireless range dominator system rd7 max

Haloview 7″ 720P Wireless Range Dominator System RD7-MAX

Haloview MC7108

Haloview MC7108 7 inch 720P HD Digital Wireless Rear View Camera System

Haloview MC7109-MAX

Haloview MC7109-MAX 7 inch 720P HD Digital Wireless Rear View Camera System

Haloview MC5101

Haloview MC5101 2.4G Digital 5″ LCD Wireless Rear View Camera System

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

SEE OUR COMPLETE LIST OF BLOG TITLES

Source: Using the Haloview RD7

The Old Mill – Pigeon Forge TN Gallery

The Old Mill – Pigeon Forge TN Gallery

The Old Mill – Pigeon Forge TN Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: The Old Mill – Pigeon Forge TN Gallery

Jones Von Drehle – Elkin NC Gallery

Jones Von Drehle – Elkin NC Gallery

Jones Von Drehle – Elkin NC Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Jones Von Drehle – Elkin NC Gallery

Roaring River Vineyard – Elkin NC Gallery

Roaring River Vineyard – Elkin NC Gallery

Roaring River Vineyard – Elkin NC Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Roaring River Vineyard – Elkin NC Gallery

Carter Falls – Elkin NC Gallery

Carter Falls – Elkin NC Gallery

Carter Falls – Elkin NC Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Carter Falls – Elkin NC Gallery

Byrds Branch Campground – Elkin NC Gallery

Byrds Branch Campground – Elkin NC Gallery

Byrds Branch Campground – Elkin NC Gallery

Click Picture to Enlarge

RV AccessoriesNot sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel? Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
 

Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life! Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the right side of the page and click subscribe.

Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).

Source: Byrds Branch Campground – Elkin NC Gallery

How to Winterize Your RV eBook

FREE eBook...
'How to Winterize Your RV'

Your Guide for RV Winter Living & Storage.

Valuable Tips & Info help you prepare for cold weather. Includes winterization instructions for full-time or part-time winter RV living.

It's FREE and there's no obligation...
Download your copy today.

Thank You! You will be redirected to the eBook download page shortly... After you've had a read through, please let us know what you think about the 'How to Winterize Your RV' eBook.