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A weight distribution hitch and helper springs are two totally different things. The Andersen Hitch has two features built in. One is weight distribution, which shifts some of the rear axle weight towards the front axle. This by default also lifts the tow vehicle rear some. The second feature is an anti sway function. There is a friction cone system that dampens out sway. Helper springs or air bags and such only lift/level the vehicle rear. They don’t remove any weight from the rear axle. If you are over the rear axle or tire weight rating, that issue will remain with using helper springs/air bags. Remember, the weight on the rear axle includes EVERYTHING being hauled in the tow vehicle AND the trailer tongue weight on the hitch. It is better to over estimate this than to under estimate. The lightest your camper will ever be is when it just leaves the factory.

Bill, not trying to alarm you, but I had a similar experience last spring. I was in the process of repacking my bearings and when I removed one of the wheels the hub/ spindle cap just fell out, I don’t know how long it had been rattling around in there, but when I inspected the bearings and races, they were already scored. I ended up replacing the bearings and races, luckily the spindle just required some light sanding. You might want to check for contamination. steve

Plans? We ain’t got no stinkin’ plans! ???? We do have a lot of info. Let’s get together at the rally.

The lights that come on when hooked up to the tow vehicle (the little ones on the sides and back of trailer) come on occasionally while the unit is in storage with no hookups of any kind. Anyone know where I begin to look to figure this out. I have zero idea.

Good information, appreciate it all. I replaced the trailer side and cleaned the truck side. It is factory but it has been on there for 12 years, so it needed it. Everything actually works. All things, among thousands more, I did not know.

Several years ago, I added a Roadmaster Active Suspension system to my Tacoma to go along with the Timbren. I liked what it did for my truck's ride so much, when I retired the Tacoma from towing duties and purchased my F150, an active suspension kit was the first modification I added. It enhances the ride towing and non towing.

That is our plan. When we travel, we go to as many National Park units as possible so we tend to meander. This will be our first Alaskan foray. How long do you guys plan to be gone?

Super, thanks, that fixed the light problem (and thanks for the terminology). My last question is this something that is ok to just thoroughly clean or should I replace this part. Also, when I put it back together can I seal it with a gel that I can break loose but that ought to keep out dirt and water?

We are not able to attend the rally but are heading to Alaska on May 29th with a couple stops along the way. We are planning SE Alaska via Haines, Wrangle-St Elias, Sitka, Valdez, Kenai with bear flight to Katmai, Denali, Barrow and more. We post daily on www.twolanetouring.com so maybe we will run into each other. Small place I hear:)

So, I tried a different course this time, after all, and I can't really recommend it. Quite dull compared to the aarp course. The American Safety Council course is $15 instead of $20, but the aarp class is still a better value, to me. More thought-provoking, more interactive, and much more interesting way to spend 6 hours of online time, IMO. Sherry

I have just arrived back to MA with Hull #435 and my only real anxiety over the way I had optioned our New Ollie II was if I should have had the Zamp system installed by Oliver vs Installing my own. I had the portable panel from from my previous camper and had installed its system; which was pretty easy to do. So I decided to skip the solar option and do it again on my own (DIA/DIY (Lol)). I have begun the process: These are the components I have ordered so far: Victron Energy VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle Victron BlueSolar 75/15 MPPT Charge Controller - 15 Amps / 75 Volts To go along with my existing HQST 100 watt semi flex solar panel. I am thinking of adding a monitor but not sure if I want to just get a simple monitor for just the solar or upgrade to a full RV monitor system like the Simarine. https://www.simarine.net/product/pico-battery-monitor/ I will keep you posted on how it goes.

We are planning to order sheet sets and mattress covers from AB Lifestyles, a specialist in RV Bedding , now including Oliver Elite II. They did a custom Oliver order last year using the the dimensions for the Oliver Elite II twin beds. They now have bedding available online for ordering. Both sheet sets and mattress covers are available for Oliver Elite twin mattresses. They say on the website that each set is a PAIR for both left and right twin beds. The PAIR includes fitted bottom and top sheets for both left and right mattresses, and 2 pillow cases (one for each bed) . https://www.ablifestyles.net/road-ready-rv-sheet-set/ They also have mattress pads for the Oliver Twins. This link is to their plush pad…and they also come bundled in pairs (both left and right mattress shape one package) https://www.ablifestyles.net/products/ultima-plush-mattress-pad-for-campers-rvs.html This link for their waterproof covers…also a PAIR. https://www.ablifestyles.net/keep-a-bed-waterproof-mattress-cover-for-rvs-campers/ Finally, they also are a custom RV mattress company should anyone need to order those as well.

Wanted to post a few rally photos. Hats off to Coy and everyone that had a hand organizing this fine event. Enjoyed meeting new friends and seeing old friends. Additional photos are Welcome!!!!

A few more.