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These are from trips we've made in our van, but they are definitely in the spirit of the post. We are truly lucky out west to be able to find so many cool places off the beaten path

My wife made this awesome Christmas card for us! It features us, our many pets, and of course, our Oliver! Feel free to check out more of her work at hannahgumbo.com

Our second night in the new camper spent boondocking in southern Missouri. Third night (no pic) was at a Cracker Barrel in Tyler, Texas. Frank

We had some warranty work done while we were traveling in the Florida keys. Our fridge wouldn't start. For us this is a big deal as we have a prescription that requires refrigeration. If it gets warm it is ruined. After some help from someone staying at the park we were able to get it to work on gas. We coordinated with Oliver. They didn't have a recommendation in the keys. So we tried to book someone our selves. The owner of the campground wouldn't let this vendor in to the park. Turns out he just takes people's money a d never finishes the job. We found a boat service tech who was great. He fixed the problem. Real nice guy. No issues since. Turned out that Norcold refrigerators are also used on a lot of boats. He was willing to submit his bill to Oliver and was paid directly. Keeping Oliver in the loop is key.

This may be worth a try: My understanding is that the Bluetooth transmitter is in the monitor housing. This likely is inside your Oliver Trailer. So, you have double hull fiberglass, double foil insulation between them, the distance to the house plus glass windows/walls of the house all reducing the Bluetooth signal. In the absence of a "Bluetooth Extender" your remaining option is to reduce the signal loss include: Moving the house closer to the trailer. (Or the Converse) Modifying the signal barriers (Take your windows out of the house, etc.) Thinking outside the box. Me, I would go for thinking outside of the box.... Literally. Your 712 Smart data cable and power cable often have a lot more wire length than is needed. Try removing the screws that mount the monitor and hang it outside of Ollie. Maybe through the window that is facing the house. May want to put it into a Ziploc Freezer Bag to keep it dry all winter and tape over the window crack to keep critters and weather outside. The end result is that you will have put your Bluetooth transmitter outside of all of the signal reducing barriers of our OTT. Be sure to reinstall in the Spring. Let us know if this works! GJ

Are you drinking the water out of the fresh tank? If so you probably should stop, then you won’t be worried about an occasional odd plastic taste. I typically leave my tank partially filled and then right before a trip I fill it and let the water run out the overflow for five minutes or more. That flushes out or dilutes most of the “stale” water. I don’t use a filter at home (chlorinated city water) but I always do when on the road. I have been using this for three seasons and it works great. https://olivertraveltrailers.com/forums/topic/4376-7-cup-pur-water-pitcher-fits-neatly-in-pantry-affordable-filters/ FYI replacement filters are currently in short supply, buy a three-pack when the price is down to a reasonable figure, I keep several filters in reserve for this reason. John Davies Spokane WA

Agree with all the comments here -- there's nothing like a real wood-buring fire. However, fire restrictions in the West are growing every year and I expect to continue. The hassle of hauling the wood and the cost (must purchase firewood in the campgroud to avoid possible transport of invasive species or pine beetles) caused me to try a propane fire pit. This is the one we have: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KY4S388/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 It works well and we did enjoy it on several chilly nights. It's not the same as a wood fire for sure and it does feel kinda "fake." However, it creates nice, soft "dancing light" and some heat. We have 2 30gal propane tanks so I don't worry about how much propane we use -- but it doesn't seem to use very much for an hour or so in the evenings. Super easy to use and no smoke is a plus for sure.

https://www.truckcamperadventure.com/tca-now-testing-new-truma-aventa-air-conditioner/ "Significant noise reduction, which has always been an issue with RV air conditioners, has been achieved in the Truma Aventa by using a thick, noise absorbing EPP foamcore, while the compressor is mounted on shock absorbers to avoid vibration." Be still my heart!

We recently bought an overland firepit and successfully used it with our external quick-connects when we picked up the Ollie last month. Worked like a charm. I love the ambience of a wood fire, but I really don't like the smoke anymore. And, as mentioned here, there are lots of places in the west where you simply can't have a wood fire anymore. mb

Thanks for all the info. We ordered a red Clam Sport and side panels. Buying some new Ollie toys for Christmas as we impatiently await our summer delivery.

Sorry nothing to report from experience. However, I think Oliver is testing my new AC unit to be delivered this spring!?? (I have no idea what version it is but it’s on the FB page).

When you do that placement, John, please post a photo of that spectacle.

That is an entertaining idea, the device comes with a 25 or 50 foot data cable, I can’t recall which. As I mentioned above, mine most likely does better (in terms of distance) than the Victron solar controller, because the round unit is located up above the floor, almost as high as the pantry counter top, while the controller is buried under the floor. I haven’t tried hanging the round monitor outside yet😬 Maybe it could go up inside the AC shroud, in a weather-proof bug-proof plastic project box. From that high up, the signal might even reach 200 feet. The top of my flag pole (28 feet off the ground) would be even more spectacular. John Davies Spokane WA

Chris: No apologies needed. This new topic is on target to where I was headed. Basically what unit and what size works where (I.E. in what temperature conditions). I know that our OEII's are "relatively" very well insulated. But one must consider that the insulation level of most trailers totally stinks. So by comparison, the double hull and a bit of double reflective "Space Age" (SIC) insulation seems like a lot. In reality it is nowhere near that of most residential structures. (No rocks being tossed here as I am really pleased with the OTT's thermal performance). As such, my WAG is that the 9,500 BTU unit could work in many long duration run temperate conditions (I.E. not cool down). However it's ability to cool down Ollie after a long day's drive in the direct sun of the desert West, in the summer, would likely not be satisfactory to the expectations of owners. As such, my WAG is that the unit OTT will use will be the 11,000 BTU version. So to now pirate your thread (ERRRRRRRR) 🙂....... OEII owners, what's your thoughts on where OTT will land on the A/C size?

CnC, Hull #617, Dom 11K Have yet to use this one. Used the 13.5 K our MB Airstream (Sprinter) twice in 6 years. Note that too frequent cycling usually means the humidity isn't being controlled because the temperature is being satisfied too quickly. Additionally, the slower the fan speed the more humidity is removed.

I think I'm the only Elite I so far. Seadawg, hull # 12 2008 The original 13500 btu Dometic (2008) was overkill. Would freeze us out in a short time. Replacement 9500 btu Houghton has only been used and tested a handful of times in Florida spring, so high 80s to low 90s, and worked fine, cooled quickly, and maintained desired temp easily. I like the dehumidifier function, too.

@ChrisMI, I split your post, and the related ones to a new topic.

You're going to need a bigger store room!😆

I've used Battery Tender's for years and years - mainly on motorcycle batteries - with zero issues. In fact, one motorcycle battery lasted 11 years while being constantly maintained on one of these. Bill

Deltran (Battery Tender) has several models that support either 6v and 12v, or just 6v. They are rated for wet cell, gel or AGM. Battery Tender for both regular and maintenance charging: SKU: 022-0211-DL-WH 6/12V, 1.25Amp, https://www.batterytender.com/Battery-Tender-6V-12V-1.25A-Selectable-Battery-Charger SKU: 022-0202-COS, 6/12V, 3.0Amp, https://www.batterytender.com/Battery-Tender-6V-12V-3A-Selectable-Battery-Charger_7 SKU: 022-0209-BT-WH, 6/12V, 4.0Amp, https://www.batterytender.com/Battery-Tender-6V-12V-4A-Selectable-Lead-Acid-Lithium-Battery-ChargerBattery-Tender-6V-12V-4A-Select (both 6/12V for wet cell, gel, AGM or 12V only for Lithium) Small/lighter/cheaper Battery Tender Junior for lower-rate charging and maintenance charging SKU: 022-0196 6v , 1.25Amp, https://www.batterytender.com/Battery-Tender-6V-1.25A-Battery-Charger_2 I've used both 022-0202-COS and 022-0196 for AGM maintenance charging during winter storage, beginning with the batteries mostly charged, maintenance charging the 1st battery for 1 week, then letting the 1st battery rest for 3 weeks while I used the charger to maintenance charge the 2nd battery for 1 week (our Elite only has 2 6V AGM's), as described above. Repeat charging sequence each month in storage. I have 3 years on this initial pair of AGM's... and so far no issues 🙂

Sorry for the confusion! I originally thought I was replacing the straight fitting with the elbow, but I understand from your last post that I am installing the straight fitting into the new elbow. That's why I thought I needed to get the check valve out somehow. I get it now. Thanks very much for the clarification.

Feeling like a jerk for going off topic (on such a well formatted thread) sorry about that @Geronimo John. Good chance I’ll need the data from this thread if Oliver needs extra time to fully sort out the system. I’m hopeful we’ll find out that 9.5k will be enough to keep a tandem cool.

JD is usually John Davies. See his post above.

I wouldn’t drain it for only a week. I’d leave it half full then fill it when you start using it again. I’ve stored mine for a month or more with a full tank and no issues. Mike

Here is another view… Edit: one advantage of this unit for the Oliver is it can be hardwired in with a Truma CP plus. I really hope they’ll push this through quickly!

The nameplate looks covered, on purpose?

Mike and Carol, 2016 #135 Dometic 13.5 106 degrees in full sun on low kept us cool My next AC will not be as large.

Oliver under a full moon in front of a large campfire (No flash used). Boondocking in the Owyhee country of Oregon.

Good topic - I’m interested in the results. Something to keep in mind, which I just mentioned in another thread, is that I believe that Oliver increased the insulation a few years go. I was thinking 2020, but it may have coincided with the switch to the smaller AC. Regardless: 2017, #256 Dometic 13.5 85 degrees full sun - cooled very well but cycled a bit more than I thought it would, maybe a 75% on / 25% off ratio. I too think mine is a bit oversized, and if/when I replace it with a quieter model, will likely size down a good bit, especially since we rarely use it at all and when we do it’s usually only on a warmish spring or fall night.

Bill, we had site #1, which they gave us, but the young lady did say we were the only ones in the park so we could have had our pick. It was level side to side, but sloped downward front to back. My hitch ball was at 25” unhooked, and I believe the truck squatted at least 1.5” from the LE2’s tongue weight, so it should have been level. However the trailer was nose high on hookup, so I got service to reverse the ball (from .5” lift to 2” drop, so a 2.5” total drop), which appears to have made the trailer almost level (judging from the bubble level on the LE2). There may be a slight nose down attitude. Camping was great—very quiet and convenient. Allowed us to have service over on the hitch adjustment and me to ask a couple other questions. Frank

Thanks for the info. Few more pics. (Oliver park) Frank

I, too, miss @Buzzy. I think all of you have given some great comparisons to look at. Beyond what you've mentioned, I'd note that the 2022 trailers will have the nevr lube axles, if that's important. If the 2017 has solar, it may be 320 watts vs 340, not a big deal. And, that earlier solar package will likely have a progressive dynamics charger/converter, plus a separate inverter, plus a separate transfer switch. New models will have the more fully featured, lighter xantrex xcpro. Whether that's a bonus, or a big deal, is truly debatable, based again on personal preference. We prefer separate pieces of equipment, many times. Others like an all in one. It's mostly personal preference, and what you're used to. And, it's a lot easier to stomach swapping electronics on older equipment than new, if you decide to update to lithium. I think the things that are expensive, and difficult to change, are most important. I'd say, axle, wiring harness, space for full sized spare, space for convection microwave (if that's your preference, not ours) might be important factors. And, the pickup tube refit, if not retrofitted. (Free, but only if you go to Hohenwald for service.) The rest can be fairly inconsequential, imo. Any buyer of a 2017 will surely realize the appliances and electronics are now 4 to 5 years old. And, batteries and tires. All those things can add up, eventually. Maybe later than sooner. Maybe sooner than later. Personally, I'd consider manual awnings to be a plus, but that's what we like, so, again, a personal choice. The majority of our appliances lasted ten years or more, and some we replaced by preference. Tires and batteries, well, that's another story. Add 4 tires, at least, to the purchase price, for safety.

We have the 5 sided Clam, brown with the tan top. We also have removable side panels which work great in cold weather. We put our Outlander fire pit in the middle and the Clam stays warm even in cold weather. We can easily fit 6, 8 if we get real friendly. It is not too big for me to handle alone and fits in our truck bed end to end.

The propane firepits lack the charm and warmth of a traditional wood fire but they are an option as campfire bans become the norm in our dry, Western forests. We set ours up for use either by direct hookup to a tank or by tying a longer hose into the Oliver's external hookups. This requires the purchase of an additional longer hose and adapters to allow for the use of the original short hose supplied for direct tank hookup as well as the second, longer hose. We set up ours to allow for the use of quick disconnect fittings on both hoses. Heat output is not up to the standards of a real campfire, nor is the fire as fun. You don't get the snap and crackle of a real wood fire and there is no point in jabbing the propane flames with a stick ... always a source of amusement with a real fire. On the plus side, smoke is a non-issue and it does provide a focus point for friends to gather around. We were able to increase heat output by adding a bunch of small, pourous lava stones, courtesy of a local volcano. These stones are heavier than the fake rocks that come with the propane firepits and soak up (& radiate) far more heat. Make sure to use appropriate, completely dry stones to avoid the small, nasty explosions that can occur when heating water soaked stones. Speaking of things campfire, we recently purchased a small electric chainsaw for use gathering wood. Boy, what a time and labor saver! I should add we get 5 - 6 long nightime sessions (2 - 3 hours each) out of a 20# cylinder if we don't crank it up too high.

I've been following the price of these stoves for the past year and there is a sale on Amazon going on for the next 15 hours or so HERE. Bill

I have never researched a booster, but they might be out there. If you succeed, please post a new thread with your review. Mine does fine, it goes through three sheet rocked walls and about 40 feet of distance. Sometimes I have to shift my phone a little, but normally I can connect from my big comfy chair easily enough. My round display monitor is mounted fairly high, about thirty inches off the cabin floor, the MPPT solar controller is buried under the street side bed, and that signal only goes half as far. John Davies Spokane WA

Bluetooth typically is good for 30 or so yards. Sorry, but I know of no reasonable way to extend the signal. When in the house and our unit in the barn, I've gotten connection by manipulating my phone's position (near a window, etc.) Love Cochise county 🙂

I will add to the sage advice given - look at your truck's payload rating posted on the truck b pillar (may be on the door). That will be one of your limiting factors. WDH required to be legal and safe - my guess after a few long trips you will be looking for more TV. Enjoy.

HH Desert Lakes Golf Course in Alamogordo, NM. Nice spot in corner of parking lot overlooking the 18th hole at sunset. We had breakfast at the clubhouse the next morning before heading out.

We spent last week out at the coast of the Olympic National Park at the Kalaloch Beach campground, which is "dry camping" (no hookups) i.e. "boondocking" for the sake of this thread. We scored a sweet bluff-edge site overlooking the beach. The campground is currently "first come first served" but changes to reserved sites later today or tomorrow as they start their "high season" policy. Hopefully it will remain FFS in the off season forever as it's a nice place to head to in the colder months (which often aren't *that* much colder out at our coast versus in summer!) when the forecast is half decent. I miss the degree of spontaneity we used to have and hope we retain at least some of that forever!! There's lots to do in the area both along the shore as well as inland in the temperate evergreen rainforest which has some HUGE trees and tangled undergrowth and wildlife and water lots and lots of water. I hope folks don't mind the major photo dump - I had time on my hands and a few options for cameras 😄 Oh, and dogs are allowed on the beaches near Kalaloch, and there are a few trails in the adjacent National Forest near Lake Quinault where you can take them as well. Otherwise they are not allowed on trails in the National Park around there though.

We used to buy bottled water but that is a pure disaster (pun intended) in terms of storage and disposal. This pitcher is available for $30 in many places like Home Depot, replacement filters are easy to find, are about $9 each, and are good for 30 gallons. PUR 7 Cup Pitcher at Amazon Standard filters: Pur Replacement Filters We use an apple juice bottle for a storage tank, it normally stays on the galley counter near the cooktop. We refill our personal water bottles from that and when it is empty, we refill the juice bottle with water from the pitcher, and then refill the pitcher from the galley faucet. Since we don’t use the bathroom sink at all, the pitcher goes on that counter top near the faucet - it takes about ten minutes to “strain” all the water by gravity into the lower compartment. It is out of the way there when not needed, except for showers. For towing, the EMPTY pitcher goes into the top front of the pantry, with a full juice bottle behind it, and with dry goods wedged in so it will not shift. The lid is not sealed and you can’t transport the pitcher with water in it! It fits amazingly well, as if it were designed for this space. The reason we use the apple juice bottle is that we will always have at least that much drinking water when we stop for lunch or for the evening, and we don’t need to get the PUR pitcher out and filled until it has a safe place to sit overnight. This has been working great for two seasons now and I highly recommend this method over bottled water or drinking straight out the faucet. If you have access to good water, you can just keep the pitcher stored away and refill the juice bottle as needed. EDIT: Changed capacity and Amazon link, sorry I made a mistake on the initial posting. EDIT: If your used but dried out filter won’t flow water, remove it and soak it in water for 15 minutes. This will rejuvenate it, and this is the method you use for a brand new replacement. If it still won’t flow, install a new one. EDIT 08/02/23 If you want to conserve, fill the pitcher from the faucet while waiting for the water to get hot, instead of letting it go down the drain. John Davies Spokane WA