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One of the great features of the Oliver trailer design is the fast and easy (no tools needed) access to ALMOST all of the plumbing, heating, and electrical systems through the hatches under the dinette seats and the beds, or by removing the kitchen cabinet drawers. One area that’s NOT readily accessible is the area under the bathroom vanity, even though there is plumbing, electrical, and furnace ductwork all tucked inside the vanity. The storage cubby in the front of the vanity is screwed AND CAULKED in place by Oliver at the factory, so access is a bit more complicated than the other areas. I recently needed to get into that vanity area for some inspection and maintenance, and after completing that I wanted to make future access easier (no tools needed and no caulking). I know some owners have replaced the storage cubby with a hinged marine access panel, but I didn’t want to lose the cubby storage. So here’s a detailed description of a simple modification I did, along with links to the parts used. Access is now fast and easy. No-Slip Clip-On Barrel Nut, for 0.025" to 0.15" Panel Thickness, 8-32 Thread Size https://www.mcmaster.com/94850A111 #8-32 x 1" Thumb Screw Stainless... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FZVLZKD?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share uxcell Edge Trim U Seal Extrusion, Silicone White U Channel Edge Protector Sheet Fits 0.5-2.5mm Edge 3Meters/9.84Ft Length https://a.co/d/1uWUZB3 Molex -3 Match Set - (3-Pin) w/14-20 AWG, Wire Connector - 2.13mm D, Latch Lock, MLX https://a.co/d/gapvioi

Lots here to digest. I will reiterate the most important thing is never hurry to do anything when towing unless its a true emergency. If you miss your exit, it's ok, you will figure out how to get back on track. In three lane traffic, flow with traffic in the middle lane. You can own your space in the middle lane if you flow with traffic. Never feel the pressured to move over unless you are the bottleneck from not flowing with traffic. From the middle lane you are in the position to be the courteous driver to let people in your lane. Make sure you manage a safe distance in front of your rig. Aggressive drivers will tend to fill this space ahead of you but just back off a little to create new space ahead so you are never tailgating then continue flowing with traffic. If someone is pushing you from behind, it is up to them to go around if you are flowing with your lane of traffic. In heavy traffic, actively track all traffic beside and behind in your mirrors so you know where you can safely move if you need to change lanes. I think of alert/active defensive driving in traffic as hard work to eliminate truly stressful situations and emergencies. Your LEll is only 7 feet wide, it's easy to see and track everything alongside and behind with even modest towing mirrors. Towing is an acquired skill that is not difficult learn. Get clear in your head the task at hand, get out there and practice. If you are a good alert driver, you can be great at towing a modest sized trailer. If you are not a good driver, it's time to get your head in the game. And least of all, don't let a backset driver stress you out. If they think they are such a great driver, let them drive.

Roll-up solar panels work great on the Webb space telescope, so should work on an awning. 😁 Funny that Mossey showed the sliding solar extensions, as I was already going to see if something like that would work on ours. A fellow Hiker trailer owner did something similar. Not extensions to existing panels, but hidden panels that slid out from under his roof top tent. They worked great!

On a 3 lane I generally stay in the right lane unless it’s an urban area with frequent on ramps, then I’ll go to the middle lane. Mike

One thing really important I would suggest you consider adding to your checklist or maybe I over looked it. Consider adding a check to make sure your TV and Oliver’s electronic brake setting is in sync. How to Adjust Trailer Brake Controller: 6 Steps 1 Step 1: Plug in the Trailer Wiring Harness. ... 2 Step 2: Allow the Brake Controller to Calibrate. ... 3 Step 3: Select Personal Settings. ... 4 Step 4: Set the Maximum Output. ... 5 Step 5: Adjust the Sensitivity Level. ... 6 Step 6: Manually Activate Brakes as Needed. Happy and Safe Travels! Patriot🇺🇸

@Dwain Kitchens I don’t know what TV you are going to be using if you purchase an Oliver or any TT for that matter. I can say that having really large electronically adjustable defrosting featured tow mirrors is one of the nicest visual tools to have when towing. The wonderful feature we enjoy when towing the Oliver is it’s only the width our TV and we do not have to extend our Ford Super Duty mirrors at all. The lower blind spot mirrors are an invaluable tool as well. In my experience larger mirrors are very critical to a safer towing experience. You will find they are a really invaluable and you will come to really appreciate larger tow mirrors when backing into a campsite especially in low light conditions. If you’re open to suggestions, consider going to a truck dealer of your choosing and sit it a truck with large tow mirrors and then compare it to a truck with standard mirrors. It’s a 💯 game changer. Just another thing to consider about when you decide on a TV. Patriot🇺🇸

309 miles today from David Crockett State Park to Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountan, Georgia. Everything from rolling interstate to steep punchy curvy mountain roads. Zero problems! The onboard computer said 10.7 MPG, down from the 18.2 sans trailer. The top two gears on my 8-speed automatic tranny are overdrive, so I locked them out. Stuck it on manual mode the entire drive, from 4th to 6th, depending on conditions, keeping the engine in the 2500-3000 RPM range. Now three nights at the lodge here and then the 776 mile slog home, only to turn around in six weeks to come 664 miles back for the Oliver rally! We love our new Oliver!!

This is a little different approach to adding additional solar panels. Mossey

Another Oliver owner taught me this. You're about to merge or change lanes, activate your blinker, assume the attitude that you're not asking for permission but rather you're indicating your intentions, don't try this with anything bigger than you.

tripmushrv - I quickly scanned your through checklist and my eye caught a couple of items you might want to think about: 1 - your reference 3-1 to use the Andersen WDH you really do not have to be "straight". It is easy to reconnect the Andersen as long as you back up at the same angle or orientation as you were when you disconnected. When I'm at a campground that has a gravel or dirt drive area, I simply find a stick and make a mark in the dirt right by both the front and rear tires. That way when it comes time to re-attach all I have to do is put those tires in the same place and the Andersen goes back on just the way it came off. 2 - your reference 5-9 I'd have to look it up but I believe that Oliver reduced the torque value to between 100 and 110 foot pounds. Certainly is a through list - nice work! Bill

Years ago, our friend Chuck talked about his plans to (maybe) make window awnings from solar panels. This company is planning to go bigger, and better. A flexible solar awning that can supply 1200 watts when deployed.... Novel idea. Create shade, and use the sun to create power. Wonder how well it will hold up? https://www.rvnews.com/xponent-power-partners-to-produce-solar-awning/

If you want to double surge suppress Progressive makes this 30A supressor unit that you would plug onto the pedestal first, then 30 amp into that unit. If you want to test, and also have a backup suppressor you can buy both 30 A units for $38 on Amazon. I simply leave these on the power cord when I put things away as I tear down at a site. Craig

Scary? We previously owned an Airstream 24' Sprinter - that was much more scary when it was windy or when passing/passed/meeting semi trucks. JMO. Charlie.

I've seen this before. Not like a real awning when deployed. More like a pergola because of the gaps between the panel sections. So, it wouldn't keep rain off of you and would provide only partial shade. Of course, with all that power, you could run the A/C...

Once you do venture onto a three lane interstate I find that staying in the center lane with the cruise control set at the speed limit or just below, you will rarely have to touch the gas pedal, the brake, or change lanes. Easy cruising, you’ll almost forget Ollie is behind you. The crazies will zoom past you on the left (mostly) and you won’t be in the way of the people that want to exit. UNLESS…. You are in a state that doesn’t allow large trucks, buses or trailers in the left lane…then you will need to pay special attention to your mirrors… on occasion you will need to pull into the right lane and let them by…

I would say that for me, towing is a skill that was easily learned. When I first started towing, I was anxious, but quickly learned that if my TV “fit through” the trailer would generally follow. My anxiety quickly dissipated with practice, and of course the more you practice towing, the more camping you get to do! Most other drivers I find to be respectful and courteous on the road. There is no shame in going at a speed you are comfortable with in the lane that fits you best. Happy trails!

Fishing line - with a "sawing" action slowly (like anyone could really do this sort of stuff fast) move the line down the back of the 3M. Once whatever it is that was stuck with the 3M is off then you can use adhesive remover to get the rest off. Bill

The 2023 Rocky Mountain Fiberglass Rendezvous will be held at Camp Hale (Leadville) July 18-21, 2023. This is a very enjoyable event and several Olivers have been in attendance at recent rallies. https://sites.google.com/site/rockymountaineggrendezvous/ There is no place better to be in the summer than the Colorado Rockies.

appreciate the 8-speed tranny info. I did the same process with the lighter Conqueror (3,700 lbs). I realize it will be struggle at higher altitudes, but it is the journey not the speed to the destination. Curiosity looks great. Glad to see the trip is going well. Stay safe...try to avoid the tornados! Steve PS: Finally got a Hull #...1377. Can't wait.

I went to their website for better photos. As you said, more like a pergola. Looks like thin, slender panels that somehow stack up when not deployed. https://xponentpower.com/ Watching the two videos on their site explained a bit. Especially the comparison video of a standard awning, and theirs, in windy conditions. The "pergola " design offers a lot more time to use in somewhat windy conditions.

What a cool and useful idea! Would love to see this come to fruition.

Very interesting. Imagine two of those (curbside and street side), ~2,400 watts with two (under ideal conditions), but that would power a LOT of appliances & accessories. No charging while driving though since the awnings would be retracted, but still a very cool product. Hope it succeeds.

If it's a small area, you can also try a plastic scraper. A hair dryer can help to soften. Goof off or 3m adhesive remover to get rid of the residue.

Love David Crockett. We have a Cube which is great to take the chill off when temps are 40°+/- and our sucks. Need to look at the marine one that Ruth has. Our thermostat doesn't work or I'm stupid, so we have to keep turning it off.

Not sure if anyone is interested, but I have been updating my checklist as I learn more. Attached is the newest version. Again, if you see any issues, please let me know. And if you are interested in it, just move on to the next post. Thanks! Check List (for everything!) - April 2023.docx

Just let the pups hang out the window and with those eyes they will melt the heart of even the nastiest driver - no problem.🤩 Bill

Lagun Table Package.pdfLagun Table Package.pdfFYI: We've received our Lagun hardware this week and I'm looking forward to installing it onto the nightstand base below the drawer (because we don't have the storage hatch option). Should we decide in the future that we "need/want" the hatch I'll build the side mount designed by Overland that moves the table/assembly to the street side by attaching to the underneath surface of the bed lip and the vertical bulkhead just below it. So, to answer your question: NO. You don't have access to the nightstand drawer (or the storage hatch, if so configured), but this is only when the vertical Lagun table is positioned in the mounting bracket. The side mount option allows the entire assembly to swing around to the street side giving access to the drawer (and the hatch). I know it's obvious but, if the table/assembly is stowed your drawer/hatch is accessible (DUH). The plus side to either table mount position, at least for us, is that should you have another person or couple over for entertainment, it allows for up to a 4-person seating arrangement. The side mount is definitely a DYI project. I'm planning to post a thread of my step-by-step Lagun retrofit project milestones later this week. I'll be making a mahogany folding tabletop that will function in either a narrow or "unfolded" wider mode as an earlier member posted, FYI. It will also serve as a gap filler between the twin mattresses with a puppy pad for Magnus' bed at night (WOOF!). Ha! Anyhow, hope this helps out some... Cheers!

A beautiful day at David Crockett State Park!

Mike and CnC: Exactly my thoughts and procedures as they echo the Battleborn guidance. The intent of my post was to get just such feedback. That said, the advice and procedures stated are only for OUR Battleborn based systems. Other manufacturers have their procedures to be followed. The very reason it makes sense (as all three of us did!) to always state what battery manufacturer and size/model we are talking about. Especially for Lithionics that vary quite quite bit from Battleborn, especially in the topic of cold weather unattended storage requirements. . GJ

If anyone actually goes to this event or if you are near Camp Hale - there is a small stream with a couple of ponds that parallels the main road for roughly a half mile. Stop in one or two of the turn-outs that are there and watch those ponds for a minute or two. At least two beavers reside there! Bill

Invest in a backup camera for your trailer, it's worth it, as well as a good brake controller for your tow vehicle. Also tow mirrors with upper and lower sections which make it easier to keep an eye on the wheels when you're making tight turns or backing.

Very nice job and attention to detail! 👍🏻👍🏻

Our current checklist: RV Quick Checklist 1 tires checked 2 Rearview camera on 3 Bathroom drain closed (in) 4 Shower curtain secured 5 Bathroom cabinet shut 6 Bathroom window closed 7 Bathroom vent closed 8 bathroom items secured 9 bathroom door closed 10 Check ladder secure points 11 Awning switches off 12 Awning remote stored 13 Microwave tray secure 14 fan in fridge 15 fridge doors locked 16 fridge on 12v 17 Sink cover stored 18 Stove off 19 cooktop cover closed 20 pots/pans/dishes 21 furnace/AC off 22 Marine fan stowed 23 roof vent closed/fan off 24 Remotes stored 25 TVs secured 26 antenna booster off 27 AC alarm off 28 Gas water heater off 29 water pump off 30 Xantrex setting #28 to 5 (storage) or 25 (camping) or 15 (generator) 31 weather radio off 32 thermometer stored 33 doors/drawers/windows closed 34 blinds closed 35 Cabin lights off 36 LP gas off 37 Electric water heater off/on 38 sewer hose secured 39 Install repeater 40 tire covers off 41 leveling jacks up 42 water/elec./TV/sewer d/c 43 Close tailgate 44 bikes secured 45 Wheel step removed 46 Ball hitch pinned and locked 47 parking brake set 48 Chains on 49 breakaway cable 50 Tongue jack up 51 vehicle lights checked 52 wheel chocks out 53 Linx levelers stored 54 door mat stored 55 doors/compartments locked 56 steps retracted 57 trailer brakes checked 58 trailer transponder in 59 radiator clear 60 washer fluid checked 61 ATF checked 62 brake fluid checked 63 coolant checked

Thanks Jumper69. I am just glad at least one person find it helpful - this doc is really geared toward the newbie or people who need explicit instructions. Anyway, I have make a very couple of minor changes to it, but one big change is that I sanitized the water system yesterday...so I have finally completed those instructions (#14). Again, if anyone see any errors or see a way to make improvements to it, I would love to hear from you! Have a great day!! Check List (for everything!) - July 24, 2022.docx

Thanks Boudicca! Again, probably most people don't need to have it so detailed, but I will attach the latest version of my doc here. If you see any errors or have any questions about it, let me know. Thanks! Check List (for everything!) - Copy.docx

Well.... yes. I've heard this from several people, and it is a logical approach. But for some people, they might require going through the process multiple times before getting close to home! I can appreciate the effort that @tripmushrv made in putting these together. Organizing a list is a way to walk through a process, and it can serve as a way to envision a series of actions that might seem complicated when one doesn't have access to any of the parts and pieces ahead of time. (I'm in that bucket of people right now). Being a first-timer and trying to be prepared can be a real hoot. There is a lot to remember. I can't count all the "don't forget" statements in the forum! I've tried following those threads, but haven't successfully taken notes on them all. The forum has proven to be a wonderful resource, and seems to also serve as a way for individuals to hash out thoughts about subjects. I really appreciate that.

I once raced an airstream to get the last spot at a campground. It was a good spot, too.

Ok - after actually owning my Ollie for a couple of months now (and taking some trips with it), I have updated my checklists. Here is the newest one....for those that are interested. Check List (for everything!).docx

I am a little surprised that wheel nuts need regular tightening, I haven’t found them to loosen at all, once they are checked once or twice after installing the wheels. They do however loosen noticeably if you paint (or install new) drums, the paint underneath the wheel hubs compresses and makes things looser. I am not trying to downplay the need to check them, but before every trip is not necessary if they have already “settled down”. OTH, checking too often never hurt anything, if it makes you feel better. And it might catch something weird before it gets dangerous. I do not carry a torque wrench on trips, even long ones. One thing I do is to raise the tires off the ground every two thousand miles or so, and check for any signs of loose or rough bearings. That, plus a TPMS, plus quality bearings and grease, should eliminate any chances of catastrophe. Tripmushrv, be sure to set the wrench back to the minimum value before storage, and be gentle with it, no drops to concrete please. It is a fairly delicate tool. And it should only be used for tightening, not for removing nuts. It can be used for other stuff too, like your suspension or coupler hardware.Even if you are not comfortable checking those, a kindly campground neighbor might be, if you have the tool and sockets to do the job. John Davies Spokane WA

There is quite possibly a solution for this situation coming soon...