BackofBeyond

All, I'm doing some long term planning/thinking - has anyone any experience - recent 1-3 years - RV traveling through Mexico. We would like to do some pacific side camping, beach type camping, looking for surf beach communities, and such. Seems I find horror stories, but I know people are doing this, without issue. Just curious. Thanks RB

Were it me, I would start front to back propane system review - starting as you said with the fuel itself. . I wonder if the regulator, or something is freezing as the fuel passes , then thawing. Its a thought. But now with two or more appliances showing propane problems, you can focus on the common denominator. Good luck

Another interesting topic, flat spots on tires from prolonged storage. Given the Dexter warnings, and similar about using the installed jacks as a permanent support, it seems plausible one could support the unit on solid jack stands (or other) placed under the same structure the axles support. It would represent no different stress than the installed axles. Looking at mine, it seems workable. The intermittent rotation process works for me, but I admit, I wasn't thinking about it until ya'll brought it up. It takes a few min at best. Done. I have my doubts about the problem - flat spots- on a short term basis, I won't guess what that is, but auto companies have paid out warranty claims for similar - due to long periods of sitting in a storage yard somewhere. For me, if I couldn't get to my unit to do a quick rotate, and I knew it would be 9 months or more sitting in storage, I'd consider stands under the frame. Otherwise, I wouldn't bother to worry much. A few miles down a warm pavement would most likely solve the issue. Heck, for me, If I it was that much time between uses, I've got bigger problem. :-) RB

For me this is a very interesting thread. The initial refer was replaced, new unit does exact same thing. I assume both ran fine on ac/dc, you state new unit runs fine on AC/DC. A problem tree diagram - may indicate: 1)bad refer, ok, but two different ones, probably not, but possible. 2)something not correct in the propane system (do another tree) 3)The design of the refer is such that it is very sensitive to "something" in the propane feed - all control components could be working to design intent - but close enough to one end or the other of the specs, (stacked specs all in same direction) that the intermittent problem is variable - as to what I don't know. You indicate the Dinosaur board (I don't know what this is) works ok on propane, but doesn't coordinate with the controls for AC/DC . I find this interesting - not as sensitive to something in the propane system. Lets assume the refer, as designed and built correctly, works fine in all other real world installations except yours. Lets also assume yours is working to design intent. ( a caveat - are there any document or not, reported issues from the consumer field that are similar to yours, if so, its an area to be investigated) and Lets also assume its installed correctly - the sealing thing from Campers world. It should be verified against the manufactures written instructions. If it were me - I would systematically go through the propane system. Put aside what was previously done. Start from beginning, document each step. I doubt it is the propane itself - but it is possible - especially as you state the pressures are in spec. Transfer what you have to something else, start with ALL new propane material. If problem persists, install a new regulator, one that has a demonstrated a correct working history (If Oliver was inclined, take one off a proven working similar Oliver , install on yours.) Problem persists - replace or verify every piece of hardware between the regulator and the refer. If problem persists - I would be consulting with the manufacture's design engineers - they should fully understand their products design, and have useful input, given your documented actions. On the other hand, if I could not find - what should be a simple solution, I'd be working an a complete new refer that had a Danfoss or similar design compressor, running on AC/DC and go that route. Eliminate the propane absorption technology all together. I haven't helped you really, but I hope it helps in some manner. Good luck. As I have to0 often found - the problem is usually the simplest one - staring you right in the eyes. An Occam's razor kind of thing. RB

Yes, Rumline, I too saw some Yellowstone spots, but not sure we would actually go to the park again, if so we will do the first come thing. It always worked in the past! I think other than Florida in the winter months, I'll just not worry about reservations - for the most part. If there were more - any?- boondocking in Fla I would do that, but I haven't found any so far, well at least near the beaches of the gulf. The west is just so much more open, really looking forward to having the Ollie along this summer.

Thanks all, Mine was an attempt to acquire a "reservation" something out of the ordinary for me. Given my experience, I'll keep doing what I've done, but darn it , I'm gonna get a reservation on one of these high demand spots, even if I have to back out later. Its the challenge - man- the challenge!!! Think I'll target the Keys, then Yosemite in Aug...…. Ok, a deep breath, back to regular programming. RB

Geronimo John, Yes that certainly makes sense. I was using the factory supplied "regulator" and I noticed my fresh water tank volume was increasing. (over a few days) I had surmised there was blow-by in the pump- or somewhere else. This would be very similar to what happens at your home when high water pressure causes your toilet to run. I once had municipal water pumping 120 psi overloading the toilets, a regulator set at 70 psi fixed it. Duh! This thread certainly points to that direction - get a real pressure reducing device, set appropriately, and see what happens - or just as many do- use the fresh water tank, run your pump. RB

And that is what doesn't make sense. I'm sure there is some hack - somewhere- that will help with this issue. But my experience leads me to John's conclusion... until I find more info. The Yosemite system is set up differently than most- with multiple dates for reservations, and fairly detailed FAQ on getting them. I have thought about setting up multiple accounts (Mine and my spouse) on the Rec.gov, and reserve America sites, than use two machines, set up and waiting. Its a crapshoot . I was told of an issue with FLA reservations - there was indeed an inside angle - it was finally busted - but then again - who knows. If there are resellers, I've never seen one, and if they exist, then the systems need fixing.... RB

To add to the previous installs, its not NO drill, but its clean and simple. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0012GTVVA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 I picked one of these up, its a clean install. Seems sturdy enough, solid. [attachment file=screen door bar.jpg] 1/8 drill bit, a little blue painters tape for protection, and a Phillips screwdriver. About five minutes. RB I do not know how to rotate this once its in the forum?

Morning All: As background: We have been "camping" in and around the US for nigh on 40 years. With the vast majority being tent/vehicle camping, usually in un-developed sites- chasing whitewater flows. The last decade involved a stealthy class B van set-up, designed for a simple, yet comfortable camping experience- that required little if any trip planning. Perhaps the longest on the road experience was to Alaska, in and around the state, and to and from, a goodly amount of travel. Even that trip commanded but a few hard "must plan" days - a wedding, a river trip, and the day we needed to be home. Other than those events, it was free form - stop when we felt like it, find a place to stay on the way. It works well for us. Well, except for trying to stay on the beach areas of Florida, in the winter months. Seems that involves a full year ahead commitment - other than cancellations - another story all together. But I usually find something. Now, with the Oliver, and on the cusp of retirement and thus - more free time- I thought I would plan a 2 month spring/summer trip. And to my query - is the system fixed - or stacked against us. I had the crazy idea of visiting Yosemite in May/June of this year. I had done all the homework, was ready, was on the site, was ready to hit the button at precisely the moment the sites became available - 7am Pacific time - and with in seconds- ten to be exact - all the sites were taken - Huh??? My selections timed out within 5 secs of the 9am opening (my time), and within 15 seconds, every other selection, was taken. Well - according to the electronic selection system. Perhaps - no - for certain - I'll have to do more research if I want to obtain a certified reservation, until then - its first come first taken. My old stand -by. What if any experience do you Oliver owners have with these centralized - demand driven reservation systems. I'd love to know the tricks - if any - …. I'm comfortable doing my normal - little planning - itinerary, but I'll admit - I'm a little miffed at the Yosemite experience. Oh, well. Have a great day. RB

https://www.wsj.com/video/the-secret-to-why-a-tesla-costs-so-much-hint-batteries/65F3A21D-0837-4DA6-B739-612124815603.html?mod=article_inline&mod=hp_lead_pos8 Good summary on Tesla Battery

It must just be me, but that Rivian is just ugly, looks like a Ford Flex knock-off. Tesla, a nice Federally funded, pseudo tech company, run by an eccentric rich dude, that has yet to meet its own metrics. I'll grant you, the cars look cool, perform to design specs, but Tesla doesn't have any tech that is all that proprietary. More PT Barnum than not. As some in the industry and from the auto press contend, Tesla is more auto manufacturer than a tech company. Elon for all his brilliance, has no idea how to run a high volume manufacturing business, and that will be his downfall - great idea, pitiful execution. Does not make money selling vehicles, but does ok trading environmental credits. But, as Seadog states, he got the ball rolling. Sometime, after I've long turned to dust, the Oliver of the future, will be hurtling itself down some lonesome trail, silently hovering along, headed to some cool spot- back of beyond. Until then, I'll take my dino powered behemoth with my Ollie in tow, into the wilderness, desperately seeking solitude from the constant droning, or is it cacophony, of electronic intrusion. Sorry OP, I just couldn't help it...I'm a natural - disrupter. Ha RB

It is always an interesting read - the considerate replies to TV capabilities. What strikes me is the number of folks that are close, perhaps - "on the bubble" with the current TV, and question, rightly so, where the chips lie.. some seem to favor ultra-lite RVing, nothing wrong there, just not me... I would think your JGC would be "OK" - try it out, get some experience, experiment with your loads, do some real world weighing - worst case, you end up getting something more capable. I've been doing some backpacking - and ultra lite resonates with my aging back and legs - but not with my TV. I was on the bubble myself, within safe ranges, but not within the comfort and no worries range I wanted. Once I went to my current TV, it was no contest. Wish you well with your journey. RB

Yep, and may not have anything to with electric storage, could be something else entirely. I was involved in the manufacture of all electric trucks in the 1990's - Chevrolet S-10. Hi tech then, but Old fashioned heavy lead-acid batteries, the tech has come a long way in the last 20 years.... also - don't forget the hydrogen powered vehicles - yes there were working -pretty decent - proto-types. JD's cold fusion power pack may indeed be next. Just because the gov is pushing solar/electric doesn't mean there won't be some fringe disrupter that just blows up the current model. As "cool" as the Tesla seems to be, in the end, it will be someone else that will be 2nd, third, or later to market that eventually achieves the Tesla dream. Not to dis the Tesla folks, but , well, the biz model is not sustainable. I myself am holding out for something powered by deuterium fusion reactors, yes, the futuristic Star Trek impulse engines that let earth ships travel well -interplanetary. Fun to read the posts, RB

Can't wait for the discussion on generators to accompany these creatures. Unless one stays within a few "tens" of miles from the Homefront, a rather large generator will be needed to recharge, for the next 200 miles. Just stay away from generator restricted campgrounds. Perhaps the forward thinking vendors will provide charging stations at select RV sites. ……...

Rumline, We are in agreement! I only quipped about practicing - because the last time I tried getting the Oliver into my garage's 10' doorway - I was - lets just say- terrible....my wife says pitiful....oh well, I got rid of my ego along time ago, it rarely served me well.;-) RB

Not to hijack the OP thread, but this an interesting discussion - "the electronic do-dads". I am not one to shun technology, I use it when it is worthwhile. I know my TV has tech that I don't use - simply because I don't know its there.....However, it is important, as has been stated, we all should have at least once developed, if not mastered the skills these systems replace. The rear camera on my TV, is a great feature, really helps, especially with the heaver Oliver EII, (as opposed to my farm trailers). I've put a small yellow tape strip on the centerline of the trailers coupling to help alignment. Bottom line, the technology on todays vehicles improves safety for all, but it should not replace the human interface - awareness, caution, and skill - exponentially improve the results. Nan - if your reading - your choice of TV should at a minimum include a good rear camera system - check out this feature when test driving. Now, I need to get out there and hone my backing skills... when it dries out...…….

No doubt that's how I have felt a few times, jumping out, running back to make sure there is room, or what not. But it beats really screwing up! As for going it alone - If that was the case - I would be using the Sprinter/Transit Vans I converted into a stealth RV - perfect for one, tight for two - but Oh so easy to go almost wherever one wanted. But I do love the amenities of our Oliver. RB

Nan, I find your situation uplifting. To know that your out of your comfort zone, yet prepare to go there in spite of your inexperience, well, I applaud you. To let you in on a secret - even those of us with years of experience, have an issue or two, every so often. Sometimes in our comfort zone, we don't pay enough attention, and make less than stellar choices. It happens. So, as you state, its a something that can be learned by almost anyone with an aptitude to take on the new. It is not a question of strength, or age, its understanding what to do, and doing it properly. Simple as Pie. You haven't mentioned your choice of TV, that is important. With the right one, a WD hitch system will not be needed, and thus hitching is simplified. Actual towing - will be a little simpler also. If you have the time, when you get to TN, look me up, I'll help you in any way I can. I'm pretty sure with a little hands on, you'll quickly be competent enough to hitch anything- and move on to more pressing issues. (don't worry, I'm not a axe murderer, my wife sees to that) ;-) I wish you well RB

https://www.amazon.com/EVER-ADVANCED-Oversize-Gravity-Recliner/dp/B07GKWR8H3/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1549997760&sr=8-1&keywords=EVER+ADVANCED+Oversize+XL+Zero+Gravity+Recliner+Padded+Patio+Lounger+Chair+with+Adjustable+Headrest+Support+350lbs%2C+Green It seems rather sturdy, is very comfortable, we will see how it holds over time RB

https://www.amazon.com/Bussmann-BP-MDL30-Marine-Delay/dp/B001PYSSO0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1549996743&sr=8-2&keywords=mdl+30+amp+fuse I believe these are same, will have to check. Scentfreeinsc - I don't believe they are same, but I've been wrong before.

Almost too pretty to get dirty, Nice. I would guess the engine 'break-in" is not much more than 500 miles, for the towing aspect anyway. My GMC was that - but in reality the Duramax is gonna be settling in for about 20 times that, your gas engine will be fine - sooner. I always change the initial "factory" engine oil much sooner, under 2000 miles. But that's just me. Congratulations, Kathryn & Chad RB

Thanks folks, really appreciate the feedback. ScubaRx, - my wife's goal is similar - all National Parks, as many State Parks as possible, and everything in between. We have done a good part of this, but not with the Ollie. Currently planning for this summer - something I don't usually do - we usually just go. Trying to pin down a few reservations that are hard stop - gotta be there days, (Yosemite) and plugging in around them. As for the photo equip - please don't laugh, well, go ahead, I did, "So" from the hidden location, where only my wife knew, I pulled out the digital SLR I bought for her - what I though was just a few years back - well it turns out it was ten, TEN+ years ago. The batteries were dead - my wife preferred her phone. Charge both batteries, presto - a nice working camera - so its mine - now. The Cannon rebel T1i, EOS 500D - with multiple lenses, represents a challenge - it gives me something to start with, at 15 megapixels it will be fine for now. Your wonderful shots have rekindled an old interest. I'll add this to my list of things to do..... Yes Ride n Fly - there is an old Nikon film SLR somewhere in the back of a closet - its been retired for - well apparently I'm not good with remembering time, but it is many years..... RB

I've heard nothing but good on the baby diesel GMC. But --- what scubaRx said. It is that simple. Good luck in your search. RB

Great pics guys. Which leads me to photo gear... many years back I was using SLR, film, then picked up a SLR digital (not WIFI friendly) for my wife, but the tech changes so quickly anymore I just quit. The camera on my android phone is great, but not really for the cool landscape stuff. So what do you guys use - I enjoy those quality pics. Topgun, - thanks for the Buffalo Bill suggestion, If I EVER get to Kansas again I'll stop by - however - with all the western trips we have made, Kansas is just a killer - we hate the drive through there - I go south or north to avoid - although SD was not any better - bland prairie - for miles and miles. Good idea - combine the backpacking with fishing. Jeeze - I have so much more to do - I going to have to live at least another 60 years. RB Die young - as late as possible.