JRK
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Everything posted by JRK
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I have looked through the manual in the University, but do not see the model number for wheel bearings. Which Timken bearings/seals would I buy for an Elite I, single axle? I'll be putting about 5,000 miles on the trailer before I get home after picking up in March. I plan to have replacements for such items that might wear out/fail that will prevent me from driving, such as wheel bearings. Thanks John
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Bill I am feeling special today, as I got the vin for the Elite I, same as yours, that will be picked up in 6 weeks. I will be looking forward to hearing from you about what you have learned the first few days about what may have not been told, or changes you made from recommendations for delivery team, such as reducing the tire pressue. Vehicle registration paperwork is on the way. Enjoy the ride. John
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Insurance - received the vin today, and am starting the registration process. I am a Good Sam member (and AAA roadside assistance), so decided to look at the Good Sam RV insurance. The insurance agent at Good Sam suggested National General for $473.76 per year, paid in full. He said that the policy included full dollar replacement, which means he said that the full $62,000 cost of the trailer will be reimbursed regardless of how old the trailer is when the claim is made. My other vehicles are insured by State Farm and California Casualty. Any suggestions or observations regarding the trailer insurance? Thanks John
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I will be getting an Elite I in 6 weeks. I also am getting the shower curtain option, but assumed that a curtain came with it. I was going to use that curtain as a template for a new curtain, if I didn't like it. I probably should have looked at this forum in more depth before I made the purchase. Many items that I was told by sales as being a necessity, or the best function on the market I am finding out may not be. I would appreciate you letting me know what you find out about delivery with or without a shower curtain. I got my vin today, and the registration process is going forward. John
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Bioenno has a 300 AH battery, 20.7 in. x 10.4 in. x 8.6 in. dimension, $2650. https://www.bioennopower.com/collections/lifepo4-batteries-for-rv-applications/products/12v-300ah-lfp-battery-abs-blf-12300as
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I pick up mine in March. I Need to know these things. Or do I buy an escape instead. refer-if the refrigerator is plugged into a 110v receptacle, the plug may have fallen out/not making contact. That was the reason for removing the drawer/panel, to check for plug making good contact. Similar issue with microwave. This does not make sense to me, why it would be hidden, but apparently is. Needs to be checked. Only other reasonable issue is the possible need to reset refer control panel. Probably needs to be done by a service technician. Instructions show removing panels and shorting connectors. Norcold customer service can help. To verify wiring is correct inside the wall, an ac receptacle tester can be used on the receptacles. testers are not too expensive at hardware stores or harbor freight or Amazon. Easy to use, and can be used at campgrounds to verify pedestals are properly wired. Again, access to receptacle is not easy to use. Code indicates not getting ac, 110V, to refer. Either not plugged in, receptacle is faulty or not properly wired, or refer computer not recognizing incoming AC. If refer works, cools, on propane or battery, then it is working. Most likely AC plug is not properly seated in AC receptacle, just like a house receptacle. Hope your night’s sleep was restful, and poochie is feeling better.
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I assume that the Zamp controller works with the lithium iron batteries? Or did you change out the controller, too, to the Zamp? I have multiple controllers for multiple battery types for multiple uses, from various periods of my life, is why I am asking. John
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The pressure regulator Frank lists is a real pressure regulator. There are cheaper devices listed on ebay that claim they are pressure regulators, but really just restrict the flow volume, not the pressure. Make sure that the pressure regulator you use is really a pressure regulator. John
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California Highway Patrol will inspect large trailers, (big ones) as a class a driver license (same one as an 18-wheeler) is required. The checklist includes many points. One of them is to verify that there is NO fuse in the breakaway wiring. The wiring is also checked. the checklist does not provide a justification, but the assumption is that if needed, a problem causing the blown fuse may exist when the trailer is rolling away from the TV. (Also, the checklist includes for the breakaway cable to be connected directly to the TV, and not the safety chain.) John
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Thanks for the post. I have been looking for a place near Texarkana for on my way home from delivery. My dad is buried near Stamps, Arkansas. I haven't been by for a few years. I will keep clear springs in mind. John
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Be careful with light bulbs used for this purpose. As a fire investigator/retired firefighter, I have seen several fires caused by similar installations using extension cords and incandescent lamps (it is the heat from the incandescent lamp that provides the atmosphere change).
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Another reason for me to be apprehensive of Oliver. The solution Bill provided is spot on, BUT totally and completely NOT acceptable to need to give it. The connection and solution you were provided by Oliver would be illegal in California, and as you figured, defeats the purpose. one of the things that you should not do is what you were told as being ok. Do not connect the emergency brake breakaway cable to the safety chain. Forum, this is a $60,000 vehicle. Why this solution allowed by Oliver? That cable should be manufactured, assembled, at delivery to fit the tow vehicle, or the tow vehicle info should be collected and the cable prepared prior to delivery. Sheri. You are going to be fine. You see issues that do not make sense and ask questions. Enjoy.
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If you don’t smell the odor now, it was most likely the first splash residual until it aired out. Maybe a spray bottle with a diluted vinegar solution for such cleaning? It will clean the spillage and odors. But still needs to air out. Open windows/doors use a fan and freeze but odor needs to escape. Or just wait once it is cleaned to naturally air out. no different than a perfume. It will hang out for a while. You are learning about air movement inside trailer. where was Walmart? I either need to shop before I get there, or after I park. Leaning toward waiting. enjoy.
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I have always used either a cheap plastic grass 10'x12' mat from WalMart, or a Japanese tatami (bamboo) roll-up mat. They come in many sizes, and work outside under the awning or on a sandy beach. There are many different sizes and types of tatami.
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Thanks John and Anita. The checklist will be helpful. After my delivery walkthrough which will include my Q&A, I will review my checklist to make sure I have missed little. Hopefully, the extra day at DCSP will give me time to use everything thing to verify what is not visible or identified during the delivery walkthrough. I expect nothing to be wrong. Looking forward to March 17. John
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Firstly, thanks for the info. I read about camping seasons, and your water actually freezes in storage - I don't know what freezing is and what are camping seasons? Of course, it was 90+ for about 5 days this week here in my area of the coastal southern California. My job, in teh forensic engineering world, is evaluating such issues and problems, and helping the insurance company or lawyer to recover costs. I hope that you are not out of pocket any expenses. You mentioned contractor - I assume you are having work done around your house? The contractor is at fault, and all of the problems should be covered by insurance depending upon your policy. Hope all gets repaired and works well. John
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Thanks for the replies, and comments. John Davies, just to be a bit contrary, I am buying the Lexus. I view an Oliver as superior to the Mercedes or Lexus equivalent of the trailer industry, which is why I am here. I didn't want a $13,000 trailer, as I was concerned about the quality. I do not need a Rolls Royce, (used to be Cadillac), so I compromised at $60,000 for an Oliver. A 13' trailer. I do not expect any problems or issues caused by production issues. I do not expect any problems or issues due to the choice of installed equipment and appliances. The problems go with the $13,000 trailer (I won't mention brands). I do expect something of the quality of my last trailer, as a minimum, which was a 1985 Coachmen 5th wheel, 24'. I put more than 200,000 miles on it, with no problems or issues attributed to workmanship - ie missed issues, overspray, electrical problems or similar. Oh, I had to replace a couple of water pumps, a manual jack (just one), several sets of tires, the plastic window trim, all of the plastic roof vents, etc. which are expected. I am buying what has been described to me as being a premium product. That is what I expect to receive. That is what my research has shown. Thanks John and Anita, you have made me feel a bit more comfortable. JD, I have learned a lot from your posts. Thanks. When I read about glue from flooring making its way to the gel coat and not being able to be removed, or paint overspray on cabinets, or unfinished gel coat, I just shorted out a bit. When added to problems with the choice and installation of a battery tray that damages the battery, or reading about the installed Zamp issues and problems compared to other brands, I began to question my judgment. That level of workmanship is not acceptable at any price point, or quality level, Yugo or Aston Martin. I'm looking forward to getting the trailer, but I will be carrying my inspection list. I'll spend an extra night at DCSP before I begin my trip back to Los Angeles. John
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I have read numerous similar issues as these with splatter on the gel coat. We pay a premium price for the trailer - I am beginning to become quite apprehensive about my purchase, as I wait for my delivery/pick up in less than 2 months. If these visible problems, issues out in the open, are there, what issues are hidden that are significant problems? Improperly sealed windows and roof vents. Improperly installed showers. Continued improper use of wrong size fuses. What else? Why do I need to inspect my trailer, for this price? Is this really okay, and we allow it? What am I missing? John
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A moving mast will not work well with a directional antenna. Think of a flashlight - the radio signal is focused. The width of the radio beam depends upon the design of the antenna. An omnidirectional antenna is less problematic on a moving mast, and will probably work fine. The radio wave pattern is dependent upon the installation and antenna design, also. An omnidirectional antenna sends the signal out in a 360 degree pattern, or at least that's the theory, but again dependent upon installation factors. The radio signal won't be as "intense" as with a directional antenna, but with a directional antenna you need to know where the cell tower/weefee antenna is located. If you know that, then the window mount mimo directional antenna might be adequate. Still, it depends upon so much more, such as is the physical terrain open, trees, campsite in a valley, boondocking, in a park with a known internet connection and cell tower, etc. I play ham radio, at the frequency ranges of weefee and cell phone at times. I regularly put up 20' antenna masts for a few hours. I use both directional and omnidirectional antennas, depending upon what i want to do. Even directional antennas have a variety of radio wave pattern, which controls the effective gain of the antenna.
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If there is aluminum in the hull shell, then radio inside the shell will be attentuated. How much depends upon the frequency. John
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I found these videos somewhat helpful - they are focused on the Elite II, but the generic information is good. What to expect at delivery answers some of the questions. https://olivertraveltrailers.com/travel-trailers/videos/ The University location has some info up to 2020 trailers, but not for the 2021, yet. However, the 2020 info should be mostly applicable to the 2021 models. https://olivertraveltrailers.com/oliver-university/ SherMica - when is your delivery date? I would like comment from others on my perceptions of where to buy stuff. I do not normally like WalMart, for now dumb reasons, but they used to have a great RV equipment supply area. Usual reasonable WalMart prices. Everything from water filters, grounding adapter plugs, fake grass floor mats for under the awning. Camping World of course has stuff, but they tend to be higher priced - but you know that you will probably find stuff there. Harbor Freight will have some items. You can get a basic tool kit there, if you need one. They have varying levels of tools. I use them for tools that I use in the field that I may lose or forget. Their bags and cases (like Pelican) are pretty inexpensive and durable. Tractor Supply, one of my favorite stores, has a trailer supply section (not RV specific), and my favorite clothing store, Cabela's/Bass Pro Shops has an RV section. Keep a notepad nearby as you drive and sit about the campground. Make a list of what you think about that you wish you had, or actually need. I have accepted that I forget stuff, so keep notes. I learned that many years ago from fiction writers who keep a notepad on their nightstand to remember brilliant ideas when they wake. John
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I received this. My delivery date is March 17
John, it's almost your delivery day!
Congratulations, the delivery day to pick up your new Oliver is almost here! We look forward to taking you through orientation and familiarizing you with the options and operation of your Oliver. We'd like to mention a few things that will help you prepare for the day.
Please plan to arrive at the Sales Office around 9:30 AM CST. You will be greeted by the sales team and given an opportunity to get that first glance at your brand new Oliver. Once you've completed the initial walk through, we'll complete and finalize all of the necessary sales documentation.
The delivery specialist will do an in-depth walk through of all the features on your Oliver. We strongly encourage you to spend some time on the Oliver Travel Trailer website especially under Oliver University (https://olivertraveltrailers.com/oliver-university/) as well as viewing the delivery videos (https://olivertraveltrailers.com/videos/) to start familiarizing yourself with the Oliver. Please read through the owners and component manuals so you can be prepared with questions and things we need to cover to ensure you are comfortable with the Oliver. Orientation typically takes 3 to 4 hours.
Once orientation is complete, we will assist in getting you hooked up and answering any towing/safety questions you may have. We love getting pictures of our new Oliver owners just before leaving on their maiden voyage and sharing the news with other Oliver owners so...be prepared to say "Cheese"!
Last, we like to add one parting gift just to show our appreciation. Oliver pays for a first night camping adventure at Davy Crockett State Park located 30 miles southwest of the sales office. The campground is newly renovated, offers full service campsites, and is near amenities in Lawrenceburg, TN. The sales team can answer any questions you may have and help with reservations. This gives you the opportunity to stay close by on your first night in the event you have any questions or concerns. There is a Tractor Supply and Super Walmart within a mile of the sales office in case you need to pick up any last minute items.
You will need to bring a few things:
1. Receiver hitch with a 2" ball and the height should be approximately 24" from the ground to the top of the ball (not necessary if you purchased the Anderson hitch).
2. Your tow vehicle will need a 7 pin trailer connection and a brake controller installed before picking up your new Ollie.
3. We recommend a leveling kit, blocks and wheel chocks.
4. Basic tools and emergency road kit that might be needed while traveling.
Below is a list of things we will provide with your Ollie:
1. Potable water hose for water intake (or city water) connection.
2. Sewer Hose with bayonet connections.
3. Lug Wrench.
4. Two LP quick connect fittings (If LP quick connect option is purchased).
5. A 25 ft. power cord.
6. Emergency Jack Crank.
7. External Water Pressure Regulator.
8. Water Inlet Quick Connects.
9. Spare fuse kit.
Note: If you purchased the Winegard Satellite TV Antenna please be aware that due to the way satellite companies handle proprietary information, we will not be able to set up your satellite receiver. However, we have included some links below to show receivers that are compatible with Winegard for DirecTV and Dish.
If you have any questions, please contact us.
Safe Travels,
Oliver Travel Trailers Sales Team
888-526-3978-
John, thanks! I did - yes DID - get that email. Just re-read mine. It’s exactly like yours. I still get confused with the lingo, just because never towed anything. I am at this point assuming that my truck has the trailer light controller built in. I know it has the “7-pin” thing and even a knob on the dash “Trailer Steering.” Hoping still to find TIME before delivery day to watch ALL the videos and make some notes of things I be unclear on. They seem to do a great job of providing resources. I think it has just been me not firing on all cylinders lately because, well, Life 101 happened, etc. Thank you again.
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the problem with weefee/phone use is that when the signal is marginal, or non-existent, no amount of boost or antenna will process the signal, whether receive or transmit, SherMica. I think that you understand that. Until Elon Musk gets his satellite system installed, with a gajillion geo stationary satellites, there won't be universal coverage with any system. And even then, when parked under that nice shade tree, the satellite will be screened and the signal will be diminished. WeeFee uses one set of frequencies and phones use a different set of frequencies, so hence the need for different boosters and systems. So if using a JetPack or similar hotspot type system, that is your phone, which means the weefee or wired connection would be between the computer and the hotspot device. No booster needed. As you get more comfortable with camping and set-up, you might want an antenna, such as a mimo antenna, on the end of a 20' or taller mast. Actually easy to set up. I play ham radio, and set-up a portable antenna mast at most campsites or even for portable day use. Of course anything is easy when you know what you are doing, and have experience. Let us know what you think of the package. One of the pictures is of the electronic door lock. I also purchased the package, bowing to a bit of sales talk. If it works, I am happy. If no improvement, then it is the cost of a learning experience. I looked at the cost of the package, what came in it, and decided that it would be worth it. I wanted the doorlock, for some reason. I have some other ideas on weefee and cell phone antenna systems. Learning about that now. John
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Thank you Bill, Ray and Susan. I know of a park in Holbrook, but no other campgrounds between New Mexico and Flagstaff. I'll be stopping by Show Low to visit some dirt and pinon pines that I still own, drive through the Santa Fe area, depending upon snow (same with Show Low) and the petrified forest. Didn't know that Homolovi was a dark sky park - went to teh website. Been to Kartchner Caverns for a star party, and Grand Canyon, but didn't knowabout Homolovi. Now I do, and will see about stopping by there. Good info. John
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CT short Thanks for the picture. I knew nothing about the Andersen, other than Oliver sales told me that I needed it. I said okay. I now know what I need, and don't need, when I pick up my Elite I in March. And have a better idea how to secure the trailer and hitch. Thank you very much. SherMica, I had a similar question about what I was going to need - I am getting the Andersen for my Tacoma and Elite I. I now know that I don't need anything, other than the square thing that the thingy slides into - the receiver, the part that is mounted to the truck. Everything else will be provided by Oliver at delivery, it seems. We won't need to have a ball, or the insert - just the brake controller and seven pin plug. I couldn't ask that question the way you did, because I am a 66 year old male who is supposed to know stuff 🙂 I now understand why I was getting confused answers when I asked what insert height I needed to take with me. I don't take one.
