tallmandan

Saw this story come across my news feed. So pleased to have an Oliver! https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/local-news/tampa-bay-couple-bought-a-new-rv-to-avoid-trouble-but-discovered-defects?_amp=true

Welcome Andy! Congrats on your new Ollie. Enjoy Mt. Hood staying in your toasty trailer. We lived in WA for 26 years (Olympia and then Felida/Vancouver) before moving to Colorado in 2019. We were super lucky to find a barely-used LE2 a year ago here in Denver. We have loved exploring with it! Awesome places to take your new trailer around the PNW - Enjoy! Dan

Yes. Thanks for the photos and the link! I think I may order some

Hello @VBistro, We also live in CO (South of Parker) and I'm familiar with the Buffalo Creek area but have not been to that particualar campground. 2023 is a long way off to commit but we would try to join-in. Happy Holidays!

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.

Hi Nick, there are many here with much more experience and knowledge than me but, for what it's worth, I'll share my experience. I was lucky enough to find a used 2020 LEII a year ago. I bought a 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0 diesel to tow it. The consensus is that a 3/4 ton truck is "best" but your V8 F-150 will do just fine. As Mike said, the Oliver tows very well. That said, I always use the Anderson WD hitch. You mention a Curt hitch but don't know if you are getting the Anderson when you pick-up but I think this is a must with your F-150. I towed mine about 2k miles this season and always felt comfortable. The 7 foot width of the Oliver is also a plus when it comes to towing -- especially when you find yourself navigating through freeway road construction with concrete barriers tight to each side! We've loved our Ollie so far and you will too. 2020 LEII, 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0L Duramax 4x4

I use both Apple Carplay and Andriod Auto (work phone and personal phone) in my 2021 Silverado with tech package. Both work very well. The GM trucks have only an 8" screen but it's filled with the map except for a small strip down the side for icons to change apps. The zoom function works to see more or less geography in view. I have Gaia Map App subscription as well and it works through Apple Carplay but I haven't found much need for it yet. Google maps works for me and the key is to download my map area to the phone so I'm not relying on cell connection

I can't remember but I think it was on the Oliver Owners Facebook page that someone posted that they used this edge trim from Amazon on the fiberglass edges of the uppder storage compartments. I marked the product on my Amazon save-for-later as I have thought about it. It's black so it would only make sense if you have the black cabinet faces I think. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NL4C97O/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_3?smid=A339EJ58RW9U9H&psc=1 If anybody has done something like this, I'd love to see some photos... 2020 LEII, 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0L Duramax

Hey thanks for posting this! I have been thinking about this upgrade and just placed my order.

If you are looking for an external add-on solar panel the Renogy 100w Solar Suitcase is priced now at $187. I paid $219 a few months ago. I'm very pleased with how well it works with the included waterproof charge controller. The included case in very nice as well. I would not say it's light weight but thats because it's well built. https://www.amazon.com/RENOGY-Foldable-Suitcase-Without-Controller/dp/B00LXG4AXS/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=30E4LIP4PIHPL&keywords=renogy%2B100w%2Bsolar%2Bpanel&qid=1637861790&sprefix=renogy%2Caps%2C251&sr=8-1-spons&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExMjc5Vzg0SldWVkJCJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTUzMTc1MzNBWDlaMEJWS09aSyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwOTg2MTY3M1ZMQlJRSk05VUo3VCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU&th=1 EDIT: Sorry - that is the link for the panel WITHOUT charge controller. The panel WITH controller is still $219. I didn't realize when I posted. Link with controller: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079JVBVL3/ref=twister_B07W1267XJ?_encoding=UTF8&th=1 2020 Elite II, 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0L Duramax 4x4

@Islandgrl I have our Elite II (with solar roof panels and 4 AGM batteries) in storage now for the winter. I wrote a post about a cover I found and a 100w Renogy portable solar panel that I am using to keep the batteries charged while the rooftop solar panels are covered. Its in the "General Discussions" forum. It's been in storage for about a month and the external solar panel is working great to keep the batteries fully charged. The panel has it's own waterproof charge controller on the back of the panel and the included battery cable/clips stretch to attach directly to the battery bank. With the cable routed to the bottom corner of the battery compartment door, you can fully close and lock the door. My external panel is only receiving morning sun by its location but that has been enough so far. This Renogy external solar set-up is good quality and I plan on using it to supplement the roof panels if/when I end up camped in a shaded spot by purchasing a 30 ft cord. 2020 Elite II, 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0L Duramax diesel

I went to look at the window sticker from my Chevy 1500 3.0L Duramax and the axle ratio is 3.23. I'm not an engineer or a mechanic but I believe that is to favor fuel economy which is a main selling point of the the 3.0L deisel powertrain. I'm sure a 6.6L 2500 truck has more power and stability in towing but I'm just saying that my 1500 has performed well for me in towing my LE2. I've been more than satisfied with the low-end torque/power and it feels comfortable to me in handling the task of towing. I do use the Anderson weight distributing hitch which I believe you would not really need on a 2500.

I agree with those here who say a 3/4 ton truck is the ideal tow vehilce for an Elite II. However, I elected to buy a 2021 Silverado 1500 with the new 3.0L Duramax Diesel. I bought it in December of 2020 before prices went crazy and now have 10K on it with mayby 2500 miles towing my Oliver. As other's have said, the limitation is the payload spec like all 1/2 tons but we have not found it to be a problem for us as we don't take that much stuff. If I were buying the truck JUST to tow then I would have got a 3/4 ton diesel but it's also my daily driver. I've been a long time Toyota fan and it was really hard to sell my trusty 2005 4.7L Sequoia but the new Silverado 3.0L Diesel has been outstanding. Flawless performance so far (only 1 year and 10K miles). The 3.0L diesel is matched to the 10 speed transmission (believe it is the same trans as in the Ford 1/2 ton as joint project but not completely sure). The low-RPM torque of the diesel matched to that 10-speed transmission is teriffic. I live in Colorado and tow my Oliver to and over 9,000-10,000ft without any struggle at all. I've been really impressed. Now, add the other features that I have come to really appreciate - 30mpg on freeway when not towing and and 17-20mpg when towing, automatic engine brake is fantastic to hold back on the long downhill runs, GM advanced trailering package with 7 cameras and 360 view is really nice. @Keith-n-Jill maybe take a look at the 3.0 duramax if you can find one. They are scarce as well. GM is also now putting the 3.0L in the Tahoe and Suburban if that's of interest. 2020 Elite II, 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0L Duramax

Actually there are three zippers down the curb-side and I was able to access the door without removal after loosening the straps. will report back after the winter on how it held up.

I have the Oliver-installed solar panels on the roof. Taped a block of foam to each corner of the panels to avoid a sharp edge against the cover. It’s honestly a little too wide as it’s intended for the more standard 8 foot width but the length is just right. The included straps under the trailer pull it sung

Well after great trips in CO, UT and SD this year our Oliver is winterized at the RV storage lot. I though I would share my expeience with a generic-size cover and exteral solar set-up to maintain my batteries while the roof-top panels are covered. The 100-watt Renogy exteral solar panel with charge controller that has been discussed in other forum threads was just reduced in price on Amazon. At $189 now it's well worth it! The included battery clamp cable is long enough to reach from the battery compartment to the rear of the trailer where I have it to get morning sun. The cable can be routed to exit the battery compartment at the bottom corner and still close and lock properly. It's just long enough to reach to the back of the trailer where it can absorb morning sun. I was worred about possible theft but have added a locking cable to the very robust steel solar panel handle on the side which is rivited to the frame. The cable is locked to the frame crossbar on the underside of the trailer. Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Off Grid Portable Foldable 2Pcs 50W Solar Panel Suitcase Built-in Kickstand with Waterproof 20A Charger Controller https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079JVBVL3/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_6?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1 I decided to try a cover that is sold by Costco Online knowing that if I wasn't satisfied I could easily take it back to the store. I've been pleasantly suprised at both the quality and fit. Just thought I would share in case others are looking for options when covered storage is just not an option. The cover has already disappeared from the Costco website but here it the link to Amazon for the same model. The 15-18 ft cover reaches to cover the propane/electric jack and the rear spare tire. Once the straps are secured, its a pretty nice fit. Classic Accessories SkyShield Travel Trailer Cover, 15'-18'FT https://www.amazon.com/Classic-Accessories-80-382-103001-EX-Travel-Trailer/dp/B01KHX27HS I've only had it set-up for a couple weeks but so far it's working well and hasn't cost me a fortune. Wanted to share in case others are considering similar options. (Photos attached) 2020 Elite II, Hull 627, 2020 Silverado 1500 3.0L Duramax

@SeaDawg Appreciate your comment about your Honda 1000 to recharge batteries. I have a 7 year old Yamaha 1000 (900w continuous) that runs great and is very quiet. It's efficient and is rated to run for 12 hours at 1/4 load on one tank of fuel. I don't want to carry extra gas and I'm not concerned about running the A/C. Can you give me some idea of how many times I could recharge my 4 AGM batteries on one tank of gas if my solar is not producing due to shade/weather? 2020 Elite II Hull 627, 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0 deisel

Ok. Love the diversity. I'll add one from my road-trip Spotify playlist... "Ohh, They say that home is where your heart is, heart is I guess that means that my heart lives on the road I wasn't made to live as usual I'm on the search for something more beautiful I know the road takes a toll But all I can say, is "I wouldn't trade it for anything No, I wouldn't trade it for anything"

I believe they cost about $425 each. Shipping is free. I do have a discount code that will save you 5%. Let me know if you need it.

I should also mention that we don't feel like the mattresses are bouncy. I believe the top two inches of the mattress is latex, and the rest is high density foam and the quilted cover. They are comfortable for side and back sleepers as well as firm enough to sit on without feeling like you're sinking in. Some of the mattress we looked at bottomed out when you sat down or felt very bouncy.

We recently purchased custom twin mattresses from MattressInsider. They have a showroom in Denver which we were able to visit to pick out the mattresses we felt would be the best fit for what we wanted. We chose the 8.5" custom luxury latex mattress which I believe are less expensive than the similar mattress from Southern Mattress. They have several mattress choices which can all be customized to fit the Oliver. Our choice was based on comfort for sleeping and sitting. We are very pleased with our decision and wouldn't hesitate to recommend MattressInsider. We worked with Jeremy. If you are interested in ordering form them, please let me know, as I believe I have a discount code I can pass along to you for a 5% savings. www.mattressInsider.com

@SeaDawg@BackofBeyond@John E Davies@FrankC@topgun2 Thanks to all of you for your information and suggestions. Appreciate it. @SeaDawg You are thinking what I'm thinking - want a small, cheap panel that will keep the batteries charged if I cover the trailer but will be no big deal if it is stolen. Unfortunately, I have to keep the trailer at an RV storage lot. My thought was to drill an extra hole in the frame if needed and lock it to the trailer bumper with a small diameter security cable and lock where it is out of view from the main drive-thru and one would have to go looking for it. It's a low-crime area but if someone wanted it bad enough to cut the cable then no huge loss. I share your concern about a cheap controller in an unattended situation. I'm dissapointed that the zamp port on the side of the trailer does not go through the onboard controller before reaching the batteries. Does anyone know if connecting the panel through the 7-pin hitch connector routs the power through the onboard zamp charge controller? If so then I would not need a potentially sketchy exteral controller...right? @SeaDawg Curious - I see your Oliver is 2008. Has it always been uncovered? I'm concerned about the brutal Colorado high-elevation sun exposure 300+ days/year wearing on the plastic, caulking, vinyl windows, seals, etc. Should I not be so worried about that? TallManDan 2020 Elite II, 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0L diesel

We have an Elite II with the Zamp solar package including the zamp port on the side of the trailer. I would like to cover our Oliver with an RV cover (possibly the CalMark) when not in use which would, of course, cover the roof-mounted solar panels. There is no electric service at the storage lot and I'm considering purchasing a small external solar panel that I could attach to the rear bumper outside the cover and keep my AGM batteries charged while in storage. Does anybody have experience with this kind of set-up? Would a small 20w panel with controler be enough? So far I can't find an adapter for a non-Zamp panel that would work with the zamp port on the Ollie. Anybody have a link to one? Should I just connect directly to the batteries with alligator clips and will the battery door still close and lock with charge cable? Considering these two options from Amazon... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RZBVTGR/ref=syn_sd_onsite_desktop_34?psc=1&uh_it=289e09821f35644186bce4efffe39f69_CT&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyVjJNNDU3V1ZOM1MwJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODM0Mjc3MzFXMU9DQjIzSEgxTCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMDU4MjQzT0U5SFBPSFEyR1pMJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c2Rfb25zaXRlX2Rlc2t0b3AmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl#customerReviews https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072B5J7CF/ref=ox_sc_act_title_9?smid=A2D22KZJD14Y8Y&psc=1 Appreciate any insights or help! Thanks! Tallmandan 2020 Elite II, 2021 Silverado 1500 3.0L diesel

@VBistro Hey thanks for sharing the places to consider on our SD trip in the Fall. I’ll do some research on those. Congrats on your Ollie on order! I think there are 3 other Olivers in CO besides us but not sure. We have been tinkering around with our LEII in the driveway at this point and still impressed every time with the build quality! Where in CO do you live?

Thanks everyone for your responses. We tried our slightly older but awesome panasonic 1750 watt toaster oven and it worked on battery without overload on the 2000 watt inverter but definitely drew considerable batt power. As for my batts not ever reaching full, turns out the norcold refrigerator was not completed off. Hoping that was the reason but had to take it to the RV storage lot (HOA regs 😑) so I haven't been able to check again.