John Welte
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Posts posted by John Welte
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1 hour ago, John E Davies said:
Treat your truck before you leave home. At delivery, it will be problematic in November, maybe you can talk Oliver into letting you bring and leave the trailer inside for 12 hours after you finish applying it. Also it should not applied in direct sunlight. You should also use a clay bar or paint cleaner to make sure the surface is absolutely spotless. That takes a good bit of time. So just the front makes sense rather than the entire hull and roof..
Have you considered asking Service if they will do the entire trailer BEFORE delivery if you send them a 16 ounce bottle of Rejex? That would certainly be simpler.
John Davies
Spokane WA
"Have you considered asking Service if they will do the entire trailer BEFORE delivery if you send them a 16 ounce bottle of Rejex? That would certainly be simpler."
Great idea John. I will ask about that. Thanks for your suggestion.
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On 10/13/2021 at 1:46 PM, John E Davies said:
One 16 oz bottle should be plenty, I typically use a little over half. It doesn’t require a heavy application. Proper prep is critical, you must get off all the old wax and any bugs, sap or tar. I suspect that the bad reviews come from folks who did not prep adequately.
John Davies
Spokane WA
John,
We will pick up on November 7 and I plan to use Rejex instead of wax based on the recommendation of an Ollie owner who swears by it. I hope to apply some on pick up to make it easier to clean the bugs off after the over 2000 mile trip back to Oregon. If it's decent weather and not cold, does that seem doable? When the trailer is delivered, I would think it wouldn't have any wax on it. I may just do the front if my time and weather allow it. Does this sound like a good plan?
John
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Hi all, does anyone have recommendations for a good dehumidifier and tubing to exit the trailer? John Davies recommended the night table between the twin beds as there's an outlet there. I am looking for some way to use tubing to let the condensate exit the trailer by some tubing. I will have the basement door between the beds if that helps. Thanks.
John
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6 hours ago, John E Davies said:
John, have you ever towed and slept in any trailer beside your Coleman? If not you should consider renting a travel trailer for at least a long weekend. Pick one with full amenities including black tank. This will give you plenty of learning time including how to dump 😳
You can poke around inside all the cubbies and compartments and identify parts. You most likely will see lots of raw plywood and junk cabinets held together with a few screws and lots of staples. You will also see poor quality windows and little to no insulation, cheap weak steel frame (most likely rusty) and poor tires and suspension. All this will make you appreciate the fine build quality of your new Ollie, and you will have a head start figuring out the basic plumbing, heating and electrical systems.
If you run into something confusing while camping in it, you can always take some pics and post here in the forums. Just remember to be where your phone works well…
If you don’t rent one, visit a few dealers and ask to just look around on your own to see their details. Or go here in a little over a week:
The main thing is to not stress too much. My sister is just a few miles from you. She bought a 5x7 teardrop a few years ago and she is still pretty much completely clueless about, well, everything. But she does enjoy it a lot, even though she and her husband have to push it back into campsites by hand…😳 Just last month they were doing that, blocking the access road, and two husky young men jumped out of their truck and took over😬. They had it nicely positioned in a few seconds.
There are some jerks here and there, but also lots of helpful folks; on the whole everybody you meet will be interested in your Ollie. Don’t feel alone!
If your Expedition is not completely up to date on maintenance, get that done in the next month. Change drive train fluids, make sure the tires and brakes are fresh and good, have a load test done on the battery. A five year old battery and tires are “aged out” and more likely to fail. It is best to change them rather than have to deal with a failure in the middle of nowhere. Have the entire vehicle looked over before your momentous looong road trip.
Buy a TPMS for the trailer and install it promptly, and make sure your Ollie tires are set to around 50 psi at most.
John Davies
Spokane WA
"If your Expedition is not completely up to date on maintenance, get that done in the next month. Change drive train fluids, make sure the tires and brakes are fresh and good, have a load test done on the battery. A five year old battery and tires are “aged out” and more likely to fail. It is best to change them rather than have to deal with a failure in the middle of nowhere. Have the entire vehicle looked over before your momentous looong road trip.
Buy a TPMS for the trailer and install it promptly, and make sure your Ollie tires are set to around 50 psi at most."
The tires are new, maintenance up to date. Battery is new. Good advice to have the Expedition looked at as you suggested. I do have a tpms. I think that's a must have. Thanks for all the suggestions. Thanks also for making your enclosed storage area big enough for two Olivers. That was great foresight! Glad we don't live that far from you. 😂🤣
John
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3 hours ago, Mike and Carol said:
John, you’ll be ready, you won’t know everything but it sounds like you are like me, I learn best hands on. There wasn’t much on line when we ordered, I watched YouTube videos on towing, dumping, electrical and so one, not Oliver specific but just RVs in general. I tried to pay attention at pick up. Carol had her iPhone videoing a lot of it. I retained less than 50% of what I was told and had to review what she captured. Our two week return trip was at full hook up sites because I wanted to practice dumping without holding up other campers. We used the return trip to learn and try out as many features as we could. It’s a good idea to stay in Hohenwald more than one night in case you find something wrong.
Fellow owners are a great resource. We initially had a solar issue and a black tank issue that were difficult to diagnose and caused me to do deep dives into both, learning a lot. We met some other Oliver owners before pickup. They’ve remained friends of ours and always answered their phone when I called with a question. I’m amazed at how the knowledge base on the forum has increased over the years, there are a lot more smart owners here these days able to help and mentor.
Don’t sweat the things you may not know yet, a little camping time will fill in the blanks. You’ll be ready! Mike
" Carol had her iPhone videoing a lot of it. I retained less than 50% of what I was told and had to review what she captured. "
That's a good idea. Thanks Mike
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29 minutes ago, Katjo said:
I think no matter how much you read and videos you watch you will best learn hands on. It’s good to get a rough idea by watching/reading all the tutorials/manuals etc but it’s hard to retain so much without actually seeing and doing everything with your camper. We felt so overwhelmed and “not ready” but you learn as go. With time it will become second nature.
Don’t overthink it.I am more hands on too. I will try to ratchet down the overthinking part. Thanks for reassuring me.
John
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6 hours ago, MobileJoy said:
I felt (nervously) ready at delivery time. The only towing experience I had was of an OEII that Phil allowed me to tow on our factory tour day (I came prepared for that). Make sure you take that tour if you can.
I notice that you did not mention the Facebook owner page (I have not used this hardly at all because I generally do not use Facebook, perhaps others can comment on this?).
I hope you will plan on at least a few days near Hohenwald at delivery time so you can test all of the systems before you leave the area.
Our first RV was the OEII delivered in 7/21. Before that I spent about 2 years looking at it. Much of that time was spent doing the things you are already doing. Having lived in the OEII for about 13 weeks total, I have experienced several problems (nothing major), some of which required cases, some of which I was able to figure out on my own, and a few of which were user error. I also spent a great deal of time evaluating my tow vehicle needs, studying the technical aspects of towing such as cargo weight needs, hitching mechanisms, etc. This is important and can save you legal trouble should you get in an accident (you want to be sure you are within all weight specs and are otherwise towing safely). You will need the Andersen weight distribution hitch with your Expedition.
Your background will at least partially determine the ease with which you handle problems. I am a (retired) software engineer and homeowner, and have acquired experience with carpentry, electrical, and plumbing along the way. Your ability for problem solving and your determination will contribute greatly.
The most likely problems are going to be electrical first. Your option list will determine what you have to learn. You will very likely have an Energy Management System (EMS) from Progressive Industries. I strongly recommend a thorough reading of that manual. In our case, we have the Lithium Pro package, so a thorough read of the Lithionics, Xantrex, and Zamp materials was critical. These readings (plus the owners manual) helped me understand how the base electrical system was connected and how the various components behave together. BTW, get a meter so you can diagnose problems as they come up. At campgrounds, you will want to test power on the pole. A 30A to 15A adapter plus a 15A circuit tester (a cheap device that plugs in and lights up with a combination that tells you whether or not the outlet is properly wired) is a great way to sanity check the outlet. If you notice strange behavior like the Xantrex flipping back and forth between shore power and inverter mode, you may want to monitor the voltage at the pole.
For plumbing leaks, learn about the PEX fittings. Many can be hand-tightened to stop leaks. Also learn about Sharkbite fittings which can be purchased at a big box hardware store and can be used to make tool-less repairs.
Ultimately, you should read all of your appliance manuals as well. We had an issue with the Norcold not cooling. It was cause by bagged food blocking a sensor on the fins in the upper right rear of the refrigerator compartment, causing ice to form there. A Facebook thread found by Sue pointed to that.
For trailer leveling, I use the LevelMate Pro by LogicBlue. I purchased it and had Oliver install it for me on delivery day in the closet because I was not confident that the attaching screws would be too long and pierce the visible side of the fiberglass. This system works like a charm, and I have verified its accuracy using a 4' level. I also use the Andersen leveling wedges, the Andersen trailer jack blocks, and heavy rubber wheel chocks I purchased at Northern Tool.
We felt the increased excitement as our delivery time drew nearer, which I'm sure you are feeling as well. OEII is a quality product, and you will probably have at most minor issues. Happy camping!
Mike
"For trailer leveling, I use the LevelMate Pro by LogicBlue. I purchased it and had Oliver install it for me on delivery day in the closet because I was not confident that the attaching screws would be too long and pierce the visible side of the fiberglass. This system works like a charm, and I have verified its accuracy using a 4' level. I also use the Andersen leveling wedges, the Andersen trailer jack blocks, and heavy rubber wheel chocks I purchased at Northern Tool."
I have the same leveling tool in the box still. Good to know that they can install it on delivery day. I am a member of the Facebook Oliver owners page and that's been helpful. Thanks for your comments. The forum members have been very helpful since my first post saying my wife is hesitant to buy because of the cost. I have the TST tpms. I will get the other items you mentioned. Thanks again.
John
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5 hours ago, Cameron said:
hi john,
i took delivery 14 months ago and i thought i was prepared. i'd read the forums and made lists of things to check. i thought i was taking my time and asking questions and being very careful. of course, there were a bunch of things i missed. it's so true that the excitement really affects your ability to look at the trailer with a critical eye. like most new owners, i've had a number of issues pop up, and they're still popping. however, the service department is really incredible about answering questions, problem solving, and resolving any issues with the trailer. i've opened plenty of tickets in the short period since i've had the trailer.
i recommend that after picking up your trailer, stay in the general area for a few days. try all the components. try them while connected to shore power, and not connected to shore power. look at all the forums and then check your own trailer. for example, if there's a post about someone finding a loose nut or bolt somewhere, check your trailer to see if you have that same problem. open up all the interior hatch doors (under the beds and dinette seats) and try to familiarize yourself with what you find in there so that you at least know what the inverter looks like and where it is.
sounds like you're doing everything right so far, so i don't think there's anything else you can do before delivery. i think the immediate days and weeks after delivery is when you'll really get up to speed.
"i recommend that after picking up your trailer, stay in the general area for a few days. try all the components. try them while connected to shore power, and not connected to shore power."
Our pick up day is a Monday and we plan to stay in the area until about Friday. One night at OTT, then close by at Davey Crockett. If all goes well we will leave on Friday or Saturday. I imagine we will meet others that are picking up then also and we can share thoughts. Thanks very much for your comments.
John
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1 hour ago, topgun2 said:
A bit of a fixer upper! With a nice view of the Tetons out the back window.
These cabins are located on the Elk Ranch just south of Moran Junction, WY.
Bill
Just needs a little paint.
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I have been reading the forum for the last year, looking at videos and the Oliver University. There's a lot to learn. I have read most of the manual. I don't feel confident that I will be ready. Have you all felt ready by delivery day? Any tips on what I should be doing to be more ready. I am more a hands on learner so I think that I will learn more on the walk through. Just feeling overwhelmed.
John
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On 8/9/2020 at 9:56 AM, John E Davies said:
Susan, I asked for “Mouse” to be delivered with no side graphics. I wanted the descriptive labels, just no swooshes. The trailer was delivered completely naked on the sides, so I ordered two sets of the “Oliver Legacy Elite II” stickers straight from the Service Department, no worries, and installed them myself in a straight line. It is not at all hard, but it does take some prep, patience and care. If you don’t have all three of those, get somebody else to install them.
I put “Oliver“ at the back on each side, mirror imaged side to side, see pics. I prefer this to the factory positioning. They are visually centered under the rear windows, and the bottom edges align with each other about 6 inches below the belt seam.
I suspect that they will be reluctant to install them in a non-standard way, but maybe they could be persuaded to just leave them off, and put them in a galley drawer for you to install later....?
"Susan, I asked for “Mouse” to be delivered with no side graphics"
Our delivery date is November 7 and I didn't want the side graphics. I was told that they're not doing that now. That's OK with me. Ours will have no side graphics.
John
John Davies
Spokane WA
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17 hours ago, Mike and Carol said:
Wow. Quite a first post.
I have to agree with Sherry, a few (not many) of our members can be very tongue-in-cheek with their comments.
Most of us who have been here a long time stay because we want to help new owners. We were new once too, and looking for answers. It’s a very congenial group of owners and I hope we can all work to keep it that way. Mike
Mike, you have always impressed me with your style of answers. You always show concern and try to help with any questions. Thanks. Have a great weekend.
John
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1 hour ago, Katjo said:
What is that one favorite camping accessory that you don’t really need but prefer not to camp without?
Mine is our Clam screen room.It goes up so fast and easy and I enjoy being able to be “outside” without being a human buffet for mosquitos and flys!
We’ve had our Clam for 2 years and it’s held up great through all types of weather.
What size is your clam?
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On 8/20/2022 at 10:58 AM, Mike D. said:
Reminder that replying to the OP is useful, however it is not responding to the poll. Please participate in the poll by checking the box and submitting your vote. It will be useful to all if we can see where we are, and the results might be beneficial to Oliver, if we can get enough data points.
The placard decal on 2021 Hull 797 is exactly the same as JD’s 2017. I’ve already voted above, but I run 45psi, check frequently with digital temp gun. I have a TPMS. I have tested the tire pressure several times by running them up to 60 psi for awhile on the highway, measuring temps, then airing down to 45, and checking temps again at next rest stop. No noticeable temp increases. If you are reluctant to reduce psi this low, you could try this test yourself. If your tires do not increase in temperature, your data confirms you have made the right choice. And more importantly (as JD pointed out), it is in accordance with the tire OEM. Based on JD’s reported good performance, I’m going to try lowering to 42 psi. Running this low may not be for everyone, as we all run at different weights, speeds, and road conditions.
"No noticeable temp increases."
When I used my TST tpms this summer on my pop up trailer, I saw an increase in the temperature that stabilized. I ran the tires at 50 and they increased to 59. Temperature was not worrisome. I will be towing our Oliver in November with a low weight as it will be new. Any idea what we should air it up to?
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On 8/21/2022 at 9:49 AM, Rivernerd said:
I used my TST on my pop up trailer and it worked great. In November I will use it on the Oliver when we pick it up.
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37 minutes ago, AZ Wonderer said:
August 20th is the date by which I have to finalize my options on an Elite II. I have everything sorted except one -- the backup camera. I had a backup camera on my previous travel trailer. It wasn't great and frankly I rarely used it. The camera option on the 2023 Oliver is $850. That's a lot of money for an option I may not use, if at all. I'm curious about others' thoughts and recommendations. Do you have it, do you use it, do you find it worthwhile?
We finalized our options two days ago and we went with the back up camera. It can also give you rear view vision ability while driving. The more eyes there are on traffic the better. So to answer your question, no we haven't used it yet, but I love back up cameras on vehicles. Our delivery date is November 7.
Best regards, John
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17 hours ago, SeaDawg said:
5 gallon gas cans are not only inappropriate, but probably more expensive than bpa free 5 gallon water containers.(containers are color coded so people don't make a mistake.)
If you can find them locally, less shipping.
We bought containers like these, locally.
How do you clean those? Seems an odd question since they carry clean water, but I found on bike trips that when I refill my water bottles on a long trip, that eventually they grow stuff on the inside. With those, I can easily clean them, but with those blue containers, how do you keep stuff from growing inside or how do you clean the inside?
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14 hours ago, AZ Wonderer said:
I'm a month away from having to finalize my options, too, so I bet we're taking delivery around the same time. I already have the upgraded mattresses on my options list. I've slept on the standard RV mattress with a mattress topper before, and am looking forward to a much more comfortable mattress and better nights sleep. They are pricey, and I'm sure heavy, but to me they're worth it.
Our delivery date is November 7 so we're getting our options list figured out. Maybe we'll see you in Tennessee!
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Hi all, we're down to less than a month away from needing to finalize options. Has anyone just gone with the stock mattresses and put a wool topper or another topper on it. We use a firm mattress at home so this might be both cheaper and lighter for those times that a mattress has to be lifted to work on valves, etc. I understand the latex mattress is comfortable but it's heavy.
Thanks, John Welte
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My guess is that if you could bring them inside, that they would move around too much despite being bungee corded and mar surfaces. I think the forces exerted on the bikes due to trailer movements would damage the surfaces. Maybe if they're wrapped in blankets you might stand a chance, but how do you secure them inside? Where does the bungee attach in the trailer. Those same forces might pull the attachment in the trailer away and damage your trailer.
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4 hours ago, csevel said:
I worked for a few years in a NF campground and yes, it's true, many people have no idea how unsafe and unmatched their tow vehicle is to their trailer. The inhibiting factor for most people including myself is that people usually have the tow vehicle BEFORE they buy a trailer and end up having eyes bigger than their stomachs! My Tundra would have worked fabulous for my Casita but is right on the hairy edge for my ILOVHER. I can't afford to upgrade at this time, nor are there any trucks available...so I will settle for packing light and ALWAYS using the Andersen...AND of course steering clear of the swaying train wreck trailer combo doing 80mph in front of me!!
In reading the forum for the last year, I have learned a lot. I didn't know about payload, GVRW, GCVRW, etc. It will be eye opening to see rigs this summer where the tv isn't matched even closely to the trailer.
John
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39 minutes ago, John E Davies said:
“You can make many upgrades to your battery system, but one of the simplest and most useful is adding a battery monitor. Let’s take a look at what a battery monitor is and how it can help you get the most out of your battery system.”
https://battlebornbatteries.com/what-is-a-battery-monitor/
John Davies
Spokane WA
John, we're getting a 2022 LE2 with solar and lithium batteries in November. Will ours need this battery monitor?
Thanks, John
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5 hours ago, John E Davies said:
Thanks for posting the pics, that badly repaired ground stud would certainly throw a bunch of circuits out of whack! The black tar stuff is perfectly fine too, it is generically called “liquid electrical tape”, and it is used for putting a flexible waterproof coating on any connection that you want to stay corrosion free indefinitely. The down sides are it’s quite messy, and it can cover up a lot of sins like your crappy welded repair.
It is very similar to pruning spray or liquid used on trees. If I did this repair to “Mouse” I would probably NOT recoat it, but the stuff is most excellent inside a 7 pin trailer connector, for example. I am not sure why the person applied it inside your trailer, it is not a wet or corrosive area.
John Davies
Spokane WA
John, I see it comes in clear also. Do you use clear on the 7 pin plug to seal out water? Do you use it anywhere else?
John
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1 hour ago, Cameron said:
Sometimes I feel like the buyer is the final quality control agent in the process and that we have to go through each and every component in the trailer and make necessary corrections and repairs. Of course if I lived in Hohenwald I could just pop over to chat with Jason and the team. But I don't. The upside is that each problem solved (and shared on this fantastic forum) increases our ability to keep our Ollies going wherever we go out on the open road.
Katjo's experience was very educational. The pictures she shared and the comments were valuable. I do want to learn as much as possible before we get our Ollie in five months. The forum has been great for learning.
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Rejex question
in General Discussion
Posted
What's the hourly rate?