John E Davies

That is a grand project, and the results could be astonishing, but I would not like to be the beta tester. What sort of suspension design are you considering? Please keep us all informed. There are some great trailer suspension systems in Australia, I don't know a lot about all the variations, but I do know that if you go with a fully independent A-Arm type tandem design, you will have to grossly upsize the tires in load capacity since there is no load equalization and you will overload a tire in many situations. It would be very cool to have a foot of well controlled wheel travel...... have you seen this Adrenaline trailer "test"? It is insane. John Davies Spokane WA

The Garmin camera may have some issues, but it is a super simple installation. There is nothing at all to be done in the tow vehicle - it is wireless. You just replace the standard power cable to the Garmin gps head with the new one which has the wireless receiver built in. The only change from the basic camera setup is that I want to add an extension video cable and relocate the transmitter in the front of the cabin. The reason I want to stick with Garmin is that I plan to add more two cameras - the gps will handle four, and there are no extra cables running to the display. One camera will go over the hitch and one will go in the front grill. I can live with a low res display, but it does have adjustable reversing lines which are nice. I need to be able to see over the nose of my truck when offroad, and obviously I need the other two for hitching and reversing into a campsite or my garage. John Davies Spokane WA

We have settled on Fall Creek Falls due to amenities and location. Thanks for the suggestions. John Davies Spokane WA

I just heard in an email from Jason that the Elite II spare tire cover has been enlarged and it will now fit over a full sized tire. This is good news, but I have to wonder, does this mean that they will no longer be including a smaller sized spare tire? There would be no reason at all to keep doing so. Five all one size makes sense in so many ways. I have ordered a full sized spare for my build. John Davies Spokane WA

Can you elaborate? I want to install a Garmin BC30 to tie into my existing nav. But I want it to be on its own dedicated 12 vdc circuit and also to mount the transmitter in the closet. Jason is giving me a price of $390, and I have to send the parts. That seems excessive. Do you mind describing your setup and the cost? Do you think the Garmin camera would be OK broadcasting from 40 feet behind my dash unit? I have some doubts about the frame rate and losing contact. If the transmitter is up front it should be dandy. Thanks, John Davies Spokane WA

This has been discussed before, but I am not sure if there is a thread dedicated to the topic. I am in the process of working with Jason to convince him to do this before delivery. He states that Dexter does not recommend the mod, which is odd, to say the least. Axle lift: Dexter makes simple no-weld spring-over kits for $60 MSRP per axle. I have never read anything about them not recommending this mod. ... Welding is not necessary, though it is recommended. I do not see why it would be needed since the kit ties into the existing bracket using spacers. If I have this done locally or do it myself (easy) I understand that it will might affect my axle warranty. Will it affect other parts of the Oliver warranty? Negative consequences: It will increase the CG by raising the cabin about 4 inches. I can live with that - it is already supremely stable. 4 inch spacer blocks under the three jacks will be needed, or I can cut off the pads and fabricate bolt-on extension tubes. I prefer blocks, to keep the jacks higher off the ground for clearance, the front one mainly. Mudflaps will be required (though they should be installed by the factory on the standard trailer). Aerodynamic drag will increase. The steps will be higher off the ground when deployed, making entry a little harder. Brake wires might need to be cut and extended using waterproof (heat shrink) splices. Bump stops need to be installed to prevent over-travel. I am still researching this, I am not sure they are really needed. On my utility trailer I have not seen any problems. Neutral ones: The lift is very easily reversed if a new owner wanted to lower the ride height. The lower shock mounting plates can be relocated to the top of the axles, so the original shocks can be retained. The coupler and ball height will be increased (OK for my tall heavy duty truck, probably an issue with smaller tow vehicles). Positive ones: The steps will be higher off the ground (more ground clearance when stowed). The departure angle and clearance under front jack will be greatly improved, reducing risk of dragging, expensive damage and a possible tow bill. Clearance under the springs is improved (less hardware is hanging down, the ubolt nuts are now located up high. Cost is minimal ($120 plus labor) and can be done by any shop or skilled owner. It would by far be best to do this when upgrading the shackle bolts. It will look cool. This is important, LOL. I can understand Oliver not wanting to do this for liability reasons, but it is definitely a mod that some customers would greatly appreciate. Please discuss. Would you order a trailer with this as a factory option, for say $500? John Davies Spokane WA

Do thise pivot at the base of the arms or are they solid molded plastic? Do they get brittle with age? They seem pretty stout.... https://www.amazon.com/HOLDING-CLIP-CLIPPER-1-1-2/dp/B001HBSTTK John Davies Spokane WA

This is the split system that XP Campers offers for its biggest Version 1 unit. It is reasonably compact but it draws 50 (!) amps dc, and it is about $3000. http://www.sunpowertech.com/wp-content/uploads/SunPower-DC5000.pdf http://forum.xpcamper.org/index.php/topic/96-v1-air-conditioning/ SunPowerTech makes an even more compact 28 pound unit but it is only 3600 btus and draws 30 amps; I don't think that is enough capacity, even for a super insulated white box like the Ollie. http://www.sunpowertech.com/wp-content/uploads/DC3600-Card.pdf Remember that all those solar panels cook your roof. If you can angle them at 45 degrees towards the sun when camping, that can really help to lower the surface temp of the roof. What we really need to do here is upgrade all the low voltage systems to 48 VDC, and install lithium batteries. Problem solved. John Davies Spokane WA

All I have to say is, portable units are clunky, inefficient and a PITA but they can indeed freeze you out of a small room. I have used a 12k unit that worked remarkably well, considering the design restraints. Cool only down to 78 degrees? BS. In your situation I would buy a really small $140 Walmart 5k through the wall unit, fabricate a plywood mount that will fit into a window opening, and plug her in. The rest of the time it can be stored in a large bin wrapped in foam rubber. How about the Air Command RV unit? What are your thoughts on those? http://www.tvformyrv.com/content/AtwoodACPresentation2014.pdf John Davies Spokane WA

It still looks as if the departure angle is inadequate..... is there any damage visible on the lower surface of the bumper? I would worry about hanging up the bumper hard on a rock outcrop. A spring over axle suspension lift is the best solution. And/ or a long full width steel skid plate in back, but the latter would require re-building the bumper so that it hinges upward. Not a project for the faint hearted. But it beats pulling that beautiful back bumper off on some rough track. John Davies Spokane WA

I love the new the Raptor, but I would go with the Power Wagon for its better load bearing, solid front axle and OEM winch. I think it is a tougher truck overall. Are they discounting the Raptor yet? You can usually find a really nicely specced PW for up to 13K off MSRP, depending on the time of year. There is a Ram dealer near Boise that does this. I sure hope you get Oliver to lift your trailer. They refused me... ;( I guess I will get it done locally. I forget - are you getting the Nature's Head and are you going to do something with that empty tank? How about gravel protection, have you decided? If you are going to order a Stone Stomper maybe you could publish the required dimensions here. Are you going to stick with the ball coupler or go to an off-road one? We are set for mid May delivery, and plan to hang out in TN for a week, maybe we will run across each other. John Davies Spokane WA

I personally would be really reluctant to invest in a new diesel. VW's scandal has soured it for me, though I no longer have a VW or Audi car. (Nor will I ever.) Now the EPA is saying that the Ram and Grand Cherokee 3.0 EcoDiesels are not legal: http://jalopnik.com/everything-we-know-so-far-about-jeep-and-ram-s-alleged-1791118844 Modern diesel emissions systems are generally a very expensive long term heartache... Don't keep the truck past warranty. John Davies Spokane WA

Buzzy, I would never go where I had to give a non-refundable deposit and especially if I had no choice! Blue Star requires a $500 fully refundable deposit which puts you on the list. You get to choose a puppy from the current litter, your list position determines your priority. If you don't like any of the available puppies you can wait for the next batch and be at, or near, the top of that list. Just because these dogs are in high demand, there us no call for unpleasant and aggressive tactics by the breeders. You could always bring your Ollie out here for a visit and go to Pasco to look at some pups..... My driveway is available if you want a free spot. Maybe you could email Carol Stover and ask here if she has any recommendations for the Northeast. Tell her I sent you. http://www.bluestarlabradoodles.com/purchasing.aspx I have to warn you, the day that you are sitting on the couch at a breeder's house and a hoard of six week old Doodles comes swarming onto your lap, you are lost.... It is a heart warming experience. John Davies Spokane WA

Hi Buzzy, Zadie (female, white with apricot patches) is approaching 7, Zack (male, white with gray/ black patches) is 3. We originally acquired Zadie as a host family - we agreed too keep her as our own at no cost and the kennel would breed her once a year for up to three years. She had three litters, Zack came from the last. We then assumed legal ownership of Zadie at no cost, but we had to buy Zack at the regular puppy price.It is an interesting concept but hosting a fertile female is NOT for the faint hearted, and only works if you live close to the breeder and are on very good terms with him. Both our dogs have the ultrasoft fleecy coat, which looks and feels great but it requires some regular attention with a brush. The fur is hypo-allergenic and non-shedding, but you do get little dust bunnies on the floors after three weeks. They do not dump fur in vast piles like many breeds. They need to be professionally groomed every couple of months. Th fleecy fur balls up with ice in winter and is not a great choice if you plan to go skiing with your pet. Typical selling price is now about $2700, which is high enough to keep away those buyers who are not serious. Most kennels have waiting lists and you can't just pop by and get one. It is prudent to buy from a well established kennel that is dedicated to socializing the puppies and improving the breed through very selective DNA testing (Labradoodle to Ladradoodle - Multi-Generational, not Poodle to Lab - First Generation). One that has the puppy rooms located inside the residence is by far the best. Our kennel is Blue Star Labradoodles in Pasco WA, and after 8 years she is finally starting to break even but she has only had three or four litters a year - the higher volume kennels can actually make money on this. You really need to be wary of new puppy mills. If you think you would like an Australian Labradoodle, I suggest that you call some local breeders and ask if you can be contacted by some of their buyers so that you can visit. If you can find a Doodle Romp in the Spring, that would be excellent: Either of the two Labradoodle organizations can help you find a good kennel. https://alaa-labradoodles.com http://www.australianlabradoodleclub.us These are truly wonderful companions. We took Zadie on a three week road trip vacation just after we picked her up, and she loves traveling and being in challenging situations. Zack did not get that "break - in" and is much less comfortable away from home. If you want a pet to share your Oliver lifestyle, get a puppy and hit the road ASAP. Labradoodles are often used as therapy dogs because they are so good natured and they feel so good to touch and cuddle. If started early, they can be trained to be great lap warmers. Ours are both Medium dogs that weigh about 38 pounds and stand about 22 inches at the shoulder. Zadie has more poodle in her appearance while Zack has more Lab in him, with a broader muzzle and deeper chest. I suggest a Miniature or a Medium. The full sized versions can get huge and they may be a handful in close quarters. Most breeders will ship a puppy, ours sent one to Scotland last year. But I think finding a kennel nearby is best so that you can develop a personal relationship with them, and visit the place for an inspection and puppy fix before deciding. Thanks for the comment about my signature. I am so happy to finally be moving beyond the visitor status into Ollie Ownership. John Davies Spokane WA

For those of you worried about wasting a tube of expensive synthetic grease, you can buy a mini gun that does not use cartridges, and simply keep topping it up from the jar as needed. It would be good for carrying inside a couple of freezer bags on a long road trip, but no mini gun works as well as a big lever type or pneumatic one. Of course those can also be refilled, you don't need those cartridges. It is messy..... BTW I don't know anything about the gun in the video, but this little one is good ... https://www.amazon.com/Astro-101-Grease-Needle-Nozzle/dp/B000FMK7FG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484155079&sr=8-1&keywords=mini+grease A needle fitting works fine on a zerk but you must hold it hard in place at 90 degrees to the fitting. Another reason to have them facing inboard. John Davies Spokane WA

I don't intend to argue about social media, but a quick Google search of the term "Facebook security risks" should be enlightening to those who think their personal inforation is safely isolated by the "Closed Group" banner... John Davies Spokane WA

Red Line CV-2 isn't on the list but it is simply stellar for high load applications like CV joints and wheel bearings. It is hard to find locally tho often an automotive speed shop will stock it. It is a pretty light red so if your bearings get contaminated it is easy to see, unlike with black moly lubes. You can buy 14 ounce plastic jars or tubes. https://www.redlineoil.com/product.aspx?pid=82&pcid=17 Amazon carries it, and it has a five star customer rating. Many consider it to be the Best of the Best. https://www.amazon.com/Red-Line-80401-Synthetic-Grease/dp/B0053O9FQS Nobody has mentioned that mixing different types of greases can be bad - most especially mixing synthetic and petroleum based ones. It is best to choose one brand and type and stay with it long term, especially for suspension zerks where you are not physically cleaning out the old stuff, but instead you are just adding a few pumps of new.... John Davies Spokane WA

Me too? This doesn't make any sense, especially for those who wish to avoid the cesspool that is Facebook. Pardon me, that is my personal opinion... John Davies Spokane WA

My deepest condolences Buzzy. We have two multi-generational Australian Labradoodles - Zadie and Zack are definitely a big part of the heart and soul of our family. For some reason you make much stronger attachments to dogs than to any other animals, except maybe horses. There is only one solution, go look for a puppy! If you are not set on a specific breed, these are simply outstanding pets! http://www.bluestarlabradoodles.com/aboutmain.aspx Puppy pics: http://www.bluestarlabradoodles.com/pastlitters.aspx Hey, check out my new signature! John Davies Spokane WA

Why? You need a selection of different thickness pads or blocks anyway, for use on sloping terrain. What does this do that these won't, besides stay in place and look interesting? https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00I7BK234/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1X5H11EH41351&coliid=IKVCDKYXJ34M8 Moisture will drain out, sure, but the bottom of your steel pad will eventually rust, don't be fooled. All kinds of crud will collect between the parts. Can it be removed for cleaning without destroying it? To me it looks like an answer seeking a question. John Davies Spokane WA

This stuff is nifty. I haven't seen any of these pictures before. This one looks very nice, but in general the interior designs are psychotic.... http://www.messynessychic.com/2017/01/06/a-brief-compendium-of-vintage-caravan-brochures/ Messy Nessy is interesting - I have used up a lot of time looking at this site. John Davies Spokane WA

I love your attention to detail and craftsmanship. Keep those projects coming. John Davies Spokane WA

Agreed. The residential plumbing codes absolutely prohibit ABS plumbing for carrying any water under pressure, because it has a poor reputation for longevity. For storage of potable water it is perfectly fine. For drain and vent systems, ditto. There is no valid reason to not use the existing tank if it hasn't been contaminated. Even if it has, it would be possible to sterilize it. I plan to plumb mine into the fresh tank, I just haven't quite figured out the details. The huge advantage in working with an ABS tank is that you can drill a hole and simply glue in a nipple for a vent or overflow line. For the polyethylene fresh tank you should spin weld it, which is problematic for an owner.... tho any RV shop should be able to do it if there is decent access. Tons of great info about repairs ... http://rvsandohvs.blogspot.com/2012/09/holding-tank-repairs.html BTW we are figuring out options and will get a deposit off to the factory really soon. John Davies Spokane WA

Wow, why have I never seen this ladder before? It looks amazing! I don't see how it could fit up top of an Ollie with solar panels. It is rather bulky. Did you mean to carry it loose inside the entry area, or stowed inside the closet? I don't think it would fit there. I would love one for my home to replace my POS 24 ft conventional aluminum extension ladder, AKA "Killer", for outdoor use. Maybe I will ask for one next Christmas. I already have a couple of the wonderful fiberglass Werner Podium ladders, a 10 ft and 16 ft reach. They are stable as can be and extremely comfy for prolonged work like painting, but they are heavy and take up a heck of a lot of garage space and are not at all versatile like the Little Giant. John Davies Spokane WA

Cool, ask them about the following for the Elite II: Spring over axle lift possible any time soon? Spare tire cover - make it bigger to go over a full sized spare (matching size to the four others)? Removable carpet kit? Stone Stomper (Australian gravel guard that hangs below the A frame ... http://stonestomper.com.au .... I wish they would study this thing and offer a factory clone or a "SS authorized" (licensed and USA manufactured) copy as a factory option. It will require a sturdy removable aluminum crossbar going over the top of the A frame in front of the cabin, with holes cut in the propane cover. Have fun, John Davies Spokane WA