AL-KO Wheel Bearings

AL-KO Wheel Bearings

    Wheel bearings create a certain haze in my mind.  I understand their value and function but please don’t ask me to explain their design.  I’m leaving that to the engineers.  The proper maintenance is important to the life of your bearings… and the savings in your wallet.  You can  “repack the inner and outer bearings easily, without disassembly” according to the company.  Repacking of the bearings with grease is important to their function and longevity; so repacking bearings quickly and easily without disassembly seems like a money saver to me.  Referred to as “Ultulube” and available for trailers from 2,000 lbs to 8,000 lbs with either rubber suspension or leaf spring axles.  Here’s the deal, don’t over grease them (I did that) and my dealer gave me a polite lesson ($150) in cleaning up my over greasing.  The company says the hubs and components should also be disassembled yearly and inspected for worn and otherwise damages parts.  That seems to me to remove the ease… and cost of hub greasing if I’m ask to  disassembled yearly.  I’m not sure what to make of all of this.  Their side of the story can be found at www.al-kousa.com.  I like the idea of saving maintenance money but I’m not sure I’m accomplishing that with this product.

George Bogosian       

Pittsfield, NH 

ADCO RV Cover-up

ADCO RV Cover-up

    This will be our fifth year with our ADCO cover, but it took some repairs using a sewing machine and some backing material to keep it functioning properly.  The worst culprit was the water spouts on the roof at each corner that protrudes out 4 inches.  Overall the cover has done its job and I would recommend it to others and we will purchase another once this one comes apart and is no longer being functional.  It cost $165 in 2011 from RV Wholesalers.  There are different models offered by the company and you choose your model based on your location and the weather conditions your RV will be subjected to during your off season. We purchased an Aqua Shed model designed for our climate with moderate UV.   ADCO says the cover is not waterproof.  They say that in order to prevent mildew from moisture penetration the cover needs to be breathable.  It is a breathable cover concept.  They make covers for all type or RVs’.  The website (www.adcoprod.com) allows you to view their products and find your cover options and model; but you’ll have to purchase from one of their dealers and there are many of those nationally.

    The zippered entry doors create access when I need to enter the RV.  I do like the nylon straps and buckles that go under the rig and helps in securing the cover.  It does come with a two year warranty.  That at least is showing confidence in their product. 

    Be careful of using a non breathable tarp as it may cause more damage with trapped moisture.  A breathable cover is your best bet unless you have inside storage, but that only makes me envious.  This has been an RV cover-up.

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH 

AC Capacitor Upgrade

Air Conditioner Capacitor upgrade

    When I was considering a generation for my trailer to run my air conditioner I changed the capacitor to help with start up. It’s referred to as a “hard start capacitor kit” priced around $15.   Its purpose is to reduce the load on the generator and get the air up and running quickly.  With higher temperatures and humidity there is more stress on starting the AC unit.  The capacitor creates a boost of current to the compressor while reducing less wear and tear on the electronics of your equipment.  The capacitor simply kit creates more power to start the unit.  I’m not an AC expert and this info came from my research of this issue.  I knew that underpowered generator could cause damage to my AC unit and one solution other than a larger generator was changing out the capacitor on the AC.  My Champion 3100 watt inverter generator runs the 13,500 BTU AC with no problems and I hope to think that the hard star kit is helping to start up my AC and reduce problems.  I like to think it’s helping.  I did the install myself.  You can find information on the schematic info sheet found under the cover hood of the AC on your RV roof.  It will outline where the capacitor can be attached.  You need to size the capacitor based on your unit and BTU output.   The capacitors can be purchased on line. I used the capacitor from Supco company. I wanted to bring to your awareness this possibility of upgrading the capacitor and there is amble information on line dealing with installation.  

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH

Equal-i-zer Sway Control Hitch

Equal-i-zer Sway Control Hitch

    I own this hitch and recognize the bias I may have in this review.  But I dislike products that don’t function as promised and this hitch is well made and delivers performance.  You chose one of their four units based on the maximum loaded trailer weight and maximum loaded tongue weight.  I realize their reputation is high in the hitch field, but reputation can get lost in the company hype.  This product delivers.  Heavy steel, brackets, bolts, pins make up the parts and I see no short cuts taken in producing this product.  In the world of often marginal products it’s nice to see a company leaving short cuts to someone else.  The hitch weighs 50 lbs and the two spring arms come in at 20 lbs each.  I use a Hitchgrip (another review) to lift the hitch into my tow vehicle.  I leave the spring arms attached (90lbs) when I install the hitch.  A quality sway control hitch can play a huge part of your safety when you’re rolling down the road.  Weight distribution with your tow vehicle and minimizing sway of the trailer is high on my radar for safe travels.  This hitch helps to minimize shake, rattle and roll.  I feel safer… and I am safer.

    These hitches are expensive and I know many of you don’t use one but I ask you to consider the safety it would add to your journeys.  Even though I’m do- it- yourself kind of guy I had my hitch professionally installed.  I didn’t want any oops moments.  The parts installation is easy; it’s the adjustments for your specific trailer and tow vehicle that’s curcial.  That being said the owner’s manual comes with through directions for installation.  The set up is important so you need to be sure that’s done correctly or the function will be compromised.  Enjoy your travels… and be safe out there.

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH

Wingman Antenna Accessory

Wingman Antenna Accessory

    Here’s a simple inexpensive TV addition for those of you with a Winegard  Sensar Antenna “bat wing”, antenna.  For around $35 you can add this easy to install accessory that will improve you digital programming that you’re picking up free from your surrounding airway.  It made a difference when I installed one on my antenna.  It says it will increase the UHF performance by 100% and is referred to as a digital accessory.  I was skeptical; I mean, when did you last feel that spending $35 would make much of a difference in your RV.  I took a chance and was delighted with the outcome.  For me, this is one of those times where I just have to accept the magic of simplicity and the electronic signals floating around in our airwaves.  The wingman accessory actually improved my digital signal in my camper.  Impressive!  So those of you that didn’t have the Wingman on your Winegard antenna… you are able to install one for your viewing pleasure.

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH

Champion 3100 watt Inverter Generator

Champion 3100 watt Inverter Generator

     The Champion 3100 watt inverter generator with 2800 rated watts will run a 13,500 BTU air conditioner.  OK, this review is over!   Well, maybe a little more information.  I own this unit and it is a great generator for the price ($900 on sale) and function.   As many of us know 120 AC current is needed to run an air conditioner and that is accomplished by being plugged in or using a generator capable of running an air conditioner.   Solar won’t work here!

    The machine is quiet and even quieter if in the economy mode.  Much to my surprise, I can run my air on the economy mode that it offers.  The inverter generator allows you to safely run your electronics. Here are a few specs on the unit.  Model YF166D-331, it’s a 4 stroke OHV with a 171Icc displacement engine, net weight 84 lbs, it holds 1.6 gallons of gas.  

    This machine is substantially priced under the competition.  I’m not naming names here but if you’re looking for a generator you know the cast of characters.   I’ve been impressed with the quality of the machine and it has functioned flawlessly during its two years with me. It’s easy to start.  I t comes with two 120 volt AC outlets and a 30 amp receptacle.  It has a push button circuit breaker, oil warning light, and overload indicator light, output light and 12v DC outlet.  I love the handle! If you’re in the market for a generator with this size capability be sure to check out this generator, you may be pleasantly surprised….I was… and glad I made the purchase.  Do your due diligence and be sure to have this one on your list to check out.

George Bogosian
Pittsfield, NH

NuFinish Polish

Nu Finish Polish

I’ve used this product for years and have found it to perform as advertised.  $10 gets you a 16 oz (473ml) bottle of Nu finish.  It contains no wax.   I’ve used it by hand with a round pad applicator and also with a inexpensive ($30) electric polisher/buffer from Sears.  The water just beads off the RV for months once it’s applied.  Let dry to a haze and wipe off with clean soft cloth.   I have found that bug leftovers can be removed with a little extra elbow crease. The product says application once a year is all that’s needed.   I’ve found that to be true.  When you find a product that does its job and has minimum hype and fairly priced, well…. sharing that find with others is all that’s needed.  Simple is beautiful.  Summation…this is an exceptional product that does it’s job. Enough said.

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH

Solar Panel Kit for an RV

Renogy Solar Kit

Solar Panels for Your RV

            Putting solar panels on your roof doesn’t have to be a complicated or difficult project.  Two hundred watts (2 panels) of solar will run you lights, TV, radio and charge your phones and tablets.  Now this is where I could go on about all the options and directions you could take but I leave it up to you to explore all the possibilities.  That journey can be interesting and enlightening, as with most travels of discovery. This kit I’m talking about will work and provide some power for your rig.  I consider it a minimal wattage install with a smallish price and useable functionality.

 I have installed 200 watts on my trailer roof and I can tell you that with 2 batteries, 2 panels, 1 charge controller, 1 inverter you can have some useful and basic solar power that will function in your RV for less than $700 (2015). This kit is from the company Renogy.  They provide solar solutions for a number of applications for residential and commercial projects.  I wanted value...you know, a combination of quality and price.  I didn’t want the cheapest products available.  I wanted the long haul.   My due diligence lead me to Renogy and I’m delighted with their products and price.  Their panels are quality units and receive good reviews.  I did the installation myself.  It was not difficult.  I took my time and enjoyed the personal satisfaction of installing.  I made my own mounting brackets and arms for angling the panels.  I bought that aluminum angle and flat stock material at my local hardware store and cut them to fit; but you can use the brackets they provide.  

There are lots of kits on the market, some better than others, you know, the usual opportunities.  The Renogy products have the quality and pricing that makes the solar option possible.  Let the sun shine on.
George Bogosian
Pittsfield, NH

Dicor Sealants

 There are some RV products that you can’t live without and at the top of the list would be a good sealant.  The damage created by moisture leaking into a RV can cost an arm and a leg…or any other body parts you care to surrender.  Sealants on the roof systems are crucial and they need to do their job with a vengeance.  There are too many folks who’ve suffered the cost or repairs because of sealant failures.  It takes vigilance on the owner’s part of inspecting and refreshing the sealants yearly if needed… and is an important part of RV ownership and maintenance.  Dried out or cracked sealants can be a culprit and needs attention.  Make sure someone attends to that task.  It’s a low cost maintenance product ($10) with big dividends.  I’ve found Dicor sealants to really do the job for sealing out water. I’m a big fan of self-leveling Dicor sealant for sealing roof penetrations.   They make a number of products for the roofs of RV's that you can explore on their website, but in the roof maintenance world... their sealants are king.  But that’s just according to me…and a few others.  I’ve used their self-leveling sealants to refresh cracked roof sealants and the new installation of solar panels on my trailer roof.  I sealed the solar panel brackets and screws I used to secure the panels to the roof.  None of us like to create new roof penetrations but using the proper sealant reduces or removes the possibility of problems.  Enough said.

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH

Fantastic Vents

Model 1250 ceiling controlled fan
Features
Three fan blade speeds
Fits standard 14" X 14" opening
Manual lift dome
Quiet operation
Reversible air flow
High profile base


Fantastic Vent

Reputation is everything in business and Fantastic Vent has proven to consistently produce products that perform like a purchaser would want them to perform.  They make a number of models offering different features.  Extra features, extra price, no surprise in that concept.  But with extra features can come increased possibility of malfunction.  Sometimes simple is best but you can chose the features you desire.  Some features include automatic opening and closing based on temperature or rain.  Some have remotes to open and close the vent.  I prefer the simplicity of using the hand crank to open the lid.  No batteries required, just me. You can replace your older static vent with a new Fantastic vent in the standard 14x14 inch opening.  It's great if electrical wires are nearby the opening and will be a bonus for ease of installing.  Wires are often running through the existing static unit opening.  Obviously having a motorized fan can make all the difference in the comfort in your motor home, coach or trailer.  Sometimes natural air flow needs a push.  I’m not going to mention all the models they make, I’ll leave it for you to discover the features you’d like to have and the price you’ll pay.  I did install model 1250 (has reversible fan blades) in my trailer to replace a static vent that was over the bed and it’s made all the difference in the comfort inside the trailer.  You need perseverance to remove the old sealant surrounding the vent on your roof.  I was able to install the new vent myself… and learned more patience.   I found that the prices can vary for the same unit so shop well,  grasshopper.

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH

Fitness Bracelets

George's bracelet, $15

Louise's Fitbit Flex bracelet, $90

Fitness bracelets.  RVers need good health too!

Well, here’s something I thought I’d never own.  I’ll blame Louise because she said she wanted one so I ordered a knock off bracelet for $15, shipping included,  (I can be so cheap) and was prepared to order a brand name if failure appeared.  Well, she ordered herself a Fitbit Flex bracelet ($90) unit for herself unbeknownst to me.   So much for my surprise for her!  Guess who ended up with the $15 bracelet?

Both are comfortable to wear and we’re able to compare notes and capabilities with the different bracelets.  Both units seem to provide similar functionality. Sleep plays a pivotal part of our health.  Calculating your sleep hours, both deep sleep and light sleep and their durations, can be useful information. I can’t fool myself about my sleep times with these units and it allows me to adjust my bedtime hours to improve my sleeping habits.

     Tracking my daily steps, the other main function, and the calories I burn are calculated in some mysterious manner and transferred to the app I downloaded to my phone.  The apps are free. There are apps for both iphones and android phones.  It all has worked seamlessly for both of us.  The setup is minimal… but the use is yet to be determined.  What will I do with this new information I receive daily and totaled weekly in graph form.  These units do not have the heart monitoring ability; those come on the more expensive units (Fitbit Charge HR $150, Fitbit Surge $250).  So if you’re a runner or exercise heavily and need or want to know your heart rate you will need to purchase one of those bracelets.

    We have black units, but Louise’s more expensive bracelet allows you to purchase other color bracelets to keep yourself in fashion.  I’m happy with my black unit.  Blue and orange bands were available on mine but not interchangeable.  I hope to use this new found information to improve and maintain better health.  You need to take this information as estimates and not the absolute truths.  You can sit and twirl your arm (both units) and add steps to your daily totals.  But they do provide you with, what I believe to be, useful info about your daily physical activity and your sleep duration and patterns.  The value comes with what you do with that information.  It will not prepare meals for you but it could help you make better choices for yourself and help keep your health on track.  The bracelets have created a focus for us both to use to improve our health.   Be prepared to have a little fun with this concept and new gadget.

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH

HitchGrip

HitchGrip Review

When I first viewed the HitchGrip I, like many others thought, “Wish I had thought of that!”  Lifting larger hitches can be difficult.  HitchGrip helps in solving the problem but…the darn things are still heavy!  I wanted to use it with my spring arms attached to the hitch…and that is how I used HitchGrip.  I own an Equalizer sway control hitch system and leave the spring arms (20lbs each) attached to the hitch when I remove it from my tow vehicle.  I reversed the HitchGrip handle (pointing the handle towards the trailer) and I placed the hitch on the ground on a small block of wood.   Now my tow vehicle is free of all that hitch weight and I can go exploring with my tow vehicle. HitchGrip didn’t mention using it with the spring arms attached.  It certainly makes it heavier (90 lbs in my case)… but HitchGrip worked just fine.  With my Equalizer system I was able to reverse the handle direction (handle toward my trailer) of the Hitchgrip and the balance worked properly.  I was able to both remove and replace the entire hitch system with the spring arms attached.  The hitch system I use weighs 50 lbs without the spring arms and 90 lbs with the spring arms. 

Using proper lifting technique is needed to avoid hurting your back. Only lift what you are capable of lifting, don’t hurt yourself.  I bent my knees and kept my arms straight and lift with my legs.  I found that spreading the spring arms (about 10-15 degrees) was enough to stabilize the entire hitch and kept it from falling over on its side. I placed a leg on each side of the hitch spring arms which kept my legs and feet out of the way. If you’re removing and replacing your hitch system alone it is very useful.  Using the tool didn’t turn 90 lbs into 20 lbs, but the HitchGrip simply gave me a good handle to use.  I don’t know if the balance would work on all hitch systems with the spring arms attached.  You can always use it to lift only the hitch and replace the spring arms (this may be the best use for some of you) once the hitch is attached to your tow vehicle. I found the tool useful and would recommend it.  My only down side is… I don’t like orange!

George Bogosian, camper trailering for 20 years.

Pittsfield, NH

Genesis GT-2.0 radio, CD/MP3/MP4/DVD disc player

Genesis Technologies GT-2.0 

Electronics, in general, are often a combination of delight and frustration. They’re great when they work properly and that’s how the Genesis GT-2 worked when I installed it in my camping trailer. It’s a great replacement for the ZX75 which had been a problem-child and not functioning properly.  To install the GT2 I had to enlarge the height by ½ inch and I needed to have 5 inches of space behind the player. That new depth is needed because the disc player is now horizontal and requires that extra depth for installment.  All the wiring that existed for the ZX75 plugged right in the GT-2; it didn’t require any new wiring.  That was a delight.  I was able to handle the installation myself.  The Bluetooth also worked without any new wiring and I was able to make phone calls and stream music from my iphone.  The disc player played both my videos and music discs. The remote also has functions that are only available using the remote i.e. delayed turn off, on function and some MP3 track selection.  I like having a USB port on the front of the unit to charge my phone and tablet.  Having the SD port to utilize my photos or music I have on my SD chip is a plus and an upgrade from the ZX75 model.  The GT-2 does not have an HDMI input.  I used RCA cables from my TV to the unit to get my trailer speakers to function. It worked great.   It does have an optical cable option and I may utilize that at a later date.  There are other function possibilities with this unit.  You should check it out.

The GT-2 has been working properly with all functions doing their job.  What a pleasure! Score one for electronics.  I’d now like to upgrade my speakers.

George Bogosian

Pittsfield, NH