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Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Cyndy and I just returned from three weeks exploring southern Arizona and New Mexico with our new-to-us 27 mid-bath and a motorcycle in a trailer.  Mostly wonderful campgrounds, backroads and small towns to explore. Having recently retired, this was a nice taste of what the future may hold.

While camping at Brantley Lake in New Mexico (less than our favorite spot, by the way), I offered to help a neighbor who was having trouble setting up a tent in 30kn winds, accompanied by his child.  After the tent was secure, he explained that he had a one year old 31 foot motorhome of a brand we all recognize, sitting in his driveway at home.   He purchased it at a large RV dealer that we all recognize in the southwest.  He has since moved out of that state and the grey tank in the motorhome split and has separated from the coach.  The dealerships in his area that carry that brand have refused to do the warranty repair and he is being forced to return his motorhome to a dealership in the same chain in another state to have the repair completed. As a result, he was out camping with his daughter in a tent in the wind.  He subsequently shared all of the rest of the problems with the motorhome.  What a nightmare after spending a significant amount of money and carrying  heavy monthly payment schedule. They went home the following day.

He looked at our Lazy Daze and asked how we like it.  I tried not to rub it in, but did share that it has been very reliable, so far and that we really like it.  From the look on his face, we could see that he liked it too.

After three weeks of traveling on freeways, backroads, gravel roads, mountain passes, experiencing temperatures below freezing, hot days, wind, etc, I will admit that I am enjoying the Lazy Daze quite a bit.  I might even admit to sipping a little of the Kool Aid.  Everything worked just the way it should and we haven't had any mechanical failures or manufacturing deficiencies yet.  I still have difficulty getting used to spinning the V10 at 4500 + rpm going up the grades (I have been driving a chipped 7.3 diesel for the past 17 years), I'm concerned about the exposed, low dump valves on uneven terrain, and lack confidence without limited slip or 4X4.  On the other hand, it pulled up the grades at reasonable speeds, didn't get stuck in the soft stuff, and went slowly over dips and bumps and didn't smear off a valve. The wimpy trailer hitch receiver worked just fine. In a beautiful little RV park in Mayhill New Mexico, we opened the shades on those big windows around the rear bed and counted 24 deer around the motorhome, a beautiful sight that we would not have enjoyed in our beloved camper.

I'm coming around to thinking that we made a good purchase and maybe the rest of you have been on to something the whole time.

Then again, it might be the Kool Aid.

Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #1 –
"I'm concerned about the exposed, low dump valves on uneven terrain..."

You know, I've been a member of this forum since 2003 and although I've occasionally read of folks' concern about those dump valves I do not recall a post outlining an actual instance. But, perhaps I missed it... hey members, what about that?   :o
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #2 –
Quote from: Lazy Bones  - 
"I'm concerned about the exposed, low dump valves on uneven terrain..."

You know, I've been a member of this forum since 2003 and although I've occasionally read of folks' concern about those dump valves I do not recall a post outlining an actual instance. But, perhaps I missed it... hey members, what about that?  :o
ditto

Chris
Formerly: 2002 30' IB
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #3 –
That is good to hear.

Like adjusting for sampling error, though, I wonder if folks are extra careful about uneven terrain and obstructions because they are aware of the possibility to smear off a low hanging valve?

I'll try to not be the first one to report a mishap.

Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #4 –
I'd be hard pressed to imagine taking out the dump valves on our RB. I think I'd have to be doing some pretty crazy off road driving and throw a rock in their direction.

I have snagged my fair share of deep drive way entries in the last year and a half, but I've gotten pretty good at avoiding those as well.

The windows in the LD are a real winner. While in Yosemite, it was a pleasure sitting out the rain in the empty campground. Virtually left abandoned by the falling precipitation. Tents were disappearing at an alarming rate.

I've never seen the park so empty in all my years traveling there.

So glad you feel positively about your choice of coaches. Watched the Lazy Days infomercial show the other day and was saddened by how quickly young families sipped the kool-aide of the shinny SOB's the salesmen sold them on. Breaks my heart.

Drove our LD off the factory floor October of '15 and have not experienced a single problem with the LD itself.

Here's to many more years of enjoyable travels to all of us on LDO and for all those other SOB owners as well.

Kent

2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
 
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #5 –
"I have snagged my fair share of deep drive way entries..."

Oh yes, as have I! Exiting a steep drive and having those heavy duty 'skids' grinding over the concrete will get your attention like right now.   ;D

A prime example of that is the exit drive from the "Olive Pit" in Corning, CA (I-5). I've left grooves in the paving there more than once. Now I approach it at an angle and it works out better.   ;)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #6 –
Quote from: Lazy Bones  - 
"I have snagged my fair share of deep drive way entries..."

"...Exiting a steep drive and having those heavy duty 'skids' grinding over the concrete will get your attention like right now...."

"...A prime example of that is the exit drive from the "Olive Pit" in Corning, CA (I-5)..."

The Olive Pit must have had the same drive way engineer that the Stater Bros in Big Bear, Ca used. Like you, I've found another way in or better yet visit the Von's across the street.

So Harold, while the dump valves may have you concerned those rear skids can put the fear of god in ya.

Time to hit the skids with some rustoleum and a fresh coat of paint.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #7 –
BlueOx25,  we are in a similar situation as you.  Although not-yet-retired, we plan on pulling a small enclosed motorcycle trailer with our new-to-us 23.5TK.  My husband has similar concerns with the low point valves on the LD, so we will be keeping an eye on that! 
We are taking our LD out this weekend for it's first trip this season, probably without the trailer as it is just a short shakedown trip to figure out everything we forgot to pack.    :-[

2003 23.5 TK
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #8 –
Lorik,
Have a great time on your shakedown cruise! 

We really like pulling the enclosed trailer with the bike.  I especially appreciate the ability to back up, which I can't do when pulling our 4X4 toad.  We pulled into a RV parking area at White Sands NP last week and got boxed in, front, back, and both sides.  When a rig behind me moved, I backed our Lazy Daze and trailer out and parked elsewhere.  The bike is a great way to explore new areas.  We bought the Butler Map series and explore G1 and G2 roads, as well as PMT's.  Cyndy finds areas where we can camp in the middle of a bunch of great G1/G2 roads and then we spend two or three days exploring all of the roads. These roads wouldn't be as much fun in a car and the expense of riding the bike 200 miles of interesting roads each day is negligible.  Besides that, close encounters with deer and cattle provide such a wholesale response of adrenaline!  Several close calls, but no blood = no foul!

Have fun!
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #9 –
Quote from: Lazy Bones  - 
A prime example of that is the exit drive from the "Olive Pit" in Corning, CA (I-5). I've left grooves in the paving there more than once. Now I approach it at an angle and it works out better.   ;)

Here is the entry to our local SaveMart parking lot.  This guy could have learned a thing or two from you, Steve!  The bus was still there the following morning.

Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #10 –
"The bus was still there the following morning."

If your drive wheels are still on the ground sometimes it might be a good idea to just push ahead, grit your teeth and take the consequence!   :o

But if your'e high centered, the show is over till the tow truck arrives.   :-[
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #11 –
I know of two dump valve damage incidents; no names, but one was a 26.5' RB, the other a 31'. Both have a long rear overhang *and* termination valves at the rear left corner. The 31' miscalculated the "dip" angle of a driveway, and the 26.5' did the same with a dirt low point "ditch". Both incidents resulted in messy clean -ups! "It" does happen!

Midline-placement dump valves are less susceptible to damage, particularly in older models. The factory assures owners of newer TKs with the low-hanging "univalve" that a snag is not likely to happen; maybe, maybe not. If I had this set-up, I would be very conscious of its vulnerability.


As ever, YMMV.
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #12 –
I too find it hard to imagine a situation that would take out the dump valves on our MB, except....

We once saw a class A at Stone Mtn, GA that tried to pull a tight U turn around.  The back wheel wandered off of the road and straight into a steep drainage ditch.  The poor thing had 2 front wheels (non-drive) on the ground,  1 rear wheel in the air and 1 rear wheel floating in the ditch.  The rear of the coach was supported by the frame resting on the ground. 

He wasn't there the next day, but the ground sure was torn up.
2003 MB
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #13 –
I can only speak about dump values on the MB. The only time I have come close to a "hit" was a dump station with a high curb. I nicked the cap exiting. Low-cost replacement. I now watch for curbs and keep my distance.

Ground clearance is excellent. With proper wheel placement, we have taken our rig down some Jeep trails. Sand is to be respected and I always drive the Jeep through to gauge traction. Never stopping and moving the wheels from side to side if you start to bog down will carry you through some short places. This is not advice, just what I do.
Don & Dorothy
Sold our LD in June of 2023

Our boring always non-PC travel blog
Traveling Dorothy
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #14 –
Don, I've enjoyed nosing around on your "Traveling Dorothy" blog and it is clear that you take your Lazy Daze to places where many others would fear to tread. From your pictures, it appears that you once camped on the Vallecitos Creek Road, a sandy wash in the Anza Boreggo Desert (where the Hollywood and Vine signpost is located).  Did you drive the motorhome down that wash or just the Rubicon?  It's good to hear that you haven't hit the valves.

I still have a lot to learn about the capabilities of this rig.
Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #15 –
Quote from: Blueox25  - 

We bought the Butler Map series and explore G1 and G2 roads, as well as PMT's.  Cyndy finds areas where we can camp in the middle of a bunch of great G1/G2 roads and then we spend two or three days exploring all of the roads. These roads wouldn't be as much fun in a car and the expense of riding the bike 200 miles of interesting roads each day is negligible.  Besides that, close encounters with deer and cattle provide such a wholesale response of adrenaline!  Several close calls, but no blood = no foul!

Harold,  we have the Butler maps as well!  We'll have to get together and compare notes one of these days.  We've been camping by motorcycle for quite a while now.  The RV now gives us the ability to take our furry 4-legged friends with us, and serve as a base camp for more 2-wheel explorations.

Heh, I know what you mean about coming across herds of cattle on the remote roads out here.  They tend to scatter in all directions when approached by bikes.  What I have come to refer to as "cow bowling" !  :P
2003 23.5 TK
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #16 –
Lorik,
We are in agreement on all items.  as I have mentioned before, when we are in areas with camper neighbors, we have to get water and power, as opposed to boondocking, for the benefit of the dog.  AC masks outside distractions and keeps him cool.  At the end of a long day of riding, it is mighty nice to get a clean hot shower, a good meal, and bed down in the warm dry bed.  No more tents, I'm afraid.

What do you ride?
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #17 –
Quote from: Lazy Bones  - 
"I'm concerned about the exposed, low dump valves on uneven terrain..."
You know, I've been a member of this forum since 2003 and although I've occasionally read of folks' concern about those dump valves I do not recall a post outlining an actual instance. But, perhaps I missed it... hey members, what about that?  :o
They do get hit and broken . Many more get clipped, without failing
I have helped field replace two damaged dump valves, both on 31' models, probably the result of the 31' model's long overhang. 
A really nasty job, if the tank(s) are full.
I have seen a lot of dump valves with visible damage from being hit but are still functioning.
Spares valves are part of our LD's repair kit, just in case.  Add they have been used, thankfully, on someone else's RV.
I'm surprised no one has reported hitting the dump valves on a late model T/K, they sit very low.

Spare valves can be handy if a valve jams ups, while on the road.
If you can dump and flush, changing a valve isn't too big a job, with the right tools, primarily the right size nut driver or socket.
A 1/4"-drive socket set is very useful for working on this and many other things in the coach.

Larry



Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #18 –
Good idea Larry.
Now I need to order a spare water pump and a spare dump valve.
How about fashioning a steel wheel for each of those skids on the stern?
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #19 –
So far so good on our TK dump valves, however we did determine when parking in Borrego Springs that the exhaust pipe hangs even lower. No damage fortunately, but that was a very cautious departure.

fu
2015TK
fu
2015TK
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #20 –
So now I'm wondering if the ground clearance for the various models and years is listed anywhere?
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #21 –
"How about fashioning a steel wheel for each of those skids on the stern?"

So I have some experience with steel wheels on Skids.  My SOB 1984 itaska 21' which we still have came to me with two steel wheels welded on the skid plates and many times we have scraped the ground.  Although I am in a slightly different situation living on an island and using the Washington State ferry system.  When tides are higher and lower here the bridges on the docks need to be set with more care.  In the old days here the ferry loaders didn't care so the ramp angles some times could be great and you hit bottom even with a 21'.  Now I learned something more recently while riding with the School Bus more recently that driver refused to move the bus till they set the bridge right.  So where am I going with this?  Well I hit bottom many times and the wheels worked great, until one was knocked off by someone backing into a high curb.  After this I only had one and guess what, after that I only hit on bottom on that side with that wheel.  The other side without the wheel did not hit any more.  The wheels stick down 4 inches or more and that makes the difference.  For our 98~MB I have left the Skids unchanged because I think adding wheels would lower it enough to make contact many more times then now.  I have added a ramp storage box in front of the skids that hangs with straps to carry my wheel leveling ramps and they are just slightly lower but will float up out of the way if needed so I have some warning.  So far only once have I made contact in Vacaville at a self carwash where the ramps scraped but not the skids.  I think by adding wheels you lower your contact point and thus more contact.  Perhaps if you remove the skids and add wheels equal to the height of the skids then you may have something but that should be a point of contact you want to avoid.  When those skids scrape they really get your attention and hopefully you learn to avoid that situation again.  Also I agree with Larry that we should all carry in our parts box a extra dump valve, even if you can not install it, you would have it for some one that could install it for you and then you would be back in business so to say...

    Karen~Liam
       98~MB



1998 ~ MB  WanderDaze
previously a 1984 Winnebago itaska- The Road Warrior, before that several VW Buses and before that a 1965 Chrysler Convertible Newport or our 1969 Chrysler La Barron with an ice box and a couple sleeping bags
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #22 –
In addition to the valve, a hacksaw, PVC or ABS cement, and a remotely-inflatable ball or sturdy balloon would make your day better still.  (Plus the usual soap and water, Purell, alcohol rubs, spray-on sterilizer, Cipro-dip, full-body autoclave, etc.)

And the key spec to look for, in addition to ground clearance, is 'departure angle'.

Chip
2000 Front Lounge
Re: Learning to appreciate our Lazy Daze
Reply #23 –
Quote from: Chip Chester link=msg=172304 date=1492802710 "...And the key spec to look for, in addition to ground clearance, is 'departure angle'..." [/quote


Absolutely...angle of ascent and decent is of utmost importance. That and velocity. Taking the driveway at an angle and going slowly seems to solve a lot of the potential for taking some concrete with you and leaving some metal behind.

While the wheels may seem like a good idea, they are certainly going to present a larger/lower target to hit. And with that possibly some potential damage to the skids themselves.

Upon approach, it helps to look for huge gouges in the driveway (if you can) and if not too late, take a different entrance.

Parking lots can often be the bane of RVers everywhere. After a few mishaps you get pretty cautious. I suppose it's all part of appreciating our LD's.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"