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Looking for advice for a first timer
All,

I’m about to purchase a ’05 LD mid-bath. I’ll be flying out next week from the east coast to the west to pick it up.

Some background;

   ⁃   I’ve never owned a RV and never driven one.
   ⁃   I’ve owned 2 Ford E series vans since 2003 (a ’03 and ’13)
   ⁃   Tent camper 40+ years

My basic plan for the drive home is to;

   ⁃   Keep to the interstate and major highways
   ⁃   Keep my speed down, but not so slow I don’t keep up with the flow of traffic
   ⁃   Avoid rush hour traffic when possible
   ⁃   Take the by-pass and not go through major cities, i.e. Dallas, Houston, etc.
   ⁃   Drive ~500 miles per day
   ⁃   Sleep in the RV at Walmart, rest areas, etc when possible

Since I don’t know how to operate any of the RV’s systems, I plan to leave them alone for this trip. The only exception to this will be running the generator and A/C so I can sleep at night. If I happen to stay at campground with electric hookup, I’ll run the A/C from shore power. The RV includes the owners manual, so I’m hoping that will provide me with enough information to get the generator and A/C working.

Packing a few basic tools, flashlight, GPS, and several audiobooks.

Please feel free to chime in with any advice or comments about any of the above.

Thanks,

Mike
Central Florida
Lookin' for a LD
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #1 –
Congratulations Mike! Nice maiden voyage you have planned.

I like your itinerary- freeways are boring but predictable, grades are as good as they can be, help is more accessible. 500 mile days are OK when all is going great, but in my first drives I was more comfortable with ~300 miles to keep my, and the rig's stress level lower, plus I wanted to "play" in my new toy.

I am assuming you will have evidence of the last Ford service, or have it done before you leave? Check the fluids, and those you don't have changed before you leave, write down what oil, coolant, trans fluid is being used in case you need to add. Hopefully it is the Ford spec. How old are the tires, if they are not new watch out for the hot days, give them a siesta! Old tires are potentially dangerous. Also, I would definitely have the brakes checked and serviced.

Day one plan a short one, with some driving in a deserted lot to get used to the rear tailswing. I drive a dually crew cab, so the adjustment for tail swing was a challenge to me.  This was the only thing I found different from my truck. The height of the rig is critical, so measure it, and tape a reminder on the windshield in front of you. Those front upper corners can be a problem. Rear ended drag is something to be aware of, so look at the entrance to parking lots and go easy.

I would use every system I could. The only critical system is the drivetrain, so you may as well find out what and how it all works. 

I would get Coach-Net or AAA premium, or Good Sam road assist for peace of mind.

After a few days you may be inclined to explore some non interstates and non walmarts. The comrade ride in a campground can be very comforting, and lots of free advice. In a Walmart lot I find sleeping difficult as I keep one eye open for security, and listen to the lot sweepers. Maybe this is only me. Indulge if you feel things are going well. It would be a shame to burn all those dinasours without seeing some sights!

Include jumper cables. Hope the starter battery is in good shape, you could test it with a hygrometer or have it tested. Take a sleeping bag.

I would hope the owner will be giving a thorough tutorial at turnover? It should take a couple of hours. If not, perhaps someone in the area is available for a meetup to give you a course. Tell us where you will be.

There will be more advice along here shortly.
Paul
'92 Mid Bath
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #2 –
Paul gives some excellent advice. Rest assured, you won't be alone on your journey! This group has been a friend to me in all my travels and tribulations since flying out to L.A. in Oct '12 from Minnesota to pick up our '99 RB.

(Tires are your biggest issue in my opinion. The typical seller has deferred replacing them (big investment) and will say 'they look good'.

Todd

(In hindsight, our seller had a laundry list of deferred items that had I known about, I'm not sure I would have bought. Or at least lowered my offering price. )

Buying a used RV is a tricky business. When we eventually sell, it will be an open book. I want a clean conscience. Anticipate next  purchase for us will be new and 75% sure a LD.

Todd (and Steve)
'17 Winnebago Minnie Winnie and '13 Honda CRV
(Former '99 RB owners from 2012-2016)
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #3 –
Paul has given you some good advice, were I you, I'd copy it and take it with me.

⁃   Drive ~500 miles per day..."
I understand that you may want to hurry home (prior commitments, etc.) but 500 miles is a fur piece! My average is only 200, but then I'm familiar with my coach and am retired to boot. Perhaps you'd be better off at 250-300, your neck and shoulder muscles will thank you.
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #4 –
Small add, I only used a road emergency kit one time. It was with my new to me LD. I felt it was worth it's weight in gold. Three reflective triangles/cones, flashing lights, hi visibility vest for me.
Paul
'92 Mid Bath
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #5 –
You didn't specify what part of the west coast.   The west coast is a large area.  I know of no part of the west coast going to east coast that doesn't cover some high mountain passes and long, long stretches of 'there is no there there.'  

I didn't have anything to add to what others has shared.   My thoughts ..... make sure the coolant is up to date, fresh oil change, tires up to date (not older then 5 years), air pressure in tires up to date daily (check in morning before moving RV), ear plugs (for staying in Walmart parking lots).   BTW some Cabala's, Cracker Barrels, truck stops  allow ONP.   We have a few apps that might be of interest to you.   RV Parky

 IMHO 300 miles is pushing it.   Unlike a car you can't forget for a second you are driving a 14,000 pd plus medium duty truck.   When those 80,000 pd trucks pass ya you will notice it.  

BTW enjoy your 'new' RV.  I too brought a Lazy Daze without ever owning or driving a RV in my life.   Spent the first  night in a Walmart parking lot outside St George Utah. 
personal fine art photo stuff
TF Mack | Flickr
It's all good .......
2014 Twin King
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #6 –
Some very wise and sage advice.

Might I just add. Oil comes into play in more than the engine and transmission components.

You mentioned that you plan on using the generator to run the AC in the coach. Check its oil. 30 weight, generally.

The owner's manual states, "check the generator oil level prior to each use". The previous owner may have taken care of that for you, but you really can't be sure.

With that, welcome to the group and safe travels.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #7 –
Your purchase sounds a lot like ours.  I live in northern VA.  I flew out after a lot of phone time, photos in email and the like. We finally got things settled on the how to make sure we each weren't being set up.  I got a round trip ticket and was very ready to fly home if the checkout was not as god as the pics.  In retrospect I should have hired someone to check out the RV but I didn't. It all worked out.
I asked for pics of the date code on the tires; they were original to the o7 rv in 2012 but looked good. 
When I got there the previous owner was great. Once we decided to do the deal he coached me on the operation of all the systems. I had never owned a rv so this was a big deal. But it also showed that all the systems worked as advertised.  I took a lot of notes.
I spent my first night at the Pamona KOA so I was close to his home in case I had a problem that could not be solved over the phone.  The next day I camped at Joshua Tree NP.  Still close to the factory in case something went very wrong (read rookie FUBAR).  But also to give me time to learn the things  about the LD.  Things like I the if u drop the power driver's side mirror so you can see the grey water dump valve as u pull up to a gas pump you will be in the perfict spot when the dump valve lines up with the pump station.  That flipping the interior rear view mirror upside down gives you better forward vision and a better view of the antenna of the VW or MINI tailgating you. 
I agree that you should post where you are on at least a couple nights so folks near by can offer to teach you how to use systems. 
I hope your trip is as fun as mine was. You'll Need a Newer Browser to See This Page
Currently: 2008 36' Tiffin Open Road
Previously: 2007 Mid Bath
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #8 –
I sent a pm with my contact info .  Feel free to call. I talk better than I type.
Currently: 2008 36' Tiffin Open Road
Previously: 2007 Mid Bath
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #9 –
Quick responses to the replies so far;


I'm OK with 500/day in my E-350 van. I just drove from Moncton, NB to Tampa, Fl in 3 very long days (1900 miles). I know this isn't a contest, but I need to get back home. Maybe I can add an extra day and cut it down to 400/day.

No idea about the life of the fluids (oil, tranny, etc). The seller is the grandchild of the owner who is now too old to drive. The seller will ask the owner if they remember the last time fluids were changed. If necessary, I'll have them changed before I start out.

Tires are claimed to be brand new, 0 miles. However, I don't have a picture of the date code.  :(

I'll try to fit my jumper cables in my bags along with the stuff I ordered on Amazon tonight, safety triangles, vest and tire pressure gauge. I'll buy a fire extinguisher after I buy the RV.

AAA membership updated for RV towing.

Don't think the seller (grandchild) will be able to show me much about the RV and the grandfather isn't local. I guess it's going to be learn as you go :) John DaCrema has generously provided me with his phone number in case I need something explained to me about the RV systems.

RV Parky downloaded and installed. Lots of good info.

Generator oil, will check and change if needed.

Sorry if I not providing many details about the RV yet, but I'm hold my cards close until after the deal is finished. I had a bad experience about 9 months ago when a RV I agreed to buy and placed a deposit was sold out from under me (yes at least I got the deposit back). The seller made a lame excuse that because I was several states away and someone local came buy with money, etc. It'll all be for the best I hope since that RV wasn't a LD :)

Mike
Central Florida
Lookin' for a LD
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #10 –
Safe travels & good luck with everything.
Lynne
LDy Lulubelle, Green '05 31' TB
Lilly, the 4-Legged Alarm
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #11 –
You may be able to find a 2005 MB manual online. Someone here kindly scanned/photographed their for me. Get an electronic version now to read and re-read on your way out. The manual is gold. 
Paul
'92 Mid Bath
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #12 –
"I'm OK with 500/day in my E-350 van."
----
Driving a car, pickup, or van for any distance is not the same as driving a much larger and heavier vehicle, particularly an unfamiliar one. You will not be able to travel (and shouldn't) at the same speeds as you might in a passenger vehicle, and the dynamics of maneuvering, controlling, and stopping a rig that weighs far more than a van or a pickup or a car, especially in an emergency situation, can be a challenge, particularly when driving the thing is a new experience all around. 

How many miles/hours of per day seat time one is willing and able to expend is certainly up to each individual driver, but "marathon driving" is exhausting, and, IMO, 500 miles at a clip is definitely pushing it. You may feel differently about gobbling up the miles after the first long-haul day, but, even if not, cut yourself some breaks and stop every couple of hours to stretch and walk around; a blood clot can really ruin one's day.

You've received some good suggestions; here are a few more: drive on the "top half" of your tank; even though you said that you would stick to the freeways, gas might not be available when you need it if you let the tank get low. Drive during the day; night driving might be cooler, but overall visibility is much more limited (Oops; didn't see that unlighted overhang in the gas station or the "dip" that knocked off the waste tank termination valves!) and services are less likely to be available. If you get an emergency road service contract, consider Coach Net rather than AAA; check your insurance first to see if emergency road service and towing are already covered. When you park wherever to sleep over, keep the rig nose pointed to a clear exit path; getting boxed in is not fun.  ::)

As ever, YMMV.
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #13 –
AMEN!  After driving 2 Lazy Dazes  and a 44 foot tag axle Tiffin bus 100,000 miles over the last decade, this finally wiser 87 year old sez your post is the BEST advice he's ever read.
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #14 –
SUBAGON:  Good info presented to you by the group.  We bought our LD from the factory in Cal. and drove it home to the east coast.  Based on that, I will add to the previous posts.  From the info you provided regarding your experience with tents and not RVs, I offer the following.  You may not be familiar with the toilet and water systems of the RV.  In your drive across country, staying as much as possible in "free over-nighting", remember that the holding tank capacity of the toilet and water supply are not endless.  If you use the RV toilet, you will need to dump it somewhere.  You generally don't want your black tank sitting around with stuff in it for long periods.  So, when you get the unit, check to see if it includes a sewer hose to connect the blank tank output with the sanitary drain in the ground.  If there is none, you can get one at Walmart and pick up some RV toilet paper while you are there.  Always dump black (toilet) before gray (water from sinks).  The gray water will flush the sewer hose to some extent.  Identify and know the valves externally that dump the black and gray water, which are found on the driver's side of the RV.  Consider staying at a campground with full hookups the night before you get home, so that you can dump all in the morning and arrive home with empty black and gray tanks.

Don't try to take tools or jumper cables with you.  Go to a Walmart and buy the tools and jumper cables in California.  Keep everything in original packages and keep receipts.  If you don't use the tools on the way home, merely return them to your own local Walmart for a refund.  If you do need them, you will have them.  You might want to consider picking up a new fresh water hose and water filter as well.  You will want to carry some fresh water in your tank on the journey home.

If you plan on using the RV frig. on the way home, remember when you stop for the night, the RV must be relatively level.  If the frig. is off, no problem.  You can usually pick up a level and leveling blocks at Walmart as well.  You will need to have propane in the propane tank if you plan on using the frig. on the way back.

The LD may be wider than the vans you have driven.  The advice I received from the factory was "to hug the yellow line" on the way home, until I got the feel of centering the LD in the travel lanes.

Finally, as noted before, be really careful of tail end swing, particularly when at fuel pumps.  Try to use truck stops for gas as they generally offer more room to turn.  Carefully eyeball any gas station before pulling in to make sure you can get out.  If tight, ask someone nearby to spot you as you make any turns.

Best wishes on your "new" LD.  Safe travels. 
2011 MB
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #15 –
Given your time schedule and your inexperience with the systems in an RV, it might be worthwhile to use your new vehicle only as a transport vehicle and sleeping space. Since your new-to-you unit is being sold by someone who has not used the unit, and (it sounds like) does not have much RV experience, there is really no way to tell what oddball things might pop up on the way home. So, possibly the fewer things you expect of the rig, the speedier your trip home will be. If something goes awry, it doesn't sound like you have any built-in time to deal with it.

You can use a good cooler for beverages, snacks and light meals, purchasing a hearty meal when you stop for the night. If you don't need to cook or use the refrigerator, no need to fire up the propane system. Thus you won't need to worry too much about leveling when stopping for the night - at Walmart, or wherever you land. Load up on about ten or so gallons of drinking water and don't bother with possible water system vagaries. Using the water system without a serious cleanse would give me pause. It is so very easy to have something lurking about in that tank that has been sitting for so long. An upset alimentary tract can really put a damper on life for a few days. Best not to run that risk under the circumstances, yah?

Since the weather should be tolerable without heat at this time of year, you should be able to get along without the furnace. If air conditioning is needed for sleeping at night, you will need to run your generator if you stay in a parking lot. This is probably not a really stupendous idea.

Were it me making this cannonball run, I would load up on NUTRITIOUS snacks in a good cooler, drive reasonable amounts of miles/time, pull into someplace for a relaxing evening meal (sit down or take out), and then find a campground where there is an electrical outlet to plug in the air conditioner. Trying to run an unfamiliar generator throughout the night to maintain a cool temperature will be noisy, smelly, possibly dangerous, and not particularly cheap - fuel wise. If the weather is tolerable, thus no need for the air conditioner, planting yourself for the night in a safe parking lot would probably work out just fine.

If you have a decent vacuum bottle, have it filled up with coffee/tea at restaurants/truck stops along the way. Serendipitously, I found out that just about any truck stop will let you fill up to a 40-ounce vacuum bottle with their coffee (they call it a "refill") for something just over a buck. This is a fabulous deal! Just ask as you enter to pay for the gas your unit has just guzzled to make sure they offer this perk.

Assuming that you are positive there are no leaks in the holding tanks, you should be able to use the toilet as needed, and take care of the emptying once you get home and have the time to assess the procedure. Even a three-day run should NOT fill a black tank. If you are worried about same, use facilities along the way as possible, leaving your tank capacity for nighttime use. I would just put a few gallons of water in the black tank, and MAYBE a bit of "stink pretty" juice, and just use it as needed on the way home. If you put some water into the black holding tank to start with, it should be fine to just use it without additional water. If you wish, you could splash/spritz a bit of your bottled water in the bowl after use. Using a urinal would allow you to pour the contents directly into the tank without getting any on the bowl proper.

This unit should bring you many years of happy camping, but will serve you best if you understand the systems - the benefits and the gotcha's. This may take a while, so best leave the education for a time when you are not stressing your mind and body with driving 500 miles a day for three straight days.

Please do let us hear from you along the way, as possible, and definitely when you have arrived home safely! ;->

ADDENDUM:  I went back to read your original note, and see that you wisely had already decided not to try to learn the support systems on such short notice!  Bravo!!!

Virtual hugs,

Judie

*************************************
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #16 –
Ok, a talk with the wife gained me some extra time :) "Get back soon, but don't kill yourself". So my daily mileage might average below 500 miles.

The LD factory is about 12 hours off my route. Is/Are there any pressing reason(s) I should stop by? Any upgrades they offer that would be easier then doing myself? I'm interested in swapping out the tail lights for LED tail lights. I've read a bit about the process and just started reading some of the data at the Techsnoz yahoo group. Where do I get the parts from?

Thanks,
Mike
Central Florida
Lookin' for a LD
 
Re: Looking for advice for a first timer
Reply #17 –
Subagon, my visit to the factory after I bought my LD was much anticipated, but most underwhelming. The support you get here spoils you. My experience- if you are not ordering a new LD, or having them do work on your rig, you are bothering the Mothership. YMMV.

I got an LED tail light kit from Terry Tanner, referenced in the Techsnoz group. Also a search here will find his information I think.  His kit is a good setup that works.

Not sure what upgrades you may want on a 2005! To me that's a new rig.  I had the Mothership install a new house AC unit. I would do this again if I ever needed to. Just allow some extra time, they are so busy be ready to wait.

Update: I just searched for Terry here, he shows up but is not active.  I  contacted him via Techsnoz. that was last year.
Paul
'92 Mid Bath