Canadian RVing July/Aug 2017

Canadian RVing Publications Mail Sales Agreement #40064277 • July/August 2017 • Published and printed in Canada W

Exploring ONTARIO Singing the BLUES in Mississippi

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July/August 2017

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Canadian RVing

July / August 2017

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in this issue Features

In Each Issue

Go RVing in Ontario for its 150th Birthday......... 18 Tour the land of shining waters this summer.

Editorial................................................................ 4

Road Tripping the Blues Across Mississippi......... 20 A musical journey in the cradle of American culture.

Recipe................................................................ 38

Building the Airbnb of the Open Road................ 26 Bringing the sharing model to the world of RVing.

Camping News.................................................... 42

Find the RV That Fits Your Personality............... 30 From the matchmakers at Go RVing Canada.

2016 RV Oops Awards........................................ 36 Tales of RV mishaps and how to avoid them.

Mail Bag............................................................... 6 Money Sense ...................................................... 40 Recall Notices..................................................... 44

Advertising Marketplace........................................................ 49 Classifieds........................................................... 50

Getting Technical Product: ZOOM Concentrated Cleaner................. 8 2017 Grand Design Solitude 384GK................... 10 2017 RAM Power Wagon................................... 14 2017 RAM Launches RV Match Models............. 17

On The Cover Exploring blues history in Mississippi and celebrating Ontario’s 150th birthday.

Photo credit: Go RVing Canada July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

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Canadian RVing

Editor Cover & Graphic Design Test Editor Staff Writer

Theresa Rogers Karen Hannivan Howard Elmer PowerSports Media Hermione Wilson

Contributors

Doug Barnes Larry MacDonald Josephine Matyas

Phyllis Briercliffe Ern Pennell Camping in Ontario Deborah Rankine

Dave Dolejsi Barry Sanderson

Ginny Eichler Bob & Pat Sanderson Go RVing Canada Martin Schell

Martha Knight Bill van der Valk

Jim Lister

Advertising Sales Chris Forbes cforbes@dvtail.com Tel: (905) 707-3516 Fax: (905) 886-6615 Beth Kukkonen bkukkonen@dvtail.com Tel: (905) 707-3506 Fax: (905) 886-6615

Administrative Office P.O. Box 800, 328 Mill Street, Unit 11, Beaverton, ON L0K 1A0 Tel: (705) 426-1419 Fax: (705) 426-1403 Toll-Free: 1-800-999-0819 E-mail: info@canadianrving.com Website: www.canadianrving.com Newsstand Price: $5.25/issue Subscriptions One year: Canadian subscriptions for 2017: $22.00 + GST/HST U.S. subscriptions: $40.00/International: $60.00 (Canadian funds) Canadian RVing is published by the Explorer RV Club. For the year of 2017, Explorer RV Club members pay the annual subscription rate, plus applicable taxes, when they remit their Explorer RV Club membership dues. Individual subscriptions are purchased directly through the office of the Canadian RVing, Subscription Department, P.O. Box 800, Beaverton, ON L0K 1A0.

All submissions to the Canadian RVing are welcome. A self-addressed, stamped envelope should accompany each submission if return of material is required. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of artwork, photographs or manuscripts. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising. The Canadian RVing, its publisher and affiliate companies do not assume responsibility for any claims or statements made by its advertisers or columnists. No reproduction or redistribution, in whole or in part, of this magazine shall take place without prior written consent of the publisher.

2017 Explorer RV Club www.explorer-rvclub.com A division of Wayfarer Insurance Brokers Limited

Canadian publications mail sales agreement #40064277 Postage paid in Toronto ISSN 1484-1339 Published and Printed in Canada Next issue: September/October 2017 Newsstand distribution by Disticor.

Call Toll-Free 1-800-668-7724 for retail outlets.

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editor’s notebook

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

There’s an app for that I’ve always thought of camping as an escape from the daily grind, including the ever-present mobile phone. It really is nice to shut down and avoid contact for a while. Nowadays though, phones go with us everywhere as they are literally an extension of ourselves and more and more campgrounds are installing wifi hotspots. And don’t forget about all the great photos we take and share with them!

Parks Canada knows this and in May launched a new way to connect visitors with Canada’s natural and cultural treasures: a mobile app.

The new app provides visitors with the information and resources they need to plan their visit and discover breathtaking locations, including hidden gems, and other unique and memorable experiences at national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas.

Visitors can share their experiences on social media and use fun and interactive themed photo-filters activated by their smartphone GPS when they arrive at one of Parks Canada’s many destinations. There is also detailed information on Parks Canada places, tips on how to prepare for a visit, and interactive maps. Visitors can even find out about events planned for 2017 all across the country.

You can download the app for free from iTunes or Google Play.

I must admit, the app does look helpful and fun. I’m always a late adopter of technology. Maybe I will need to bring my phone along this summer after all!

YAre you on Twitter? Tag us in your #Canada150 photos @ExplorerRV!

Theresa Rogers trogers@dvtail.com

Follow us on

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

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Canadian RVing Publications Mail Sales Agreement #40064277 • July/August 2017 • Published and printed in Canada W

Exploring ONTARIO Singing the BLUES in Mississippi

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The place for your comments, questions, and hints.

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Spring Maintenance I am a relatively new RV owner with a 29’ travel trailer. We use it predominantly in the lower half of Ontario, so it doesn’t get a lot of mileage. I’d like to know: 1) Generally, how often do you suggest the brakes be checked by a mechanic?

2) Same question about bearings and lubrication.

3) As it turned out, we were not able to use the trailer at all last year.

Should the brakes automatically be checked? Any other items I should be sure to check after a period of inactivity?

Regards, Franco Brunato Howard Elmer replies: Mr. Brunato, It’s always refreshing to have a reader be concerned with preventative maintenance rather than being surprised when the wheels fall off. As to the question of trailer brakes, the only really wearing portion of the brake system is the pads that contact the rotor. Other parts can wear and fail but the pads are the primary concern and these wear only by being used. So, knowing how many kilometers you’ve towed since new (or last replaced) is your indicator as to whether they need service. Check the trailer manufacturer’s website for brake specs (this should also tell you whether you have “sealed bearings” which require no service) on your trailer and call your dealer for his opinion of average 6

mail bag DYour Letters

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

brake pad life and then write it on the wall somewhere with the date.

Long periods of inactivity rarely result in the need for service past the occasional need for lubrication. Everything does rust regardless of movement. As an example, I have a fourplace snowmobile trailer that just doesn’t get a lot of use - I haven’t even looked at the brakes in six years.

I just spray them down with WD40 and silicon once in the summer and make sure they feel OK come winter.

You can never go wrong with an annual cleanup and lube on the components of the brake system though, and you can do much of this yourself if you choose too. If not, any dealer would give the brakes a onceover for a nominal cost. Other than this, every time you tow, you have a chance to “feel” how the brakes are holding up, specifically by using the manual brake actuator on your trailer brake controller. On a level surface accelerate to just 10 km/h and use only the trailer brake controller to stop the truck and trailer. This is the same way you set the gain on the controller.

In this case, however, what you are doing is feeling out how well the brakes are stopping the rig at whatever your normal setting is. By doing this regularly you will feel if the brakes are starting to wear as the stopping will become less aggressive. This, of course, is just a quick and dirty way of keeping an eye on the brake pad wear but it does work.

Hope that helps.

Happy Trails!

reading each issue from page to page.

I have a question regarding RV covers that I hope you are able to print in your next edition with your opinions.

We recently purchased our second fifth wheel and I would like to protect it with an RV cover.

While researching RV covers, there are myriad of construction materials, options etc. that are available. I was hoping for an opinion if they are even a good idea and if so, what the best material, options, manufacturers etc. would be. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Sven Christensen

Kirk Thomson, Can-Am RV Centre replies: Mr. Christensen, We don’t do a lot of covers but we have used the ADCO and CalMark a lot and they are pretty good. Most of the covers will last you around four to six years depending on the climate. Cheap ones will only last two years.

It’s important that it can breathe to keep it from developing mold and mildew underneath.

Making sure it is well secured is very, very important. It should not be able to flap in the wind or this will cause damage and scratches. Did I mention it’s really important to secure it very well?!

Here are some interesting articles: http://calmarkcovers.com/ http://blog.

Cover Up glrv.com/how-to-buy-a-cover-forI have been a subscriber for some your-rv time now and thoroughly enjoy Hope this helps a bit.

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

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mail bag Repair Recommendation Recently, the tailpipe on my Class A motorhome began breaking apart.

After a few calls it was recommended to drop into Floyd’s Inc. in Emporia, KS. What a wonderful experience to say the least.

It took Josh one hour to remove and manufacture a four-foot section with bends, and install to a credible conclusion.

I certainly would recommend this facility to anyone in the area requiring a repair.

Floyd’s Inc. 1221 Industrial Rd. Emporia, KS (620) 342-7713

PRODUCT

ZOOM

Concentrated Cleaner

Gordy Hildreth Newmarket, ON Correction In our May/June 2017 issue, some incorrect numbers appeared in a review of the 2017 Keystone Avalanche 320RS, pages 12-14. The trailer length is 35 feet, not 25 feet.

The tires are on 16-inch rims, not 15-inch. We regret the errors.

Send your letters to: Mail Bag, c/o Canadian RVing, P.O. Box 800, Beaverton, ON L0K 1A0 or e-mail to: mailbag@canadianrving.com.

Please include your name and location (city/town, province/state).

Due to the volume of mail we receive, any mail that doesn’t include the proper identification might not be answered. A telephone number is optional on e-mail queries but should be included with letters sent through regular post or by fax.Thank you. Letters may be edited for space and/or content.

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Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

ZOOM Concentrated Cleaner from Nanotech Environmental, a Canadian company, is a powerful dirt release cleanser which quickly loosens dirt, mildew, and other gunk from almost any outdoor surface. It releases dirt without the need for heavy scrubbing. In most cleaning situations, all that is required is a garden hose or power washer, a sprayer to mix and apply the concentrate and a soft brush or wash mitt to lightly scrub the surface.

Simply mix with water to desired ratio, spray it on the dirty surface, allow to soak 30 seconds to a minute, lightly scrub with the soft brush, or mitt, then rinse with water.

ZOOM concentrate can be mixed in a small spray bottle for small jobs, or for larger jobs and general use, a weed sprayer works very well. ZOOM can be safely stored in the sprayer for an extended period of time.

Zoom is biodegradable and safe for the environment.

It is available in a ready-to-use spray bottle or in concentrated form.

Visit their website for more information at www.getnano.ca.

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July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

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2017 Grand Design

SOLITUDE 384GK

By Howard J. Elmer

T

he RV industry is in a continual state of change.

The market demands it and the builders themselves – when they identify new trends – move quickly to capitalize on them. In short, this explains a company like Grand Design RV. Formed by three veteran RV industry executives in 2012, they identified a trend and moved quickly to tap into it. Quality. Now, I know, every company talks about quality being a core component of its business, but admittedly, some do it better than others.

In the case of Grand Design, the proof is in its ever-increasing sales and the quality control process followed. According to its brochures, a trailer coming off the assembly line undergoes a comprehensive final 10

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

inspection, as you’d expect. However, this is where its system differs from most. Inspected units move on to a separate facility where they are again subject to a 150-point inspection. This second pre-delivery inspection catches and fixes any problems before the unit is released to dealers.

The reason I’m highlighting this marketing pitch from Grand Design is that I know one of the most irritating things owners can find in their brand-new trailer are small cosmetic flaws. It’s these little surface issues that drive owners nuts. Why? Because they feel foolish for complaining about minor rips, scrapes and blemishes while at the same time seething about how much they paid. It’s simple human nature to want quality for your money.

So, having read this lofty promo before taking the Grand Design Solitude out for my test, I resolved to find any imperfections that might have been overlooked at the factory. I tried and I didn’t find a thing. Kudos.

Grand Design builds a variety of trailers, however, the Solitude fifth wheel I took out was definitely of the luxury full-timer variety. At 40’7” in length, it’s got “take me south for the winter” written all over it.

The price and the build quality also reflect that status.

This Solitude starts with a drop-frame chassis that supports a wide-body (101-inches) and a very tall trailer.

Its three slideouts expand the main living and kitchen area with two of those slides being opposing. The third pulls the head of the bed in the master out further and interestingly also moves the sink in the bathroom with it. For running gear, the Solitude uses a Trailair RotaFlex pin box; Equa-Flex suspension above HD axles with self-adjusting brakes and 16-inch aluminium wheels. This combination creates the most room for people inside and for cargo in the basement alike. Wall construction is aluminium and the exterior sidewalls carry a high-gloss gel coat. You can walk on the roof and the tinted windows are frameless. The result of these features is an overall stylish, sleek and modern look.

A nice feature – once you arrive at your site – is the deployment of the six-point hydraulic levelling system that will find level ground automatically.

Inside, the layout of the 384GK is traditional with a rear salon, midship kitchen and master bedroom in the nose. Where it differs from other trailers is in the quality and quantity of the fixtures. The focal point of the space is the long kitchen island that is also the site for the dual sinks and gooseneck faucet. Nothing

extraordinary about this setup – but then look above and you’ll see the intricate woodwork on the ceiling and the hanging light fixtures that illuminate the workspace below. (There are multiple light fixtures throughout the trailer that add interest and accent various areas.)

Turning toward the window from the island, there is a three-burner stainless steel stove (with 22-inch oven) set in the centre of another long counter space with real tile as a backsplash. Above it is the vent hood and built-in convection microwave. There is no lack of prep space in this kitchen. And of course, below all those counters are drawers and cupboards, as well as above. One of these cupboard spaces is prepped to accept a dishwasher if that’s your wish. Another feature of this kitchen is a full-size hard-door pantry just beside the stainless steel 18 cu-ft. refrigerator with pull-out freezer on the bottom.

The dining space consists of a freestanding hardwood table with two elegant upholstered chairs and two foldable ones – a nice space saving innovation. The table is anchored just below a huge picture window that also opens. This lights up the eating and kitchen area and will be a joy to sit and eat at.

The salon is focused on a floor to ceiling wall unit that houses the big-screen LED TV just above the fireplace that incorporates an electric heater. Above are glassed cupboards for A/V storage and accessories.

These include HDMI stereo/CD/DVD/with app controls. This trailer also has exterior speakers and is prepped with cable/antenna and satellite plug-ins.

Seating, as you’d expect, is top-notch with twin theatre recliners across from the TV. These seats are powered, lit by LED and have heat and massage July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

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functions. Guests will have to make do on the nonheated, three-seat leather upholstered couch at the rear of the trailer. This couch also doubles as a tri-fold hide-a-bed, for those sometimes overnight guests.

The master bedroom is large enough to almost be called a sitting room and it has a couple of neat features like a large walk-in closet set in the nose of trailer. Because of the weird shape of this space this is a great use, however, Grand Design had to go beyond the normal by fitting it with curved shelves and a sloped ceiling. Double mirrored doors finish this feature nicely. The bed is a 70x80-inch king with a

Specifications Grand Design Solitude 384GK GVWR: ................................................ 16,000 lb Dry Weight: ........................................ 13,450 lb Length: ................................................. 40’7” Height: ................................................. 13’5” Fresh Water: ....................................... 54 gal Grey Water: ........................................ 100 gal Black Water: ....................................... 50 gal Base Price: ........................................... $78,530 My test unit also included: Solitude Residential Living Package, the Peace of Mind Package and several other options that brought the as-tested price to $103,899.

Test unit supplied courtesy of Can-Am RV Centre, London, ON. 12

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

full headboard and ample access on both sides. It has under-bed storage and a pull-out ottoman feature that makes a nice spot to sit and pull your socks up.

The second TV in the bedroom is mounted over a built-in residential-style dresser. Hard pocket doors maximize space from the bathroom to the bedroom and the corridor.

The bath itself is large, allowed by the slideout that carries the sink and vanity with it. The woodwork and features like the ceramic sink make this an attractive space. The shower is a large one-piece fibreglass shell with built-in seat and sliding glass door. It’s supplied by a 12-gallon water heater. The overhead skylight brightens the shower and adds height. The toilet is real porcelain.

A trailer like this has to be four-season capable.

It’s insulated in the roof, walls and floor where it carries three layers adding up to an R-value of 45. For heat, the trailer comes with a 35K BTU high-output furnace for the living space and heated tanks and storage protected by a fully enclosed underbelly. Even the low-point water drains are enclosed and heated.

The air conditioning consists of two “Stealth” 15K BTU air conditioners that use an advance racetrack ducting that provides 23 per cent more airflow than competitors and is two times quieter. It was a little early in the year for me to check the AC, but the heat worked fine.

As for towing, this is a big trailer, there’s no getting away from that. It rolls well and the standard Trailair pinbox sucks up a lot of the push/pull and hobbyhorseing you’d get without it. I even backed into some tight laneways and found with the position of the pin you can easily go past 90 degrees while backing. You just have to go slow and remember that with a trailer this long you also have to consider some tail-swing on the blind side. To that end, it can be purchased with a prepped rear camera setup. With a topped out weight of 16,000 lb, you’ll also want to match your tow vehicle carefully. My 3500 Ram dually was in fact a bit of overkill but on the other hand, it felt really good.

Most 2500 trucks will handle this trailer and a diesel engine will supply the torque you’ll want on the long hills. Of course, I always say if you’re headed south you’re just heading downhill anyway, right?

If you’re in the market for that luxury gone-allwinter fifth wheel you’ll want to have a look at this Grand Design product.

Howard J. Elmer of PowerSports Media Services is a Canadian automotive journalist, truck writer and RVing specialist.

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

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2017 Ram Power Wagon

By Howard J. Elmer

W

hen it comes to tow vehicles, RVers have a healthy market full of choices. One of those pickups – well suited for trailer-towing duty – also has another purpose as the most competent off-road truck on the market. You might say it has a dual personality. I recently had a look at this new truck out in the Nevada desert. Describing the Ram Power Wagon as “new” is peculiar, even though the 2017 model is just that. This truck’s basic design is more than 70 years old.

The original Power Wagon is a product of the Second World War. More than 255,000 of these ¾-ton 4x4 trucks saw service navigating European and Pacific battlefields. After the war, Dodge engineers used this truck as the basis for their civilian Power Wagon models. Introduced in 1946 with a new cab and a purpose-built eight-foot cargo box, it rode on a 126inch wheelbase chassis and featured a 230 cubic-inch flat head six-cylinder engine, a two-speed transfer case, a four-speed transmission and also had power take-off (PTO) capability to operate auxiliary equipment. It was produced (with very little change) until 1968 when 14

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

new light-duty truck safety regulations in the United States made the almost 30-year old cab obsolete, though production for export continued for almost another decade. Of note for collectors, in 1966 a short-lived Crew Cab model was added. Those are now rare.

Fast forward to 2005 at Chrysler’s Chelsea proving grounds in Michigan where an earthen presentation podium blows apart to reveal a new Dodge Ram Power Wagon. It roared out onto the presentation carpet covered in dirt and sporting a name that hadn’t been riveted to a Dodge fender in more than 25 years. This was the rebirth of the modern Power Wagon. Since then it has dropped the Dodge name – it’s now part of the Ram standalone brand – but the purpose of this HD truck remains the same – go where no other factorybuilt truck dares.

A Power Wagon starts with a stock 2500 series HD frame. Ram then adds locking front and rear differentials, two-speed transfer case, an electronically disconnecting sway bar, high-pressure Bilstein monotube shocks, heavy front and rear springs, skid plates and underbody

PROTECTING YOUR PASSION SINCE 1978

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

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protection, special 33-inch off-road tires, an integrated 12,000-pound electric winch and, of course, increased ride height.

For 2017, the standard engine is a 6.4L V8 Hemi that makes 410 hp and a peak torque of 429 lb-ft. A unique feature of this engine is an electronic calibration that softens the throttle response when in 4WD-low, yet raises the idle speed by 100rpm to increase low-end torque.

Driving this truck through the Nevada desert inspired an almost reckless confidence in my ability to climb obstacles that would make a goat sweat. Even through the soft sand, the aggressive tire treads floated the truck, though that’s when I appreciated the 6.4L’s torque that churned out of these traps. Sharp rises and deep gulleys didn’t impede the truck either; its height (14.3-inches of clearance) and steep approach (33.6 degrees) and departure (26.2 degrees) angles prevented hang-ups.

“ultimate off-road truck” claim with a new exterior design

locking includes the RamBox cargo management system and tailgate. Power seats, heated wheel, backup camera, dual-zone HVAC, nine Alpine speakers and satellite with Bluetooth are other options. A spray-in bedliner, LED bed lighting, front and rear park-assist system, poweradjustable pedals and remote start are also available.

The 2017 Ram Power Wagon shows off its “ultimate off-road truck” claim with a new exterior design that incorporates styling cues found in the Ram 1500 Rebel.

This starts with a prominent silver “RAM” letter badge.

Surrounded by a blacked-out grille, it’s bookended by bifunctional projector headlamps with LED marker lights.

The domed vent-stamped hood sports a glossy black graphic.

In fact, the entire truck shows very little chrome.

Instead, primary colour schemes are set off with front and rear bumpers that are matte-coloured and powder coated. The exception is the 17-inch forged, multisurface aluminum wheels with silver outer and matte black inners.

The blacked-out theme continues on the flanks, where wheel-arch moldings, badges, mirrors and lower body panels create a distinctive appearance. At the rear, a 324-point bold original font “RAM,” is stamped into the tailgate with blacked-out lettering. A black “Power Wagon” decal crosses the bottom of the tailgate. With this package, there will be no question of what you’re driving.

From what I saw in Nevada, today’s Power Wagon is also following the current pickup trend of packing more and more upscale content into trucks. That’s fine for many buyers, however it should be noted for those that value the ability more than the convenience aspects of the truck, Ram is also offering the Power Wagon as a base Tradesman Crew Cab 4x4 model. Although this option does not include the same interior and exterior design elements, it does include the same unique offroad equipment, including the winch, lockers, larger tires, electronic disconnecting sway bar, suspension and under-body armour. Monotone paint covers this package. The grille-surround and inserts are from the Tradesman model and are coloured black as are the headlamp filler panels and wheel flares.

The 2017 Power Wagon pricing starts at $58,945.

A leather and luxury option package can be added for $4,995. These trucks are available at Canadian dealers now.

Then again, that’s why it does have an integrated frontmounted winch and massive tow hooks.

After pushing the truck through worsening dry washes, I didn’t think I could find a spot that would get it stuck. I’m sure there was one but I never did find it.

However, a word of caution, don’t drive it fast! Unlike the Ford Raptor which is designed to cover rough terrain quickly, the suspension on the Power Wagon is set up for slow and steady. At speed it’s rough but then, speed is not its purpose. This stiff setup lets it climb steep, jumbled rocks with surefooted ease while carrying a crew and substantial payload. This is why it’s a favourite of forestry and fire services throughout North America.

It features a payload of 1,510 lb. and a tow rating of 10,030 lb.

During our off-road drive (in a public-lands designated off-roading area of the desert), the only other vehicles we met were heavily modified Jeeps and ATVs. It’s a compliment to the Power Wagon’s engineering that it can keep up with this company off-road, yet at the end of the dusty day it drives home, comfortably, on the highway.

While the core engineering of this truck has changed little over the years, there are new esthetics and comfort features.

For instance, a selection of standard and optional Howard J. Elmer of PowerSports Media Services is a equipment includes power folding mirrors and power Canadian automotive journalist, truck writer and RVing rear-sliding window with defrost. One-touch, central specialist.

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Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

2017 Ram Launches RV Match Models

By Howard J. Elmer

R

am has taken notice of just how many RVers buy its trucks for towing. As a nod to these buyers, the company has come up with a novel paint option for 2017 that should make for a very striking rolling impression.

The first combination to be offered is RV Match Brown and it’s meant to compliment RV paint and body graphics. The lower-body two-tone paint closely matching a shade of brown that is frequently used in the exterior design of RV travel trailers and fifth wheels.

Found on the Ram Laramie Longhorn editions, this perk will add to the design flair RVers can achieve with their tow vehicles.

RV Match Brown will also be available as a twotone combination with nine exterior colours including Black Forest Green, Bright Silver, Bright White, Brilliant Black Crystal, Delmonico Red, Maximum Steel, Pearl White, and True Blue.

These colours will complement Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorns equipped with 20-inch polished aluminium wheels with brown coloured pockets. Ram 2500 and 3500 (SRW) will also be available with these colours, however, they will roll on 18-inch polished aluminium wheels – 20’s are optional. Ram 3500 duallies get polished silver aluminium wheels with the Laramie Longhorn edition-badged centre caps.

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July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

17

Hope Bay Campground

Go RVing in Ontario for its 150th Birthday

By Camping in Ontario

18

I

t is an exciting year to travel in Canada. As we celebrate our 150th birthday, there are myriad activities at every stop on the road, for every traveller (http://canada.pch.gc.ca).

If you really want to celebrate, then Ontario is your must-stop destination this year, as it is also celebrating its 150th year as a province (www.ontario.ca/page/ontario150). One can almost hear the celebratory cries ring out as one crosses the border!

Ontario’s private campgrounds are also celebrating with special activities planned for Canada’s 150th birthday. Take in the fireworks while you sit by your campfire roasting marshmallows for s’mores. Get up to the sound of birds and enjoy a pancake breakfast.

Feast on Ontario sweet corn during a roast. Take the little ones for face painting and join in parades! All these activities and more are planned. For a full list of events at private campgrounds, go to www.campinginontario.ca/events.

The size of the camping industry in Ontario is massive. A recent national study indicates that there are 1,144 campgrounds – provincial, municipal and private – in Ontario. This represents 154,604 sites, with 51,235 seasonal sites and 16,960 overnight sites represented by Camping In Ontario campgrounds alone! This means that you will find the perfect RV site to fit your needs.

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

Whether you are seeking solitude in the wilderness, enjoying a family reunion or simply getting away for a romantic adventure, Camping In Ontario is the best resource for information on Ontario campgrounds.

You will find campgrounds that are more rustic and focused on nature with others boasting a multitude of features, planned activities and resort amenities. If you like adventure, there are many campgrounds that offer activities such as zip-lining, water parks, horseback riding, kayaking, hiking, biking, golfing and mini golf, to name a few among a long list.

The majority of Ontario’s campgrounds are petfriendly, and in fact, many have off-leash areas, pet washing stations and pet events. After all, your pet companion is part of your family and should not have to stay home during your family vacation.

With more than 250,000 lakes located in Ontario, it is no surprise that there are a tremendous number of water activities to enhance your RV camping experience. Campgrounds may include marinas or have watercrafts for rent. Fishing is also a favourite among Ontario campers, with more than 154 species of freshwater fish available for all levels of anglers. Of course, swimming on those hot summer days is always a treat, too. When the weather isn’t as perfect as you would like for swimming in a lake or river, you could always enjoy the indoor pool you can find at some campgrounds.

And how about those beaches? There are more than 20 Blue Flag beaches or marinas in Ontario located all across the province. Blue Flag is a world-renowned eco-certification for beaches and marinas. When you see a Blue Flag, you can expect a beach or marina to be clean and accessible, have great water quality and meet high safety standards.

Finding the perfect RV site for you and your needs is quite easy. You can search online by the type of site, what types of amenities you require and what part of the province you would like to visit at www. campinginontario.ca/campgrounds. Perhaps you are thinking about getting away for a long weekend and really just want to find an available site. This is also a very simple search tool. To find vacancy reports for overnight camping or seasonal camping, simply go to www.campinginontario.ca/Vacancies and you can still use the same search parameters to find a site that meets your requirements.

There are many other exciting special offers and resources on the www.campinginontario.ca website as well. If you are new to RVing, you can find great information on types of RVs, videos on how to select

drive or set up an RV, and many others to help you become an RVing expert.

Ontario may quickly become your favourite RVing destination. Come out this 2017 season and experience all it has to offer, along with joining in the 150th birthday celebrations for both Ontario and Canada. Book early to avoid disappointment during this celebratory year and make memories to last a lifetime.

Double M RV Resort & Campground

Ontario Facts • Temperatures soar above 30 C in summer and to below -40 C in winter.

• Covers more than 1 million km2.

• Has two time zones.

• Has the world’s largest freshwater island, Manitoulin Island, in Georgian Bay. • Has more than 250,000 lakes.

• The Great Lakes hold one-fifth of the world’s fresh surface water.

• 70 million hectares – or 66% of Ontario’s land – is classified as forested land.

• Ontario is split into 15 tourism regions, each with their own characteristics.

• Official flower is the Trillium.

• Official tree is the Eastern White Pine.

• Official bird is the Common Loon.

Sources: www.ontario.ca/page/about-ontario and www.ontariotravel.net/en/plan/tools-and-tips/factsabout-ontario July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

19

Road Tripping the BLUES Across Mississippi

By Josephine Matyas

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here’s a reason the U.S. National Park Service called Mississippi “the cradle of American culture.” The oft-overlooked state is a fascinating mix of history, music and literature, especially in the cotton-growing Delta region – the part of the state hemmed in by the Mississippi and Yazoo rivers.

We’ve travelled back and forth across Mississippi, researching our upcoming travel book on the blues, a form of roots music that was born and grew in American soil. Since the 1960s, the blues has enjoyed a growing following, making Mississippi the perfect place for a music-themed road trip. The blues has been Mississippi’s gift to the world; music that became the bedrock for rock and roll, soul, Motown, R&B and much of 20th-century popular music across the planet.

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

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As legendary Chicago bluesman Willie Dixon famously observed, “Blues is the roots, the rest is the fruits.”

Whether you are a blues aficionado or just want to experience some soul-stirring sounds, Mississippi is filled with musical stops. Seek out Mississippi Blues Trail markers that tell the story of bluesmen and women like B.B. King, Bessie Smith, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf, powerhouse talents who define the blues. (www.MSBluesTrail.org) GATEWAY TO THE BLUES MUSEUM TUNICA www.tunicatravel.com The outstanding Gateway to the Blues Museum is housed in an old wooden train station, relocated from a nearby rail crossing. The displays are enriched with a 100-year loan of priceless memorabilia from a local casino, creating multimedia and information-packed galleries on the Mississippi music experience.

Dozens of instruments – some signed by famous blues artists like Eric Clapton – W.C. Handy’s cornet, and even the copy of the death certificate for Robert Johnson are tastes of the massive collection.

Refuel: Just a few miles south – off Old Highway 61 – is The Hollywood Café (“home of the fried dill pickle”), the atmospheric diner made famous in Marc Cohn’s iconic song, Walking In Memphis.

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Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

DELTA BLUES MUSEUM CLARKSDALE www.deltabluesmuseum.org Like many great art forms, the blues is shrouded in myth and lore, especially the story of Robert Johnson’s pact with the devil, where he allegedly sold his soul for mastery of the guitar. The towering Crossroads sign created of guitar shapes marks the intersection of Highways 61 and 49.

The downtown Delta Blues Museum has photos, instruments, stage wear, sheet music and recordings from seminal blues artists like Charley Patton, Big Jack Johnson and Pinetop Perkins. A highlight is the reconstruction of the original one-room sharecropper’s shack where young McKinley Morganfield – aka Muddy Waters – lived on nearby Stovall Plantation.

There are many places to hear live music in Clarksdale. Red’s Lounge is one of the last authentic “juke joints” with live blues, but don’t expect fancy.

Red’s is about blues music, not the decor. Ground Zero Blues Club is known for live music as well as for its co-owner, actor and Delta resident Morgan Freeman.

For books, music and blues memorabilia, stop in at Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art and chat with owner Roger Stolle, a northerner who moved to Clarksdale on a mission to preserve the Delta blues traditions.

Refuel: Yazoo Pass is one of the town’s more hip downtown bistros. Right at The Crossroads, Abe’s BarB-Q advertises “swine dining” and authentic barbecue.

GRAMMY MUSEUM MISSISSIPPI CLEVELAND www.grammymuseumms.org With the recognition of Mississippi as the birthplace of American music, it made sense for GRAMMY to open its second location in the state. The museum’s Mississippi Gallery uses multimedia technology to trace the connections between generations of musicians and song forms. There are hundreds of original artifacts like Willie Dixon’s passport, Sonny Boy Williamson II’s harmonica and “Pop” Staples’ Fender Jazzmaster guitar.

When the late blues guitarist B.B. King talked about Dockery Farms, just a few miles outside Cleveland, he suggested, “You might say it all started right here.” At the height of the cotton era, Dockery was a massive plantation and home to blues giants like Charley Patton, Son House and Howlin’ Wolf. Plantation workers taught each other their music at Dockery, McPhail'sOfHarriston_Layout 5/8/14 9:49 AM Page 1 creating new sounds and1styles.

Refuel: The Senator’s Place for authentic Southern

soul food like “meat and three.”

Stay overnight: Leroy Percy State Park is the state’s oldest park. Its 16 sites all have water, sewer and electrical hook-ups, although the rural location is out of cell phone range.

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1927 FLOOD MUSEUM GREENVILLE www.visitgreenville.org To really understand the history and geography of the Delta – and how it contributed to the blues – learn about how the devastating Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 impacted the economy, landscape and the lives of Mississippians.

There is a saying: “The people of the Delta fear God and the Mississippi.” The small 1927 Flood Museum shows how the disaster transformed the life and circumstances of that land and the people who farmed it. Facing insurmountable losses, many sharecroppers and field workers – some also part-time musicians – abandoned the Delta, moving north to larger cities, taking the music of the blues with them and spreading it across the country.

Stay overnight: Warfield Point Park is a short drive from town, with quiet, developed sites right on the shores of the Mississippi River.

B.B. KING MUSEUM AND DELTA INTERPRETIVE CENTER INDIANOLA www.bbkingmuseum.org The B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center is one of the best multimedia music museums you will ever find. Impressively stocked with Riley B. King’s personal reflections and archival material, the museum is built onto an old cotton gin where King worked 24

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

driving tractors before becoming one of the world’s most beloved blues masters. This is a text- and artifactheavy museum, including B.B.’s personal papers, video clips, his trademark 1960 Gibson 355 (“Lucille”) and a recreation of his home studio and office.

Refuel: Across the street from the museum, The Blue Biscuit hosts live blues and features local cuisine, including delicious pulled pork.

DELTA BLUES LEGEND TOURS GREENWOOD www.deltablueslegendtours.com It would be hard to find a more authentic or personable tour guide than Sylvester Hoover of Baptist Town, the oldest African-American community in Greenwood and “a melting pot of the Delta.”

At one time, Greenwood was known as the “Cotton Capital of the World” drawing travelling blues musicians who made a living busking on street corners for tips and in the juke joints and house parties where plantation workers let off steam on a Saturday night. Hoover’s story-rich driving tour takes visitors to all three supposed gravesites of Robert Johnson, the site at Three Forks where he was poisoned and through the historic Baptist Town neighbourhood.

Stay overnight: Although not a campground, the renovated sharecroppers’ shacks at Tallahatchie Flats make unique stays in the Delta countryside.

Little Zion M.B. Church – thought to be the actual burial site of Robert Johnson – is just down the road.

ELVIS PRESLEY BIRTHPLACE TUPELO www.elvispresleybirthplace.com The unpretentious Elvis Presley Birthplace museum gives Graceland a run for its money.

Tour the actual two-room, shotgun-style house where Elvis was born during the Great Depression and sit in the wooden pews of the Pentecostal church where the family worshipped. This is where Elvis learned to sing, play guitar and stoke his passion for gospel music, although he was influenced by and embraced the blues, spawning rock and roll. A state-of-the-art museum showcases memorabilia and audio-visual clips from boyhood friends and Tupelo residents.

Downtown, the historic Tupelo Hardware is where Gladys Presley and her young son came to buy a birthday present. Elvis wanted a bicycle but settled for his first guitar, making history.

Tupelo has a self-guided driving tour of the local spots that played a role in Elvis’ formative years. Markers give information on the significance of statues, schools, church, stores and a swimming hole.

Refuel: Elvis’ regular booth inside Johnnie’s Drive-In has not changed in decades. This is where the young

teen went after school to order his regular cheeseburger with RC Cola and talk comics and music with friends.

Writer Josephine Matyas and writer/musician Craig Jones travelled across the U.S. southern states in a quest to explore the roots of American music. Their book – A Travel Guide to the Blues – will be published by Quarry Press in early 2018.

They wander with their dog, Eleanor Rigby, in a Class B Roadtrek 210. Learn more at www.travelswithrigby.com.

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

25

Airbnb

Building the of the Open Road

IT’S NEVER BEEN EASIER OR MORE AFFORDABLE TO ANSWER THE CALL OF THE OPEN ROAD

By Dave Dolejsi

26

R

aise your hand if you have caught yourself on occasion dreaming about what it would be like to hit the road with your family in an RV – exploring those spectacular corners of this incredibly rich and diverse country, following your heart, not a schedule, and stopping where you like, to add to your memories. Like most however, you then dutifully file this away under “too expensive” and go about your regular backyard summer plans.

The sharing economy has taken hold of consumers and it has revolutionized our perceptions of what kind of lives we can lead. Experiences that we once thought were out of reach due to expense, are now fully within our grasp, and two entrepreneurs from Ottawa have built Canada’s first RV rental marketplace to take us there.

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

Friends Mike McNaught and Will Thompson shared more than a love of the outdoors and RVs. McNaught is a police officer from Ottawa who had been injured while making an arrest. Thompson was a Canadian Armed Forces reservist who had completed a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Both men were having difficulties adjusting to their situations.

McNaught recognized that there were thousands of RVs sitting idle for months at a time. An RV owner himself, he had actually been renting out his own vehicle privately for several years. While this had been lucrative, (earning $15K in his first year alone), there were difficulties in making the right match-ups and qualifying renters. From the renter’s side, there was the issue of insurance and they too, needed to be assured of what they were renting.

“I loved sharing my RV with others who shared my passion for the outdoors. I found it a little stressful however, not knowing whether I was properly insured or whether my renters were qualified drivers,” says McNaught.

Thompson and McNaught set to work, creating RVezy as a platform that would give RV owners the chance to make money from their investment during that downtime by connecting them to aspiring vacationers who always dreamed of taking that family vacation in a comfortable RV. For some, an RV is the kind of vehicle that is just too big of an investment to own.

The key to success would be to make the entire experience seamless, safe, controlled and ultimately, easy.

As McNaught points out, “The sharing economy has made it so easy to rent a house, a car or book a vacation. I was asking myself why it was not easy to rent an RV. I knew from my personal experience that we needed to leverage the power of the sharing economy and technology to create an easy-to-use platform for both owners and renters.”

Building on the Airbnb sharing model, RV owners and prospective renters are encouraged to visit www.

RVezy.com where owners can then follow simple steps to upload their information and their rig as inventory that is available. The whole process can take minutes.

Renters can peruse the site to find their ideal vehicle, at which point they can express their interest and put the rental process in motion. There are literally hundreds of RV and trailer products available. Renters can even rent RVs parked in seasonal sites – like a cottage of their own.

The owners have complete control over whether they want to rent to that individual or not. If the RV is parked on a seasonal site, the renters must comply with the rules of the site.

Another benefit to renters is cost. Renting from a fleet owned by a company can be quite expensive.

Thompson says an RVezy rental can generally come in at 40 per cent less than a rental company.

“Private owners simply do not have the same overhead as the traditional fleet rental option.

Renters on RVezy typically save up to 40 per cent July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

27

from traditional options. What’s great is that owners will often include their personal items such as a BBQ, toys, linens and we even have owners that include a case of beer for their renters,” says Thompson. Very Canadian.

While this idea is not totally new, it is a first in Canada. McNaught says it was not explored sooner due to the absence of a suitable insurance product.

While there is insurance available in the U.S. for this kind of activity, Canada has never had an on-demand product available for the RV sharing economy. RVezy however, has secured a major insurance product insuring motorhomes and trailers rented from its platform, a first in the Canadian marketplace.

“Proper insurance was our number one priority,” he says. “We worked diligently with the same team that developed insurance for Uber to ensure that the insurance provided to our users was built for Canadians by a Canadian company. Not all insurance products are created equally and a reliable and sustainable insurance relationship is what we provide to our users.”

McNaught says RVezy is already a growing success, with a large demand and ever-expanding inventory.

Now that the biggest barrier to rentals and inventory 28

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

has been eliminated, RVezy is turning its focus on capitalizing on one of the biggest events in Canada’s recent memory.

Canada turns 150 years young this summer and the nation will no doubt receive a massive influx of tourists from around the world. In fact, Canada was named the top destination to see in 2017 by The New York Times.

Canada 150 is already driving Canadians to plan vacations where they get to see and connect with their own land. With Canada’s national parks and historic sites waiving their entry fees (camping is not included) to encourage this exploration – RV and trailer rental should see landmark numbers.

RVezy wants to make that connection possible in a seamless, affordable experience that McNaught hopes will keep customers and RV owners coming back again and again.

“We pride ourselves on a superior level of customer service which exemplifies the Canadian RV experience. As a small token of appreciation to the owners on our site, we offer roadside assistance for personal and rental use free of charge to owners, and give away a $25 gas card to each listing on the site.

It’s our way of saying thank you.”

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Find the RV that Fits Your Personality

By Go RVing Canada

We might be slightly biased, but if you ask us, travelling via RV is the way to go. There are so many advantages to bringing the comforts of home along with you on your travels.

If you’re new to RVing, or you’ve only gone on an RVing trip once or twice in the past, you may feel uncertain about choosing the RV that’s right for you; whether you’re buying, borrowing or renting. Different needs and preferences usually come with a few options each, so it’s handy to compare your top picks. A few things to look for would be how easily the camper is to travel with around urban centres, how economical the RV is to run if you’re on a budget, how many people the RV can comfortably fit, and if the RV comes with the range of appliances you’re looking for. If you are bringing additional toys, like an ATV or a boat, you’ll want to consider if you can tow additional items.

At Go RVing Canada, we love helping people figure out which RV is right for them. We’ve compared different RV options below to help you find the RV that matches your needs, personality, and traveling style.

Pop-Up Trailer______________________

young children. Fold-downs can be found in many lengths with options such as hot water, refrigerator, air conditioning and washrooms. People really like the compact size that offers quick setup and easy storage between uses.

Price range: $10,000 - $25,000 Accommodation: Sleeps up to 8 people Other features: • Low price: A good introduction to the RVing lifestyle with monthly payments can start as low as $99, perfect for first-time buyers or families with young children.

• Lightweight: Easy to tow behind most vehicles and can be unhitched to maneuver the RV by hand into tight camping spots.

• Compact size: Quick setup and easy storage between uses.

• Lots of living space: Includes facilities for kitchen, dining and sleeping. Some models even include a slideout section to increase floor space in the centre of the unit.

• Additional options: Includes stoves, refrigerators, toilets and showers.

Travel Trailer________________________

Also known as fold-down or tent trailers, these lightweight units can be towed by virtually any car and really appeal to first-time buyers or families with 30

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

The travel trailer is the most common RV. Smaller models can be towed by mid-size vehicles: the family car, SUV or pickup truck. The vehicle you plan to pull the RV with will dictate what you can buy because of weight. The benefit with these types of RVs is that they are detachable from the tow vehicle, so you have the freedom to use your car or truck for shopping or sightseeing.

more slideout rooms. They are the most spacious RVs available and often these are set up to serve as a seasonal home, similar to park models.

Price range: $20,000 - $160,000 Accommodation: Sleeps up to 8 people Other features: • Unique bi-level design: The master bedroom (or living room) sits over the truck bed, and there is Price range: $18,000 - $100,000 often a large picture window at the rear for Accommodation: Sleeps up to 10 people panoramic views.

Other features: • Detachable: Leave your trailer at the park and use • Towing weight capacity: Smaller models can be your car or truck for shopping or sightseeing. towed by mid-size vehicles including your family • All the conveniences of home: Everything is car, SUV or pickup truck. Check with your built into a fifth wheel for sleeping, showering, dealer for your vehicle’s tow limits. Larger models dining,cooking and entertainment. Many must be towed by heavy-duty vehicles but do manufacturers also offer true luxury models that not require a special highway movement permit. are very spacious and elegantly furnished.

Detachable from tow vehicle: Leave your trailer • Slideout options: There are as many as four side- at the park and use your car or truck for shopping outs in some models, which extends the RV wall and sightseeing. outward at the touch of a button, a distance of up • All the conveniences of home: includes to 1 metre (3 1/2ft.), to create larger living areas. amenities for sleeping, showering, dining, cooking • Towing weight capacity: It’s important to match and entertainment facilities. the weight of the RV to the towing capacity of • Slideout options: You can extend the RV slideout your truck. Consult your dealer for details. wall outward at the touch of a button, up to 1.07 • Lightweight fifth wheels: Smaller trucks with less meters to create larger living or sleeping areas. towing capacity can be used.

• Lightweight versions: or on the market, designed specifically for towing behind most 6-cylinder Toy Hauler_________________________ family vehicles.

Fifth Wheel Trailer___________________

Larger travel trailer models called fifth wheels must be towed by heavy-duty vehicles, although they do not require a special highway movement permit. Towed by pick-up trucks with a special “fifth wheel” hitch, fifth wheel trailers generally have taller ceilings and

The toy hauler RV is aptly named. Also known as a sport-utility RV, it allows you and your “toys” to travel to your favourite off-road destinations without leaving behind the comforts of home. Beds, dinettes and couches are typically designed to fold up against interior walls to maximize rear cargo space for off-road vehicles such as ATVs, dirt bikes, jet skis, canoes, snowmobiles July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

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or motorcycles. But what really distinguishes the toy • Detachable from tow vehicle: Leave your trailer hauler from other RVs is a swing-down ramp that gives at the park and use your car or truck for shopping you easy access to all the fun. and sightseeing.

• All the conveniences of home: Your trailer has all Price range: $20,000 - $160,000 the amenities for sleeping, showering, dining, Accommodates: Sleeps up to 8 people cooking and entertaining.

Other features: • Smaller models can be towed by mid-size Truck Camper_______________________ vehicles: Including your family car, SUV or pickup truck. Check with your dealer for your vehicle’s tow limits.

• Detachable from tow vehicle: Leave your trailer at the park and use your car or truck for shopping and sightseeing.

• All the conveniences of home: Your trailer has all the amenities for sleeping, showering, dining, cooking and entertaining.

• Fully winterized versions: Includes a higher BTU furnace, heated tanks, upgraded insulation and double-glazed windows.

• Fold down rear door: Gives access to separate garage at the rear of the trailer, or can be extended into a patio.

The Truck Camper RV gives you all the convenience and Hybrid Trailer_______________________ benefits of a trailer and still lets you take full advantage of your pickup truck’s towing abilities. It’s designed to sit in the truck bed with all the conveniences of a larger RV. Meanwhile, your truck is free to tow boats, car carriers, ATVs, snowmobiles or even a horse trailer.

The hybrid trailer is a cross between a hard-sided travel trailer and a pop-up trailer with ends that pull out to offer more sleeping room. It’s lighter, often more affordable and can be towed by many popular family vehicles like mini-vans or SUVs. Price range: $12,000 - $35,000 Accommodates: Sleeps up to 8 people Other features: • Smaller models can be towed by mid-size vehicles: Including your family car, SUV or pickup truck.

Check with your dealer for your vehicle’s tow limits.

• Lightweight versions: Designed specifically for towing behind most 6-cylinder family vehicles 32

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

Price range: $15,000 - $55,000 Accommodates: Sleeps up to 4 people Other features: • Easy and economical: Perfect for anyone who owns a pickup truck, find the appropriate size and weight for your vehicle by talking to your RV dealer.

• Compact: Very handy for travel to and from the campsite, particularly over rough roads. The truck can also tow any trailer.

• Detachable camping unit: It can be set on its own jacks, either at home or at the campsite, allowing the pickup to be used separately.

• Efficient use of space: Today’s models offer a range of floor plans, including some with extended cab-overs, popup roofs or slideouts, to maximize living and storage areas.

• Amenities: Toilets, showers, kitchen facilities, and air conditioners.

• Fully winterized versions: Includes a higher BTU furnace, heated tanks, upgraded insulation and double-glazed windows for winter adventures.

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Class A Motorhome__________________

The grandest of the RV family, the Class A motorhome comes in gas and diesel. The owner of this model is generally someone who has RVed their whole life and is very experienced. The kids are gone and they want to see North America in luxury. Although these are large units, they are usually designed for a couple for this reason. Class A represents a small niche.

Also called camper vans or conversion vans, Class B motorhomes are an engineering marvel! Kitchens, washrooms with showers and they sleep up to four people; all in a slightly stretched full-size van with a raised roof. A Class B motorhome is easy to drive, fits in a normal parking space, is easy on fuel, and can be used as a second vehicle.

Price range: $60,000 - $150,000 Accommodates: Sleeps up to 4 people Other features: • Easy to drive, easy to load: Small size means these RVs are easy to move around town, and can fit in regular parking spots.

• All conveniences of home: Bathing, sleeping, dining and cooking facilities.

• Useful for towing: Tow a boat, a snowmobile, a small family car or even a camping trailer for extra sleeping room.

• Full stand-up room: Thanks to the raised roof and sometimes, dropped floors.

• Fully winterized versions: Includes a higher BTU furnace, heated tanks, upgraded insulation and double-glazed windows for winter adventures.

Price range: $70,000 - $500,000 Accommodates: Sleeps up to 6 people Other features: • Spacious and well equipped: Even the basic models are well-appointed and roomy. But Class C Motorhome__________________ for anyone looking for the ultimate in luxury and elegance, Class A manufacturers have models costing as much as $1 million.

• Slideout rooms: Extends the RV’s exterior wall outward at the touch of a button, to enlarge the living, dining or kitchen area by up to 1 metre (3 1/2 ft.).

• Smooth and stable ride: No special license is required unless the vehicle has air brakes.

• A small vehicle can be towed: Bring your car along for daytrips once the motorhome is parked. You can also tow a trailer to carry your boat or golf cart.

• Fully winterized versions: Includes a higher People like driving the Class C because it has the BTU furnace, heated tanks, upgraded insulation functionality of a van. Where you sit in the cabin feels and double-glazed windows for winter adventures. like driving a van and it has regular doors unlike some Class A units which don’t have a driver side door, so you Class B Motorhome__________________ have to go through the coach to exit. Class C is big for the rental industry. Tourists go for this one as they don’t always have a vehicle to tow. It is easier to drive and get going quickly if only going away for a couple of days.

With mini-motorhomes, once you have it packed, you just drive away.

Price range: $60,000 - $200,000 Accommodates: Sleeps up to 8 people 34

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

Other features: • Ample living space: Equipped with full sleeping, kitchen, dining and bathroom facilities found in a conventional motorhome, as well as entertainment systems and plenty of storage.

• Extra sleeping bunk: Over the cab area can be used as additional storage.

• Useful as a tow vehicle: Tow a boat or trailer to carry snowmobiles, ATVs or canoes, or tow a small family car.

• Slideout option: Offers extra room for living or sleeping areas by moving the RV’s exterior wall outward at the push of a button. This will add up to an additional 1 metre (3 1/2 ft.) to the width of the vehicle.

• Fully winterized versions: Includes a higher BTU furnace, heated tanks, upgraded insulation and double-glazed windows for winter adventures.

Park Model_________________________

Similar to a large conventional travel trailer the park trailer is constructed for seasonal use only. Units are designed for occasional moves using a heavy-duty tow vehicle and do not require a special highway permit.

These units are built on a single chassis and in some cases, have a removable hitch. Onsite hook-ups are required.

Price range: $45,000-$200,000 Accommodates: Sleeps up to 10 people Other features: • Built to CSA Z-241 safety standards: With a maximum of 540 sq.-ft., the park model recreational unit can provide ample space for the whole family.

• Comfort and convenience: Constructed for seasonal use, these units operate on 110V systems allowing for conventional appliances throughout instead of your typical RV style.

• Vinyl siding and peaked shingle roofs: Provides years of maintenance free protection from the elements.

• Fully winterized units are available: Includes a higher BTU furnace, heated tanks, upgraded insulation and double-glazed windows for winter adventures.

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Mail to: Passport America, 5713 Hwy 85 North, Crestview, FL 32536 Or Call 1.800.681.6810 or Fax: 1.850.398.3159

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

35

2016 RV OOPS Awards What’s the dumbest thing you’ve done while RVing?

By Larry MacDonald

I

n several of last year’s awards, well-meaning folks were engaging in friendly conversation with RVers who were driving through a crowded parking lot, departing a campsite, or hooking up a trailer, causing some serious damage. Their friendly interactions lead to the RVers being distracted at exactly the wrong time, when focus was required to complete a task.

Two of this year’s mishaps illustrate another concern with well-meaning folks – their helpful actions actually caused the mishaps. I saved them for last in our list of 10 dumb to dumbest things because, well, they are pretty dumb!

were scattered throughout his living areas, and some of his water lines were chewed through. Fortunately, he had turned off his outside tap.

Ron assumed mice had entered through a port where his water hose came into a utility compartment. From there, they likely crawled into the basement and found their way into the salon.

After vacuuming up the droppings and repairing the damaged water lines, Ron set traps, catching two little critters, which he released – outside.

Helpful hint: Check for small openings under your coach, especially where the water hose and TV cables enter. Mice can enter through an opening as small as ¼ inch, about the size of a pencil eraser. Pack the openings tightly with steel wool and spray with a Mice are nice… outside One of our camping neighbours had left his trailer for a mixture of peppermint oil and water, a proven mousefew weeks in the fall. Upon his return, mouse droppings repellant.

DUMB THINGS No. 10 36

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

No. 9

Black-water shower Jim and his wife had been boondocking in their Class C for a couple of days before arriving at an RV park.

Friends had invited them to dinner, so they immediately spruced up upon arrival. Since he had some time before dinner, Jim decided to hook up the sewer hose to drain the black and grey water tanks. He got out the hose and inserted one end into the sewer drain. Holding the other end, he rotated the cap from the discharge pipe.

Woosh! Black water shot out all over Jim, who didn’t even try to attach the hose until the gusher decreased to a dribble. He sheepishly admitted he “forgot to close the black-water valve while they were dry camping” and added, “We were late for dinner!”

Helpful hint: In addition to a black-water valve, it’s prudent to have a separate gate valve at the end of the discharge pipe, which is kept closed when boondocking and in transit.

No. 8

Alf occasionally checked his tires for inflation, cracks, and tread wear but never for age. He assumed that by using his motorhome only during the summer months, his tires should last longer. Not so, he learned from the salesman. “Tires which sit for extended periods, especially on damp ground and in direct sunlight, will deteriorate quicker than those used regularly.”

Helpful hint: A tire’s age can be determined by the last four digits of the DOT code. For example, with a code of 4216, the first two digits refer to the week of manufacture and the last two digits refer to the year… the 42nd week of 2016.

No. 6

Fill ’er up When Fred decided to give up RVing, he sold his diesel pusher to a man who had described himself as a longhaul trucker. Following the transaction, he spent a couple of hours explaining all the systems. A few days later, Fred got a call from the buyer who said the coach had stalled. After some discussion, the reason became painfully clear: the buyer had put gasoline in the fuel tank. Perhaps the trucker got distracted at the fuel pump at exactly the wrong time?

Fred didn’t know the extent of damages, and he certainly didn’t think it was necessary to tell a trucker to put diesel in the fuel tank. Diesel fuel, unlike gasoline, acts as a lubricant for the fuel-injection system. Running a diesel engine on gasoline will cause the fuel pump to overheat and damage the fuel injection system.

Surprisingly, no standard exists for the colours used on pump handles at fuel stations, however, diesel handles are usually green, yellow, or black. If your engine is diesel, your fuel cap should be labeled “DIESEL” as a reminder to check the pump before adding fuel.

Look before you leap Night had fallen in the campground when Linda decided to leave the coach to bring in the tablecloth from the picnic table. Outside was pitch dark, as she did not want to attract moths to their door light. The step switch was set so that the steps would extend when the door opened and retract when the door closed. It always worked that way, until that night.

Linda opened the door and stepped down... and further down until she landed on the ground. Fortunately, her only injury was a bruised ankle, which took the brunt of the fall. The steps had remained retracted.

A nearby RV repair shop replaced a faulty door switch. Even though the steps now extend reliably Part 2 continued in the September/October issue. when the door is opened, Linda follows the advice in the instruction manual: “Always look down to make sure the steps are extended before stepping out.”

No. 7

Best before date Alf was driving his Class A along a freeway when boom, the sound of a cannon reverberated in the back of his coach. Pulling over, he found that one rear tire had exploded, throwing a chunk of rubber through the wheel well, damaging an interior cabinet. With his flashers on, he drove slowly to the nearest tire shop, where the salesman recommended he replace all six tires. “Why all six when the tread is like new?” Alf asked. “Because they are 10 years old. Most tire manufacturers recommend changing them after six or seven years, regardless of tread wear.”

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

37

gourmet the healthy way

Campfire Appetizers That Eat Like a Meal Photos and Recipes by Deb Rankine

Here are two great vegetarian-inspired campfire meals that are sure to please carnivores, too, if you include chunks of cooked sausage into the offerings.

Add a side salad and – start to finish – you’ve got supper from the fire to the table in less than 30 minutes.

Skillet Fondue (serves 4) Ingredients 1 wheel (550g) brie 2 tablespoons white wine 2 tablespoons buckwheat honey 1/2 teaspoon no-salt dried vegetable seasoning (try Mrs. Dash) 1/4 teaspoon crumbled dried thyme leaves Apple and pear wedges; crudités; crostini; rice crackers, for serving Method • If desired, use a Microplane or vegetable peeler to remove rind from top and sides of brie, then place in a 10-inch cast iron skillet and using the point of a paring knife, poke 1/4-inch deep slits into the surface.

• Drizzle wine over cheese and allow to seep into surface, then drizzle over honey and sprinkle with vegetable seasoning and thyme.

• Place skillet on grill set over medium-hot coals and cook until cheese beings to ooze from sides; about 10 minutes. Serve immediately with fruits, vegetables, bread and crackers. Reheat over coals if cheese begins to solidify.

Pro Tip: Watch my Facebook video on The Fridge Whisperer page to learn how to easily and economically remove the rind from soft cheeses.

38

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

Skillet Tapas (serves 4) Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound cooked hot chorizo sausage, sliced crosswise into 1/4-inch half moons (optional) 1 can (19oz/540mL) whole potatoes, drained, patted dry and halved crosswise 1 each red, yellow and orange bell pepper, seeded and flesh cut into 1-inch squares 4 small onions, halved through root end and peeled 2 cloves garlic 1 teaspoon sweet smoked Spanish paprika Kosher salt and cracked black pepper 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat leaf parsley

Monthly Premiums: $100,000 Non-Smoker Rates Age 50 55 60 65 70

Male Term 10 $ 22.85 $ 32.72 $ 54.43 $86.96 $168.00

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Method • Set skillet on grill over medium coals, add oil and heat to shimmering, add sausage, if using, peppers, onion, garlic and paprika and cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 20 minutes stirring and tossing often, then season to taste with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately with crusty bread, if desired.

DID YOU KNOW... printable PDF versions of Chef Deb’s entire series (eight cookbooks and counting!) are available at FridgeWhisperer.com for only $1.49 per title.

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

39

money senseDinsurance

TRAVEL INSURANCE Are your pre-existing medical conditions insured?

By Barry Sanderson

40

What is a pre-existing medical condition?

A pre-existing medical condition usually means any medical condition or symptoms for which medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment was recommended or received by a doctor or other practitioner at any time prior to your departure date. These medical conditions or symptoms are described in the insurance policy.

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

Getting insurance with a pre-existing medical condition Many people with existing medical conditions assume they are ineligible for travel insurance but that’s not true. In many cases you can get insurance and, even if you aren’t eligible for coverage for a pre-existing medical condition, you can still be protected against other risks or risks to your family, through a travel insurance policy.

Some pre-existing medical conditions, like asthma, are no big deal. For others you may need to provide a little more information to your insurance company before they will issue a policy. If you have one of these pre-existing medical conditions you will have the opportunity to have a policy tailored to meet your needs. First you’ll be provided with a medical questionnaire to complete. Then, the information provided is used to provide a policy that fits your situation. You will have peace of mind knowing what’s covered while you’re away, with a policy created for your unique situation.

The cost of insuring a pre-existing medical condition If you have a pre-existing medical condition, there is a chance that the cost of your policy will increase. How much it increases depends on a number of factors, including the type and severity of the condition, your age and the length of your trip.

Qualifying for insurance with a pre-existing medical condition Many insurance companies will provide coverage if your condition is “stable”. The definition and duration of stability can vary depending on the insurance company, and policy. Generally, though, to be considered stable, your condition must meet some common conditions: • No new diagnosis, treatment or prescribed medication • No change in treatment or medication, including the amount taken or frequency • No new symptoms or more frequent or severe symptoms • No test results showing deterioration • Not awaiting test results investigating the condition • Not been hospitalized or referred to a specialist

benefit from coverage for other medical emergencies as well as the other policy benefits like trip cancellation and lost baggage.

Don’t let a pre-existing medical condition prevent you from protecting yourself and your family while you are travelling.

Can I just not mention my pre-existing conditions?

This is NOT a good idea! Getting a policy in your hand doesn’t necessarily mean you actually have the coverage.

If you purchase a travel insurance policy without disclosing a pre-existing medical condition, the policy will be considered invalid and any medical claims you make against that policy will be denied.

Coverage for your other risks If you can’t get insurance for an existing condition Call our travel insurance specialists at the Club to help because it is not stable, you can still be insured for other with your questions and get an independent quote on conditions that are. And you and your family can still your travel insurance needs at 1-877-226-8728.

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

41

camping newsDreports ALBERTA Alberta Wildrose Explorers Otto Neitsch is ill and no longer able to look after any campouts. If any of members are interested in heading up a campout, please call (800) 999-0819.

MANITOBA Manitoba Explorers

By Phyllis Briercliffe Happy Canada Day! Camping season is in full swing. Manitoba Explorers have had two events this spring. We welcomed our snowbirds home in April with a very good turnout at a brunch in Winnipeg. Our first campout was at Champagne’s RV Park. This is always a meet and greet with potluck and a fireplace. Many campouts are planned for this summer with a highlight at the Morden Corn and Apple Festival, August 2527, 2017. Campsites for this event are at a premium so campers usually arrive Thursday or earlier. For further information on this campout or any others, contact Ruth Dejong at (204) 222-7393. Come and share the fun this summer. Happy camping.

ONTARIO Happy Campers – Dundalk

By Martin Schell Date: August 16-20, 2017 Location: By majority vote, this year’s campout will be held at Highpoint Campground, 250 Owen Sound St., Dundalk, ON. Most can have water and electric hook-ups. Washrooms and showers available, with dumping station on-site. www.southgate.ca/content/ highpoint-campground August 16 and 17 is set up and fellowship. We’ll kick off Thursday with registration and a potluck.

Bring a favourite dish for Thursday. There will be a BBQ of hamburgers, sausage and potatoes on Friday and hobo stew on Saturday, with a prize for the best dress hobo costume. Sunday we’ll say our goodbyes.

There will be campfires and lots of games! Come visit with fellow campers and have a good time. Hope to see you all again and newcomers welcome.

Cost of campout is $30 per day, per couple or $150 for the five days. This includes site, hall, food for breakfast and BBQ. ($10/day for each extra person staying on your site.)

Directions between Shelburne and Flesherton on Hwy. 10 on Hwy. 9 coming in to Dundalk you’ll see Foodland and Dundalk pool, the campground is in behind, there is a laneway between them.

Please respond as soon as possible for site bookings.

42

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

For more information call Martin Schell at (705) 955-4093 or martinschell52@gmail.com.

Happy Campers – Chesley Fall 2017 Submitted by Ginny Eichler Howdy cowgirls and cowboys! We hope you are having a fantastic summer! We are busy putting together the details for our fall hoedown campout. For now, here’s what you need to know: Date: September 11-September 14 Location: Cedar Rail Campground, Scone, ON (Located on the Grey Bruce line, R. R. #3, Chesley).

Services: 31 full hook-up sites assigned to the first 31 who sign up with us. Folks signing up after the first 31 will have sites with electricity and water. A dump station is available, as well as internet (free voucher at check in) and a heated swimming pool. There are also showers and restrooms.

Registration fee: $25/person for the campout. Sign up at the Bracebridge campout in June, or contact the Weilers or the Eichlers (see below).

Camping fee: The exact rate is being determined, but will be approximately $30/night. After set up, please pay the campground at the office.

Finding your site: Upon arrival you will be greeted by one of us who will direct you to your site.

Theme: Along with our Western theme, we will be celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday! Add a little red and white to your cowboy boots and duds, and be ready to celebrate with us. There will be lots of horsin’ around and good vittles. A detailed agenda will be comin’ your way (by email or phone call) prior to the event, to all you pardners who sign up.

Hope you’ll be able to mount up and head out to this campout. We’ll be lookin’ for y’all there.

Contact: Ed and Jean Weiler, (519) 696-2488 (jeanandedweiler@yahoo.ca); Gil and Ginny Eichler, (519) 578-2128 (ggeichler@gmail.com).

Memories Chapter

By Bob and Pat Sanderson Hello all RV groups, long haul adventurers, weekend warriors and adventure types. Memories events for this year are full. 2017 events have started as detailed in the last few issues of Canadian RVing. Parks fill fast, so it is important to call at the first of the year to reserve a spot. Stories and photos will follow in upcoming issues. Thank you everyone for your interest and 2018 events will be posted early in 2018.

For Memories Chapter information, please email bobpat@rogers.com.

Quinte Wagoneers Chapter

By Bill van der Valk It looked like Old Man Winter wasn’t done with southern Ontario this year. We had a week of rain and cold weather just before our May camp was to be held.

The campground, on the shores of Lake Ontario, was inundated with water; so much that half of the campground sites were under water and the rest were so soggy our rigs would have had difficulty getting in.

The camp was cancelled but the hosts had a luncheon at a local restaurant in Brighton. Nineteen guests showed up for three hours of eating, drinking and chatting.

Our June camp (2-3-4) is in Delta, ON, at Lower Beverley Lake Park. This area is within walking distance of downtown Delta and still on the shores of Lower Beverley Lake.

July will find us at Riverwood Park Family Campgrounds in Lindsay, ON. It is on the July 7-8-9 weekend and many are staying an extra night so they can enjoy the Classics on Kent car show in downtown Lindsay. On the Sunday, Main Street will be closed and hundreds of classic cars will be on display for all to enjoy.

In August we will be at Rideau Acres Campground in the Kingston area. Lots of things to see and do there.

If you’re interested in joining us at this camp or any other camp this year, please contact billandgerryv@ gmail.com.

Southwestern Ontario Chapter

By Martha Knight Our new camping season has begun. By the time, you read this we will have enjoyed getting together at Golden Pond RV Resort. The hosts have planned a little something for everyone including wine and cheese, quilting a Canadian flag and mini golf. We will have enjoyed campfires every evening and lots of good laughs.

The next campout will be at Lakewood Christian Campground, 4297 Lakeshore Rd., Plympton-Wyoming, ON, from June 20-23. This campground is close to the shores of beautiful Lake Huron. Once again, we will have campfires every night and plenty of time to enjoy new and old friends.

From July 31-August 4, we will be camping at the Great Canadian Hideaway, 32910 Centre Rd., Parkhill, ON. Call (519) 294-6333 to make reservations.

From August 23-25 we will be at Mooretown Campground, which is less than one block from the scenic

St. Clair River.

Our final campout will be September 19-22 at Carsons Camp in Sauble Beach. Call (519) 422-1143 for reservations.

If you would like to join us, please contact our President, Ben Sietsma, at b.lsietsma@gmail.com or (519) 520-2061.

NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter

By Ern Pennell Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter held our annual May Luncheon and Meeting at Clarenville Inn, Clarenville, NL, on May 9 with approximately 30 members in attendance.

Everyone seems to have survived the long NL winter and are looking forward to the 2017 camping season.

Plans are well underway for our first 2017 rally, scheduled for the weekend of June 16, at Shriner’s RV Park in Eastport, NL. Wagonmasters, Una and George Joseph and friends have a great weekend planned and have assured good weather.

Final arrangements have been made for an 11-unit caravan, scheduled to begin on the evening of July 16, with all the participants meeting at Grand Codroy Park in Doyles, NL, to kick off a 23-day Maritime tour of NS, PEI and NB. Preliminary arrangements are underway for a late summer/early fall campout with details to follow.

From all of us at NL Chapter, safe travels during camping season 2017.

Newfound Chapter

By Doug Barnes At the time of writing this update (first week of May) most of our club members, who spent the winter south are back and preparing for the season. The executive is meeting this week to finalize plans for the soon-tostart camping season.

This year we will start our rallies in Central Newfoundland at the Sanger Memorial RV Park in Grand Falls on June 23 then moving a little west to the Crescent Lake RV Park in Robert’s Arm. Plans for our mid-summer rally are being finalized for stays at both Bellevue Beach Campground in Trinity Bay and Paradise Farm RV Park on the Bonavista Peninsula starting July 31. Our final get-together will include both Shriners RV Park in Eastport and Terra Nova National Park in September.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Doug.Barnes@nf.sympatico.ca.

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

43

Recall Notices

By Jim Lister

If you have a vehicle or product that has been recalled, please record the VIN or serial number and call the manufacturer or dealer. The recall contact number for GM is 1-800-263-3777 and for Ford, 1-800-5653673 or visit that company’s website at www.fordcanada.com and click on “Contact Us” to send an e-mail.

Chrysler Canada can be reached at 1-800-465-2001 or e-mail at www.chryslercanada.ca/owners/en and Toyota at 1-888-869-6828.

RV RECALLS Recall No.: 2017-151 Company: Airstream Models: 2017 Basecamp Canadian Units: 11 Description: On certain travel trailers, the tires could come into contact with inner wheel well liner and fender when the suspension fully compresses. This could result in sudden tire failure or a rapid loss of tire air pressure, which would increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage.

Correction: Dealers will replace the axle with a new one that will prevent contact with the wheel well inner liner and fender.

Recall No.: 2017-0092 Company: Forest River Models: 2017 Spartan & XLR Toy Haulers Canadian Units: 15 Description: On certain travel trailers, the hinge assemblies of the rear cargo door may have been manufactured incorrectly. The weld on the hinge assembly had been ground down during manufacturing to ensure clearance when installed on a door. The grinding of the weld weakened the joint and as a result, if the door was to be opened and the hinge assembly was to fail, the door could come down with more force than normal, increasing the risk of injury to a person standing nearby.

Correction: Dealers will inspect the hinge assembly and replace as necessary.

Recall No.: 2017-121 Company: Forest River Models: 2017 Berkshire Mfg. Recall No.: FL-727 Canadian Units: 2 Description: On certain motorhomes, a rubber coated braided power steering hose may have inadequate clearance to the starter power stud due to incorrect routing. This could cause the power steering hose to rub against the stud on the starter motor, which could cause an electrical arc and a power steering fluid leak. A power steering leak in the presence of an electrical arc could increase the risk of fire causing injury and/or damage to 44

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

property. A power steering fluid leak could also require additional steering effort which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Daimler Trucks North America service facilities will reroute the power steering hose to ensure proper clearance to starter stud.

Recall No.: 2017-132 Company: Forest River Models: 2017 Puma Canadian Units: 10 Description: Certain vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (CMVSS) 110 - Tire Selection and Rims. The certification label incorrectly states the tires and rims as ST205/75R15C Tires and 14X5 Rims. However, the label should state the tire size as ST205/75R14C, and the rim size as 14X5.5JJ. This could lead to the wrong tire and rim size being used, which could lead to poor vehicle handling characteristics and increase the risk of tire failure, which could result in a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Forest River will provide a corrected certification label to current owners and dealers with instructions for proper placement. If owners are not comfortable installing the label themselves, they can take the label to a Forest River dealer for installation.

Recall No.: 2017-133 Company: Forest River Models: 2017 Flagstaff & Rockwood Canadian Units: 3 Description: On certain travel trailers, the certification label may not contain the correct Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The label incorrectly indicates a GVWR of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) instead of 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg). As a result, the vehicle could be overloaded, which would result in poor vehicle handling characteristics, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Forest River will provide a corrected certification label to current owners and dealers with instructions for proper placement. If owners are not comfortable installing the label themselves, they can take the label to a Forest River dealer for installation.

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recalls Recall No.: 2017-139 Company: Forest River Models: 2017 Flagstaff & Rockwood Canadian Units: 7 Description: On certain travel trailers, the slide room mounting bracket may not ensure adequate clearance of the slide mounting head from the tread of the driver’s side front tire. If the vehicle is not pulled level, or the suspension is loaded unequally, there is a risk the tire will contact the slide mounting head, which could cause rapid air loss and/or tire failure, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage.

Correction: Dealers will install a new slide mounting bracket to ensure proper clearance from the driver’s side front tire.

Recall No.: 2017-090 Company: Heartland Models: 2017 Cyclone & Road Warrior Mfg. Recall No.: 99.01.33 Canadian Units: 9 Description: On certain travel trailers outfitted with Furrion cooktops, the liquid propane (LP) hose going to the cooktop is angled down and is pressing against the top of the oven. This could cause the LP hose to put excessive pressure on the hose fitting and gas valve, which over time, could develop a leak. A propane leak, in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire causing injury and/or damage to property Correction: Dealers will install and position a flexible gas connector from the cooktop to the LP hose so as not to put pressure on the valve.

Recall No.: 2017-106 Company: Jayco (Highland Ridge RV) Models: 2017 Mesa Ridge, Open Range & Roamer Canadian Units: 22 Description: On certain travel trailers, the outside range could be stored inside the unit with the gas valve left open. If this occurs, gas could enter the unit and build up. Gas in the presence of an ignition source could increase the risk of fire causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Dealers will install a newly designed gas valve handle, inspect the drawer guide for proper location, repair it as required and put a new label indicating that the gas valve must be turned prior to storing the outside range.

Recall No.: 2017-126 Company: Jayco (Highland Ridge RV) Models: 2016-2017 Open Range Canadian Units: 3 Description: On certain fifth wheels, the axle hangers 46

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

may puncture the riser tube wall allowing the axle to shift and become misaligned. If this occurs, the tires could wear out irregularly and fail, which would increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Dealers will install new hangers and weld all sides of the riser tube.

Recall No.: 2017-103 Company: Jayco Models: 2017 Seismic & Seismic Wave fifth wheels Canadian Units: 15 Description: On certain travel trailers, the breakaway switch may not have been wired correctly. If the trailer was to disconnect from the towed vehicle during transit, the fifth wheel brakes would not be automatically applied, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Dealers will correct the wiring.

Recall No.: 2017-127 Company: Keystone Models: 2017 Cougar & Laredo Mfg. Recall No.: 17-279 Canadian Units: 5 Description: On certain travel trailers, two carbon monoxide detectors were installed instead of one smoke detector and one carbon monoxide detector. This results in the vehicle having no smoke detector, which could increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.

Correction: Dealers will replace one carbon monoxide detector with a smoke detector.

Recall No.: 2017-080 Company: REV Recreation Group Models: Renegade RV 2012 Classic 2013-2016 Explorer 2013 Ikon 2016 Verona 2015-2016 Village 2014-2016 XL Mfg. Recall No.: 170110REV Canadian Units: 21 Description: On certain motorhomes, the structural support for the seatbelt attachment hardware installed in the floor framing for the side-facing sofa may be inadequate. In the event of sudden braking or a vehicle crash, the seatbelts may detach from the floor framing, which would result in the seatbelt not adequately restraining the seat occupant, increasing the risk of injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Dealers will replace the lag screws fastening the side-facing sofa seatbelts with bolts and

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July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

47

recalls will also add reinforcement plating for the seatbelt attachment hardware, as required.

Recall No.: 2017-083 Company: REV Recreation Group Models: 2017 Fleetwood Storm 2016-2017 Holiday Rambler Vacationer Mfg. Recall No.: 170131REV Canadian Units: 10 Description: On certain motorhomes equipped with gasoline engines, the fuel fill tubing, fuel fill mounting hardware, or fuel vent tubing may come into contact with the spring shackle bolt. If the fuel fill tubing contacts the spring shackle bolt and becomes damaged, a fuel leak may result. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire causing injury and/or property damage.

Correction: Dealers will inspect the fuel fill and fuel vent components and if necessary, re-route them and/or install additional components to prevent contact with the spring shackle bolt.

Recall No.: 2017-149 Company: REV Recreation Group Models: American Coach 2016 American Allegiance 2016-2017 American Dream 2015-2017 American Eagle 2015 American Heritage 2015-2017 American Revolution 2015-2016 American Tradition 2017 Holiday Rambler Scepter Mfg. Recall No.: 170228REV Canadian Units: 41 Description: On certain motorhomes, the step tread of the interior entry steps may have been insufficiently supported during assembly. This could result in the step tread to potentially become unstable, which could cause a person to fall, resulting in injury.

Correction: Dealers will install new screws to properly secure the horizontally mounted plywood cleats to the plywood supporting structure of the interior entry steps.

could come down with more force than normal, increasing the risk of injury to a person standing nearby.

Correction: Dealers will inspect the hinge assembly and replace as necessary.

Recall No.: 2017-078 Company: Thor Motor Coach Models: 2014-2015 Palazzo & Tuscany Mfg. Recall No.: RC0000128 Canadian Units: 141 Description: On certain motorhomes, the windshield wiper system may have been incorrectly installed and secured. This could result in the wiper system being loose, which could limit the driver’s visibility under certain conditions which may increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Dealers will inspect the wiper system for correct installation, and if required, the wiper nut(s) will be tightened to specification.

Recall No.: 2017-074 Company: Tiffin Models: 2015 Phaeton Mfg. Recall No.: FL-723 Canadian Units: 17 Description: On certain motorhomes equipped with a heavier weight adjustable straight foot pedal, the brake activation signal to the motorhome’s brake lights and to certain towed devices may not deactivate when the motorhome service brakes are released. This may cause the motorhome brake lights to potentially remain illuminated, which would result in following road users being unaware of the driver’s intentions. Additionally, if the brakes of a towed vehicle were to remain engaged, it could result in a loss of vehicle control. Both of these conditions could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Daimler Trucks North America authorized service facilities will replace the torsion spring of the pedal assembly with an improved spring.

Recall No.: 2017-094 Company: Winnebago Industries Models: 2014-2017 Travato Recall No.: 2017-037 Mfg. Recall No.: 144 Company: Thor Motor Coach Canadian Units: 19 Models: 2016-2017 Outlaw Description: On certain vehicles, a liquid propane Mfg. Recall No.: RC0000125 (LP) line could contact the emergency brake cable, Canadian Units: 5 potentially resulting in a propane leak. A propane leak, Description: On certain motorhomes, the hinge in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire assemblies of the rear cargo door may have been manufactured incorrectly. The weld on the hinge assembly causing injury and/or damage to property.

Correction: Dealers will inspect the LP line and had been ground down during manufacturing to ensure reposition or replace it as necessary. clearance when installed on a door. The grinding of the weld weakened the joint, and as a result, if the door were The complete list of July/August recalls on vehicles can be found at to be opened and the hinge assembly were to fail, the door www.canadianrving.com 48

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

marketplace Cottage Boat RV

SAW Technology

3505 Laird Road, unit 18, Mississauga Ont. L5L 5Y7 Inverters Controllers Battery Solar Air Heater and more .....

50W / 100W High Efficiency Semi Flexible Solar Panel

Outdoor/Indoor LED DC Lights

Tel: (905) 567-1804 info@sawtechnology.com Solar LED Street Lights

Solar Website: www.SolarShoppingMall.com LED Website: www.MaxPowerLEDlights.com

Solar Panels: 20W - 325W On-grid, Off-grid

snowbirds! mexico is calling!

Join Baja Amigos RV Caravan Tours for fun and adventure this winter

BAJA AMIGOS

Mexico Camping since 1985 Call us at 1-866-999-baJa (2252) info@bajaamigos.net www.bajaamigos.net

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

49

classifieds For Sale

Class C in great condition. 1998 Fleetwood, 29 ft., new tires, ca 120,000 km. Many extras, will safety chassis.

Training session available. Asking $42,000. Tel: 613824-9257.

Class A 1995 Damon Frontier Flyer 27.4 ft., 72,000 km. Great condition. Many extras. Will safety. Stored indoors. $16,500. Call 519-979-8533.

Classified Ad Rates Personal

$25.00 for the first 15 words (minimum); $.25 cents/word after 15 (plus GST/HST were applicable).

Commercial $65.00 for the first 10 words (minimum); $2.00/word after 10 (plus GST/HST were applicable).

For classified ad information call

1-800-999-0819

Send in your photos of your favourite places to stop!

A favourite place to stop and stretch our legs is the Lookout Trail in Ontario’s Algonquin Park.

50

Canadian RVing • July/August 2017

Advertisers’ List Aviva Home and Auto Insurance .................................33 Back Roads Mobile RV.........................................................49 Baja Amigos.................................................................................49 Can-Am RV Centre (RV Dealer)......................................5 Canadian RVing.........................................................................45 Erwin Hymer.................................................................................9 Explorer RV Club....................................................................47 Explorer RV Club Emergency Road Service...........21 Havelock Country Jamboree...............................................7 H. Broer Equipment...............................................................49 K9 Emergency Response Button....................................25 Lant Insurance (Hagerty Classic Car Insurance)...15 Marine Atlantic..........................................................................13 McPhail’s of Harriston (RV Dealer)...............................23 National Bank............................................................................17 Passport America....................................................................35 RV Hotline ................................................................................50 Sanderson Insurance & Investments.............................39 Sanderson Travel Insurance................................................29 SAW Technology......................................................................49 Wayfarer Insurance......................................49, 52 (OBC) Wilder RV Resorts..................................2 (IFC), 51 (IBC)

July/August 2017 • Canadian RVing

51

Wayfarer Insurance Brokers • RV Insurance Specialists

Choose Canada’s leading RV insurer, the Elite–Wayfarer RV Insurance Plan.

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Our hard earned reputation for quality coverage and unmatched service in the event of a claim comes from over 45 years of experience as Canada’s leading RV insurance specialist. You see, unlike most insurers, we actually know that a fifth-wheel isn’t really a wheel.

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