mez
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 4
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Post by mez on Jun 1, 2015 6:29:38 GMT -5
Hey all,
I just purchased a KZ Sportsman 330 BHK 2016, and will be picking it up this Wednesday. I am just looking to get some general advice for a new TT owner. We are going on our maiden voyage this Friday. Since the camper is a bit longer, I wanted to go somewhere close. So our first trip will only be about an hour away.
Some things I am concerned about are: 1. Wind 2. Tractor trailers 3. making right turns
Any advice on these would be great. I know slow and steady is the pace, and I probably won't go above 55 mph. However, outside of being careful, I also want any advice to help with this experience.
Second advice I am looking for is packing. I want to pack light, and I mean in the sense that I don't want to over pack and have more than I need. I guess I am curious what are the essentials I will need, and what is recommended to help keep packing your vacation light. For example, Paper Plates, plastic silverware, so forth. Not that I won't use say plastic plates or bowls, just wondering the tricks of the trade on where to save in space and weight. Also things I will need but never have thought of yet.
Thanks,
Aaron
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Post by johnr on Jun 1, 2015 6:45:24 GMT -5
Hi mez, welcome to the group!
For driving, the best advice would be to find an empty parking lot and practice driving it around backwards and forwards. Should give you a sense of how it moves. Other than that, take it slow and experience is the best teacher. Swing out a little wide on right hand turns, you can't corner like a car.
Even if I wanted to pack light, my wife would pack what she wanted anyway. I would recommend having a toolbox in your camper or truck in case something comes up. Zip ties, duct tape, voltage meter, extension cords, small step ladder, extra fuses. Don't forget to put propane in your tanks if the dealer didn't.
Hope this helps!
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mez
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 4
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Post by mez on Jun 1, 2015 8:52:16 GMT -5
Thanks for the input! I will def do the parking lot practice. I guess it is only normal to be nervous and admit it then be stupid and thing I am a pro Packing is probably one of those things you can perfect over time I assume
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Post by johnr on Jun 1, 2015 9:37:43 GMT -5
Not sure if your unit is 50 amp or 30 amp, but last weekend I saw a couple try to stretch their 25 foot cord from the camper to the pole which was 27 feet away. They are expensive, but I'd suggest buying an extension cord. I've acquired the different electrical adapters over the years which I need. Some campgrounds only have 50 amp or 30 amp plugs, you'll need to be able to convert to. Worst case scenario for me is plugging my 50 amp cord into a standard 110v outlet (if you do that, I don't recommend running air conditioning because you may damage the unit).
The same couple was also trying to connect their 25 foot water hose 30 feet. Have a couple extra water hoses stored away in your camper. When one breaks you'll be able to keep going without a trip to the store to try to find something.
Yes, you'll learn what you need over time as far as packing goes.
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Post by paroadking1 on Jun 1, 2015 9:40:39 GMT -5
I have a 30TH being pulled by a 2500 Ram Diesel. The key to easy pulling is the tow vehicle and sway / weight distribution hitch. My setup tows very well, but you will feel the strong cross winds. You will feel a slight pull as you pass trucks, but again, not bad. As for tighter turns, take your time, wait for an opening and make your turn wide and sharp. They trail very nicely, you just need some time trailering it Every time we go, we think of something to add to the trailer .
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mez
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 4
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Post by mez on Jun 1, 2015 10:41:17 GMT -5
What about things like your sewage hose, and water pressure regulators? Do I need cable wire to hook up cable if we get that at our site?
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Post by paroadking1 on Jun 1, 2015 11:17:24 GMT -5
What about things like your sewage hose, and water pressure regulators? Do I need cable wire to hook up cable if we get that at our site? I have a full set of 15' sewer line along with another 10' just in case. Also need water hose, pressure regulator, and electric surge protector and yes, your own TV cable Nice thing is, most campgrounds have stores with the necessary items in case you forgot them It is very helpful to find someone near you that could help with your first outing or two
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Post by shortlance on Jun 1, 2015 14:02:42 GMT -5
Greetings and welcome to the forum! When you get to the campgrounds almost all the seasoned campers will be more then happy to help you out. Every one of us had our first time and needed help figuring everything out. I found that 99% of the RV community wants to help new RV'ers get started and will help you with any issues or questions you have---we want everyone to enjoy and have a great time. What area of the country are you in? Chances are that someone on this forum is in your area.
I'm sure you are going to enjoy your RV adventures.
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Post by johnr on Jun 1, 2015 15:01:41 GMT -5
Yes, sewer hose. I'm sorry, it seems like every time I get a camper, the dealer throws in a little care package that includes sewer hose, water hose, just a little assortment of needed things. I just assumed that you received something similar.
You'll find that sometimes you'll try to drain your sewer going up-hill. I bought a scrap piece of plastic rain gutter that I use to run my sewer hose in so that I can control the slope. Throw some blocks of wood (or even firewood in a pinch) and it works great.
You might also want to think about a water filter system if there isn't one installed in your camper.
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bluegrass
Seasonal RV’er
2019 1500Durango 259rdd
Posts: 177
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Post by bluegrass on Jun 1, 2015 18:45:36 GMT -5
My husband is the driver most of the time, I don't get excited about driving our 30ft trailer, but I can when necessary. I think, trucks passing, expecially the low to the ground ones...moving vans...are the worse for me. I have to admit I "white knuckle"the steering wheel when I see them pull out to pass. My husband says not to panic and keep the same pressure or a even a little more on the gas to help prevent a sway from the slight push as they pass. Works for me. The sway bar system we have now seems to make a huge difference. See what others recommend.
If you aren't used to using side mirrors, work with them whenever you are on the road....forget you have a rear-view even when you aren't towing for practice.
I agree with those who say find a large parking lot and practice. If you can get some traffic cones, they are great to practice parking, backing between, and making turns with. They are very forgiving to your trailer.
Happy Camping.
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mez
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 4
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Post by mez on Jun 2, 2015 6:15:27 GMT -5
Wow thanks all for the great input As far as a care package, I can't say all but I know where I got mine they give you a 75$ gift card to get essentials. My friends bought one in Campingworld in Arkon OH, and they didn't get a care package either, but same thing they got a 25$ gift card for essentials.
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