What’s the biggest RV mistake you’ve made or seen? I’d love to hear your experiences and how you’ve overcome them! Let’s share some tips and stories to help each other out. 😄 Click here to subscribe: www.youtube.com/@rollinwithrver?sub_confirmation=1
Great video! I learned the hard way about not checking the trailer brakes properly, almost had a disaster on my first trip. Wish I had this guide back then!
Thank you for sharing your experience! Trailer brakes are definitely one of those things that can easily be overlooked but are so crucial for safety. I’m glad you were able to avoid a disaster! Hopefully, this guide helps prevent more stressful moments like that in the future. Do you have any other tips or lessons you’ve learned from your trips? I’m sure other viewers would love to hear them!
Thank you so much! I really appreciate the support, it means a lot. Warren and I have been working hard to make these scripts as helpful as possible, so it’s great to hear the effort is paying off. Looking forward to catching up on Monday’s call!
CONSTANTLY TIGHTENING LUG NUTS LEADS TO BREAKING THE BOLTS AND I'VE HAD WHEELS TO SHEAR RIGHT OFF COMPLETELY BECAUSE SOME MECHANIC HAD OVER TIGHTENED DEFINITELY NEED TO USE A TORQUE WRENCH
You bring up such an important point! Over-tightening lug nuts is a mistake that can lead to serious and even dangerous consequences, like the ones you’ve experienced. Using a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications is absolutely critical for safety and wheel longevity.
Exactly! There's no need to rush, RVing is all about enjoying the journey, not just the destination. Slowing down not only keeps you safer on the road but also lets you soak in the scenery and truly relax.
My xomcern with recommending weight distribution hitches is that there is likely no need for them with smaller campers on full sized tow vehicles and since a lot of these campers are made cheaply for various reasons. Some manufacturers have had frame problems and there is a possibility a WDH could add too much stress to the ffront of the campers frame. Another good thing to do is after you lock to ypur ball, put the jack down again to make sure you are indeed locked to the ball.
That's a very valid concern! Weight distribution hitches can be beneficial for some setups, but you're absolutely right that they might not be necessary, or even ideal for smaller campers with full-sized tow vehicles. The potential stress they could add to a weaker frame is definitely something to consider, especially with the quality issues some manufacturers face. And your tip about double-checking the hitch connection is spot on! It’s such a simple step but can make a huge difference in ensuring a safe towing experience. Thanks for sharing this valuable advice!
It is true, that now the newer trailer hitches are now frames are made with cheaper and thinner steel. They do bend. Distribution hitches a great for on the highway, but if you go off a pavement road, you should take them off. Never have them on when you go to a campsite on a rough road. With these newer trailers, we should get a large piece of steel welded to the inside of the frame, where it starts to bend at the propane tanks. This would re enforce the frame at the point where it will bend.
Great video. I recently had the trailer disconnect from truck and luckily we safely came to a stop on the shoulder of the highway. The coupler pin was still in place so we adjusted the tightness of the coupler by adjusting the nut under neath the coupler. You mentioned a secondary coupler lock. I didn't see one that would house the coupler and hitch during travel. Did I miss something?
Wow, that must have been a scary situation! I’m glad you were able to safely come to a stop without any major incident. It’s great that you figured out the issue with the coupler tightness, those little adjustments can make a big difference. Regarding the secondary coupler lock, it’s typically a safety feature designed to add an extra layer of security by preventing the coupler from accidentally popping off the hitch. It might not be a standard feature on all setups, though. Have you considered adding a safety chain lock or a hitch coupler latch lock? Those can sometimes serve a similar purpose. I’d be curious to know if anyone else here has suggestions or alternatives that have worked well for them!
@rollinwithrver yes very scary, after I came to a stop I almost puked because I kept thinking of how bad it could have been and thanked GOD several times. I will look into the coupler latch lock. Thank you
Thank you so much for your feedback! I'm glad you found the video helpful, it’s always great to know that the content resonates with both new and experienced RVers. It’s interesting how even seasoned travelers can pick up new tips or refresh their knowledge, especially when it comes to avoiding mistakes that can make or break a trip. For new RVers, these insights can be game-changers in helping them start off on the right foot. What’s one tip or piece of advice you’ve learned during your RVing journey that you think every RVer should know? Let’s keep the conversation going. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
@@rollinwithrver Well, the most simplist things to do are, first check you tow hitch connections. Do not rush through them. Even double check them. It is better to do this, than losing you rig or have a cop pull you over for something. Also, check your distribution of weight in the trailer. The next thing and I think that this is important , " Take you time " Travel at a normal speed or go aa little slower. Don`t be in such a rush. Try to enjoy your vacation.
Installation and proper use of a SWAY BAR AND CROSSING OF THE CHAINS STABILIZES (seen on video), MAKE SURE THAT THE TRAILER HITCH AND BALL ARE SECURE AND TIGHT and SLOWING SPEED IN HIGH WIND AND ROAD CONDITIONS SHOULD save you from accidents. STEADY AS SHE GOES!
Absolutely! You nailed it, proper installation and use of a sway bar, crossing the safety chains, and ensuring the hitch and ball are secure are critical for safe towing. Slowing down in high winds and tough road conditions is also a game-changer. These precautions work together to maintain stability and prevent accidents. Great advice, steady as she goes indeed! 🚐💨
High and crosswinds can make towing extremely dangerous, so finding a safe spot to wait it out is a smart move. It's always better to prioritize safety over sticking to a schedule, your destination will still be there when the wind calms down. Great tip!
THERE'S A BIG PROBLEM WITH OVERDOING ANYTHING OVER TIGHTENING THE LUG NUTS WILL CRACK THE BOLTS AND TURN OVER GREASING THE WHEEL BEARINGS WILL DESTROY THE BRAKE PADS
Absolutely! Overdoing maintenance can be just as harmful as neglecting it. Over-tightening lug nuts, as you mentioned, can crack bolts and lead to serious issues on the road, while over-greasing wheel bearings can wreak havoc on brake pads, compromising stopping power. This highlights the importance of following manufacturer specifications and using the right tools, like a torque wrench or a grease gun with measured output, to avoid overdoing it. What’s your process for finding the right balance? Do you stick strictly to the manual, or have you learned tips over the years to avoid these pitfalls? Let’s hear how others handle this fine line in RV maintenance!
70 YEARS AGO LIVE WHEN MOVING TO BOULDER COLORADO FROM CHICAGO ILLINOIS MY FATHER HAD A STUPID IDEA OF PUTTING MORE WEIGHT AT THE BACK OF THE TRAILER THEN HAVING MORE WEIGHT OR AT LEAST 60% FORWARD OF THE AXLES AND ANYWAYS WE ENDED UP ALL OUR POSSESSIONS WERE TURNED UPSIDE DOWN AND DAMAGED AND WITH JUST THE WIND OF ANOTHER TRUCK GOING BY A TWO-LANE US 36 HIGHWAY BEFORE THE INTERSTATES OUT IN KANSAS THIS WAS NOT A CAMPER BUT A WELL-BUILT MOVING TRAILER BEHIND A 1954 STUDEBAKER CHAMPION WITH 74 HORSEPOWER ON THE ROLLING HILLS OF US 36 OF KANSAS
Wow, what a story, and such an important lesson about weight distribution when towing! It’s amazing how something as seemingly small as where you place the weight can have such a massive impact on safety and control, especially back then on those two-lane highways. That must have been a terrifying experience for your family! Do you think that incident changed how your father approached towing after that? It’s fascinating to hear how towing practices have evolved over the years, especially now with better technology and information available to RVers. Also, since you were towing a moving trailer instead of a camper, I wonder, do you think modern RVers today might still overlook weight distribution as a serious safety factor? What advice would you give to someone new to towing to avoid making the same mistake? I’d love to hear more about how towing and travel felt back then compared to what we have now, your story really brings a unique perspective!
YOUR BREAKAWAY CABLE NEEDS TO BE LONG ENOUGH THAT IF THE HITCH DROPS THE BRAKES DON'T PULL ON WHILE IT'S IN THE CRADLE IT SHOULD ONLY FIRE AFTER THE CRADLE HAS FAILED AND THE TRAILER IS ACTUALLY DISCONNECTED FROM THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY
The breakaway cable is a last-resort safety feature, so it’s essential to ensure it’s set up properly. If the cable is too short and engages prematurely, it could create a dangerous situation. On the other hand, if it’s too long, it might not activate when you actually need it.
SMART RVS REPLACE THE PIN COUPLING THE WHOLE DARN THING WITH THE HIGH GRADE THREADED BOLT AND THEN THEY STILL DRILL A HOLE IN THE BOLT BEYOND WHERE THE NUT WOULD FIT SO WE'RE NOT CAN'T EVEN BACK OFF
That's a brilliant upgrade idea for those who are serious about maximizing safety and durability! Replacing the standard pin with a high-grade threaded bolt and adding an extra safeguard, like drilling for a cotter pin, is a smart way to prevent accidental loosening during travel. This kind of modification raises an interesting question for the community: What other small but impactful upgrades have you made to your RV or towing setup to improve safety and reliability?
That’s a really good point, speeding while towing or driving an RV can be incredibly dangerous, especially when you’re dealing with such a large and heavy vehicle. A lot of people don’t realize how much even small increases in speed can impact stability, braking distance, and overall safety. What do you think is the ideal speed for safe RV travel, especially on highways? Do you have any tips or strategies for staying safe while towing or driving an RV? I’d love to hear more of your perspective on this important topic!
FORGOT ABOUT DANG TRAILERS YOU'RE BETTER OFF IN A MOTORHOME WITH A MOTORHOME YOU GET THE PLUS OF BEING ABLE TO MAKE COFFEE WHILE YOU'RE GOING DOWN THE ROAD AND IT'S ILLEGAL TO BE INSIDE A TRAILER WHILE IT'S GOING DOWN THE ROAD
You bring up two really great points that could spark interesting discussions! For the first one about replacing the pin with a high-grade threaded bolt, that's a smart safety hack. It’s clear you’ve put a lot of thought into securing your setup. Have you found this solution to be a game-changer for long-term durability and safety? What other modifications have you made that you’d recommend to fellow RVers? As for the motorhome versus trailer debate, it’s definitely a hot topic among RVers! The convenience of being able to move around and grab a coffee while traveling in a motorhome is a huge plus, and the legality of not riding in trailers is an important safety concern. But some people love the flexibility of unhitching a trailer and having a separate tow vehicle. What’s your take, motorhome all the way, or does a trailer still have its place depending on the trip? Let’s hear what everyone thinks about this classic RV debate!
That’s a great point! While some of these mistakes may be less common for experienced RVers, they can still catch newcomers off guard, or happen in rare situations when things don’t go as planned. Thanks for pointing that out! Have you ever encountered any of these issues, or are there other rare mistakes you think RVers should watch out for?
What’s the biggest RV mistake you’ve made or seen? I’d love to hear your experiences and how you’ve overcome them! Let’s share some tips and stories to help each other out. 😄
Click here to subscribe: www.youtube.com/@rollinwithrver?sub_confirmation=1
Great video! I learned the hard way about not checking the trailer brakes properly, almost had a disaster on my first trip. Wish I had this guide back then!
Thank you for sharing your experience! Trailer brakes are definitely one of those things that can easily be overlooked but are so crucial for safety. I’m glad you were able to avoid a disaster! Hopefully, this guide helps prevent more stressful moments like that in the future. Do you have any other tips or lessons you’ve learned from your trips? I’m sure other viewers would love to hear them!
nice intro. i see you put in all the hard work with your scripts with warren. keep it up and see you on monday's call.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate the support, it means a lot. Warren and I have been working hard to make these scripts as helpful as possible, so it’s great to hear the effort is paying off. Looking forward to catching up on Monday’s call!
CONSTANTLY TIGHTENING LUG NUTS LEADS TO BREAKING THE BOLTS AND I'VE HAD WHEELS TO SHEAR RIGHT OFF COMPLETELY BECAUSE SOME MECHANIC HAD OVER TIGHTENED
DEFINITELY NEED TO USE A TORQUE WRENCH
You bring up such an important point! Over-tightening lug nuts is a mistake that can lead to serious and even dangerous consequences, like the ones you’ve experienced. Using a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications is absolutely critical for safety and wheel longevity.
ProPride Baby! That and a massive over sized truck for the RV.
And slow down, you are on vacation, you have all day to go nowhere!
Exactly! There's no need to rush, RVing is all about enjoying the journey, not just the destination. Slowing down not only keeps you safer on the road but also lets you soak in the scenery and truly relax.
My xomcern with recommending weight distribution hitches is that there is likely no need for them with smaller campers on full sized tow vehicles and since a lot of these campers are made cheaply for various reasons. Some manufacturers have had frame problems and there is a possibility a WDH could add too much stress to the ffront of the campers frame.
Another good thing to do is after you lock to ypur ball, put the jack down again to make sure you are indeed locked to the ball.
That's a very valid concern! Weight distribution hitches can be beneficial for some setups, but you're absolutely right that they might not be necessary, or even ideal for smaller campers with full-sized tow vehicles. The potential stress they could add to a weaker frame is definitely something to consider, especially with the quality issues some manufacturers face. And your tip about double-checking the hitch connection is spot on! It’s such a simple step but can make a huge difference in ensuring a safe towing experience. Thanks for sharing this valuable advice!
It is true, that now the newer trailer hitches are now frames are made with cheaper and thinner steel. They do bend. Distribution hitches a great for on the highway, but if you go off a pavement road, you should take them off. Never have them on when you go to a campsite on a rough road. With these newer trailers, we should get a large piece of steel welded to the inside of the frame, where it starts to bend at the propane tanks. This would re enforce the frame at the point where it will bend.
Very Informative Video I am Intrasting❤
Thank you so much for your kind words! I really appreciate your feedback and support!
Great video. I recently had the trailer disconnect from truck and luckily we safely came to a stop on the shoulder of the highway. The coupler pin was still in place so we adjusted the tightness of the coupler by adjusting the nut under neath the coupler. You mentioned a secondary coupler lock. I didn't see one that would house the coupler and hitch during travel. Did I miss something?
Wow, that must have been a scary situation! I’m glad you were able to safely come to a stop without any major incident. It’s great that you figured out the issue with the coupler tightness, those little adjustments can make a big difference. Regarding the secondary coupler lock, it’s typically a safety feature designed to add an extra layer of security by preventing the coupler from accidentally popping off the hitch. It might not be a standard feature on all setups, though. Have you considered adding a safety chain lock or a hitch coupler latch lock? Those can sometimes serve a similar purpose. I’d be curious to know if anyone else here has suggestions or alternatives that have worked well for them!
@rollinwithrver yes very scary, after I came to a stop I almost puked because I kept thinking of how bad it could have been and thanked GOD several times. I will look into the coupler latch lock. Thank you
This video is very good for new and old RVers. I also can see who is the sponsor of the video. Amazon.
Thank you so much for your feedback! I'm glad you found the video helpful, it’s always great to know that the content resonates with both new and experienced RVers.
It’s interesting how even seasoned travelers can pick up new tips or refresh their knowledge, especially when it comes to avoiding mistakes that can make or break a trip. For new RVers, these insights can be game-changers in helping them start off on the right foot.
What’s one tip or piece of advice you’ve learned during your RVing journey that you think every RVer should know? Let’s keep the conversation going. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
@@rollinwithrver Well, the most simplist things to do are, first check you tow hitch connections. Do not rush through them. Even double check them. It is better to do this, than losing you rig or have a cop pull you over for something. Also, check your distribution of weight in the trailer. The next thing and I think that this is important , " Take you time " Travel at a normal speed or go aa little slower. Don`t be in such a rush. Try to enjoy your vacation.
Installation and proper use of a SWAY BAR AND CROSSING OF THE CHAINS STABILIZES (seen on video), MAKE SURE THAT THE TRAILER HITCH AND BALL ARE SECURE AND TIGHT and SLOWING SPEED IN HIGH WIND AND ROAD CONDITIONS SHOULD save you from accidents.
STEADY AS SHE GOES!
In high/cross wind situations i would suggest getting off the road in a safe spot and waiting it out.
Absolutely! You nailed it, proper installation and use of a sway bar, crossing the safety chains, and ensuring the hitch and ball are secure are critical for safe towing. Slowing down in high winds and tough road conditions is also a game-changer. These precautions work together to maintain stability and prevent accidents. Great advice, steady as she goes indeed! 🚐💨
High and crosswinds can make towing extremely dangerous, so finding a safe spot to wait it out is a smart move. It's always better to prioritize safety over sticking to a schedule, your destination will still be there when the wind calms down. Great tip!
@@colinl9018 Also, if you can, park under a over pass.
Get a ProPride hitch!!!
Great suggestion! A ProPride hitch can definitely make a difference in towing stability and safety.
THERE'S A BIG PROBLEM WITH OVERDOING ANYTHING OVER TIGHTENING THE LUG NUTS WILL CRACK THE BOLTS AND TURN OVER GREASING THE WHEEL BEARINGS WILL DESTROY THE BRAKE PADS
Absolutely! Overdoing maintenance can be just as harmful as neglecting it. Over-tightening lug nuts, as you mentioned, can crack bolts and lead to serious issues on the road, while over-greasing wheel bearings can wreak havoc on brake pads, compromising stopping power.
This highlights the importance of following manufacturer specifications and using the right tools, like a torque wrench or a grease gun with measured output, to avoid overdoing it.
What’s your process for finding the right balance? Do you stick strictly to the manual, or have you learned tips over the years to avoid these pitfalls? Let’s hear how others handle this fine line in RV maintenance!
70 YEARS AGO LIVE WHEN MOVING TO BOULDER COLORADO FROM CHICAGO ILLINOIS MY FATHER HAD A STUPID IDEA OF PUTTING MORE WEIGHT AT THE BACK OF THE TRAILER THEN HAVING MORE WEIGHT OR AT LEAST 60% FORWARD OF THE AXLES AND ANYWAYS WE ENDED UP ALL OUR POSSESSIONS WERE TURNED UPSIDE DOWN AND DAMAGED AND WITH JUST THE WIND OF ANOTHER TRUCK GOING BY A TWO-LANE US 36 HIGHWAY BEFORE THE INTERSTATES OUT IN KANSAS
THIS WAS NOT A CAMPER BUT A WELL-BUILT MOVING TRAILER BEHIND A 1954 STUDEBAKER CHAMPION WITH 74 HORSEPOWER ON THE ROLLING HILLS OF US 36 OF KANSAS
Wow, what a story, and such an important lesson about weight distribution when towing! It’s amazing how something as seemingly small as where you place the weight can have such a massive impact on safety and control, especially back then on those two-lane highways. That must have been a terrifying experience for your family!
Do you think that incident changed how your father approached towing after that? It’s fascinating to hear how towing practices have evolved over the years, especially now with better technology and information available to RVers.
Also, since you were towing a moving trailer instead of a camper, I wonder, do you think modern RVers today might still overlook weight distribution as a serious safety factor? What advice would you give to someone new to towing to avoid making the same mistake?
I’d love to hear more about how towing and travel felt back then compared to what we have now, your story really brings a unique perspective!
YOUR BREAKAWAY CABLE NEEDS TO BE LONG ENOUGH THAT IF THE HITCH DROPS THE BRAKES DON'T PULL ON WHILE IT'S IN THE CRADLE
IT SHOULD ONLY FIRE AFTER THE CRADLE HAS FAILED AND THE TRAILER IS ACTUALLY DISCONNECTED FROM THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY
The breakaway cable is a last-resort safety feature, so it’s essential to ensure it’s set up properly. If the cable is too short and engages prematurely, it could create a dangerous situation. On the other hand, if it’s too long, it might not activate when you actually need it.
SMART RVS REPLACE THE PIN COUPLING THE WHOLE DARN THING WITH THE HIGH GRADE THREADED BOLT AND THEN THEY STILL DRILL A HOLE IN THE BOLT BEYOND WHERE THE NUT WOULD FIT SO WE'RE NOT CAN'T EVEN BACK OFF
That's a brilliant upgrade idea for those who are serious about maximizing safety and durability! Replacing the standard pin with a high-grade threaded bolt and adding an extra safeguard, like drilling for a cotter pin, is a smart way to prevent accidental loosening during travel.
This kind of modification raises an interesting question for the community: What other small but impactful upgrades have you made to your RV or towing setup to improve safety and reliability?
Driver was Speeding for that RV any sp need over 60mphr. Is speeding.
That’s a really good point, speeding while towing or driving an RV can be incredibly dangerous, especially when you’re dealing with such a large and heavy vehicle. A lot of people don’t realize how much even small increases in speed can impact stability, braking distance, and overall safety.
What do you think is the ideal speed for safe RV travel, especially on highways? Do you have any tips or strategies for staying safe while towing or driving an RV? I’d love to hear more of your perspective on this important topic!
One big no no in this video it never twist the chains to shorten them up it lowers the rating of the chains.
This is a critical detail often overlooked, so thank you for bringing it up!
@rollinwithrver no problem never want to find out the hard way.
FORGOT ABOUT DANG TRAILERS YOU'RE BETTER OFF IN A MOTORHOME WITH A MOTORHOME YOU GET THE PLUS OF BEING ABLE TO MAKE COFFEE WHILE YOU'RE GOING DOWN THE ROAD AND IT'S ILLEGAL TO BE INSIDE A TRAILER WHILE IT'S GOING DOWN THE ROAD
You bring up two really great points that could spark interesting discussions!
For the first one about replacing the pin with a high-grade threaded bolt, that's a smart safety hack. It’s clear you’ve put a lot of thought into securing your setup. Have you found this solution to be a game-changer for long-term durability and safety? What other modifications have you made that you’d recommend to fellow RVers?
As for the motorhome versus trailer debate, it’s definitely a hot topic among RVers! The convenience of being able to move around and grab a coffee while traveling in a motorhome is a huge plus, and the legality of not riding in trailers is an important safety concern. But some people love the flexibility of unhitching a trailer and having a separate tow vehicle.
What’s your take, motorhome all the way, or does a trailer still have its place depending on the trip? Let’s hear what everyone thinks about this classic RV debate!
It's not common it's rare
That’s a great point! While some of these mistakes may be less common for experienced RVers, they can still catch newcomers off guard, or happen in rare situations when things don’t go as planned. Thanks for pointing that out! Have you ever encountered any of these issues, or are there other rare mistakes you think RVers should watch out for?