I have my eyes all over when I drive. I want to know where every vehicle is around me and coming at all times. What I have set up in our RV is just above my dash gauges directly in front are 3 small 7"monitors side by size with the centre ont moted vertically on a Custom bracket I made. Left is connected to a left side camera, the right to right side camera and a rear view camera mounted above my tow camera. I have no blind spots and I dont have to take my eyes off the road to see everything around us and whats coming up behind me, greatest upgrade I ever done.
This video is MUST SEE for ALL drivers! If drivers would follow these simple, common sense rules we would all be a lot safer on the roads!! Thanks so much for posting this!!!
Thank you for taking the time to make this video! I learned a lot from your post and now I know a lot more about all the road driving. Very informative. Thanks appreciate it safe driving. Joe
I drive a 43' DP and totally agree with all your points. The last one particularly resonated with me. I can't believe how careless people are when merging onto a highway. Most don't look and anticipate what's coming at them. I try to stay in the center lane if there is one, but lots of times there is only the right lane for me to drive in. It is lucky for drivers that are merging that I look out for stupid moves.
Excellent information, much is common sense but then again, not a lot of drivers have common sense. As a school bus driver, all your tips are top notch and correct. Thank you.
Good stuff. Brakes work by converting rotational energy into heat. If you ride the brakes and as he says, "smoke them", you can no longer transfer that heat to the cooling air fast enough. You must allow the brakes to cool periodically. Modern anti-lock brakes 'pump' for you. However, if you ride the brake for any distance, it will overheat. Brake hard and allow the anti-lock to work then take your foot off and allow them to cool. They have emergency run-off ramps in the mountains because of smoked brakes. As a retired paramedic, I can assure you most accidents were caused by selfish insensitive drivers not yielding . This forces other drivers to do things such as swerving without looking or getting mad and slaloming through traffic to get around some slowpoke in the left lane. Agree 100% on ppl not understanding a high speed merge and right of way. Also, if there is an emergency vehicle approaching from the rear, pull over the right, slow down and allow them to pass. If there's no room and the guy to your block didn't read this, sit tight but under NO circumstances, pull into the median. Don't do it! Emergency vehicles in most states are allowed and required by law to pass on the left only. If they pass on the right, such as riding the shoulder and you turn into them its their fault. If traffic is blocked, THEY- not you, can pass across the centerline. They have emergency beacons and a siren and are authorized to do this. You don't. When following, use the 3 second rule to maintain a minimum safe braking distance. As you approach a sign or object next to the vehicle ahead, you should be able to count to 3 before you pass it. If someone slips in between, that's ok-- slip back and adjust. When turning, the centrifugal force wants to move you to the outside of the curve. Enter curves closer to the inside of your lane and allow a straighter path through the curve to maintain better control. This prevents the body from wanting to roll to the outside and put force on the front outside wheel instead of keeping the sprung weight back balanced so you can steer. During a panic brake, the nose wants to dive as the sprung weight is forwards. The rear wants to raise up. This takes away steering control and power to rear axle drives. When entering curves, fall into the curve on the inside edge as above with you foot off the brake and maintain your speed--don't brake or slow down. As you move straighter through the curve apply power and you'll maintain better control as you power through the outside of the curve. You'll maintain control. Braking removes power and control. It's the worst thing to do in a curve. I have a bit of a problem with his driving under the speed limit in the middle lane concept. You are forcing everyone to swerve around you and get get more zoomers up your rear. When possible, ride the right lane if you want to drive under the limit. I maintain an awareness of traffic and ask myself am I helping the flow or contributing to the problem. I like his use of technology to plan ahead so you can anticipate which lane to be in. Note his use of a navigator to assist in cities. If there are two of you and the other is in the dinghy car this won't work as well. Consider using radios between cars. HTH
@@FreedomTours . It seems to be a forbidden question to ask, but I’ll try you. We are thinking of getting a Class A to travel for retirement in a couple of years. If I spend $200K for a good used Class A, and get it inspected before purchase, what would be a good guess over a five year average of what maintenance would cost on a diesel pusher. $5K? $10K? Just curious your thoughts
@@FreedomTours . Oil changes, generator service, etc, yes. I have been a automotive Bodyman my whole life, and feel like I could handle even some of the other minor stuff related to the actual cabin, but I wouldn’t be able to do any of the electrical stuff. I feel I’d be nervous to do that.
thanks man, im actually planning on owning a C40LF transportation bus next year & changing it into an rv for vacation, i appreciate the advice so i wont cause accidents 😂
I used to travel for work to 3 states. I found some of the things you talked about like lane merging to vary by state. Then we moved to a new town within the same state and I realized the traffic behavior was different in that new town than our old one. The new one thought mergers should have right of way. Man, my husband and I had a time getting used to this change in traffic behavior. Anyway, I get it! LOL! Thanks for sharing.
LMcBurney that’s just crazy ... where, may I ask, did you move to where people think that mergers have the right away? Btw, thanks so much for the comment! Please consider subscribing and hitting the bell! I have part two of this coming out next Thursday and you won’t want to miss it lol
Good info Johnny. Had to laugh earlier, I told you about my husband being a tractor trailer driver, we arrived at the RV park, my husband went to park our 3 month old Motorhome, he kept turning the steering wheel the wrong way..... he's so use to the tractor trailer! LOL Love our new washer and dryer! Thank you for the info. GOD Bless 🙏
Thank you for providing such great information and such great detail. This is very helpful. You communicate in a way that is helpful for someone who doesn't have as much experience as you do. Much appreciated!
Great video, Johnny. Very informative and enjoyable. It's also fun looking out the window at the scenery while you talk. Thanks for some really helpful info. I will subscribe.
Tip number 10. Thank you! I live in a central Indiana town where people use the left lane for general driving. Its gotten so popular now that the driving lane (right lane) is now the passing lane! Lol.
Very informative video. All of it is just common sense to most of us, but you'd never know it by seeing how far too many drive - not just with motorhomes but in general. We're a semi-retired early-60s couple about to buy our first motorhome, hopefully about a 32-footer. Even after driving for over 45 years (each) we realize there are things about driving a motorhome (tail swing, longer stopping distances, height considerations, etiquette, etc.) that we need to be mindful of and prepared for. Anything else that we may need to be aware of besides what you've already covered? (Footnote: I've since found and viewed your tips #11 through #20 video. Pretty certain I now have to watch all of them...)
If you pass through Spokane WA, there are signs saying "Left Lane Thru Traffic". This means, it is not a passing lane, but a lane to maintain the speed limit through town while the middle and right lane are for getting on/off the interstate. Right lane when you are getting off, middle when you have a while to your exit. Please don't block the visibility of those lanes. When you get out of town, get back over. Thanks.
We just bought our first motorhome, a 40’ Allegro Bus and this video has been incredibly helpful, thank you! Also I 2nd the use of Waze, my go to travel app but won’t route trips over 1k miles so Google maps is the back up
Great tips! I use the 9 second rule in checking mirrors, as I too have driven semi's in the past. I tend to use my e-brake more than your mentioned, sometimes even in town, thus saving brake pads over the long term. I do only have a single stage exhaust brake rather than a dual state, which on trucks I've driven, the dual stage would be my choice, for those truly 'steep' grades, as a 10% - 11% downgrade IS steep! We use the Garmin 770 GPS which is similar to yours, where you select all your coaches info. I also use Google Maps, which has the ability to use WAZE, but often just rely on the Garmin, as it too adds telling us about stops/slowdowns etc. I have a Tiffin with 'dual' air horns, and yes I use them as you do! My wife doesn't like it...but 'oh well'! Agreed as well on the merging...as when the interstate traffic is doing 60mph, that's the speed merging traffic should be up to, as they slide into your lane! How about those folks, that pass you and nearly clip your front end moving in front of you? Why could they not have moved up in the fast lane giving you two or three car lengths, like most truckers do? Then, those that nearly clip you....leave their right signal on and continue on to the merging/exit lane to your right! They can't see what's coming up on their right, as they're right in front of you, but they slide over anyway...figuring they have the right away...and/or will miss the exit if they don't get over now! Crazy, but as good drivers, it's important to pass on this information so others can watch for it! Good video btw!
Agreed, I'll typically have the engine brakes on anywhere except in town/traffic. If I get a pace set or use cruise I switch it off, but it gets turned on again before I touch the brake pedal
Wonderful tips! I’m saving this one for reference when we eventually upsize...we are now full time in the 28 foot motor home and doing fine, but definitely going to upsize in a year or less. Jane
I know this is a silly question but I'm new to diesel pushers. What are those two buttons on each side of the steering wheel above the cruise control buttons. They look like they have something to do with lights?
Great video, thanks. Amen to #10 & #11. I was stationed in Germany and drove all over Europe. Most Europeans are religious about keeping right except to pass. Contrast that with I-95 with 90% of the traffic in the far left lane. And I don't think your average driver has a clue what the word "yield" means.
Wow the best tip you gave here was awesome about mergers they're supposed to yield I had an argument with some co-workers one time they thought the mergers had the right why when it's at its the traffic that's moving already has the right away The funny thing is my coworker damaged my car while he was merging onto the freewaythe police officer said to my co-worker maybe you need to learn the law if you don't want to be wrong about something he got a ticket for over five hundred bucks
Johnny I will have to say this is some of the best info I have seen on driving, I have a class A CDL as well drive the truck daily and my diesel pusher on the weekends.Everyone should watch this video a lot of good tips here. Had to laugh when you were talking about merging traffic and not going,that is one of my biggest gripes at work and at play. Safe travels‘s.
Kevin Melvin wow! That really means a lot coming from you! I can’t wait for you to see the next video that is the continuation of this video. In it, I discuss the relationship between RV drivers and Big Rig drivers... thanks for taking the time to leave a comment! Please subscribe and hit the bell so you get the next one coming Thursday!
Love the passion. All good information. Not sure what kind of rig I will end up purchasing in a couple years, but I have to say...those pushers are a little skeery!!! lol :-) Thanks so much & looking forward to the next video. Blessings!
Thanks for these tips. I hope to buy a motorhome in a couple of years and have never driven anything but a car and a pick up truck. I hope to be aware of what I need to know before I buy
Terrific set of videos Johnny. I have learned while doing in my 34 foot diesel pusher over the past 2 years and wish I'd seen your videos earlier! One question for you - when it comes to signaling truck drivers by flashing your lights, what's the sequence? Is it one flash to pass and two flashes you're ok to merge? Thanks.
jhal50 there really isn’t a sequence per day but I only flash the fronts when I’m letting them know they are clear to come back over... I flash my tail lights when I’m letting them know that I’m grateful they told me I was clear to come back over after passing them as well! I never flash to let someone know I’m passing them. That’s more of a European thing.
Most RVs don't have an interrupt button like the tractors, but I feel like it's a preference thing on how you flash to signal. I've seen a rig blink like strobes to thank another guy for letting him change lanes in a heavy traffic situation. Also seen the opposite, no signal no interrupt.. kindness goes really far on a highway
Really enjoyed the video. I especially enjoyed your graphics and transitions!! Can you share where you get those and/or what editing program you use? I would love to use these on our channel. Keep up the good work.
Another point regarding the acceleration lane. It is actually designed and named acceleration lane for a reason. It is intended for all drivers to accelerate up to the traffic speed before merging.
"Trucks must NOT be in that lane...THey'll get a ticket"... just as a truck passes by in that lane :-D I know, I know, you were talking about in the city, but still funny timing.
Merging cars that don’t just press on the long skinny pedal are my pet peeve. I find myself begging them to just hit that pedal and GO! They usually just match my speed and I know that they are going to get to the end of the merging lane and then want to finally come over, but then they are right beside me, so what I end up having to do is slow my roll so that they stay ahead of me, which sux having to do in a 33000 lb vehicle that takes 30 seconds and a gallon of fuel to get up to speed.
Hats off to being a CDL A (professional) driver! I just got be B and really appreciate what I've learned. Meanwhile oh Heck yeah and Halleluiah re #10 - Left Lane Is For PASSING!! In Germany, if you hog the left lane, you were taught a lesson. And you didn't NOT get it.
yes...as I said in the video the middle lane is the "passing lane" for truckers. So, as stated, you should only be there if there are no trucks behind you. Thanks for the comment. Safe travels.
@@musclecars4635 really no vehicle should ever just camp out in the passing lane… however, in the case of coming through cities where there will be sudden traffic merging, as long as there are no trucks being stuck behind you, I personally find it safer to be in the middle lane.
@@FreedomTours if I can’t move over quick enough, I put my turn signal on anyway to at least show the oncoming trucker I am trying to move out of his way.
One of the major reasons some folks drive in the left lane on some sections of interstate is because excessively heavy trucks have damaged the right lane to the point that it’s just entirely too rough to drive on. This is probably why your rig is rattling so badly, it’s being pounded to death. You’ve got an earthquake on wheels.
#11 drives me crazy! 😂🤪 Then I drive Ken crazy when I swear at the merging drivers who bunch up and leave no room for me in the right lane.....errrrrrrr!🤬 Mergers should leave a gap between cars...common sense, common courtesy, is all too uncommon! Anyway...thanks again....loved this video👍 Jane
Full Time Freedom Tour I learned in Texas that the drivers don’t merge onto the interstate. You’re expected to move over and let them in. On ramps are ridiculously short too!
My wife and I are going to hit the road soon to see America. I would love to purchase a 42 to 45 foot motorhome. I have a Grand Cherokee that can be flat towed. I'm 65 years of age and my wife and I love the room at 45" would give us. We now live in Alabama and her family lives in Washington State with family between here to their. I plan to live the rest of my years on the road . I have heard that tag Axles handle trucks blowing you off the road as they pass you . Also they the frame can haul more weight. One things I have learned is with a wife it better to have that other 1/2 bath . I will have to purchase a used because I limited or I would just purchase a new motorhome. I'm thinking cost wise maybe from $148k to $220K . I would like to stay close to a 2011 or 2012 as far as year goes. She and I love the room that the larger motorhome offers. Can you advise me on what I might be doing wrong ? I have worked hard all my life and wish to spend the later years doing what I have always wanted to do. I guess you already know that this is what she wishes to do also. Just I do not know all the answers but have been spending a lot of time reading. and watching youtube site like yours. I have watched a lot you guys videos. Thanks so much ! ! Jeff
Hey Jeff! Thanks for the questions! Gale and I are supper excited for you. The market that we are in currently has all motorhomes way over priced. For instance we bought our 2011 Winnebago Tour for under 150k now this same coach is running closer to 200k. That being said, I think you are doing exactly as you should. A used 2010-13 will be right in your price range. I would primarily look at Winnebago, Tiffan, Integra and Newmar as far as manufactures. Let us know about any coach your looking at and we would be more than happy to give you our two cents. Blessings, Johnny & Gale Rowlett
Sometimes that "truck lane" on the mountains does not appear like a lane, it just looks like a large shoulder. The mountains are the only place where it might be ok to drive on what looks like the "shoulder"
Excellent production. May I ask a question: Can you make the segments longer? In this role, you are a teacher and we in the audience are your students. We are here because we want to learn from you. Take your time and teach us well!
Going up a hill you should expect eighteens to be much slower that your little bus. Its obvious to me and anyone with lots of experience you were a company driver and a wheel holder. Forgot to mention roadway. Was it roadway? Btw I am an instructor at the largest truck driver school in the USA. we are located adjacent to the fair grounds here in Tampa. Imo every rv over 30 ft should have to acquire a cdl.
Whats all that rattling? My Prevost doesn't do that. From my experience, regardless of speed limit, i always run 1 mph less. Going as slow as u r, you cause yourself to be an obstacle. Going down hill you grab a lower gear and set up your speed before descending. Monitoring the radio will give you better about any parking lots ahead.
I have the latest Garmin RV GPS and it didn’t reroute us around the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore! Insane! (Yes We updated all maps). Calling Garmin today.
Great advice on the merge - in Minnesota merge is another word for "barge" - many MN drivers don't even believe they don't have to yield, as a matter of fact I've had Minnesota drivers in my care tell me the mainline traffic is required to yield, so why didn't I let that car/truck into traffic. What is wrong with people?
Brad Putney you literally made me laugh out loud with the whole Barge instead of Merge ...😝... folks is crazy 😜... btw, thanks for taking the time to leave a comment and subscribe... so cool!
@@FreedomTours you're welcome. We have put "become digital nomads" in our 5 year plan so I am starting to think about diesel pushers as a rolling office/home. Thanks much.
Yup...had a car travel in the breakdown lane about a 1/2 mile because I couldn't get over and then called the co. on me...they told me it happens all the time...
Oh I love this! Yes people the GAS is on the right! So much information in this video. I drive a gas 33' FR3. I can't believe how stupid people are. I'm glad to know that I am doing all of these things you have said. I haven't had any formal training but driving is common sense! Bless you.
So funny, 90% of the time I have to use the air horn is due to topic #11. People completely obtuse to what it means to merge on a highway. I have scared the Sh** out of people and seen some classic reactions to my horn...thrown cell phones (this dude was literally on a cell phone while merging in busy Detroit traffic, as if the road conditions arent bad enough in Michigan), spilled drinks is a good one too. :)
Yea most of these tips are great for every driver not just RVers. The one thing I would take exception to is using cruise while climbing a long steep grade. I personally recommend not doing this. I would also recommend shifting to a lower gear, even if you're in a car, as to not lug the engine.
Great info. But, in the right lane as you approach the people getting on the freeway on the entrance there is a yield sign on your right telling you, BY LAW, to yield to them getting on the freeway. Yeah they should be going freeway speed before they merge on the freeway but way to often they aren't. But by no means are they supposed to yield to the freeway.
Ed Dillard 100% incorrect! I’m not sure where you live but in no United States interstates are there EVER yield signs to the driver already on the freeway! They are ALWAYS on the driver getting on! Thanks for your input. I appreciate the comment 😀
Great info, even with the constant sweak from somewhere and that you were yelling the whole time. If you use a script, which means you are not driving, and recorded cut scenes to show what you mean, your video would have a great impact. Just my opinion of course.
@@FreedomTours Great video! A lot of good advice, I too prefer the center lane. Crabby David has NO videos on his channel(I always look when I encounter a TH-cam critic- Lol) Safe travels. Our 2003 Newmar Dutch Star 39' DP has a few squeaks but no loan. Lol
+Ulrik Harvest in that coach all we had were lap belts and we had them on... new coach new belts! Now you can rest at night again lol... thanks for the reminder !
Going under the speed limit should be avoided in moderate to heavy traffic. It causes passing congestion which can lead to aggravated drivers passing on the right and making other unsafe maneuvers to get past you. Go the speed limit unless you are overtaken less than once every 30 seconds. Once you have 4 cars per minute passing you, you need to definitely be going the speed limit.
Also please edit the name Manuel brakes ; the correct name should be air brakes and engine brakes which at the same time comes in two forms: Jacobs engine brake and exhaust brake… two different animals that do the same thing, thanks . Manuel is a male name; I know manual is what you meant but there is no such manual brake unless you are referring to a vehicle in which a brake is operated by a hand 🤚
I have my eyes all over when I drive. I want to know where every vehicle is around me and coming at all times. What I have set up in our RV is just above my dash gauges directly in front are 3 small 7"monitors side by size with the centre ont moted vertically on a Custom bracket I made. Left is connected to a left side camera, the right to right side camera and a rear view camera mounted above my tow camera. I have no blind spots and I dont have to take my eyes off the road to see everything around us and whats coming up behind me, greatest upgrade I ever done.
Great advice! So much of this applies to all drivers, not just trucks or RVs.
Gricha C great point! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
This video is MUST SEE for ALL drivers! If drivers would follow these simple, common sense rules we would all be a lot safer on the roads!! Thanks so much for posting this!!!
Thanks for taking the time to leave a positive comment!
Thank you for taking the time to make this video! I learned a lot from your post and now I know a lot more about all the road driving. Very informative. Thanks appreciate it safe driving. Joe
Wow! Thanks for the kind comment!
Great video Johnny. A lot of information only truck drivers know but RV drivers should know.
Jerry Branscomb maybe that would have been a better title lol... I can’t wait for you to see part 2 ... I talk about “being good to truckers”.
I drive a 43' DP and totally agree with all your points. The last one particularly resonated with me. I can't believe how careless people are when merging onto a highway. Most don't look and anticipate what's coming at them. I try to stay in the center lane if there is one, but lots of times there is only the right lane for me to drive in. It is lucky for drivers that are merging that I look out for stupid moves.
I’m watching this video on Labor Day weekend
Thank you, wife and I bought a 01' Monaco Diplomat.
Excellent tips. Should be required reading/ viewing for ALL- not just rig drivers. Many thanks!!
Crystalistener thanks so much! That’s very sweet! I agree totally!
Excellent information, much is common sense but then again, not a lot of drivers have common sense. As a school bus driver, all your tips are top notch and correct. Thank you.
Thanks sir! That means a lot! Thanks for keeping our kids safe! Bless you!!!
Good stuff.
Brakes work by converting rotational energy into heat. If you ride the brakes and as he says, "smoke them", you can no longer transfer that heat to the cooling air fast enough. You must allow the brakes to cool periodically. Modern anti-lock brakes 'pump' for you. However, if you ride the brake for any distance, it will overheat. Brake hard and allow the anti-lock to work then take your foot off and allow them to cool. They have emergency run-off ramps in the mountains because of smoked brakes.
As a retired paramedic, I can assure you most accidents were caused by selfish insensitive drivers not yielding . This forces other drivers to do things such as swerving without looking or getting mad and slaloming through traffic to get around some slowpoke in the left lane. Agree 100% on ppl not understanding a high speed merge and right of way. Also, if there is an emergency vehicle approaching from the rear, pull over the right, slow down and allow them to pass. If there's no room and the guy to your block didn't read this, sit tight but under NO circumstances, pull into the median. Don't do it! Emergency vehicles in most states are allowed and required by law to pass on the left only. If they pass on the right, such as riding the shoulder and you turn into them its their fault. If traffic is blocked, THEY- not you, can pass across the centerline. They have emergency beacons and a siren and are authorized to do this. You don't.
When following, use the 3 second rule to maintain a minimum safe braking distance. As you approach a sign or object next to the vehicle ahead, you should be able to count to 3 before you pass it. If someone slips in between, that's ok-- slip back and adjust.
When turning, the centrifugal force wants to move you to the outside of the curve. Enter curves closer to the inside of your lane and allow a straighter path through the curve to maintain better control. This prevents the body from wanting to roll to the outside and put force on the front outside wheel instead of keeping the sprung weight back balanced so you can steer.
During a panic brake, the nose wants to dive as the sprung weight is forwards. The rear wants to raise up. This takes away steering control and power to rear axle drives.
When entering curves, fall into the curve on the inside edge as above with you foot off the brake and maintain your speed--don't brake or slow down. As you move straighter through the curve apply power and you'll maintain better control as you power through the outside of the curve. You'll maintain control. Braking removes power and control. It's the worst thing to do in a curve.
I have a bit of a problem with his driving under the speed limit in the middle lane concept. You are forcing everyone to swerve around you and get get more zoomers up your rear. When possible, ride the right lane if you want to drive under the limit.
I maintain an awareness of traffic and ask myself am I helping the flow or contributing to the problem.
I like his use of technology to plan ahead so you can anticipate which lane to be in. Note his use of a navigator to assist in cities. If there are two of you and the other is in the dinghy car this won't work as well. Consider using radios between cars.
HTH
Hearthman1159 good info
Absolutely great job. Most of that needs to be said about every week until people figure it out. Good job!
Thanks so much!
@@FreedomTours . It seems to be a forbidden question to ask, but I’ll try you. We are thinking of getting a Class A to travel for retirement in a couple of years. If I spend $200K for a good used Class A, and get it inspected before purchase, what would be a good guess over a five year average of what maintenance would cost on a diesel pusher. $5K? $10K? Just curious your thoughts
Those $5K and $10K are yearly annual costs, not a total over five years
@@garyjones5093 such a good question. Let me ask you this, are you able to do any of your own maintenance?
@@FreedomTours . Oil changes, generator service, etc, yes. I have been a automotive Bodyman my whole life, and feel like I could handle even some of the other minor stuff related to the actual cabin, but I wouldn’t be able to do any of the electrical stuff. I feel I’d be nervous to do that.
thanks man, im actually planning on owning a C40LF transportation bus next year & changing it into an rv for vacation, i appreciate the advice so i wont cause accidents 😂
I used to travel for work to 3 states. I found some of the things you talked about like lane merging to vary by state. Then we moved to a new town within the same state and I realized the traffic behavior was different in that new town than our old one. The new one thought mergers should have right of way. Man, my husband and I had a time getting used to this change in traffic behavior. Anyway, I get it! LOL! Thanks for sharing.
LMcBurney that’s just crazy ... where, may I ask, did you move to where people think that mergers have the right away? Btw, thanks so much for the comment! Please consider subscribing and hitting the bell! I have part two of this coming out next Thursday and you won’t want to miss it lol
@@FreedomTours We moved to Peoria, IL.
Good info Johnny. Had to laugh earlier, I told you about my husband being a tractor trailer driver, we arrived at the RV park, my husband went to park our 3 month old Motorhome, he kept turning the steering wheel the wrong way..... he's so use to the tractor trailer! LOL
Love our new washer and dryer!
Thank you for the info.
GOD Bless 🙏
Cindy Rose that’s hilarious! Thanks for watching! I appreciate y’all!
I was also Class A Trucker and did the same thing, even in my van before I got my RV.
Jerry Branscomb too funny!!
Thank you for providing such great information and such great detail. This is very helpful. You communicate in a way that is helpful for someone who doesn't have as much experience as you do. Much appreciated!
Ravi Gehlot that’s so kind! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
Thank You...Great stuff!
Thanks so much!
Thank you for taking time to do this video. It will help many people.
56 Chevy and thank you for taking the time to leave a comment!
Regarding tip number 11, absolutely!!! Merge like you mean it.
Great video, Johnny. Very informative and enjoyable. It's also fun looking out the window at the scenery while you talk. Thanks for some really helpful info. I will subscribe.
Wow! Thanks so much! Very kind!
Thanks for the safety tips, I agree completely, although I did not see a seatbelts ,😅
Tip number 10. Thank you! I live in a central Indiana town where people use the left lane for general driving. Its gotten so popular now that the driving lane (right lane) is now the passing lane! Lol.
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment
Very informative video. All of it is just common sense to most of us, but you'd never know it by seeing how far too many drive - not just with motorhomes but in general. We're a semi-retired early-60s couple about to buy our first motorhome, hopefully about a 32-footer. Even after driving for over 45 years (each) we realize there are things about driving a motorhome (tail swing, longer stopping distances, height considerations, etiquette, etc.) that we need to be mindful of and prepared for. Anything else that we may need to be aware of besides what you've already covered? (Footnote: I've since found and viewed your tips #11 through #20 video. Pretty certain I now have to watch all of them...)
If you pass through Spokane WA, there are signs saying "Left Lane Thru Traffic". This means, it is not a passing lane, but a lane to maintain the speed limit through town while the middle and right lane are for getting on/off the interstate. Right lane when you are getting off, middle when you have a while to your exit. Please don't block the visibility of those lanes. When you get out of town, get back over. Thanks.
We just bought our first motorhome, a 40’ Allegro Bus and this video has been incredibly helpful, thank you! Also I 2nd the use of Waze, my go to travel app but won’t route trips over 1k miles so Google maps is the back up
Glad it was helpful!
All great driving tips. Not only for RV operators but regular vehicles. These driving tips should be part of new driver training.
I certainly hope they are helpful
Great tips! I use the 9 second rule in checking mirrors, as I too have driven semi's in the past. I tend to use my e-brake more than your mentioned, sometimes even in town, thus saving brake pads over the long term. I do only have a single stage exhaust brake rather than a dual state, which on trucks I've driven, the dual stage would be my choice, for those truly 'steep' grades, as a 10% - 11% downgrade IS steep! We use the Garmin 770 GPS which is similar to yours, where you select all your coaches info. I also use Google Maps, which has the ability to use WAZE, but often just rely on the Garmin, as it too adds telling us about stops/slowdowns etc. I have a Tiffin with 'dual' air horns, and yes I use them as you do! My wife doesn't like it...but 'oh well'! Agreed as well on the merging...as when the interstate traffic is doing 60mph, that's the speed merging traffic should be up to, as they slide into your lane! How about those folks, that pass you and nearly clip your front end moving in front of you? Why could they not have moved up in the fast lane giving you two or three car lengths, like most truckers do? Then, those that nearly clip you....leave their right signal on and continue on to the merging/exit lane to your right! They can't see what's coming up on their right, as they're right in front of you, but they slide over anyway...figuring they have the right away...and/or will miss the exit if they don't get over now! Crazy, but as good drivers, it's important to pass on this information so others can watch for it! Good video btw!
Dale Watkins great input! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment!
Agreed, I'll typically have the engine brakes on anywhere except in town/traffic. If I get a pace set or use cruise I switch it off, but it gets turned on again before I touch the brake pedal
Wonderful tips! I’m saving this one for reference when we eventually upsize...we are now full time in the 28 foot motor home and doing fine, but definitely going to upsize in a year or less.
Jane
28 foot is great practice... Cant wait to see what y'all upgrade to.
I know this is a silly question but I'm new to diesel pushers. What are those two buttons on each side of the steering wheel above the cruise control buttons. They look like they have something to do with lights?
I’ll check it out and let you know.
@@FreedomTours I found out. They are curtesy flash
you guys are the best.Thanks Johnny for all u do
Green Rush wow, thanks so much ! I appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for telling people to get the hell out of the passing lane.
Jeffrey Martin such a problem right? Lol
Excellent! All good stuff. Thank you - I think I will watch it again. :)
Duckyboy6972 thanks so much!!! There is a part 2 btw.
Thank you very much for all the valuable information. Great work!!
Sig Berg thanks so much! We appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment
Great video, thanks. Amen to #10 & #11. I was stationed in Germany and drove all over Europe. Most Europeans are religious about keeping right except to pass. Contrast that with I-95 with 90% of the traffic in the far left lane. And I don't think your average driver has a clue what the word "yield" means.
Jack McGonegal yea, no doubt lol... thanks so much for leaving a comment!
Wow the best tip you gave here was awesome about mergers they're supposed to yield
I had an argument with some co-workers one time they thought the mergers had the right why when it's at its the traffic that's moving already has the right away
The funny thing is my coworker damaged my car while he was merging onto the freewaythe police officer said to my co-worker maybe you need to learn the law if you don't want to be wrong about something he got a ticket for over five hundred bucks
Wow! Thats crazy! Lessons are hard to learn sometimes lol
Appreciate the info.
Good tips, thanks for sharing! 👍👍
There's way too many idiots on the road that should NOT have passed drivers training!!
Softail Mann lol that’s soooo true!
Johnny I will have to say this is some of the best info I have seen on driving, I have a class A CDL as well drive the truck daily and my diesel pusher on the weekends.Everyone should watch this video a lot of good tips here. Had to laugh when you were talking about merging traffic and not going,that is one of my biggest gripes at work and at play. Safe travels‘s.
Kevin Melvin wow! That really means a lot coming from you! I can’t wait for you to see the next video that is the continuation of this video. In it, I discuss the relationship between RV drivers and Big Rig drivers... thanks for taking the time to leave a comment! Please subscribe and hit the bell so you get the next one coming Thursday!
Very informative! Great video!
Dean Webster Thanks Dean! I really appreciate you!
Great info. Thanks for sharing.
Jean Decker thanks so much for taking the time to leave a message!
Just go!!!! The pedal is on your right!!!!LOL
this video should be required watching for dmv tests
Lol! My daughter and I just had this experience with a merger. And I’m always saying, “The gas is under your right foot! Use it!!” Haha
We say… “Pedals on your right”… lol
Love the passion. All good information. Not sure what kind of rig I will end up purchasing in a couple years, but I have to say...those pushers are a little skeery!!! lol :-) Thanks so much & looking forward to the next video. Blessings!
Wanda Haseley have you driven any as of yet?
@@FreedomTours No, however, I did own a 32 foot class C that was easy to drive. That is when I fell in love with RV'g.
Wanda Haseley class a is not much more difficult... I promise... just have to get use to it!
Thanks for these tips. I hope to buy a motorhome in a couple of years and have never driven anything but a car and a pick up truck. I hope to be aware of what I need to know before I buy
atestring100 well, good luck. Let us know what you decide.
Besides the trucker/rv navigation devices what about an old fashioned current trucker’s atlas for pre-planning?
It’s funny that you should mention that. I finally got tiff of mine this week.
Terrific set of videos Johnny. I have learned while doing in my 34 foot diesel pusher over the past 2 years and wish I'd seen your videos earlier! One question for you - when it comes to signaling truck drivers by flashing your lights, what's the sequence? Is it one flash to pass and two flashes you're ok to merge? Thanks.
jhal50 there really isn’t a sequence per day but I only flash the fronts when I’m letting them know they are clear to come back over... I flash my tail lights when I’m letting them know that I’m grateful they told me I was clear to come back over after passing them as well! I never flash to let someone know I’m passing them. That’s more of a European thing.
Most RVs don't have an interrupt button like the tractors, but I feel like it's a preference thing on how you flash to signal. I've seen a rig blink like strobes to thank another guy for letting him change lanes in a heavy traffic situation. Also seen the opposite, no signal no interrupt.. kindness goes really far on a highway
Really enjoyed the video. I especially enjoyed your graphics and transitions!! Can you share where you get those and/or what editing program you use? I would love to use these on our channel. Keep up the good work.
Sorry just saw this comment… I use Wondershare Filmora
Another point regarding the acceleration lane. It is actually designed and named acceleration lane for a reason. It is intended for all drivers to accelerate up to the traffic speed before merging.
So true!
"Trucks must NOT be in that lane...THey'll get a ticket"... just as a truck passes by in that lane :-D I know, I know, you were talking about in the city, but still funny timing.
Ok now I gotta go find that spot... too funny
Merging cars that don’t just press on the long skinny pedal are my pet peeve. I find myself begging them to just hit that pedal and GO! They usually just match my speed and I know that they are going to get to the end of the merging lane and then want to finally come over, but then they are right beside me, so what I end up having to do is slow my roll so that they stay ahead of me, which sux having to do in a 33000 lb vehicle that takes 30 seconds and a gallon of fuel to get up to speed.
Yea, agreed! And that’s why God gave us a cool air horn lol
This is awesome, great tips!!
Forgotten Winter thanks so much...
Hats off to being a CDL A (professional) driver! I just got be B and really appreciate what I've learned. Meanwhile oh Heck yeah and Halleluiah re #10 - Left Lane Is For PASSING!! In Germany, if you hog the left lane, you were taught a lesson. And you didn't NOT get it.
Great video!
Aaron Loritts Thanks so much!
Is it beneficial to downshift for downhill/uphill situations? 40ft diesel pusher, cruise doesn't work, not sure if pacbrake works?
Have 8.3 300hp Cummins, 6spd Allison
Exception to #10 is New Mexico and Arizona I-40. The right lane is way to bumpy and full of potholes to drive in the right lane
Mark Hart I have found those exceptions as well... lol
Truckers honk at Me when I’m in middle lane of a three lane highway.
yes...as I said in the video the middle lane is the "passing lane" for truckers. So, as stated, you should only be there if there are no trucks behind you. Thanks for the comment. Safe travels.
@@FreedomTours do truckers prefer RV’s to be in far right lane all the time? Unless going as fast as them ?
@@musclecars4635 really no vehicle should ever just camp out in the passing lane… however, in the case of coming through cities where there will be sudden traffic merging, as long as there are no trucks being stuck behind you, I personally find it safer to be in the middle lane.
@@FreedomTours if I can’t move over quick enough, I put my turn signal on anyway to at least show the oncoming trucker I am trying to move out of his way.
One of the major reasons some folks drive in the left lane on some sections of interstate is because excessively heavy trucks have damaged the right lane to the point that it’s just entirely too rough to drive on. This is probably why your rig is rattling so badly, it’s being pounded to death. You’ve got an earthquake on wheels.
Yea, that is sometimes true... ours was rattling however, because of a door handle.
That was great- thanks!
steven richardson your welcome! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a message!
Johnny im glad you survived your trip.Good luck.
Green Rush thanks so much!
#11 drives me crazy! 😂🤪 Then I drive Ken crazy when I swear at the merging drivers who bunch up and leave no room for me in the right lane.....errrrrrrr!🤬
Mergers should leave a gap between cars...common sense, common courtesy, is all too uncommon!
Anyway...thanks again....loved this video👍
Jane
I soooo completely understand that lol
Full Time Freedom Tour I learned in Texas that the drivers don’t merge onto the interstate. You’re expected to move over and let them in. On ramps are ridiculously short too!
My wife and I are going to hit the road soon to see America. I would love to purchase a 42 to 45 foot motorhome. I have a Grand Cherokee that can be flat towed. I'm 65 years of age and my wife and I love the room at 45" would give us. We now live in Alabama and her family lives in Washington State with family between here to their. I plan to live the rest of my years on the road .
I have heard that tag Axles handle trucks blowing you off the road as they pass you . Also they the frame can haul more weight.
One things I have learned is with a wife it better to have that other 1/2 bath . I will have to purchase a used because I limited or I would just purchase a new motorhome. I'm thinking cost wise maybe from $148k to $220K . I would like to stay close to a 2011 or 2012 as far as year goes. She and I love the room that the larger motorhome offers. Can you advise me on what I might be doing wrong ?
I have worked hard all my life and wish to spend the later years doing what I have always wanted to do. I guess you already know that this is what she wishes to do also. Just I do not know all the answers but have been spending a lot of time reading. and watching youtube site like yours. I have watched a lot you guys videos. Thanks so much ! ! Jeff
Hey Jeff! Thanks for the questions! Gale and I are supper excited for you. The market that we are in currently has all motorhomes way over priced. For instance we bought our 2011 Winnebago Tour for under 150k now this same coach is running closer to 200k. That being said, I think you are doing exactly as you should. A used 2010-13 will be right in your price range. I would primarily look at Winnebago, Tiffan, Integra and Newmar as far as manufactures. Let us know about any coach your looking at and we would be more than happy to give you our two cents.
Blessings,
Johnny & Gale Rowlett
Sometimes that "truck lane" on the mountains does not appear like a lane, it just looks like a large shoulder. The mountains are the only place where it might be ok to drive on what looks like the "shoulder"
I’ve never seen that but will take your word. lol
Excellent production. May I ask a question: Can you make the segments longer?
In this role, you are a teacher and we in the audience are your students. We are here because we want to learn from you. Take your time and teach us well!
Had to break it into two sections... part 2...
th-cam.com/video/Er8TTjUpdxo/w-d-xo.html
All definitely valuable points, pretty much common sense but a lot of people out there don't have common sense🤔
R Dudley sooo true!
Good stuff.....nice hat! Go Cats!
Todd Hood Bear Down!!!!
Going up a hill you should expect eighteens to be much slower that your little bus. Its obvious to me and anyone with lots of experience you were a company driver and a wheel holder. Forgot to mention roadway. Was it roadway? Btw I am an instructor at the largest truck driver school in the USA. we are located adjacent to the fair grounds here in Tampa. Imo every rv over 30 ft should have to acquire a cdl.
Whats all that rattling? My Prevost doesn't do that. From my experience, regardless of speed limit, i always run 1 mph less. Going as slow as u r, you cause yourself to be an obstacle. Going down hill you grab a lower gear and set up your speed before descending. Monitoring the radio will give you better about any parking lots ahead.
I have the latest Garmin RV GPS and it didn’t reroute us around the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore! Insane! (Yes We updated all maps). Calling Garmin today.
Great advice on the merge - in Minnesota merge is another word for "barge" - many MN drivers don't even believe they don't have to yield, as a matter of fact I've had Minnesota drivers in my care tell me the mainline traffic is required to yield, so why didn't I let that car/truck into traffic. What is wrong with people?
Brad Putney you literally made me laugh out loud with the whole Barge instead of Merge ...😝... folks is crazy 😜... btw, thanks for taking the time to leave a comment and subscribe... so cool!
@@FreedomTours you're welcome. We have put "become digital nomads" in our 5 year plan so I am starting to think about diesel pushers as a rolling office/home. Thanks much.
Brad Putney this info might be helpful....
th-cam.com/video/68ozHKoePjs/w-d-xo.html
Yup...had a car travel in the breakdown lane about a 1/2 mile because I couldn't get over and then called the co. on me...they told me it happens all the time...
It's called the pass lane, turn lane and thru lane.👌
Ooooohhhhh 😂
Oh I love this! Yes people the GAS is on the right! So much information in this video. I drive a gas 33' FR3. I can't believe how stupid people are. I'm glad to know that I am doing all of these things you have said. I haven't had any formal training but driving is common sense! Bless you.
Bless you as well! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
Great tips!! Seatbelt?
Always!
Do you always have all that rattling? Or was you camera mic just super sensitive?
Greg Sharma we got a new coach ... no rattle lol
@@FreedomTours Oh, okay glad you got a new coach. That last one had, had a lot of rattling going on LOL!!!
Greg Sharma yes! Very aware lol
So funny, 90% of the time I have to use the air horn is due to topic #11. People completely obtuse to what it means to merge on a highway. I have scared the Sh** out of people and seen some classic reactions to my horn...thrown cell phones (this dude was literally on a cell phone while merging in busy Detroit traffic, as if the road conditions arent bad enough in Michigan), spilled drinks is a good one too. :)
just question, don't you have a shoulder belt
??
Pius Horning nope lol
You need to just do a quick sweep of all gauges every minute. Make it a habit.
BRAW video 🇬🇧👍
mjcos1 tha is so much bro!
Yea most of these tips are great for every driver not just RVers. The one thing I would take exception to is using cruise while climbing a long steep grade. I personally recommend not doing this. I would also recommend shifting to a lower gear, even if you're in a car, as to not lug the engine.
Jim Bronson ... great advice thanks so much! However, with an Alison Automatic Transmission this is not feasible
Great video and really good tips. Just one thing - where is your damn seatbelt!?!
Haha... this coach was older... ITV only had lap belts... good catch lol
Great info. But, in the right lane as you approach the people getting on the freeway on the entrance there is a yield sign on your right telling you, BY LAW, to yield to them getting on the freeway. Yeah they should be going freeway speed before they merge on the freeway but way to often they aren't. But by no means are they supposed to yield to the freeway.
Ed Dillard 100% incorrect! I’m not sure where you live but in no United States interstates are there EVER yield signs to the driver already on the freeway! They are ALWAYS on the driver getting on! Thanks for your input. I appreciate the comment 😀
Great info, even with the constant sweak from somewhere and that you were yelling the whole time. If you use a script, which means you are not driving, and recorded cut scenes to show what you mean, your video would have a great impact. Just my opinion of course.
David Crabtree Thanks for your opinion... I like the way it turned out... I did get a new coach since this video however! No squeak
@@FreedomTours Great video! A lot of good advice, I too prefer the center lane. Crabby David has NO videos on his channel(I always look when I encounter a TH-cam critic- Lol) Safe travels. Our 2003 Newmar Dutch Star 39' DP has a few squeaks but no loan. Lol
@@rickl6697 I love the Newmar! Congrats!!!
Wish you would have put the name of the weighs "waze" app in the info section
Jacquie Trump it’s not weighs... it’s literally Waze
Go!!!!!!
I’m surprised at how squeaky your RV is while driving.
Matt Portnoy we have since gotten a new coach... no squeak!
@@FreedomTours What did you get?
@@joeschmo7317 2011 Winnebago Tour
I think your squirrel's are trying to tell you they're hungry, they're chattering like mad.
jerkyturkey007 we ended up getting a new coach because of the noise lol
great tips, but that squeaking in the cockpit would drive me insane
klamo1962 yes! Indeed
Me too.
Just GO!!!!! LMAO!
Love your videos/advise ! But should you and your wife not set a good example to us newbies and wear your seat belts ? Safety First !!
+Ulrik Harvest in that coach all we had were lap belts and we had them on... new coach new belts! Now you can rest at night again lol... thanks for the reminder !
Going under the speed limit should be avoided in moderate to heavy traffic. It causes passing congestion which can lead to aggravated drivers passing on the right and making other unsafe maneuvers to get past you. Go the speed limit unless you are overtaken less than once every 30 seconds. Once you have 4 cars per minute passing you, you need to definitely be going the speed limit.
I cannot wait till I see a biker in the biking Lane :-) airhorn!
Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comment but why would you use the airhorn on a bike in the bike lane?
Seems like an unnecessary, dangerous, and rude thing to do. Why would you do this?? I see no legit reason to do so.
@@dawnharold887 beep beep!
seat belt?
Don Rice good catch!!! In this rig, I only have a lap belt!
I call my GPS “Bitching Betty” 🙀🙉🙈🙊
Tom Coker lol too funny!
My town where I live
I drive a diesel bus for Wayne county in wv glad you are videoing here .and I have a 37 ft RV
THIS AIN'T NO "HOW TO" VIDEO, IT'S A RANT BY SOME DUDE THAT SPENT TOO MANY YEARS ON THE ROAD AND THINKS HE OWNS IT.
didnt say it was a how to ... lol... I said it was 11 TIPS....but thanks for the helpful comment.
Merging: 100%!!!!! All the time. Every case. Merging traffic YIELDS. EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO STOP.
Exactly!
Left lane drivers are a plague.
Gary Hill hahahahaha true
Why did you have to use the air horn when the car passed you on the shoulder. You have to take the hand off the wheel and make an unnecessary action
Lol... you crack me up... always keyboard warriors! Have a better day silly goose!
@@FreedomTours sincerely asking . Sorry if there is a misunderstanding thank you
👍
👍❤️
Also please edit the name Manuel brakes ; the correct name should be air brakes and engine brakes which at the same time comes in two forms: Jacobs engine brake and exhaust brake… two different animals that do the same thing, thanks . Manuel is a male name; I know manual is what you meant but there is no such manual brake unless you are referring to a vehicle in which a brake is operated by a hand 🤚