Hello and I could use some more experienced help.

[healsing]

Hello to all!

I'm a newbie with a 1997 Fleetwood Bounder 32ft. with 37,000 miles. The rig is in excellent condition for such an old rig.

The lead up to the rig: I spent several years researching, looking at/inspecting affordable rigs for sale until this one hit all my requirements...low mileage, great upkeep, no leaks, reliable well maintained engine. It already had ...new EPDM roof, new brakes, brake calipers, engine hoses, engine belts, new 500AH house batteries, new engine battery, Onan Generator with only 50 hours on it. Sway bars were upgraded to IPD 2" with Bilstein Shocks. It's really a good start for an older rig and hopefully a good start for me. We'll see.

The Work: I've still had to update and replace stuff..... I simplified the interior. Sprayed the walls, installed new flooring and carpet. Removed the banquet. I replaced all the water lines with 1/2" Pex too and replaced the front spring helper air bags. Everything is working as it should. As an experienced craftsman and DIY'er I'm capable of fixing my own engine problems that aren't too complex or requiring a heavy lift. I'm hopeful that I've covered most of the bases and there won't be too many surprises on the road.

The experience: The learning curve has been enormous. I'm humbled by the folks that are the experts in this field.

What I do; I'm semi retired (69) and just finished a part time gig in Washington State that took 5 years of my life to accomplish. I designed and directed the restoration of a 1958 5000sq. ft. lakefront Air B&B. I went from that project to working on the rig for the last 4 months. So I've been busy.

After 12 winters in Seattle: I'm off on a new journey headed south to Arizona unless something on the way keeps me from going any further for a while. I'm open to whatever happens that interests me. Work camping feels like a good idea too. I'm single, work is purposeful. I like to keep busy.

Where I need some help: The largest thing I've driven is a van. I'm reticent to drive it without having an experienced RV'er with me the first couple of times to give me pointers and to get some practice. I wonder if there is an experienced truck driver or RV'er near Renton WA that would be willing to spend some time with me practicing in a parking lot? I'm willing to pay by the hour. The closest RV driving instructor is hundreds of miles away. Any ideas or suggestions would be helpful?


Rob

 

[tlmgcamp1]

I can't help you but wanted to compliment you on knowing what you don't know and looking for assistance.

 

[Mark_K5LXP]

Wouldn't dissuade you from getting some mentoring, it'd be a quicker way to get practical experience than trial and error. I had never driven a class A until I was leaving the dealer lot in one. I've driven box trucks before so the idea of a lot of weight and bulk behind me wasn't a surprise, but it honestly isn't a lot harder to drive than a pickup or a van. Being over the steer tires instead of behind them is one thing to get used to, and your back overhang/swing. There would absolutely be nothing wrong with heading for a vacant parking lot, setting up some boxes or cones and getting a feel of maneuvering. One thing in your favor is you're an old guy driving a big RV. It's almost expected you're going to make wide turns, and go slow on the freeway. After a few hundred miles the operation won't be foremost on your mind anymore and you can focus more on strategic driving. So I guess the point of this is the only real training is time behind the wheel, with or without a mentor.

Mark B.
Albuquerque, NM

 

[Larry N.]

I wonder if there is an experienced truck driver or RV'er near Renton WA that would be willing to spend some time with me practicing in a parking lot?

I'm a long ways from there, Rob, but a couple of hints might be in order. Be very aware of the extra height, width and length, and make good use of your mirrors. Once you learn to really use those mirrors you'll gain a comfort level that will help. Don't be in a hurry, and while it's good to be aware of, and concerned about, other traffic, there are times when you'll need to forget that for the moment and let them accept that it's a big, (comparatively) clumsy vehicle while you deal with whatever situation you have.

Finally, learn to be aware of where your sides, back end and roof are and take note that when you make a turn, especially in tight quarters, that the back end actually swings around in the opposite direction (use the mirrors).

Also, Michelin has a video on YouTube about how to handle a blowout, which includes some additional tips too:

 

[SpencerPJ]

You might ask the local RV sales centers if they offer a class, or ask a tech for a couple hours, or even google 'mobile rv tech, and your zipcode', maybe a local rv guy could spend a couple hours at a reasonable rate. Congrats on your purchase, you seem as a handy guy, that usually comes with a good perception of how things work, and that usually is the stumbling block for many. You got this, enjoy your RV.

 

[Ex-Calif]

Welcome aboard and thanks for the detailed introduction. I really hope someone in your area steps up.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

I'll side with the others who suggest that you will quickly learn to adapt your driving experience to the new vehicle and at little risk as long as you remain as cautious as you obviously are. The two big factors to keep in mind are:

• The different driver position (over the front wheels) and how it alters your view of the road is key. That will trick your driver "muscle memory" for the first several hundred miles or so, until your brain grooves the new patterns into your automatic muscle reactions. You will be nervous and tend to over correct the steering at first, but train yourself to focus your eyes further ahead so that your natural vision parallax keeps you centered in your lane.
• It's a lot taller than anything you ever drove, so learn to look up as well as around. Step #1 is to know the actual height so you can compare it to low overpass signage as needed. Write it on a piece of paper and put it on the dash!

Some other points: You will probably worry about turns but generally they are not a problem as long as you don't intentionally turn short. To start with, plan on slightly wider turns, thinking you are driving along a right angle square corner. Since you are sitting over the steering wheels, you don't turn those wheels until you (and they) reach the corner of that right angle. If making a sharp turn between fixed objects (like a gas pump), be aware that the back end wings out as the front end turns the opposite way. That's because the back of a gas chassis coach extends well beyond the rear axle, and that axle acts as a pivot point.

If you stay aware of those things, you will stay safe as you gain experience.

 

[Matt_C1]

Healsing,
FMCA offers driver training, but the next class is in Tucson in March. My next shot would be to stop at any local home with a large Class A RV next to it and knock on the door. The owner may be interested to assist you. (I did this when someone contacted me.) Another might be to post a local note to Craig's list or other social forum.
Other than that, find a big empty parking lot (like church on Saturday or an factory on Sunday) and drive there very carefully. Take a friend to watch the corners and practice.
Matt_C

 

[John From Detroit]

Hello to all!

I'm a newbie with a 1997 Fleetwood Bounder 32ft. with 37,000 miles. The rig is in excellent condition for such an old rig.

The lead up to the rig: I spent several years researching, looking at/inspecting affordable rigs for sale until this one hit all my requirements...low mileage, great upkeep, no leaks, reliable well maintained engine. It already had ...new EPDM roof, new brakes, brake calipers, engine hoses, engine belts, new 500AH house batteries, new engine battery, Onan Generator with only 50 hours on it. Sway bars were upgraded to IPD 2" with Bilstein Shocks. It's really a good start for an older rig and hopefully a good start for me. We'll see.

The Work: I've still had to update and replace stuff..... I simplified the interior. Sprayed the walls, installed new flooring and carpet. Removed the banquet. I replaced all the water lines with 1/2" Pex too and replaced the front spring helper air bags. Everything is working as it should. As an experienced craftsman and DIY'er I'm capable of fixing my own engine problems that aren't too complex or requiring a heavy lift. I'm hopeful that I've covered most of the bases and there won't be too many surprises on the road.

The experience: The learning curve has been enormous. I'm humbled by the folks that are the experts in this field.

What I do; I'm semi retired (69) and just finished a part time gig in Washington State that took 5 years of my life to accomplish. I designed and directed the restoration of a 1958 5000sq. ft. lakefront Air B&B. I went from that project to working on the rig for the last 4 months. So I've been busy.

After 12 winters in Seattle: I'm off on a new journey headed south to Arizona unless something on the way keeps me from going any further for a while. I'm open to whatever happens that interests me. Work camping feels like a good idea too. I'm single, work is purposeful. I like to keep busy.

Where I need some help: The largest thing I've driven is a van. I'm reticent to drive it without having an experienced RV'er with me the first couple of times to give me pointers and to get some practice. I wonder if there is an experienced truck driver or RV'er near Renton WA that would be willing to spend some time with me practicing in a parking lot? I'm willing to pay by the hour. The closest RV driving instructor is hundreds of miles away. Any ideas or suggestions would be helpful?


Rob

Well now is the time to head to Arizonia.. In fact I can give direstions
Interstate 10 to State Route 95... (NOTE there is no exit for 95 but there are exits about a mile or two either side of it. There is a truck stop at the one west of SR-95) Now about 3 miles south to Tyson's wash... Other forum memers will guide you from there The last half of January they tend to gather in that area If you ever make it to Flint, Mi area.. I have a lovely site marker. but I never made it back. Worked well the year I was there.

 

[DutchmenSport]

The only way you are going to learn is to simply get out there and do it! Fire up the motor home and take it to the closest open parking lot. Practice turning using the parking lot rows and painted parking lines as markers.

The only way you'll learn is by getting out there and doing it yourself. You can watch multitudes of YouTube videos and get the basics in your head, the same as someone sitting beside you telling you want to do.

You don't "get it" until you actually "do it!"

So, just get out there and "do it!" You can get all the "head knowledge" from YouTube.

 

[healsing]

I can't help you but wanted to compliment you on knowing what you don't know and looking for assistance.

Thanks for the support! I've been driving for 49 years and had one accident. Someone rear ended me while I was stopped at a light. When the cops arrived I thought it was my fault. The other driver was drunk... driving without a license or insurance. The cop gave me a ticket and arrested the other driver. My wires were crossed at an early age. My presence of mind in stressful situations diminishes. Man know thyself. I'm slow but sure.

 

[healsing]

I'll side with the others who suggest that you will quickly learn to adapt your driving experience to the new vehicle and at little risk as long as you remain as cautious as you obviously are. The two big factors to keep in mind are:

• The different driver position (over the front wheels) and how it alters your view of the road is key. That will trick your driver "muscle memory" for the first several hundred miles or so, until your brain grooves the new patterns into your automatic muscle reactions. You will be nervous and tend to over correct the steering at first, but train yourself to focus your eyes further ahead so that your natural vision parallax keeps you centered in your lane.
• It's a lot taller than anything you ever drove, so learn to look up as well as around. Step #1 is to know the actual height so you can compare it to low overpass signage as needed. Write it on a piece of paper and put it on the dash!

Some other points: You will probably worry about turns but generally they are not a problem as long as you don't intentionally turn short. To start with, plan on slightly wider turns, thinking you are driving along a right angle square corner. Since you are sitting over the steering wheels, you don't turn those wheels until you (and they) reach the corner of that right angle. If making a sharp turn between fixed objects (like a gas pump), be aware that the back end wings out as the front end turns the opposite way. That's because the back of a gas chassis coach extends well beyond the rear axle, and that axle acts as a pivot point.

If you stay aware of those things, you will stay safe as you gain experience.

This is very helpful thanks! I have watched all the videos and am aware of the tail swing, pivot point and the off tracking. 12' 6" Height it's seared in my memory. I intend to put markers on the windshield for sight lines. That is precisely why I want to practice first. The person that drove it to my location although experienced clearly wasn't able to center the rig in the lane. At one point he hit the curb on the right side on a curve. I drove behind the rig and and watched how it moved on the road. It wasn't pretty.

 

[healsing]

Healsing,
FMCA offers driver training, but the next class is in Tucson in March. My next shot would be to stop at any local home with a large Class A RV next to it and knock on the door. The owner may be interested to assist you. (I did this when someone contacted me.) Another might be to post a local note to Craig's list or other social forum.
Other than that, find a big empty parking lot (like church on Saturday or an factory on Sunday) and drive there very carefully. Take a friend to watch the corners and practice.
Matt_C

This is a good idea thanks! I intended to put something up on Craig's list but Craig's list can be iffy.

 

[healsing]

The only way you are going to learn is to simply get out there and do it! Fire up the motor home and take it to the closest open parking lot. Practice turning using the parking lot rows and painted parking lines as markers.

The only way you'll learn is by getting out there and doing it yourself. You can watch multitudes of YouTube videos and get the basics in your head, the same as someone sitting beside you telling you want to do.

You don't "get it" until you actually "do it!"

So, just get out there and "do it!" You can get all the "head knowledge" from YouTube.

I got it!

 

[healsing]

Wouldn't dissuade you from getting some mentoring, it'd be a quicker way to get practical experience than trial and error. I had never driven a class A until I was leaving the dealer lot in one. I've driven box trucks before so the idea of a lot of weight and bulk behind me wasn't a surprise, but it honestly isn't a lot harder to drive than a pickup or a van. Being over the steer tires instead of behind them is one thing to get used to, and your back overhang/swing. There would absolutely be nothing wrong with heading for a vacant parking lot, setting up some boxes or cones and getting a feel of maneuvering. One thing in your favor is you're an old guy driving a big RV. It's almost expected you're going to make wide turns, and go slow on the freeway. After a few hundred miles the operation won't be foremost on your mind anymore and you can focus more on strategic driving. So I guess the point of this is the only real training is time behind the wheel, with or without a mentor.

Mark B.
Albuquerque, NM

Thanks Mark this is helpful.

 

[healsing]

Welcome aboard and thanks for the detailed introduction. I really hope someone in your area steps up.

So do I! Thanks for the support.

 

[Tulecreeper]

Thanks for the support! I've been driving for 49 years and had one accident. Someone rear ended me while I was stopped at a light. When the cops arrived I thought it was my fault. The other driver was drunk... driving without a license or insurance. The cop gave me a ticket and arrested the other driver. My wires were crossed at an early age. My presence of mind in stressful situations diminishes. Man know thyself. I'm slow but sure.

What did you get cited for?

 

[healsing]

What did you get cited for?

Improper changing of lanes. This was in a sparsely populated area and at night. Mine was the only car present for miles. I was sure it was my fault because i had moved over to the turning lane earlier. The cop said to me; thanks for being honest and gave me a moving violation which actually was not the cause of the accident. I was actually stopped at the light. He really had no choice but to site me because he wasn't there and I was. Ironically the cop just just happened to come along when the other car tried to flee the accident at high speed. The insurance company ruled in my favor. My point is that it's all a matter of perception that we create ourselves. In my case I'm not sure until I'm sure. I like the idea of getting experience under conditions that are "safer" until I can get a feel for the rig.

 

[John From Detroit]

Generally in a rear end accident. Doubler down on this if the car in front is stopped at a light... The guy with the leaky radiator (Assuming it's a front mounted radiator) is considered to be at fault.
I mean how can it be your fault if you were NOT in motion at the microsecond before the crash?

 

[Onyrlef]

Improper changing of lanes. This was in a sparsely populated area and at night. Mine was the only car present for miles. I was sure it was my fault because i had moved over to the turning lane earlier. The cop said to me; thanks for being honest and gave me a moving violation which actually was not the cause of the accident. I was actually stopped at the light. He really had no choice but to site me because he wasn't there and I was. Ironically the cop just just happened to come along when the other car tried to flee the accident at high speed. The insurance company ruled in my favor. My point is that it's all a matter of perception that we create ourselves. In my case I'm not sure until I'm sure. I like the idea of getting experience under conditions that are "safer" until I can get a feel for the rig.

If you ask a cop to give you a ticket because you made an illegal lane change on a deserted highway you are definitely a candidate for driver training.