Category: Wildsam

  • The Gear: Adventure Watches — It’s About Time

    The first wristwatch was reportedly made for the Queen of Naples in 1810 by a man named Abraham-Louis Breguet. At the time, Breguet’s timepiece was an astounding feat of engineering, taking the precise mechanical movements of a pocket watch and shrinking the technology down to something small enough to circle a wrist. Impressive as that was, the Prussian-born inventor might not even recognize the watches of today, technological wonders in their own right.

    This is especially true for modern watches built for outdoor exploration. These chronographs are incredibly durable and packed with high-tech features. Those include GPS navigation, built-in altimeters, weather alerts, fitness tracking, heart-rate monitoring… it goes on. Alternatively, some models eschew complicated functionality in favor of a simpler approach.

    Picking the right watch for your adventures usually comes down to personal needs and preferences. Trail runners, mountain bikers and kayakers may appreciate all of the bells and whistles that come with a fitness-focused model; hikers, climbers and wildlife photographers might prefer something simple and reliable. Everyone has plenty to choose from.

    Here are a few of our favorite adventure watches, across price points and complexity levels.

    adventure watches

    Photo Credit: Garmin

    Garmin fēnix 8

    If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure watch that offers everything but the kitchen sink, the Garmin fēnix 8 is the one for you. This model wraps together GPS tracking, detailed multicontinent topographic maps, support for dozens of outdoor activities, weather alerts, smartphone notifications and a lot more. The rechargeable battery can run for up to 29 days between charges, and its bright, colorful screen is easy to read in any lighting conditions. You can download music, podcasts and audiobooks (i.e., ditch the phone for long hikes, runs and rides). It doesn’t come cheap, though. Pricing starts at $1,199. garmin.com

    Photo Credit: Suunto

    Suunto Vertical Solar

    The Suunto Vertical offers many of the same features found on the Garmin fēnix, including GPS connectivity, on-device maps, activity tracking, weather updates and so on. But this model comes with a built-in solar panel under its screen that allows it to run for up to 60 days between charges. MSRP: $599. us.suunto.com

    Photo Credit: Citizen

    Citizen Promaster Dive

    This mechanical watch features a timeless, elegant design that is equally at home at a dinner party as on a deep-sea fishing boat. Features
    include a 1/5-second chronograph that measures up to 60 minutes, a unidirectional turning bezel, 12/24-hour time and date functionality. It is water resistant down to 200 meters and is charged via the sun, meaning there is never any need to replace the battery. MSRP: $575. citizenwatch.com

    Photo Credit: Casio

    Casio G-Shock GA2100-1A

    Rugged and reliable, the Casio G-Shock line of watches has been a popular go-to for adventurers for decades. The GA2100-1A model is a digital/analog hybrid, featuring a traditional watch face and day/date indicator. Other features include world time in 31 time zones, a countdown timer, a stopwatch, five daily alarms and 200-meter water resistance. MSRP: $99. casio.com

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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  • The Happier Camper Traveler is a Bundle of Joy

    How do you turn a happy camper into an even happier one? Give them a lightweight travel trailer that deftly blends retro styling with thoroughly modern materials and components. Add in a cozy, customizable interior, along with high-tech features. Then sell it at a relatively affordable price. Yeah, that ought to do it.

    That’s exactly what you’ll get with the Happier Camper Traveler, a towable that looks like something from a bygone era, but performs like an RV built and designed in the 21st century. Founded in 2009, Happier Camper started as a vintage RV restoration and rental company that specialized in fiberglass trailers. As the business grew, founder Derek Michael branched out by designing his own travel trailers, using fiberglass shells and seamless construction to prevent leaks and maintain structural integrity. The towables Michael created turned out to be relatively easy to keep clean and maintain, often requiring just regular washing and waxing to stay looking new. This greatly extends the RV’s lifespan and leads to potentially higher resale values, too.

    Happier Camper Traveler

    Photo Credit: Happier Camper

    With three models to choose from, the HC Traveler has an option for a variety of buyers and budgets. The entry-level Essentials trailer is the lightest and most affordable version, while the Adventure edition steps things up with the addition of an onboard bathroom and kitchenette. The Summit is the top trim, and includes everything the Adventure has to offer, plus a full-size fridge, a microwave, a built-in closet, solar panels and more. All three models have a GVWR of under 3,500 pounds, making them easily towable behind a small truck, SUV or even some cars.

    Using Happier Camper’s Adaptiv system, owners can customize interiors. Each of the company’s trailers comes with a specially designed fiberglass floor that includes a grid-like pattern and a series of frame-mounted D-rings. Modular components—like tables, benches, and beds—securely lock into place along the grid, creating an environment that is unique to each individual. The modules can be quickly and easily removed or rearranged, changing up the cabin in a matter of minutes.

    Because the HC Traveler includes an integrated bathroom and kitchenette, owners leverage the Adaptiv system primarily in its dynamic living space and for upgrading the sleeping arrangements, the Happier Camper team says. That versatility is a major draw, allowing owners to easily customize their space for other uses, such as a mobile office, a comfortable lounge or for efficient gear transport

    Photo Credit: Happier Camper

    One of the more popular Adaptiv modules is the bunkbed option, which, when paired with Happier Camper’s standard bed/lounge components, allows the Traveler to comfortably sleep up to six. That’s not bad for a compact travel trailer that also somehow manages to include two separate living spaces, along with a bathroom and kitchenette on the higher-end models. As many as five panoramic windows provide plenty of natural light.

    While there’s no question the Traveler is an innovative rig, it is the RV’s distinctive looks that garner much of the attention. The travel trailer’s retro-inspired design definitely generates nostalgic vibes that turn heads at the campground. An elegant two-tone paint job lends credence to the idea that this could have originally been built in the 1950s and painstakingly and lovingly restored by hand. That timeless look should allow the towable to age gracefully. Something owners will appreciate when they pass it along to the next generation of happy campers.

    Pricing for the Happier Camper Traveler starts at $39,950. happiercamper.com

    Dimensions

    GVWR: 3,500 lbs. Hitch Weight: 250-325 lbs. Overall Length: 17′ Exterior Height: 8′ 5″

    Illustration by Dee Duncan

    1. The Traveler is built with a double-hull fiberglass shell.

    2. 14” tires and a torsion axle with independent suspension ensure a smooth ride.

    3. The entry door includes a nautical-inspired porthole window

    4. Windows on both sides and the rear of the trailer provide plenty of natural light.

    5. 17-gallon fresh water and gray water tanks enable off -grid camping.

    6. An easy crank-out awning fi ts neatly with the retro-inspired design.

    7. An outdoor porch light illuminates the slide-out steps.

    8. Rear stabilizing jacks keep things level and secure at the campsite.

    Illustration by Dee Duncan

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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  • Shop Talk: Wayfarer Vans Show Us the Simpler Way

    Ian Horgan’s journey in the camper van world started with a soggy adventure in Durango, Colorado. In 2014, he and his then-girlfriend, now wife, rode out a thunderstorm in a leaky tent. Soaked and miserable, they were determined to find a better way. From that germ of an idea, Wayfarer Vans was formed.

    At the time, Horgan says, there were really only a few reputable van builders out there, and while they made great rigs, they tended to carry weighty price tags. So, Horgan decided to build his own on the relatively small Ram Promaster City platform. He figured if he wanted a simple, quality camper van, other folks probably did, too. And so began his mission to palletize camper vans.

    The first Wayfarer Vans builds were kits designed for self installation, flatpacked and shipped directly to customers. The outfit has since evolved into a full, end-to-end builder and now offers four van-dependent builds that they install at their Colorado Springs facility. Those builds start at $22,000, and installation takes just a couple days. While they’re pumping out more vans than ever, they still try to abide by Horgan’s original philosophy of creating simple, high-quality, modular builds for an affordable price. We caught up with him to hear more.

    Wayfarer Vans

    Photo Credit: Jimena Peck

    Q: What makes Wayfarer Vans different from all the other van builders out there?

    Horgan: I tend to say that we put the “camp” back in camper vans. We’re not going to build you a special espresso drawer. You’re going to use an Aeropress or something already in your camping closet.

    Q: How do you balance simplicity and affordability with quality?

    Horgan: That’s an interesting tightrope to walk and it’s a lot of fun. It’s really just our manufacturing process. You can see a lot of builders doing it now where they offer these preset designs, but I think Wayfarer Vans was the leading edge of that. I say we make “mass customization.” I don’t think it’s groundbreaking stuff in terms of manufacturing in general, but it was for the camper van world. A custom builder on average might take about 300 man-hours to do a van, whereas we’ve cut it down to about 26 or 28 hours. We don’t have options for the countertops or the wood species or the flooring or whatever. But we do have options for accessories. And when we design a new accessory, we make sure it can go into every one of our vans.

    Q: You refer to yourselves and customers as “Wayfarians.” Why such an emphasis on community?

    Horgan: From the beginning, I recognized a lot of camper van builders are so focused on what they were doing. I want to celebrate the people who are buying this. The people who go out and do the things that they want to do. If you just buy a van and then you don’t know what to do with it afterwards and it just sits in the driveway, what good is it to you? We created the Wayfarer Vans app, and the premise was to give a platform to the community so that they can share their favorite campsites with other Wayfarians. The key to the app is it’s still a closed community—you get a code for it once you buy a van, and then you have access. So, if somebody is new to camping and they don’t know where to go, they have a pocket full of 900 of some of the coolest camping spots in the country.

    Photo Credit: Jimena Peck

    Q: What’s your philosophy on offering amenities while keeping things simple?

    Horgan: Over time, we’ve added more amenities, but every time we do that we put a magnifying glass up against it and ask ourselves: Does this carry our brand forward? We don’t want to add more complexity just because people want it. Take the heater. We looked at all the options and asked: How can we do this in the Wayfarer way? All I want to do is just push a button and have the thing work. I think a lot of RV builders and manufacturers try to make things more like a house, but you can’t. It’s a dynamic, moving thing that’s going to be bouncing down the road.

    Q: What’s your favorite design feature?

    Horgan: I really kind of nerd out on the friction hinges because I just think that they’re so simple and effective. It’s not a gas strut and you’re not having to make weird design changes to the cabinetry. It’s so analog. If I could point to one thing that exemplifies how we’re different, it’s those–and they’re not cheap. We’re an affordable conversion, but we don’t use cheap material.

    Q: What’s next for Wayfarer?

    Horgan: I just got back from a week-long trip in Lone Pine, California, that we called a Wayfarer Weekend. We booked 10 sites at a campground at the base of Mount Whitney and celebrated our community and what it is to own a van. We’re going to do another one in Michigan and a third in Stanley, Idaho, this year. I’m hoping that this just builds momentum. I’d like to have six to ten events a year to get people out there together, hanging out, making those connections and, you know, traveling in a van.

    Shop: Wayfarer Vans Location: Colorado Springs, CO Founded: 2015 Specialty: Modular Van Builds

    Photo Credit: Jimena Peck

    Pick Your Van

    Customers can choose between four builds—the Walter, Walt, Wilma and Wilford—each of which is tied to a specific model of Ram ProMaster or Ford Transit.

    No Frills

    The Walter, built atop a ProMaster with a 136-inch wheelbase, includes cargo tracks, a bedframe with a five-inch memory foam mattress, a galley kitchen with a fold-out leaf, as well as LED lighting, magnetic window shades and wool-insulate walls.

    Look Inside

    Wayfarer offers van tours at their shop in Colorado Springs, but they also work with a network of “Vanbassadors” who will meet up with prospective buyers and show them how these vans actually function.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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  • Road Icon: Out of Africa

    In 1979, 182 racers took to the starting line for the inaugural Paris-Dakar Rally, a grueling 6,200-plus-mile race on tarmac and off-road terrain, including vast stretches of the Sahara Desert. Of those competitors, 90 set off on motorcycles. They didn’t know it at the time, but the event would spark an arms race among motorcycle manufacturers that would result in several legendary models, including one from Honda whose very name still conjures images of adventure.

    Honda XRV650 Africa Twin

    Photo Credit: Honda Racing Corporation

    Despite scoring a Dakar win in 1982,Honda found itself falling behind the competition in the adventure bike category. The Japanese giant tasked its top R&D team to create a new model designed to conquer the deserts of North Africa. Those efforts resulted in the Honda NXR750, which dominated the race for four straight years, winning from 1986 to 1989. That bike is an icon in its own right, but it also spurred development of the Honda XRV 650 Africa Twin—a bike that fundamentally changed the relationship between rider and machine.

    Taking inspiration from its earlier sibling, the Africa Twin was the first factory-built bike designed for both on- and off-road riding. The goal was to convey a sense of adventure and discovery, giving owners a motorcycle with a Dakar-winning heritage that was also a daily driver. Honda gave the XRV650 a rugged suspension built for desert rallies, paired with a water-cooled four-stroke V-engine that provided plenty of power. Surprisingly nimble, the bike handled just as well on pavement as it did dirt, sand and other terrain, quickly earning a cult following in the moto community.

    Photo Credit: Honda Racing Corporation

    According to lead designer Mogi Tomonori, the goal with the Africa Twin was to create a bike built for “crossing the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, and charging across the Sahara Desert and Africa.” That versatility was virtually unknown at the time, even in other adventure bikes. The XRV650 proved incredibly reliable, too, completing several Dakar Rallies of its own in the “Marathon” category, something previously unheard of from a production bike.

    The original Honda XRV650 Africa Twin was only in production for two years, before being replaced by a new model. But the bike left such an impression on motorcycle aficionados that it is still spoken about in reverent tones. It set a high bar for craftsmanship and engineering, making it much sought after nearly 40 years after its initial debut. Honda even reintroduced the nameplate in 2016, with current models continuing the legacy of this storied original. The brand’s success continues at the Dakar Rally, too, with Honda winning three of the past five races.

    Send your memories of vintage rides: therally@wildsam.com.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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  • Team Transport: The Best RVs for Tailgating

    A legendary tailgating session requires a legendary vehicle, even if an actual, literal tailgate is optional these days. In fact, an RV is the perfect gathering point for game-day shenanigans, and we’ve found some of the best models currently suited to this sacred purpose. These rigs have great features inside and out, and can help keep the troops entertained before and after the action. Better still, they make hitting the road for those epic away games so much better. These are our picks for the best RVs for tailgating.

    best RVs for tailgating

    Photo Credit: Thor

    Thor Outlaw Wild West Edition

    This Class A toy hauler checks all the boxes when it comes to being a great tailgating vehicle. Its well-equipped kitchen includes a two-burner induction cooktop and a convection microwave oven that doubles as an air fryer, taking some of the pressure off the brave soul working the grill. A residential-size refrigerator provides ample room for all of your favorite beverages, while Thor’s popular “Dream Dinette” makes a great gathering place for pregame meals. The Outlaw’s gear garage converts nicely to a second living room, and the foldout patio deck is a nice touch when entertaining fellow fans (or heckling the opposition). The motorcoach ships from the factory with two TVs—one in the primary living space and another outside—and is prewired to add two more in the garage and bedroom. About the only thing this model lacks is an outdoor kitchen, but its large awning deploys at the touch of a button, creating a protected space for setting up grills, coolers, chairs and other game-day essentials. MSRP: $254,660

    Photo Credit: Winnebago

    Winnebago Adventurer 35F

    With its spacious interior, modern kitchen and outdoor entertainment center with a 32” TV and premium sound system, all versions of the Winnebago Adventurer make excellent tailgating options. But the 35F floor plan is especially enticing, thanks to its massive sectional sofa located opposite one of two interior televisions. A large dinette and a removable pedestal table between the swiveling driver and passenger chairs add extra space for pregame snacking. The residential refrigerator and one-and-a-half baths are the equivalent of champagne in the locker room for this excellent coach. MSRP: $257,575

    Photo Credit: Fleetwood

    Fleetwood Fortis 36Y/36T

    An exterior kitchenette and outdoor entertainment center immediately give the Fleetwood Fortis 36Y and 36T floor plans excellent tailgating cred. But there is plenty to love inside this Class A model, too, including plush jackknife sofas, large L-shaped dinettes, and no fewer than three TVs. The 36Y features a dedicated “kid kave” lounge in the back for younger fans, while the 36T model has a media-room complete with 65” TV and Klipsch soundbar, powered theater seating and a fireplace. Residential appliances, generous onboard storage and a 5,500W Onan Quiet generator round out a long list of standard features. MSRP: $231,533

    Photo Credit: Entegra Coach

    Entegra Accolade XT 29T

    When it comes to tailgating, the Entegra Accolade XT 29T is proof that Class C can equal MVP. This floor plan includes a huge U-shaped power sofa with room for your squad to huddle up, all conveniently located near the rig’s 50” smart TV. Outside, an 18-foot awning sits atop an exterior entertainment center equipped with another LED HDTV connected to JBL outdoor speakers, ensuring fans catch the all-important pregame show, whether they’re relaxing inside or outside the vehicle. MSRP: $300,300

    Photo Credit: Jayco

    Jayco North Point  382FLRB

    Jayco’s North Point 382FLRB floor plan is a  towable that makes a great tailgating RV. This fifth-wheel model includes a massive dedicated living room with three sofas, an entertainment center with a 50” TV, and a fireplace. The island kitchen includes a four-burner stove, microwave, a residential-style refrigerator, a 32” TV and a roll-top dinette. And if that wasn’t enough, the interior also features one-and-a-half baths. Outside, you’ll find two 14-foot awnings, an outdoor kitchen, and the option to add a third TV. With so many features, you might even be tempted to skip the game and watch from the parking lot. MSRP: $127,718

    Photo Credit: Leisure Travel Vans

    Leisure Travel Vans Wonder

    If you think a Class B can’t make a great tailgating model, think again. The Leisure Travel Vans Wonder is a sophisticated and luxurious camper van that’s a joy to drive and has some seriously luxurious amenities. The Rear Lounge model is especially well-suited for hosting pregame gatherings, with ample seating space, an onboard TV and a well-equipped galley kitchen with additional seating and a removable table.
    Best of all, parking is a breeze and navigating post-game traffic couldn’t be easier. MSRP: $199,720

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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  • Wildsam Road Ready: Gen-Y Hitch and GaragePro Tire Savers

    Sharing our appreciation for our friends and partners across the RV industry and beyond.

    Gen-Y Hitch

    Photo Credit: Gen-Y Hitch

    Gen-Y Hitch Executive Pin Box

    The GEN-Y EXECUTIVE 5th Wheel Pin Box upgrades your RV’s factory pin box for a smoother, safer towing experience. Patented TORSION-FLEX Technology isolates the truck from the trailer, reducing chucking, bucking, and harsh ride quality. Compatible with nearly any RV make and model, you can choose a king-pin connection or free up space in your truck bed by going with the popular   fth wheel to gooseneck connection. It’s maintenance-free, 100% made in the USA, and backed by a 5-year TORSION-FLEX warranty. Switch today and experience a night-and-day difference in comfort, control, and confidence during every trip.

    Visit the Geny-Y Hitch website for more information.

    Photo Credit: GaragePros

    GaragePro Tire Savers

    Preventing flat spots during RV storage doesn’t have to be hard.

    Long-term RV storage is part of the deal, which can result in flat spots on your tires when they sit on flat surfaces where the rubber meets the ground without moving. According to Edmunds, “…if conditions are right, a month of being stationary might be enough to cause problems.”

    Park Smart Tire Savers cradle your tires to help prevent flat spots during storage. Made of solid heavy-duty vinyl, these ramps won’t crush, crack or slip, unlike those made of hollow plastic. These Tire Savers have no weight limit, come in multiple sizes and have a lifetime warranty. Uniquely designed with the driver in mind, you can drive up and over the ramps, which is particularly useful for RVs with multiple axles, making it easy to come and go as needed.

    Protect your investment and save 20% now with code Wild0825 at YourGaragePro.com or call 800-992-2018.

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  • Shop Talk: See the (Sky)Light in a Vistabule Teardrop

    In September 2011, Bert Taylor decided he wanted a new challenge. In the past, he’d started a company that made furniture assembled with wine corks. He’d been a woodworker who designed Red Wing Shoes stores. And just when he was getting the entrepreneurial itch again, someone told him about “teardrop” trailers from the 1930s.

    As Taylor fell in love with the vintage, streamlined aesthetic, he knew designing one would be his next enterprise. When he told his wife he was going to start a new company, she said that was fine—so long as it was up and running by December 31.

    She didn’t specify a year.

    Vistabule Teardrops

    Bert Taylor in his domain (Photo Credit: Liam James Doyle)

    Taylor ordered build plans online, but wasn’t impressed. “I got about three quarters of the way through,” he says, “and I realized this is not how you should build a trailer.” So he scrapped that project and started on his own designs. By June 2012, he had a working model and took it on the road. Next, he launched a website. Keeping his promise (sort of ), he put the trailer on Craigslist on New Year’s Eve of 2012. It was priced at $9,900. It sold within three hours.

    Since then, Vistabule, the company Taylor launched, has moved out of his Minneapolis garage, into an 18,000-square-foot production facility in St. Paul, where it will soon build their one thousandth Vistabule. We spoke to him about canned ham trailers, the importance of light and of the allure of heading out for the horizon.

    Q: Where did the inspiration for the Vistabule come from?

    A: I had a friend who turned me on to vintage trailers from the 1950s and ’60s, like the Airstreams, the Shastas and Scotties. All these “canned ham” trailers. Then one day, he said: “Do an image search for teardrop trailers.” In the 1930s, people would make these little trailers in their garages. At the time, there was this aerodynamic push for airplanes, locomotives and automobiles to be long and sleek, and the teardrop trailer was from that era. I was just blown away. I thought: “Boy, at some point I’d like to do that.”

    Q: But your shape is a little different from the classic teardrop. Why?

    A: So much of it is form following function. When I decided I didn’t want to put my feet under the headboard, and I didn’t want to look at the back wall, I realized that if I turned the bed around 180 degrees, that meant the front of the trailer could come down quickly. And through the windshield, you could see not only the horizon, but also the sky. So it became more of a droplet.

    It’s always sunny in St. Paul (Photo Credit: Liam James Doyle)

    Q: Windows are a big feature in Vistabule trailers. Where did that come from?

    A: Rather than a bed in a drawer, I wanted it to be more of an observatory. Typically a teardrop is very claustrophobic. It’s really just meant to be a place to sleep, and I didn’t want that. I needed a visually permeable space. If I’m in there, I want to feel connected to the outdoors. I want to be able to gaze out at things. Those were my parameters in the design process. And it turns out people really like that.

    Q: There are a lot of teardrop companies out there. What makes Vistabule different?

    A: We’re an aesthetically oriented trailer company. We don’t want to be generic. For the people who buy them, it’s really important how they look going down the road and how they feel in their mind’s eye. The Vistabule aesthetic is to have a Willys Jeep and be pulling this thing over the horizon. You don’t know where you’re going. You’ve got a cool vintage car and a cool vintage trailer. You’re having an adventure.

    Q: What’s your hope for the company?

    A: It kind of harks back to Wally Byam, who was the inventor of the Airstream trailer. He wore a beret, and he would take people all over the world on these caravans. There are all these iconic images of dozens of Airstreams in all of these exotic places, like the pyramids or remote regions in Africa. I always think of that when I think of my business. I’d like it to have that kind of following. It wasn’t just about the trailer itself, it was about the community it creates, the camaraderie that comes when you travel together.

    Lead assembly technician Alex Monroe at work (Photo Credit: Liam James Doyle)

    Q: Has that happened?

    A: There is a community of Vistabule teardrops aficionados and owners who are always talking to each other online. We have rallies where we come together and have a lot of fun. People really love to share their knowledge about how they’ve customized their Vistabules. In the last few years I’ve seen this community grow. It’s become something bigger than the sum of its parts. And that’s something that I didn’t expect when I started this business. It’s been amazing to experience the joy people have for their trailers and their co-Vistabulers

    Shop: Vistabule Location: St. Paul, Minnesota Founded: 2012 Specialty: Teardrop Trailers

    Photo Credit: Vistabule

    Take Your Pick

    Vistabule sells two models of trailers today. The flagship Vistabule (starting at $23,995) is based on Taylor’s original design, while the more utilitarian Daytripper ($14,995) measures just 12 feet and weighs 1,000 pounds, making it an easy tow with nearly any vehicle.

    Photo Credit: Vistabule

    Deep Roots

    In 2015, the family-owned business moved into an old factory in St. Paul’s Midway neighborhood—one of the first businesses to occupy the space and begin the neighborhood’s revitalization. Today, prospective customers can visit the shop and work one-on-one with Vistabule’s team to design their trailer.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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  • A Riveting Pair: The Usonian Limited Edition Travel Trailer is Airstream x Frank Lloyd Wright

    There is no evidence that architect Frank Lloyd Wright and Wally Byam, legendary founder of Airstream, ever met. Both would no doubt approve of the latest addition to the famed RV brand’s lineup. The new Usonian Limited Edition Travel Trailer manages to channel the design philosophies of both men, creating a towable that elegantly and seamlessly connects to the natural world just outside its aluminum shell.

    A collaborative effort between Airstream and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, the travel trailer, unveiled in June, took nearly three years to complete. Both organizations saw a connection between their brands, working to fuse Wright’s architectural heritage neatly with Byam’s innovative engineering tenets. Both of these 20th Century greats found inspiration in nature, and worked to help others find that inspiration, too.

    Usonian Limited Edition Travel Trailer

    Photo Credit: Airstream/ Andrew Pielage

    Wright emphasized the importance of a building integrating into its surroundings. His projects were meant to exist harmoniously with the natural world, resulting in spaces both beautiful and functional. He played brilliantly with light and shadows, using distinctive materials like rock, wood, glass and fabric to blend his interiors with the exterior environment.

    Nowhere is this more evident than at Taliesin West, the architect’s compound in Scottsdale, AZ. It was there that Wright perfected his ideas on holistic design and organic architecture. His approach came to be known as “Usonian” design, a term Wright used to describe his distinctly American architectural aesthetic and his drive to create buildings that served their occupants above all.

    Photo Credit: Airstream/ Andrew Pielage

    Airstream, working closely with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, took plenty of inspiration from Taliesin West when designing this special-edition 28-footer. Obvious examples include awnings made from the same fabric that Wright used as ceiling panels throughout the compound; interior light sconces resemble those found there, too. And in a nod to Wright’s propensity for bringing outdoor environments inside, the RV has the most windows ever incorporated into an Airstream vehicle. The result is a cabin that feels bright and airy, creating a sense that the space is larger than it actually is.

    Both Wright and Byam believed that form and function should go hand in hand. That design principle is felt throughout the travel trailer. For instance, the rig includes a rear hatch to ease loading and unloading gear, also creating an alternative for entry and exit. But it’s also no accident that the hatch further opens up the interior space, adhering nicely to Wright’s approach of bringing users of his buildings closer to nature.

    Photo Credit: Airstream/Andrew Pielage

    Other multifunctional features include twin beds that serve as couches in the sleeping space, but automatically convert to a king-size bed at the touch of a button. The kitchen/living area features a wooden dinette and a desk, both of which create extra space by folding out of the way when not in use. The table and desk are flanked by a set of wooden chairs and a footstool, which collapse for easy transport and storage. At the campsite, those same chairs—which strikingly resemble those found at Taliesin West—can be taken outdoors, with the stool doubling as a small table.

    The travel trailer further distinguishes itself with the use of a whimsical graphic known as the Gordon Leaf Pattern throughout. Designed by one of Wright’s most prominent apprentices, this design element was named for Elizabeth Gordon, the longtime editor of House Beautiful magazine, one of the most influential design minds of the post-War period and major Wright ally. The pattern is most notably found on the door of the RV and in the kitchen, but is subtly incorporated throughout the trailer. It reinforces the idea of immersing yourself in nature at the campsite, while adding yet another link between Airstream and Wright’s work.

    Photo Credit: Airstream/Andrew Pielage

    Of course, this being an Airstream, the trailer comes with plenty of traditional RV features, too. Those include things like an energy-efficient 12V fridge, lithium house batteries, and 300 watts of solar panels on the roof. The kitchen is equipped with a three-burner gas stove, a microwave, and a single-basin stainless steel sink, while the dry-bath comes with a porcelain toilet and glass-doored shower.

    But the Wright-inspired design elements are what separate this RV from anything Airstream—or anyone else for that matter—has built before. Perfectly melding the architect’s design philosophy with Wally Byam’s ingenuity and vision, this is a rig that goes beyond what either man could have envisioned on his own. The result is something both new and fresh, and comfortingly familiar at the same time.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

    The post A Riveting Pair: The Usonian Limited Edition Travel Trailer is Airstream x Frank Lloyd Wright appeared first on RV.com.

  • The Most Iconic Road Trip Vehicles of All Time

    Let’s be real: vehicles are just tools. Whether you’re in a land-yacht-sized RV, a two-seat sports car or a big-bodied minivan, you just need to get where you’re going, safely and on schedule. On two wheels, four wheels or more, they’re merely a means to an end.

    Whatever! We all know this is “true,” but not true in a deeper sense. Especially when it comes to the epic form of travel known as the road trip, we all recognize that vehicles are not created equal. Many will get you there. Few will get you there in style. And only the most beloved (or notorious) rigs in America’s century-plus history of road-tripping truly changed how we travel.

    We set out to celebrate those vehicles. We started with big, frankly out-of-control lists of trucks, vans, RVs, muscle cars, you name it. Then we argued. (The Lamborghini Countach was a fraught topic.) We let the journey shape our list’s destination. (Three Fords? Yep, three Fords.) We winnowed. We ranked. We asked a few friends to ride along.

    Here, in reverse order, are our choices for the ten iconic road trip vehicles that made travel what it is today.

    iconic road trip vehicles

    Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive

    10: The Ford F-150 — Big and Rich

    The Era: 1975-Present
    Classic Version: Early ’90s models have a special something.
    Total Sales: More than 41 million!
    Telling Detail: Several bed lengths reflect a heritage of workhorse versatility.
    Cultural Moment: Hard to pick one, so we’ll go recent: Robyn Ottolini’s 2020 pop-country hit “F-150.” The late nights, the bonfires…

    Michael Charboneau, contributor to the Los Angeles Times, Men’s Journal and others, writes:

    If there’s any vehicle that can claim the title of “quintessential American truck,” it’s the Ford F-150. In a production run that spans nearly 80 years, more than 41 million F-series pickups have been sold. Today, you can find them everywhere from remote construction sites to suburban strip mall parking lots.

    Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive

    And yet somehow, this truck is not merely commonplace. In fact, the F-150 has long been my unattainable crush. When I was a kid, my dad had a green 10th-gen model. Although I never drove it, I did enjoy a fateful ride in the bed while he shuttled my buddies and me to an adjacent neighborhood for trick or treating. Gliding down the street with tree branches passing overhead, the wind gently rushing in my ears—that sold me on the magic of a pickup.

    My crush deepened in high school. As a teenager I wanted nothing more than a regular-cab Bullnose (produced 1980-86, distinguished by its prominent grill and square headlights). To me, the rig’s clean, straight lines and blocky shape were perfect. These trucks looked solid and timeless; built to work, beautiful in their simplicity. I pored over listings online, dreaming about cruising with the windows down, my girlfriend beside me on the wide bench seat. I vividly recall falling for a handsome long bed with a red and silver paint scheme. Unfortunately it was in West Virginia, hundreds of miles away. At 16, I had no money anyway.

    What would I have done if I got it? Probably what most people do: drive the hell out of it. Whether you slide a camper in the bed, tow a trailer or just toss a blanket in the back to look up at the stars, the F-150 is an ideal workhorse for exploring. It’s not sporty or fast, but it can promise one thing: It’ll get you there.

    Photo Credit: Winnebago

    9: Winnebago Brave — Land of the Free, Home of the…

    The Era: 1967-2016 (Multiple reintroductions)
    Classic Version: 1974 model with “thermosteel construction.”
    Total Sales: ≈150,000+
    Telling Detail: The trademark “eyebrow” over the front windshield.
    Cultural Moment: In the 1996 film Independence Day, Randy Quaid’s character drives a 1967 Brave

    The 1967 Winnebago Brave sent seismic shockwaves across the RV industry. Not only was this motorhome easy to drive with ample interior space, it also came with a long list of standard features, all at a surprisingly affordable price. As a result, it quickly became a smash hit, giving Winnebago its first major success in the motorized RV category.

    But the Brave’s influence went well beyond being a popular option for weekend camping trips and cross-country family vacations. As other manufacturers scrambled to duplicate Winnebago’s success, the motorhome’s boxy design and distinctive profile replaced the more van and
    bus-like designs that came before it. As a result, the Brave became the template for nearly all of the coaches that followed it, with its influence still felt across the RV industry to this day.

    Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive

    8: Ford Mustang — Born to Run

    The Era: 1964-Present
    Classic Version: 1965 convertible.
    Total Sales: 10+ million
    Telling Detail: The famous galloping wild horse badge.
    Cultural Moment: Steve McQueen’s 1968 Highland Green Mustang GT Fastback in the classic film Bullitt

    With their distinctive looks and overabundance of power, American muscle cars, like the Chevy Camaro, Dodge Challenger and Pontiac GTO, are the stuff of open-road fantasy. But for our money, nothing beats the dream of climbing behind the wheel of a classic 1965 Ford Mustang convertible, dropping the top and heading out for a long cruise up the coast. Any coast.

    Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive

    First introduced in 1964, the Ford Mustang has been an American institution ever since. And while competitors have come and gone, this car remains a Ford stalwart. The original model came with a 271-horsepower engine and could do zero to 60 in 5.9 seconds. (Not bad for $3,163.) From the get-go, this car oozed cool, quickly becoming both a pop-culture and road icon. Today, this pony can still run, and the current convertible is as drool-worthy as ever.

    Photo Credit: GM Archives

    7: Chevy Suburban — Suburban Cowboy

    The Era: 1934-Present
    Classic Version: 1973 Custom Deluxe
    Total Sales: 10+ million
    Telling Detail:  Extra-long rear side window, lighting up “the way back.”
    Cultural Moment: In 2019, the Suburban became the first vehicle awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for its recurring prominence in the movies.

    Few vehicles have occupied so many roles—and so much of America’s automotive attention—for so long. Released in 1934 in the era of woody station wagons, the Suburban offered something novel, or at least distinct. Neither a station wagon nor a truck, it eschewed wood for steel paneling and was marketed to both families and business owners with goods and people to move. Chevrolet called it the “Suburban Carryall”, a rig ready for a new generation of road tripper and laborer.

    The 20th Century would go on, and the Suburban would go with it, ultimately becoming the world’s longest-utilized automobile nameplate. In the ’50s, the Suburban was first featured in the movies, and has since made more than 1,700 appearances. In the ’70s, it ushered in the modern era of SUVs, a role that would make it a practical choice for parents and police, just as common in high-speed chases as it was at soccer fields. Twelve generations later, like any true star, the Suburban can play most any part.

    Photo Credit: Centro Documentazione Alfa Romeo Ariese

    6: Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GT — That’s Amore!

    The Era:1927-1954
    Classic Version: 1929 GT model
    Total Sales: 3,000
    Telling Detail: The 6C name nods to the six-cylinder engine.
    Cultural Moment: This Italian icon won numerous major European races throughout its production history.

    On road, on track, in whatever era of its three-decade life, the Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 swaggered with style and power, speed and performance. But it was the 1929 GT edition that bent road-trip history to its will, adding a dash of luxury and comfort to the mix. As one of the first vehicles purpose-built for long-distance travel, it helped promote the idea that driving wasn’t just about getting from point A to point B.

    Photo Credit: Centro Documentazione Alfa Romeo Ariese

    Perhaps more importantly, this was the first automobile to carry the “GT” or “Grand Tourer” designation—and far from the last. In the decades that followed, everyone from Ford and Chrysler to Porsche and Ferrari built a touring-focused “GT” car of some sort. Most of those models followed the 6C 1750 template, marrying performance and comfort to deliver a road-trip-worthy driving experience. And while this vehicle may not be as well-known as some of the others on this list, they all owe it a debt of gratitude.

    Photo Credit: Subaru

    5: Subaru Outback — Home Ranger

    The Era: 1994-Present
    Classic Version: The 2001 stands out, with many still on the road.
    Total Sales:  About 3 million in the U.S. as of 2024.
    Telling Detail: All-wheel drive, whether you need it or not.
    Cultural Moment: In 1994, Paul “Crocodile Dundee” Hogan introduced this model with a confident Australian twang: “This here is the all-wheel-drive Subaru Outback.”

    Kimberly King Parsons, author of acclaimed novel We Were the Universe, writes: When my family and I fled New York for Portland in 2017, the Subaru welcoming committee was idling curbside at the airport. The taxi line: Outback. The rental lot: Outback. Our new neighbors: an Outback with a “Coexist” sticker. By week two, I’d developed a tic—pointing out Outbacks to my kids, who’d long stopped caring. “There’s one! There’s another! My god, there’s a convoy!” The migration from Queens to this Subaru sanctuary felt like stumbling into some automotive monoculture where variety had been sacrificed to the gods of practical wheel clearance. We’d traded concrete canyons and subway grime for mountains that made us gasp and waterfalls so perfect they seemed computer-generated. We needed a car to match our new surroundings, something that wouldn’t fl inch at mud or judge us for tracking pine needles into its footwells. Soon enough, we bought a (very!) used Outback of our own. The kids named it Roo.

    Photo Credit: Subaru

    What nobody tells you about the Outback is how it beautifully embodies the charming paradoxes of the nation’s crunchier corners. (Subaru love runs strong in New England and the Rockies. In the cities of the Northwest, it’s almost impossible to look to the middle distance without seeing one, or seven.) It’s a vehicle designed for rugged adventure that may spend most of its time in Trader Joe’s parking lots. The all-wheel-drive system that Subaru made standard is both sometimes utterly necessary and often overkill—you’re prepared for apocalyptic weather events and driving conditions, and you can get to the coffee shop to chat about them.

    We loved the wheels off of Roo, and recently traded her in for an electric van. These days I look at Outback drivers with gentle affection and nostalgia. Maybe that’s what makes it an icon: its role as the first chapter in so many outdoorsy road-trippers’ journeys. The Outback was our gateway to something with more batteries, more smugness, more rooftop solar. But I sometimes miss that sturdy wagon. Our van has impressive range, but it lacks that sense of belonging, that quiet announcement of Pacific Northwest citizenship that comes standard with every Outback. Lucky for us, we still have 17 reusable grocery bags and a forgotten kombucha rolling around somewhere under the passenger seat.

    Photo Credit: Stellantis

    4: Jeep Wagoneer — It’s Yelling Timber

    The Era: 1962-1993
    Classic Version: 1984 Grand Wagoneer
    Total Sales: 500,000+
    Telling Detail: Long body, high clearance.
    Cultural Moment: In season three, episode two of Breaking Bad, Skyler White’s 1991 Wagoneer sits in the driveway as Walt throws a pizza on the roof of his house.

    In 1962, decades before luxury SUVs would become the most popular residents of American driveways, the Jeep Wagoneer broke automotive ground. Catering to drivers looking for space, utility and comfort, the Wagoneer wasn’t just an early SUV. It was one of the most reliably innovative vehicles of its time. The early models introduced features like power steering and braking, ceiling lights, automatic windows and air conditioning. In the decades to follow, the distinctive woody exterior would define the Grand Wagoneer models featuring V8 engines and Quadra-Trac four-wheel drive systems.

    As the era of station wagons gave way to minivans in the ’80s, the stalwart SUV remained a favorite among America’s well-heeled travelers. But while the Wagoneer was an early innovator, its body barely changed over the decades and it was discontinued in 1993. Then, after nearly three decades on the shelf, the Grand Wagoneer reemerged in 2022 as a high-end SUV ready for a new era of automotive luxury.

    Photo Credit: Airstream Heritage Center

    3: The Airstream Clipper — Silver Gets the Gold

    The Era: 1936-1941
    Classic Version: The original 1936 trendsetter.
    Total Sales: Unknown
    Telling Detail: The riveted aluminum construction, a tribute to aircraft engineering.
    Cultural Moment: In 2024, the Airstream Heritage Center exhibited “Clipper #1.”

    Mattew Every, Contributor to Field & Stream and Wildsam and sometime Airstream resident, writes: The travel trailer is, by its nature, a nostalgic genre of vehicle. The phrase brings to mind throwback campsites and endless summers on the road. The reason for this, if you had to pick just one, is Airstream. Travel trailers have an inherent retro appeal, yet most of them on the road today look completely different than their predecessors. Most, except for Airstream—which, despite advances in technology and design, stays true to the aesthetics of Wally Byam’s 1930s design for The Clipper.

    When I was confronted with a sprawling lot of new trailers at a dealership in 2020, I don’t exactly know why I landed on a Bambi, the Clipper’s 20-foot baby sibling. There was just a pride of ownership that I knew I’d have a hard time finding in another vehicle. It felt like a good pair of jeans, an L.L.Bean canvas tote, a Zippo lighter or a sturdy leather jacket. I knew it would wear in rather than wear out, and I couldn’t wait to watch it get better with age after every adventure.

    With thousands of miles logged on my Airstream in the past five years, I can say I made the right decision. My Bambi doesn’t have any slide-outs or giant televisions or a whole lot of space compared to many trailers today. But open the door and you’ll feel right away that it’s something of quality. The Airstream has always been built to last. Mine has only gotten better with age. Every dent or scuff in the floor serves as a reminder that I’ve been places. And it’s those reminders that make an otherwise cold, riveted metal capsule feel like my home on the road.

    Photo Credit: Greg Gjerdingen via WikiMedia

    2: Dodge Caravan — Mini to the Max

    The Era: 1984-2020
    Classic Version: 2005, featuring Stow ‘n Go seating storage.
    Total Sales: 14 million+
    Telling Detail: Crosshair grille.
    Cultural Moment: In 1996, MotorTrend magazine names the Caravan the “Car of the Year.”

    Vans existed before 1984. But until then, no one had released one geared toward families, short enough to fit in a garage, low enough to make loading kids a breeze, nimble enough that it would feel like driving a compact car around America’s suburbs. Enter Lee Iacocca, the wily auto exec who had been dumped by Ford because, among other reasons, he’d been pushing for this concept. When Iacocca joined the lagging Chrysler in 1978, his team started designing a “minivan” atop a car chassis. Six years later, it would hit the market as the Dodge Caravan, alongside its near-identical cousin, the Plymouth Voyager.

    Both were legendary vehicles—and the first-ever minivans—but it was the Caravan that left an indelible mark on family travel, becoming one of the country’s best-selling vehicles during its nearly 40-year run. (In 2019, the Caravan accounted for 54 percent of all minivans sold in the United States.) With its sliding doors, collapsible rear seating and ubiquity on roads across the U.S., the Caravan changed the way families thought about journeys near and far.

    Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive

    1: Ford Country Squire — King of the Road

    The Era: 1950-1991
    Classic Version: 1966 model with Magic Doorgate.
    Total Sales: 1.8 million
    Telling Detail: Distinctive wood paneling,
    Cultural Moment: A 1979 Country Squire was the stand-in for the “Family Truckster” in National Lampoon’s Vacation.

    Number one? Hear Us Out:

    It was the 1950s. The war was in the rear-view mirror, the country rode high on optimism and everybody liked Ike. Middle-class income was on the rise; road trip culture was taking hold thanks to the president’s ambitious Interstate Highway System. Cross-country sojourns and family vacations were all the rage.

    It was a time that changed how we travel in this country, right up to today. And the vehicle of that moment, more than any other, was the Ford Country Squire.

    With its signature wood-grain paneling, expansive cargo space and room for eight, the Country Squire became a symbol of suburban success. This car—or one of its many imitators—found its way into countless driveways. And even when parked at a white picket fence, it hinted at the freedom of the open road. The “woodie” station wagon even played a direct role in the rise in popularity of the national parks as family destinations. During the 1950s, visitation at those iconic locations rose to over 25 million a year, on its way to 80 million just a decade later.

    This wasn’t Ford’s first station wagon, of course, but it would become its most successful. The vehicle first rolled off the assembly line in 1949, although it wasn’t officially branded as the Country Squire until two years after that. By 1953, its trademark wooden side panels were replaced with simulated wood-grain metal, which remained a distinctive feature across eight generations. By the end of the 1950s, the wagon was selling 25,000 units a year, before reaching a peak of 143,000 in 1973. By that point, it had already achieved icon status—a true piece of Americana.

    By the time the Country Squire was retired in 1991, it had been in production for over 40 years. By then, our appetite for station wagons had been supplanted by the ever-increasing demand for minivans and SUVs. But there is no doubt that this car left an indelible mark on American culture, becoming the most recognizable road trip vehicle to ever roam the country and creating an entire genre of road-trip rides.

    For us, this Squire is the king.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

    The post The Most Iconic Road Trip Vehicles of All Time appeared first on RV.com.

  • Tech Spotlight: Steering Stabilizers for RVs and Tow Vehicles

    If you drive a big rig, chances are you’re familiar with steering wheel feedback, rut tracking and sway from crosswinds or passing semis. Everything from large, Class A motorhomes to Class Cs and B vans can experience these issues, and while products like aftermarket antisway bars, trac bars, or suspension upgrades help, what you really need might be a steering stabilizer.

    Kathy Doran, Executive Operations Manager at Safe-T-Plus, one of the leading steering stabilizer manufacturers on the market, says this remedy will help your RV feel less like it has a mind of its own. “You can go from driving two-handed, white knuckled, to having your cup of coffee in your hand and occasionally looking up at the pretty scenery you’re supposed to be enjoying,” Doran says.

    A steering stabilizer is essentially an additional control system that combines a horizontal shock absorber and spring specifically for your steering. They typically have a vehicle-specific fit and are easy to install, and can work wonders at reducing wheel feedback, creating a firmer, more confident feel on the road. These three products are among the industry’s most popular.

    steering stabilizers

    Photo Credit: Safe-T-Plus

    Safe-T-Plus

    Safe-T-Plus was founded by a trucker in 1980 who developed a steering stabilizer for semi trucks experiencing accidents from front tire blow-outs. Now, they make stabilizers for Class A, B and C motorhomes, camper vans, tow rigs and more. Their stabilizers are vehicle-specific, and feature simple, bolt-on installation. These stabilizers are also known for their positive centering ability, which helps with oversteering by automatically guiding your rig’s steering wheel back to center after a turn. MSRP: $456

    Photo Credit: Roadmaster

    Roadmaster Reflex

    Roadmaster makes steering stabilizers for everything from heavy Class A’s to Class B vans or Class C motorhomes. The Reflex series has a vehicle-specific fitment and is designed to correct oversteer, keep the steering wheel from jerking over bumps, and generally improve the feel of the vehicle. They attach to your rig’s steering mechanism on one end and chassis, and feature a heavy duty, tempered-steel spring that works to maintain its neutral position, returning your vehicle to center after unexpected events. $570

    Photo Credit: Bilstein

    Bilstein B6 Steering Damper

    The term “steering damper” is often used interchangeably with “steering stabilizer,” and while they are similar products, a steering damper like Bilstein’s B6 acts more like a traditional shock absorber. Its primary function is to dampen the effects of bumps and rough roads, while also helping the vehicle return back to center and control steering. Some RVs already have steering dampers from the factory, and the B6 can be a direct replacement. If your rig doesn’t have one, Bilstein also sells bracket kits for specific vehicles. $169

    The post Tech Spotlight: Steering Stabilizers for RVs and Tow Vehicles appeared first on RV.com.

  • Tech Q&A: A/C Blows Warm Air on the Highway, a Solar/Battery Upgrade, and More

    Our RV expert shares his insights and advice on a variety of topics. Got a question of your own? Send them to us at knowhow@wildsam.com.

    Thor ACE

    Photo Credit: THOR

    Hot Hot Highway Heat

    Q: We have a 2023 Thor ACE 32B on a Ford F-53 chassis. The dash air conditioner blows warmer air when we’re on the highway. At idle, 40-degree air comes out of the dash vents. At highway speeds, the air hits 60 degrees—no difference when the A/C is switched to recirculate. Neither RV dealer nor Ford dealer can solve the issue so far. Any insight?

    —William Taylor, Findlay, Ohio

    A: This is a fairly common problem. The heater and A/C controls in the dash are operated by vacuum servos, which rely on engine intake manifold vacuum. When the engine is idling, it produces peak vacuum, and therefore the system works fine. Then, as the engine’s load increases, vacuum drops off. If there is any leakage in the hoses or other components in the HVAC system, there won’t be enough vacuum. The system will then default to Defrost mode and divert airflow causing symptoms like you describe.

    The system needs to be diagnosed for vacuum leaks. It could be something as simple as a cracked or loose hose. Many well-equipped shops have smoke injection machines, designed to push smoke into the vacuum hoses and system. Smoke comes out, revealing the leaks. To ensure better operation, add a vacuum storage tank: Crown Automotive produces one. Also add a one-way check valve that when the engine is under heavy load it, doesn’t reduce the vacuum in the tank.

    Photo Credit: Eco-dynamic

    Towable Twofer

    Q: I’m a longtime camper and never missed an issue of Trailer Life with your articles and columns back in the day. I am looking at adding to my solar array and changing to AGM batteries because of conventional battery maintenance issues. My favorite supplier has closed. Can you recommend another source?

    —Ralph Spear

    A: Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries don’t require refilling and do generally last somewhat longer than conventional lead-acid batteries. However, if you are a heavy user of solar power, you might want to consider switching to lithium. They last much longer, are much lighter and maintenance free and have more usable capacity for a given size. You can discharge them more deeply without damaging them. Prices have been coming down, and there are good used ones available at a substantial savings. Suppliers include RV Solar Concepts and Precision RV Service, We’d love to hear from readers about their favorite solar supplier.

    Photo Credit: Getty Images

    Airbag Advice

    Q: Is there a consensus on the use of air bags for trailer towing?

    —Kathy and Cliff Andrews, Keizer, OR

    A: I doubt there is any consensus—folks argue about everything. But air bags are a great addition to many tow vehicles. Without knowing the specific year, make and model and the make and model of trailer, or its approximate tongue weight, I can only provide generalities. It’s important for the tow vehicle to be fairly level when hitched up and towing. Stiffer rear springs could keep the rig level, but when you are not towing the vehicle might ride very stiffly.  Air bags allow you to add pressure when the trailer is attached and reduce pressure when not towing. Some kits even have onboard compressors with remote filling capabilities, so you can adjust pressure from the cab.

    One important thing to remember: air bags should not be used to enable a vehicle to be overloaded. Never exceed the maximum gross rear axle weight rating or the tire ratings. Several companies manufacture air bags for pickup trucks. Kelderman Manufacturing, Firestone Airide and Air Lift are all well-known producers of air suspension systems, including those for light trucks. AccurAir Suspension also offers air suspension kits for various vehicles, including pickups.

    Ask Us Anything!

    Share your tech tales and send us your questions: knowhow@wildsam.com.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

    The post Tech Q&A: A/C Blows Warm Air on the Highway, a Solar/Battery Upgrade, and More appeared first on RV.com.

  • Buyer’s Guide: Luxury Class C Models for Ultimate Comfort on the Road

    Who says you need a Class A motorhome to have an upper-crust camping experience? These opulent RVs will have you rethinking what a luxury  Class C model can deliver.

    Luxury Class C

    Photo Credit: Entegra Coach

    Entegra Coach Condor

    Adventure and luxury collide in this outstanding rig. Built for comfortable off-grid camping, this Condor flies on a Ford Transit AWD chassis that makes getting to and from remote campgrounds a breeze. And once you’re there, you’ll enjoy such upscale amenities as residential vinyl flooring, a spacious wet bath, twin beds that convert to a king and a JBL sound system with six removable wireless speakers. An outdoor kitchen comes standard, as does a 200W solar panel and a powerful HVAC system for four-season camping. MSRP starts at $218,550.

    Photo Credit: Grand Design

    Grand Design Lineage Series F

    Expansive and powerful, this Super C model is Grand Design’s second motorized RV. It comes with four-wheel drive and a custom-built suspension system, making it one of the smoothest-riding RVs on the road. Inside, you’ll find a massive king-size bed, power theater seating, a booth dinette and washer/dryer prep. The large bathroom, with a residential-style shower, is especially impressive. MSRP starts at $292,418

    Photo Credit: Leisure Travel Vans

    Leisure Travel Vans Unity

    Available in six floor plans, the Unity is an easy-to-drive Class C that doesn’t skimp on luxuries. The fit and finish utilize upscale materials
    and components throughout, including generous wood, Corian solid surface countertops and premium synthetic leather upholstery. All models come with a spa-inspired dry bath, beautiful LED accent lighting and plenty of storage inside and out. An autostart generator and lithium house battery are standard. MSRP starts at $210,200.

    Photo Credit: Renegade

    Renegade Veracruz

    Renegade is known for some of the most luxurious RVs on the road, and the Veracruz is no exception. From maple hardwood cabinetry, solid surface countertops and plush fabrics, to soft-close drawers and tiled kitchen backsplash, no detail has been overlooked. Modern appliances, a powerful and efficient HVAC system, three LED TVs and an 8,000W Onan quiet diesel generator round out the standard features. MSRP starts at $263,760.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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