|
Post by vikx on Sept 1, 2015 19:55:09 GMT -8
Hi All,
I have friends arriving soon. They are going to take their brand *new* vintage trailer camping for the first time! So, I was wondering if you have advice on items to have inside, tools, road types (or campgrounds!) to avoid, anything that comes to mind.
The trailer is rebuilt from the ground up and has new trailer tires, bearings are packed, everything checked and tested. So the trailer itself is good to go. However, the owners have never had a trailer/RV before. They will be towing with an XTerra rated at 5000 lbs towing capacity. Trailer comes with 4 wheel chocks and stack jacks.
Here are a few of my ideas at the moment:
1. A light weight ladder to facilitate hanging the awning. 2. A hammer and a few tools, pliers, cutters and screwdrivers 3. Flashlight 4. Some sort of tarp or plastic in case a person has to get on the ground 5. A leveler block, two tiers. Or some 2 x 6 pieces
Please chime in with ALL ideas! Thanks. As this goes along maybe we can write up a blurb aimed at our newest owners. Vikx
Just Thought: Practice BACKING the trailer...
|
|
SusieQ
Global Moderator
Posts: 4,781
Likes: 1,197
'62 Shasta Compact
Currently Offline
|
Post by SusieQ on Sept 1, 2015 20:52:35 GMT -8
Here are some of things I find necessities: 1. Small tool box with basics a.hammer b. screw driver with changeable bits (I carry my small cordless drill motor, too, batteries and charger. c. a couple of different sizes of crescent wrenches (adjustable wrenches have saved me in the past). d. Tire tool (4 way lug) e. small level f. electrical tape g. duct tape (of course) f. BRIGHT light/batteries g. pliers and channel locks f. gloves
2. Vinyl table cloth and clips to hold it on(also works if you need to use it to lay on or sit on or cover something 3. Small broom 4. small dish pan 5. extension cord 6. power cord and water hoses 7. water pressure attachment for faucet 8. small tarp (you just never know) 9. bungees 10. small rope or cord, (I carry clothes line cord) 11. rain ponchos 12. 12v air compressor
Ok, that's it for me.
h.
|
|
|
Post by vikx on Sept 1, 2015 21:03:41 GMT -8
One thing that works for us is Ryobi 18 volt tools. Since I use the jig and skill type saw and love the flashlights, that might be the way to go. 2 batteries would work everything, including a small hand vac. Of course, most would just need a flashlight and vac. LOL.
|
|
|
Post by Teachndad on Sept 1, 2015 21:13:02 GMT -8
Hi and congrats to the new buyers! I would suggest a step ladder instead of a small ladder. They can take up a lot less space. I would suggest a cheap yoga mat for any need where you need to crawl underneath. They roll up tightly and neatly. Again, it takes up little space. In a pinch, one of those sun reflectors that you put up in your windshield will do to lie on should you need to get under the trailer, if you have nothing else. SPARE TIRE. Does the trailer have brakes? The Xterra will need a brake controller wired in unless it's stock. Does the Xterra have a 4 pin or 7 pin connector to match the trailer wiring? I would think the stock hitch on the Xterra is able to handle the tongue weight on the "new" trailer. Just checking. The Xterra is a bit short on wheelbase and may need one of those thingies that slows the motion from the hitch ball to the trailer tongue. I can't remember what it's called. Don't really know. Just throwing it out there for others to comment on. Double check that the Xterra has a transmission cooler. I THINK that the Xterra came with a tow package, but I have no idea. Rod
|
|
|
Post by vikx on Sept 1, 2015 22:04:20 GMT -8
Trailer does not have brakes.
XTerra has a 7 pin, with tow package. Maybe a sway bar is the object you describe? That could help a lot.
The mat idea is a good one and easy to stow.
|
|
|
Post by Teachndad on Sept 1, 2015 22:33:59 GMT -8
Trailer does not have brakes. XTerra has a 7 pin, with tow package. Maybe a sway bar is the object you describe? That could help a lot. The mat idea is a good one and easy to stow. Yes, Vikx, This is what I was suggesting - A friction sway control kit www.etrailer.com/Weight-Distribution/Pro-Series/83660.html. I know nothing about this particular one. It's just a link for reference. Cheers Rod
|
|
turbodaddy
1K Member
Posts: 1,086
Likes: 462
17' 1965 Fan "Sunseeker"
Currently Offline
|
Post by turbodaddy on Sept 2, 2015 5:32:13 GMT -8
You guys took care of all the hardware, nice job! Now here are some "comfort / safety" items:
Insect repellent Good old fashioned compass and real maps Well stocked first aid kit walkie talkies (good to stay in touch when hiking in areas w.o cell service) 10,000 candle power light and Falcon air horn to blind and startle potential unwanted nighttime visitors Gorilla tape
|
|
edog1973
Junior Member
Posts: 72
Likes: 24
1961 Traveleze
Currently Offline
|
Post by edog1973 on Sept 2, 2015 7:17:16 GMT -8
Since most vintage trailers do not have gray water tanks they will probably need portable water tank to catch the sink drain if they are going to be staying in campgrounds. A simple water pressure regulator to protect their plumbing.
If it has a black water tank chemicals will be needed. And, a spray wand and/or a 3" fitting with a hose connector to properly clean out the tank.
|
|
|
Post by vikx on Sept 2, 2015 10:08:02 GMT -8
The plan is to take these great ideas and turn them into an organized list. I'm thinking categories like tools, comfort (LOVE the bug spray idea!), towing etc. The waste tank could save the day at some campgrounds.
WALK ABOUT: Walk around the trailer and double check that windows are closed, door is locked, tongue is properly connected, and the step is in the stowed position. Don't forget the roof vent.
|
|
Hamlet
2K Member
Posts: 2,820
Likes: 925
Currently Offline
|
Post by Hamlet on Sept 2, 2015 13:19:27 GMT -8
Since Hamlet doesn't have a step, we have used one of those little plastic folding step stool things. They weigh less than a pound, easily and safely hold a couple hundred pounds, they are stable, and plenty tall enough to get the awning on. Add sunscreen if it's going to be sunny. And ALWAYS have a pen and a journal, especially on the first few trips. It's a great way to remember what you want to remember for the next trip.
Great idea for the lists, vikx. Especially the walk about part, add boot locked, lights working and inside that loose articles have been secured (as even things in the icebox will tip and spill if not secured somehow.
|
|
turbodaddy
1K Member
Posts: 1,086
Likes: 462
17' 1965 Fan "Sunseeker"
Currently Offline
|
Post by turbodaddy on Sept 2, 2015 15:01:39 GMT -8
Hamlet's "loose articles put away" comment is timely for me. I just was reading the (hand typed!) original manual for our '65 FAN. There were a couple of things I wouldn't have thought of (until its too late). When underway, stowe away the stove grates so they don't bounce around and damage the stovetop finish. Also remove and wrap the gas lamp globes. Another was kinda cool. I always wondered why the dinette cushions were vinyl on one side and fabric everywhere else. Manual says, "turn dinette cushions vinyl side up when eating, and fabric side up for sleeping."
Something else for the list. Fire extinguisher(s).
|
|
SusieQ
Global Moderator
Posts: 4,781
Likes: 1,197
'62 Shasta Compact
Currently Offline
|
Post by SusieQ on Sept 2, 2015 18:14:18 GMT -8
Tie wraps . Ugh. I forgot my tie wraps. And WD 40!
|
|
|
Post by vikx on Sept 2, 2015 21:21:54 GMT -8
I wrote a rough draft this morning. The quick ties are there, thanks Susie!
Always need pen and paper when meeting people. Stool, yeah VERY important to help us get into the trailer...
And never thought about the icebox for "loose" items. EEEW. Stove grates, check. Gas lamp globes, check.
Fire extinguisher! Why didn't I think of that. More editing to do. Perhaps add a Loose Items category.
|
|
|
Post by vikx on Sept 2, 2015 21:31:07 GMT -8
Here's the First Draft:
You’ve just purchased a *new* vintage trailer and you’re ready to go Camping! Such excitement! Following is a nitty gritty list of things to take, what to do and more.
TOW VEHICLE: Not a lot on vehicles here. Just the basics: Be sure the vehicle is mechanically sound. Tire pressure as recommended for towing? Trailer receptacle working properly? A tow vehicle’s towing capacity should be more than the total towing weight. This includes the trailer, camping stuff, food, and PEOPLE. Pay attention to this.
BATTERY: Test the trailer battery voltage. Top off water, inspect connections.
WALKABOUT: Check that everything is secured before you go. Close all windows and roof vents. Lock the door and tie if necessary. Stow the step in the travel position. Check that the trunk lock is secure. Pick up jacks and remove wheel chocks. Inspect the coupler closely. It should be locked on the ball, safety chain(s) in place and the cord supported against drag. Check the tow lighting and be sure all work. Be sure that all is secure inside the trailer: drawers, doors and loose items. Just one item rolling around can cause major damage. Do a final walkabout and double check all above.
COMFORT ITEMS: Insect spray and possibly a citronella candle A yoga pad, tarp or plastic to protect against ground dampness when placing jacks, etc. First Aid Kit. This should be well stocked and checked before every trip. Gloves Rain Ponchos
INSIDE THE TRAILER: FIRE EXTINGUISHER Broom and Dust Pan, small enough to store Small dish pan Plastic table cloth and clips (can double as ground mat) Potty chemicals, cleaners, soap, paper towels Stow stove grates for travel to prevent chipping Stow gas lamp globe Secure items inside the icebox. Spillage can be a disaster... Salt and Pepper!
TOOLS and SUPPLIES: A small tool box with everyday tools. Hammer Pliers and a pair of cutters Screw drivers or one with multichange bits. Small pry bar (remove hubcaps, pry stubborn items, etc) Tire tools: star lug wrench and jack for vehicle and/or trailer Crescent wrench and Vice Grips Duct tape and electrical tape Good sharp knife, maybe a multi use type with a small saw blade Quick ties and Bungies String and small rope WD 40 BRIGHT Flashlight with good battery(s)
TRAILER NECESSITIES: Power cord. Should be minimum 14 gauge with ground, 25 feet. Extension cord, same as above Electrical adapters: 30 to 15 amp, 15 to 30 amp and multi outlet Water hose and 45 PSI regulator. Be sure hose is rated for drinking water. 4 stack jacks to support trailer while camping 4 wheel chocks. Bucket and/or waste Tote (required at some campgrounds) Small light weight ladder if your trailer is tall
LUXURIES: 12 volt air compressor* Re-chargeable tools and charger (can include hand vac, flashlight, *compressor, etc.) Portable 12 volt battery and connectors Walkie Talkies or phones with great signal
|
|
|
Post by vikx on Sept 2, 2015 21:33:07 GMT -8
I'll be editing as we go and replacing the First Draft with subsequent improved lists.
Comments/Corrections WELCOME!
|
|