Getting Close - RV-Dreams Community Forum

GENECOP · RV-Dreams Family Member

Getting Close

bjoyce · RV-Dreams Family Member

When we started we were lucky to have an RV Driving School instructor close to where we lived. In February 2002 we took lessons in Albany, OR and have never regretted the decision. Unfortunately it doesn't look like they are teaching lessons close to where you are, but you can always contact them to see if someone will be in your area sometime.

Mallo · RV-Dreams Family Member

Gene,

Get a truckers atlas so you can validate that your GPS (if you use one) isn't sending you down a non truck route.

The atlas also has all the low bridge clearances listed.

It's no big thing remember 80 year olds do this all the time.

My first drive was from Fort Worth to Philly with an Ice storm coming in behind me and rush hour traffic in front of me. It was exciting but I made it.

Remember slow and steady if in doubt hit your hazards and check where you are before moving forward.

Mallo

altsclmarm · RV-Dreams Community Member

I'm new here so I don't know if that 45' is a motorhome or trailer plus tow vehicle. My suggestion, take a deep breath, take your time, and watch your mirrors. Enjoy yourself! It's a great life.

Happytrails · RV-Dreams Family Member

We own a motorhome so I can't give you pointers on driving a fifth wheel but I can say (which I am sure you already know) take your time when picking up your rig. Have these folks show you everything you need to know. Go over the hook up and the unhooking. I wouldn't hesitate to take it, and the PDI person, on a test run. If there is a vacant lot somewhere that would be terrific. Just take your time. Some dealerships even have a place you can camp for a day to get used to the rig and ask questions as they might come up. You will do fine and be on the road to a wonderful adventure and lifestyle.

Good luck!!! :)

Roz · RV-Dreams Family Member

Gene,

You will do well with your MH. Just take turns wide and slow. Six hours with the RV Driving School is the best investment you can make. I realize that you are unable to arrange this immediately.

The most likely manuever that can "get you" will be turns in tight places. Right turns will be harder than left, as you will not have a lane to cross. Find a large open area and put a cone or substitute on your right and find out how far you must pass the cone prior to making your turn so your rear axles do not hit the obstacle.

Beyond that simply concentrate on what you are doing. Dennis Hill, owner of RV Driving School allayed my wife's fear of Interstate driving by telling her, "Concentrate on staying in your lane and others will be doing the same."

Yes there are instances when someone will encroach on your space. Professional truck drivers are schooled to always have "an out" in your mind that will get you out of harms way. They are also schooled to check your sideview mirrors at least every 10 to 15 seconds to avoid surprises.

These two things will serve you well, and like I said, you will do fine. You can never relax totally. You are a "big vehicle".

I look forward to seeing your beautiful rig on the road!

Charles

GENECOP · RV-Dreams Family Member

A sincere thanks to all, Gene

kevinlvy · RV-Dreams Community Member

GENECOP wrote:

Come April, we pick up our new RV in IN--then drive to the Rally in SC---45ft long, no real exp, and thats our first road trip . A little nervous, but mostly excited. Any pointers from the experianced road warriors in the community? To be clear, i have put many miles on a TT---17ft pulled by a Dodge Durango, also drove a landscaping trailer setup as a kid. One of my main concerns are Routes, Truck routes for me i guess, and no Mcdonalds Drivethrus, Thanks Gene.

Good day and a pleasant new year to my name is Kevin from alma,wi and i am also looking for rv's a couple of weeks back and decided to finally formulate a plan to acquire one and use my dodge durango to tow it currently i am researching all the forums around to get an idea / gist of it.

here is the status of my truck as of the moment.

2005 dodge durango accessory belt tensioner- has been replaced since it broke

replaced shocks

replaced disk brakes

any other things to add?

thanks!

-- Edited by kevinlvy on Monday 10th of January 2011 05:45:05 PM

TxYellowRose · RV-Dreams Family Member

Gene,

Congrats on the upcoming adventure! It's almost finally here!

You will be fine with all the great suggestions here combined with your prior experience. I agree, the Motor Carriers Atlas is a great buy. I love ours!

Cheers,
Betty