In February of 2012, we decided to embrace the idea of a 5th wheel. In our search for one, we knew we wanted to go with a used one. We didn't really know what we were getting into, or what we really wanted in one. We decided to give it a try and see what happened.
We purchased a 1998 Chevy Dually diesel and a 2001 Dutchmen ES33 with 2 slides. After getting things transferred from the travel trailer to the 5th wheel, we got comfortable in our new home. The difference in space and storage was like night and day. We were no longer overweight with the things we wanted to keep.
Speaking of weight, it is imperative to keep an eye on the weight you carry with any RV. It is very easy to make your RV heavier than it is designed for. Once you get your RV loaded, make a trip to the scales to see what you are weighing in at. You would be surprised at how things add up in a short time.
On our first trip, we took a short trip to Indian Springs, approximately 50 miles from the home base. I knew the truck still needed engine work and as suspected, it pulled very hard. It wasn't the trailer weight since that was still within the limits of the truck, it was that I had not done the work I wanted to do to increase the horsepower to what it was suppose to be able to have. We enjoyed our trip anyways and had fun with the grand kids, swimming, fishing and bike riding. Having a long bed allowed me to bring the bicycles along.
I was amazed at the difference in pulling the 5th wheel. There was no sway like we had with the travel trailer and hookup was much easier. No more torsion bars to pull on or trying to align the ball with the trailer. Now I could look into the rear view and match up the truck with the 5th wheel. I think I found heaven.
I also began something new, a checklist. I got a checklist app for the tablet and began a list of items to be checked before leaving. Nothing like leaving the electrical cord plugged in when leaving. Don't ask how I know that. It was that incident that made me look for and get a checklist app for the tablet. Now I go through the checklist each and every time. No skipping any items. Occasionally, I will add a new item to go along with the checklist. You can get checklists online at various sites, however, you will need to add or subtract item that are pertinent to your RV and travels. Everyone travels differently. Some bring all their food with them and therefore need to verify that they have everything. Others eat out during their travels, so their list of items to bring is much less. Don't be afraid that your checklist is long. The more detailed it is, the better prepared you are.
I still visit RV.net and rvnetworks.com to see what is new and what new items I can add to modify my RV to make it more ours. Stay tuned for more to come and remember to RV with Style
