Mobile Outfitters Straptek Kit Makes Weight Distribution Easier

There is often more than one way to get a job done, and adjusting the weight tension for towing a trailer is no different. The Mobile Outfitters Straptek Kit offers an easier way to adjust the weight distribution for trailers and other towed vehicles. The standard way has typically been through the use of chains and snap-up brackets, but the Straptek uses durable polyester straps and a ratchet winch to do the job.

Using this system comes with many benefits, including ease of use and an increase in safety. Weight tension can be set using just a simple socket wrench. Added to that is the fact that the trailer does not need to be lifted and lowered in order to use the Straptek. With conventional set ups, spring bars can store the built-up tension and once released can cause potential injury. Using the Straptek system makes things safer for you and takes less time by being able to adjust the spring bars without lifting.

Another advantage to using Straptek is that it is able to provide better sway control than a chain and bracket system. Chains often leave several inches of extra length, which can cause problems if there is no other sway control device in use. The Straptek reduces the length between the assembly and the spring bar, so there is greater control while on the road. It also keeps things quieter, eliminating the noise chains can cause. It works with most kinds of weight distribution systems and includes 2 Straptek assemblies and attachment bolts, as well as the straps to go with them.

The Carefree of Colorado EZ Zipblocker Is The Perfect RV Awning Accessory

Top section of EZ Zipblocker installed.

The Carefree EZ Zipblocker is a product I have been waiting for ever since I saw A & E awnings version back in 2007.  The A & E version was a great concept with it's motor driven integration in the awning roller tube, but I don't see they offer this anymore, so there may have been problems with it's durability.  Even so, this new sun shade for your awning is a great product that most all RV'ers can install and enjoy.

So what is the EZ Zipblocker

The Carefree of Colorado EZ Zipblocker is a mesh screen that is inserted into your awnings roller tube to block up to 85% of light. Depending on how your parked, you maybe getting blasted by the sun low in the horizon in the morning or evening when your awning just can't provide shade. With the EZ Zipblocker in place, you now get much better shade coverage from your awning keeping you cool and comfortable without blocking your view. The top zipper section of the screen is inserted into the open slot on most any awning roller tube and stays installed even when your roll your awning up for storage.  This allows you to reach the zipper section without a ladder when you set up again and simply zip the body panel into place.  The black mesh fabric is constructed of woven 100% polyester with a durable vinyl coating and features grommets in the body section to allow for tie downs.

What makes this Awning Sun Screen Better

Here is the beauty of this sun screen.  That zippered section that is installed in the open slot of your awning remains there even when you close the awning.  So no more installation and removal of a long sun screen that usually needs the help of another person. Depending on which model you purchase you may only need a foot or two of protection and thus never zip the body screen section in place. But if you need full sun protection it's easily zipped on to the top section in just a matter of seconds without the need of a ladder.

A Weekend of Use

So I got a few days to play around with the EZ Zipblocker and I love it!  We put it up on a sunny morning and immediately felt the benefits of additional sun protection under the awning.  I generally never stake my awning down and rely on the wind sensor to bring the awning in when winds get to high.  For this reason I purchased the 9' drop which gives me a 3' section of Zipblocker that remains installed in the awning.  This is probably the only section I will use in the majority of cases since it provided a lot of sun coverage than with the awning by itself.   Another great benefit of this two piece system is that it is very easy to install by just one person. With the two sections apart, each one is very light and easy to manage.  It comes in a nice fabric carrying case and includes stakes to tie it down if so desired.  We had a decent breeze through out the day and the top section just floated back and forth (see photo above) and I don't see it being an issue even in higher winds.

Carefree of Colorado hit a home run with this great awning accessory by making it easy to use and compatible with most all awnings.   If you have questions or comments, please leave us a note here or contact us and we will be happy to help.

Tips for Using Your Stabilizing Jacks

Have you ever spent time in a trailer when the stabilizer jacks aren't deployed? The rocking of the unit can make you feel off balance and can negatively impact the way your refrigerator and other appliances function if you are out of level. Regardless of whether you use the looking for ideas on how to keep your RV from rocking or your in need of additional jacks to help with the problem, these tips can help you create a stable environment, no matter where you are.

Bring Wood or Use Jack Pads for a Base

Many campsites are located on gravel or dirt pads that aren't always the most stable base for your trailer. If you engage your stabilizing jacks on these surfaces, they can sink into the ground and may not offer the stability you are looking for. Before you head out on your next camping trip, cut small pieces of wood that fit beneath your jacks to give them a solid surface on which they can rest. The wood or jack pads should extend beyond the jacks by a couple of inches for greater stability.

Chock the Wheels

It isn't only the stabilizing jacks that are responsible for keeping your trailer steady while you spend time inside. Chocking the wheels can lend additional stability to your trailer and is mandatory before you unhitch your tow vehicle. You can purchase plastic or metal blocks in a variety of designs that best suit your needs. There are also locking chocks that lock tandem axle trailer tires together and provide even less movement than wheel chocks.  Secure the wheels before engaging your jacks to ensure the most stability.

Consider Jack Stabilizers

For shorter trailers, the jacks installed on the trailer itself are typically enough to provide the support you need. Unfortunately, longer trailers often need an extra support to increase stability throughout the trailer. Jack stabilizers are supports that attach to the frame of the trailer and connect to the the jack itself.  By adding these jack supports in both directions you will have the ultimate in trailer stability.  

Stabilizing jacks are necessary to give your trailer stability and prevent rocking and swaying motions when you walk around inside. However, using these jacks by themselves doesn't always provide the stability you need. In addition to the jacks, bring along wood blocks or jack pads to create a solid surface for the jacks.  Also wheel chocks will help further stabilize the trailer and possibly adding jack stabilizers for those longer trailers. With these tips, you can make your trailer as solid as rock.

If you need more jacks to keep your trailer still, contact us. We carry a selection of stabilizing jacks for all types of trailers.

Thetford Rubber Roof Cleaner & Conditioner Helps With RV Roof Maintenance

Just like any other part of your RV, the rubber roof needs to be maintained and kept clean as well. It is not something that needs to be done particularly often, unless your RV is in an area where it is prone to dirt or tough stains. Using a combination cleaner and conditioner such as the one from Thetford makes keeping your RV's roof looking like new much easier by merging two steps into one. The cleaner will help get rid of stains and dirt, while the conditioner will help the roof stay protected in the future.

Thetford's Rubber Roof Cleaner and Conditioner works not only with rubber, but with fiberglass or aluminum rooftops as well. It works well on hard to clean stains, such as those from leaves and mildew. The conditioner includes UV protection, so potential damage from the sun's harmful rays is prevented. Because the formula is biodegradable, it is easier on the environment. It will not cause the rubber to crack or swell up, as it does not contain any petroleum.

According to Thetford, it is recommended that the roof be cleaned at least at the start and end of the season as part of an overall RV cleaning. If you are cleaning more than one section of the RV, it is best to start with the roof and work your way down. This way you don't risk getting dirt on a section that has already been cleaned. Keep in mind the safety factor when roof cleaning, so as to avoid injury. Different cleaning accessories to assist in application, such as brushes and buckets, are also available.

The Eaz-Lift Metal Locking Wheel Stop Secures Your RV's Wheels

When you are parking your RV for an extended period, the last thing you want to worry about is having the tires shift unexpectedly for some reason, causing a problem. You want to make sure the tires will stay in one place, despite whatever they may be subjected to. This can be especially helpful when there is a lot of movement going on inside the RV. One way to prevent this is by using a wheel stop such as the one from Eaz-Lift. This locking wheel stop will prevent the wheels from moving around by providing the tension needed to keep them in place. This increases the overall stability of your RV when it is not in motion.

The wheel stop creates a strong grip on each side, and can be locked in position to help hold it in place. There is no need to worry about the wheel stop being exposed, as the metal surface stays resistant against the elements. The curved sides can fit in between tires that are as close as 3 inches or as far as 10 inches apart. Simple to use, the wheel stop can be adjusted to the right width using the included wrench. Because the sides are curved, they can maintain reliable contact with the tires, preventing the wheel stop from slipping out of place. When collapsed down, it is easy to store due to its compact dimensions. The Eaz-Lift locking wheel stop will add to the safety of your RV and make it less susceptible to movement.

The Camco Power Defender Voltage Monitor Protects Your RV From High Voltages

When you are out camping, especially at a new campground that you haven't been to before, you want to be sure things are safe when you go to hook up your RV to a power pedestal. Electrical protection is crucial to avoiding potential accidents and problems, some of which can be severe if the proper precautions aren't taken. This blog has discussed the general benefits of RV surge protection before, because it is so important. Today I will be discussing the details of one protection product in particular, the Camco Power Defender Voltage Protector Monitor.

This voltage monitor can detect when incorrect voltage occurs and take appropriate action to protect you and your equipment from the problem. When the voltage goes beyond the safe range, power to the RV is disabled, returning once voltage falls back within safer levels. There is a delayed response when power returns, so as not to cause a sudden power surge for your electrical devices. Easy to use, it features hand grips on each end, making it easier to ensure that complete connections are made. They also help when it comes time to remove the device. 

Whether you own a 30 Amp or 50 Amp RV, the Camco Power Defender can keep things safer for you and anyone who may be traveling with you. It will help protect your equipment from damage, not only from high voltages, but also from reverse polarity. When it is initially plugged in to the power pedestal, the LED indicators on the device can inform you of the problem that is detected. Pedestals without power can also be detected by this voltage monitor.

Voyager Digital Wireless RV Backup Camera System Featuring WiSight Technology

ASA Electronics offers a revolutionary RV Backup Camera called the WiSight digital wireless observation system. This observation system features a camera that installs into the running lights or other 12-volt circuit on the back of your truck, trailer or motorhome for easy installation. The monitor installs on your dash using the included mount and 12 volt accessory plug for power. The system is designed to help eliminate blind spots and provide vision at the rear of the vehicle. The innovative WiSight Technology digitally locks the Voyager camera to the monitor so it only communicates with that monitor thus ignoring outside signals and eliminating interference.

WiSight technology works on vehicles 60+ feet in length, a significantly longer distance than wireless analog systems. With the WiSight technology locked in you will receive a sharper, more vivid picture of the vehicle’s surroundings on the 5.6” color LCD monitor. A suction cup windshield mount and 12-volt DC power plug for the monitor make this system easily portable among towing vehicles.  The camera is powered by connecting to the taillights or running lights.  Package includes a 5.6 LCD color monitor with integrated receiver, one 12-volt accessory plug, a suction cup monitor mount, one rear color camera with integrated transmitter, stainless steel hardware and non-corrosive camera mounting bracket.

This system is perfect for fifth-wheels and travel trailers because it eliminates wires or cables and the monitor can easily be transferred to any tow vehicle.  For more information on this advanced RV backup camera system --> Click Here