Alpine rally vs. FMCA rally

[dwebcbceo]

A questions for you veterans. I can't attend both the Apline pre-rally and the FMCA rally in August. Which event would be most beneficial for a newby like me?

Thanks for your advice.

Dave Weber
2008 Limited SE 40MDTS

[SteveS]

For general RVing information and technical classes/information the FMCA rallies are great. They also have a lot of information on systems that might also be used in Alpines. Don't forget, Alpines use products from vendors at the FMCA rally. You can usually get plenty of maintenance hints and procedures on these systems. For instance, batteries, charging systems, transmissions, satellite TV, cleaning tools and products, tires, windows, power protection systems, and a wealth more. Since FMCA probably is one of the largest rallies, plenty of vendors will be there to help sort out problems, provide information, and of course, sell products. Usually the larger the rally, the more vendor support you get. However, you will probably not find any Alpine specific information...if you do it will be very limited.

So, it depends on what you are after and your current background.

[Jim A]

I would tend to agree with Steve, you will get lots more general RVing information at the FMCA if that's what you need the most. But I would suggest trying to get the best of both worlds. I assume that the ACA group will caravan to the FMCA rally from somewhere so that they can all park together. If you meet them at their rendevouz point, you can park with them at the rally and get the best of both worlds. Then you can get Alpine Coach specific help if you need it.

Either way, enjoy it.

[dwebcbceo]

Jim & Steve,

Thanks for the feedback. I appreciate your thoughts.

Dave Weber

[Old Rv'er]

Not being an expert, and only having attended one FMCA rally. I can only speculate, but since you are an alpine owner, I believe attending the Pre Rally in Salem, OR will give/provide you more information specific to your Motorhome. The FMCA seminars will focus more on specific systems general to all types of RV's. The wealth of knowledge you will gain from just meeting the Alpine owners cannot be equaled, as there might be as many as 55 alpines present. That being the case, you have all those "experts" to brain pick over and any issues you might be experiencing. If I have to choose, and I do, I am going to the pre-rally. See the post at the top of the Alpine Forum to get a reservation form and what to expect to see/hear/do.