Just how hard is it to drive a 32ft Class A ???

[Webetravelin]

So dear friends... just how hard is it to learn how to drive a 32ft Class A motorhome? Looks like this coming weekend, we'll become the proud owners of our very first RV.

Our sale person said he would teach us how to drive the rig, make those Right Turns - back it up and just get comfortable driving it..as we have no experience at all.

We found a storage area that will allow us to day camp as we bond with the vehicle ... and we can take it out on the road for short trips or for the weekend... so you do remember you're first time behind the wheel... and thoughts --- any do-s or don't-s ?

Just thought I'd ask since y'all were so helpful with the 30amp -50amp question. Thanks in advance.

[Jack R]

Webetraveling

Just posted this AM tips for driving your MoHo go to this thread:

Driving tips for us all

The are 5 or 6 good tips on the site for the video you will load.

jack

[1ciderdog]

In 1982 my first motorhome was a 27 foot Vogue and it seemed huge. So my suggestions are:
1. Hold down the speed and stay in the slow lane until you get real comfortable with how it handles. Go slow down hills.
2. Allow a lot of space between you and vehicles in front of you - it won't stop on a dime.
3. Swing wide at corners because you'll be "curbing" the rear tires if/when you turn to close. Or taking out a signal post.
4. Watch the back end when you turn as it will seem to take a long sweep out behind you.
5. Be careful at gas stations - you'll drag the back bumper on some and you need to be aware some of the older stations may not have the height clearance you.
6. Take it easy and enjoy the travel - plan ahead - and add rest stops just to take a break if on a long trip.
7. Be friendly with neighbors at camp grounds - a great source of information about camping, repairs, problem solving, where to stay next, etc.
I do hope you enjoy your motorhome and travels.
Bob

[Tha_Rooster]

Congrats my first mh was 34 ft my advise is watch your front,middle ,and your rear swinging around can hit that fence post no damage killed my pride with everyone watching I have seen a few Rv bay doors that have hit gas pumps driving on the road nothing to it

[4Knights]

Congrats! it's not hard to drive at all, just different, not a race car so slow down, brake sooner accelerate slower and by all means use your turn signals!
Happy trails
Ron & Wendy

[wildtoad]

Going forward is a breeze. Take a little wider right turns, get used to using the mirrors. Backing up can be a bit tricky at first but you'll get used to it and it is nice to have a helper getting you into a backin camp site. Give yourself a few extra feet when passing someone before you pull in. A backup camera helps a lot. And lastly, it's never to soon to apply the breaks.

[garym114]

Before you start off adjust the mirrors so you can see the lanes on each side without bobbing your head back and forth.

[Midniteoyl]

Not really hard at all.. if you've ever driven with a trailer, it'll be a breeze. Backing up's even easier.

Oh, and if you have a drivers door, make SURE its closed and LOCKED! Mine flew open once on its maiden voyage while passing, and being passed by, semi's

[GaryKD]

Hi Webetravelin,
Congrats on your purchase. Welcome to RV land. I have only one suggestion for turning. You will need 2 assistants (no not to turn, hang in there with me on this). Get some of those small round Velcro fastener dots. Get all set up to drive, seat position, mirror, etc. Have one assistant stand with their feet next to the center of the rear tires. Have the second assistant with the Velcro dots, ready at the outside mirror. Have the 2nd assistant place a dot on the convex mirror (the one that is curved) right where the feet of assistant number one is. The dot should cover their feet when you are looking in the mirror. You will need to guide assistant number 2 on where to place the dot. Do the same for the other mirror.

Now you'll know where your rear tires (coach pivot point) is when turning or backing. It also helps to know where those who like to just hang near your rear bumper instead of passing you on the road are. When I need help positioning the coach, I tell my grandson to stand in a spot next to where I want the rear wheel to be. I just back up until the dot is across from his feet.

[David49]

Speaking of mirrors, the most challenging part for me was getting used to using both the flat mirrors AND the smaller convex mirrors. I discovered that the convex mirrors really help me to know my position in my lane........and to see that car right beside us in the adjacent lane.

[4Knights]

I'm doing the dot thing as soon as the snow quits. Thanks
Ron

[GaryKD]

Hi David49,
You are right on that post. The flat mirrors provide interesting information. The convex mirrors are my friends for life.

[ZephyrKnight]

All great advice. My reminder: 32' is the start of a "noticeable" rear end movement on turns...especially important at the gas pumps!!! When you turn right, your rear end "sweeps" left...and visa-versa. Knowing and understanding this is key especially when positioning yourself at the gas pumps. Too far to the left when pulling in, if you are exiting to the right, will cause you to have to pass the entire pump island PRIOR to making the right turn. (obviously the opposite is true as well) Plan BOTH entering and exiting; drive ahead; use your mirrors and backup camera TOGETHER. Double-check everything - and there is no shame in a "spotter" when in doubt. Have Fun - Be Safe.

Welcome to the wonderful world of RVing!



Happy Trails

[WheelingIt]

It's a breeze. Both hubby and I drive our 40' home with toad and it just takes a little practice. Top 2 things are learning right turns (drive forward until the curb is level with your seat before you start turning) and backing up (always use a partner with clear signals). Once you've done it a few times you'll be pros. Enjoy!!! Nina