Community Forums

98Tioga · 07-09-2015, 07:43 PM

Hi, I have a 1998 Tioga on a Ford E350 V10 chassis.

I have been reading the forum for some time and decided to join.

This is my first motorhome and I have owned it for only a few months. So far I have replaced the rotors, calipers and brake pads on the front and also replaced the rear drums and brake shoes on the back. Also replaced the tires, they looked new and I was told they were new but in fact they were very old and rotten and one of them blew out which in turn took out a rear brake line. This was on the first day of driving the RV after purchasing it from a dealer. $1600 later and back on the road but still 900 plus miles from home. So much for dealers.

I have also installed adjustable camber/caster bushings and new shocks. Driving it home after purchasing it was a nightmare, white knuckles all the way. The best part of driving it home was having a place to stay right there

I didn't have to replace all these things, I did it for safety reasons and peace of mind. I also replaced the u-joints and center carrier bearing on the drive shaft along with a new pinion seal. I have also repaired and serviced the generator.

My RV needs a lot of work but I didn't pay much for it. I see it as a long term hobby with rewards.

I studied and worked as a mechanic many years ago and I have driven Semi's for a living. I have also written computer software for various operating systems. I have a ham radio license and also a commercial radio operators license. I have also worked as a Police Officer, both patrol and as an investigator. Also as a crime scene photographer. I enjoy photography, surf fishing and camping. I also like to study things that are unusual, primarily focusing on statistics.

I am 52 years old and married.

Ted Lambert · 07-09-2015, 07:52 PM

Great to have you here. You sound not at all like the truck drivers I know.
I'm sure your going to enjoy the site. Lots of good people here.

98Tioga · 07-09-2015, 08:47 PM

Thank you for the welcome.

I noticed as an RV driver how most truckers were courteous and actually slowed down when passing the RV on interstates but some blew past us like we weren't even there. That and we had a strong cross wind at the time. That was day 2 of driving the rv.

It was like driving a boat but thanks to all the technical posts on this forum it is getting much better now.

I drove trucks because I was tired of sitting in an office working on computers

Bruce C · 07-10-2015, 03:20 AM

the_vfox · 07-10-2015, 03:47 AM

Welcome, glad you joined us.

Lloyd in S.C. · 07-10-2015, 04:32 AM

WELCOME! And wow, what an interesting resume! I have been in the same business for 44 years. I wish I had moved around a bit more, but I became really good at what I do, 44 years experience is hard to match. Two more to go and I think I will really do whatever I feel like.

Sounds like you already are getting that rig in solid shape, great job.

L.

MSHappyCampers · 07-10-2015, 07:13 AM

Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined us!

Congrats on the new rig! Keep her between the ditches!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

hal1phx · 07-10-2015, 08:19 AM

Enjoy the adventure !!!

Medico · 07-10-2015, 08:28 AM

Welcome, glad to meet you!

denlock · 07-10-2015, 09:59 AM

98Tioga · 07-10-2015, 10:26 AM

Thanks for the welcome.

On our first trip out, to a state park, primarily for testing purposes, I noticed how friendly and helpful other Rv's were, that was nice. There is a good feeling of comradery.

98Tioga · 07-10-2015, 10:42 AM

One of the things I found was I don't like sleeping in the back, to small, I need more space. So I am setting up the bunk over the cab as a 'man cave' While my wife sleeps in the back.

Installing a small tv, dvd, cd player combo and some radio gear along with headphones in the man cave.

Jim T. · 07-10-2015, 10:56 AM

Congratulations on your "new" rig. One thing for sure, with a 17 year old rig, you'll find that you can make a lot of improvements. So, get 'er dun, make 'er yours, have fun & enjoy.

Jim & Shirley & Abbie (Scottie)
2013 Newmar Canyon Star 3911
2005 Dodge Grand Caravan