Community Forums

SSGDave762 · 02-06-2025, 07:34 PM

Planning on using the RV to move from Phoenix sometime between now and July, less stress on the family, esp. pets in enclosed spaces. We had it professionally serviced at purchase, but being a 1st timer, and a military vet, (Murphy's law!!) I'm going to be keeping an eye on as much as I can, so we're not stranded. Tires good, got 2 yrs of 7 remaining, no cracks. electrical seems in good shape, shower, (GRRR!) is far too short, but got an outdoor shower shelter, and will reinforce windbreak with a popup and tarps while camping. I'm hearing about a lot of vandalism, esp. catalytic converter thefts while dining (Thermal blanket? has to be pro's!) as well as simple robberies and burglaries. Studied up and made sure to get a book on our RV, but experience is always good-wife thinks it's a 20 hr. trip, I'm thinking 24-30 from Phoenix to Gillette without burning up the breaks on downhill stretches towing a GMC Canyon. Any advice/insight would be welcome for planning!

SSGDave762 · 02-06-2025, 07:46 PM

We got lucky, BUT even though it SAYS it can sleep 8, i'd have to say they better be mostly kids!

JaytheDJ · 02-07-2025, 03:27 AM

Welcome to the Forum from a fellow Redhawk owner!
I've been all across this country in the past few years of ownership with no issues with CC theft, I guess it depends on where you are staying. And yes, it's definitely going to take longer to reach your destination than the GPS/Map says it will. Slow down and enjoy the ride!

**hamm2018** · 02-07-2025, 05:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SSGDave762

Planning on using the RV to move from Phoenix sometime between now and July, less stress on the family, esp. pets in enclosed spaces. We had it professionally serviced at purchase, but being a 1st timer, and a military vet, (Murphy's law!!) I'm going to be keeping an eye on as much as I can, so we're not stranded. Tires good, got 2 yrs of 7 remaining, no cracks. electrical seems in good shape, shower, (GRRR!) is far too short, but got an outdoor shower shelter, and will reinforce windbreak with a popup and tarps while camping. I'm hearing about a lot of vandalism, esp. catalytic converter thefts while dining (Thermal blanket? has to be pro's!) as well as simple robberies and burglaries. Studied up and made sure to get a book on our RV, but experience is always good-wife thinks it's a 20 hr. trip, I'm thinking 24-30 from Phoenix to Gillette without burning up the breaks on downhill stretches towing a GMC Canyon. Any advice/insight would be welcome for planning!

Welcome to the group.
For travel plans, try using RV Trip Wizard. It does a great job of routing for us.
Also, get a RV dedicated GPS device. We use a RV 770 Garmin for our daily routes/travel.

kenandterry · 02-07-2025, 06:27 AM

Welcome aboard.
The biggest tip for travel planning that I can offer……
Regardless what the posted speed might be, calculate your trip based on covering 50 ACTUAL miles per hour. You can’t/won’t cover distances at the speeds you would by car. There will be longer stops for fuel as you position your way to the pumps. There will be other scenic stops that take longer, just because you’re a bigger vehicle. Stopping for shopping takes longer. Etc. etc. etc.

Take your time…..enjoy the trip. It’s not a race.

Docsouce · 02-07-2025, 07:19 AM

Welcome! When fueling up, watch out for the tail swing when leaving the pumps. Also, I see you will be towing an auto. Remember you can't back up. If you pull into a parking lot be sure you can complete the swing otherwise you'll have to disconnect the towed.

SSGDave762 · 02-07-2025, 07:53 AM

Copy on All and appreciate the advice. Mil vet, experience with 14 wheeler and trailer, getting the mount onto the Canyon is another question i forgot. If i can get the bumper off (without damage!), i should be able to install but im going to take my time and get it Correct. Copy on Pull-Thru DEFINITELY the plan, need to train better half as she may certainly be driving, possibly sooner than i will. Got the attachable brake lights, hazard cones, still got the sinking feeling im forgetting something...lol. Anyone going to be near Avondale, if you get the chance, feel free to stop by and I'll write down any info. PMCS will be done Often with precious cargo! Once we're done, anyone near Gillette, come visit, we PLAN on doing steaks (Gas grill), and i'm an instructor, so i'll be happy for company learning the ranges there-Handgun/Shotgun/Rifle, and if i can talk them into it, house/room clearing. Personal Protection in the Home is that class. Also each reloading. (dont ask how much it cost to become a certified instructor thru NRA!!) Looking forward to seeing anyone here, Always looking for safety tips!

SSGDave762 · 02-07-2025, 07:56 AM

Also-have a milspec 5 gal gas can with a donkey D (flexible aluminum spout) and a 5 gal plastic can-hope i dont have to dip into or run back and forth to the pump-lol. 3 fire extinguishers, EMT bag with sutures and training to use it. 8 people in the last 10 yrs alive because i know what to do. Plan, so hoping for the best doesnt get involved.

SSGDave762 · 02-07-2025, 07:57 AM

Now, if Only i can convince my Sweetheart on that concern!

d23haynes57 · 02-07-2025, 08:41 AM

What is that rated to tow? That is a long overhang and it is likely the rear frame is extended with bolt on extensions. The Canyon may be too much.
Class C's have tires that are right at the limits. How many miles on them? In 97 I purchased a 92 Tioga Arrow with 34K miles on it. Had a blowout 2nd day I drove it. On way down to Florida all 4 rear tires started to separate and bubble on the sidewalls. Weigh the rig after loading for travel. Looking at the picture it may need springs. Lifting the rear will also raise the front. Check ride height to spec front and rear.
These things also eat rear axles. Check/change the gear oil. Use Synthetic. Pay attention to any leaks at the wheel ends.

Good luck and enjoy the trip.

Sam 3 · 02-07-2025, 11:02 AM

I always get out and watch DH as he pulls away from gas pump. Keep the drivers window down. Simple but it works for us.

Flyer15015 · 02-07-2025, 11:28 AM

Sarge,
Welcome aboard.
Pay close attention to Dennis's post #10 about your hitch. To tow that much, I would really like to see pictures of how it's mounted to the frame.

Mine, ON A CLASS "A" was a really Micky Mouse set up with the hitch hanging from a pair of skinny angle iron frame extensions, so in order to tow an 8K# enclosed car hauler, I had to add a couple of struts as shown.

In so far as security out on the road, a Byrna SD is my go to.

Mike in Colorado

MSHappyCampers · 02-07-2025, 11:48 AM

Hi ! Welcome to IRV2! We’re sure glad you joined the gang here!

Congrats on the new rig! Have fun and keep her between the ditches!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

SSGDave762 · 02-07-2025, 08:17 PM

rated 10k, got a good look (sorry no pics) and it seemed no funny stuff underneath-I crawled under to get a GOOD look! (was looking for indications of leaks, cracks, etc-PMCS) will be Flat towing, dropping the drive line on the Canyon-practiced that, it's simple-not as easy as 4wd would have been, but at the time was replacing a "Just Paid Off" dodge 1500 some Klown plowed into because "He was Texting" but ALSO HIGH AS A KITE!! the weed smell was Easily identified -35min after the accident, the PD smelled it! He hit so hard, it tore the passenger side front tire and part of his suspension off. GRR!! we're 2nd house off 99th ave, and it's happened 3 times-yet Another reason to GTFO of here! Did the research, which is why flat towing. explorer is heavier than canyon, so canyon gets towed. Also looked into weight, and the RV won't be loaded except with clothes and food. TY all for info on the axles-WILL be checking that! worked security at Encore sun city, met a lot of nice folks, if any are here, remember the Big ex Drill Sgt, and you'll know me lol. 6'4", 250lbs.