RV FAQs in Loveland & Wheat Ridge, Colorado

Your budget is of vital importance in determining what type of RV will be best for your family. This is a big investment so take the time and make a smart decision.

We recommend having serious family discussions about the various RV types and purchasing options right from the start. Renting RVs can be expensive – why rent when you can apply the rental cost to a purchase and lower that monthly payment? If you do decide to rent, it is a good way to experience the pros and cons of different types to find out your deal-breakers before you buy. Keep a diary of your rental excursions where you make lists of the amenities you like and the deal-breakers as you experience them.

Here are some things to keep in mind when considering purchasing a trailer:

• Choose a type of RV first, then the siz
• Be sure to ask about special driver’s licensing requirements which might put some models or sizes out of reach.
• After you start to narrow it down, call your insurance agent and get full-coverage quotes on the various models you are considering.
• Compare prices of the finalists wherever you can find comparable models that have recently sold to determine the fair market price as is.
• Be sure you buy from a respected dealer by checking the local BBB for complaints and note if they were resolved or left unresolved. Complaints are fine if the issues have been resolved.

There are many great brands of RVs; however, these companies all have excellent products and responsive customer service:

• Keystone RV Company
• Heartland RV
• Starcraft RV
• Coachmen RV

The main advantage to buying new is you get the newest features in a brand new RV with close to zero miles on it. It is also an advantage to buy from a dealer close to your home when using your warranty for routine inspections and maintenance. Many families seriously consider buying a used RV because of the obvious price advantage. New RVs, like cars, start depreciating the moment you drive them off the lot. If you are patient and look long and hard, you will eventually find a good price on a high-end, late-model RV. If you decide to buy used, don’t be in a hurry. Shop at the end of the season and through the winter, not in spring. If you are a first timer, take someone experienced with you or have an RV you are seriously considering professionally inspected so you don’t accidentally buy someone else’s problem. The NADA Guide will help you determine a fair price. Some RVs are “certified” to be pre-inspected at the sales lot and are usually a safe bet because the lot will guarantee the items on the checklist for a specific length of time.

RV ownership has never been higher in the US. A recent 2011 University of Michigan study by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association estimates that over 8.9 million households own an RV today. The average buyer is a married 48 year old homeowner with an income above $60K annually who likes to travel on average three weeks a year.

A big factor of the upswing in RV ownership is the bulk of baby boomers who are now over 60 and have been in this demographic for a decade. Secondly, typical buyers range in age from 35 to 75, so the market is huge and seems to be growing downward in age. Right now the 34-54 age group owns more RVs than any other 20 year age span. In that group, 11% of households own an RV, putting that age group above the 55 and over group in RV ownership per households.

Traveling around the U.S. by RV is the only way to be able to fully experience all that our country has to offer. Go where you want when you want in your own vehicle that includes traveling living quarters. Relax and enjoy yourself with no rushing around, no stress, no keeping track of tickets, luggage, time – any of that.

Plane and rail travel do not afford the same luxury as RV travel and RV travel is more affordable compared to other modes of travel. There are estimates that traveling in a trailer can cost families 59% less than other modes of travel. Traveling by RV is comfortable; you take your kitchen, sleeping quarters, and bathroom with you without waiting in lines, making advance reservations, long airport waits and body scans, and luggage restrictions. RV travel keeps the family together and alone, improving family time and encouraging communication.

You can stop anywhere to enjoy the scenery you run across: national parks, regional attractions and annual festivals, local landmarks and roadside attractions, mountains, beaches, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, tourist attractions, small towns, etc. RV travelers can also take their “toys” anywhere they want to enjoy their selected adventure: snowmobiling, canoeing, ATV hot spots, motorcycling, jet-skiing, and more.

Pets can accompany RVers on their trips and Kitty or Fido will not need to be left with family or friends. You can use your RV to arrive early at a sporting event and tailgate, or use it for local special interest groups like dog shows or horsing events.

The trend is toward shorter trips on weekends with less preparation time during the week. It’s a “Let’s Go!” trend. With 16,000 + private and publicly owned campgrounds nationwide, RVers are not at a loss for destinations and they are getting out there more and more. The trends in modern RVs include more lightweight towables and more fuel efficient motorhomes, making it easier for RV owners to enjoy traveling more often. Green options like solar panels are now being offered as well.

The number one factor towards motorhomes is that passengers can ride comfortably in the living compartment while on the road. In a towable, passengers must ride in the towing vehicle. Although rules prohibit moving about the motorhome while it is in motion, the bathroom is very close by and many families use it instead of stopping. Generally, these vehicles are pretty easy to set up with self-leveling features. The other huge advantage to a motorhome is that you can usually tow another vehicle. However, a con to motorhome ownership can occur when your engine unexpectedly needs to be repaired in a shop and you are stuck for extra accommodations you may not have counted on. Also, motorhomes are generally more expensive, yet you can expect less living space and smaller kitchens as well as depreciating faster. Travel trailers have their own set of advantages so consider carefully. Depending on the size, they generally have more living space for the money and hold their value better and longer. You have a place to sleep if your towing vehicle needs to be repaired in a shop. You also don’t need to tow a vehicle to have something to drive locally. However, trailers have definite cons. They are more difficult for beginners to set up and level. Usually, lenders will only finance the trailer so you will have to own something appropriate to tow it with already. In closing, the best advice I can offer is to read everything you can find. Join forums and chat rooms where travelers hang out and ask questions. Talk to people who have owned both because folks that have only owned one kind will be biased.

Class A motorhomes, also known as a coach or motor coach, look like a bus and are built on a truck chassis that has been totally stripped. The driving compartment is part of the interior of the inside of the RV.

There are definite advantages to owning one of these vehicles including:

• They are great on long highways trips.
• They are usually fairly large and roomy and are usually the first choice for full-timers and have a lot of storage.
• There is an added element of safety knowing you never have to get out of the RV because the living and driving compartments are connected.
• The raised driver seat gives a great view of the road and traffic.
• They can tow other vehicles with ease.

The negatives of owning a Class A motorhome include:

• They are the most expensive choice out there.
They also can be very tough to turn on city streets requiring you to use alternate routes through large cities and a rental car for in-city driving if you aren’t towing your own.
• They are very tall and clearance can be an issue, especially the right side – a drawback of the raised driver’s seat.
• The Class A’s seem to have more structural problems.
• They are very large and storage when not in use can be a problem.

Class B motorhomes are built from minivans and are the smallest of the three classes. These are also called conversion vans or camper vans when they began their life as a conventional van and were converted sometime during their lifetime. These are especially good for weekend trips close to home. Living space is much smaller, although they usually have a raised roof for headroom.

On the upside, Class B motorhomes have the following positives:

• They are the least expensive RV type to own and operate.
• They are easy to drive around town and can be used as a primary vehicle if necessary.
• The driving and living areas are connected so you have that element of safety at rest stops. They can tow a small car or trailer.
• They fit in a normal residential driveway making them easy to store when not being used.
• The small size gives you many more options for campgrounds and parking.

On the downside:

• They are usually small and have limited space.
• Most owners would say they are good for short trips only.
• Any more than four people traveling at once makes for very tight quarters.

Class C motorhomes (mini-motorhomes) are RVs that are built on a truck chassis which includes the cab. The driving compartment and living area are connected giving that extra layer of safety. Their size can usually be compared to rental moving trucks and they are capable of towing a vehicle. These RVs seem to hold heat and AC better because of the reduced windshield size and customary curtain separation between driving and living areas. The other recognizable feature of Class C’s is the sleeping area over the driving compartment.

Regardless of the obvious differences, Class C’s can be just as luxurious and cost just as much as the best Class A’s.

The downsides include:

• Difficulty driving around town or in tight spaces requiring a rental for in-city driving.
• Most of the Class C’s are not large enough for full-timers, although huge models built on semi-truck chassis’ do exist.
• They require a large storage area when not in use.

Fifth Wheels are totally separate, self-contained living units that need to be hooked up to a vehicle and towed. The other main feature is the hitch is directly over the towing vehicle’s axle causing a small portion of the weight to be borne by the truck’s axle.

Pros to fifth wheel ownership:

• The vehicle used to tow a fifth wheel usually doubles as a family vehicle in the off-season.
• If the truck requires repair or towing, you can disconnect the fifth wheel while your truck is being repaired.
• They are safer to drive than travel trailers and much easier to back up.
• They have a lot of storage space because there is no driving compartment.
• A large-size truck is usually required to tow fifth wheels making them easier to drive, but requires more skill.

The downsides to owning a fifth wheel include:

• Being unable to tow vehicles behind fifth wheels.
• Being difficult to maneuver.
• Driving and living compartments are separate.
• Clearance can sometimes be an issue, and in-city driving can be challenging.
• Large storage space for the off-season is usually needed.

Travel Trailers are similar to fifth wheels except they are towed in tandem from a ball hitch mounted on the bumper of the towing vehicle. Other names for travel trailers are conventional trailers, travel trailer coach, tagalong, and bumper pull. Small travel trailers are one of the most popular RVs in use today.

• Expandable travel trailers that open up additional space either vertically or horizontally.
• Teardrop trailers that include tear-shaped trailers (the point is in the back), and all very small trailers.
• Park models are designed to be used in park facilities as there are no holding tanks or dual-voltage appliances. Park facilities are required to hook up to electricity, water, and sewer lines making park models especially suited for permanent or long-term placement and more resembles a small mobile home than an RV. The best features include being very large and open for their size and having the tow vehicle doubling as local transportation. Being lower in height, there is usually no clearance issue unless traveling with large items on top.

The drawbacks to travel trailers can include:

• Being unstable on the road.
• Requiring a good deal of skill to haul around.
• Having less storage than a fifth wheel because there is no raised section.
• Requiring a full-sized pickup or truck to haul for larger trailers.
• Being unable to tow anything behind it.
• The driving compartment and living areas are separate and not accessible while traveling.

Toy Haulers are a sub-category of both fifth wheels and travel trailers. They are designed to haul toys: ATVs, motorcycles, dune buggies, etc. Toy haulers always have a back gate – usually the entire back wall folds down to double as a ramp. They can have a dedicated garage only or an added living compartment with fold-away furniture. They sometimes have a third axle to support the toys.

Pop-up folding trailers are small and lightweight with living compartments that fold or collapses into a much smaller size for ease of travel and storage. This makes it possible for most all families to tow behind a midsize family car, SUV, or smaller pickup trucks. Very small folding trailers can be hauled behind a large motorcycle. Folding trailers are also called pop-up trailers, tent trailers, camper trailers, or folding camperas.

Pop-up folding trailers are small and lightweight with living compartments that fold or collapses into a much smaller size for ease of travel and storage. This makes it possible for most all families to tow behind a midsize family car, SUV, or smaller pickup trucks. Very small folding trailers can be hauled behind a large motorcycle. Folding trailers are also called pop-up trailers, tent trailers, camper trailers, or folding camperas.

Pros to owning a folding trailer:

• Their low cost and the fact that they are very light and easy to tow.
• The towing vehicle can be used as local transportation and is most likely a primary family vehicle during the off-season.
• There are no clearance issues and no special storage requirements are needed.
• You will have a huge choice of campgrounds because of the small size and easy maneuverability.

Cons to folding trailer ownership:

• They are very short on space so they are only recommended for short trips.
• There is no living area available till you reach your destination and open it up.
• These units have very little insulation so are not recommended for cold weather trips.

Truck campers are a living space attached to and fastened down tightly to the frame of a pickup truck. Some RV campers can slide off the truck easily when you reach your destination, so you will have a vehicle to drive locally.

There are many benefits to truck campers including:

• Being a small RV, they are very inexpensive to own and operate.
• They are very easy to “install” and rarely require expensive modifications to the truck.
• Both in-city and highway driving is easy with truck campers.
• No special storage is needed when not in use as they can fit between the house and the property line easily, or just park it in your driveway.
• You will also have a large selection of campgrounds and campsites.

The cons include:

• You can experience poor road handling when attached to a truck with light suspension and their size makes them good for short trips only.
• The driving and living compartments are separate.

Structurally, the most popular requests are awnings and (multiple) tipouts. Skylights are next, with generators for backup electricity close behind. For fifth wheels and travel trailers, tie-downs and trailer supports are common requests. For motorhomes, tow-behinds are very popular. In the last 10 years, the demand for dedicated office space in RVs has soared and is the current number one “new feature” request.

These days, the larger motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers have usually incorporated a mini-office area/station to hook up your computer equipment and leave it out. All you will need to make it a complete office is a rolling chair.

Certainly the most important feature in a kitchen is available counter space. Smart manufacturers have found ways to add counter-space without cutting into the living area by adding counter extensions that fold down and away when you’re done preparing food.

Next on the list would be food storage space. Are the cabinet shelves adjustable? Do they pull-out and/or swivel? Both of those options make it much easier to get items in and out when you have the cabinets stocked full. Spice racks on the reverse side of the door are always a great feature. Are the cabinets easy to remove for cleaning?

Seasoned RV owners usually opt for vinyl or linoleum flooring in the entry and kitchen because carpet does not hold up well in those areas. Leave carpet to the bedroom and living room areas.

Families always want and appreciate larger windows, especially in the A, B, and C motorhome classes that allow passengers to ride in the living area while on the road. Skylights are a close second.

Although not as apparent until after you have used your RV a few times, the configuration of the seating to the television will be important to your family. Watching TV may not seem important at first but after a few trips, you’ll be renting movies to watch after you settle in for the night – and you’ll be fighting for the best seats. Since most RV TVs are in stationary cabinets, the things to look for are wall mounts or swivel stands for a flexible mount.

For families with children, privacy is the chief concern. Look for real doors with locks on the bedroom and bathroom. Another feature that is appreciated but often not thought of till later is being able to walk on both sides of the bed so you can avoid crawling over your spouse on a middle of the night bathroom trip. It also makes it easy to make up the bed every day.

The most coveted feature, if you get a large enough RV, is ample closet space in the bedroom. Just like kitchen cabinets, look for flexibility such as adjustable shelves, bins, and clothing rods. If you find a model that you like without the closet luxuries, you can always add after-market adjustable shelving. A large mirror (usually on the bedroom closet door) is also a great feature in an RV because they help reflect light, but again, that can be added later.

Privacy is the chief concern with bathrooms and over the years, most manufacturers have moved the door to the bathroom from the bedroom to the hall. That said there are two schools of thought in regards to bathrooms. Some folks like the toilet and sink in the same room with the shower/tub. Others like them separated so they can be used at the same time. Of course you will favor a real door with a lock as well.

What kinds of Parks and Facilities are Available to RV Owners when Traveling?

A park that allows overnight camping in an outdoor sleeping area is called a campground. This could be anything from a fully developed RV park or it may be accessible only by hikers. RV parks are usually privately owned and operated to serve short-stay or seasonal guests.

An RV resort park is also usually privately owned and is just like an RV park but allows recreational vehicles. An RV “resort” usually (but not always) means the owner has spent considerable money on extra amenities for guests. Extended stay sites normally have restrictions on older RVs and do not allow short-stays, say less than a month.

Federal parks sometimes offer reduced rates for those willing to work off part of their stay. These are run by the National Forest Service (NFS) or the National Park Service (NPS). There’s always a lot of work to be done on federal park land so this is a good option for many! State parks have a variety of recreational opportunities including visitor centers at some of the most beautiful and scenic destinations in the U.S. This short list is but a sample of places to park your RV when traveling around the U.S.

Sometimes. Ask if there is WiFi available in the park then ask if it covers the whole park or your specific site. Be sure to ask about the cost before logging in, and you may need to get the network name and key. If you are going to arrive at the park after hours, you will want to get this information when you make reservations so you can get online before they open in the morning.

There are other options. Many smartphones allow you to add a “hotspot” to your monthly service, although cell phone access is notoriously slow. You can purchase satellite service and have service everywhere, or you could get a nationwide access plan from a company like Boingo.

Of course, the more amenities, the more the cost. For primitive locations the cost usually starts around $3-4 a day and could go as high as $10 per day. These sites will have no hookups and instead will have a central bathroom, shower, and an RV dump station.

“Water and electric” (15-50 amps) parks start around $10 a day and go as high as $30 a day in popular parks or those close to popular destinations.

Full hookups (water, electric, and sewer) also start around $10 a day but could be as high as $50 a day or more.

Yes. Walmarts all across the U.S. allow free overnight parking at the back of their parking lots. Here is a PDF with the Walmarts that do not allow parking. When it opens, push “control F” and enter the zip code you are traveling through to be sure you don’t park at one that doesn’t allow it. Additionally, be aware that some cities, towns, and municipalities do not allow RV parking anywhere except licensed RV parks.

There are always rest areas which are found on all major interstates starting a few miles outside of any major city. Some truck stops allow overnight RV parking; ask management when you pull in.

The good news is that you can control the cost of your fuel consumption by carefully considering these factors: weight of the RV, engine size of the motorhome or towing vehicle, the type of fuel you use, the gear ratios, wind resistance, and your driving habits.

Secondly, consider the topography on the trail to your destination – is it flat, uphill, around mountainsides? The best way to find out what fuel consumption will cost in the models you are considering is to join an Internet forum and start asking members what they pay. Of course, if you have a big truck and a small travel trailer, you won’t notice much difference and it goes up from there.

That said, you can expect to get anywhere from 6-13 miles per gallon (mpg) for the large motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels, and maybe a bit better mileage in a Class C, say up to 15 mpg tops. Class B RVs usually get the same or slightly less mpg’s than the van they are built on, depending again on amenities added, total weight, etc.

The Internet is full of RV checklists of all types! Just enter “RV Checklist” into your favorite search engine and you will get over 3 million results. You can narrow it down by adding the type of checklist you are hoping to find: Checklist for on-board supplies, RV kitchen checklist, RV inspection checklist, RV or travel trailer road test checklist, inventory checklist for your first trip, checklist of common RV essentials, RV pet checklist, and the list goes on and on. We have complied a few lists of our own here.

GVW includes curb weight, cargo weight, and person’s weight.

GVWR is also called maximum loaded trailer weight. GVW or GTW weights should never exceed this number. GVWR is applied to trailers as well as vehicles, but you may see this rating referred to as the maximum loaded trailer weight.

GTW includes all GAWs and tongue weight (also king pin) as well as the weight of all jacks in use

GCW is the GVW of the towing vehicle and the GVW of the towed vehicle.

GCWR is the GVW of the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle should never exceed this number.

GAW is the actual scale weight. It is best to have an evenly distributed load so there is not too much weight on one axle. Tire ratings are taken into account as well. Divide the GAW by the number of tires on an axle to get the weight being borne by each tire.

GAWR is the GAW of a single axle should never exceed this number.

Tongue weight (or load) is the measurement of the weight on the hitch ball from the trailer. It is best not to exceed 15% of the GTW, and 10% is ideal.

King pin weight (or pin weight) is the measurement of the weight on the fifth wheel hitch from the fifth wheel. It is best not to exceed 25% of the GVW, and 15% is ideal.

Curb weight includes the vehicle weight with standard equipment only, with full fuel tanks, full fresh water tanks, full propane tanks, and all equipment fluids topped off. Some variations include optional equipment and the driver.

Dry weight is the weight of the vehicle with standard equipment and onboard equipment fluids, sans the optional equipment, fuel, water, propane, and cargo. Sometimes includes RV batteries.

UVW includes factory vehicle weight, full fuel tank, and onboard equipment fluids.

Cargo weight is the weight of your personal belongs on the vehicle (cargo), optional equipment weight, then add either your tongue weight or king pin weight.

Payload is the cargo weight and the person’s weight. This is a rating weight. Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR with standard equipment and the maximum weight allowed.

When you purchase an RV motorhome or any of our recreation vehicles, you’re going to get industry leading support. You’ll get a complete and comprehensive walkthrough so you’ll know every button and function of the RV before it’s delivered to your home. It’s important that you voice any questions and concerns you have during the walkthrough, but Cousins RV personnel are always available to answer your questions by phone. We believe in our products so much that we offer a 90-day service guarantee on any RV sold by us. Cousins RV also started the I’m Trailer Man Camping Club to provide real life hands on, mock ups for our 1st time buyers and anyone in who is interested in learning more about their specific RV or Motorhome along with having a good time with other RVers.

It’s easy to get lost in the sea of abbreviations connected to recreational vehicles. The abbreviations are defined by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association and are standard for all units including your Starcraft RV. Here are some common examples:

• UVW: The unloaded vehicle weight is the weight of the vehicle as it rolled off the factory line. It includes the full fuel tanks, full generator fuel tanks, and engine oil and coolants if applicable. It does not include any additional cargo, LP Gas, fresh water, or any accessories installed by the dealer.
• NCC: The net carrying capacity is the total weight of all belongings including those not included in the UVW and anything else that can be put into the vehicle
• GVWR: The gross vehicle weight rating is the weight limit of the RV and is equal to or greater than the total sum of the UVW plus NCC.
• GCWR: The gross combined weight rating is simply the value of the total allowable loaded weight of a tow vehicle and a towed vehicle or trailer.

Yes, the serial number for your RV camper or other unit is found on the bill of sale, insurance paperwork, registration, and title. If you look carefully, you’ll also find it stamped on the vehicle’s frame, but exactly where that is depends on the manufacturer, model, and year.

No. Odds are your Forest RV or other brand already has one and it won’t work with more than one on a single circuit.

The reasons why we are considered a leading and trusted provider of quality new and used RVs are too many to mention, but the biggest contributor is that we stand behind every vehicle we sell and provide unparalleled service to every customer.

RV Fourseasons has a knowledgeable parts department that will walk you through the process of choosing the necessary RV parts and accessories for your first RV buy. They all have the experience and know-how to tailor your needs to the trip you are planning. Some of the RV basics include:

• water pressure regulator
• sewer hose
• levels
• foldable garbage cans
• receiver hitch locks for travel trailers
• tongue jack cone for pull trailers
• slide out slickers
• teflon disc for fifth wheel trailers
• toilet paper
• solo hitch alignment systems
• toilet chemicals for storing and camping
• awning straps
• wheel chocks
• 30 AMO to 110 or $50 Amp to 30 AMP adaptor
• in-line water filter
• towing mirrors for trailers
• Mazz air vent covers

Parts for small travel trailers and other models usually arrive within 1-3 business days. Because we have 12 satellite warehouses across the nation, we usually can have most items shipped within 2 days.

We often have over 16,000 parts and accessories in stock or can order those hard to find parts that are not featured in our catalog. Let us know what kind of Keystone RV part you’re looking for and we’ll find it in our system of more than 220,000 parts for you. We can also order manufacturer parts such as Jayco, Forest River, etc.

Of course, Cousins RV will price match most items including toy hauler trailers parts, but call us with the item of the lower advertised price.

Despite being an RV dealer with so many brands and models to choose from, our parts department knows each and every machine inside and out. If you have any questions, give them a call and they’ll find the answer you need.

Give us a call for current rates for shipping charges and we can have that item at your doorstep in no time.

Yes, the RV Basics web site has a very comprehensive page with several dozen used RV parts and RV salvage yards for motorhomes, travel trailers and fifth wheels.

Without a doubt, the single most important thing to replace on schedule is your carbon monoxide monitor. Carbon monoxide is the number one cause of poisoning deaths in the U.S. year after year. Besides the many simple steps you can take to avoid carbon monoxide from entering your living space, a good, working detector is the best line of defense in keeping you and your family safe. The thing to remember is that when any fuel is burned, it must be properly vented to the outside. This includes gasoline, natural gas, propane, wood, and coal. Improper venting is extremely serious and must be fixed immediately.

There are many great places online to look for your manual, but the best place to start is to contact the manufacturer of your RV, by email or phone, and ask if one for your model is available for download from their website. If not, ask if they can mail one out. They will usually do this for a very small fee.Some manufacturers want you to order their manual through a dealer, so dealers are used to these requests. Another good idea would be to check Ebay. Sometimes Facebook can bring about results if you go to the manufacturer’s page and ask there. If the age of your RV is too old to locate an original manual, there are a number of RV Handbooks for sale.

When Jack Frost comes calling and it’s time to put the RV up for the winter, you want to make sure it is properly winterized. Ideally, the RV is stored inside a building where it isn’t exposed to the frigid winter winds and snow. This can help your paint job last longer. You’ll need to put antifreeze into your water system to keep it from freezing during storage and empty out your propane tanks as well. The last thing you want is to have the cold weather break those tanks and your investment go up in flames. Also, you’ll want to put the RV on blocks to save wear and tear on your tires.

Fastway hitches have become popular recently because fans of RV motorhomes understand the many advantages they have over other hitches. They are, by far, the easiest hitches to use thanks to Fastway e2 Integrated Sway Control. It uses sway control brackets instead of the “add-on” sway bars or cam attachments that were added to chain style hitches. It’s important to understand that without correct weight control distribution, drivers can experience the dreaded highway hop, steering control loss, and tow vehicle sagging. The Fastway e2 acts like a bridge between the tow vehicle and the trailer. It helps them work together by distributing the weight evenly to the axles of the tow vehicle and the trailer.

The answer is simple: preventative maintenance. No one wants to be stuck on the side of the road when they could be enjoying nature’s beauty. By repacking the wheel bearings of your small RV each year, you’re reducing your chances of being stranded on the highways and byways.

We have exclusive Silver and Gold maintenance packages that provide for all the basic maintenance needs for your Heartland travel trailers. Our affordable packages include:0

• Every 12 month or 12,000 mile wheel bearing service
• Refrigerator service annually
• Furnace service annually
• Water heater service annually
• Six month roof and sealant inspection
• Water system check including filling tanks and testing lines, winterize or de-winterize, and general inspection.

That’s easy; check your tire pressure. It’s always a good idea to examine the tire pressure before heading out on a trip and each morning when the tires are at their lowest. Colorado is known for its high altitudes and that, along with summer heat, will increase your tire pressure. It’s important to take that into account when putting air in the tire. If it isn’t hot or high altitude, fill your RV camper tires to their recommended pressure. During hot weather and high altitudes, inflate them a little under the recommended pressure.

The most likely cause of an ammonia smell is that your fridge’s cooling coils are leaking. Immediately turn the fridge off to avoid a fire. If you recently had your compressor replaced and/or the freon recharged, this is sometimes the cause. Reclaimed freon is sometimes used to recharge systems and this can contaminate the system. Always insist on new freon, it costs more but you will never have this problem. The age of your unit is the tipping point in whether to repair or replace. The older the unit, the higher the likelihood that replacment is the right choice. Remember, a new unit always comes with a warranty. First, check your existing warranty to see if you have any coverage. Next, if your RV is fairly new, check the manufacturer’s web site for recalls. You might get lucky and get it repaired for free. If not, you have 3 basic choices: Rebuild the cooling core. Since rebuilding the core is only a short-term solution, this is usually not recommended. Install a new cooling core. This is only recommended if your fridge is fairly new, say just out of warranty, but usually the cost (including parts, labor and sales tax) is so close to a new unit (especially if it is a 2-door unit) that it is best to pay the extra money for the new one. This will cost between $700 and $1,400 plus 3-5 hours of labor, that’s why it is usually a better idea to… Install a new fridge. This is usually recommended if you plan on keeping the RV. New fridges start at around $1,000.

• Tires: We can never state this enough! Besides keeping them at the proper air pressure, rotate and balance your tires regularly. Also, drive your RV-even in the off-season-to avoid “flat spots” on your tires that go thud-thud as you drive down the road.
• Wheel bearings: Same as tires, the wheel bearings must be used regularly or they go bad from sitting in the same spot for too long.
• Water lines: If you store water in your RV, besides winterizing, you will need to put antifreeze in the tank and lines so it won’t freeze and crack your lines.
• Roof: The roof is oftentimes overlooked. You will need to go up there and clean it and while you’re there, inspect it carefully for leaks, bubbles, cracks, anything unusual.
• Fluids: Check your fluids regularly.

Generators need love too! Change the oil regularly, check or change the spark plugs and the air filter and fuel filter. Also, if you are going to leave the RV with gasoline in the tank, add an additive so the gas doesn’t go bad and turn into turpentine on you.

Close all interior ceiling vents before driving anywhere. These vents will be damaged or can even fly off when going 60-70 mph down the road. Make sure all your sway bars and safety chains are hooked up properly. If your trailer falls off while you are driving because your safety chains are not attached properly, you’re going to feel pretty stupid. The next first-timer mistake is forgetting to disconnect power and sewer before driving away. Don’t roll your eyes, we have seen this happen. Sometimes first-timers pull into spots nose-first. This is usually a mistake. Remember – whatever you pull into, you have to back out of. Another common mistake is pulling out too quickly when you leave, and hitting something. Think about it-when you arrive, you carefully, slowly back into your spot. When you pull away the tendency is to go faster. Just remember that and slow down when you leave or you may hit something in front of you.

Yes. Transmissions need to be serviced. There is a lot of extra wear and tear because they are towing something very heavy. The filters need to be changed and the pan that has a magnet to collect metal fragments should be checked. If there are metal fragments in it, that is not good news.

Yes. Windows need to be checked for leaks and cracks. The seals should have no cracks, gaps or irregularities. If there is, you will have leaks; and water/moisture is the enemy of all RVs. Get these fixed as soon as you can.

Of course we do. Our brand new paint booth dwarfs most others in the state at 55' long and 16' x 16'. We can paint anything from an RV motorhome to busses, travel trailers, toy haulers, fifth wheels, horse trailers, and cargo trailers. We have more than 25 years of experience in body work and painting RVs and trailers. We can provide aluminum trailer hail repair after those troublesome thunder storms, fiberglass repair on trailers and motorhomes, as well as collision repair. We provide quality work with a quick turnaround and service almost all makes a models. We even have the ability to color match with DuPont Acquire Digital Paint Color Matching (excludes all Airstream models).

First, check to be sure everyone is okay! Next, notify the authorities so they can come out and get all the necessary information for your insurance claim. Be sure to get the officer’s name and the incident number for your insurance adjustor. Then call your insurance adjustor. It’s crucial to document all the damage to your RV. It’s very important to take photos of the scene before anything gets moved. Take several photos from different angles and distances. This will greatly help your insurance adjuster in processing your claim. Sometimes stories change after the fact, and detailed photos can help prove who caused the accident. After that you will need to deal with getting your coach to a licensed and insured collision repair facility to determine the extent of the damage. Hopefully it is driveable, but if not, you will be glad you thought ahead and have an emergency roadside assistance policy.

Clean and inspect your awnings regularly. When it’s raining, get in the habit of periodically lowering one end a bit to allow water to run off. Water is heavy and the additional weight can damage your awnings. Always close your awnings in winds over 20 mph. Never leave your awning out unattended. Close it up every night. Use the tie-downs to prevent any sudden gusts from damaging your awning or RV. Always remember it is easier to prevent damage than it is to repair it. As a side note, some people are surprised to learn that their policy does not cover awnings, so check with your insurance provider to be sure your policy covers yours. If not, purchase the rider for it.

That sounds like delamination. The skin of your RV is a smooth fiberglass exterior wall with a styrofoam or fiberglass center, and more fiberglass to seal the center. There is adhesive between the layers, which is supposed to make them one bonded unit. This new method, developed in the early 1990s, greatly lowered the cost of building RVs and improved gas mileage with better aerodynamics. Everyone was happy until the drawbacks of the method became apparent later in the decade. Over time, moisture invades the walls and the layers begin to separate causing this wave/bubbling look. Often the first sign you will see is small blisters or bubbles forming on the sides of your coach. This should be repaired by a professional before the problem becomes much worse. The usual repair in the early stages is to remove the damaged section and replace it. If you bought the RV used and you wait till the entire side of the RV needs to be replaced, it will likely cost more to replace it than you paid for the RV, so it’s best to fix this problem early.

While you certainly can paint your RV yourself, it may not be the best idea. Painting an RV can be a long and difficult process. The RV not only has to be cleaned and checked for paint bubbling and other damage, but also at least one coat of primer needs to be applied before you begin the actual painting. The experts at Cousins RV have years of experience behind them as well as all the latest certifications. They guarantee your RV will come out looking amazing. There are many issues that a confident do-it-yourselfer can fix on an RV, but when it comes to the delicate job of painting, it’s best to leave it to the experts.

Look for cracks in the silicone. Look for wind damage. Check the roof especially. Check the windows for cracks and rock dings. All of these are issues that should be fixed soon-before they get any worse.

Check the paint for oxidation and weather damage. Is it dull looking? Keep it washed and waxed to avoid these issues.

There’s no doubt that your RV roof takes the brunt of the damage from bad weather and the baking rays of the sun. Roofs are designed to take a beating, but it’s always a good idea to keep it in the best shape possible. Your roof is likely made of rubber and should be cleaned 3-4 times a year. If you can’t see the surface of the roof because of dirt, etc., then it’s time to clean. Regular soap won’t be effective and you should only use commercial grade rubber roof soap. Once the roof is cleaned, cover it with a tarp or other covering until you are ready to use it again. You should also check the rubber roof tiles to see if the sealant is degrading. This can cause water to get into your RV. If you have sealant degradation, use a self-leveling sealer to keep it down. You can also use the sealer to fill in any cracks you may find as well.

Is your windshield broken, cracked, or spider webbed? These types of windshield damage can become an issue when you want to get away in your motorhome. You don’t have to let a damaged windshield keep you away from the open road and the RV lifestyle. Cousins RV has a wide variety of high quality windshield replacement services in Loveland, Colorado and the surrounding areas. We don’t rush the job and make sure your windshield is installed properly – and you don’t even have to deal with any insurance companies. We will handle all the paperwork and other issues related to the claim, so you can focus on getting back on the road.

Normal wear and tear can sometimes cause damage to your side windows, including broken and peeling seals. You can tell if you have side window problems if they begin to fog up on the inside. We can repair and replace all kinds of side windows and glass. We can get them sealed or replaced as necessary. Once again, we’ll manage all the contact with the insurance company so you don’t have to.

Yes, there are several factors that will determine the rate you get. It depends if the RV is new or used. A used RV (normally over 3 or 4 years old) will get a higher interest rate than a new RV. Your down payment will affect your interest rate. If you finance the RV on a zero down program the interest rate will be higher. The term of the loan will affect the interest rate. The shorter the term the higher the rate, the longer the term the lower the rate. The amount financed will affect the interest rate. The lower the dollar amount the higher the rate, the higher the dollar amount the lower the rate. Your credit history (credit rating or score) will affect the rate. The higher your credit score is the lower the interest rate will be.

You should be aware of what the current rates are for RV loans, and based on the criteria listed determine if you are getting the best possible rate you can get. If you think you qualify for a lower rate, by all means try securing a better rate elsewhere. There are several RV specialty lenders on the internet that would like your business and will offer competitive rates. Do not however let too many lenders run a credit check on you to try and get a lower rate. This can backfire so be selective about who, and how often your credit is being checked.

There are usually a couple of RV lenders that will offer no money down finance programs. These programs will have certain guidelines to qualify. The type of RV, dollar amount, term of the loan and your credit rating can all factor into these types of programs. The finance rate will usually be higher too.

The term of the loan will be based on the dollar amount financed and the age of the RV. Some RV lenders are offering 20 year loans on new RV’s with financed amounts over $100,000 and loans ranging from $25,000 to $99,000 can qualify for 15 year loans. Loan amounts between $10,000 and $25,000 may qualify for 10 to 12 years loan terms.

Nobody wants to, but the biggest advantage of a long term loan is you get a lower monthly payment. Financing $100,000 for 240 months at 7% interest would be $775 a month. The same loan for 120 months would be $1,161 a month. You save almost $400.00 a month. But keep in mind you will have little or no equity if you try to trade within the first several years.

RV’s are basically considered a luxury item, so the criteria to finance an RV are more stringent than it is to finance an automobile. There are lenders that will finance below average credit but interest rates will be higher.

The majority of RV loans from RV specialty lenders are simple interest fixed rate loans. What this means is you will only pay interest on the principle owed, and in most cases there is no penalty for paying the loan off early. If you choose to pay more than your required monthly payment you can shorten the term of the loan and save on interest.

Yes, a fully self contained RV is considered a 2nd home and the interest paid is deductible, if you are not already deducting the interest on a 2nd home. At the time of this writing an RV is considered a qualified residence if it is one of the two residences chosen by the taxpayer for purposes of deductibility. To qualify it must provide basic living accommodations; meaning it has cooking, sleeping and bathroom facilities with fresh water and waste water holding tanks. Talk to your tax advisor about what is required to write the interest off on your RV.

Down payments will vary slightly between RV lenders but 10 to 20% down, in the form of cash or a trade-in, is usually the range. There are programs that offer low down, or no down payment but this will usually increase the interest rate. Most banks want to see your good faith commitment to the loan.

Yes, insurance is required when you close on the loan. The bank will not loan the money until they have proof of insurance.

It is my personal opinion that it makes more sense to finance your RV purchase. If you finance the RV you can maintain your personal financial status without liquidating any assets. You can also take advantage of writing off the interest on your income taxes if the RV qualifies.

Yes. Transmissions need to be serviced. There is a lot of extra wear and tear because they are towing something very heavy. The filters need to be changed and the pan that has a magnet to collect metal fragments should be checked. If there are metal fragments in it, that is not good news.

Fender benders happen and if your RV has been in an accident and there is any type of damage to the body, then you need to have a body shop technician take a look at it as soon as you can get it there. Often, unseen damage may be involved that isn’t at first visible, and you may not realize it until it causes a major problem. Getting a flat tire on the road happens occasionally, and it is important that you have your vehicle looked at soon after. A tire blowout can be a major cause of body damage to the RV as well as potentially damaging the interior of the coach. If the paint of your RV has been chipped or scratched, Cousins RV does paint touch-ups as well as a full paint job.

There are occasions where a small chip or crack can be repaired, but given that the windshield is part of the structural integrity of your RV, it’s usually better to just have it replaced.

An RV isn’t like a car or truck. A quick glance at the tire tread isn’t usually the defining moment for replacing RV tires. A good rule of thumb is to replace the tires as soon as the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. The warranty is based on the age of the tire from the time the tire rolled out of the factory and usually expires four or five years later. Replacing them at this point makes sure you maintain the maximum protection. Blowouts can cause major damage to the frame of your RV and it’s better to replace the tire when the warranty expires than to experience a blowout and bent axle.

When you have a blowout on the road, it’s not just a matter of getting a jack and spare out and replacing it like you would on a regular car. An RV is a different animal entirely and a flat can be not only dangerous, but potentially damaging to the vehicle as well. When the tire blows, there will likely be damage to the molding, wheel well, tanks, and valves that are near the tire when it blows. The sheer weight of the RV may cause the wheel to actually bend and possibly damage the axle of the RV. When a blowout happens, get on the phone and immediately contact a mobile repair technician to come and change the tire unless you have the equipment necessary to do it yourself. Even if you are able to change it yourself, it’s important that the vehicle is checked out by an RV body shop to see if the blowout caused any additional damage. They can take care of all types of collision damage and other repairs from blowouts to extensive collision repairs. You can call us today and get a free estimate.

Of course we do. Our brand new paint booth dwarfs most others in the state at 55' long and 16' x 16'. We can paint anything from an RV motorhome to busses, travel trailers, toy haulers, fifth wheels, horse trailers, and cargo trailers. We have more than 25 years of experience in body work and painting RVs and trailers. We can provide aluminum trailer hail repair after those troublesome thunder storms, fiberglass repair on trailers and motorhomes, as well as collision repair. We provide quality work with a quick turnaround and service almost all makes a models. We even have the ability to color match with DuPont Acquire Digital Paint Color Matching (excludes all Airstream models).

We’ve made the process of renewing your membership as simple as possible. Once you get out on the road, we know you may be too busy to remember to renew your plan. Luckily, we have an automatic renewal option that you can opt into if you’d like to save time on renewing.

Absolutely not. Once you buy an RV, we understand that you may be out on the road for extended periods of time. We know how annoying it can be to come home to large stacks of junk mail. This is why we limit the amount of mail that you get from us. In fact, you can even change the way you receive communications from us by changing your account information.

You never have to worry about Cousins RV selling any of your private information. We understand that, in this modern day and age, personal privacy is more important than ever. We appreciate the trust that our customers put into us, and by taking a look at our privacy policy, you’ll see that we’ll never violate this trust.

The National Motor Club (NMC) is a member service that has been providing emergency roadside assistance and other services for those with RV motorhomes, whether they are toy hauler trailers or simply small travel trailers, for 55 years. NMC is independently owned and one of the premier organizations when it comes to RV camper services.

We definitely aren’t in the reimbursement business. We understand that RV vacations are already costly enough, so you may not have the funds immediately available to handle what could be a serious issue. Because of this, we provide prepaid services so you can simply relax and let us handle things. Please keep in mind that in some instances, such as when police take over, we may need to handle matters in a different way.

That depends. Homeowner Insurance Companies specialize in different areas of risk. A good policy for your home contents may not have good collision coverage on toy hauler trailers, small travel trailers, RV motorhomes, etc. A poor home policy for contents may have excellent RV collision coverage. The best thing to do is to call your Home Insurance Agent and ask for details on your specific policy, as well as ask what your options are. Avoid paying for double coverage. Typical items you would use in a home that you use in your RV are probably covered already, but be sure you have complete coverage in case of disaster, and be sure to ask about limitations.

Full-timers need to discuss this with their insurance agents. Usually a blended policy is best—a policy that covers both your home and auto adequately in case of a covered loss to either. If you only use your RV part-time, you can benefit from a policy that has different coverage when it is not in use and is “in storage.” Some policies have extra coverage that begins the moment you pull out of your driveway for a vacation adventure—the RV then becomes your “permanent residence” for a short time.

Maybe. If you have made no changes to the RV’s interior or exterior, then probably not. If you like to upgrade items, or have added racks or awnings, then maybe so. Say you bought a huge 50? TV for the RV, or added a large bike rack to the rear. In either case, it would be a good idea to call your agent and ask if you need a rider or if the item is covered under your existing policy.

Normally, most “total loss replacement” policies would only cover up to the policy limit if the RV was new and the “total loss” was within a year of purchase. Just like with automobile coverage, the moment you drive your new RV home, it is considered “used” and depreciates quickly. Talk to your insurance agent about this so you have a good understanding of what limitations your policy has. Talk in “what if’s” to your agent to get an understanding of real life situations that might occur. What if there’s a bad storm and a tree falls on your RV camper tomorrow…same thing in two years? What is covered now?—What about two years from now? What if your 6-month-old small travel trailer is stolen from your driveway three days before your first adventure and it’s recovered a month later, totally stripped on the inside? Say you rent an RV to a family member or friend when you are not using it and it is in a collision or stolen. In these instances, what is covered? Will you be made whole? What is not covered? These are just examples of questions you could ask.

Much like auto insurance, all we need are the answers to a few simple questions to bind a minimal policy. It may take a few more minutes to discuss the various discount programs, of which there are at least a couple dozen. Most policies can be set up in less than a half hour.

An “extended warranty” is actually an “extended service contract” that you pay for in advance in order to cover the cost of RV breakdowns that may occur after the actual warranty period has expired. This is not like a standard service contract for other road vehicles, which covers routine maintenance like oil changes, but instead is designed to help you with higher-cost repairs such as total failures of systems on your RV. You still must pay for regular RV maintenance in order to keep your extended service contract active. An extended service contract frees you from the worries of what to do when your RV breaks down, allowing you to more fully enjoy your travel and RV usage.

If you carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the extended service contract(s) that you are offered, you can save yourself a great deal of money in the long run and add a great deal to the resale value of your RV… if the price of the service contract offered is appropriate to the benefits being offered in return. Extended service contracts take on the role of insurance for major financial outlays on high-cost RV repairs over the time period covered by the contract. Advantages of an extended service contract include:

• Removing the worry of surprise expenses from many/most costly RV Repairs
• Managing the risks of high-cost expenses for major RV system breakdowns (budget control).
• Increasing resale value
• Ensuring that repairs are not done at an inflated price, and are performed by trusted repair facilities.

If you sell your RV, the extended service contract can be transferred, and this potentially adds a great deal of value which may reflect in your resale price. If the buyer chooses not to take on the service contract, you can cancel it and get a prorated refund for the remaining months on your contract.

No. You must pay for regular maintenance and for service on pre-existing conditions in order to keep the extended service contract active. Alternatively, you may perform the maintenance and repairs yourself, provided you log all receipts, odometer readings, dates, and what repair/maintenance was performed.

Shop around and look at other sources for RV extended service contracts besides the dealership where you purchase your RV—you may save yourself a great deal of money that way. Get a copy of the contract and review it thoroughly before signing it. There are different types of coverage to consider. Make sure you understand what kind of protection is being offered. Find out how easy it will be to locate a qualified service repair facility, and what it takes to obtain service when you are traveling.

It’s easy to leave a few things behind when you’re hurriedly packing up and getting ready to head out. Create a checklist with questions like:

• Are Your RV’s water hose, sewer hose, and power cord disconnected and stowed away?
• Are your awnings all in and antenna down?
• Did you release the parking brake?
• Are the wheel chocks removed, jacks up, and the slide out brought in?
• Is there anything that is loose or should be stowed in a cupboard or cabinet?
• What’s your tire pressure?

The checklist is an easy way to remember the essentials and make sure you don’t forget anything important. That way you can spend your time on the road enjoying the trip and not worrying about the water or sewer hose.

Of course! Plenty of RVers take off at any time of the year in their Motor Homes or Travel Trailers–What better way to get your snowmobiles around than in your Toy Hauler? Whether you’re heading to warmer climates in the colder months or guarding your RV and yourself against the cold, RVing can be an adventure every time. The easiest way to enjoy the cold in your RV is getting the right RV. Some coaches are prepped for the colder months by providing more insulation and more “Four Seasons” ready designs. If you want to experience some colder camping with assistance, come camping with us in December! Boyd Lake State Park is beautiful in the winter and we guarantee you won’t freeze. Remember, even a four seasons camper needs to be winterized in colder temperatures when not in use.

You and your family’s safety should be your number one priority when camping. Luckily with some precaution, you won’t have to think about it and can relax and have some fun! Make sure your RV is equipped with at least one full First Aid kit with all the essentials you’ll need for any camping accidents.

You might want to keep a smaller first aid kit in your RV’s outside storage and a more extensive one inside. Next, you’ll want to get a few fire extinguishers for your RV: Preferably one for your bedroom, one for your kitchen/dining area, and one for the outside of your Motor Home or Trailer. You’ll want to give them a shake every few months to be sure the chemicals inside are loose and the unit will work properly if needed.

Whether you’re a new camper or an experienced traveler, our biggest advice is to always see something new! We live in a beautiful country with exciting and diverse landscapes. Go on an adventure! Check out this list of National Parks and this list of Colorado State Parks which include:

• Garden Of The Gods

  

• Mesa Verde

  

• Rocky Mountain National Park

  

We promise, if you start traveling and talking to fellow RVers, the friendliest people around, you will have a never ending list of places to see. To save you a headache, be sure to give the campsites a phone call ahead of time to make sure your unit fits!

The condition of your RV’s Rubber Roof is a good indicator of how well it’s been maintained. RV Roofs take the brunt of the damage, even when you’re not using your Motorhome or Trailer. This is especially true in Colorado, where our high altitude and unpredictable weather put your roof through the ringer.

If there is a leak in your RV’s roof it can cause tons of damage before you even realize it, so don’t let it leak! All you have to do is get some Rubber Roof Seal and go up there at the beginning and end of every traveling season. You’ll apply the seal over any damaged or worn looking edges insuring that nothing will leak through. If you want, you can bring your RV in and we’ll do it for you! (We encourage this more and more the older your roof is)

You can purchase the Seal here and also a RV Cover, which will minimize roof damage while your RV is in outside storage.

If dry camping or “boondocking” is your style, you know that your RV’s battery life is very important. The simplest and easiest way to stretch that battery life just a little further is to replace the fluorescent or incandescent lighting in your trailer to LED lights. You can swap the bulbs with LED replacements or install all new LED fixtures.

Also, be sure to buy the right battery in the first place. Some of the cheaper brands have space underneath the connections perfect for corrosion to build up, leaving you with a shorter battery life.

If dry camping or “boondocking” is your style, you know that your RV’s battery life is very important. The simplest and easiest way to stretch that battery life just a little further is to replace the fluorescent or incandescent lighting in your trailer to LED lights. You can swap the bulbs with LED replacements or install all new LED fixtures.

Also, be sure to buy the right battery in the first place. Some of the cheaper brands have space underneath the connections perfect for corrosion to build up, leaving you with a shorter battery life.

It’s another term for “dry camping”. In other words, it means you’re camping without RV hookups. Usually this is done in a more remote location (ie not an RV campground). This type of camping appeals to hunters and anyone else that wants to take their coach out into the wild.

When you’re on the road or in a campground with your RV Motorhome or Travel Trailer, cooking your own food is a great way to save money and get your friends and family around a “home-cooked” meal. We understand though that your kitchen space is limited and cooking in your RV can seem daunting or stressful. Don’t stress! Just pick the right recipe. A perfect recipe on the road only uses a few ingredients and turns out great every time. Check out some that we’ve compiled on our Pinterest page

The motor itself, if purchased from a licensed and insured provider, will be reimbursed. If you got the motor from a private party, for example, off of Craigslist, then the cost will not be reimbursed even with a receipt. Likewise, casual labor is not reimbursable. All providers must be licensed businesses to be covered under this policy. Under the Emergency Roadside Assistance section, we will cover up to $100 for towing and up to $100 for locksmith services as well. Please submit all original receipts for reimbursement.

You can reach our office or visit Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM. If you need to get a hold of our claims department, their hours are Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM and on Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Your first choice is Cousins RV full-service RV dealership, there they can service all of your RV Repair needs. In addition, they have a huge selection of RV parts in our inventory and even have a full body shop. Your second choice is to one of INDS National Accounts, namely: Pepboys, Firestone, All Tune & Lube, AAMCO.

Repair facilities that are qualified to work on RV motorhomes will usually have no qualms about billing INDS directly for any repairs that your vehicle, from small RVs to an enormous Starcraft RV, may need.

The specifics of your coverage will be listed in your service contract. In most cases, mechanical failure will be covered along with a list of other components specific to the particular service plan that you chose.

Have Cousins RV give our claims department a call at (800) 526-0929 between the hours of 8 AM and 5 PM on Monday through Friday or from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays.

Take your RV camper to Cousins RV to will check out your RV Travel Trailer to ensure that the failure is covered in your service contract. If it is, your reimbursement benefits for rentals kick in. These are more thoroughly described in the Terms and Conditions section of your particular service contract.

Once the dealer is able to figure out what part is causing the failure in your RV motorhome and you are outside of a 100 mile radius of your home, give INDS a call at 800-526-0929 and we can provide you an authorization number to get you on your way.

You are definitely covered in at least one way. Our emergency roadside assistance will provide help if you give us a call at the number on the back of your membership card or in your contract. If, however, the issue that led to the breakdown isn't covered in your service contract, we can reimburse you for the expenses you may face related to needing a tow and roadside assistance.

If you are one of our members, you’ll likely receive a check through the U.S. Postal Service to reimburse you for any repair costs you may have experienced. There may be a deductible listed in your service contract, so keep that in mind. This process can begin upon receipt of the authorization number that was issued and the invoice for the repair order. For shops handling repairs, we will need the specific authorization number that was issued and a copy of the repair invoice. At this point, we can make payment via credit card in a 2-hour window. In addition, we are also able to reimburse repair facilities by sending checks through the U.S. Postal Service.

The new National Motor Club membership that we offer has several similarities to our traditional Platinum Plus and Gold plans. Your NMC membership will cover your RV camper, members of your family, and any vehicle that you’ve rented, leased, bought, or own that you decide to take along on your trip. This plan also includes unlimited access to our customer service hotline where you can speak with expert technicians who can assist in all of your needs.

Additionally, the NMC membership will provide benefits if something goes awry on your vacation, something goes wrong with anything you’re towing, or if you simply need roadside assistance.

Anyone acquainted with our Platinum and Gold plans will recognize the aforementioned benefits, but with the new NMC membership you’ll also be privy to the following:

• Medial Emergency Coverage: There’s always the chance that a medical emergency could happen out on the road, and this is true in even the safest RV motorhomes. If your family members or yourself face a medical emergency and your trip has you at least 100 miles away from your home base, and even if you’re in a foreign country, our medical emergency coverage will get you in contact with any medical professional that you may need ranging from pharmacies to hospitals. We even provide essentials such as admission assistance and evacuation if necessary. We’ll even cover pet assistance. This coverage doesn’t have any limits, but there may be additional fees if you’re going to be on the road for a certain number of days.
• Discounts on Camping: You’ve likely opted to buy an RV rather than deal with the headaches of motor home rentals, so we know saving a bit of money can come in handy. This is why Cousins RV customers get great camping discounts all over the country. We have direct relationships with Thousand Trails and can save you hundreds of dollars when you purchase camping passes directly through us.
• Low-Cost Accessories and Products for your RV Camper: Cousins RV provides all of its members with a membership to a travelers club at no additional cost. This entitles you to several discounts on everything ranging from RV supplies and accessories to camping essentials.
• Discounts on your RV Insurance: Our members also get great savings when purchasing RV insurance. Whether you saw that toy hauler for sale and just had to have it or you’re hitting the road in your Keystone RV, these policies will have you covered at a great discounted price. Even pop-up units, fifth wheels, and other trailers can be covered under these policies.
• Other Travel Savings: Regardless of whether you’re pulling a small travel trailer or driving a huge Heartland RV, we understand that you may need a rental car or hotel at some point. When these times arise, our members are entitled to huge savings at several car rental dealerships and hotels across the nation.

Give us a call today for more information on an NMC membership.

Our roadside assistance services provide everything that can make the life of an RVer simpler. You may think that only your RV camper would be covered under this service plan, but you’d be wrong. We cover your motor home and anything else that you may have brought with you. And yes, this includes your personal vehicle. In fact, it doesn’t matter whether your vehicle is leased, rented, or even borrowed; we still have you covered. Whether you’ve run out of gas on a long country road or accidentally locked the keys in your RV in a side-road deli, you can get our help with a quick phone call.

If you’ve been looking around at different roadside assistance programs, you’ve likely noticed that they’re very similar in many ways. The smallest of differences, however, is what makes Cousins RV different. Cousins RV has a customer service line open all day, every day. You can easily get in contact with RV camper experts who are skilled in all things related to the health of your vehicles. They’re ASE certified or factory trained technicians, and there are several issues that they can actually help you handle simply by talking you through them on the phone. While our experts are trained to handle issues with all vehicles, they are especially adept and accustomed to dealing with issues that directly affect RV owners. Tired of unaccountability due to outsourcing? You’ll never have to worry about it at RV Four Seasons. Between us and the National Motor Club, you’ll receive the best service and since we work directly with you and our service providers, you can always bet that our experts are accountable to you. You never have to worry about your phone call being sent over to a call center. We are an American-based company, and we make sure our customer service center is as well.

We know that when you buy an RV, it may not be your plan to head out on a vacation twice a month, so we offer several plans that are meant to cater to your specific needs. Even if you only head out a couple times throughout the year and don’t even go too far in your RV, the following plans may be just what you need.

• Basic Level Membership Plan: Our basic level membership provides you with the essential roadside assistance that you need while on any trip. The coverage, however, only extends to the main driver and no other vehicles that may be along for the ride. You also have access to our Customer Service Center which can walk you through simple fixes and assist in other issues so that your vacation isn’t ruined.
• Limited Level Membership Plan: This is our cost saving plan meant especially for those who don’t venture too far away from their home base or spend extended amounts of time camping. Many people hate buying roadside assistance plans because they don’t feel as if they use them. This plan is made for those individuals. Coverage will provide a single tow of 75 miles or less and assistance for one other roadside need. This can include running out of gas, locking the keys in the RV, or any other need that may pop up along the way.
• Even though you may not make a habit of staying out on the road or taking extended camping trips, you still may benefit from looking into one of our other plans. Higher level plans can cover all of your drivers so you won’t have to drive all night on your own, and any other vehicles that you bring along. In addition, you’ll get other perks such as discounts at rental car dealers, hotels, campgrounds, RV insurance companies, and much more. Give us a call today if you need help picking out the plan that best meets your needs.

The membership plans at Cousins RV vary in coverage, but we do have plans which provide coverage for everyone that’s along for the ride. So regardless of whether you’re traveling alone or with your significant other and five children, we have plans to suit your specific needs.

Absolutely. Your National Motor Club membership with Cousins RV will allow you unlimited coverage throughout all of Canada and the United States. We also provide coverage in Mexico, but keep in mind that this coverage is limited. You’ll need to receive approval from National Motor Club prior to having costs covered. In addition, coverage only goes up to $1,000 for each incident and will only be provided as reimbursement.

Absolutely. We’d never send our members out to campgrounds without protection. Or coverage is available while you’re camped out in any commercial campground. Not a commercial type of RVer? No problem! As long as there’s a maintained road within 100 feet of where you’re parked, we can still get out there to help.

You’ve just got to give us a call:

1. Your membership card will have a phone number on the back. Contact that number.
2. There are several ways for us to locate you. Your GPS technology on your phone, for instance, may help us locate exactly where you are. If not, you simply have to let us know where you’re located. Provide us with as much information as possible, including your vehicle’s appearance, cross streets, and anything else that may help us locate you, and we’ll be on the way.
3. Before we head out, though, we’ll need to know what’s wrong. Our customer service agents are amazing at their jobs and fully understand the needs and issues related to RVs. Just let them know what’s going on with your vehicle, and they’ll make sure the responding technicians have the equipment necessary to help you out.

We have thousands of emergency roadside services within our huge network, and they’re available at all times to assist you so that, regardless of when you’re having issues, we can help. We’ll find the provider that’s geographically closest to you and is capable of handling your specific issue. We’ll also work to find the provider who can get help out to you in the timeliest manner; we’ve basically got all bases covered.

Here at Cousins RV, we know you’re in a rush to get back out on the road if something slows down your vacation. This is why we find the closest facility that’s well-qualified to handle the specific repair that your vehicle needs.

Factory warranties and service contracts often end after fairly short periods of time, leaving you to cover any major tire and wheel costs out-of-pocket. The Nation Safe Drivers Tire and Wheel Protection Plan protects your investment, with three-year, five-year, and seven-year plans which all allow for unlimited mileage well beyond the warranties and service contracts offered by manufacturers and vehicle dealerships.

We reimburse 100% for flat tire repairs resulting from road hazards, and reasonable tire replacement costs if the tire(s) is non-repairable due to snags, cuts, punctures, or other road hazards. We reimburse for repairs or replacements of wheels that have been rendered unserviceable under the contract.

Often, damage to alloy wheels can be repaired. Repair must be attempted first by your repair facility, or the facility must document the reasons why repair is impossible. There are other limitations, call our toll free number for more information.

Besides flat tire, tire replacement, and wheel/rim protection, we also provide 24-hour emergency battery assistance (jumpstarts and cable tightening) and 24-hour lockout service (locksmith services).

NSD has been providing auto-related supplemental insurance products since 1962. We are now one of the largest suppliers of this type of insurance in the world. We offer over 64 different auto-related insurance products so there is definitely a product for everyone’s needs.

NSD processes all claims during its business hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., EST. When you call, we will assign you a specialist to help you through the process of filing a claim. Most NSD claims are closed within seven business days.

Call us as soon as you are aware of a loss, as all claims must be initiated within 60 days of the original date of loss.

We value our customers and have made this procedure as simple as possible! If the damage occurs outside our regular business hours and the repairs must be made before we re-open, we have special procedures that are made very clear in your policy.

Not all of our products are available in all 50 states. Please call 1-800-338-2680 and ask which NSD policies cover the state you reside in.

Yes, in some states we are known as “National Motor Club.”

The key tag enables you to walk into any participating Priority RV Dealership when you are travelling more than 100 miles away from home to receive service for your travel trailer, motorhome, fifth wheel, etc.

You can call our toll free number or use our online search feature.

Any repairs covered by warranty will cost you nothing. However, if your RV is not covered by a warranty, or if a warranty does not cover your RV’s repairs, you will need to pay the costs of both parts and labor at the time of service. The repair facility should be able to tell you when you bring in your RV for service whether or not the repairs needed are covered by warranty.

If you are more than 100 miles from home in your RV and have a problem that interferes with the basic function or safety in operating your RV, you can have your RV serviced at any one of our nationwide network of dealers. Away repairs are only for covered events that interfere with your vacation itinerary, not any minor repairs for convenience only. Call your selling dealer and tell them about your problem. Your dealer will determine if the repair can wait until you return home, or whether your RV requires immediate repair. If the repair is determined to be immediately needed, your selling dealer will provide the information you need to connect with the closest dealer in the Priority RV Network.

If you are unable to contact the dealer where you bought your RV, visit this link. Find the RV dealer nearest your current location and either go there or contact them for assistance. Tell them that you are a Priority RV Network customer and explain that you are unable to reach your selling dealer and that you need assistance.

The Priority RV Network also offers a full line of parts and accessories at the lowest prices, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week technical support, and roadside assistance coverage designed specifically for your RV and belongings.

Priority RV Network membership is very selective, and membership in our Network is an exclusive honor throughout the RV industry. In order to join our Network, RV dealerships must first meet several criteria. They must demonstrate financial stability, exceptional customer satisfaction, high sales volumes, superior parts and service facilities, outstanding reputation with manufacturers, suppliers, and customers, quality of personnel, commitment to the Priority RV Network’s Service Program and, finally, adherence to the Priority RV Network’s strict code of ethics.

You don’t need to carry your policy with you if you keep the Priority RV key tag on your key chain. All you need to do is show your key tag or policy statement at the dealer nearest you when you are more than 100 miles from home.

Priority RV Insurance Experts are at your service whenever you need them. Our expert claims representatives have all passed intensive and extensive training courses on all types of RVs and RV options, including (but definitely not limited to) toy haulers, toy hauler trailers, RV campers, RV motorhomes, Keystone RVs, Heartland RVs, and so on. Your claim will be handled quickly and properly to ensure that you receive the best service possible. No matter when your need occurs, Priority RV Insurance Customer Service and Claims Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Because Priority RV Network participating dealers all have met rigorous criteria for industry excellence, you will find that your needs are met quickly and without difficulty. Not only do you have a wide and easily-accessible network of RV dealers to assist you when you are far from home, but we also provide roadside assistance, specialized insurance, more service bays, certified and master RV technicians, and the most educated sales and parts consultants. All these offerings add up to Priority RV Network being able to meet virtually every need you may have when traveling in your RV motorhome or fifth wheel.

Priority RV Road Care’s Platinum Plus membership includes various kinds of emergency roadside assistance and personal assistant/concierge services that you can use whether or not you are traveling.

Your membership covers you, a spouse or significant other, and your children age 24 or younger as long as they are licensed to drive, while operating your RV or other vehicles owned, rented or borrowed.

We will tow your disabled vehicle to the nearest qualified repair facility. We will swap out your flat tire with your ready, inflated spare, or deliver a comparable tire to the disablement site. If you lock yourself out, we will send a locksmith, and in the event of a dead battery we will give you a jump start, or tow to a qualified repair facility. We also provide for dispatching a mechanic to the disablement site.

Oil, water, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid.

At this time, we are only able to deliver gasoline.

Platinum Plus features 24/7 technical assistance from our staff of RVIA/RVDA and ASE certified technicians who speak directly with you to troubleshoot operational issues.

Should you need emergency roadside assistance, our vast network of service providers offers a wide range of services to handle the special needs of your RV. Call technical support first, and if they cannot assist you immediately, they will help you by dispatching the appropriate roadside assistance.

When a tow is necessary, we will tow you to the nearest qualified repair facility regardless of mileage and do not add mileage charges.

When you are in need of regular maintenance, but are away from home, you can contact us. We’ll notify the closest, qualified service facility, discuss your situation with the appropriate contacts and make your appointment, then notify you of the appointment time, date, and location.

We know where the best campsites are, we will even make your dinner reservations and refer you to exciting, local activities. When your motorhome or other covered RV is repaired, we will deliver it back to you. We will also help you locate the lowest price gas stations. For an additional cost, we also offer worldwide travel and medical assistance.