- First, one needs to have a direct line to customer service of the RV manufacturer. In our case it is National RV Inc. We used their support a number of times in the beginning due to unexpected issues. Most often the issues were due to our inexperience.
Example: While in Vicksburg, MS, we discovered a minor leak from the engine area (Freightliner). We had to change all plans and get our home to the nearest Freightliner Service Center which was in Jackson, MS approximately 50 miles out of our way. While the RV is in the repair shop, you are not allowed in your home due to strict rules with OSHA. This means 8 hours and sometimes more in the waiting room with Mitzy and the laptop. The one-day scheduled repair turned into three as there were complications. Freightliner is used to working for truckers, and work in shifts. One night we had to wait until the late shift was able to work on the problem and we were not able to get to our home until midnight. - Downsizing is critical. We brought way too much "stuff", and we are still discarding or using up what we have in supplies so the load is lighter.
- Advice for spouses - you'd better like each other a lot! 24/7 is different than evenings and weekends together. Flexability is the key to a happy life on the road together.
Ray's Reflections.... December 2006
At this point of our journey, we have become educated on several aspects of our new life having moved from a foundation home to one on wheels with lots of miles and travel.