Voided Warranty?
Q: I read somewhere that if I install aftermarket products on my truck, it would void the manufacturer's warranty. Is this true?
| rv Questions warranty
A: We take it that you are not referring to products that customize the look of a vehicle. You are referring to performance add-ons. If so, you should read the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which is very clear about this, although it might take a read or two to fully understand the act. Look it up on Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org).
The fact is the manufacturer cannot cancel your warranty merely because certain aftermarket products are installed on the vehicle. That's the spirit of the law. The warranty coverage can be denied only if an aftermarket part caused the malfunction or damage for which warranty coverage is sought. Disputes in this area usually boil down to arguments over facts and technical opinions, rather than over interpretations of the law.
The main point of interest here is that the act says that warranty coverage may not be conditioned upon the use of only the vehicle manufacturer's parts unless the parts are provided free of charge. And again, using an aftermarket product should not void your warranty unless it caused the problem.
Hitch Glitch
Q: After we decided to buy a travel trailer, the RV dealer told us we would need to spend almost $900 more on hitch work. Isn't this a little unreasonable?
| rv Questions hitch
A: The dealer should have explained the importance of proper hitch work during the sale. It is for your own safety and the safety of your loved ones. If the travel trailer you purchased requires a weight-distributing hitch, sway control, electric brake control, and wiring, then $900 is reasonable. Any reputable RV dealer will not sell the trailer without the proper hitch work.
Tool Time
Q: What tools do you guys use the most when you're creating your how-to stories? I'd like to buy a set of tools to keep in my truck.
A: Do yourself a favor and purchase the factory manual for your particular vehicle first. We don’t mean the owner's manual; the factory manual goes into detail regarding virtually every part on a vehicle, and it can outline what tools are needed for removing and installing critical parts. Obviously you can't fit every tool required in a small toolbox, but you can buy the tools that are most common to most areas of your vehicle. A toolbox is a work in progress. You will find yourself constantly adding to your collection until you are satisfied that you have what you need to make a repair on the road. Keep in mind that it's also a good idea to have on hand a can of Fix-A-Tire sealant, an air pressure gauge, some spare nuts and bolts, wire cutters, a small pocketknife, and mechanic’s gloves.
While some professionals prefer Snap-on Tools, Craftsmen is an affordable brand and fine for most small projects. Expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $300 for a good starter kit, which will come with an assortment of sockets, screwdrivers, adjustable wrenches, and perhaps a mallet or hammer. Don’t forget the safety googles!
Do-It-Yourselfer
Q: I like the idea of doing things myself, but some projects look too difficult. I know I could save money if I could do certain things myself, like a tune-up. Is there anything you can suggest?
| rv Questions do It Yourselfer
A: Slow down. One of the biggest problems we all have is trying to blow through the project without really understanding it. It's like math. To solve the equation you must understand what the formula is asking. It's best to do research before you buy a product you're thinking of installing yourself. Check with different automotive/RV forums to see what their members recommend and if they have had experience with the product. Many times, online groups will be glad to help.
Not reading the instructions carefully or understanding the product is what makes you uncomfortable. We have installed items that looked difficult, only to learn that they required no more than basic mechanics.
Fuel Mileage
Q: I've been told not to drive from one place to another with a tank full of fresh water, as it adds weight and reduces gas mileage, but where do you stop to get fresh water, and do you have to pay for it?
A: We went to our friends at McMahon's RV (www.mcmahonrv.com) to get their opinion. Here's what they had to say.
"Anytime tanks are filled, it is going to add weight and reduce fuel economy. The amount of loss depends on the tow vehicle and the weight of the towed trailer or fifth-wheel. We don't think the fuel-economy loss is going to be great enough to keep you from filling your water tank."
The other side of the issue is not only where to get water, but what quality will it be. Many parts of our country do not have conveniently available, quality water. If the water quality at home is good, then fill up at home. Having quality water is more important than the fuel-economy savings you would see by heading out without water. The heavy mineral content of poor-quality water, as well as other unwanted items in water, can stay in your tank. The minerals can calcify in your water heater and eat away at it.
Get A Quote
Q: Can my automobile insurance company cover my RV?
A: We get this question often. We don't recommend it. You might have a great insurance company for your home and automobiles, but an auto policy can't begin to cover the complexities of an RV. Several major insurance companies specialize in RV insurance. You need specialty coverage like vacation liability, total loss replacement, personal effects, and more.
