| trip report [message #232085] |
Tue, 03 December 2013 10:25  |
Bob S.
Messages: 143
Registered: October 2012
Location: Rapid City, SD
Karma:
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We set out for Iowa last Wednesday evening from Rapid City, SD. This was our first major trip since buying our GMC about 1 year ago. I was a little reluctant since each time we have used the motorhome in the past, there have been some issues. My wife and I were traveling with my son, daughter in law,3 month old grandson, and their Newfoundland dog. The last thing I wanted was to get stranded in sub-freezing temperatures with a baby.
I de-winterized the plumbing, dumped antifreeze in both waste tanks, and made a pump heater out of a light bulb. I filled the fresh water tank, said a prayer, started the engine and away we went.
We hit the interstate and found we had a tail wind (prayer helps) and drove to our first fuel stop. When we stopped we found the generator was surging constantly, we checked it out but could not figure out what the problem was, so we made the decision to shut it off and run on DC power the rest of the trip.
We drove to Sioux City, IA which is about 60 miles from our final destination and decided to get a few hours sleep. It was about 20 degrees outside but the furnace kept us cozy. We slept about 4 hours, then headed out at 6:00 AM and arrived at my daughters house just about the time they were getting up for the day.
We plugged the coach into 110 volts and I decided that Pam and I would stay in it, rather than take up space in my daughters house. After all, we were on an adventure. Everything worked perfectly, even though temperatures the first night dropped to single digits. When I got up I took a shower in the coach and had hot water with absolutely no sign of freezing (again prayer helps). I love this coach.
On Sunday I started the coach and pointed it toward home. It was a great nine hour trip with no issues. We set the cruise on 70 mph and averaged about 8 mpg.
My son has been an RV enthusiast since he was a boy. He is 27 years old and has already had 1 camping trailer and 2 motorhomes. He couldn't believe how effortless and comfortable the GMC is to drive. I suggested we take his MH on the next trip but he prefers to travel in mine. Maybe I have a potential convert on my hands.
The total trip was about 1000 miles with no unpleasant issues and lots of continuous smiles. I cant wait till the next one. Thanks for letting me rave about this!!! Bob
Bob and Pam Schilling
Rapid City, SD
"78 Royale
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