Tips for a First timer.

[tnchuck100]

Originally Posted by finally03gt

Thanks vacation,

I was under the impression that the X-chocks prevented roll off. Packing light will be the challenge. 6 years of tent camping for a family of 7, we have plenty of gear..haha.

I have used the X-Chocks without additional wheel chocks for several years. Never had a problem. The key is be sure the X-Chock is in the center of the tire and perfectly straight. That being said, if the grade is sever I would add wheel chocks.

[tnchuck100]

Power protection
Progressive Industries 30 Amp Portable Electrical Management System - Surge Guards - Power Protection - Electrical

[finally03gt]

Originally Posted by need-a-vacation

As for the dry tw, the manufacture does list it before the propane tanks or battery are on the tongue, so that will add 120-160lbs (20lb vs 30lb)

On that note.... I read that LP is about 4.25 lbs/gallon, and not to exceed 80%. Sound about right? I have 2 30lb tanks.

[need-a-vacation]

Some have posted that they (or seen someone) have only used the x-chocks and had the trailer roll some when on sloped ground.

Something I read here (or over on rv.net) is that when its time to put the trailer up for the winter the 1st time, go through and purge what you didn't use at all. With your short season (unless you can camp over the winter) will make that tough, but something to keep in mind every winter as well..... I know I need to do this!!! Lol I couldn't believe the stuff we pulled out of our last tt after only 2yrs!!!!

When time allows, check all the different mods that have been posted!!!!

[finally03gt]

Chocks are $7.99 at harbor freight. Seems like cheap insurance. Thanks guys.

[need-a-vacation]

Originally Posted by finally03gt

On that note.... I read that LP is about 4.25 lbs/gallon, and not to exceed 80%. Sound about right? I have 2 30lb tanks.

2-30lb tanks when full weigh about 110lbs, plus the battery at about 50lbs. You could always drop to 2-20lb tanks, or 1-30lb to save some weight. Just don't get to light of a tw that could cause sway!!!

It would be nice if manufactures started posting more realistic tw's even if it was with the standard (if there is an optional tank size) propane tank size, empty, but also include the battery weight.....

[finally03gt]

Weight, Weight, Weight. It will be my constant struggle given my TV.

Another question. I'm a big fan of doing things on the cheap. But as I've aged a bit, I've learned the difference between inexpensive and cheap. For example, rubber tire chocks....harbor freight, here I come at $7.99 a piece. Sewer hose....give me the best one you've got...haha.

So, what brands are trusted in this community, and where can we pinch pennies, and where should we just spend the cash?

[LabMan]

Don't know if all Jayco's have the same stickers on them, but our 2014 Octane's yellow sticker on the trailer gives a weight that includes full propane cylinders and full generator fuel tank. As a reference that weight is 7898 lbs. versus a brochure weight of 6930. I'm sure a large part of the difference is the 4000 Onan generator, fuel tank, and 18 gals of fuel. Just letting you know the weight with propane should be on the trailer when delivered.

[charles_cincy]

Originally Posted by finally03gt

Weight, Weight, Weight. It will be my constant struggle given my TV.

Another question. I'm a big fan of doing things on the cheap. But as I've aged a bit, I've learned the difference between inexpensive and cheap. For example, rubber tire chocks....harbor freight, here I come at $7.99 a piece. Sewer hose....give me the best one you've got...haha.

Those $8 chocks at Harbor frieght are nice and durable...but heavy. I prefer the $6 lightweight plastic ones from my RV store..

For the same reason, I prefer lynx blocks instead of wood.

[finally03gt]

Labman, Thanks for the reply. At this point, its just gonna be try and see on weight. I desperately wanted to pull before I bought, but I was "talked out of it". So, we'll make a couple of short trips, and absolute worst case, I'll rent a TV.

Good to know Charles. I noticed my local wal-mart has a nice selection of Camco products.

[need-a-vacation]

We used to load so much in the tt instead of the truck bed for that reason, weight.... It is a challenge!!!! Lol

As for the chocks, not sure about the HF ones, but I like the plastic ones that have support "in the middle". Had a set that would stack when stored, and they eventually gave way to crushing.

Worst case, but not ideal.... Take two vehicles if that would help.

Good luck!!!

[finally03gt]

Yea, I wish weight distribution was my only challenge, but unfortunately total Combined Gross is my challenge. Two vehicles is a realistic option we have discussed. Teenage girls like to road trip their own way anyhow..haha.