1000 Miles in 185RB/2012 Escape
We just got back from a 1000 mile trip with the 185RB and our 2012 Ford Escape. I thought folks might be interested in the very positive experiences we had on our six day trip.
First, the 2012 Escape is a V6, AWD version and it did a great job of hauling the 185RB. We had a mix of 2 lane and Interstate so it was a good chance to evaluate the combination. The sweet spot seems to be 62 mph. If we cruise at 62, mileage goes to about 13 mpg, there is minimal hitch bounce, and it's an easy drive. If the speed goes to 65 to 70 mph, mileage drops to 12.0 to 12.5 mpg, and the TV spends its time changing between fourth and fifth gears. So, on the Interstate, find some Canadian truckers (who are used to driving at 100 Kph) and tuck in with them. We don't use a LBH or anti-swag but all was well - no swaying issues at all.
Second, the 185RB is sweet! We've used it five times since getting it in April and each has been better. On this trip we were camping with friends who are tent campers so we had to run on stored water and battery electrics. (I've installed a second Group 24 battery in parallel with the original.) We used the campground bath house for showering. Still we had enough gray/black water capacity for our dish washing and toilet needs; both were full when we left the site on the sixth morning. We ran the refrigerator (Norcold) on LP and had no problem keeping things cold. In fact, the DW had to turn down the temperature to keep things from freezing. All systems worked, nothing leaked, and it was sure a lot more comfortable sleeping than the old tent!
The AWD was helpful as I had to backup a 20 degree sand and gravel drive to get to the site. It was definitely not an RV site. That's the beauty of the 185RB for us - if we're at a campground with 50 foot fifth wheels we can fit it but if we're off it the boonies it works just as well.
I would have included some pictures but we were too busy having fun to take any.
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Ross & Joan - 2014 185RB - 2015 Ford Explorer XLT V6/4WD
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