Very New/ Rookie Fifth Wheel Owner

[magnum62]

I just bought a new (to me) 2003 Jayco Eagle fifth wheel 26RKS. I need to learn alot, as this is our first camper.... Looking forward to being educated

 

[norty1]

Well welcome. On a unit specific like this you should be able to find and use much information from folks that have the same exact rig or equipment. Ask away!

 

[Wiscampsin]

Welcome to the forum magnum62 and congrats on your 2003 Jayco Eagle 26RKS. Lots of knowledgable and helpful people here ready to help you with any questions you may have.

 

[Terry-JAY]

Welcome to the forum! Like others have said - ask away - no dumb questions or flames around here....

 

[clutch-FRF]

Welcome to the forum. Only nice people reside here.

 

[magnum62]

I appreciate the welcome, I'm definitely definitely gonna be on a learning curve.
I am pulling the fifth wheel with a 03 F250 7.3 PSD, and had a pullrite super glide hitch installed. I pulled her home today and did surprisingly well. I'm in the process of making a list of things I need for our first excursion.. any advice is welcome.

 

[3'senough]

Congrat's and welcome. My advice for a first trip is keep it within and hour or less of your house. Some even do it in their driveway so you have access to everything and can't forget anything. If you do venture out then go to a full hook up facility that is close to good dept and or camping supply stores so that you can buy what you need. Those lists can get out of control and they never really go away. After the first night and morning you'll be surprised at just how much crap you really need, especially if you did not already transfer from another trailer.

Small check list before leaving your house.

Wood 2x8 planks for leveling, jack, power cord with any adapters that you have or need, flashlight, fuses that fit your TT and TV in the correct amps, chocks for your wheels and a sewer hose with connections and gloves. Safety equip like FireEx, jumper cables and other various key things.

Also since your unit is used change you battery in your smoke alarm, CO alarm and check the level of charge on the FireEx in the unit. Turn on your fridge at least a day ahead. Check water system for leaks and don't forget to fill the hot water tank before turning it on! Propane levels.

I'm sure I missed something critical but you will see others lists of must haves to compile a very good starter list. Good luck and enjoy it, you'll be a pro in no time.

 

[magnum62]

Thanks! That is a good start, I've been doing alot of reading.. learning about the inboard generator

 

[Tanker42]

Welcome to the forum! The members can answer a lot of questions. Reading is a great start. Be sure you have manuals for everything that is installed. It will help in understanding how the item works.

 

[WeylanBryant]

Be ***VERY*** careful with the "inboard generator"! There was a recent accident - I believe here in Colorado - where the campers did NOT "close an access door" properly and the ENTIRE family died due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Not to be a downer, because have a camper is absolutely FANTASTIC, but you need to take your time setting up and KNOW that you've done everything correctly. Speed is ***NOT*** what's needed. Relax, check everything twice, and enjoy!!

 

[CityFarmer]

Welcome to the forum and congrats on your new to you fiver!!