Pete’s RV News

Welcome to our September e-newsletter! As always we look forward to sharing recent news, events, information and tips with our dedicated community of campers and RVers.

Along with you, everybody here at Pete’s RV is very much looking forward to spending good times with friends and family on Labor Day. The sales department and showroom are open Monday 9/6 from 9am to 5pm. Our parts store and service department are closed. All departments resume regular 9am - 6pm business hours on Tuesday 9/7. Everyone at Pete’s RV wishes you a fun, relaxing and safe Labor Day!

If you are in the Northern Vermont area, hopefully you made it to the 2010 Champlain Valley Fair in Essex Junction, VT. It was huge! Amusement rides. Food. Justin Bieber and Keith Urban. Food.  Big Trucks.  Food.  Farm and Animal Demos.  Did I mention food?

We displayed more than a dozen of our finest used and new RVs at the fair and were conveniently located directly across from the always exciting “Pork Chop Downs” pig race track! Thanks to everybody that came by for a visit.  For those that took advantage of our Fair Days Deal, enjoy your new campers!

A quick congrats to Pete’s RV business manager Kyle Williams. Last month he was presented with the Circle of Honor award from Easycare for excellence in providing clients with extended RV warranties.  He’s pictured here with the award and seasonal sales admin, Laura Chartrand. Nice work Kyle!

We hope you enjoy this edition of Pete’s RV eNewsletter and welcome your feedback. Please tell us what’s great about it as well as suggestions on how we can make it even better.

Thanks for thinking Pete’s RV!

Manager’s Choice: Montana High Country with Helium Technology

As the internet marketing manager, I spend a big chunk of my time taking pictures and video of our RV inventory. My pick of the month is Montana’s High Country 333DB, 323RL and 343RL models. Inside and out, and top to bottom they are first-class!

From the smoke gray, high-gloss coat exterior to the two-tone interior wood cabinetry, Keystone RV really nailed  these fifth wheel designs. What’s really mind-blowing is Helium Technology allows them to include all of the comforts and features of a top-tier fifth wheel, yet weigh up to 2500 pounds less. Like I said, mind-blowing!

Take a look at our Montana High Country and entire 2011 inventory on the Pete’s RV website.  Click on any model’s “Get a Better Price” button to receive a special eNewsletter price quote!

Recent Pete’s RV Bloglines

“I Spent the Summer RVing with My Family…and Loved It!”

Pete’s Video pReView: Sprinter 311BHS Travel Trailer

Pete’s Video pReView: Cougar X-Lite 31SQB Travel Trailer

Pete’s Video pReView: Outback 301BQ Travel Trailer

Product News: New Passport 3220BH Travel Trailer

The Passport division of Keystone RV Company is offering a new floorplan for 2011. If you are looking to sleep 8-plus, have no fear!  The Passport 3220BH can handle this demand with ease.

The rear quad-bunkhouse is outfitted with with two conventional bunks, a dropdown bunk, roll over sofa, and wardrobe. There’s a booth dinette and fold-down sofa in the living/kitchen area, and queen bed in the master bedroom. Two slideouts plus a side kitchen and bath allow this floorplan to remain open and offers plenty of room for family and guests. A fully-equipped outdoor kitchen adds a nice touch of convenience for those picnic table meals.

We have the 3220BH on order and expect to see it at the dealership soon. Please contact us if you wish to learn more about the Passport 3220BH.

August Top Views on Pete’s RV Website*

1. Outback 260FL Travel Trailer
2. Springdale 294BH Travel Trailer
3. Outback 301BQ Travel Trailer
4. Sprinter Select 26BH Travel Trailer
5. X-Lite 31SQB Travel Trailer
Honorable Mention: Montana 3750FL Fifth Wheel

*furnished by Google Analytics

Pete’s RV Store Feature: Adco RV Covers 15% Off Plus Free Shipping

It’s hard to believe, but Summer is ending and the time has arrived to prepare your RV for Winter Storage. A properly fitting and durable cover is a smart investment to protect your recreation vehicle through cold, wet winters.

Adco RV covers are 100% breathable and virtually eliminate mold and mildew. Highly recommended for all Northern States and Canada. ADCO RV covers feature full one-piece tops and triple seams for durability. A ladder cap reinforces rear panel reducing cover wear over ladder. Convenient zipper entry door and storage bag included.

While supplies last, Pete’s RV Store is offering an exclusive 15% DISCOUNT and FREE SHIPPING in the U.S. on all ADCO SFS AquaShed RV Covers. Call 1.800.639.5093 or email the Pete’s RV Store for discount pricing and to place your order.

If you are unsure what size you need for your folding camper, travel trailer, fifth wheel, toy hauler, or motorhome, go to the ADCO RV Cover web page for sizing information.

This month’s Pete’s RV Store Gift Card drawing winner is Bill N. from Daytona Beach, FL. Congrats!

RV Service Tips: Maintenance of Roof Seams and/or Joints

Roof sealants will deteriorate which can lead to leaks. Deterioration can be accelerated in heavy sun, changes in climates (expansion/contraction with aggressive temperature change), and cold climates. Expensive remedies to repair severe damage can be avoided with regular inspection. Whenever preparing an RV for storage or use, inspect the roof, paying close attention to all seams and/or joints and attachments where sealant is used. Look for cracks, shrinkage and/or gaps/voids in the sealants. These must be carefully cleaned and resealed. Use sealant made especially for RV roofs and joints. Sealants from hardware or home improvement stores are not appropriate alternatives.

For further reference, Chapter 12 of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual does a nice job explaining Care and Maintenance. A PDF version of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual is available on the Pete’s RV website.

RV Q and A: Door Deadbolt Lock Keys

Question: I lost the keys for my camper door deadbolt lock. How can I get them replaced?

Answer: If you happened to record the serial code on the keys, your local recreation vehicle dealer may be able to get copies for you. Otherwise, you may be out of luck. Unlike door handle locks, there is not a master key for deadbolts. We always recommend new RV owners write down the serial codes from the keys and store the information in their tow vehicle. That way, if you lock yourself out, campground management or a local RV dealer has a better chance of getting you unlocked without taking more drastic (and expensive) measures!

Pete’s RV Customer Feedback

“A couple weeks ago I told an acquaintance about Pete’s RV and my good experience. I found out yesterday that he has already purchased one and picked it up!”–Trevor H. via Email Message

Read more testimonials about Pete’s RV Center!

What’s New on Pete’s RV Social Webpages

Add Pete’s RV as a Friend on Facebook and Get $150.00 Off when you buy an RV from us!*

*Savings applied at time of purchase

RV Flashback: Pete’s Trailer Mart Circa 1980 and 1989

Check out the classic Kodak moments! These pictures were taken back in the Pete’s Trailer Mart days. We were known more so for our specialty in trailer repair and wielding than sales at that time. Notice the stove pipe in the shot of the Pete’s RV storefront. Believe it or not, but that’s how we heated the place!

Pete’s RV News

Welcome to our July e-newsletter!  As always we look forward to sharing recent news, events, information and tips with our dedicated community of campers and RVers.

For starters, hats off to our entire service team during some intense hot and humid weather.  While the rest of the staff had to only periodically venture out of the comforts of climate control, the service team was sweating through a ton of jobs and prep work.  Thanks to the entire crew for a maintaining your usual super attitude and not getting “hot under the collar” during the heat wave!

The McGinnis family RV trip wrapped up after six weeks traveling cross-country.  They made final stops at Niagara Falls and Toronto before heading back to Vermont.  For those of you following their travels on Facebook and YouTube, more pictures and Abbie’s entertaining video journal will continue to be posted in coming weeks.  Stay tuned!

We hope you enjoy this edition of Pete’s RV eNewsletter and welcome your feedback.  Please tell us what’s great about it as well as suggestions on how we can make it even better.

Thanks for thinking Pete’s RV!

Why Wait for 2011 to Buy a 2011 Keystone RV?

Pete’s RV Center already has a deep inventory of 2011 Montana, Outback, Cougar, Passport, Sprinter and Springdale RVs.  So no need to wait until next year for that specific model or floorplan.  The best part?  You don’t need to wait until 2011 to get the lowest price!

Take a look at our entire 2011 inventory on the Pete’s RV website and click on any model’s “Get a Better Price” button to receive a special eNewsletter price quote!

Recent Pete’s RV Bloglines

Pete’s RV Center Flashback: 2001 Story from Business People VT Magazine

Keystone RV Company News Highlights, Summer 2010

Pete’s Video pReView: Outback 260FL Travel Trailer

Pete’s RV Attends FMCA Northeast Region Rally in VT Backyard

Product News: New Cougar X-Lite 29RES Fifth Wheel

The Cougar division of Keystone RV Company recently announced an exciting, new floorplan. With a double-slide, rear lounge, The Cougar X-Lite 29RES Fifth Wheel offers tons of living space.  The extra room will be appreciated by all the guests piling in to watch the big game on your entertainment console’s 32 inch television!  There is also a hallway linen closet and wardrobe slide in the master suite to provide plenty of room for extra clothes, towels and sheets.  With all the extras, the X-Lite 29RES is not extra heavy.  It weighs in at 7450 pounds.  Production is set to begin in September.

Please contact us if you wish to learn more about the Cougar X-Lite 29RES.

July 1st-20th Top Views on Pete’s RV Website*

1.  Outback 260FL Travel Trailer
2.  Outback Sydney 310BHS Travel Trailer
3.  Springdale 298BH Travel Trailer
4.  Outback Sydney 325FRE Fifth Wheel
5.  Outback Sydney 320FDB Fifth Wheel
Honorable Mention:  Outback 312BH Travel Trailer

*furnished by Google Analytics

Pete’s RV Store Feature:   Hot New Products

Front page items in the Pete’s RV Store Summer Hot New RV Products flier includes the Sunforce Solar Battery Maintainer, Tow and Stow Dual Hitch Ball, and the Folding Step by Safety Step.

Eye-catching store product of the month is the translucent propane tank by Lite Cylinder Company (page 3).

It’s lighter, won’t rust, and most importantly, no more guessing how much propane is left in tank (so no more running out halfway through a BBQ!).

This month’s Pete’s RV Store Gift Card drawing winner is Harvey C. of Cote-Saint-Luc, QC.  Congrats!

RV Service Tips:  Power Requirements

Do you know if your unit requires 30 or 50 unit amp service?  The best way to determine this hinges on what appliances you will be running.  If it’s a single roof air conditioner, refrigerator, and converter, with periodic use of the microwave and smaller appliances, a 30 amp service is recommended.  The air conditioner and microwave may not be able to run simultaneously with the 30 amp service, so adjust the thermostat accordingly.  Adding a second roof air conditioner will require 50 amp service.

For further reference, Chapter 7 of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual does a nice job explaining electrical requirements.  A PDF version of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual is available on the Pete’s RV website.

RV Q and A:  Wasps and Yellow Jackets

Question: Is there any way to permanently stop wasps and yellow jackets from building nests in my heater compartment and fan unit?

Answer: Adding mud dauber screens to your heater access door, fans and other vents will help prevent wasps, yellow jackets and bees from building nests, but won’t completely stop them.  New nests and hives can pop up without notice in any accessible nook and cranny of an RV.  The best course of action is to check compartments and fittings every few days and spray as necessary with a common wasp and hornet killer.  This insecticide is powerful stuff, so read the directions carefully before using.

Customer Feedback

“I just went with my friend who purchased a Montana 333DB. He was impressed all the way with your dealership!”–Stephen S. from Grand Prairie, AB

Read more testimonials about Pete’s RV Center!

Pete’s RV Facebook Update:  “How many miles did the McGinnis Family Travel?”

It’s that simple!  Send a message to our Pete’s RV Facebook profile with your guess on how many total miles the McGinnis Family traveled during their cross-country RV trip (don’t give away your answer and post it on our Wall!).   In a week or so, we’ll pick one winner with the closest guess to receive a $100.00 Gift Card to the Pete’s RV Store (it can be used on our online store too). If somebody gets the total mileage exactly right, we’ll throw an extra 50 bucks on the gift card. Good luck!

Share Your Camping Pics - We’re looking for Facebook friends to share a picture of the family hanging out around the RV at a favorite camping spot.  Post your photo and comment and/or park recommendation at the Pete’s RV GoRVing Group on Facebook!

RV Flashback:  2001 Business People Vermont Article

While poking around the internet, we came across this neat article on Pete’s RV.  It’s a bit dated.  But aside from the Keystone RV Company brands we sell and structural improvements to the dealership, our business philosophies remain as strong as ever.  For those of you not familiar with the origins of Pete’s RV Center, the article does a nice job summarizing the history, partners and growth of the RVing community.  A few vintage pics too!  The full article on Pete’s RV is available at Business People Vermont Magazine.

Pete’s RV News

Welcome to our Fourth of July e-newsletter!  As always we look forward to sharing recent news, events, information and tips with our dedicated community of campers and RVers.

Along with you, everybody here at Pete’s RV is very much looking forward to spending good times with friends and family during Fourth of July Weekend.  Sales and and our parts store will be open on Saturday 7/3 from 9:00am to 3:00pm, closed Sunday 7/4 and Monday 7/5.  We reopen on Tuesday morning at 9am.  Everyone at Pete’s RV wishes you a fun, relaxing and safe Fourth of July!

Congratulations to Pete’s RV employees with recent graduates:  Devra Metevier (Marty), Jay Sweeney (Shannon) and Joe Vartuli (Tara).  Excellent job grads and parents alike!

If you didn’t catch any of our recent blog, Twitter or Facebook posts, Pete’s RV Sales Manager, Todd McGinnis and family are traveling cross-country together for six weeks in a 2006 Discovery 39L Class A Diesel Motorhome. They’ve already logged more than three thousand miles and were last seen heading up the coast of CA.  You can view photos of the McGinnis RV adventure on our Facebook page, and video updates on the Pete’s RV YouTube channel. Check it out!

One quick sales note:  If you are hunting for a Best Buy on a used RV, all Used Fifth Wheel purchases from 6/18/10 - 7/18/10 receive a free trailer hitch (pictured) and installation.

We hope you enjoy this edition of Pete’s RV eNewsletter and welcome your feedback. Please tell us what’s great about it as well as suggestions on how we can make it even better.

Thanks for thinking Pete’s RV!

Recent Pete’s RV Bloglines

Pete’s RV Sales Manager & Family Travel Cross Country in Motorhome

Pete’s RV Sizzling Sales Deals

Pete’s RV Parts and Accessories Available on Parts66.com Network

Product News: Toy Haulers

Along with being able to offer floorplans for big and small motorized toys, Keystone manufactured haulers also take into account sleeping and living space requirements.  From the luxury of a fully decked out Raptor fifth wheel to the convenience of a lighter weight Cougar 325SRX, Keystone can get you off to the trails or races in style!  Here’s a few shots of the toy haulers available at Pete’s RV:

May/June Top Views on Pete’s RV Website*

1.  Outback 260FL Travel Trailer
2.  Outback Sydney 310BHS Travel Trailer (Best Buy)
3.  Passport 3050BH Travel Trailer (Best Buy)
4.  Outback 312BH Travel Trailer
5.  Sprinter 311BHS Travel Trailer
Honorable Mention:  Springdale 298BH Travel Trailer (Best Buy)

Check out our Best Buys on Selected New 2010’s.  Remaining Models are Going Fast!

*data furnished by Google Analytics.

Pete’s RV Store Feature:  July Sales Flier

Front page items in the Pete’s RV Parts and Accessories Store July monthly sales flier includes the Phoenix Handheld Showerhead, E2 Sway Control Hitches, and UF Scissor Jacks.

Eye-catching store product of the month is Surge Guard (page 17).  What makes their ad really eye-catching is the picture of the projection screen TV mounted inside a motorhome.  Very cool!  RV electronics in the modern RV are no different than the ones found in your home.  Yet, there is a higher risk of damage in RV campgrounds with poor power quality.  Protect your valuable electronics with surge protection.

This month’s Pete’s RV Store Gift Card drawing winner is Melissa L. of Newport, VT.  Congrats!

RV Service Tips:  Hitch/Pin Weight

Hitch/pin, or more commonly known, tongue weight is the weight of the trailer that is transferred to the hitch when it is hooked up to the tow vehicle.  A common range used to determine acceptable tongue weight is between 10 and 15 percent of the gross trailer weight (GTW).  There’s definitely a happy balance that needs to be found when dialing in proper tongue weight.  If the trailer tongue exerts too little downward force on the tow vehicle’s hitch ball, it can cause trailer sway. If the tongue weight is too heavy, steering is compromised.

For starters, you can get the GTW from the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).  The GVWR is typically found labeled in pounds and kilograms on the driver’s side towards the front of a trailer. Estimate the tongue weight by calculating 10% and 15% of the GVWR.  Always ensure that your hitch tongue weight capacity meets your tongue weight calculations.  Max tongue weight capacity is usually found etched, or labeled on the hitch.  If not, refer to the manufacturer’s website, or owner’s manual.  Having these calculations on hand will help ease the hitching process and ensure safe towing conditions.

For further reference, chapter 3 of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual does a nice job explaining towing considerations.  A PDF version of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual is available on the Pete’s RV website.

RV Q and A:  Insurance Required for Tow Vehicles?

Question: Is insurance required for travel trailers, fifth wheels and pop-ups?  Does an auto insurance policy also cover the tow vehicle?

Answer: While law does not require you to carry a special policy on towable trailers, it is highly recommended.  Whether or not your auto policy provides coverage on your towable depends on the insurance carrier.  Best bet is to contact your insurance agent and find out.  Many insurance carriers can add the tow vehicle to your policy.  But since this may only cover collision, liability, etc., you may want to consider getting specialized RV insurance that also covers RV equipment, personal belongings and total loss replacement.  You can take a look at American Adventure Insurance for more info on specialized RV coverage.

Customer Feedback

“A couple weeks ago I told an aquaintance about Pete’s RV and my good experience.  I found out yesterday that he has already purchased one and picked it up!”–Trevor H. from Ft. McMurray, AB

Read more testimonials about Pete’s RV Center!

Pete’s RV Facebook Update:  Monthly Picture Hunt Contest

All you need to do is find the pic shown here on the left somewhere on the Pete’s RV website.  Hint: It is within the unit pictures of a specific NEW Travel Trailer. When you find the pic, send a message to our Pete’s RV Facebook profile (don’t give away your answer and post it on our Wall!).  Include the travel trailer brand, model and stock number you found it.  In July, we’ll pick one winner to receive a $100.00 Gift Card to the Pete’s RV Store (it can be used on our online store too). Good luck!

Most recent winner was Tara S. from Richmond, VT.  She found last month’s picture on the Outback 312BH page.

Share Your Camping Pics - With the 2010 camping season well underway, we’re looking for Facebook friends to share a picture of the family hanging out around the RV at a favorite camping spot.  Post your photo and comment and/or park recommendation at the Pete’s RV GoRVing Group on Facebook!

RV Flashback:  Centennial Celebration

The RVing Centennial was recently celebrated in Elkhart, IN, the epicenter of RV manufacturing.  There was a really nice video clip of the lively festivities from their local station that we wanted to share, but it is no longer available.  In its place, take a look at this excellent clip that nicely encapsulates the birth and growth of American RVing as we know it today.  Caution before watching:  If you are not an RV owner, you may be inspired to get one and hit the open road!  One other recommendation is the May/June issue of RV Business magazine. There is a great retrospective piece highlighting the pioneers of RVing.

Campground News:  Kid’s Camping Recipes

Ask a kid what there favorite meals are and you’re bound to get at least one of the following:  Mini-burgers, mac and cheese, or french fries.  Good news for camping kids (and adults alike!).  Campfire recipes for all three of these delicious dishes are available at the Camping Cafe website.  Bon appetit!

Pete’s RV Center offers trailer and camper parts and accessories with nationwide delivery via the Parts66.com dealer network.

Be it awnings, hitches, cleaners, or those hard to find electrical and plumbing supplies, we showcase thousands of our RV parts and accessories on Parts66.com. Online ordering is simple and secure with credit card, PayPal, and Google Checkout payment processing options. “I need it now!” shipping options are also available.

Click here to view the Pete’s RV parts and accessories inventory at Parts66.com. Not seeing what you’re looking for? Contact Pete’s RV Store via email or 1.800.639.5093 for further assistance.

Parts66.com online RV Parts Store was created as part of the Route 66 RV Network. Serving thousands of RVers across North America, Route 66 RV Networks provides members with access to discounts and expert service from 150 reputable RV dealerships nationwide.

Whether you are looking for repair, maintenance, or to purchase a motorhome, fifth wheel, travel trailer, pop-up or truck camper, there’s a Route 66 dealer representing nearly every RV brand on the market today. Pete’s RV Center has been in the Route 66 RV Network since 2005.

Including special exclusive offers from Parts66.com, Route 66 RV Network programs provide member discounts on campgrounds, hotels, golf courses, rental cars, RV insurance and more! Per their tagline: Wherever the road takes you…you can count on the Route 66 RV Network.”

More information on membership programs and benefits can be found at the Route 66 RV Network website.

Pete’s RV News

Welcome to our May e-newsletter!  As always we look forward to sharing recent news, events, information and tips with our dedicated community of campers and RVers.

Memorial Day Weekend is here and camping season is underway signaling summertime!  As you can see from the photo, the welcome warmth and sunshine also brings cool treats for the kids visiting us here at the dealership (we leave it up them to decide if mom and dad can have one!).

Here at Pete’s RV, we’ve been scurrying around getting the first wave of campers out for the long weekend.  Business will be steady now through Labor Day with another big rush right before the Fourth of July.

Speaking of scurrying around;  this month’s employee spotlight is on Lot Supervisor, Leo Duncan.  During busy season, hunting down, prepping, and moving hundreds of trailers on and off our lot is no easy task.  Leo handles it all in stride and logs several miles a day walking the lot and service area.  Keeping track of his mileage with a pedometer, his biggest day to date is 12 miles!

We hope you enjoy this edition of Pete’s RV eNewsletter and welcome your feedback.  Please tell us what’s great about it as well as suggestions on how we can make it even better.

Thanks for thinking Pete’s RV!

Recent Pete’s RV Bloglines

Customers Throughout Northeast U.S. and Canada Travel to Pete’s RV!

Pete’s Video pReView: Outback Sydney 320FDB Fifth Wheel

Pete’s RV Talks Inventory Management with “RV Executive Today”

Keystone RV’s Helium Technology Not Light on Features!

Product News:  Thinking Outside the Floorplan

There’s no doubt RV buyers zero in on specific floorplans when shopping for their new travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers or park models.  As dealers, we see this firsthand when analyzing sales data.  So why don’t we just stock up on the most popular ones?  Beyond the traditional bunkhouse or front bedroom layout, there are some truly innovative and well-planned floorplan options that we like to showcase at the dealership and on our website.  The Passport 3050BH, Outback Sydney 325FRE, Outback 301BQ, and Montana 3465SA shown above are just a few gems from Keystone RV to get you “thinking outside the floorplan”.

April Top Views on Pete’s RV Website

1. Cougar 302RLS Fifth Wheel
2. Montana 3750FL Fifth Wheel
3. Cougar 293SAB Fifth Wheel
4. Outback 250RS Travel Trailer
5. Outback 260FL Travel Trailer

Honorable Mention:  Outback Sydney 320FDB Fifth Wheel

Pete’s RV Store Feature:   Summer Sales Flier

Front page items in the Pete’s RV Parts and Accessories Store summer sales flier includes the Sony Rearview Monitoring System, Equal-i-zer Sway Control Hitch and RV Bumper Bike Carriers from Madison Corporation. Eye-catching store product of the month is the CarryOut MP1 Portable Satellite Antenna from Winegard.  With carry case and easy setup, you’ll be tuned into the game or favorite show in no time.  Stows nicely too!

This month’s Pete’s RV Store Gift Card drawing winner is Al R. from W.Rutland, VT.  Congrats!

RV Service Tips:  Determining Tow Ratings

Getting an accurate tow rating requires some research on your vehicle and the travel trailer or fifth wheel you are looking to buy.  Going this route versus an approximation helps ensure the safety of your family and mechanical health of your vehicle.  Here are a few key terms to become familiar with when determining tow rating:

CGWR (Combined Gross Weight Rating) - This is the combined gross weight rating. It is the maximum allowable weight your vehicle, with cargo and passengers, and a trailer can weigh.  The CGWR can be found labeled on the inside of the driver’s side door.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) - The maximum permissible weight of the trailer when fully loaded.  It includes the maximum allowable weight at the
trailer axle(s) plus the hitch (tongue/pin) weight.  The GVWR is typically found labeled in pounds and kilograms on the driver’s side towards the front of a trailer.
UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight) - The weight of a trailer as manufactured at the factory.  Also known as “dry” or “shipping” weight.  It includes all weight at a trailer’s axle(s) and hitch.
CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity) - US-Equal is GVWR minus the UVW and LP gas weight (Water is considered a component of cargo).  Canada-Equal is GVWR minus the UVW, full fresh (potable) water weight (including the water heater) and full LP gas weight.  CCC information can be found labeled on the trailer in the same area as the GVWR.

To be completely accurate, there are several more factors involved when determining tow rating.  However, basic logic tells you if CGWR is less than the UVW, and especially the GVWR, it’s a sound bet your vehicle is not suited to tow the RV you want to buy.

Along with reviewing your towing vehicle owner’s manual, chapter 3 of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual does a nice job explaining load limits and towing considerations.  A PDF version of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual is available on the Pete’s RV website.

RV Q and A:  Special License for Motorhomes

Question: Are you required to get a special license to drive a class A motorhome?

Answer: Federal regulations state that a commercial driver’s license is not required for vehicles up to 26,000 pounds.  In combination with federal regulations, some states do require special non-commercial licenses for vehicles (may even include travel trailers and fifth wheels) greater than 10,000 pounds or 45 feet in length.  Check with your local department of motor vehicles to confirm special requirements or exemptions.

Customer Feedback

“Let everyone at Pete’s RV know that we really do appreciate your service after the sale. That’s rare these days. Thanks again.”–Frank V. from Cape Coral, FL

Read more testimonials about Pete’s RV Center!

Pete’s RV Facebook Update

Phil Still MIA - Since nobody could find my photo in last month’s “Find Phil” contest, we’ll give it another go.  All you need to do is find my mug shot shown here on the left.  Hint: I am within the unit pictures of a specific NEW Outback RV. When you find me, send a message to our Pete’s RV Facebook Profile (don’t give away your answer and post it on our Wall!).  Include the Outback model and stock number you found me.  In June, I’ll pick one winner to receive a $100.00 Gift Card to the Pete’s RV Store. Good luck!

Share Your Camping Pics - With the 2010 camping season underway, we’re looking for Facebook friends to share a picture of the family hanging out around the RV at a favorite camping spot.  Post your photo and comment and/or park recommendation at the Pete’s RV GoRVing Group on Facebook!

RV Flashback:  The RV World of 1937

This vintage news reel distributed by Chevrolet reports on the growth of the RV world back in 1937.  It gives viewers a glimpse at the mobile residences of Trailer City, FL.  Park and hook up fees back then were $1.00 per week and $0.25 per day for electricity.  Not bad at all considering it was beachfront camping!

You can watch this interesting video clip and many others on the Pete’s RV YouTube Channel!

Campground News:   Best Mini Golf Courses

Along with camping, hot dogs and mosquitoes, mini golf ranks high on the “all things summer” list.  There’s nothing better than a family night out putting your way through castles, waterfalls and windmills.  A hole in one (or twenty shots, for that matter) awaits you at each tee.  And when the last ball disappears for good into the depths of the 18th hole, everybody shares match highlights over ice cream cones.  Good times, indeed!

RVParks.com posted a recent article on the best mini golf courses.  Mayday Golf in Myrtle Beach, SC is on the top of their list.  The theme of Mayday is a crash-landing on a tropical island.  You need to play your way through “Mayday Mountain” and “Rescue Falls” to find your way back to civilization.  Sounds like fun!

Go to RVParks.com’s Best Mini Golf Course article to find out what other places made their list!

Thanks to the boundless reach of the internet, the word is out about Pete’s RV Center’s excellent reputation for RV sales and service (extra thanks to Google, Bing and Yahoo search engines).

So much so, customers are traveling from near and far to the RV dealership to pick up their new Keystone RV fifth wheels, travel trailers and toy haulers.  In large demand, used RVs and class A motorhomes are also a big draw.

Along with getting the best deal, traveling to our Vermont RV dealership makes for a nice getaway and scenic ride from northern New York and other New England states; Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Maine, and New Hampshire.

Canadian customers from the provinces of Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario are also making the trek to Pete’s RV Center.

Whether traveling from Laval, QC, Nashua, NH, or Montpelier, VT, we put the welcome mat out for every customer, ensuring their RV buying experience goes as smoothly as possible.

So who is our farthest “local” customer?  To date, the Parsons family from St. John, Newfoundland journeyed 2380 kilometers (1479 miles) for their new Cougar Fifth Wheel.  Check out the route above that took them across 3 states, 3 provinces and an 8 hour ferry ride!

More RV purchasing info for Canadian customers can be found on our website.  Burlington, VT area visitor information is available at the Lake Champlain Chamber of Commerce.

Pete’s RV News

Welcome to our April e-newsletter!  As always we look forward to sharing recent news, events, information and tips with our dedicated community of campers and RVers.

All it took was the first sunny, warm weekend in the northeast to get everybody excited about the new camping season!  The Pete’s RV Service Team is in high gear prepping new units and making repairs or providing maintenance on customer trailers and motorhomes.  You can catch a glimpse of the service area and team in action on the Pete’s RV YouTube Channel–plus a bunch of other “favorited” video clips from Keystone RV Brands, Equal-i-zer Hitches and new Go RVing television ads.

We are delighted to announce that Devra Metevier was named manager of the Pete’s RV Parts and Accessories Store.  Devra’s been with us for six years, starting as a service technician and working her way up to a position with many “moving parts”.  On any given day you’ll find Devra in the store, at the service desk, on the phone, and yes, even driving the forklift!

We hope you enjoy this edition of Pete’s RV eNewsletter and welcome your feedback.  Please tell us what’s great about it as well as suggestions on how we can make it even better.

Thanks for thinking Pete’s RV!

Recent Pete’s RV Bloglines

Pete’s RV Chimes in on 2010 Camping Upswing in VT

RV Buyer FYI: Rebound in 2010 RV Sales Hampers Deliveries

Pete’s RV Does Double-Duty, Hits Two RV Shows on Same Weekend

Product News:  Extended Delivery Dates, New Interior Color Option for Outback

Expect longer delivery times: With the sharp increase in demand for new RVs this year, there is a production bottleneck and shortage of drivers to deliver new units to dealers nationwide.  As we mentioned in a recent blog post, manufacturers and dealers are working hard to resolve this issue, but please be prepared to wait 6-8 weeks when ordering an RV.  If you are looking to be camping this spring in a new RV,  we recommend shopping in stock items on our website or visiting the dealership.

The Outback RV line offers Moonlight Interior Decor Option: “Moonlight” is an available interior option on Outback RV models.  The others are Russet (Brown) and Havana (Green).  As shown in photos of this 301BQ, Moonlight blends blues and other earthy tones whose accents compliment nicely with interior cabinetry, trim and light fixtures.

March Top Views on Pete’s RV Website

1.  Montana 3750FL Fifth Wheel
2.  Cougar 293SAB Fifth Wheel
3.  Outback 250RS Travel Trailer
4.  Outback 301BQ Travel Trailer
5.  Outback 210RS Travel Trailer
Honorable Mention: Cougar 322QBS Fifth Wheel

Pete’s RV Store Feature:   Spring Sales Flier

Spring is sprung!  Time to get your RV prepped for camping season!  Pete’s RV Parts and Accessories Store has everything you need to get the job done.  Timely specials in April’s Sale Filer include 5-piece cleaning kits, deep cycle batteries, replacement lights and vent covers.  It’s also a great time to retire any severely aged camp chairs.  Nothing is more embarrassing than one giving out under you while sitting around the campfire!

Pete’s RV Facebook “Find Phil!” Contest

Find This Pic on Pete's RV Website!

You’re probably familiar with “Where’s Waldo?”.  “Find Phil!” is similar, but instead of a book, I’m going to use our website.  With the hundreds of pictures I take of our new RVs, I thought it would be fun to hide a photo of myself amongst our website unit pictures and see if our Facebook friends can find it!

If you do, send me a message to our Pete’s RV Facebook profile (don’t give away your answer and post it on our Wall!).  Include the name and model of the 2010 travel trailer or fifth wheel you found my picture.  At the end of April, I’ll pick one winner to receive a $100.00 Gift Card to the Pete’s RV Store.  Good luck!

Congrats to last month’s “What Is It?” winner was Terry N. from Burlington, VT.  “It” was a Hot Dog Rotor.

RV Service Tips:  5 Spring Preparation Reminders

1.  Remove protective coverings and tape from all vents and exterior openings used to keep out rodents and insects.

2.  Look for rodent and rodent intrusion.  Remove traps and other deterrents.

3.  Check thoroughly for leaks and possible water damage.

4.  Examine all seams and sealants (and condition of any previously repaired areas.

5.  Test smoke, LP gas leak and carbon monoxide alarms.  Replace batteries if necessary.

This is just a few of the many checklist items when preparing your RV.  For a complete list and further instruction, we recommend the valuable resources found at RV University.

RV Q and A:  Battery Types

Question: What is the difference between a regular car battery and deep cycle battery?

Answer: A car battery is designed to provide a surge of electrical current over a short duration while a deep cycle battery provides a steady current over a longer period of time (allowing the use of lights and other electrical amenities in RVs and boats).  Chemically similar, they are both classified as lead-acid batteries, but deep cycle batteries contain thicker plates.  This allows them to be discharged much more frequently than a car battery, which is ruined very quickly under these conditions.  Furthermore, a deep cycle battery has lesser cold-cranking amps, but higher reserve capacity.  It likely won’t start a vehicle in sub-freezing temperatures, but can maintain higher amperage two or three times longer than a standard car battery.

Customer Feedback

“…Anyway this whole event has been a dream come true for my husband and myself and we have you [Joe] to thank for that.  I really can’t believe our good fortune to get you the day we called Pete’s RV.  From the start you were kind, personable, and honest.  It was evident that you wanted to help us find what we were looking for and you definitely did that and a lot more. Simple words like, “thank you” just do not seem to be enough.  When we do start traveling we will be stopping by to meet you and thank you in person!”–Frank and Michelle V. from Crescent City, CA

Read more about what customers have to say about Pete’s RV Center!

RV Flashback:  1974 VW Beetle and Fifth Wheel

This is vintage stuff!  A “fifth wheel” customized for a VW Beetle.  The floorplan included a full bathroom, kitchen sink. stove, and room for four.  What really made this neat was the 360 degree turning radius (and I thought Keystone’s Max-Turn fifth wheels were good!).  To fully appreciate this, you need to check out the video on YouTube.

Campground Recipe:  Barbecued Rattlesnake (yes..this is genuine!)

Northwest River Park - Chesapeake, VA (from Woodall’s Family Camping)

We have rattlesnake barbecues here for the park staff every once in a while! Our park is 763 acres and is filled with many trails for horseback riding and hiking. We also have fishing, canoeing and row boating, along with an amphitheater for our campers’ enjoyment.

Ingredients
1 rattlesnake, freshly skinned, head removed, 4′ or longer. Barbecue sauce. Salt & pepper to taste.

Directions
Cut snake into 4-6 in. sections. Marinate snake in barbecue sauce several hours. Wrap sections in tinfoil and barbecue over charcoal for 45 minutes. To keep meat from drying out, baste with barbecue sauce every 10 min.