Rosemary Mancillas, Country Coach Magna owner, authored this article in 2005. As it is full of common sense maintenance info, I am happy to share it here in the blogspot.
Fulltimer's Primer, Part 2
ENGINE-There is no mystery to the maintenance on these Detroit, CAT or Cummins engines or the Allison transmissions. Just like a car, they need regular oil changes and lubrication. There are mileage related issues involving valve adjustments, fluid and filter changes, maintenance intervals for your engines that can be accessed in your engine manual or online from the manufacturer--some specific to RV usage. My Magna has a "homing" device that causes an annual spring migration to the Country Coach Factory Service Facility in Junction City, OR. I know my limitations and I rely on wonderful technicians at the factory and at rallies to work with me to keep my Magna running relatively problem free for another year. I appreciate this preventative maintenance and keeping an eye out for potential problems.
So far so good! I try to remain knowledgeable of scheduled maintenance items that need to be done so I know what to request of service. I have a maintenance info sheet for the engine (specific to an RV from CAT) and I keep track of when fluids need to be changed and other items needing inspection or adjustments. If I don't know what something is--I ask. The bottom line is there is nothing like a great technician who knows his way around the engine and the chassis and who will look things over carefully to prevent possible problems.
I also highly recommend joining other "Class Reunion" rally in Oregon and attending seminars given about the coach and its components. You can never know enough. Some very knowledgeable owners and Country Coach writers wrote excellent articles in previous magazine issues. (Note: Although the days of Class Reunion Rallies are past, the annual Country Coach Friends Inc Friendship Rally is similar to the flavor of that Class Reunion format. Technical seminars are presented by several seasonsed highline service technicians, vendors like Carr Industries, Dickman Tire Center, and more.)
CHASSIS-The chassis is complicated because it involves so many components from mechanical to hydraulic to electrical to cosmetic. Some are common sense like spraying moving fricitional parts with WD-40 or some other lubricating, cleaning material. I have learned by experience what spare parts to carry with me on the road. By far the most space in my bays is taken up with cleaning materials, spare parts, tools, fluids and lubricrants.
I live full time in my Magna and travel around the country so I do not have easy access to a home base to keep items I might need. Extra fluids and light bulbs are a no-brainer, but I do carry an extra engine serpentine belt, spare ride height valves, lug nut covers, Onan generator maintenance items, some bay door gas springs, ligth fixtures, cabinet catches, exterior lens covers that seem to disappear, some miscellaneous hardware, tools, silicone and a variety of glue. Yes, I do have a rechargeable drill with interchangeable accessories that I use on occasion. I had to learn the difference between a machine screw and a wood screw. I am building a collection. Instead of a "button jar" or thimbles, I have a "screw jar." It's like cooking; I hate not having something handy that I need, so my cabinet is full of spices I might use once a year.
I made sure my owner's manual and chassis manuals are in a cabinet that is easily accessible in a pinch, not buried in the bay somewhere should I need to find them on the shoulder of a two-lane highway in the pouring rain. I guess I would have made a good Boy Scout "always prepared." I often wonder how on earth some folks have room for a TV cabinet and poker table, freezer and ping pong table in event these big Country Coach basements. They must not be full-timers and only travel 60 miles from home base.
Here is a "quick and dirty" list of critical maintenance issues.
1) Hydraulic Fluid needs to be checked carefully when "hot" (operating temperature) engine "off" with a clean rag or paper towel. Hydraulic fluid and filter should be changed every two years or 25,000 miles.
2) Wet Cell Batteries-Check water level at least once a month. More often if dry camping. Read the specific recommendations and directions for "equalizing" batteries to extend their life. Some people swear by this. I personally have not equalized my batteries and have not had any problems. (AGM or Lifeline batteries do not need fluid adde as they are sealed. They are recommended for the "house" but not engine cranking. Check with Lifeline about their recommendations for equalizing.) Wet cells typically last three to four years and Lifelines are guaranteed for five years.
3) Check Coolant Level-Be sure to add the SAME type of coolant (and 50/50 mix with distilled or de-ionized water only.) There are four types of coolants and they come in many colors. Read your label carefully. Standard coolant and Extended Life coolant should NEVER be mixed. (Coolant issues were covered in great detail in a previous article in the Destinations magazine by James Sonntag-Summer and Autumn 2004 issues.) Standard coolant needs to be tested for coolant additives (SCAs or DCAs) concentration and may need to be "recharged" with a supplemental coolant additive or filter replacement to prevent corrosion, mineral deposits and other damage. Check the coolant level in the generator as well.
4)Extended Life Coolant (ELC) has different requirements but needs to be tested once a year. Do NOT mix coolant types!
5) Check the Water Separator on the primary fuel filter for water contamination. Empty the water contaminated fuel out through the valve on the bottom and dispose of it appropriately.
6) Check Air Filter Indicator to see if the air filter needs replacement or is becoming blocked with dust. Reset the indicator and recheck after driving to be sure the reading is consistent.
7) Change Engine Thermostat every two to three years.
8) Caterpillar engines like my C-10-Change Engine Oil and Filter every 15,000 miles or one year. (Cummins has different requirements depending on the engine model. Check your Cummins manual.) If you are going to park the motorhome for a season, get the oild changed first!
9) Lubrication of zerk fittings and driveline universal joints and slip-joint every 5,000 miles or one year.
10) Transmission - Per Allison's recommendations: DEXRON III fluid and filters need replacing initially at 5,000 miles then 25,000 miles or two years. Allison's Transynd synthetic fluid needs only the filter replaced after 75,000 miles or three years, fluid and filter replacement in four years or 150,000 mile. (This schedule applies if the transmission was flushed thoroughly before changing to Transynd so there is little residue from the Dexron fluid.) (NOTE: Per Country Coach manufacturing engineering department, the following recommendations apply. Dexron III - Main filter only to be changed initially at 5,000 miles, thereafter fluid and both filters at 12 months or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. This applies for both 30000MH and 40000MH model transmissions, shallow or deep sump. Transynd - Main filter only to be changed initially at 5,000 miles. Beyond initial 5,000 mile service, the requirements are as follows: a) 3000MH (ahallow or deep sump)-Change filters at 36 months or 75,000 miles, whichever comes first. Fluid to be changed at 48 months or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. b) 4000MH deep sump-filters to be changed at 24 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Fluid to be changed at 48 months or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. These previous service recommendations apply to non-retarder models.)
11) Keep Radiator Fins Clean to maintain an efficient, cool engine! Use air or a low pressure washer, steam and a degreaser. (No water in the "breather!")
... To Be Continued..........Chassis list, items 12-17, to follow in the next installment, along with other information.
Monday, May 13, 2013
Monday, May 6, 2013
Full Timer's Primer on Coach Maintenance, Part 1
Guest Post Authored by Rosemary Mancillas, Magna owner and one of the many Country Coach owners I call "friend". The following article was originally printed in the former Country Coach, LLC magazine in 2005. Thanks, Rosemary for writing such a wonderful resource.
A Full Timer's Maintenance Primer, Part 1 by Rosemary Mancillas
I hate housework. I don't like turning a screwdriver or using a drill. I am not into building things or breaking them down, unless it is the written word. I hat oil, grease and battery acid. These are all good reasons to have a spouse-right? (Smile...we all have to have a purpose in life.) Some of my friends are nodding their heads right now because they have been trying to encourage me to "find someone." I am a widow for 12 years now and I have one "man" in my life (my poodle Sasha) and he would not appreciate sharing my attention with another male. But after three years of full timing in my 2000 Magna there are a lot of things I have learned from experience, reading and numerous seminars at Country Coach rallies that I will share with you here.
Just like a stationary home, prevention can save you beaucoup bucks. "Time is money"--the more time you spend on maintenance and attention to the big and little things, the less money you will have to spend in the long run. (That is the theory anyway.) I must admit that my initial expectations for maintenance costs were much lower than the reality. I have learned over the years that "you get what you pay for." I prefer not to skimp on preventative maintenance and I am not a "do-it-yourselfer."
Maintenance can be broken down in several categories-dialy, pre-flight (before a trip), and regular chassis and engine requirements.
I live fulltime in and drive a 2000 Magna. The newer coaches will have some differences; however overall maintenance is fundamentally the same. (I make no claims to the completeness or accuracy of these brief recommendations, since there are variations from model to model and year to year. If in doubt, read your manuals for your particular details or contact the vendor.) If all else fails, take the coach to a professional. I find my way back "home" to Junction City once a year to let Country Coach technicians and CAT technicians do important repairs and chassis maintenance. I do not trust just anyone to touch my coach. They are always my first choice for repairs if I am not across the country somewhere. Otherwise I rely on other owners for service center recommendations....There are also the Cummins Coach Care service centers in various locations around the country. Individual vendors will have factory service reps they can refer you to and are usually very good at troubleshooting problems, saving time and money.
Daily (parked) or "Pre-flight" Checks:
Since I have not one to divide my labor with, I have to spend much more time on pre-flight maintenance and it takes me longer to get on the road. But I just picture some catastrophic failure when I am tempted to skip something and I twist my own arm to leave late if I have to or stop sooner. There is a lot to cover, so some of these items will be very brief. Some might be "old news" to experienced drivers, but some may just need a refresher. If you have a SilverLeaf that monitors many of these things, it still might be safe to check the "old way" on occasion.
It pays to keep a watchful eye on your gauges--the inverter/charger, leveling system and electrical panels as well as the tanks, watching for anything that is out of the normal or safe readings.
1) When parked or at a rest stop, look to see if there are any leaking fluids under the wheels, engine or chassis and examine the tires (tow car connections and tires, too).
2) When your day of traveling is over, check your transmission fluid level with engine running and coach level. There is a simple procedure using the transmission shifter panel, simply press both arrow keys together twice to get a readout on the display showing that the oil level is "ok," or hi/lo followed by a number in quarts.
3) Also at the end of the day's drive, it is recommended to purge air for about 10 seconds so moisture will be removed from the air system. This will reduce the risk of damage to braking/suspension valves and airbags from freezing moisture in the system. A large piece of clean paper laid on dry ground beneath your purge valves will show up any moisture that is expelled. The purge valves are located behind the front bumper on the passenger or driver side.
4) Check your brake and turning lights on the coach and on the towed vehicle. Tow connection contacts may need cleaning. If the brake and turning lights have removable lenses, take them off and clean them every now and again. You will discover burned out bulbs and dirt that makes the lights dim.
5) Check the hub oil level on your front and tag axle before driving.
6) Check the engine oil on a regular basis just like a car. (I have never needed to add oil, but I do carry it.) Make sure the coach is level. Check the oil level with the engine "off." Hot engine: Wait at least 10 minutes after shutdown. Cold engine: Check it before you start the engine.
7) Do a visual check of the engine serpentine belt. Check to see the "belt tensioner" is in the "green' and make sure the belt is tight, not frayed or damaged.
8) Do a visual check of hoses and clamps for leaks. (Hint: Change all your standard worm style hose clamps to spring tensioned hose clamps.) **I will pause here for a public service announcement. Impress your friends and co-RVers in those maintenance seminars and most of all impress your technicians--Read Your Manual for specific detailed information, schedules for chassis or engine maintenance and correct fluids to be using. Believe me, after you have read it about 10 times, I guarantee you still won't remember it all, but you will know where to look for important infomation in a hurry. I use neon "Post-It" notes to mark important pages and I write the topic on the note sticking out to find it more easily. On more than one occasion a knowledgeable technician udes the schematics to make the repairs. I saved time and money by being able to lay hands on the schematics that were needed.
Tires:
I think tires require the most vigilance of all maintenance items. On most of the new tag axle motorhomes, weight is not usually an issue. But on older single rear axle models, your fully loaded weight has much to do with tire safety.
Learn about weight issues!
1) Have your coach weighed on all four corners if possible and get the axle weight specs and obtain the tire specs from your tire manufacturer, use the formula to determine the correct air pressure for your tires under those loads. I will not go into detail here because there are worksheets available from the tire manufacturers for determining the correct air pressure. You just have to plug in the values and do the math. Although you previously heard recommendations to have your coach weighed on all four corners to get an axle weight, then to obtain the tire specs from your tire manufacturer, and using a set formula to determine correct air pressure for your tires under these loads, I recently consulted the team at Country Coach on the subject. I learned that this practice above which is called 'air to weight' is no longer recommended by the tire manufacturers or Country Coach. The current recommendation is 'air to placard' which means airing the tires to the pressures indicated on the federal tire tag inside the coach. However, weight still is a pertinent issue so you do not exceed the axle rating of the motorhome.
Another important rating stamped on your tires, that many owners are not aware of is the "maximum speed" rating. It more than likely says 65 mph. Excessive speed can contribute to tire failure and apparently reduces the "tire load carrying capacity." So the next time I see one of you passing me at 75 and 80 mph on Interstate 10, I will assume you did not read my article and warning. It is really worth risking a blow-out at 80 mph and being responsible for harming yourself and some innocent travelers on the road? Slow down and enjoy the ride. You have precious cargo. Faster drivers have the use of the left passing lane to go around you.
2) Check tire pressures every day you are driving. Tires should be "cold." (67 degrees ambient temperature is the benchmark for your "ideal" required air pressure.) For every ten degree drop in air temperature, tires lose a pound of pressure and vice versa. Keep the same air pressure across the axle and equal air pressure on duals. I have a "SmarTire" system that monitors the tires, but I still like to check them occasionally against a gauge to be sure it is reading correctly. I do recommend a tire monitoring system for peace of mind. Tire blowouts are not fun hurtling down the highway at 65 mph with the momentum of a 40,000+lb. motorhome. The newer systems can also monitor your towed vehicle.
3) Protect tires from deterioration, dry rot and sun damage while parked for any length of time. When driving, additives in the rubber are released that help protect them, but when parked it is necessary to cover them with vinyl tire covers as well as UV treatments like "Aerospace 303." Sitting in water for long periods of time can also cause deterioration. (Do not use any petroleum based surface treatment products.) I had to order custom sized tire covers, but I figure my safety was worth the expense. It is foolish to use cheaper covers that leave three inches of tire exposed to sunlight. Russian roulette anyone? Always keep your tires properly inflated when parked for longer periods of time.
HINT: "303" is also recommended for a roof protection treatment and all the external (exposed to sunlight) rubber gaskets on the motorhome slides, etc. Some people also recommend talcum powder on the slide gasket. I guess that will work when in storage, but not so well on the road.
I spoke with one wonder who purchased a used coach that the previous owner swore was stored inside a hangar (in the sunny southwest) and they had three blowouts on their initial trip, while their granddaughter was in the motorhome. 'Nuf said?
4) Check into having your tires "siped" by a reputable (truck) tire dealer that has a siping machine. Truckers do it for additional traction on slippery, wet surfaces. It involves adding additional "cuts" in a tire to give more area for water to be displaced. Les Schwab Tires/Bob Dickman Tire Center in Junction CIty installs SmarTire and does siping.
It is not recommended that you use valve extenders on your dual tire valves. They can vibrate loose or a failed O ring can leak air causing under-inflation, overheating, and tire failure. One tire rep thought they might have caused most of the blowouts he saw on inside duals with extenders. An alternative is a screw-on "ball-spring or flow-through valve cap" (truckers use them too) and a Haltec straight line air gauge and air chuck. Talk to Les Schwab, they have theirs or can direct you to the manufacturer.
5) Tires should be replaced when they approach five years of age regardless of tread depth. Period.
6) Tires can be rotated from side to side and also inside out. 20,000 miles was one recommendation.
7) Tire alignment needs to be checked by a recommended specialty shop if you have made changes in your load, had suspension work done, or notice uneven tire wear.....
TO BE CONTINUED IN ANOTHER POST.
A Full Timer's Maintenance Primer, Part 1 by Rosemary Mancillas
I hate housework. I don't like turning a screwdriver or using a drill. I am not into building things or breaking them down, unless it is the written word. I hat oil, grease and battery acid. These are all good reasons to have a spouse-right? (Smile...we all have to have a purpose in life.) Some of my friends are nodding their heads right now because they have been trying to encourage me to "find someone." I am a widow for 12 years now and I have one "man" in my life (my poodle Sasha) and he would not appreciate sharing my attention with another male. But after three years of full timing in my 2000 Magna there are a lot of things I have learned from experience, reading and numerous seminars at Country Coach rallies that I will share with you here.
Just like a stationary home, prevention can save you beaucoup bucks. "Time is money"--the more time you spend on maintenance and attention to the big and little things, the less money you will have to spend in the long run. (That is the theory anyway.) I must admit that my initial expectations for maintenance costs were much lower than the reality. I have learned over the years that "you get what you pay for." I prefer not to skimp on preventative maintenance and I am not a "do-it-yourselfer."
Maintenance can be broken down in several categories-dialy, pre-flight (before a trip), and regular chassis and engine requirements.
I live fulltime in and drive a 2000 Magna. The newer coaches will have some differences; however overall maintenance is fundamentally the same. (I make no claims to the completeness or accuracy of these brief recommendations, since there are variations from model to model and year to year. If in doubt, read your manuals for your particular details or contact the vendor.) If all else fails, take the coach to a professional. I find my way back "home" to Junction City once a year to let Country Coach technicians and CAT technicians do important repairs and chassis maintenance. I do not trust just anyone to touch my coach. They are always my first choice for repairs if I am not across the country somewhere. Otherwise I rely on other owners for service center recommendations....There are also the Cummins Coach Care service centers in various locations around the country. Individual vendors will have factory service reps they can refer you to and are usually very good at troubleshooting problems, saving time and money.
Daily (parked) or "Pre-flight" Checks:
Since I have not one to divide my labor with, I have to spend much more time on pre-flight maintenance and it takes me longer to get on the road. But I just picture some catastrophic failure when I am tempted to skip something and I twist my own arm to leave late if I have to or stop sooner. There is a lot to cover, so some of these items will be very brief. Some might be "old news" to experienced drivers, but some may just need a refresher. If you have a SilverLeaf that monitors many of these things, it still might be safe to check the "old way" on occasion.
It pays to keep a watchful eye on your gauges--the inverter/charger, leveling system and electrical panels as well as the tanks, watching for anything that is out of the normal or safe readings.
1) When parked or at a rest stop, look to see if there are any leaking fluids under the wheels, engine or chassis and examine the tires (tow car connections and tires, too).
2) When your day of traveling is over, check your transmission fluid level with engine running and coach level. There is a simple procedure using the transmission shifter panel, simply press both arrow keys together twice to get a readout on the display showing that the oil level is "ok," or hi/lo followed by a number in quarts.
3) Also at the end of the day's drive, it is recommended to purge air for about 10 seconds so moisture will be removed from the air system. This will reduce the risk of damage to braking/suspension valves and airbags from freezing moisture in the system. A large piece of clean paper laid on dry ground beneath your purge valves will show up any moisture that is expelled. The purge valves are located behind the front bumper on the passenger or driver side.
4) Check your brake and turning lights on the coach and on the towed vehicle. Tow connection contacts may need cleaning. If the brake and turning lights have removable lenses, take them off and clean them every now and again. You will discover burned out bulbs and dirt that makes the lights dim.
5) Check the hub oil level on your front and tag axle before driving.
6) Check the engine oil on a regular basis just like a car. (I have never needed to add oil, but I do carry it.) Make sure the coach is level. Check the oil level with the engine "off." Hot engine: Wait at least 10 minutes after shutdown. Cold engine: Check it before you start the engine.
7) Do a visual check of the engine serpentine belt. Check to see the "belt tensioner" is in the "green' and make sure the belt is tight, not frayed or damaged.
8) Do a visual check of hoses and clamps for leaks. (Hint: Change all your standard worm style hose clamps to spring tensioned hose clamps.) **I will pause here for a public service announcement. Impress your friends and co-RVers in those maintenance seminars and most of all impress your technicians--Read Your Manual for specific detailed information, schedules for chassis or engine maintenance and correct fluids to be using. Believe me, after you have read it about 10 times, I guarantee you still won't remember it all, but you will know where to look for important infomation in a hurry. I use neon "Post-It" notes to mark important pages and I write the topic on the note sticking out to find it more easily. On more than one occasion a knowledgeable technician udes the schematics to make the repairs. I saved time and money by being able to lay hands on the schematics that were needed.
Tires:
I think tires require the most vigilance of all maintenance items. On most of the new tag axle motorhomes, weight is not usually an issue. But on older single rear axle models, your fully loaded weight has much to do with tire safety.
Learn about weight issues!
1) Have your coach weighed on all four corners if possible and get the axle weight specs and obtain the tire specs from your tire manufacturer, use the formula to determine the correct air pressure for your tires under those loads. I will not go into detail here because there are worksheets available from the tire manufacturers for determining the correct air pressure. You just have to plug in the values and do the math. Although you previously heard recommendations to have your coach weighed on all four corners to get an axle weight, then to obtain the tire specs from your tire manufacturer, and using a set formula to determine correct air pressure for your tires under these loads, I recently consulted the team at Country Coach on the subject. I learned that this practice above which is called 'air to weight' is no longer recommended by the tire manufacturers or Country Coach. The current recommendation is 'air to placard' which means airing the tires to the pressures indicated on the federal tire tag inside the coach. However, weight still is a pertinent issue so you do not exceed the axle rating of the motorhome.
Another important rating stamped on your tires, that many owners are not aware of is the "maximum speed" rating. It more than likely says 65 mph. Excessive speed can contribute to tire failure and apparently reduces the "tire load carrying capacity." So the next time I see one of you passing me at 75 and 80 mph on Interstate 10, I will assume you did not read my article and warning. It is really worth risking a blow-out at 80 mph and being responsible for harming yourself and some innocent travelers on the road? Slow down and enjoy the ride. You have precious cargo. Faster drivers have the use of the left passing lane to go around you.
2) Check tire pressures every day you are driving. Tires should be "cold." (67 degrees ambient temperature is the benchmark for your "ideal" required air pressure.) For every ten degree drop in air temperature, tires lose a pound of pressure and vice versa. Keep the same air pressure across the axle and equal air pressure on duals. I have a "SmarTire" system that monitors the tires, but I still like to check them occasionally against a gauge to be sure it is reading correctly. I do recommend a tire monitoring system for peace of mind. Tire blowouts are not fun hurtling down the highway at 65 mph with the momentum of a 40,000+lb. motorhome. The newer systems can also monitor your towed vehicle.
3) Protect tires from deterioration, dry rot and sun damage while parked for any length of time. When driving, additives in the rubber are released that help protect them, but when parked it is necessary to cover them with vinyl tire covers as well as UV treatments like "Aerospace 303." Sitting in water for long periods of time can also cause deterioration. (Do not use any petroleum based surface treatment products.) I had to order custom sized tire covers, but I figure my safety was worth the expense. It is foolish to use cheaper covers that leave three inches of tire exposed to sunlight. Russian roulette anyone? Always keep your tires properly inflated when parked for longer periods of time.
HINT: "303" is also recommended for a roof protection treatment and all the external (exposed to sunlight) rubber gaskets on the motorhome slides, etc. Some people also recommend talcum powder on the slide gasket. I guess that will work when in storage, but not so well on the road.
I spoke with one wonder who purchased a used coach that the previous owner swore was stored inside a hangar (in the sunny southwest) and they had three blowouts on their initial trip, while their granddaughter was in the motorhome. 'Nuf said?
4) Check into having your tires "siped" by a reputable (truck) tire dealer that has a siping machine. Truckers do it for additional traction on slippery, wet surfaces. It involves adding additional "cuts" in a tire to give more area for water to be displaced. Les Schwab Tires/Bob Dickman Tire Center in Junction CIty installs SmarTire and does siping.
It is not recommended that you use valve extenders on your dual tire valves. They can vibrate loose or a failed O ring can leak air causing under-inflation, overheating, and tire failure. One tire rep thought they might have caused most of the blowouts he saw on inside duals with extenders. An alternative is a screw-on "ball-spring or flow-through valve cap" (truckers use them too) and a Haltec straight line air gauge and air chuck. Talk to Les Schwab, they have theirs or can direct you to the manufacturer.
5) Tires should be replaced when they approach five years of age regardless of tread depth. Period.
6) Tires can be rotated from side to side and also inside out. 20,000 miles was one recommendation.
7) Tire alignment needs to be checked by a recommended specialty shop if you have made changes in your load, had suspension work done, or notice uneven tire wear.....
TO BE CONTINUED IN ANOTHER POST.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Oregon Fast Facts, like 750 vineyards produce 70 wine grapes varietals
Discover Oregon and attend a Friendship Rally (www.countrycoachfriendsincorporated.com)! Over
the next few months, I'll be sharing some of the great reasons to
travel to Oregon for leisure and recreation time. Not only is it the
mother lode in terms of exceptional RV technicians, dealers, and RV
related service providers, it is an AMAZING STATE!
Oregon Fast Facts! from www.traveloregon.com
Whether it is your first or tenth trip to Oregon, here are some quick tidbits to help you get to know this spectacular state.
Oregon Fast Facts! from www.traveloregon.com
Whether it is your first or tenth trip to Oregon, here are some quick tidbits to help you get to know this spectacular state.
Did you know:
- Oregon has no sales tax.
- Oregon’s birthday is Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1859.
- Oregon is the 10th largest state in the union, covering 97,073 square miles.
- Oregon is bordered by Washington, Idaho, Nevada, California and the Pacific Ocean.
A State of (Natural) Wonder (a.k.a largest, deepest, richest):
- Crater Lake, at 1,932 feet deep, is the deepest lake in the United States.
- Hells Canyon is the deepest river-carved gorge in North America. At 7,900 feet, it’s deeper than the Grand Canyon.
- The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is one of the richest fossil sites in the world. You would need to travel to Pakistan to find a fossil bed that rivals this one.
- The largest concentration of wintering bald eagles can be found in Klamath Forest National Wildlife Refuge.
- The Malheur Wildlife Refuge is home to the largest freshwater marsh in the U.S.
History and Heritage
- Oregon has four National Historic Trails and 14 National Historic Districts, including our namesake trail that pioneered Western expansion and urged dreamers to “Go West.”
- Oregon has more than 7,000 bridges, including 53 covered bridges.
- Nine historic lighthouses and one light ship dot the Oregon Coast.
- Oregon is home to 10 Native American tribes.
Quirky Tidbits
- Oregon is pronounced OR-UH-GUN, never OR-EE-GONE.
- The Oregon hazelnut is the state’s official nut, and Oregon grows 99 percent of the entire U.S. commercial crop.
- The pear is Oregon’s state fruit, ranking as the top-selling tree fruit crop.
- There are more than 750 vineyards in Oregon, producing more than 70 different varietals of wine grapes.
- Letting an attendant pump your gas is mandatory; you may not pump your own in the state of Oregon.
Geography
Oregon is a state of contrasts, with snow-dusted mountains, dramatic river canyons, lush valleys, rugged coast, arid plains and fertile fields. In fact, Oregon offers some example of every geographic terrain on the planet within its borders.- The highest elevation point is Mt. Hood at 11,239 feet, and the lowest is at sea level.
- There are more than 6,000 lakes and 112,000 miles of rivers and streams.
- Oregon contains more than 5,900 registered campsites along with 230 state parks and 13 national forests.
- Nearly half of Oregon’s total area is forested – close to 30 million acres.
- There are 16 known hot springs in Oregon.
Oregon Pop Culture
- Portlandia. Put a bird on it.
- Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood served as the scenic backdrop for the movie, The Shining.
- One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest was based and filmed in Salem, Ore., where now stands the Museum of Mental Health.
- The Goonies was filmed mostly in Astoria, Ore., with scenic cameo shots from other coastal towns.
- Audience-favorite, Grimm, plays off the natural scenery in Oregon to produce its picturesque, cinematic appeal.
- Portland first gained national attention for its music scene in the 1960s, when The Kingsmen and Paul Revere & the Raiders helped establish the city as a Northwest center for frat and garage pop. Today, all sorts of great local bands are making waves here, including M. Ward, The Decemberists, Horse Feathers, Laura Veirs, Portugal. The Man and Blind Pilot.
- Ken Kesey’s masterful “Sometimes a Great Notion” explores the relationship between Oregon’s landscapes and its psyche.
- Portland’s artists are varied and inspiring: Gus Van Sant, Matt Groening, Chuck Palahniuk, Beverly Cleary, Stephen Malkmus.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
DISCOVER OREGON before and after the 3rd Annual CCFI Friendship Rally
Over the next few months, I'll be sharing some of the great reasons to travel to Oregon for leisure and recreation time. Not only is it the mother lode in terms of exceptional RV technicians, dealers, and RV related service providers, it is an AMAZING STATE!
There is a great rally being planned for August 21-25, the Country Coach Friends 3rd Annual Friendship Rally in Albany, Oregon. Over 300 motorcoach enthusiasts will gather at the Linn County Events Center, just following the Family Motor Coach Association's NW regional rally. It's a great time to come to Oregon: Learm more about rally memories to be made at www.countrycoachfriendsincorporated.com
In the meantime, here are some recreation suggestions for OREGON FUN found at http://traveloregon.com/ask-oregon/
There is a great rally being planned for August 21-25, the Country Coach Friends 3rd Annual Friendship Rally in Albany, Oregon. Over 300 motorcoach enthusiasts will gather at the Linn County Events Center, just following the Family Motor Coach Association's NW regional rally. It's a great time to come to Oregon: Learm more about rally memories to be made at www.countrycoachfriendsincorporated.com
In the meantime, here are some recreation suggestions for OREGON FUN found at http://traveloregon.com/ask-oregon/
Mt. Pisgah in Eugene is a great place to take
dogs and go hiking. For an easier hike, look for the arboretum trails. If the
weather is right there are some creeks in the parking area that a dog could
play in.
Tryon Creek Trail near Portland is dog-friendly
and just friendly, in general.
The coast is very dog-friendly with
lots of hikes and even yurts that pets can stay in with you.
Cape Lookout South Trail near Tillamook is a
great example of the Oregon Coast’s wide array of dog-friendly hiking trails.
Cape Perpetua’s Giant Spruce Trail: This trail is
one of my favorites on the coast.
Eagle Cap Wilderness: Hurricane
Creek near Joseph is a dog-friendly hike in the northeast of Oregon.
This book is a really good reference
for hikes with dogs: http://www.mountaineersbooks.org/Best-Hikes-with-Dogs-Oregon-2nd-Edition-P705.aspx Happy travels! Answered by Cari
Soong, Ask Oregon Outdoor Adventure Expert on March
28th, 2013
We have a day and night
to get from Portland to Eugene, what could we see on our way?
I am the AskOR Willamette Valley expert and I am happy to
give you a few suggestions for enjoying our gorgeous region! If you would
like to wine taste or if you are in to seeing some of the most beautiful
country in the world, take hwy 99W out of Portland south all the way to
Eugene. On your route, enjoy our small towns and villages and know that in each
and every one of them you’ll find something good to drink and delicious local
food to enjoy. You’ll be going right by the Evergreen Aviation & Space
Museum near McMinnville: http://www.evergreenmuseum.org If you
have ever wanted to see the Spruce Goose, this is its home!
Traveling further south along this route, you will come
across my favorite place for local beer and food in Amity, OR at The Blue
Goat Cafe: http://amitybluegoat.com
Corvallis is a bustling town home to Oregon State
University. Take the campus tour if you’d like or take a hike! A favorite Oregon
hiking trail Mc Donald Dunn Forest: http://www.cof.orst.edu/cf/recreation/trails.php I hike here a few times a month and there’s
always something new to see.
In Albany enjoy their darling downtown area before heading
again south on to Eugene again via hwy 99. A few tidbits about Albany… they
happen to boast the most in number and varied styles of historic homes and
buildings in the entire state of Oregon! Worth a stop for some photos of the
gorgeous vintage abodes and a trip to the Albany Carousel Museum and studio
is awesome: http://albanycarousel.com
A few places to dine in Albany:
Well… this is my short list. This could keep you busy far longer
than a day and a night. Hope you enjoy your planning and your trip. Thanks
for your question! Answered by Debbie
Lusk, Ask Oregon Willamette Valley Expert on November
8th, 2012
|
Friday, April 19, 2013
Oregon is Rally Central!
Whether it is meeting with a couple hundred RVers at the Linn
County Fair & Expo Center off the I-5 corridor in the south Willamette
Valley, or enjoying full hookups at the Mill Casino RV Park on the coast, or
attending a huge FMCA or Good Sam event at Bend, Oregon with 2,000 other RVers,
the message is getting out: OREGON is Rally Central! A RV mecca in terms
of highly qualified service specialists, dealers, and RV related services and
suppliers, this is the place to get your RV renovations, service and
maintenance handled. It’s also the place to come when it is time to shop for a
new recreational vehicle. What you may not realize is that you can
arrange for most of these services when attending one of the many rallies and
shows held annually across the state.
I have polled thousands of motorcoachers with rally surveys over
the last couple decades and here’s why they say attend rallies: To meet new
people, to socialize, learn, play games, and have a great time! To spend time
with friends made over the years parked next to me at rallies; to attend
informative seminars about my motorhome, to take classes on everything from
fly-tying to beading and Swedish weaving; to get some RV repairs taken care of
(most times at a special rally discount), to shop for a new RV, to partake of
great evening entertainment and meals; to shop the vendor exhibitors area! Most
RVers note they especially enjoyed the seminars and learning more about their
coach and how to care for it.
Whatever your reason for attending, you are bound to have a
wonderful time. Like your RV adventures, travel through a rally at your own
pace. Immerse yourself in the busy rally schedule taking in as many or as
few of the activities offered as you wish. You may just find yourself so busy
that you won’t turn on that TV for days… which can be a good feeling…unplugging
from the bad news and plugging into this special group of like minded
recreation enthusiasts. In the evening, sit coach-side enjoying a cool breeze
and good friends.
During your rally time in Oregon, build in extra days for touring
many interesting industries and attractions just off rally site. Wind down
Oregon backroads on a winery tour (www.southwillamettewineries.com), rediscover Oregon’s historic covered bridges
(www.oregon.com/covered_bridges ), enjoy white water rafting on the McKenzie, take
an Oregon Country Tour, hike to waterfalls, play on the beach, visit the sea
lions at Sea Lion Caves, or explore the lava beds and high desert plains.
Before and after the rally, remember Oregon’s parks are without compare. Depending on your camping style and preference there are outstanding full amenities RV Resorts ( like Premier RV Resorts or Deerwood RV Park) and beautifully maintained county and state campgrounds to ensure your time spent in Oregon will be memorable. Have you camped at Silver Falls Campground—what a hiker’s haven with beautiful waterfalls to explore and topnotch campground facilities to enjoy at day’s end. Or Richardson Park near Eugene, which in years past hosted many Country Coach, LLC marketing department motorcoach photoshoots simply because it is such a picturesque location!
Before and after the rally, remember Oregon’s parks are without compare. Depending on your camping style and preference there are outstanding full amenities RV Resorts ( like Premier RV Resorts or Deerwood RV Park) and beautifully maintained county and state campgrounds to ensure your time spent in Oregon will be memorable. Have you camped at Silver Falls Campground—what a hiker’s haven with beautiful waterfalls to explore and topnotch campground facilities to enjoy at day’s end. Or Richardson Park near Eugene, which in years past hosted many Country Coach, LLC marketing department motorcoach photoshoots simply because it is such a picturesque location!
From Coast to High Desert Plains and the Willamette valley in
between, come discover Oregon’s
natural wonders. Socialize, recreate, refresh! Hope to visit with you at a rally in
Oregon soon--here’s nothing like it. Two of the rallies on the calendar this summer include:
FMCA Northwest
Area Rally
August 8 to 11, 2013
Albany, Oregon
August 8 to 11, 2013
Albany, Oregon
August 21-25, 2013
Albany, Oregon
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Country Coach Motoroil in the Veins: Louie Courtemanche
"Louie is known nationwide for his integrity in business
practices, quick wit, genuine interest in people, availability and
expansive knowledge of the luxury motorcoach world."
When Louie Courtemanche was a little boy, I'd venture a guess that he may have been fascinated by big trucks and busses and how they ran. I have come to that conclusion as I've watched Courtemanche for some nearly 19 years...Louie has a simply amazing knowledge base for how a highend motorcoach operates, its systems and components and what went into building that luxury motorcoach from the ground up! I first met Louie when he was introduced to the Country Coach Marketing team as the new Regional Sales Manager. At that time, Guaranty was a dealer of Country Coach Motorcoach lines, and Louie was a liaison between the company and the dealer, and quickly became well known as the customer's friend and advocate. A customer who special ordered a Country Coach through Guaranty would be sure to have the attention and watchful eye of Louie upon it throughout its build process as it made its way down the manufacturing line and eventually on to the street for its first test drive prior to eventually going to Guaranty for delivery to the new buyer.
Matching up owners with their dream coaches is truly Louie's forte--identifying a customer's wishlist when shopping for a motorcoach and then finding the perfect coach for them! Country Coach motorcoaches are his specialty. Over the years he made it his goal to personally educate himself on the Country Coach product from the inside out, front to back and bottom to top. When he spoke about the integrity and quality of a Country Coach motorcoach, you could believe him because he had personally put that coach to the test. And Louie could be counted on to take that call AFTER the sale, answering questions and troubleshooting for new owners learning the various systems and functions of their new home on wheels. Customers became friends and 'family'...Keeping up to date on the Courtemanche's growing little family, looking forward to seeing Louie's wife at some of the rallies across the nation over the years.
After the Country Coach manufacturer closed its doors in 2009, Louie teamed up with his longtime friend Gary Obermire (also a highline motorcoach guru) and they formed Premier RV Services in Junction City, OR.
I watched the company grow to be a much accessed resource of my motorcoaching friends across the nation who rely on Louie STILL for assistance regarding coach mechanical questions.... Or when it comes time for consigning their coach, or purchasing a new-to-them coach from the expansive inventory of highline motorcoaches Louie and Gary offer in their Sales Division....These days Louie is out of the office often delivering a coach somewhere or picking up a coach for consignment. He takes customer service to the next level. A reputation such as Louie enjoys in the motorcoach owners network is earned. By phone calls, emails, long visits at rallies and shows, and accessibility when a motorcoach owner has need of his services.
I can't prove it, but I'm fairly certain that Country Coach motoroil may run in Louie's veins. For certain, I'm impressed by the details and mechanical information and expansive knowledge base he's built upon over the year regarding nearly every brand of luxury motorcoach out there.
Louie is known nationwide for his integrity in business practices, quick wit, genuine interest in people, availability and expansive knowledge of the luxury motorcoach world. He comes highly recommended when anyone is in the market for a preowned luxury motorcoach or if you need a trusted company with whom to consign your motorcoach for sale.
For nearly 20 years now, I've heard nothing but good things from anyone whose had the pleasure of working with Louie Courtemanche. And a Country Coach cheerleader such as myself admires the passion for highend motorcoaches that is so apparent in how Louie conducts himself in this wonderful RV industry today. It continues to be my pleasure to watch Louie Courtemanche at work, earning his motorcoaching friends' repeat business with integrity, style and unwavering friendship.
www.premierrvservices.com
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Motorcoach Party Time in Kerrville, Albany and Calistoga!
The Country Coach Friends Inc (CCFI) group is a fun-loving bunch--focused on friendship and the simple goal: "Let's Have A Party!" And do they ever...whenever and wherever they gather. This non-profit social club for motorcoach owners is open to all brands of motorcoach owners and rallies coast to coast.
2013 finds Country Coach Friends rallying in Kerrville, TX (May), Albany, Oregon (August) and Calistoga, CA (October). There are still spaces available for the May rally, and registrations are now being accepted for the August rally!
Steeped in Country Coach tradition, yet vibrant and growing this club welcomes all brands of motorhomes into its rallies and membership. The rallies are reminiscent of the old Class Reunions presented by the former Country Coach, LLC manufacturer's marketing team! Attend a rally and experience this club for yourself.
If you own a motorhome, love to meet new people, enjoy learning more about your coach and its equipment and components, and exploring new locations in the company of like-minded RV Enthusiasts, this club is for you! Visit CCFI at www.countrycoachfriendsincorporated.com. Join the club!
Join the FUN! Let's have a party! Email: countrycoachfriendsinc@yahoo.com or jerryobus@aol.com (president of CCFI). Click here to visit the Club on line: Country Coach Friends
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