Costco Connection - April 2009

automotive connection

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43 stranded travelers simply need operational guidance,” says Cipres. “For example, when trying to level their RV, some owners unknowingly ‘dump the air’ in the suspension, causing system failure.”

Reviewing the owner’s manual and checking system operation prior to use will help travelers avoid this problem.

Batteries

Third on the list is batteries. Ensure they are well maintained—even new ones. If the RV is in storage or at an RV park, charge the engine battery every seven to 10 days by running the engine for an hour. If the RV is plugged into shore power, the house battery charges automatically, but check the water level weekly at a minimum. If power problems begin at a campground, question the reliability of the shore power connection.

Slide rooms and leveling systems

Twenty-four percent of calls surveyed reveal the most common “house” issues are slide rooms and leveling systems that fail to retract. Many times they stick from non-use.

Avoid getting stuck during vacation, and test slide rooms beforehand to ensure they are in good working order, especially if the RV has been stored.

Electrical system

Fifth on the list of concerns is overload of the alternating current (AC) 110-volt electrical system. RVs are rated to operate harmoniously with the appliances outfitting them. Be careful about adding big amp draws, such as a

Gina Bianchi Hardware Buyer

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FRANCE FREEMAN

NEVER BE WITHOUT power! The Sunforce Products 60 Watt Solar Kit is the perfect solution for backup or remote power for your cabin, RV, boat and 12-volt battery-charging needs.

The kit converts daylight into 12-volt (direct current, or DC) electricity; use it for running everyday items or as a backup energy source.

The kit includes battery clamps, wiring, a PVC mounting frame, a 7-amp charge controller and an inverter to convert 12-volt DC into 110-volt alternating current, allowing you to run appliances as if they were

hair dryer, blender or coffee maker. The roof air conditioner probably is the largest power consumer, so before switching it on high, turn off other appliances, or risk tripping a circuit breaker. C

connected to a home wall outlet.

Setup takes only a short period of time: Simply hook up the generator to a deep-cycle 12-volt battery (also available at Costco).

Major benefits of solar charging include noiseless, smokeless power that is also great for the environment.

Thanks to Sunforce Products’ unique technological advantages, direct sunlight isn’t needed to get power into your battery; the solar panels will charge a 12-volt battery in all weather conditions.