Another great vlog... As a Truck Driver I generally go to Love. More and more are putting in RV sites. (This is a Good Thing...) But this one time I went to Pilot. I was BobTailing it (Just the Tractor.) Even we have to follow unwritten Rules. So, you park in the Tractor Only parking. However, this was full. So, then we park in the Straight Truck parking; since we are the same lenth. But, several van life people were parked there. But, there was still a open space at the end; which I took. When I left the Tractor, and went to eat some dinner and take a shower... A few of the Van Lifers came over and told me to move! (That this was for Vans not Trucks!) I informed them that this was a Truck Stop! Not an RV Park! That these spaces are for Straight Trucks and Tractors not RVs! But, they still insisted I move... So, when I went in, the Managers and Sheriffs were talking, and I mentioned what was going on in Straight Truck Parking. I guess the Managers and Sheriffs asked them all to leave. Normally, there shouldn't have been a conflict, and Truckers don't care as long as you leave us alone! After a 14 Hr day, 11 hours of driving (600 miles) we just want to eat, shower and go to sleep!
As a fellow truck driver.... please folks, give us trucks our parking, you are welcome and I realize some use cooperate cards (fuel management, comdata.. whatever), but if using a bank card please fuel at the rv/car islands. Please and thank you
Truck drivers are what keeps this country going. Those Van life people can literally fit in a normal space off to the side. As a regular RV person I'm on your side with this one. Sometimes things are left better unsaid and they learned it the hard way.🤣
We were recently filling our gas tank at a new Loves on Oregon. Saw a new RV park next door. Just inquired how much it was even though it wasn't our time to stop yet. It was $45 and looked quite sterile with no trees or anything around. I probably wouldn't use them unless it was an emergency or something urgent.
I absolutely love how you two get along and make the little things like that seem fun. I’ve seen couples out there on the road who would have been screaming at each other.
Agree...these two are clueless! It tells you when you reserve that you have to check in to get power...and the power goes off after your check out time. They have been doing this for 7 years?? I have only watched one other...where they tried to camp in a COE without FHU and had to dump tanks in three days!
Years ago, I was management for UHAUL Supercenter. I literally wired over a 1000+ cars, trucks, trailers, and RV's. The symptoms you are experiencing are 9 times out of a GROUND problem. Installing your ground over chrome, paint, rust, etc. and not bare metal will manifest that problem for often than not. Make sure you have a ground and make over time check that connection is clean of rust and dirt. Just your vehicle battery if you don't clean and tight connection, corrosion could be the cause. Hope this you and your viewers. Enjoy life!
We have only been RVing for about a year, we did not know about Love's RV Stops. I looked on their site and I did not realize just how many sites there are between our home and our favorite parks. Thank you for the information.
Next time in Elkhart check out the fair grounds. Water, there's a dump, & electric reasonable. Most there when I was is 3 rvs so lots of space. Yes theres showers & toilets
You two are incredible! My wife, our two-year-old daughter, and I are just starting our journey toward full-time RV living. Our plan is to live the RV lifestyle for two years, giving our daughter amazing experiences before she starts school at age four. I’m currently working toward becoming fully licensed to practice social work and therapy independently. As a veteran, I plan to make a living through telehealth therapy while we travel, allowing us the freedom to explore, fish, and create unforgettable memories with our little one. Your channel has been such an inspiration to us, and it helps us feel less “crazy” for taking this leap. Thank you for sharing your adventures and showing that this kind of lifestyle is not only possible but also incredibly fulfilling.
Just fixed that on my 2024 GMC Sierra 2500. GMC has a recall on it. Its a module on the truck. Mine was located hidden above the spare tire. The recall is "Intermittent loss of trailer brakes." Good luck, might be your issue!
I have the same issue on my 2025 Chevy 3500. From what i was told it is a chevy module issue. If your camper battery is more charged, then your truck battery it will error due to voltage. I had a problem because the solar on camper was charging the camper battery. I had the RV dealer put a disconnect in between the battery and Solar system. If I pull the disconnect so solar is not charging while towing the camper i have not had any issues since. I hope the recall fix permanently fixes the problem however.
I'm having a similar issue with a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD: intermittent loss of trailer brake connection. I'll clean the contacts, and if that doesn't work, I'll let Chevrolet know.
Spritz both 7 pin end connector sets of contacts with some DeoxIT D5 every few months. Removes any oxidation and offers some protection against oxidation starting. Significantly improves connection quality. Takes very little oxidation resistance to make connections unreliable when they only have 12V with which to work.
Thanks Hanks. It's always good to see 'normal' mistakes. Most people would edit stuff like that out. I'm glad you showed us that how to fix the problem and how easy it was.
We love Loves RV Stops! We've stayed at 2 of them lately. I felt exposed on the first night but after that I felt much better about it. We run our ac and or the air purifier at night so it makes enough white noise that we don't hear the cars, trucks, or the highway.
I love when the crap works like it was supposed to but didn’t for years .. we just got used to the wrong way being okay but. Then it gets fixed and we are like wow this is amazing 😊😆
LOVE YOU GUYS. all 3 of ya. You are so human. Believe me I know exactly how you felt trying to figure out the power at Love’s. Please, please keep making our week. We get excited each Thursday evening and your video’s.
Brake controllers can be a pain at times. On mine I found 2 issues; one is the receiver forks spread out over time and that causes connectivity issues and the disconnected message to come on. I just squeeze them together occassionally. Two, the forks get crudy from the road so I now keep spray contact cleaner in the tool box and spray both the RV and truck connection regularily. Poof, no more screaming messages. Last fall I did cross country from Pa, to west in Utah, then down to Hill Country in Texas. Used Loves in several locations, both the small ones like this video, and a large one with campground like amenities including pickleball courts. For overnight, or in one case 2 night stays there are very useful. Never felt any safety issues, were clean and level. Nice option right off the interstates. White noise is helpful. Good luck with the reliability issues in the RV. Be safe out there.
When planning trips to Western Canada ALWAYS be aware of the fires. Jasper is a current example. Denali in Alaska also had recent fire closures. Detours can be hours away.
Actually the wiring in the axle may have a rubbed spot which causes the controller to have those errors. You may need to pull the wiring out of the axle and check for rubbed spots.
Exactly what happened to ours. GMC Sierra as well. The wire chafes then grounds out inside the tube or on exposed suspension gear if not secured to prevent chafing.
If you’re still getting error codes after this check out this bulletin. static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2023/MC-10243754-0001.pdf We are taking our 2024 Silverado hd in next week for this issue.
We used Love's for an overnight stay in Arkansas, returning from Texas, and of the 8 sites, 5 were booked. One thing we learned, though, is that not all sites are the same size. We have a 25-foot trailer that could fit in the smaller spot, but be sure to look at that. The other thing is that they charge a cancellation fee if you decide to switch sites. The site we booked was right at the entrance. We paid 10-15 dollars to move furthest from the entrance. That was back in April. We really appreciated it as a good backup
I’ve stopped at several Loves RV stops and I really like them. Each one was a little different for level, but I only had to unhitch at one. As someone mentioned the A/C running drowns out most of the road noise. It is handy to have coffee, snacks, restrooms and even showers handy if needed. When I travel I always try to look for one for overnight stops.
We stayed overnight at a Love’s RV Stop in Utah earlier this summer. It was directly across the street from the travel stop itself, so it was a very nice, quiet night. Lots of amenities at that location; really more than most would likely use. That said, I would definitely stay at one again - and I hope Love’s continues to expand their network of RV Stops.
On our trip from TX to VT and back we stayed at a Loves RV spot twice. It was the same Loves in PA, going and returning. We paid about $48 each time for FHUs. It worked well; check in was easy. The sites were level side to side but not front to back. We pull a 31’ travel trailer so we felt the unlevelness but it wasn’t too radical. We slept fine due to our AC running, as well. We’d use one again. Thanks for sharing your experience.
In May, I had to help an elderly couple at the Cordele Love's figure out that they didn't have power at their pedestal. I used my Watchdog to show there was no power. They hadn't checked in. Great video! We love watching your channel every week!
I drive a truck and at the loves all the time, I also have a travel trailer, you can get a location map of all the loves rv stop list and also includes what type of parking is available, they have several different styles of parking for rvs
Having to check in before the power was on, that’s a great learning experience for the rest of us. Priceless video. Thanks for all the great videos, we’ve been full time for two years and have learned a lot from you guys. Thanks so much!!!
We have used them, hehehe And yes check in first then hook up your utilities. I am over 70 and I still can’t find the garbage can, even if I am standing over it checking in. Safe travels.
We have stayed at Love's twice last year , one in Kansas and one in Arkansas (I think). They were both $35 for the night and 10% discount for senior or Good Sam. The one in Kansas was like this, just off the main lot. No power until you sign in. The sites did slope so the rear was lower than the front. I used some blocks, but still could not get perfectly level without lifting rear tires. It was late so we kept fridge off and went to sleep. The other Loves site was an area behind the station with a separate gated entrance and exit. It was real nice with about 8 pull through concrete sites that were level and it was shielded from the highway noise. We like Love's for those late hour stops for one night. The only down side is usually no place for a good meal nearby.
I stayed at a Love's in GA that literally looked like an RV resort! It has 2 dog parks for large and small dogs, a fire pit are, pickle ball, and a water park for kids. It also had a separate laundry room and shower rooms/restrooms for campers!
@@kimberleesmith2703 I wish I remembered which city I was in! I was traveling from CA to VA so I didn't get to stay anywhere for more than a night or two.
@@Hugo-Hernandez I don't unfortunately. It may have been near Macon I think? I was moving here with my ex on military orders. We bought an rv and packed it with my mom, son, and 8 dogs! Then we proceeded to hurry up and get here, buy a home, and get my ex's license updated in FL before settling into VA and divorcing shortly after. lol. Sorry for the long read. I'm just open and wish I really remembered what location it was at.
We are the same way. You’ve gotta have fun in life or everyday is miserable!!! We each have our own travel day ‘duties’ as it makes the day more enjoyable or less stress. We so love watching you two interact, work as a team and have fun everyday!!! Love you to Dexter!
Those hydrants are for filling pails on farms where they’re usually found. That’s what the knob on the top end over the hose connection is for. The pail handle hangs there so your hands are free.
Nope Carl 🙂↔️ I was totally watching and completely stumped as to why the electricity wasn’t working 🤷♀️ 😂 Ney-Ney’s smart 🤓 She figured it out quicker than I would’ve 😂 Y’all are amazing 😘
I had the same trailer wiring issue on my chevy 2500HD. Turns out it's the RV not the truck. The RV has a solar panel and when the batteries are charged more than the truck, it backfeeds into the truck and causes the error. An easy way to test is to disconnect the RV batteries and see if the error goes away. If it does then you'll need a diode so that power flows in one direction.
Looks like a Woodford Manufacturing Model S3 Sanitary Yard Hydrant. Woodford makes awesome hydrants. The S3 is a closed frost-free hydrant with a blackflow preventer and diverter. Open the hydrant, then pull down the on diverter to close the diverter (as you discovered). When you turn the hydrant off, the diverter will open so that the water in the pipe can drain out - that way it doesn't freeze! A traditional frost-free hydrant (like the archtypical Woodford Iowa Y34) has an opening underground (buried below the front line) for water to drain. This leaves a possibility for water to backflow from underground into the pipe. Since the standard style frost-free hydrants may let dirt in the water, Millenials aren't allowed to drink from them, and they have been relegated to farms and gardens.
We live near a Love's with a similar RV arrangement, and there are usually several rigs there. It's convenient to point out that they have a dump station, usually near the propane tank and air pump, for only $10. We use it when we get home so that we can use our class B on the return trip and dump before putting it in storage.
LOL!!! Yes, I too was sitting here saying go check in!! That is why we like the channel, keeping it real world!! I would say that plug you pull on is for freeze protection. That will pop open so no water freezes and ruptures the pipe.
I have been subscribed forever, Carl. Wouldn’t dream of missing any of the Hank’s adventures! Y’all are very entertaining and provide great information.
We had a similar issue with the trailer brake connection warning. As an older person I was having a problem making a good connection in the truck bed. I replaced my 7 way plug to the RV and then bought a 3’ extension so I could make sure of a positive connection. Has worked great
Thanks for trying one of these and for the laughs. Fully agree it’s hard to find a quiet park that’s not 10 miles off the main road so we’ve learned to accept the noise for convenience. We will keep this option in mind.
You guys make your videos so interesting and humorous! Not an RV owner yet but made the 1st step by purchasing a RAM 2500 so we can tow almost any trailer.
LOL We have the same weird water hydrants at a local county park where we camp from time to time. You figured it out MUCH faster than we did the first time we tried to hook up. I have since showed many fellow campers how the silly things work. Thanks for another great "Real Life with the Hanks" video! 😆
For the water. LOL, that was our 1st problem when we rolled into our 1st campground on our madden voyage. Where the water comes out initially, you pull that part down and water will start coming out of the threaded connection.
Ok so I have to say, this episode made me laugh and I am so new to the camping thing. Stayed at Loves once last year on way back from our first out of state trip and oh my I was so glad we stayed there because we could hook up to electric and it allowed us to have heat when it was freezing. Kinda pricey but so worth it. Love you guys...you both are such entertaining youngsters.
The brass collar on the hydrant you pull down is called a vacuum breaker, it keeps water from siphoning back into the system. Once you turn it off. You guys are awesome, cheers! Scotty
We have stayed at Loves twice over the past 2 years. Both times it was due to convenience. We didnt have a reservation anywhere and we were trying to cover a lot of miles in one day. We enjoyed both experiences! It was all about convenience.
It was kind of funny how excited you were over there levelling when it should’ve been doing it all along. Thanks for the videos. Thanks for what the two of you do.
Found out one thing while staying in a Loves and that’s never to get in spot 1. We did and there were several people staying in their cars in the parking lot and they kept using the Kiosk for power to charge their phones and other items. Kept hanging around there beside our motorhome.
We stayed at our first Loves and I must say, it's pretty quick, easy, and safe. Dalhart Texas. We had to go in and tell them we were there to get power.
Get yourself some dielectric grease and put some into the 7pin connector on both sides. It will the elements etc out of the connectors and they won't corrode. Its actually used even with spark plug connectors. I've been doing it for years and have no issues.
Big fan of Love’s and their RV Stops. The tightest one I have seen to get into was the one in Jacksonville Florida. The slots were directly in front of the gas pumps. It was doable but very tight for my 30 foot trailer. Noisier than most of the ones we’ve stayed at but about the same as a Walmart. Safe travels.
I parked in two Love's sites. They were both safe. One was FAR MORE expensive than the other (more expensive in Missouri than in Oklahoma). Something I wish Loves would do is include a shower in the fee for camping. Otherwise, no complaints for me! I also should note - I'm in a Class B. Totally easy to back in for me!
Am addition to my comment, ask a truck driver about a shower, I get unlimited free showers due to the amount of fuel I buy, nobody pays for a shower in my presence... NOBODY
Great video Hanks. I have the same problem with my GMC hooking up to my fifth wheel it says a wiring notice / breaks, Is that all Grand Design did was change out your seven way pin to the camper? That fixed the problem? Did they change out anything else to your truck or the camper to resolve that problem?
😂😂😂😂😂 You all are the second RUclips RVers this week who struggled with that type of water spigot. My kids couldn't figure it out when we first started RVing. I just watched and laughed hysterically. I would have just watched and laughed at yall as well. 😂😂😂😂😂 Rving is great entertainment.
I had the same problem, make sure your connections are clean on your plug that connects behind your bumper and keep dielectric grease on all connections as well.
I had a similir "power issue" at a Loves but thankfully I had a surge surpressor built into my 30A connector at the power source and when I plugged it in no light on it so I knew the problem was me not reading the directions ;)
Glad to know you had a great time in Bar Harbor. When I watched the video on your arrival there I said to my wife "that looks like Hadley's Point". We stayed there 5 years ago and infact I recognized that you had the same camp site that we were in. I was surprised, though, that they now have you make reservations to go up Cadillac Mountain. While we were there, we took a boat tour of the area lighthouses. It was a great time. You guys continue to inspire us in our travels also.
I love how yall keep things real and interesting. I was wondering if you needed to check in to get power but I knew Ney Ney would figure it out. Thanks for sharing
This is the style of RV parking I would like to see at most of the Love's. With the exception of having sewer or a dump station available. All it's for is a convenient, overnight stop on the freeway without having to travel miles out of the way to get to a park. We travel with two cat's and need the a/c. We'll pay the convenience fee to have a level site with hookups right on the freeway we're traveling on. Great video. We enjoy your channel.
We love the comedy routine. Thanks for letting the rest of not being newbie’ish. 😂❤Water valve; maybe pressure release, but also for filling up a water jug instead of watering the gravel.
If you have anymore electrical problems check your in box seven way plug main connector near the back side of the bumper, moisture sometimes gets in that connection and will rust will get on the connector. Had the same problem and replace the harness easy fix and use electric grease on the connectors
We did an overnight in southern KY at a Cracker Barrel and around 1:30am a crew showed up to sweep the parking lot with a truck sweeper and a dude with a leaf blower for about 90 minutes right outside of our rig. It was nuts!
Quit camping 2 yrs ago. Between the all night Raves and no availability we gave up. Bought a cabin and do Airbnb trips. No more towing giant boxes behind us, no more 3am campground raves and zero booking issues. Life is good
Thanks Hanks for always keepin it real and lettin er rip!..Let’s face it, just like some camp grounds, some Loves RV Stops are better than others. We’ve experienced the good with the bad, but overall, you can’t beat them for an overnight 👍🏼🇺🇸
Had some issues with our 7 pin. Found that the tabs inside the plug had been bent ever so slightly, just enough to make an occasional "disconnect" with a road bump. Tweaked 'em all just a bit, problem solved with once again tight connections.
Thanks for posting this! Looks like a great overnight on a longer trip. Odd thing on the water hydrant was probably a vacuum breaker to prevent water from flowing into the hydrant from the RV.
I had the same problem with my Dodge hookup. I found after checking everything, If you twist your cord just enough to make slight pressure in the plug twords front of truck it makes better connection on the break pin in the truck connector. It's the bottom right pin looking at the plug in.
Properly called "7 pin connector" or less accurate "7 way connector" (bc it's actually the opposite of a parallel connection like you find in a 3 way switch or battery connection, isolating the electrical connections rather than bridging them). But it's one of those things that morphs with time to weird names like "7 way pin" and loses the important descriptor "connector". Or we just throw every word in there... "7 way pin connector". Just a little nomenclature pet peeve.
I do suggest doing a tugtest every time you back your truck up 2 ur 5th wheel... this ensures the claws grab the king..pin..is grabbed..tugtest is pulling foward to make sure your attached..Paul .....former truck driver
I absolutely LOVE you two! I love that you show me your struggles; the same struggles I have and feel goofy about. I’m grateful that I’m not the ONLY one 😂 I travel alone and usually have to look like a goofball by asking embarrassing questions to people around me. You did it on RUclips ❤ Thank you for helping me not feel like I’m the ONLY one that struggles with (sometimes) the obvious 😊
We had the same issue with our chevy truck dinging and saying check trailer brakes, then trailer brakes disconnected and right back to trailer brakes connected. First wheel I pulled off I found the trailer brake wire was not under the little clips to hold the wire in place and it got caught up in the brake arm and was being pinched when the brake arm moved. metal arm and metal brake drum pinched the wire until the insulation wore off and exposed the wire causing a short when the exposed wire touched the metal arm and brake drum. Fixed the brake wire and put it back under the wire clip holder. Fixed the problem and no more ding ding ding or dash board messages. no more loss of trailer brakes either.
The Loves RV stop in Cordele Georgia has about 30 or 40 sites with some pull through. Splash pad, pickle ball court, dog wash, laundry, showers, some have gas grills, and it’s all behind a gate. You check in online and they send you a code for the gate, and almost all the sites had full hook ups. We watched your other video on the Loves RV Stops and stayed there on the way to Florida. My wife kept saying “all this at a truckstop?”
It's called a pop-off valve, which doubles as an anti siphon valve. If it freezes it keeps the pipes from cracking and if you cut the water supply off it'll stop water from the rv from getting sucked into the water system and possible contamination.
@@williamvonkamp6709 backflow, anti-syphon,,,, pop-off,,,same thing, when pressure builds it pops there and stops water from entering the system. Just as I said🤣🤣🤣 but thanks for playing along 👉🤪
I had the same trailer brake issue with disconnecting. The problem is caused by the solar panels on the trailer charging the trailer batteries to a voltage higher than that of the truck battery. That higher voltage feeds back to the brake controller module in the truck and causes the disconnect problem. You'll probably notice that problem most frequently occurs on bright, sunny days when the solar panels are producing higher charging voltage. Mine always worked great on rainy or cloudy days. GM has a recall on the brake control module and will replace it at no charge, no questions ask.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Another great vlog... As a Truck Driver I generally go to Love. More and more are putting in RV sites. (This is a Good Thing...)
But this one time I went to Pilot. I was BobTailing it (Just the Tractor.) Even we have to follow unwritten Rules. So, you park in the Tractor Only parking. However, this was full. So, then we park in the Straight Truck parking; since we are the same lenth. But, several van life people were parked there. But, there was still a open space at the end; which I took. When I left the Tractor, and went to eat some dinner and take a shower... A few of the Van Lifers came over and told me to move! (That this was for Vans not Trucks!) I informed them that this was a Truck Stop! Not an RV Park! That these spaces are for Straight Trucks and Tractors not RVs! But, they still insisted I move... So, when I went in, the Managers and Sheriffs were talking, and I mentioned what was going on in Straight Truck Parking. I guess the Managers and Sheriffs asked them all to leave.
Normally, there shouldn't have been a conflict, and Truckers don't care as long as you leave us alone! After a 14 Hr day, 11 hours of driving (600 miles) we just want to eat, shower and go to sleep!
As a fellow truck driver.... please folks, give us trucks our parking, you are welcome and I realize some use cooperate cards (fuel management, comdata.. whatever), but if using a bank card please fuel at the rv/car islands. Please and thank you
Truck drivers are what keeps this country going. Those Van life people can literally fit in a normal space off to the side. As a regular RV person I'm on your side with this one. Sometimes things are left better unsaid and they learned it the hard way.🤣
We were recently filling our gas tank at a new Loves on Oregon. Saw a new RV park next door. Just inquired how much it was even though it wasn't our time to stop yet. It was $45 and looked quite sterile with no trees or anything around. I probably wouldn't use them unless it was an emergency or something urgent.
As a retired driver those sites at Love’s look really convenient. I parked my tv in the woods June first.
I won’t head home till Labor Day.
Dang. Ppl can suck sometimes. That's why I'm an introvert tho. lol. We all need to share the road and the spaces we stop along it!
My wife and I can be VERY goofy, too. When you didn't check in before hooking up, I looked at her and said, "Hey, it's us." Yep. Love the Hanks!
I absolutely love how you two get along and make the little things like that seem fun. I’ve seen couples out there on the road who would have been screaming at each other.
Lol! I was screaming at my iPad…”I’ll bet you have to check in first!!!!!!!”
I think we were all yelling that!!😂😂😂
Me too!! I was like check in! Check in! Check in!! Haha
Me too 😂
Me also, I was screaming it!
Me too!! 😅😂
And I'm sitting here screaming at the screen, "Go check in! GO CHECK IN!" LOL
Agree...these two are clueless! It tells you when you reserve that you have to check in to get power...and the power goes off after your check out time. They have been doing this for 7 years?? I have only watched one other...where they tried to camp in a COE without FHU and had to dump tanks in three days!
Hahaha! Love this 🙂We were kicking ourselves after realizing it
Bucees take note!
Your wifey is pretty smart. I like how she figured out the electrical problem great video. Thanks for what the two of you do.
Years ago, I was management for UHAUL Supercenter. I literally wired over a 1000+ cars, trucks, trailers, and RV's. The symptoms you are experiencing are 9 times out of a GROUND problem. Installing your ground over chrome, paint, rust, etc. and not bare metal will manifest that problem for often than not. Make sure you have a ground and make over time check that connection is clean of rust and dirt. Just your vehicle battery if you don't clean and tight connection, corrosion could be the cause. Hope this you and your viewers. Enjoy life!
Not sick of your shenanigans! Keep um comin
Yes! Good, real stuff!
The Trailer Connection problem. To keep things good, put a small amount of dielectric grease on the 7-way plug. It keeps the corrosion away.
We have only been RVing for about a year, we did not know about Love's RV Stops. I looked on their site and I did not realize just how many sites there are between our home and our favorite parks. Thank you for the information.
Next time in Elkhart check out the fair grounds. Water, there's a dump, & electric reasonable. Most there when I was is 3 rvs so lots of space. Yes theres showers & toilets
You two are incredible! My wife, our two-year-old daughter, and I are just starting our journey toward full-time RV living. Our plan is to live the RV lifestyle for two years, giving our daughter amazing experiences before she starts school at age four.
I’m currently working toward becoming fully licensed to practice social work and therapy independently. As a veteran, I plan to make a living through telehealth therapy while we travel, allowing us the freedom to explore, fish, and create unforgettable memories with our little one.
Your channel has been such an inspiration to us, and it helps us feel less “crazy” for taking this leap. Thank you for sharing your adventures and showing that this kind of lifestyle is not only possible but also incredibly fulfilling.
Just fixed that on my 2024 GMC Sierra 2500.
GMC has a recall on it. Its a module on the truck. Mine was located hidden above the spare tire. The recall is "Intermittent loss of trailer brakes." Good luck, might be your issue!
I have the same issue on my 2024 2500
I have the same issue on my 2025 Chevy 3500. From what i was told it is a chevy module issue. If your camper battery is more charged, then your truck battery it will error due to voltage. I had a problem because the solar on camper was charging the camper battery. I had the RV dealer put a disconnect in between the battery and Solar system. If I pull the disconnect so solar is not charging while towing the camper i have not had any issues since. I hope the recall fix permanently fixes the problem however.
I'm having a similar issue with a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD: intermittent loss of trailer brake connection. I'll clean the contacts, and if that doesn't work, I'll let Chevrolet know.
Had the same issue on my 2018. Was the module mounted above the spare tire as well
Spritz both 7 pin end connector sets of contacts with some DeoxIT D5 every few months. Removes any oxidation and offers some protection against oxidation starting. Significantly improves connection quality. Takes very little oxidation resistance to make connections unreliable when they only have 12V with which to work.
Thanks Hanks. It's always good to see 'normal' mistakes. Most people would edit stuff like that out. I'm glad you showed us that how to fix the problem and how easy it was.
We love Loves RV Stops! We've stayed at 2 of them lately. I felt exposed on the first night but after that I felt much better about it. We run our ac and or the air purifier at night so it makes enough white noise that we don't hear the cars, trucks, or the highway.
I love when the crap works like it was supposed to but didn’t for years .. we just got used to the wrong way being okay but. Then it gets fixed and we are like wow this is amazing 😊😆
LOVE YOU GUYS. all 3 of ya. You are so human. Believe me I know exactly how you felt trying to figure out the power at Love’s. Please, please keep making our week. We get excited each Thursday evening and your video’s.
Brake controllers can be a pain at times. On mine I found 2 issues; one is the receiver forks spread out over time and that causes connectivity issues and the disconnected message to come on. I just squeeze them together occassionally. Two, the forks get crudy from the road so I now keep spray contact cleaner in the tool box and spray both the RV and truck connection regularily. Poof, no more screaming messages. Last fall I did cross country from Pa, to west in Utah, then down to Hill Country in Texas. Used Loves in several locations, both the small ones like this video, and a large one with campground like amenities including pickleball courts. For overnight, or in one case 2 night stays there are very useful. Never felt any safety issues, were clean and level. Nice option right off the interstates. White noise is helpful. Good luck with the reliability issues in the RV. Be safe out there.
We always love options just like you! Thanks Hanks!
When planning trips to Western Canada ALWAYS be aware of the fires. Jasper is a current example. Denali in Alaska also had recent fire closures. Detours can be hours away.
Actually the wiring in the axle may have a rubbed spot which causes the controller to have those errors. You may need to pull the wiring out of the axle and check for rubbed spots.
Exactly what happened to ours. GMC Sierra as well. The wire chafes then grounds out inside the tube or on exposed suspension gear if not secured to prevent chafing.
If you’re still getting error codes after this check out this bulletin.
static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2023/MC-10243754-0001.pdf
We are taking our 2024 Silverado hd in next week for this issue.
We used Love's for an overnight stay in Arkansas, returning from Texas, and of the 8 sites, 5 were booked. One thing we learned, though, is that not all sites are the same size. We have a 25-foot trailer that could fit in the smaller spot, but be sure to look at that. The other thing is that they charge a cancellation fee if you decide to switch sites. The site we booked was right at the entrance. We paid 10-15 dollars to move furthest from the entrance. That was back in April. We really appreciated it as a good backup
I’ve stopped at several Loves RV stops and I really like them. Each one was a little different for level, but I only had to unhitch at one. As someone mentioned the A/C running drowns out most of the road noise. It is handy to have coffee, snacks, restrooms and even showers handy if needed. When I travel I always try to look for one for overnight stops.
My wife's fav video so far! she was laughing at no power. she told me we're not the only ones!😇
We stayed overnight at a Love’s RV Stop in Utah earlier this summer. It was directly across the street from the travel stop itself, so it was a very nice, quiet night.
Lots of amenities at that location; really more than most would likely use. That said, I would definitely stay at one again - and I hope Love’s continues to expand their network of RV Stops.
On our trip from TX to VT and back we stayed at a Loves RV spot twice. It was the same Loves in PA, going and returning. We paid about $48 each time for FHUs. It worked well; check in was easy. The sites were level side to side but not front to back. We pull a 31’ travel trailer so we felt the unlevelness but it wasn’t too radical. We slept fine due to our AC running, as well. We’d use one again. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Thanks!
In May, I had to help an elderly couple at the Cordele Love's figure out that they didn't have power at their pedestal. I used my Watchdog to show there was no power. They hadn't checked in. Great video! We love watching your channel every week!
I drive a truck and at the loves all the time, I also have a travel trailer, you can get a location map of all the loves rv stop list and also includes what type of parking is available, they have several different styles of parking for rvs
Ohhhh how do I find this? Googling now
Having to check in before the power was on, that’s a great learning experience for the rest of us. Priceless video. Thanks for all the great videos, we’ve been full time for two years and have learned a lot from you guys. Thanks so much!!!
Yes always love getting the notifications from The Hanks. ❤❤
We have used them, hehehe And yes check in first then hook up your utilities. I am over 70 and I still can’t find the garbage can, even if I am standing over it checking in. Safe travels.
I'm laughing at the t.v. you need to check in first. I'm glad you figured it out. 😂 I think the instructions for the water are printed on its base 😅
We have stayed at Love's twice last year , one in Kansas and one in Arkansas (I think). They were both $35 for the night and 10% discount for senior or Good Sam. The one in Kansas was like this, just off the main lot. No power until you sign in. The sites did slope so the rear was lower than the front. I used some blocks, but still could not get perfectly level without lifting rear tires. It was late so we kept fridge off and went to sleep. The other Loves site was an area behind the station with a separate gated entrance and exit. It was real nice with about 8 pull through concrete sites that were level and it was shielded from the highway noise. We like Love's for those late hour stops for one night. The only down side is usually no place for a good meal nearby.
What?!? You don't like Gus's chicken fried steak and coffee? Wieners that went on the rollers at 6 pm and it's now 11?
I stayed at a Love's in GA that literally looked like an RV resort! It has 2 dog parks for large and small dogs, a fire pit are, pickle ball, and a water park for kids. It also had a separate laundry room and shower rooms/restrooms for campers!
WoW!!! 🤯
@@kimberleesmith2703 I wish I remembered which city I was in! I was traveling from CA to VA so I didn't get to stay anywhere for more than a night or two.
Do you remember where in Georgia it was at by a chance?
@@Hugo-Hernandez I don't unfortunately. It may have been near Macon I think? I was moving here with my ex on military orders. We bought an rv and packed it with my mom, son, and 8 dogs! Then we proceeded to hurry up and get here, buy a home, and get my ex's license updated in FL before settling into VA and divorcing shortly after. lol. Sorry for the long read. I'm just open and wish I really remembered what location it was at.
@@ArkSurvivalMom
No problem thank you. I’m sorry you had to go through a divorce that’s never easy.
We are the same way. You’ve gotta have fun in life or everyday is miserable!!!
We each have our own travel day ‘duties’ as it makes the day more enjoyable or less stress. We so love watching you two interact, work as a team and have fun everyday!!! Love you to Dexter!
I appreciate how ya'll show real life. We all get comfy in our setups, then boom, screwup.
Those hydrants are for filling pails on farms where they’re usually found. That’s what the knob on the top end over the hose connection is for. The pail handle hangs there so your hands are free.
Nope Carl 🙂↔️ I was totally watching and completely stumped as to why the electricity wasn’t working 🤷♀️ 😂 Ney-Ney’s smart 🤓 She figured it out quicker than I would’ve 😂 Y’all are amazing 😘
I had the same trailer wiring issue on my chevy 2500HD. Turns out it's the RV not the truck. The RV has a solar panel and when the batteries are charged more than the truck, it backfeeds into the truck and causes the error. An easy way to test is to disconnect the RV batteries and see if the error goes away. If it does then you'll need a diode so that power flows in one direction.
Love that you teach us what to do when we get there at Love's.
Looks like a Woodford Manufacturing Model S3 Sanitary Yard Hydrant. Woodford makes awesome hydrants.
The S3 is a closed frost-free hydrant with a blackflow preventer and diverter. Open the hydrant, then pull down the on diverter to close the diverter (as you discovered). When you turn the hydrant off, the diverter will open so that the water in the pipe can drain out - that way it doesn't freeze!
A traditional frost-free hydrant (like the archtypical Woodford Iowa Y34) has an opening underground (buried below the front line) for water to drain. This leaves a possibility for water to backflow from underground into the pipe. Since the standard style frost-free hydrants may let dirt in the water, Millenials aren't allowed to drink from them, and they have been relegated to farms and gardens.
We live near a Love's with a similar RV arrangement, and there are usually several rigs there. It's convenient to point out that they have a dump station, usually near the propane tank and air pump, for only $10. We use it when we get home so that we can use our class B on the return trip and dump before putting it in storage.
Love you guys! As a RN who will retire in 4 years, and be a full timer. I learn so much and laugh with you on your
Travels. Keep it going guys❤
LOL!!! Yes, I too was sitting here saying go check in!! That is why we like the channel, keeping it real world!! I would say that plug you pull on is for freeze protection. That will pop open so no water freezes and ruptures the pipe.
I have been subscribed forever, Carl. Wouldn’t dream of missing any of the Hank’s adventures! Y’all are very entertaining and provide great information.
We had a similar issue with the trailer brake connection warning. As an older person I was having a problem making a good connection in the truck bed. I replaced my 7 way plug to the RV and then bought a 3’ extension so I could make sure of a positive connection. Has worked great
That's pretty good. You have to check in before you activate utilities.
Thanks for trying one of these and for the laughs. Fully agree it’s hard to find a quiet park that’s not 10 miles off the main road so we’ve learned to accept the noise for convenience. We will keep this option in mind.
You guys make your videos so interesting and humorous! Not an RV owner yet but made the 1st step by purchasing a RAM 2500 so we can tow almost any trailer.
I’m not an RVer, but enjoy your videos.
LOL We have the same weird water hydrants at a local county park where we camp from time to time. You figured it out MUCH faster than we did the first time we tried to hook up. I have since showed many fellow campers how the silly things work. Thanks for another great "Real Life with the Hanks" video! 😆
For the water. LOL, that was our 1st problem when we rolled into our 1st campground on our madden voyage.
Where the water comes out initially, you pull that part down and water will start coming out of the threaded connection.
Ok so I have to say, this episode made me laugh and I am so new to the camping thing. Stayed at Loves once last year on way back from our first out of state trip and oh my I was so glad we stayed there because we could hook up to electric and it allowed us to have heat when it was freezing. Kinda pricey but so worth it. Love you guys...you both are such entertaining youngsters.
The brass collar on the hydrant you pull down is called a vacuum breaker, it keeps water from siphoning back into the system. Once you turn it off.
You guys are awesome, cheers!
Scotty
love to see the paradigm next to ya, they look good together!
I can feel your relief that things are working again……..yippee!!!
We have stayed at Loves twice over the past 2 years. Both times it was due to convenience. We didnt have a reservation anywhere and we were trying to cover a lot of miles in one day. We enjoyed both experiences! It was all about convenience.
It was kind of funny how excited you were over there levelling when it should’ve been doing it all along. Thanks for the videos. Thanks for what the two of you do.
Found out one thing while staying in a Loves and that’s never to get in spot 1. We did and there were several people staying in their cars in the parking lot and they kept using the Kiosk for power to charge their phones and other items. Kept hanging around there beside our motorhome.
We stayed at our first Loves and I must say, it's pretty quick, easy, and safe. Dalhart Texas. We had to go in and tell them we were there to get power.
Get yourself some dielectric grease and put some into the 7pin connector on both sides. It will the elements etc out of the connectors and they won't corrode. Its actually used even with spark plug connectors. I've been doing it for years and have no issues.
Big fan of Love’s and their RV Stops. The tightest one I have seen to get into was the one in Jacksonville Florida. The slots were directly in front of the gas pumps. It was doable but very tight for my 30 foot trailer. Noisier than most of the ones we’ve stayed at but about the same as a Walmart. Safe travels.
Hey Michael! Thank you for sharing. We have been really enjoying the Love's RV Stops as well. Stay safe out there 😃
good diagnostic skills
Same thing the Iowa loves RV spot too. It’s right next to the gas pumps like you had.
I parked in two Love's sites. They were both safe. One was FAR MORE expensive than the other (more expensive in Missouri than in Oklahoma). Something I wish Loves would do is include a shower in the fee for camping. Otherwise, no complaints for me! I also should note - I'm in a Class B. Totally easy to back in for me!
Suuuuuuure rub it in why don't you? ;)
Truck driver here... I prefer loves myself... we come in peace (and got your back)
Am addition to my comment, ask a truck driver about a shower, I get unlimited free showers due to the amount of fuel I buy, nobody pays for a shower in my presence... NOBODY
@@EricHendricks-oy5zw Loves are zoos!! So are Pilots though close to big cities
@CarryMePlz2239 , I completely agree, but in a semi truck, we have few options
Great video Hanks. I have the same problem with my GMC hooking up to my fifth wheel it says a wiring notice / breaks, Is that all Grand Design did was change out your seven way pin to the camper? That fixed the problem? Did they change out anything else to your truck or the camper to resolve that problem?
😂😂😂😂😂 You all are the second RUclips RVers this week who struggled with that type of water spigot. My kids couldn't figure it out when we first started RVing. I just watched and laughed hysterically. I would have just watched and laughed at yall as well. 😂😂😂😂😂 Rving is great entertainment.
Appreciate how real you guys are!!! Most people would edit out our short comings!!!
I had the same problem, make sure your connections are clean on your plug that connects behind your bumper and keep dielectric grease on all connections as well.
Wow, your cat Dexter has the most incredible blue eyes! I'm in love at first sight 😍
I had a similir "power issue" at a Loves but thankfully I had a surge surpressor built into my 30A connector at the power source and when I plugged it in no light on it so I knew the problem was me not reading the directions ;)
Glad to know you had a great time in Bar Harbor. When I watched the video on your arrival there I said to my wife "that looks like Hadley's Point". We stayed there 5 years ago and infact I recognized that you had the same camp site that we were in. I was surprised, though, that they now have you make reservations to go up Cadillac Mountain. While we were there, we took a boat tour of the area lighthouses. It was a great time. You guys continue to inspire us in our travels also.
I love how yall keep things real and interesting. I was wondering if you needed to check in to get power but I knew Ney Ney would figure it out. Thanks for sharing
This is the style of RV parking I would like to see at most of the Love's. With the exception of having sewer or a dump station available. All it's for is a convenient, overnight stop on the freeway without having to travel miles out of the way to get to a park. We travel with two cat's and need the a/c. We'll pay the convenience fee to have a level site with hookups right on the freeway we're traveling on. Great video. We enjoy your channel.
We love your channel so much! Nicest people ever. Note: never stop learning AND sharing it with us!
We love the comedy routine. Thanks for letting the rest of not being newbie’ish. 😂❤Water valve; maybe pressure release, but also for filling up a water jug instead of watering the gravel.
So glad you showed me how to work the water in case I ever run it to that.
If you have anymore electrical problems check your in box seven way plug main connector near the back side of the bumper, moisture sometimes gets in that connection and will rust will get on the connector. Had the same problem and replace the harness easy fix and use electric grease on the connectors
Keep those shenanigans coming! That's why we all watch!😂
We did an overnight in southern KY at a Cracker Barrel and around 1:30am a crew showed up to sweep the parking lot with a truck sweeper and a dude with a leaf blower for about 90 minutes right outside of our rig. It was nuts!
I would love to see you guys travel to the upper pen. of Michigan for summer travel. Would love your views on upper mid west travel.
Quit camping 2 yrs ago. Between the all night Raves and no availability we gave up. Bought a cabin and do Airbnb trips. No more towing giant boxes behind us, no more 3am campground raves and zero booking issues. Life is good
Thanks Hanks for always keepin it real and lettin er rip!..Let’s face it, just like some camp grounds, some Loves RV Stops are better than others. We’ve experienced the good with the bad, but overall, you can’t beat them for an overnight 👍🏼🇺🇸
Had some issues with our 7 pin. Found that the tabs inside the plug had been bent ever so slightly, just enough to make an occasional "disconnect" with a road bump. Tweaked 'em all just a bit, problem solved with once again tight connections.
Thanks for posting this! Looks like a great overnight on a longer trip.
Odd thing on the water hydrant was probably a vacuum breaker to prevent water from flowing into the hydrant from the RV.
I had the same problem with my Dodge hookup. I found after checking everything, If you twist your cord just enough to make slight pressure in the plug twords front of truck it makes better connection on the break pin in the truck connector. It's the bottom right pin looking at the plug in.
Properly called "7 pin connector" or less accurate "7 way connector" (bc it's actually the opposite of a parallel connection like you find in a 3 way switch or battery connection, isolating the electrical connections rather than bridging them). But it's one of those things that morphs with time to weird names like "7 way pin" and loses the important descriptor "connector". Or we just throw every word in there... "7 way pin connector". Just a little nomenclature pet peeve.
Thanks for watching and pointing that out! We appreciate all your insight and help 😊
I do suggest doing a tugtest every time you back your truck up 2 ur 5th wheel... this ensures the claws grab the king..pin..is grabbed..tugtest is pulling foward to make sure your attached..Paul .....former truck driver
I absolutely LOVE you two! I love that you show me your struggles; the same struggles I have and feel goofy about. I’m grateful that I’m not the ONLY one 😂 I travel alone and usually have to look like a goofball by asking embarrassing questions to people around me. You did it on RUclips ❤ Thank you for helping me not feel like I’m the ONLY one that struggles with (sometimes) the obvious 😊
We had the same issue with our chevy truck dinging and saying check trailer brakes, then trailer brakes disconnected and right back to trailer brakes connected. First wheel I pulled off I found the trailer brake wire was not under the little clips to hold the wire in place and it got caught up in the brake arm and was being pinched when the brake arm moved. metal arm and metal brake drum pinched the wire until the insulation wore off and exposed the wire causing a short when the exposed wire touched the metal arm and brake drum. Fixed the brake wire and put it back under the wire clip holder. Fixed the problem and no more ding ding ding or dash board messages. no more loss of trailer brakes either.
The Loves RV stop in Cordele Georgia has about 30 or 40 sites with some pull through. Splash pad, pickle ball court, dog wash, laundry, showers, some have gas grills, and it’s all behind a gate. You check in online and they send you a code for the gate, and almost all the sites had full hook ups. We watched your other video on the Loves RV Stops and stayed there on the way to Florida. My wife kept saying “all this at a truckstop?”
I recently bought my first RV and I have learned so much from you guys! I love your videos. Thank you.❤
Love you guys! My husband and I have learned to just go with it. Figure it out and just laugh.
Love's Love's Love's all you need is Love's Love's Love's happy camping folks 😀
We love that you keep it real for us who are real just like you
It's called a pop-off valve, which doubles as an anti siphon valve. If it freezes it keeps the pipes from cracking and if you cut the water supply off it'll stop water from the rv from getting sucked into the water system and possible contamination.
Nope. It’s called a backflow preventer. It keeps rig water from back feeding into the municipal water system to prevent possible contamination.
@@williamvonkamp6709 backflow, anti-syphon,,,, pop-off,,,same thing, when pressure builds it pops there and stops water from entering the system. Just as I said🤣🤣🤣 but thanks for playing along 👉🤪
I had the same trailer brake issue with disconnecting. The problem is caused by the solar panels on the trailer charging the trailer batteries to a voltage higher than that of the truck battery. That higher voltage feeds back to the brake controller module in the truck and causes the disconnect problem. You'll probably notice that problem most frequently occurs on bright, sunny days when the solar panels are producing higher charging voltage. Mine always worked great on rainy or cloudy days. GM has a recall on the brake control module and will replace it at no charge, no questions ask.
16 minutes in. Still watching. Good to see you have the same problems we have, and you are 7 years in to camping!