Marc, I use a clear plastic Jiffy peanut butter jar for screws/washers. I like to be able to see what's inside and not have to guess lol. My Dad always kept his in glass baby food jars. He screwed the lids to the wood ceiling in his tool shed, then just screwed the glass jars into place. He could see what he was looking for in a jiffy. Nostalgia fact - those baby food jars were from my youngest Brother. Dad passed away in 2011 at the age of 90, and those baby food jars are still on the ceiling of his old tool shed. Thanks for sharing all your RV tips - they come in mighty handy.
I needed baby food jars for a project in around 2004 & the jar didn’t really screw in securely. I remember the ones from at least the 70s actually screwed on.
I am going in the reverse direction with my outside access areas. I prefer to have locks. It prevents mischievous campers from touching my controls and fresh water. Last year we did have an issue with teenagers coming around our trailer.
As far as hardware storage goes; when we were young I used baby formula cans with clear plastic lids. Now, for some reason, I find empty pill bottles much more plentiful!!! 😊
Marc and Trish, great video. Just an FYI, I was about to install the twist latches on our stabilizer and fresh water doors and noticed something important. When the door/latches are open they can make contact with the aluminum siding of the Airstream and scratch or dent it if. The locks that are factory installed won't do that. Just have to be very careful an not push the opened access door up against the side of your Airstream.
Funny story... ...I "still" (at 69 yrs old) have EVERY SINGLE leftover screw, nut, bolt, and washer I have ever collected since I was in my early 20's. - Seriously! Occasions have come up throughout the years where I have had needed to use many of them for projects and repairs. - NEVER EVER throw out even one of them - That size tin is a good start Marc! (Sorry Trish!) - Cheers!
We received a late friend’s collection from his widow. My husband was a lot more excited about it than I was. Dad always had tobacco & peanut butter tins full of them. He was a mechanical engineer & so he was hauling them around from 1946ish to 2015. We left them for the new owners of his shop🤣 BTW we rarely have ever used them!
What Garry says!! The day after you throw something away, you need it!! We have a drawer in the kitchen to catch all that, and we have several cans full of bolts, screws and nuts, as well as several nut and bolt storage bins, one set of which I inherited from my Dad, so it contains a lot of mil spec parts.
Lots of great little mods in this video. Our 2018 International also doesn’t have a smart TV. We added an Apple TV box for streaming. It works great. In fact, we’re watching you through the Apple TV right now! Take care and maybe we’ll meet on the road.
I've found the best screw and washer storage solution is the Harbor Freight STOREHOUSE 20-Bin Medium Portable Parts Storage Case. It's only $9.99 and has a clear lid so easy "finding parts" is at hand. I keep mine under our couch for quick retrieval.
Spare nuts, screws, bolts, etc go in a (cleaned) used peanut butter jar. I like having a screw-on top so it doesn't spill if tipped or dropped. Can't wait to see what's up for the year.
4:03 My truck camper has the exact same water fill port access door. A company named Global Link has an identical style locking or non-locking replacement for that door, which has a stubby offset cam arm. Global Link is the primary OEM lock supplier for most RV manufacturers. I opted to get the style that is keyed to match my entry door.
We use a motion sensing, rechargeable, dimmable nightlight in the bathroom. A plug-in requires shore power or using your inverter (which consumes even more battery capacity).
I love these "mini" DIY's is very handy. I did the same thumb locks on my outdoor locks; when I obtained mine they came with multiple tail pieces so I didn't have to modify them. Again keep up with the Tech videos.
Mod videos are always great……reminds me of repairs that yes I’ll start doing tomorrow Surely the LevelMate Pro is gonna get some love. Looking forward to the upcoming season!
For the RV I have a quart size heavy duty clear plastic container. Found out decades ago never throw out those parts because as soon as you do you will need them!!!!!
So exicted to see your travels with only one solar panel and 2 batteries (200amp hour??). - Since we can't afford a whole solar project - but our camper came with 100 watt solar and I've added 100ah battery and I am looking to add 2nd for our trip this year. Also - digging all the tech/how to videos. Thanks for all the advice and sharing your experience.
I used a plastic Yogurt container. Tip on the container of nuts & bolts; next time you buy something that has one of those moisture controlling packets (Silica gel etc...) drop a couple of them in that can. Otherwise you will end up with a can of rusty screws & washers. Ask me how I know... also my old container was a rusty coffee can. Love your videos/content; Safe travels & Blue Skyes.
The can or plastic bucket that you keep all your loose screws and nuts in, is properly called a Hellbucket. Because it hurts like hell to rummage around in there. This year I finally splurged and bought 3 "ice cube trays" prefilled online. One for SAE, one for Metric, the third for wall hangers and wood screws. All neatly sorted and easy to refill if I do use some up. Happy happy happy. And when I can, I match up used bolts and screws to the same size, or at least thread, as the new ones.
We love your “tech” videos more than the “other” stuff like where you go and such. We also like the campground setup stuff even though you see those over and over and over again. We use old miracle whip plastic jars with the blue lids to hold nuts and bolts and things because they’re clear they’re tough and you can see through them. We are headed down to Arizona to Florence in April, and then head back up by the Grand Canyon and through Nevada back to Walla Walla. If you guys are in or near Walla Walla this year, please look us up. We’ll have a barbecue and chat.
Hey I love the idea of replacement cam locks which I also did. One thing you might want to think about is putting them in so they are always in same direction when locked so you can do quick visual check before hitting the road.
Loose screws fit great in those flat fishing lure holder boxes too! They are (usually) configutable to allow for different size storage areas as well! Plus, you don't have to dig to find...or dump to fund the right screw. :)
Growing up on a farm, you always had a coffee can full of spare hardware. This was because not that long ago, big and small box hardware stores weren’t open late or on Sundays. Also, I wanted to mention, I see you have Charlie’s leash tied around the awning arm. Our 23 FB has a small hole on the bumper extension where I mounted a stainless steel eyelet to attach our dog’s leash to.
What timing! We had just started experiencing issues with our thermostat control box. Sometimes the air would come on, sometimes it wouldn't. This was like the day after watching this episode. I remembered that I saw our thermostat model when you displayed the website so I just went on and ordered a new one. By the way, thanks for your influence with the $15 discount. Bryan
I keep extra nuts, bolts, screws, etc., in a Folgers Coffee container! Amazing how often I need something in the container! Great video, as always! Thank you!
We utilize one of the cabinet areas over front windshield. They are narrow, but picked up a set of storage drawers. The unit is 4 drawers wide and 4 drawers tall. You can label each drawer. It makes the junk drawer vertical and keeps things organized. We have separate drawers for, pens, screws, keys, cards, etc.
Great stuff. I like your little "power pack". We travel with a jackery 500 which I assume is similar. It will run a CPAP for 3 nights without being recharged, and we have a jackery solar panel to recharge it with which really works well. The jackery also recharges phones, ipads, computers, rechargable lights etc. With 220 amphours of battery and a 110 watt solar panel it does us easily off grid for several nights. Cannot run AC, and clearly have to be in power conservation mode, but proof that you don't necessarily need a $10K system to enjoy the rig when electricity is not available. looking forward to your upcoming travels. We head out on our first big trip of 2024 exactly eight weeks from tomorrow am :) As always, safe travels......
Reminds me of my grandfather. He had several coffee and pipe tobacco cans filled to the brim with every little fastener and small part that he every touched
Congratulations on 400 episodes! Simple upgrades or mods can be the most rewarding. Spare screws are in a hardware store bag for now. Sitting in an overhead. Thank you for sharing and have a great day.
I hope Tori allows you to share a little of her wedding day with us ❤ I’m so happy for her and wish them all the best in their future together!!! I’m glad your getting your “home on the road” all fixed up with the little things that make life a little less frustrating and time savers in the long run ! Work smarter not harder, right ? You are so good at finding all the resources you need, any tips in finding me a Marc ? Hahahaha, I need one 😘 Blessings and safe travels!!!
We saw kids in an Rv park play with the levelers, run them up and down and at times run the jack down, so locks are not a bad idea I think. Even watched them turning hoses on and flooding our RV es
I guess anything is possible and that's why they come locked. I've even heard of people pulling hitch pins out. Crazy stuff. We're on the road for months at a time. I can't handle keys.
We use clear plastic containers with screw on tops. I wish I could attach a picture. They're similar to parmesan shakers but larger. I don't remember what was in them. They're about 6.5 tall and 3.5 in diameter. They hold an assortment of hose clamps, replacement fuses, signal bulbs, nut drivers, small screw drivers, bailing wire and left over extra screws.
I use a small Milwaukee packout. Keep button batteries, fuses, pec pipe clamps and of course nuts and screws. Not everywhere i go has a hardware store close so some small stuff to get me there helps.
First time watching your videos. You guys do a great job. Regarding having to keep the jacks down while in storage. I have learned the hard way that isn't a good idea. The problem is you can lose tire pressure which in return puts a lot of weight on the jacks and frame of the TT. It can bend them and or break them.
Make sure to take a look at the privacy settings on the new smart TV and adjust to your preferences. There's a reason TVs are so cheap - they're gathering a ton of user data and sending it back to the manufacturer to resale to data brokers.
Love the night lights, when we boondock my wife will use glow sticks and hang them around the camper. She suffers from vertigo, I couldn't get the reasoning but oh well. Until I had a bout of vertigo myself and now I get it. If your inner ear cant tell the brain which way is up you need to focus your eyes on something to help. Marc I purchased my house from my great Aunt and Uncle and I still have cigar boxes full of hardware! You just never know when you might need it!!
Fishing lure containers. That way I can keep them somewhat organized. At the house I use small or medium jars (jam, pickle etc). Screw the lids underneath and overhead cabinet in a row. Then I just grab the jar I want, twist it off the lid and twist it back on when done. This way I can see what’s in them also.
Kudos on the can.. not only the size (yes bigger IS better) but the time honored Cafe Du Monde Coffee & Chicory can is perfect. Growing up in south Louisiana, that can is commonplace for storage, love it!
Hey Marc and Trish (or anyone else reading this), Curious what you both do as far as security measures when you get to a camp site and leave for a few hours. Do you ever take off your TPMS sensors, lock up your hitch coupler, or do anything else? My wife and I are getting ready to begin some adventures this summer and it’s something that I’ve been thinking about. Guess I’m a little bit of a worrier. I’ve read about the CH751 keys/locks and how those are super common. Curious about what else people like to do.
I use AMSoil Metal protector or Fluid Film on all metal parts to keep them corroding, bolts, stabilizer jacks, etc. Keeps things from corroding like your water lock.
35mm camera roll holders work well for screws, nut and bolts. I used to be a DX driver for auto dealerships and we had to carry license plate tag bolts and screws. The clear cases worked very well!
We got our 20fb in 2021 with two AGM’s and one 90w solar panel. We replaced the AGM’s with two 125ah lithium batteries (they barely fit in the battery box) set the converter and solar controller to lithium and we were off to the races with no other changes (the batteries had built in Bluetooth monitors). After the first season we found that a second 90w solar panel made it much easier to charge the battery, run the fridge and arrive with fully charged batteries after a sunny day on the road. We have a 200w portable solar suitcase and when we are out west this keeps us fully charged. As part timers, this is all we need. Thanks for another great video.
True. We've stuck with Battleborn because they continue to stand behind their batteries and take care of the community. Naturally, issues happen and they provide A+ customer support. If I changed now, people would automatically think I don't like them anymore. So when something works - I stick with it.
I use one of those small plastic square bins that come in a set it is about a cup or so with the vacuum lid, 1 for change and 1 for random crap I find. when you own an airstream it is screws, rivets and those weird washers..LOL
One thing to add is that you shouldn't use a level in a trailer unless you know the trailer is perfectly level. it's better to "square" it off of something straight in the room, like the doorway. or make two marks on the wall off the floor. The thermostat company should make an escutcheon plate to go behind it and cover the holes up sort like nest thermostats come with. Great video!
I love you guys so much! I have learned so much watching your videos plus I love your positive and funny personalities, along with your sons! We bought our airstream a few months ago and are looking so forward to using some of these upgrades and getting out there and making memories! Keep up the great job!
I keep my spare nuts, bolts etc in a plastic peanut butter jar. It's a little quieter than a metal can plus it has a screw top that won't come off if it falls over accidentally.
Like to use 1qt or 1gal ziploc freezer bags (thicker/durable) to hold extraneous items. Can see what's in them and can collapse to the size of their contents...if you burp 'em.
Micro Air EasyStart for your Heat Pump / A/C is another must do upgrade that I have done multiple times. Those little night lights are awesome! I ordered some that last time you mentioned them.
Around Christmas, some grocery stores have Saran Wrap in red, I am wondering if a layer or two over the light would help to avoid waking up so thoroughly as the plain light would?
That’s a great idea @j.patrickmoore9137 ! I attend astronomy events, and I have been wondering how to turn my interior lights all red. My fellow astronomers will not look at me sideways now!
Re: the can with screws. In our fifth wheel my husband is always handing me spare "bits and bobs" usually left overs from something that we bought or replaced. Anyway, he always says, "here, put these somewhere." So I made a label for a small container that says, "SOMEWHERE". LOL
I learn so much from your videos❤ So when I noticed your paper towel holder, I thought I would return the favor! You may like to trade your paper towel hook for a ratcheting holder! there's different ones all over Amazon and the one I got was only about $10! Also, my grandfather had a mixed nut can of mixed nuts, washers screws and nails so I followed in his footsteps and use a old planters peanuts can! The stuff I save has saved me hours going to the hardware store....and yes my husband usually tells me to just throw it out 😄 Thank you for your awesome videos, they inspire me so much! And thanks to your video helpers who help my sister and I fixed her camper in Colorado springs ❤
I was a diesel mechanic for many years, i don't turn wrenches anymore but i still have my spare hardware buckets, yes, buckets. I have 2 five gallon buckets full of universal hardware and 3 or 4 one gallon buckets that are manufacturer specific hardware. Never get rid of your spare hardware!
MIcroAir makes great products. I used to be able to run my ac on TT with just a Honda 2200 genset but after about a year or two of getting age on the rig that became almost impossible. The Softstart by MicroAir was great in solving this problem. I will have to check out their line of thermostats as we travel with a dog. This was a very helpful vlog. Why would anyone put locks on their electric stabilizer switch??? Thanks and safe travels.
I store my screws and stuff in a small plastic food storage container with a lid. You may want to consider upgrading the furnace door and all the plastic exterior doors to stainless steel ones like what the Classic models have, especially if you are going to keep this rig for a long time.
Mark saying: "Chipping away at small D.Y.I. projects" & Trish saying at the end: "Stay out of my drawers (kitchen)" 💯😜😀. My father when he was alive used for all his screws, nuts - bolts was small tin cans (like the size you buy for cans of peanuts you eat) or 'canning jars' (see through but glass)👍. Love the look-see of living you are putting in with 'care' on this RV purchase💌😘. ☮️✌️
Didja know SnapPads are made in Calgary Alberta? They’re a Canadian company! We met them at our local RV show & was so thrilled to know we can get our SnapPads locally 💃
Hey Trish and Marc, really looking forward to your feedback on your current electrical system. We have a similar setup in our new rig and would love to hear how it performs prior to upgrading! Thanks
Hi Mark, my experience with just using those thumb locks without the key ones wasn’t great on long trips. They seem to eventually loosen and open up. I remember looking in my side mirror and seeing my hatch flapping around in the wind. I ended up putting a key lock back on. Hopefully you have better luck. Also would love to hear why you chose not to buy the new truck and keep your current one. Safe travels!
It’s a thingamajig can! One of the first things my dad taught me about home repair 😆 Trish is right though. Smaller for RV life. If it was sticks and bricks it would likely be too small though. - Angela
Years ago I purchased 2 of the large coffee cans full of screws, nuts, and air and water fittings from an old man that was moving to a retirement home. I can't even count the number of times that I have needed a part and the coffee cans provided it. It's like the widow's oil in the Bible, it never runs out.
Great content as always. Have you ever come across a key-less main entry door lock for Airstreams? I have one on our truck camper and wish I could find one for our Airstream as well. I do keep a spare key set hidden away but those key less locks are awesome.
I loved the RV Lock on our previous rigs, but I haven't found anything for an Airstream. Yet, the lock is so sturdy and solid, I'm okay with the that *one* key :)
You mentioned a few episodes ago about getting a new truck, then you backed out and decided to keep yours and do some maintenance or upgrades. When might that episode be coming out? We have the same truck as you and want to hear all about the decision to keep yours and what you did to it. Thanks and keep up the great rv content!
I'm trying to get in with summit 4x4 to replace my dual stabilizers that I showed at the end of the last video. If I can get that appointment before we hit the road, that would be a good opportunity to share why I passed and provide a "log" of all my maintenance. I really like my truck. Just got the rear cam replaced under warranty yesterday and turned the rotors.
Great video, I shared it to my email folder for camping info, along with the featured video at the end. We're getting closer to pulling the trigger on buying something, either a trailer or a van. Just got a new-to-me reconditioned Ecoflow Delta with an additional discount, which will definitely help as we move that direction.
Just curious if you have a high CFM fan in your shower. An important upgrade for us was replacing the pitiful low CFM fan with a MaxAir fan in the shower. Our RV had the MaxAir in the living and bedroom areas which are great but not the bathroom and shower. We can live with a low CFM fan in the bathroom but have found the MaxAir to be much more effective at drying the shower and the towels which we have on a hanger in the shower when not in use. Plus the cheap little fans have plastic gears that fail /strip once the lid gets stuck. Not a simple or fast upgrade and some may want a dealer to do the install but still feasible for the moderately skilled DIY'er with minimal tools you can do it in an afternoon. Thanks for all your tips. Love my snap pads!
Marc, I use a clear plastic Jiffy peanut butter jar for screws/washers. I like to be able to see what's inside and not have to guess lol. My Dad always kept his in glass baby food jars. He screwed the lids to the wood ceiling in his tool shed, then just screwed the glass jars into place. He could see what he was looking for in a jiffy. Nostalgia fact - those baby food jars were from my youngest Brother. Dad passed away in 2011 at the age of 90, and those baby food jars are still on the ceiling of his old tool shed. Thanks for sharing all your RV tips - they come in mighty handy.
I needed baby food jars for a project in around 2004 & the jar didn’t really screw in securely. I remember the ones from at least the 70s actually screwed on.
I am going in the reverse direction with my outside access areas. I prefer to have locks. It prevents mischievous campers from touching my controls and fresh water. Last year we did have an issue with teenagers coming around our trailer.
As far as hardware storage goes; when we were young I used baby formula cans with clear plastic lids. Now, for some reason, I find empty pill bottles much more plentiful!!! 😊
Oh that’s funny 😅
Marc and Trish, great video. Just an FYI, I was about to install the twist latches on our stabilizer and fresh water doors and noticed something important. When the door/latches are open they can make contact with the aluminum siding of the Airstream and scratch or dent it if. The locks that are factory installed won't do that. Just have to be very careful an not push the opened access door up against the side of your Airstream.
Funny story... ...I "still" (at 69 yrs old) have EVERY SINGLE leftover screw, nut, bolt, and washer I have ever collected since I was in my early 20's. - Seriously!
Occasions have come up throughout the years where I have had needed to use many of them for projects and repairs. - NEVER EVER throw out even one of them - That size tin is a good start Marc! (Sorry Trish!) - Cheers!
We received a late friend’s collection from his widow. My husband was a lot more excited about it than I was. Dad always had tobacco & peanut butter tins full of them. He was a mechanical engineer & so he was hauling them around from 1946ish to 2015. We left them for the new owners of his shop🤣
BTW we rarely have ever used them!
What Garry says!! The day after you throw something away, you need it!! We have a drawer in the kitchen to catch all that, and we have several cans full of bolts, screws and nuts, as well as several nut and bolt storage bins, one set of which I inherited from my Dad, so it contains a lot of mil spec parts.
Lots of great little mods in this video. Our 2018 International also doesn’t have a smart TV. We added an Apple TV box for streaming. It works great. In fact, we’re watching you through the Apple TV right now! Take care and maybe we’ll meet on the road.
Coffee can never throw away good stuff!!
I've found the best screw and washer storage solution is the Harbor Freight STOREHOUSE 20-Bin Medium Portable Parts Storage Case. It's only $9.99 and has a clear lid so easy "finding parts" is at hand. I keep mine under our couch for quick retrieval.
Do you have a link?
Spare nuts, screws, bolts, etc go in a (cleaned) used peanut butter jar. I like having a screw-on top so it doesn't spill if tipped or dropped.
Can't wait to see what's up for the year.
4:03 My truck camper has the exact same water fill port access door. A company named Global Link has an identical style locking or non-locking replacement for that door, which has a stubby offset cam arm. Global Link is the primary OEM lock supplier for most RV manufacturers. I opted to get the style that is keyed to match my entry door.
Just left Ronnie’s. And he is EXCEPTIONAL in all areas. So thrilled with all our upgrades.
We use a motion sensing, rechargeable, dimmable nightlight in the bathroom. A plug-in requires shore power or using your inverter (which consumes even more battery capacity).
I love these "mini" DIY's is very handy. I did the same thumb locks on my outdoor locks; when I obtained mine they came with multiple tail pieces so I didn't have to modify them. Again keep up with the Tech videos.
Do you remember where you bought them.
Mod videos are always great……reminds me of repairs that yes I’ll start doing tomorrow Surely the LevelMate Pro is gonna get some love. Looking forward to the upcoming season!
happy Sunday friends!! sending you all love this week!
For the RV I have a quart size heavy duty clear plastic container. Found out decades ago never throw out those parts because as soon as you do you will need them!!!!!
your so lucky both of you like to be around each other and i have never heard any put downs by either of you about the other
So exicted to see your travels with only one solar panel and 2 batteries (200amp hour??). - Since we can't afford a whole solar project - but our camper came with 100 watt solar and I've added 100ah battery and I am looking to add 2nd for our trip this year. Also - digging all the tech/how to videos. Thanks for all the advice and sharing your experience.
Cool. We really enjoy dry camping and not being at RV parks, so we'll see if we can pull this off for the first month of travel.
Thanks for the practical, upgrades. One video, I would appreciate is on how to set up your brake controller.
Talenti Gelato containers- great for the left over screws. They are clear so it is easier to find the one that you need.
Ditto!
I used a plastic Yogurt container. Tip on the container of nuts & bolts; next time you buy something that has one of those moisture controlling packets (Silica gel etc...) drop a couple of them in that can. Otherwise you will end up with a can of rusty screws & washers. Ask me how I know... also my old container was a rusty coffee can. Love your videos/content; Safe travels & Blue Skyes.
Great imformation will help a lot of us. Have a blessed week!
The can or plastic bucket that you keep all your loose screws and nuts in, is properly called a Hellbucket. Because it hurts like hell to rummage around in there. This year I finally splurged and bought 3 "ice cube trays" prefilled online. One for SAE, one for Metric, the third for wall hangers and wood screws. All neatly sorted and easy to refill if I do use some up. Happy happy happy. And when I can, I match up used bolts and screws to the same size, or at least thread, as the new ones.
Enjoy watching the excitement in you eyes. You guys are over the top.
Hell ya. I got mine in the same type of can ! Stand fast with your extra screws and washers!!
I keep spare nuts bolts and screws in a Costco Mixed Nuts container. So far, I have 3 of them full. Have I ever used any? Maybe 3 times in 10 years...
We just got our 2024 GT 30' FBT :) its such an amazing rig coming from a Flying Cloud. Safe travels!! Looking forward to all your mods lol.
We love your “tech” videos more than the “other” stuff like where you go and such. We also like the campground setup stuff even though you see those over and over and over again. We use old miracle whip plastic jars with the blue lids to hold nuts and bolts and things because they’re clear they’re tough and you can see through them. We are headed down to Arizona to Florence in April, and then head back up by the Grand Canyon and through Nevada back to Walla Walla. If you guys are in or near Walla Walla this year, please look us up. We’ll have a barbecue and chat.
We keep our loose screws (and we have a few) in a Tupperware container along with spare change and laundry quarters.
Hey I love the idea of replacement cam locks which I also did. One thing you might want to think about is putting them in so they are always in same direction when locked so you can do quick visual check before hitting the road.
Trish commented on that too. I went back to change it, but it was giving me grief.
Loose screws fit great in those flat fishing lure holder boxes too! They are (usually) configutable to allow for different size storage areas as well! Plus, you don't have to dig to find...or dump to fund the right screw. :)
Growing up on a farm, you always had a coffee can full of spare hardware. This was because not that long ago, big and small box hardware stores weren’t open late or on Sundays. Also, I wanted to mention, I see you have Charlie’s leash tied around the awning arm. Our 23 FB has a small hole on the bumper extension where I mounted a stainless steel eyelet to attach our dog’s leash to.
Looking forward to more mods! I need to do some of these little small things too and appreciate these little tidbits !
The little ones make a difference.
Are you happy with that TV you installed in this video? I’m shopping for smart tv for our rig bedroom right now. Thank you
What timing! We had just started experiencing issues with our thermostat control box. Sometimes the air would come on, sometimes it wouldn't. This was like the day after watching this episode. I remembered that I saw our thermostat model when you displayed the website so I just went on and ordered a new one. By the way, thanks for your influence with the $15 discount. Bryan
Spare parts in a spice jar.
As a quilter, I have a glass spice jar in my studio for pins and needles that need to be tossed.
I keep extra nuts, bolts, screws, etc., in a Folgers Coffee container! Amazing how often I need something in the container! Great video, as always! Thank you!
Best part of waking up. ☕️
I do the same, I use the small ones, the 9.6 oz size!
I keep mine in the trays of a tackle box, with small tools in the bottom.
Marc, I like to keep loose screws and bolts in a Harbor Freight magnetic bowl. You can even turn the bowl sideways and they don't fall out!
In addition to the bowl, if you have old prescription bottles for pills you can also use those also instead of throwing them in the trash.
We utilize one of the cabinet areas over front windshield. They are narrow, but picked up a set of storage drawers. The unit is 4 drawers wide and 4 drawers tall. You can label each drawer. It makes the junk drawer vertical and keeps things organized. We have separate drawers for, pens, screws, keys, cards, etc.
All of the thumb locks I have purchased from local hardware stores have come with multiple tabs that you can swap out. mY e best to look for those.
Great stuff. I like your little "power pack". We travel with a jackery 500 which I assume is similar. It will run a CPAP for 3 nights without being recharged, and we have a jackery solar panel to recharge it with which really works well. The jackery also recharges phones, ipads, computers, rechargable lights etc. With 220 amphours of battery and a 110 watt solar panel it does us easily off grid for several nights. Cannot run AC, and clearly have to be in power conservation mode, but proof that you don't necessarily need a $10K system to enjoy the rig when electricity is not available. looking forward to your upcoming travels. We head out on our first big trip of 2024 exactly eight weeks from tomorrow am :) As always, safe travels......
Yes, very similar. Thanks for that info. I had no ideas CPAP draws such little amperage. Good to know.
Reminds me of my grandfather. He had several coffee and pipe tobacco cans filled to the brim with every little fastener and small part that he every touched
Congratulations on 400 episodes! Simple upgrades or mods can be the most rewarding. Spare screws are in a hardware store bag for now. Sitting in an overhead. Thank you for sharing and have a great day.
I hope Tori allows you to share a little of her wedding day with us ❤ I’m so happy for her and wish them all the best in their future together!!!
I’m glad your getting your “home on the road” all fixed up with the little things that make life a little less frustrating and time savers in the long run ! Work smarter not harder, right ?
You are so good at finding all the resources you need, any tips in finding me a Marc ? Hahahaha, I need one 😘
Blessings and safe travels!!!
We saw kids in an Rv park play with the levelers, run them up and down and at times run the jack down, so locks are not a bad idea I think.
Even watched them turning hoses on and flooding our RV es
I guess anything is possible and that's why they come locked. I've even heard of people pulling hitch pins out. Crazy stuff. We're on the road for months at a time. I can't handle keys.
We use clear plastic containers with screw on tops. I wish I could attach a picture. They're similar to parmesan shakers but larger. I don't remember what was in them. They're about 6.5 tall and 3.5 in diameter. They hold an assortment of hose clamps, replacement fuses, signal bulbs, nut drivers, small screw drivers, bailing wire and left over extra screws.
To be quite honest, your message and the way you present it are the best or there. Relatable and accurate.
I use a small Milwaukee packout. Keep button batteries, fuses, pec pipe clamps and of course nuts and screws. Not everywhere i go has a hardware store close so some small stuff to get me there helps.
First time watching your videos. You guys do a great job. Regarding having to keep the jacks down while in storage. I have learned the hard way that isn't a good idea. The problem is you can lose tire pressure which in return puts a lot of weight on the jacks and frame of the TT. It can bend them and or break them.
Make sure to take a look at the privacy settings on the new smart TV and adjust to your preferences. There's a reason TVs are so cheap - they're gathering a ton of user data and sending it back to the manufacturer to resale to data brokers.
Mark i use to do coffee cans but I buy the choc-coverd- raisnes for costco now I can see all the way around the container game changer.
Love the night lights, when we boondock my wife will use glow sticks and hang them around the camper. She suffers from vertigo, I couldn't get the reasoning but oh well. Until I had a bout of vertigo myself and now I get it. If your inner ear cant tell the brain which way is up you need to focus your eyes on something to help.
Marc I purchased my house from my great Aunt and Uncle and I still have cigar boxes full of hardware! You just never know when you might need it!!
Do you know about The Eply Maneuver for Vertigo? If not, You can look online. I just had to do it this morning when I got all dizzy. It works.
I have more than a few small bins in my Milwaukee pack out box filled with leftover nuts, screws, washers etc. I feel you!
Fishing lure containers. That way I can keep them somewhat organized. At the house I use small or medium jars (jam, pickle etc). Screw the lids underneath and overhead cabinet in a row. Then I just grab the jar I want, twist it off the lid and twist it back on when done. This way I can see what’s in them also.
Kudos on the can.. not only the size (yes bigger IS better) but the time honored Cafe Du Monde Coffee & Chicory can is perfect. Growing up in south Louisiana, that can is commonplace for storage, love it!
LOVE the loose screw, nut, washer storage idea!!!
Hey Marc and Trish (or anyone else reading this),
Curious what you both do as far as security measures when you get to a camp site and leave for a few hours.
Do you ever take off your TPMS sensors, lock up your hitch coupler, or do anything else? My wife and I are getting ready to begin some adventures this summer and it’s something that I’ve been thinking about. Guess I’m a little bit of a worrier. I’ve read about the CH751 keys/locks and how those are super common. Curious about what else people like to do.
Mark, very nice reaction time when that impact twisted the lock out of your fingers. Good to see no broken fingers.
Haha. Yeah, that was a bit tighter than I thought.
Been there
I did notice the quick cutaway, and knew exactly what happened. 👀
Been enjoying your videos for several years. Thanks for continuing to create them. Always fun and educational.
I use AMSoil Metal protector or Fluid Film on all metal parts to keep them corroding, bolts, stabilizer jacks, etc. Keeps things from corroding like your water lock.
I’m impressed you found a metal coffee can! For nostalgic reasons, I LOVE it! My father had multiple cans of “loose nuts” in the garage. 👍
35mm camera roll holders work well for screws, nut and bolts. I used to be a DX driver for auto dealerships and we had to carry license plate tag bolts and screws. The clear cases worked very well!
I use a small Tupperware container for all my nuts and bolts. Thanks for another great video!
I use the medium size Folger coffee tubs for mine. Have others in small Slim Fast tubs. Works wonder and they are labeled too.
We got our 20fb in 2021 with two AGM’s and one 90w solar panel. We replaced the AGM’s with two 125ah lithium batteries (they barely fit in the battery box) set the converter and solar controller to lithium and we were off to the races with no other changes (the batteries had built in Bluetooth monitors). After the first season we found that a second 90w solar panel made it much easier to charge the battery, run the fridge and arrive with fully charged batteries after a sunny day on the road. We have a 200w portable solar suitcase and when we are out west this keeps us fully charged. As part timers, this is all we need. Thanks for another great video.
I know you probably have a deal with Battleborn, but there are so many options now for lithium batteries.
True. We've stuck with Battleborn because they continue to stand behind their batteries and take care of the community. Naturally, issues happen and they provide A+ customer support. If I changed now, people would automatically think I don't like them anymore. So when something works - I stick with it.
Great episode per usual. For my loose nuts and screws I use Costco Parmesan containers. They are clear with a screw top.
I use one of those small plastic square bins that come in a set it is about a cup or so with the vacuum lid, 1 for change and 1 for random crap I find. when you own an airstream it is screws, rivets and those weird washers..LOL
One thing to add is that you shouldn't use a level in a trailer unless you know the trailer is perfectly level. it's better to "square" it off of something straight in the room, like the doorway. or make two marks on the wall off the floor. The thermostat company should make an escutcheon plate to go behind it and cover the holes up sort like nest thermostats come with. Great video!
Such a good point. And I had my speed square too. I wish I would have mentioned that.
I love you guys so much! I have learned so much watching your videos plus I love your positive and funny personalities, along with your sons! We bought our airstream a few months ago and are looking so forward to using some of these upgrades and getting out there and making memories! Keep up the great job!
I keep my spare nuts, bolts etc in a plastic peanut butter jar. It's a little quieter than a metal can plus it has a screw top that won't come off if it falls over accidentally.
Like to use 1qt or 1gal ziploc freezer bags (thicker/durable) to hold extraneous items. Can see what's in them and can collapse to the size of their contents...if you burp 'em.
A milwaukee packout to keep extra nuts and screws and small parts. 5 bin to start, maybe 10 bin later. Great video, Thanks for sharing!
Micro Air EasyStart for your Heat Pump / A/C is another must do upgrade that I have done multiple times.
Those little night lights are awesome! I ordered some that last time you mentioned them.
Yes, we had them on both units on our Flying Cloud. I'm sure we'll do the same to this one.
Around Christmas, some grocery stores have Saran Wrap in red, I am wondering if a layer or two over the light would help to avoid waking up so thoroughly as the plain light would?
That’s a great idea @j.patrickmoore9137 ! I attend astronomy events, and I have been wondering how to turn my interior lights all red. My fellow astronomers will not look at me sideways now!
Re: the can with screws. In our fifth wheel my husband is always handing me spare "bits and bobs" usually left overs from something that we bought or replaced. Anyway, he always says, "here, put these somewhere." So I made a label for a small container that says, "SOMEWHERE". LOL
I learn so much from your videos❤ So when I noticed your paper towel holder, I thought I would return the favor! You may like to trade your paper towel hook for a ratcheting holder! there's different ones all over Amazon and the one I got was only about $10! Also, my grandfather had a mixed nut can of mixed nuts, washers screws and nails so I followed in his footsteps and use a old planters peanuts can! The stuff I save has saved me hours going to the hardware store....and yes my husband usually tells me to just throw it out 😄 Thank you for your awesome videos, they inspire me so much! And thanks to your video helpers who help my sister and I fixed her camper in Colorado springs ❤
You guys look like you're having fun setting up the "new to you" Airstream. 😃
Half pint (about to move up to a 1 pint jar) mason jar with a paper towel to keep it quiet
I was a diesel mechanic for many years, i don't turn wrenches anymore but i still have my spare hardware buckets, yes, buckets.
I have 2 five gallon buckets full of universal hardware and 3 or 4 one gallon buckets that are manufacturer specific hardware.
Never get rid of your spare hardware!
If you're really tight on space for the screws/nuts/washers maybe use one or more Altoids cans.
MIcroAir makes great products. I used to be able to run my ac on TT with just a Honda 2200 genset but after about a year or two of getting age on the rig that became almost impossible. The Softstart by MicroAir was great in solving this problem. I will have to check out their line of thermostats as we travel with a dog. This was a very helpful vlog. Why would anyone put locks on their electric stabilizer switch??? Thanks and safe travels.
I store my screws and stuff in a small plastic food storage container with a lid. You may want to consider upgrading the furnace door and all the plastic exterior doors to stainless steel ones like what the Classic models have, especially if you are going to keep this rig for a long time.
We’ve been eyeing the thermostat for awhile now and just ordered with your discount code. Will be nice to monitor it while away. Thanks.
We use a small plastic container for the left over parts. I think it was a skippy peanut butter container.
I use a little plastic Folgers coffee container for loose hardware. They are the 9.6 oz size.
Mark saying: "Chipping away at small D.Y.I. projects" & Trish saying at the end: "Stay out of my drawers (kitchen)" 💯😜😀. My father when he was alive used for all his screws, nuts - bolts was small tin cans (like the size you buy for cans of peanuts you eat) or 'canning jars' (see through but glass)👍. Love the look-see of living you are putting in with 'care' on this RV purchase💌😘. ☮️✌️
Didja know SnapPads are made in Calgary Alberta? They’re a Canadian company! We met them at our local RV show & was so thrilled to know we can get our SnapPads locally 💃
Love the diy things your doing. Looking forward to next video and hearing about why you didnt swap trucks.
Hey Trish and Marc, really looking forward to your feedback on your current electrical system. We have a similar setup in our new rig and would love to hear how it performs prior to upgrading! Thanks
always look forward to learning from these
Hi Mark, my experience with just using those thumb locks without the key ones wasn’t great on long trips. They seem to eventually loosen and open up. I remember looking in my side mirror and seeing my hatch flapping around in the wind. I ended up putting a key lock back on. Hopefully you have better luck. Also would love to hear why you chose not to buy the new truck and keep your current one. Safe travels!
It’s a thingamajig can! One of the first things my dad taught me about home repair 😆 Trish is right though. Smaller for RV life. If it was sticks and bricks it would likely be too small though. - Angela
I use a parachute tool bag. Separate sections and no rattling.
Years ago I purchased 2 of the large coffee cans full of screws, nuts, and air and water fittings from an old man that was moving to a retirement home. I can't even count the number of times that I have needed a part and the coffee cans provided it. It's like the widow's oil in the Bible, it never runs out.
Great content as always. Have you ever come across a key-less main entry door lock for Airstreams? I have one on our truck camper and wish I could find one for our Airstream as well. I do keep a spare key set hidden away but those key less locks are awesome.
I loved the RV Lock on our previous rigs, but I haven't found anything for an Airstream. Yet, the lock is so sturdy and solid, I'm okay with the that *one* key :)
i'm literally demo stage on our reflection 312bhts and i have screws in draws, sinks, pockets....getting stuck under slide floors!! tin approved!!
Cafe du monde coffee can!!! Straight out of New Orleans❤️
You mentioned a few episodes ago about getting a new truck, then you backed out and decided to keep yours and do some maintenance or upgrades. When might that episode be coming out? We have the same truck as you and want to hear all about the decision to keep yours and what you did to it. Thanks and keep up the great rv content!
I'm trying to get in with summit 4x4 to replace my dual stabilizers that I showed at the end of the last video. If I can get that appointment before we hit the road, that would be a good opportunity to share why I passed and provide a "log" of all my maintenance. I really like my truck. Just got the rear cam replaced under warranty yesterday and turned the rotors.
How was it covered under warranty I have the same truck and my camera is also going what steps did you take to cover it through warranty
@@markdibiasio8101 There is a recall on several of the cameras. Check your VIN with Ford and if yours is part of the recall, it's a free replacement.
I liked the way you tackled those MODs like a true diy'er lol
@@markdibiasio8101the camera(s) are actually recall items not a warranty.
Great video, I shared it to my email folder for camping info, along with the featured video at the end. We're getting closer to pulling the trigger on buying something, either a trailer or a van. Just got a new-to-me reconditioned Ecoflow Delta with an additional discount, which will definitely help as we move that direction.
Just curious if you have a high CFM fan in your shower. An important upgrade for us was replacing the pitiful low CFM fan with a MaxAir fan in the shower. Our RV had the MaxAir in the living and bedroom areas which are great but not the bathroom and shower. We can live with a low CFM fan in the bathroom but have found the MaxAir to be much more effective at drying the shower and the towels which we have on a hanger in the shower when not in use. Plus the cheap little fans have plastic gears that fail /strip once the lid gets stuck. Not a simple or fast upgrade and some may want a dealer to do the install but still feasible for the moderately skilled DIY'er with minimal tools you can do it in an afternoon. Thanks for all your tips. Love my snap pads!