Sorry I don't know how to, but there is a way to set up the amazon link so that I (a canuck) will get amazon.ca and you yanks get amazon.com. I think Mark of Keep Your Daydream mentions it in his How To Start a RUclips Channel course.
.....???? FAR BE IT FOR ME TO HAVE ANY RIGHT TO DEBATE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES AND SINCE AS WE ALL HAVE COME TO LEARN ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIAS LIKE RUclips ONE MUST NEVER QUESTION WHEN IN DOUBT NOR ATTEMPT TO USE RESPECTFUL 'CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM' ON THESE PLATFORMS. SO I'LL DIGRESS AND REFRAIN FROM CROSSING THE BORDERS AND BOUNDARIES TO AVOID DISCONTENT FROM THE MASSIVE MOVEMENT OF THE 'YES' SOCIETY THAT SIMPLY AGREE WITHOUT QUESTION AND SUPPORT FINANCIALLY WITH NO DEGREE GIVEN TO THOUGHT. WE WERE NEVER TROLLS,HATERS,JEALOUS JUST OPINIONATED,TRUTHFUL AND DOUBTFUL, TODAY WE ARE...JUST MUTED. IT'S A SAD STRANGE WORLD WHERE OUR HIGHLY ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY HAS SHIFTED COURSE FROM HELPING US TO PROGRESS AND PUT INTO PLACE A SHIELD OF SILENCE WITH NO RESPECT TO FREEDOM OF SPEECH IN AMERICA. WE ARE ROBOTS COMPELLED TO ONLY AGREE, WE ARE LOST IN A LAND I ONCE KNEW AS AMERICA...,WE ARE DEAD AND DON'T EVEN CARE. JUST GIVE ME MONEY... FOR IT IS WRITTEN AND PROGRAMMED IN EVERY SINGLE ROBOT ON EARTH TO WORSHIP AT THE CHURCH AND ALTAR OF THE AMIGHTY PRINTED GOD. SO LET'S ALL BOW AND KNEEL IN SILENT PRAYER THAT OUR SAVIOR,CREATOR THE ALMIGHTY DOLLAR CONTINUES TO NOURISH US,PROTECT US AND BLESS US WITH MORE THAN WE ALREADY HAVE OR NEED...AMEN. YOU CAN PROCEED WITH ACTIVATION MODE TO BLOCK IT IS AN ILLOGICAL DEFENCE MECHANISM THAT KEEPS THE ROBOT POPULATION ON RUclips FROM THOUGHT OR ATTEMPT TO DISAGREE WITH YOUR THOUGHTS,NEEDS AND BELIEFS. AND THIS COMMENT WILL BE SHORT-CIRCUITED TO NEVER BE SEEN NOR READ ON THIS CHANNEL IN 1...2...3 ...MEEOWS ۩
Dang! I'm so sorry that happened to y'all! I really hope someone saw the thief and reported it. We had an item stolen out of our car once. We filed a police report and several months later we received a call from the police department saying they had the item in their possession and we could pick it up. Don't lose hope. I love that y'all were able to put things in perspective and stay positive in a negative situation. Enjoy your weekend & continue to count your blessings! Thanks for sharing your ups and downs with us!
That totally sucks guys, especially that horrible feeling of being violated. So sorry. You certainly have had a wide range of experiences in your travels.
Thank you for sharing this upsetting experience with us all. I know losses due to thefts take a bit of the shine off of traveling, but hopefully this will just help you feel wiser rather than sadder. You two are such optimistic people that I think it will end up by strengthening you. Also, you have undoubtedly prevented a whole bunch of us from having a similar experience by having shared it with us. Now we'll all be extra vigilant! I think you'll have a great time being keynote speakers and that all of those fortunate enough to get to attend will really enjoy this right along with you. Keep your hearts up!
I have heard of people getting stuff stolen while refueling. I tend to overdue in that I double lock everything and even triple lock our bikes on the towed. (We have a motorhome) I had a guy laugh at me at a fueling station saying," Do ya think ya got enough locks on your bikes?" I replied, "Not in today's society." We actually have alarm locks on them.
Good for you, Roy Davis! We do have a society that has a large problem with "sticky fingers". Gas stations have long been a problem for ladies having their purses stolen off of the car seats on the passenger side while they are filling their car's gas tanks. I usually put my purse on the floor of the driver's side while fueling or wear it. Also I watch my surroundings like a hawk whenever out in public. My entire family is very pro law enforcement and several of us are LEOs, consequently we're a watchful clan. :D
garden quilts, I don’t care what people think around me, I lock my doors while fueling, and I put my purse on the floor like you do. I’ve been known to test my daughter on her surroundings when she least expects it. I will ask questions such as give a description of the vehicle or what color clothes were they wearing. Did they have glasses or a mustache. As the years have progressed (she’s only 14), she’s gotten quite good. Of course, we get days when she is completely oblivious. Her worse times are when we’re moving in a vehicle and her best is when we’re stopped. Don’t let her in on this, but it’s gotten me to be more aware than ever before. Plus, I still get times when I’m completely oblivious too. Always room for improvement on that, always.
I'd love to catch someone stealing something of mine, I'd pull my gun and put them to the ground as a threat until the police arrive. As a former corrections officer the police are tolerant , the person may be a little banged up from resisting me . Shit happens ,criminals and thieves should be 1880s justice really
True, even in cars through the door opposite the fuel side. Purses on the center console are especially vulnerable. Keep your valuables in sight or lock it up.
So sorry this happened to you two. John, it wasn’t your fault - a bad person stole from you. When we’re in a hurry we forget things like the extra locks. Happens to all of us. Thank you for sharing the good, the bad and the ugly. Have fun in Shipshewana! There is an RV / MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart Indiana you should visit while in the area.
So sorry to hear about your generator being stolen . It’s not your fault that these low life’s are just waiting for an opportunity. God bless you both and thank you for sharing. We are going to hit the road soon on our airstream that we purchased for our retirement and are now more knowledgeable about safety❤️
Appreciate your kind words. I feel like those saying "it's our fault" makes the theft justified. That being said, now we'll be doing things differently
I am so sorry to hear your generator got stolen! What an uneasy feeling someone took it especially while you were in your vehicle. Expensive lessons... so frustrating! 😬 Looking forward to seeing you this weekend! Safe travels guys!
Expensive lesson that can be worse if you lose the other generator due to the use of a cable lock. Don’t chance it again use a chain! Unfortunately the RV age of curtesy is gone. My wifey calls me Locky Lockerson because I lock everything down, even if I walk away from a motor home tool cabinet to work on something on the other side. If you had jumped out to stop them thieves stealing, you could of lost something else...your life! I was a campground host in four different campgrounds and there is some very mean folks out there that don’t regard life or your property. They want it? Make them bring a blowtorch!
I just started my pre RV buy research. I will be living full time (retirement) your videos are helping me so much. I have visited 2 dealers and am going to look in Mississippi Florida and North Carolina as well. My new favorite saying is slow your roll. No emotional purchases. I will review these videos and take notes. Someone should warn the dealerships that I am coming, prepared with my new knowledge and ready to go. LOL Thank you both 💕
Sorry to hear about your loss my friends. Generators are such a hot item to be stolen. They literally need to be chained up at all times. I was watching a tv show about a couple gold prospecting in Aussie and they were in the middle of nowhere. They had their generator beside their caravan and were prospecting only a short distance away and when they came back their generator was stolen so someone had to be watching them for them to do this. Take care mates and always praying for you 😊
Bless y’all hearts. So sorry this happened to y’all. Very crazy that they stole this generator right off your rig while in motion. Sorry y’all were sick. Hope you’re feeling better soon. Take care and safe travels
So glad that for our 7 years on the road we kept our generator Chained and Locked! We made our share of mistakes while traveling, it goes with the territory and some of them were not too cheap. I appreciate your honesty in all that you do and your really great attitude.
Similar thing happened to a young couple with a similar type RV travel channel. Lock cable cut and 2 bikes taken WHILE they were in their conversion van... Advice from veteran motorcycle touring...cover it... out of mind, out of sight... In the worst neighborhoods, (parts of Tampa/Miami) I used to put a sign on the bike, "For Sale, blown motor, make offer"... No thief is interested in stealing a broken motorcycle... worked like a charm.
Just keep your eyes out every where we go. It does not matter if a safest place on earth. Thank you very much for sharing. I wish whoever stole your generator watch your youtube and will shame out of his or herself.
It is so sad to think someone would be that cruel and feel desperate enough to steal. It is a reminder to us all to be so careful. And, thanks for the uplift reminding us that there are those having a much more difficult time than we may be. Blessings to you both.
It sucks this is the world we live in! Hubs has worked with Oregon State Parks for 30 years and has taken too many reports from campers saying, "Our stuff has been stolen!". I used to think he was being overly cautious by locking everything up ALL THE TIME. After watching this video, however, I will never complain or be annoyed again with regards to his locking things up routine. New to your channel and an looking forward to all the info you so honestly and thoroughly provide. We'll be full-timers when hubs retires in 6 years. 🙂
My friends I am sorry that happened to you. Cable lock would help, but it is not the full solution. Most dishonest people carry a good bolt cutter with them. The best thing you can do, is not let them see valuable items. Cheap way a tarp. Make sure you lay it on the bottom of the basket first. So wind can not get under it. Cable lock the generator, and fold the tarp over everything. Now cargo strap the tarp in place tightly. Out of sight out of mind. At least it makes it too time consuming to get you at a traffic light.
I am going to be the skeptic here and I know you and others will disagree, but I have a hard time believing someone would run out of their vehicle at a stop light, remove straps from a generator that weighs over 100 pounds, take it back to their vehicle, throw it in before the light changed, and all while in traffic where the least someone would do is honk their horn if this actually happened. It is pretty unreasonable and seems more likely that the strap(s) came loose when bouncing through construction areas and flew off. The rear end of a TT is probably the bounciest part, and it happens often enough to be commonplace. The other reasonable possibility is that it was stolen while you were parked somewhere and you didn't notice. My other comment is as retired law enforcement, with all the crime and limited resources it is common for certain crimes to be online reported. This frees up officers to attend to serious crimes such as violent crimes and those where citizens are in danger. Sad to say, but your report will most likely never be investigated and will be closed due to lack of evidence/leads. Again, if you knew how many crimes occur and how many criminal reports come through in a typical year you'd understand. The cops need to be available to handle high priority calls and cases. Just a fact.
Thank you for your service. You're right, resources are limited and there are those that need law enforcement's help more urgently. It could always be worse!
Years ago, a high school classmate of mine's father was shot in broad daylight in a large city. His parents were taking a microwave oven to him at college. The box was in the partly open (tied down) trunk. A thug tried to steal it while they were stopped at a downtown traffic light. His father jumped out to stop the guy, and the would-be thief fatally shot him. This was over 40 years ago... imagine today!
There is a video, in London, of two expensive bikes on a Mini...and this bloke, is racing up to them in traffic, at red lights...and can actually be seen, TRYING to unstrap and steal the bike RIGHT OFF OF THE MINI's back end! It was being filmed by a dash mount on another vehicle. Whether that vehicle's owner was calling the London cops...you don't know...but at least there were five attempts to steal the bike right off the Mini. If I can find that you tube video...I'll post it, back here...or you can try to find it yourself...and yes...thieves are criminals....they would steal the gold tooth from your corpse.... and here is the vid...... Get ready to have your jaw hit the floor! ruclips.net/video/CBn_HCTZiYc/видео.html
Someone else I know thought someone stole their property, after reviewing their video footage, they realized the object actually flew out of their RV....it wasn't stolen. The odds of someone stealing your generator while driving in traffic without anyone letting you know is very low. Chalk it up to a loss. Mercedes, if law enforcement didn't have a dollar limit, they would have to triple the number of police officers in every department, not conducive. Sorry this happened to you. GOD Bless. 🙏
I don't buy that "not enough manpower" argument. If they have enough cops to write tickets for not having a front license plate or for rolling through a stop sign when no one else is around, they have enough officers to be able to take a police report for theft in person.
Thank you for your service Cindy. We thought that too, in fact, we'd rather think it fell off. But the other items in the basket were undisturbed. Unfortunately you're right! It's so pervasive, they need a dollar limit. Appreciate your support and understanding.
Doesn't mean anything? The generator could have easily busted the straps, flew out, while the light weight items remained undisturbed. It happens all the time, simple physics.
Mercedes had a light flashing around her sad face. So sorry to hear of your loss. I had a cargo door on my MH pop open after hitting some potholes in Pa. and my extension ladder slid out jut enough to touch the highway. But the good part was I had fastened it with a cable. And I have cargo door alarms. So I made a quick stop and only lost an 1/8 off a inch of the ladder. The small toolbox that was next to the ladder I never did find. We only due 7 months on the road a year. Stay safe. We enjoy your channel.
Oh my goodness...I have that same cargo carrier and I had mine welded into a basket so our generator doesn't get stolen, it's welded nice and sturdy with a lock but now I wanna double lock it down inside as well. Great tips.
Always assume that everyone is trying to steal from you. You don't have to be jerks, but you must keep your guard up at all times. Many people say that I am paranoid and I'm ok with that. As a physical security, protection and anti=-terrorism officer I can't help but always look at things from the perspective that people are going to try to get me. I live very happy and I enjoy life and that great earth that God has given us so the point is to enjoy but be viginlat 100% of the time.
Oh bro, I agree with you 100% ,I've been called paranoid by a friend, but I don't walk around in life with blinders on like a lot of peeps do, an I live a happy life also this way, barring natural disasters I avoid an can smell trouble coming an have learned to trust my spidey Sense's to the max, an have taught my wife "AWARENESS" training also.
There's a regular poster on RV.net, who has a total of SEVEN locks on his B&W puck-mounted hitch. One on each puck mount, one on each of the head pins and one on the king pin release.
MY WORD!!! From 2:01 to 2:38 ( plus) I would have sworn she was a puppet and your right hand was up her back controling her. she didnt blink or move a muscle. I have noticed that on several of your videos. I hope all is ok... if she in on medication , I think she needs to adjust her dose. I saw that same stare in my step son when he used to live here, when he was on medication. I medtioned his stare ( I would call it his "off stare" as in it looked like he just turned off like a robot) to his doctor and they adjusted his meds and he became much better to the point he didnt need to take them anymore.
Hi you two! It's Dave in Raleigh again, still boondocking in the 33 year old Bounder in the theatre parking lot (but not for long). I'll explain, but first a suggestion; if you'll have someone weld you up a lid for your basket in the rear where your generator was and include a couple of hasps you'll be able to secure your belongings without the use of cable locks. A couple of mastered pad locks can be obtained at Wal Mart for very little and you won't have to watch that little screen as you go down the road. Also, if you haven't already, you might purchase a receiver lock as well so that no one can reach under, pull the pin and make off with the entire basket. I'm sure that would really piss you off! The ounce of prevention is much less expensive in the long run. Sorry for your loss. Now, the reason I said I'd not be in this parking lot too much longer is because not long ago a numskull in a late model Dutch Star with all the bells and whistles pulled in and set up housekeeping and proceeded to push his slides out, level his rig up with his jacks and run his generator non stop, 24 hours a day. I attempted to bring him up to speed on the do's and don'ts of dry camping in parking lots without permission and it went right over his head. Furthermore, instead of parking in the rear of the lot as far away from everyone and everything as possible he parked right up front by the road and directly across the street from a children's gym and made several comments to the moms regarding the kids and how smashingly attractive they were in their leotards! What a creep!!! Well, as you can imagine that didn't go over too well and the owner of the gym called the corporate office of this theatre and the response was that everyone had to leave, including me. I've been in this lot for four years without a hitch, only because I'm smart enough to lay a low profile and keep my head down. Obviously that works. I have a weekend gig (Friday afternoon through Monday morning) providing security for a mechanical shop two tenths of a mile from where I am and the arrangement couldn't have been better. The shop is where I charge my batteries and tank up on water. That's still good, but now because of this degenerate I'm looking for a new weekday home and situations like this are if not non existent, certainly hard to come by. He was trespassed and they would've done the same to me but I was walking my dog at that moment when they came by. Now, to further aggravate the situation he's back on the lot parked, still with his slides out and running the generator but further away from the bunch that made the complaint. There's all sorts of details I didn't include but I've never run into a bigger bone head in all my life! Can you produce a comprehensive video, complete with some interviews with other experienced boondockers in order to establish for new RVers the rules of good boondocking form and for jerks like this guy? I tried to find one on You Tube but wasn't able to. Had I been able to show him a video on the subject that outlined all this I might not be moving right now. It would be sincerely appreciated. Thank you and keep up your good work. Personally I think your channel may be in the top couple or three channels out there and I try to never miss a video and have given you a like every time. Be safe out on the road!
@@RVOddCouple Glad you liked it. If you used angle iron for the lid frame (like the basket?) cut and welded on 45° angles in the corners so it would fit over the whole top like the top of a shoe box, welded a couple of steel hinges to the rear of the basket, a couple of hasps to the lid and their shackles to the basket and either extruded sheet metal (same as is on the basket) or solid sheet metal inside the angle on the lid it'd provide good security and look pretty clean at the same time. If you go with the regular sheet metal, rather then the extruded it might help keep the rain off if you weren't moving. If you actually do it put it in a video so I can see it. Good luck with it. Again, sorry about that generator.
I think that sometimes the problem is that we have such great experiences IN campgrounds (as a general rule) and fellow RVers are such wonderful people, that we tend to forget that the general public is not as loving, respectful and trustworthy. My husband worked in a big city as a paramedic/firefighter for 21 years and saw how bad it can be “out there” and is super careful. He has to constantly remind me to be on my guard about all different manner of things, so it is drilled in. It kinda messes with the wonderful feelings that an RV lifestyle otherwise brings. But, that’s reality. I’m glad you guys decided to count your blessings and learn from your mistakes!
Real bummer someone ran into my garage at 3am because I forgot to close the door and stole my pressure washer! Chin up it happens to us all and you are all safe! Sorry for the loss. Buy a fake one and put rocks in it and leave it on the back :-)
Michel Foshee, Good point. Most of us here would’ve gotten out of our vehicles and made noise. So many others are so afraid to get in anyone’s business and who knows, might’ve been scared by the looks of the perpetrators. You know, I wouldn’t be surprised if someone had videotaped it for a laugh. It seems nowadays people would much rather pull out their phones to use its camera than the dang phone itself.
Totally understand how you feel about having something stolen. I've been a victim myself. Police told me they basically had bigger fish to fry, and that I should look in pawn shops to see if my stolen article turned up there. The item was worth a few hundred dollars, and the item was never found and the "opportunist" got away with it. Precaution is the best course. Thanks for a great vid, but sorry to hear of the loss of your generator. Be safe and happy travels.
So sorry this happened to such nice folks! Unfortunately in 30 years of law enforcement I've heard this story way too often. My truck driver brother in law told me that groups of thieves in Detroit will stage at intersections and when a tractor trailer stops they will cut the trailer locks and offload cargo, that's just crazy! Truckers will stage at truck stops outside the city and drive right through interaction red lights in Convoy. Wish I could make it to your keynote address this weekend, I'm sure it will be GREAT! Best of Luck always.
I’m of the opinion it flew out and broke straps these cargo carriers bounce really hard because the trailer goes way past the wheels .all bouncing is magnified
OMG, Aurora, Colorado ... it figures. Having lived in Ft. Lauderdale/Miami for 13 years prior to moving to Colorado I learned to live with my head on a constant swivel. That, by far, was the most crime ridden area I’ve know. Something bad happens close by all the time. After moving to Colorado, I’ll admit my vigilance has decreased enough to where I could smell the roses. But , I definitely noticed there are some areas here that seem to make the news more often than others. Aurora takes the cake. I’m not surprised that’s where your misfortune happened. I am sad though that something happened in Colorado. I love it here but it seems everywhere is turning “Miami “ these days . Great tip though for those less vigilant. Thanks , as always .
Sorry that happened to you guys! That sucks! What got us through our years of theft was a phrase "Less to Move". Still angers a person, but we didn't let it eat away at us. :)
Having something stolen while using your RV no matter how big or small, or how expensive or inexpensive has the ability to ruin your day and sometimes days! Sorry you both had to experience that feeling. I have been camping in a RV with my family and friends for about 28 years, averaging about 6-8 trips a year or about 30-40 days of camping. In 2018 my wife and I decided we wanted to travel more and use the trailer at least once a month. So far so good until February of this year. February 2019 was the first time we ever had anything stolen from our RV or campsite. Like you, I let my guard down. I was staying at a very popular and very secure RV Park, On the central coast of California, Pismo Coast Village. My beach cruiser bicycle was stolen overnight from next to my fifth wheel trailer. Our first theft in 28 years of camping, and of all places a well lit area with onsite mobile security that vigorously patrols the park. Of course my bicycle lock and cable were wrapped around the seat post, and was not utilized. Shame on me for creating an opportunity for an undesirable thief to steal from good people! We lock everything up now, it’s really sad!
You're so right. Then it's like getting stolen from twice, because of the residual anger that impacts the rest of the trip. Sorry that was stolen. Difficult lessons learned all around.
Hey guys, just saw the video. I'm a deputy sheriff currently, fixing to early retire at the end of this year. I love that info you gave on veterans and law enforcement...interesting 🙄. I live in NC and will say definitely file the report if you have the serial numbers etc....I know some time has passed since this happened, but these things can get pawned at pawn shops and with technology being as it is, agencies have the capability to check pawn shops even in other states. My wife's grandmother had jewelry stolen and we found out it was a family member who pawned it in another state. At this pawn shop, he had to use a "thumbprint" to complete the deal.....what a genius 😃! It's getting harder and harder to pawn stolen merchandise....at least around me. I have to say, that was a bold move on that crook's part. You would think someone would have got that on camera. It either got pawned, sold on Craig's List or sold personaly to an individual cheap to finance their drug addiction. I've been told to use the dead bolt lock on your house door. Those locks are unique to your RV, the other is not and anyone with a key like those can use them like master keys.....just F.Y.I. Anyhow, I hate that happened to you guys, you a such a great couple. Criminals live a life that constantly in turmoil and paranoia fuels their da-to-day life. You can wake up each day with peace....something those folks will never experience. Have a great day!!!
I talked to a guy, his spare broke off on the highway. I’ve heard of whole bike tacks breaking off. Likely you hit a bad bump , your hooks came free and the generator bounced off your rack. Roads are brutal.
@@RVOddCouple by your own admission you did not lock it. You were in a rush etc., etc, One of the hazards along the road to clear thinking is "jumping to conclusions" which you may have done in this case. You would be astonished what can come loose and bounce out of those baskets.
I was behind a pickup on a bouncy road. I noticed a extension ladder was bouncing up and down and catching a little of air. It finally caught a good amount of air that the ladder looked like it floated out of the trailer. Luckily the ladder approached my car in the correct position so I could drive over without running it over. I couldn't catch up to that pickup. I can imagine the guys in the pickup were surprised that the ladder was missing when they got to their destination.
I would not confront someone who was crazy enough to steal generator in traffic with a lot of witnesses around. They might be a little unstable and come after me and my vehicle.
RV Odd Couple I’m going to hazard a guess that you were on Mississippi St. and going to or leaving Buckley. Great place to RV but shady neighborhood at night. We love it there anyway. Safe travels!
My guess is that they hit a pothole (which there are thousands of in Colorado thanks to HixINLooper) and the generator bounced out. Traffic sucks here but no way would someone have time to jump OUT OF THEIR CAR and RUN away with over a hundred pounds of generator before having to get BACK in their car/truck and drive.
Sorry y’all had to go through this ! That’s one thing I hate is a thief! Thanks for sharing this ,it may help this not to happen to someone else ! Safe travels !
First off sorry to hear that someone stole from you, not sure why but I live in southern Colorado and our police reports have no dollar limits (yet). I did learn the hard way also as my wife has relatives in and around Denver area and i am use to keeping things in back of my truck, and yes had item stolen from me also while in Denver. sad that nothing is safe anymore. We hope that the rest of your trip was safe and event free and hopefully they will try to pawn the gen and you will get it back. Safe travels and we love your channel as you tell it like it is good or bad.
I had a generator stolen from my campsite in broad daylight. I was in SoCal, the generator was cable locked to my camper, through the frames. I ran across the street to a grocery store, was gone about 20 minutes, came back and the generator was gone, the lock cable was still there locked through the camper frame. Whoever did it was very good and quick. Luckily it was not an expensive generator. Much more careful now.
How horrible! I'm reminded of my parents coming home from vacation to find every room, every drawer had been gone through and many, many things gone. Sometimes the crime is worse than the value of what was taken. Glad you guys are ok.
You two just saved me trouble in the future. I have a cable lock in the back of my jeep to secure my kayak. Today its coming out of its package. Our first RV, a fifth wheel trailer on a trip over the Louisiana marsh going west on I-10, our spare tire and bracket launched off the trailer bumper due to the road conditions. Again, thanks for sharing your good and bad moments. Character is earned, not bought. Sad truth is I know of no one that has not been robbed of something.
Can I ask why you didn't cover it so no one would know it was a generator? I have the same kind of basket. I cover what I'm carrying with a old blanket.
You can also use a bottomless beat up old cooler as a cover. Cables can be easily cut so a little stealth disguise may help. (Confession: stole the idea from another channel.......lol!)
Way to blame the victim, Deb. Now that you mention it, it IS a good idea to cover it with a tarp or something, but the way you phrased your comment, it sounds like you're blaming John for being victimized by a scoundrel under circumstances where most people would never have expected to get ripped off.
The Lord laid on my heart to pray for you this morning before I watched your video. I pray the Lord will strengthen and encourage and protect you. Psalm 46
Thank you- great lesson & perspective at the end. Mercedes looked a little shell shocked by the theft. It is a huge violation. I try to remember to pray for my enemies when I’m wronged. It doesn’t always happen immediately, but then I remember that they need the prayer. May our Lord bless you all three. May the Lord turn the thieves heart’s to repentance.
It's been rumored for years, trucks would get broken into driving through NYC. You move so slow people just break into trailer and steal from you.. Drivers at night won't even stop at lights if noone is around. Just slow down use caution.. Yes, trusting people let their guard down and get taken advantage of. Good luck in the future. Thanks for this great video.
Really sorry to hear this. It's such a horrible feeling to have things stolen like this. Thanks for sharing this so we can all relate and learn. Hang in there. Peace.
That just awful, unfortunately there are bad people traveling through good and decent areas of towns looking for better things to steal. Travel safely!
It's a mistake to think thieves always come from bad areas looking for "something better" in good areas. Good areas are full of resident thieves, too. Rich kids are big thieves. Trust me, I know.
Will you be traveling through Mississippi anytime soon? Bummer about the generator. I heard of a story about a family that was boondocking in a wooded area and they chained their generator to a tree about 10 inches in diameter thinking it was well secured. They left camp for a short while and when they returned the tree was chopped down and the generator was gone. I suggest getting a heavy duty weather proof cover for yours.(Porch Shield waterproof universal black generator cover).They have them on Amazon for around $20-26. Best Wishes as always. 🇺🇸
Friends of mine had their generator a fair distance from their camp site. They chained it down. They were watching TV and all of a sudden it quit. Two men came buy and put it on their generator on their quad. But what they forgot to do was break the chain. They took off as fast as they could and it knocked them both off and they both went to jail. Both ended up with fractures. I wonder how that happened?
I'm so sorry to hear about your generator loss. John, when we do meet up this winter, you'll understand why I have such a large key ring. Even our TT spare tire has a cable lock on it. Keep it all locked up, and don't make the mistake of getting out of the truck ever. That my friend might have led to an even bigger mistake as you never know what kind of a person your coming face to face with. Always be safe and aware of your surroundings and the people in it.
First, sorry that you got robbed, one of the worst parts is that feeling of helplessness; sure, you can report it to the police but deep down you know that nothing will come of it. That said, I have a similar rack with a generator strapped to it so your video has motivated me to go and get a cable lock. Thanks for that!
Everyone act like a hero after war. But the real heros are the ones dead. You would have done shit. Absolutely nothing. You would have been busy on Facebook or being busy doing your makeup and looking in the mirror to see what else is wrong with your face. we all know it. Everyone ask tough on RUclips
Oh John, Mercedes! I am SO SORRY to hear of your theft! I came to the conclusion some years ago that nothing is safe from being stolen anymore. We hounded Tim’s sister and family to camp (in a trailer) at our beloved Yosemite...they finally did so. The four of them left to go on a hike and when they returned to their site, EVERYTHING outside the trailer had been stolen. No one around them “saw anything”. Needless to say, it left a bad taste in their mouth. Brand new camp stove, all their chairs, lanterns, etc. Just so, so sad. You always think these type of things happens to others.... but, you two were in a city, driving in traffic...unbelievable. Also unbelievable that other drivers didn’t do or say anything to help at the time! Just remember, I’m sure, that the good, helpful people out there outnumber the bad. Going forward, I wish nothing but happy and safe travels for the three of you. Watching you videos always puts a smile on my face. 😊
Virginia, thank you so much. So sorry to hear about that theft in Yosemite. That's horrible! Appreciate your sincere well wishes, love, and support. Thank you!
I’m sorry you guys got your generator stolen, that isn’t cool. The really amazing news is you had a brand new backup of the exact item that was stolen! Imagine if you boondocked full time and relied on your generator! Losing such an expensive and important item would be disastrous for so many nomads. Maybe there’s a lesson there. At the end of the day, what did you really lose? I’d say to the people telling you to be suspicious of everyone- don’t let the bad guys dictate your outlook on the whole species, most of us are good lol. Far more good things happen than bad things, far more people are good, it’s what we choose to give energy to and pay attention to. You’ll find (and confirm) whatever you’re looking to believe. No matter what though, it’s violating having something stolen. I admire that you guys take these lessons as a chance to learn and grow. And I appreciate your positive attitude while keeping it real. Keep the faith and keep on trucking! Xo
I am so very sorry to hear of your unfortunate theft. My wife and I suffered a similar theft of a large cooler that we had on our carrier also when we made a stop at a poi in TN a few years ago. They stole our food! We had no drinks ( alcohol) in the cooler. Better luck in your future.
Store the generator inside the Rv when traveling, put plastic on your Rv floor and wedge the generator against furniture such as your couch, you can put plastic between the couch and the generator, make sure you put the gasoline in when you get closer to where you are boondocking.
sorry that happened to you guys:(. We live in Aurora, Colorado and your absolutely right who would have thought someone would steal from a moving vehicle. Hope you get that camera fixed. Safe travels and God Bless!
we are starting our journey this monday. we sold everything like you guys did, bought a 35ft winne. iam doing the exact same thing buying a inverter generator mainly because the onan 5500 on our coach uses alot of gas even though it only has a few hundred hours . figured I can spend 1k and save gas and wear and tear on the onan. we have learned alot from watching your videos over the past few month . Trish is going to set us up a youtube to document all the interesting things we are going to have happen to us 😂😂
*So sorry for the theft.....but your beautiful spin on it is so inspiring.......I engrave my DL # on all my equipment......and had some items returned..........you guys rock!*
@@RVOddCouple Sometimes I will engrave my DL # very large and go over the engraving with a permanent marker so the ink will go into the engraving.....so the pawn shops will see it...and if recovered the police will contact you......I have put an obvious identifying mark on common campground items.....that I can recognize while driving by to ID a "look a like item" at someone elses camp site.........the military has taught me a thing or two.....
Had same problem with the Furrion observation camera identical to yours. It's an older generation that has a weaker signal, so for longer fifth wheels it struggles to stay connected. I noticed this problem after changing rigs, which added another 10 ft between camera and monitor. Suddenly the camera and monitor wouldn't stay connected in a reliable fashion. I fixed the problem by upgrading to the newest Furrion Vision S series (new camera will fit into existing base on your rig). It works flawlessly with my 44' fifth wheel and 8' long bed truck, similar to yours. The contrast and picture quality is also much improved on the newer Vision S series. Anyway, hope this helps.
Well that sucks. I had a bike stolen in California, after three years of not locking it, off my rack on the car. It was old, but a decent bike. I got another used bike and a lock this time, but I rarely bother locking it, and sure enough, came out of a restaurant in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and someone was in the process of helping themselves to my bike!
I am so sorry this happened, that is a lot of money, so kind of you to know it could be worse, and God does nothing without a reason. He was showing you about lock it down everytime and get the other gen ready, but also get this back view camera working. My husband used a black stand we got in America for a great price, goes over the propane tanks, gen goes in metal shelf, locked into it, and a box he made goes over it with venting and access to fill gas, but also locked down as well. I am shocked that no one in the other cars beeped or motioned to you.
Mercedes you look so down hearted. Chin up, what comes around goes around. I hope you have a good time here in Indiana. I wished I had the time to come meet you both but I have a lot going on. Blessings
Am I the only one that watched all the way through just to see if Mercedes would smile at all? Thanks for being this transparent about your experiences.
I had an similar situation at flying j flag city California. Parked, went in to eat came out to CK over the rig and bam, someone that had keys stole my grill and outside tv. Live and learn. That's when I learned about the RV key situation. Got some custom locks after that... Happy RV'ing
I have the same Furrion Rear Camera. And I have the same issue with it. I do not have a constant live feed. It might be due to a couple of issues. One might be the range or distance from the camera to the receiver. And second, it might be that it is capable of 2 camera inputs. So it might be trying to switch channels. But I am not sure. Cause mine switches or goes blank with no real consistency. Let me know what you find out and how it might be fixed.
@@RVOddCouple As much as I enjoy the convenience and ease of installation of wireless equipment, NOTHING beats the reliability and security of hard wired. It is a bit of a job to get your wiring from the back all the way to the front, but you will not have any connection problems after you run it. Just my thoughts. Hope you get things situated and have better journeys. Peace and Blessings.
Talk about hitting right at home! We are leaving in a month+ and I have the same generator and on my list to do is to get a cable to lock not only the generator but also a box in the back of my truck. Sorry for the loss and also glad you have a back up. Safe travels.
Drove cross-country with same cargo carrier on my car. Anything that was put out there was something I didn't mind if got lost or stolen. Even so, I tarped, netted, ratcheted (straps) down. Ppl are evil.
Mercedes...you look so disillusioned. Have heart and chin up sweet. If yall are as kindhearted as we perceive, then karma has good days ahead 4 you. We r currently enjoying our own rebate. Enjoy!
I love that you guys share the bad experiences so others can learn. I feel bad because this video seems to be a triple or quadruple whammy! You get sick, you're running late, theft occurs and it's just when you need it the most. I hear a bit of discouragement in your voices and feel bad. I know it's hard to sound enthused after this happened... You're boondocking video was very up beat. I know you know this but try to keep focused on the good times while you pursue freedom and adventure! Life is too short! The lesson at the end about counting your blessings is so true. Take care guys! We are rooting for ya!
Thank you so much Ollie! Appreciate the kind words and the understanding. You're right. Compared to our last video, this one is tough. But in the end, we're blessed. It could be so much worse! Thank you so much for your encouragement. You have no idea how helpful you have been to us!
Mercedes & John, I always am learning something new. Even after owning a camper for 10 years. I’m very sorry that this happened to you. 😔 Keep on keeping on though. You’re an adorable couple. It’s been fun following your family on your adventures. God bless you all.
There should be street cams for the police to review might see the theft But my bet you in construction hit a big dropoff and it bounced it wouldn't take much if a bounce and rocking motion at the same time
Man o man 😢 I'm so sorry that this happened. If it gives you any additional ideas...I too just bought a portable generator for back up (still in the box and hasn't been primed) and I have a similar cargo basket on the back. I haven't prepped it yet because I haven't made a safe "hiding" place for it yet. I looked at covers, but felt it still registers as a generator. I researched lockable truck untility boxes that could fit in my cargo basket - WAY too expensive for my budget 😞 So, what I decided on was a $20 deep, opaque, plastic tub that the generator just fits in. Now, I just need the tools to make some holes in the bottom, so it can be U-bolted to the cargo basket. To secure the lid, the plastic tub can be easily strapped closed and pad locked to the cargo basket. But, the main point is that the contents of the tub is now ambiguous and stealth 😘 I hope that this might help some, if you decide to get another one that needs to be stored externally again 😘
Kim, it was a painful lesson! You bring up a great point about having it in "stealth mode" . Appreciate your kind words and hope you get help so you can get your generator set up. :-)
Sure hated to hear that guys.....what a bummer ! I'm assuming your insurance will cover that, but, the whole idea of it sucks. Can imagine how sick, sad, angry you felt.... Better sailing ahead !
We carry our Honda generator in the same type of basket. Besides using cargo straps, we always use one of the large bike cables to lock it to the basket mount (trailer hitch) on the rear of the trailer. I spent over 30 years as a cop, and unfortunately, I know that if it can be stolen, it will be stolen. Good luck, guys, and stay safe.
"Ya sure you have enough locks their bud?" Said the person who 1) owns nothing worth stealing, 2) never had anything of worth stolen from them, or 3) there were a thief who was disssapointed you thwarted them...
I pull a small camper and one of the best things I did was mount a camera on the back and wired it to be on all the time. The monitor slides over my rear view mirror. Good to know what is going on behind you. Maybe electrify your rear rack with high voltage? LOL
I know people always give a thought to you guys. I watched your budget video and you talked about the cost of cell phones. We recently swapped from at&t to Cricket Wireless and have been very pleased. Three lines unlimited access for 90 dollars a month. May God Bless you and all you do. Let's RV on.
Appreciate that tip. I used to have cricket many years ago. I wonder if they have nationwide service. Because for best results, you want to have more than one plan. But our bill is outrageous!
We are happy to announce our NEW Amazon Store. Thank you for your support
www.amazon.com/shop/rvoddcouple
Sorry I don't know how to, but there is a way to set up the amazon link so that I (a canuck) will get amazon.ca and you yanks get amazon.com. I think Mark of Keep Your Daydream mentions it in his How To Start a RUclips Channel course.
.....????
FAR BE IT FOR ME TO HAVE ANY RIGHT TO DEBATE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES AND SINCE AS WE ALL HAVE COME TO LEARN ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIAS LIKE RUclips ONE MUST NEVER QUESTION WHEN IN DOUBT NOR ATTEMPT TO USE RESPECTFUL 'CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM' ON THESE PLATFORMS.
SO I'LL DIGRESS AND REFRAIN FROM CROSSING THE BORDERS AND BOUNDARIES TO AVOID DISCONTENT FROM THE MASSIVE MOVEMENT OF THE 'YES' SOCIETY THAT SIMPLY AGREE WITHOUT QUESTION AND SUPPORT FINANCIALLY WITH NO DEGREE GIVEN TO THOUGHT.
WE WERE NEVER TROLLS,HATERS,JEALOUS JUST OPINIONATED,TRUTHFUL AND DOUBTFUL,
TODAY WE ARE...JUST MUTED.
IT'S A SAD STRANGE WORLD WHERE OUR HIGHLY ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY HAS SHIFTED COURSE FROM HELPING US TO PROGRESS AND PUT INTO PLACE A SHIELD OF SILENCE WITH NO RESPECT TO FREEDOM OF SPEECH IN AMERICA.
WE ARE ROBOTS COMPELLED TO ONLY AGREE,
WE ARE LOST IN A LAND I ONCE KNEW AS AMERICA...,WE ARE DEAD AND DON'T EVEN CARE.
JUST GIVE ME MONEY... FOR IT IS WRITTEN AND PROGRAMMED IN EVERY SINGLE ROBOT ON EARTH TO WORSHIP AT THE CHURCH AND ALTAR OF THE AMIGHTY PRINTED GOD.
SO LET'S ALL BOW AND KNEEL IN SILENT PRAYER THAT OUR SAVIOR,CREATOR THE ALMIGHTY DOLLAR CONTINUES TO NOURISH US,PROTECT US AND BLESS US WITH MORE THAN WE ALREADY HAVE OR NEED...AMEN.
YOU CAN PROCEED WITH ACTIVATION MODE TO BLOCK IT IS AN ILLOGICAL DEFENCE MECHANISM THAT KEEPS THE ROBOT POPULATION ON RUclips FROM THOUGHT OR ATTEMPT TO DISAGREE WITH YOUR THOUGHTS,NEEDS AND BELIEFS.
AND THIS COMMENT WILL BE SHORT-CIRCUITED TO NEVER BE SEEN NOR READ ON THIS CHANNEL IN 1...2...3 ...MEEOWS ۩
Is it just me or is just the public getting worse it's like they're trying to run light out of the whole country God bless you guys stay safe
Rear cameras, tie downs and locks really come in handy. Thieves always watching. You almost have to travel in an armored vehicle , so sad.
Bummer Guys...
Please cover everything in that carrier with a tarp. What thieves can’t see, they are more likely leave alone. Sorry for your loss.
Good idea! Thank you Janet💚
What do you mean I can't understand
That's a good idea .
Dang! I'm so sorry that happened to y'all! I really hope someone saw the thief and reported it. We had an item stolen out of our car once. We filed a police report and several months later we received a call from the police department saying they had the item in their possession and we could pick it up. Don't lose hope. I love that y'all were able to put things in perspective and stay positive in a negative situation. Enjoy your weekend & continue to count your blessings! Thanks for sharing your ups and downs with us!
Happy that you go it back😀👍😀👍 We will never lose hope...Thank you Kimber💚💚💚
That totally sucks guys, especially that horrible feeling of being violated. So sorry. You certainly have had a wide range of experiences in your travels.
Thank you Elsa, Yeah, it just stinks!
Thank you for sharing this upsetting experience with us all. I know losses due to thefts take a bit of the shine off of traveling, but hopefully this will just help you feel wiser rather than sadder. You two are such optimistic people that I think it will end up by strengthening you. Also, you have undoubtedly prevented a whole bunch of us from having a similar experience by having shared it with us. Now we'll all be extra vigilant! I think you'll have a great time being keynote speakers and that all of those fortunate enough to get to attend will really enjoy this right along with you. Keep your hearts up!
Appreciate the kind words. We hope that we've helped others avoid this! That makes it worth it!
Some people just suck. Sorry you found one on your trip.
There are so many good people than bad out here👍😀 Thank you
I have heard of people getting stuff stolen while refueling. I tend to overdue in that I double lock everything and even triple lock our bikes on the towed. (We have a motorhome) I had a guy laugh at me at a fueling station saying," Do ya think ya got enough locks on your bikes?" I replied, "Not in today's society." We actually have alarm locks on them.
Wow Roy! You bring up a great point! You can never be "too safe"!
Good for you, Roy Davis! We do have a society that has a large problem with "sticky fingers". Gas stations have long been a problem for ladies having their purses stolen off of the car seats on the passenger side while they are filling their car's gas tanks. I usually put my purse on the floor of the driver's side while fueling or wear it. Also I watch my surroundings like a hawk whenever out in public. My entire family is very pro law enforcement and several of us are LEOs, consequently we're a watchful clan. :D
garden quilts,
I don’t care what people think around me, I lock my doors while fueling, and I put my purse on the floor like you do.
I’ve been known to test my daughter on her surroundings when she least expects it. I will ask questions such as give a description of the vehicle or what color clothes were they wearing. Did they have glasses or a mustache. As the years have progressed (she’s only 14), she’s gotten quite good. Of course, we get days when she is completely oblivious. Her worse times are when we’re moving in a vehicle and her best is when we’re stopped.
Don’t let her in on this, but it’s gotten me to be more aware than ever before. Plus, I still get times when I’m completely oblivious too. Always room for improvement on that, always.
I'd love to catch someone stealing something of mine, I'd pull my gun and put them to the ground as a threat until the police arrive. As a former corrections officer the police are tolerant , the person may be a little banged up from resisting me . Shit happens ,criminals and thieves should be 1880s justice really
True, even in cars through the door opposite the fuel side. Purses on the center console are especially vulnerable. Keep your valuables in sight or lock it up.
So sorry this happened to you two. John, it wasn’t your fault - a bad person stole from you. When we’re in a hurry we forget things like the extra locks. Happens to all of us. Thank you for sharing the good, the bad and the ugly. Have fun in Shipshewana! There is an RV / MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart Indiana you should visit while in the area.
I agree. It's the thief's fault! But thanks for a the advice. Didn't know there was an RV hall of fame? Neat!
So sorry to hear about your generator being stolen . It’s not your fault that these low life’s are just waiting for an opportunity. God bless you both and thank you for sharing. We are going to hit the road soon on our airstream that we purchased for our retirement and are now more knowledgeable about safety❤️
Appreciate your kind words. I feel like those saying "it's our fault" makes the theft justified. That being said, now we'll be doing things differently
I am so sorry to hear your generator got stolen! What an uneasy feeling someone took it especially while you were in your vehicle. Expensive lessons... so frustrating! 😬 Looking forward to seeing you this weekend! Safe travels guys!
Thank you. It hurts but could always be worse. We're looking forward to meeting you too! :-)
Expensive lesson that can be worse if you lose the other generator due to the use of a cable lock. Don’t chance it again use a chain! Unfortunately the RV age of curtesy is gone. My wifey calls me Locky Lockerson because I lock everything down, even if I walk away from a motor home tool cabinet to work on something on the other side.
If you had jumped out to stop them thieves stealing, you could of lost something else...your life! I was a campground host in four different campgrounds and there is some very mean folks out there that don’t regard life or your property. They want it? Make them bring a blowtorch!
I just started my pre RV buy research. I will be living full time (retirement) your videos are helping me so much. I have visited 2 dealers and am going to look in Mississippi Florida and North Carolina as well. My new favorite saying is slow your roll. No emotional purchases. I will review these videos and take notes. Someone should warn the dealerships that I am coming, prepared with my new knowledge and ready to go. LOL
Thank you both 💕
Some people SUCK!! I’m sorry that happened to you. Thanks for sharing your experience. Safe travels.
You're welcome Kerry! Thank you
Sorry to hear about your loss my friends. Generators are such a hot item to be stolen. They literally need to be chained up at all times. I was watching a tv show about a couple gold prospecting in Aussie and they were in the middle of nowhere. They had their generator beside their caravan and were prospecting only a short distance away and when they came back their generator was stolen so someone had to be watching them for them to do this. Take care mates and always praying for you 😊
Thank you David. Unfortunately you are correct. Appreciate the prayers, well wishes, and positive words of encouragement . God bless!
Bless y’all hearts. So sorry this happened to y’all. Very crazy that they stole this generator right off your rig while in motion. Sorry y’all were sick. Hope you’re feeling better soon. Take care and safe travels
We don't think that they stole it while we were moving...Thank you for the kind words
So glad that for our 7 years on the road we kept our generator Chained and Locked! We made our share of mistakes while traveling, it goes with the territory and some of them were not too cheap. I appreciate your honesty in all that you do and your really great attitude.
Thank you Bill. It could have been worse.
Similar thing happened to a young couple with a similar type RV travel channel. Lock cable cut and 2 bikes taken WHILE they were in their conversion van...
Advice from veteran motorcycle touring...cover it... out of mind, out of sight...
In the worst neighborhoods, (parts of Tampa/Miami) I used to put a sign on the bike, "For Sale, blown motor, make offer"... No thief is interested in stealing a broken motorcycle... worked like a charm.
Such a bummer! Lock everything down
Just keep your eyes out every where we go. It does not matter if a safest place on earth. Thank you very much for sharing. I wish whoever stole your generator watch your youtube and will shame out of his or herself.
Very true!
Is Mercedes alright? I’ve just never seen her in a stare like that!
Doing better now. :-)
Having something stolen from you is a complete violation. I don't blame her.
creepy....
Śhes got the death stare lol
She has PTSD now. 😮
Even when painful, a lesson learned is a lesson of great value!
Always wishing you dry roads and green lights.
Andy & Kim
Thank you Andy & Kim💚
It is so sad to think someone would be that cruel and feel desperate enough to steal. It is a reminder to us all to be so careful. And, thanks for the uplift reminding us that there are those having a much more difficult time than we may be. Blessings to you both.
Thank you Susan💚 Blessings to you as well
It sucks this is the world we live in! Hubs has worked with Oregon State Parks for 30 years and has taken too many reports from campers saying, "Our stuff has been stolen!". I used to think he was being overly cautious by locking everything up ALL THE TIME. After watching this video, however, I will never complain or be annoyed again with regards to his locking things up routine.
New to your channel and an looking forward to all the info you so honestly and thoroughly provide. We'll be full-timers when hubs retires in 6 years.
🙂
Happy to help💚 Welcome to the RV Odd Squad! It is awesome that your taking the time to plan your full time RV adventure!
My friends I am sorry that happened to you. Cable lock would help, but it is not the full solution. Most dishonest people carry a good bolt cutter with them. The best thing you can do, is not let them see valuable items. Cheap way a tarp. Make sure you lay it on the bottom of the basket first. So wind can not get under it. Cable lock the generator, and fold the tarp over everything. Now cargo strap the tarp in place tightly. Out of sight out of mind. At least it makes it too time consuming to get you at a traffic light.
Good idea. Could have have been a lot worse. We are Blessed💚
@@RVOddCouple Yes, anytime their is criminal activity, and no one is harmed. You are blessed.
@@RVOddCouple Yes, anytime their is criminal activity, and no one is harmed. You are blessed.
I am going to be the skeptic here and I know you and others will disagree, but I have a hard time believing someone would run out of their vehicle at a stop light, remove straps from a generator that weighs over 100 pounds, take it back to their vehicle, throw it in before the light changed, and all while in traffic where the least someone would do is honk their horn if this actually happened. It is pretty unreasonable and seems more likely that the strap(s) came loose when bouncing through construction areas and flew off. The rear end of a TT is probably the bounciest part, and it happens often enough to be commonplace. The other reasonable possibility is that it was stolen while you were parked somewhere and you didn't notice. My other comment is as retired law enforcement, with all the crime and limited resources it is common for certain crimes to be online reported. This frees up officers to attend to serious crimes such as violent crimes and those where citizens are in danger. Sad to say, but your report will most likely never be investigated and will be closed due to lack of evidence/leads. Again, if you knew how many crimes occur and how many criminal reports come through in a typical year you'd understand. The cops need to be available to handle high priority calls and cases. Just a fact.
Thank you for your service. You're right, resources are limited and there are those that need law enforcement's help more urgently. It could always be worse!
Years ago, a high school classmate of mine's father was shot in broad daylight in a large city. His parents were taking a microwave oven to him at college. The box was in the partly open (tied down) trunk. A thug tried to steal it while they were stopped at a downtown traffic light. His father jumped out to stop the guy, and the would-be thief fatally shot him. This was over 40 years ago... imagine today!
There is a video, in London, of two expensive bikes on a Mini...and this bloke, is racing up to them in traffic, at red lights...and can actually be seen, TRYING to unstrap and steal the bike RIGHT OFF OF THE MINI's back end! It was being filmed by a dash mount on another vehicle. Whether that vehicle's owner was calling the London cops...you don't know...but at least there were five attempts to steal the bike right off the Mini. If I can find that you tube video...I'll post it, back here...or you can try to find it yourself...and yes...thieves are criminals....they would steal the gold tooth from your corpse.... and here is the vid...... Get ready to have your jaw hit the floor! ruclips.net/video/CBn_HCTZiYc/видео.html
Time to buy an on board generator. We have a propane one and we love it.
Someone else I know thought someone stole their property, after reviewing their video footage, they realized the object actually flew out of their RV....it wasn't stolen.
The odds of someone stealing your generator while driving in traffic without anyone letting you know is very low.
Chalk it up to a loss.
Mercedes, if law enforcement didn't have a dollar limit, they would have to triple the number of police officers in every department, not conducive.
Sorry this happened to you.
GOD Bless. 🙏
I don't buy that "not enough manpower" argument. If they have enough cops to write tickets for not having a front license plate or for rolling through a stop sign when no one else is around, they have enough officers to be able to take a police report for theft in person.
Thank you for your service Cindy. We thought that too, in fact, we'd rather think it fell off. But the other items in the basket were undisturbed. Unfortunately you're right! It's so pervasive, they need a dollar limit. Appreciate your support and understanding.
Doesn't mean anything? The generator could have easily busted the straps, flew out, while the light weight items remained undisturbed. It happens all the time, simple physics.
Mercedes had a light flashing around her sad face. So sorry to hear of your loss. I had a cargo door on my MH pop open after hitting some potholes in Pa. and my extension ladder slid out jut enough to touch the highway. But the good part was I had fastened it with a cable. And I have cargo door alarms. So I made a quick stop and only lost an 1/8 off a inch of the ladder. The small toolbox that was next to the ladder I never did find. We only due 7 months on the road a year. Stay safe. We enjoy your channel.
Mercedes was pretty upset with me. We are both better today. We are blessed
Oh my goodness...I have that same cargo carrier and I had mine welded into a basket so our generator doesn't get stolen, it's welded nice and sturdy with a lock but now I wanna double lock it down inside as well. Great tips.
Always assume that everyone is trying to steal from you. You don't have to be jerks, but you must keep your guard up at all times. Many people say that I am paranoid and I'm ok with that. As a physical security, protection and anti=-terrorism officer I can't help but always look at things from the perspective that people are going to try to get me. I live very happy and I enjoy life and that great earth that God has given us so the point is to enjoy but be viginlat 100% of the time.
Oh bro, I agree with you 100% ,I've been called paranoid by a friend, but I don't walk around in life with blinders on like a lot of peeps do, an I live a happy life also this way, barring natural disasters I avoid an can smell trouble coming an have learned to trust my spidey Sense's to the max, an have taught my wife "AWARENESS" training also.
Unfortunately you're both right. It's better to called paranoid but be safe. Appreciate the supportive remarks. :-)
@Jeff Holland I was an Army officer
@Jeff Holland They already knew that I am a retired army officer so I didn't lead with that.
There's a regular poster on RV.net, who has a total of SEVEN locks on his B&W puck-mounted hitch. One on each puck mount, one on each of the head pins and one on the king pin release.
MY WORD!!! From 2:01 to 2:38 ( plus) I would have sworn she was a puppet and your right hand was up her back controling her. she didnt blink or move a muscle. I have noticed that on several of your videos. I hope all is ok... if she in on medication , I think she needs to adjust her dose. I saw that same stare in my step son when he used to live here, when he was on medication. I medtioned his stare ( I would call it his "off stare" as in it looked like he just turned off like a robot) to his doctor and they adjusted his meds and he became much better to the point he didnt need to take them anymore.
Sorry this happened. I own the same generator and love it. Keep your chin up. Perspective is everything.
You're right. Perspective is key!
Hi you two! It's Dave in Raleigh again, still boondocking in the 33 year old Bounder in the theatre parking lot (but not for long). I'll explain, but first a suggestion; if you'll have someone weld you up a lid for your basket in the rear where your generator was and include a couple of hasps you'll be able to secure your belongings without the use of cable locks. A couple of mastered pad locks can be obtained at Wal Mart for very little and you won't have to watch that little screen as you go down the road. Also, if you haven't already, you might purchase a receiver lock as well so that no one can reach under, pull the pin and make off with the entire basket. I'm sure that would really piss you off! The ounce of prevention is much less expensive in the long run. Sorry for your loss.
Now, the reason I said I'd not be in this parking lot too much longer is because not long ago a numskull in a late model Dutch Star with all the bells and whistles pulled in and set up housekeeping and proceeded to push his slides out, level his rig up with his jacks and run his generator non stop, 24 hours a day. I attempted to bring him up to speed on the do's and don'ts of dry camping in parking lots without permission and it went right over his head. Furthermore, instead of parking in the rear of the lot as far away from everyone and everything as possible he parked right up front by the road and directly across the street from a children's gym and made several comments to the moms regarding the kids and how smashingly attractive they were in their leotards! What a creep!!! Well, as you can imagine that didn't go over too well and the owner of the gym called the corporate office of this theatre and the response was that everyone had to leave, including me. I've been in this lot for four years without a hitch, only because I'm smart enough to lay a low profile and keep my head down. Obviously that works. I have a weekend gig (Friday afternoon through Monday morning) providing security for a mechanical shop two tenths of a mile from where I am and the arrangement couldn't have been better. The shop is where I charge my batteries and tank up on water. That's still good, but now because of this degenerate I'm looking for a new weekday home and situations like this are if not non existent, certainly hard to come by. He was trespassed and they would've done the same to me but I was walking my dog at that moment when they came by. Now, to further aggravate the situation he's back on the lot parked, still with his slides out and running the generator but further away from the bunch that made the complaint. There's all sorts of details I didn't include but I've never run into a bigger bone head in all my life!
Can you produce a comprehensive video, complete with some interviews with other experienced boondockers in order to establish for new RVers the rules of good boondocking form and for jerks like this guy? I tried to find one on You Tube but wasn't able to. Had I been able to show him a video on the subject that outlined all this I might not be moving right now. It would be sincerely appreciated.
Thank you and keep up your good work. Personally I think your channel may be in the top couple or three channels out there and I try to never miss a video and have given you a like every time. Be safe out on the road!
Hi Dave, That's a great idea. That would really make it hard to steal! :-)
@@RVOddCouple Glad you liked it. If you used angle iron for the lid frame (like the basket?) cut and welded on 45° angles in the corners so it would fit over the whole top like the top of a shoe box, welded a couple of steel hinges to the rear of the basket, a couple of hasps to the lid and their shackles to the basket and either extruded sheet metal (same as is on the basket) or solid sheet metal inside the angle on the lid it'd provide good security and look pretty clean at the same time. If you go with the regular sheet metal, rather then the extruded it might help keep the rain off if you weren't moving. If you actually do it put it in a video so I can see it. Good luck with it. Again, sorry about that generator.
I think that sometimes the problem is that we have such great experiences IN campgrounds (as a general rule) and fellow RVers are such wonderful people, that we tend to forget that the general public is not as loving, respectful and trustworthy. My husband worked in a big city as a paramedic/firefighter for 21 years and saw how bad it can be “out there” and is super careful. He has to constantly remind me to be on my guard about all different manner of things, so it is drilled in. It kinda messes with the wonderful feelings that an RV lifestyle otherwise brings. But, that’s reality. I’m glad you guys decided to count your blessings and learn from your mistakes!
Counting our Blessings today💚 Thank you for sharing
Real bummer someone ran into my garage at 3am because I forgot to close the door and stole my pressure washer! Chin up it happens to us all and you are all safe! Sorry for the loss. Buy a fake one and put rocks in it and leave it on the back :-)
Could have have been a lot worse. We are Blessed💚
Ya think another motorist would have seen someone stealing it......and done something to help.
Agreed! Surprised
Michel Foshee,
Good point. Most of us here would’ve gotten out of our vehicles and made noise. So many others are so afraid to get in anyone’s business and who knows, might’ve been scared by the looks of the perpetrators.
You know, I wouldn’t be surprised if someone had videotaped it for a laugh. It seems nowadays people would much rather pull out their phones to use its camera than the dang phone itself.
Ma'iingankwe H No Kidding!
Thought of the same thing
That might be true in some states. But in Colorado, not so much.
Totally understand how you feel about having something stolen. I've been a victim myself. Police told me they basically had bigger fish to fry, and that I should look in pawn shops to see if my stolen article turned up there. The item was worth a few hundred dollars, and the item was never found and the "opportunist" got away with it.
Precaution is the best course. Thanks for a great vid, but sorry to hear of the loss of your generator. Be safe and happy travels.
So sorry this happened to such nice folks! Unfortunately in 30 years of law enforcement I've heard this story way too often. My truck driver brother in law told me that groups of thieves in Detroit will stage at intersections and when a tractor trailer stops they will cut the trailer locks and offload cargo, that's just crazy! Truckers will stage at truck stops outside the city and drive right through interaction red lights in Convoy. Wish I could make it to your keynote address this weekend, I'm sure it will be GREAT! Best of Luck always.
Thank you John. Thank you for your service and for your kind words. Appreciate the warnings of those cities. Can't imagine!
I’m of the opinion it flew out and broke straps these cargo carriers bounce really hard because the trailer goes way past the wheels .all bouncing is magnified
Doubtful but possible
OMG, Aurora, Colorado ... it figures. Having lived in Ft. Lauderdale/Miami for 13 years prior to moving to Colorado I learned to live with my head on a constant swivel. That, by far, was the most crime ridden area I’ve know. Something bad happens close by all the time. After moving to Colorado, I’ll admit my vigilance has decreased enough to where I could smell the roses. But , I definitely noticed there are some areas here that seem to make the news more often than others. Aurora takes the cake. I’m not surprised that’s where your misfortune happened. I am sad though that something happened in Colorado. I love it here but it seems everywhere is turning “Miami “ these days . Great tip though for those less vigilant. Thanks , as always .
We both love Colorado and think this can happen anywhere. Happy Thanksgiving & Thank you
Sorry that happened to you guys! That sucks! What got us through our years of theft was a phrase "Less to Move". Still angers a person, but we didn't let it eat away at us. :)
True statement. less to move, and lesson learned! :-)
Having something stolen while using your RV no matter how big or small, or how expensive or inexpensive has the ability to ruin your day and sometimes days! Sorry you both had to experience that feeling. I have been camping in a RV with my family and friends for about 28 years, averaging about 6-8 trips a year or about 30-40 days of camping. In 2018 my wife and I decided we wanted to travel more and use the trailer at least once a month. So far so good until February of this year. February 2019 was the first time we ever had anything stolen from our RV or campsite. Like you, I let my guard down. I was staying at a very popular and very secure RV Park, On the central coast of California, Pismo Coast Village. My beach cruiser bicycle was stolen overnight from next to my fifth wheel trailer. Our first theft in 28 years of camping, and of all places a well lit area with onsite mobile security that vigorously patrols the park. Of course my bicycle lock and cable were wrapped around the seat post, and was not utilized. Shame on me for creating an opportunity for an undesirable thief to steal from good people! We lock everything up now, it’s really sad!
You're so right. Then it's like getting stolen from twice, because of the residual anger that impacts the rest of the trip. Sorry that was stolen. Difficult lessons learned all around.
Hey guys, just saw the video. I'm a deputy sheriff currently, fixing to early retire at the end of this year. I love that info you gave on veterans and law enforcement...interesting 🙄.
I live in NC and will say definitely file the report if you have the serial numbers etc....I know some time has passed since this happened, but these things can get pawned at pawn shops and with technology being as it is, agencies have the capability to check pawn shops even in other states. My wife's grandmother had jewelry stolen and we found out it was a family member who pawned it in another state. At this pawn shop, he had to use a "thumbprint" to complete the deal.....what a genius 😃! It's getting harder and harder to pawn stolen merchandise....at least around me. I have to say, that was a bold move on that crook's part. You would think someone would have got that on camera.
It either got pawned, sold on Craig's List or sold personaly to an individual cheap to finance their drug addiction.
I've been told to use the dead bolt lock on your house door. Those locks are unique to your RV, the other is not and anyone with a key like those can use them like master keys.....just F.Y.I.
Anyhow, I hate that happened to you guys, you a such a great couple. Criminals live a life that constantly in turmoil and paranoia fuels their da-to-day life. You can wake up each day with peace....something those folks will never experience.
Have a great day!!!
I talked to a guy, his spare broke off on the highway. I’ve heard of whole bike tacks breaking off. Likely you hit a bad bump , your hooks came free and the generator bounced off your rack. Roads are brutal.
Anything is possible, just unlikely
*Doug Smith* You should have finished your sentence with: And landed smoothly in the back of someone else's pickup truck...
@@RVOddCouple Actually, that IS the most likely scenario. Someone stealing it while you were actually driving is extremely unlikely.
@@RVOddCouple by your own admission you did not lock it. You were in a rush etc., etc, One of the hazards along the road to clear thinking is "jumping to conclusions" which you may have done in this case. You would be astonished what can come loose and bounce out of those baskets.
I was behind a pickup on a bouncy road. I noticed a extension ladder was bouncing up and down and catching a little of air. It finally caught a good amount of air that the ladder looked like it floated out of the trailer. Luckily the ladder approached my car in the correct position so I could drive over without running it over. I couldn't catch up to that pickup. I can imagine the guys in the pickup were surprised that the ladder was missing when they got to their destination.
Why didn’t someone in traffic see what happened and let you know?
That's what we were wondering too.
I would not confront someone who was crazy enough to steal generator in traffic with a lot of witnesses around. They might be a little unstable and come after me and my vehicle.
RV Odd Couple I’m going to hazard a guess that you were on Mississippi St. and going to or leaving Buckley. Great place to RV but shady neighborhood at night. We love it there anyway. Safe travels!
My guess is that they hit a pothole (which there are thousands of in Colorado thanks to HixINLooper) and the generator bounced out. Traffic sucks here but no way would someone have time to jump OUT OF THEIR CAR and RUN away with over a hundred pounds of generator before having to get BACK in their car/truck and drive.
@@mjmorro7757 you might find the courage to write down the license plate # and report it.
It’s personal regardless of the cost.
Yes
Sorry y’all had to go through this ! That’s one thing I hate is a thief! Thanks for sharing this ,it may help this not to happen to someone else ! Safe travels !
Thank you Perry💚 This is why we share this embarrassing stuff
First off sorry to hear that someone stole from you, not sure why but I live in southern Colorado and our police reports have no dollar limits (yet). I did learn the hard way also as my wife has relatives in and around Denver area and i am use to keeping things in back of my truck, and yes had item stolen from me also while in Denver. sad that nothing is safe anymore. We hope that the rest of your trip was safe and event free and hopefully they will try to pawn the gen and you will get it back. Safe travels and we love your channel as you tell it like it is good or bad.
Thank you Randy, It makes me sad, being from CO, but you know we're blessed. There's more positive in our lives than not.
dang, that sucks, I hate people that steal other people's stuff.
Me, too. 😠
We agree. It's never ok to steal. :-(
From the looks of this video (had I been the thief) I would have been more scared of Mercedes running to the back of the RV! No offense John.
LOL...Me too
That's funny but your right. Don't mess with the women's!!
I had a generator stolen from my campsite in broad daylight. I was in SoCal, the generator was cable locked to my camper, through the frames. I ran across the street to a grocery store, was gone about 20 minutes, came back and the generator was gone, the lock cable was still there locked through the camper frame. Whoever did it was very good and quick. Luckily it was not an expensive generator. Much more careful now.
Oh my goodness! So Sorry to hear that! That's awful!
How horrible! I'm reminded of my parents coming home from vacation to find every room, every drawer had been gone through and many, many things gone. Sometimes the crime is worse than the value of what was taken. Glad you guys are ok.
Now that's tragic! We are better now and attitude of gratitude has returned💚 Could have been so much worse
You two just saved me trouble in the future. I have a cable lock in the back of my jeep to secure my kayak. Today its coming out of its package. Our first RV, a fifth wheel trailer on a trip over the Louisiana marsh going west on I-10, our spare tire and bracket launched off the trailer bumper due to the road conditions. Again, thanks for sharing your good and bad moments. Character is earned, not bought. Sad truth is I know of no one that has not been robbed of something.
Glad to hear this. This is exactly why we are sharing about it! To help others avoid our struggles!
Can I ask why you didn't cover it so no one would know it was a generator? I have the same kind of basket. I cover what I'm carrying with a old blanket.
Good idea
You can also use a bottomless beat up old cooler as a cover. Cables can be easily cut so a little stealth disguise may help. (Confession: stole the idea from another channel.......lol!)
Way to blame the victim, Deb.
Now that you mention it, it IS a good idea to cover it with a tarp or something, but the way you phrased your comment, it sounds like you're blaming John for being victimized by a scoundrel under circumstances where most people would never have expected to get ripped off.
@@Milesco You are so sensitive. It's pathetic. Are you an adult? Get over it.
The Lord laid on my heart to pray for you this morning before I watched your video. I pray the Lord will strengthen and encourage and protect you. Psalm 46
Thank you Pamela💚💚💚God Bless you as well
Thank you- great lesson & perspective at the end. Mercedes looked a little shell shocked by the theft. It is a huge violation.
I try to remember to pray for my enemies when I’m wronged. It doesn’t always happen immediately, but then I remember that they need the prayer. May our Lord bless you all three. May the Lord turn the thieves heart’s to repentance.
We Prayed for them...God bless you as well💚
It's been rumored for years, trucks would get broken into driving through NYC. You move so slow people just break into trailer and steal from you.. Drivers at night won't even stop at lights if noone is around. Just slow down use caution.. Yes, trusting people let their guard down and get taken advantage of. Good luck in the future. Thanks for this great video.
I watched this when I was a younger man in broad daylight on 93 inNY. You are welcome
Really sorry to hear this. It's such a horrible feeling to have things stolen like this. Thanks for sharing this so we can all relate and learn. Hang in there. Peace.
Peace💚💚💚
That just awful, unfortunately there are bad people traveling through good and decent areas of towns looking for better things to steal.
Travel safely!
Thank you
It's a mistake to think thieves always come from bad areas looking for "something better" in good areas. Good areas are full of resident thieves, too. Rich kids are big thieves. Trust me, I know.
it's a sad world we live I today, nothing is sacred!!!....but those "donuts" are a true favorite....
lol . The donuts are the bright spot of this video. :-)
so do I understand tis correctly, you are in Indiana this weekend?...
@@RVOddCouple : The "bright spot" in this video is that strange light that mysteriously appears on Mercedes' neck just after 2:05 ! 😀
Will you be traveling through Mississippi anytime soon? Bummer about the generator. I heard of a story about a family that was boondocking in a wooded area and they chained their generator to a tree about 10 inches in diameter thinking it was well secured. They left camp for a short while and when they returned the tree was chopped down and the generator was gone. I suggest getting a heavy duty weather proof cover for yours.(Porch Shield waterproof universal black generator cover).They have them on Amazon for around $20-26. Best Wishes as always. 🇺🇸
Thank you PJ. We will be in Mississippi next spring
Friends of mine had their generator a fair distance from their camp site. They chained it down. They were watching TV and all of a sudden it quit. Two men came buy and put it on their generator on their quad. But what they forgot to do was break the chain. They took off as fast as they could and it knocked them both off and they both went to jail. Both ended up with fractures. I wonder how that happened?
I'm so sorry to hear about your generator loss. John, when we do meet up this winter, you'll understand why I have such a large key ring. Even our TT spare tire has a cable lock on it. Keep it all locked up, and don't make the mistake of getting out of the truck ever. That my friend might have led to an even bigger mistake as you never know what kind of a person your coming face to face with. Always be safe and aware of your surroundings and the people in it.
lol . never thought to lock up the spare! Great tips! Thank you!
First, sorry that you got robbed, one of the worst parts is that feeling of helplessness; sure, you can report it to the police but deep down you know that nothing will come of it.
That said, I have a similar rack with a generator strapped to it so your video has motivated me to go and get a cable lock. Thanks for that!
Thank you Paul. You know, that's exactly our hope. We want to help others avoid our struggles!
I would have been beeping my horn like a crazy person and telling my passenger to get video of that! That stinks!!
Exactly! We were thinking the same thing. If John saw that happen to someone else.... well I don't have to tell you! :-)
Everyone act like a hero after war. But the real heros are the ones dead. You would have done shit. Absolutely nothing. You would have been busy on Facebook or being busy doing your makeup and looking in the mirror to see what else is wrong with your face. we all know it.
Everyone ask tough on RUclips
Oh John, Mercedes! I am SO SORRY to hear of your theft! I came to the conclusion some years ago that nothing is safe from being stolen anymore. We hounded Tim’s sister and family to camp (in a trailer) at our beloved Yosemite...they finally did so. The four of them left to go on a hike and when they returned to their site, EVERYTHING outside the trailer had been stolen. No one around them “saw anything”. Needless to say, it left a bad taste in their mouth. Brand new camp stove, all their chairs, lanterns, etc. Just so, so sad. You always think these type of things happens to others.... but, you two were in a city, driving in traffic...unbelievable. Also unbelievable that other drivers didn’t do or say anything to help at the time! Just remember, I’m sure, that the good, helpful people out there outnumber the bad. Going forward, I wish nothing but happy and safe travels for the three of you. Watching you videos always puts a smile on my face. 😊
Virginia, thank you so much. So sorry to hear about that theft in Yosemite. That's horrible! Appreciate your sincere well wishes, love, and support. Thank you!
I’m sorry you have to deal with this. It’s not your fault someone stole from you.
We are doing much better now Ted😀 You live and you learn...Thank you👍💚😀
I’m sorry you guys got your generator stolen, that isn’t cool. The really amazing news is you had a brand new backup of the exact item that was stolen! Imagine if you boondocked full time and relied on your generator! Losing such an expensive and important item would be disastrous for so many nomads. Maybe there’s a lesson there. At the end of the day, what did you really lose? I’d say to the people telling you to be suspicious of everyone- don’t let the bad guys dictate your outlook on the whole species, most of us are good lol. Far more good things happen than bad things, far more people are good, it’s what we choose to give energy to and pay attention to. You’ll find (and confirm) whatever you’re looking to believe. No matter what though, it’s violating having something stolen. I admire that you guys take these lessons as a chance to learn and grow. And I appreciate your positive attitude while keeping it real. Keep the faith and keep on trucking! Xo
There's a huge lesson here! Better safe then sorry. But we're so blessed. Could be so much worse! Keep the faith rings true to us.
I am so very sorry to hear of your unfortunate theft. My wife and I suffered a similar theft of a large cooler that we had on our carrier also when we made a stop at a poi in TN a few years ago. They stole our food! We had no drinks ( alcohol) in the cooler. Better luck in your future.
You got to lock everything. Thank you
The sense of violation, and having to come face to face with how very lost some souls are.
Crushing experience that makes me very sympathetic. Sounds like you have a new plan! God bless your travels!
Thank you so much for the supportive remarks. Appreciate the kind words! God bless you and yours! :-)
I had a generator locked in the back of my pickup with a cable lock, it was stolen anyway. The lock may slow them down but it won't stop them.
Exactly right!
Store the generator inside the Rv when traveling, put plastic on your Rv floor and wedge the generator against furniture such as your couch, you can put plastic between the couch and the generator, make sure you put the gasoline in when you get closer to where you are boondocking.
sorry that happened to you guys:(. We live in Aurora, Colorado and your absolutely right who would have thought someone would steal from a moving vehicle. Hope you get that camera fixed. Safe travels and God Bless!
Thank you Eddie
we are starting our journey this monday. we sold everything like you guys did, bought a 35ft winne. iam doing the exact same thing buying a inverter generator mainly because the onan 5500 on our coach uses alot of gas even though it only has a few hundred hours . figured I can spend 1k and save gas and wear and tear on the onan. we have learned alot from watching your videos over the past few month . Trish is going to set us up a youtube to document all the interesting things we are going to have happen to us 😂😂
Congratulations Patricia! Happy to help where we can :) Let us know how it goes and hope to meet you out here one day. Thank you
*So sorry for the theft.....but your beautiful spin on it is so inspiring.......I engrave my DL # on all my equipment......and had some items returned..........you guys rock!*
Good advice💚
@@RVOddCouple Sometimes I will engrave my DL # very large and go over the engraving with a permanent marker so the ink will go into the engraving.....so the pawn shops will see it...and if recovered the police will contact you......I have put an obvious identifying mark on common campground items.....that I can recognize while driving by to ID a "look a like item" at someone elses camp site.........the military has taught me a thing or two.....
What a terrible experience. So sad to hear about this theft.
Thank you Ben! Glad it wasn't worse.
I chain lock my lp tanks and my spare tire and my ladder theres bandits evertwhere!
Sad but true.
Had same problem with the Furrion observation camera identical to yours. It's an older generation that has a weaker signal, so for longer fifth wheels it struggles to stay connected. I noticed this problem after changing rigs, which added another 10 ft between camera and monitor. Suddenly the camera and monitor wouldn't stay connected in a reliable fashion. I fixed the problem by upgrading to the newest Furrion Vision S series (new camera will fit into existing base on your rig). It works flawlessly with my 44' fifth wheel and 8' long bed truck, similar to yours. The contrast and picture quality is also much improved on the newer Vision S series. Anyway, hope this helps.
Thank you 👍😀
Well that sucks. I had a bike stolen in California, after three years of not locking it, off my rack on the car. It was old, but a decent bike. I got another used bike and a lock this time, but I rarely bother locking it, and sure enough, came out of a restaurant in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and someone was in the process of helping themselves to my bike!
Got to keep your head on a swivel now-adays! Thank you
I am so sorry this happened, that is a lot of money, so kind of you to know it could be worse, and God does nothing without a reason. He was showing you about lock it down everytime and get the other gen ready, but also get this back view camera working. My husband used a black stand we got in America for a great price, goes over the propane tanks, gen goes in metal shelf, locked into it, and a box he made goes over it with venting and access to fill gas, but also locked down as well. I am shocked that no one in the other cars beeped or motioned to you.
Surprised no one saw it
Always store/ travel with generator in bed of truck !!!!!
Not only for security, but it gets REALLY dirty back there... Even with a cover..
When you say "back there", I'm guessing you're talking about the back of the trailer, not the bed of the truck. (?)
Lesson Learned!
Mercedes you look so down hearted. Chin up, what comes around goes around. I hope you have a good time here in Indiana. I wished I had the time to come meet you both but I have a lot going on. Blessings
I was so bummed! You're right. The karmic debt that they just incurred is too heavy! Thank you for your supportive words! :-)
@@RVOddCouple your so welcome. Have a blessed day!
Am I the only one that watched all the way through just to see if Mercedes would smile at all?
Thanks for being this transparent about your experiences.
Mercedes was pretty upset at me over not locking the generator. We are better now😀😀😀
I had an similar situation at flying j flag city California. Parked, went in to eat came out to CK over the rig and bam, someone that had keys stole my grill and outside tv. Live and learn. That's when I learned about the RV key situation. Got some custom locks after that...
Happy RV'ing
Got to lock everything down!
Damn! I'm so sorry 4 u. Theft makes u feel so vulnerable. I guess the answer is... lock everything on the outside.
Thank you! It could always be worse!
Just bought a new 2020 Jayco Redhawk!! Yay sold my 2016 and now in my 2020. Hope to see U guys on da road!!!
Congratulations! Hope to see you
I have the same Furrion Rear Camera. And I have the same issue with it. I do not have a constant live feed. It might be due to a couple of issues. One might be the range or distance from the camera to the receiver. And second, it might be that it is capable of 2 camera inputs. So it might be trying to switch channels. But I am not sure. Cause mine switches or goes blank with no real consistency. Let me know what you find out and how it might be fixed.
Time for a new one! Thank you Terry
@@RVOddCouple As much as I enjoy the convenience and ease of installation of wireless equipment, NOTHING beats the reliability and security of hard wired. It is a bit of a job to get your wiring from the back all the way to the front, but you will not have any connection problems after you run it. Just my thoughts. Hope you get things situated and have better journeys. Peace and Blessings.
My police officer brother always told me, an unlocked door is an invitation in! I guess it really goes for everything.
Talk about hitting right at home! We are leaving in a month+ and I have the same generator and on my list to do is to get a cable to lock not only the generator but also a box in the back of my truck. Sorry for the loss and also glad you have a back up. Safe travels.
This is why we share all of our experiences, good, bad, and embarrassing. Keep us up to date on how it goes Craig...Thank you
Thanks for sharing. You also need to cover so it’s not seen I always cover anything on the carry ramp and lock it down Sorry this happened to you
Great tip. A cover would help too. If it can't be seen, it's harder to get.
Yes, cover so it's out of sight is probably better security than strapping it in.
@@2Truth4Liberty : Well, the strapping in isn't for security, it's to keep it from bouncing out of the basket while motoring down the road.
@@Milesco Well, in that case, maybe just cover it :0)
Drove cross-country with same cargo carrier on my car. Anything that was put out there was something I didn't mind if got lost or stolen. Even so, I tarped, netted, ratcheted (straps) down. Ppl are evil.
That's tough. Being robbed leaves you feeling violated. The dollar loss is almost secondary.
That's right Tom! Thank you
Mercedes...you look so disillusioned. Have heart and chin up sweet. If yall are as kindhearted as we perceive, then karma has good days ahead 4 you. We r currently enjoying our own rebate. Enjoy!
she is so mad, she is not even blinking.....
Thank you Stacy, Appreciate the kind words! :-)
lol Hector. you're right!
I agree... Sometimes very good things happen from the bad.
Yes yes yes I have been looking at her and thinking that he is holding a poster of her,finally I noticed she nodded and hair moved a little 😆
I love that you guys share the bad experiences so others can learn. I feel bad because this video seems to be a triple or quadruple whammy! You get sick, you're running late, theft occurs and it's just when you need it the most. I hear a bit of discouragement in your voices and feel bad. I know it's hard to sound enthused after this happened... You're boondocking video was very up beat. I know you know this but try to keep focused on the good times while you pursue freedom and adventure! Life is too short! The lesson at the end about counting your blessings is so true. Take care guys! We are rooting for ya!
Thank you so much Ollie! Appreciate the kind words and the understanding. You're right. Compared to our last video, this one is tough. But in the end, we're blessed. It could be so much worse! Thank you so much for your encouragement. You have no idea how helpful you have been to us!
Mercedes & John, I always am learning something new. Even after owning a camper for 10 years. I’m very sorry that this happened to you. 😔 Keep on keeping on though. You’re an adorable couple. It’s been fun following your family on your adventures. God bless you all.
Thank you Katherine💚 God Bless you as well
There should be street cams for the police to review might see the theft
But my bet you in construction hit a big dropoff and it bounced it wouldn't take much if a bounce and rocking motion at the same time
Anything is possible. Thank you
Man o man 😢 I'm so sorry that this happened. If it gives you any additional ideas...I too just bought a portable generator for back up (still in the box and hasn't been primed) and I have a similar cargo basket on the back. I haven't prepped it yet because I haven't made a safe "hiding" place for it yet. I looked at covers, but felt it still registers as a generator. I researched lockable truck untility boxes that could fit in my cargo basket - WAY too expensive for my budget 😞 So, what I decided on was a $20 deep, opaque, plastic tub that the generator just fits in. Now, I just need the tools to make some holes in the bottom, so it can be U-bolted to the cargo basket. To secure the lid, the plastic tub can be easily strapped closed and pad locked to the cargo basket. But, the main point is that the contents of the tub is now ambiguous and stealth 😘 I hope that this might help some, if you decide to get another one that needs to be stored externally again 😘
Kim, it was a painful lesson! You bring up a great point about having it in "stealth mode" . Appreciate your kind words and hope you get help so you can get your generator set up. :-)
If you're anywhere near Atlanta, you're welcome to come to my shop to get this sorted. No charge for a member of the _RV Odd Squad!_
@@ARepublicIfYouCanKeepIt What a kind and generous offer! Thank you 💕 Google says I'm 2445 miles away, so it won't be for a while 🤪
@@RoamTownGirl Kim, John's good people. He's always helping and giving more then he takes. Thank you John for looking out for our friend Kim.
@@RoamTownGirl Well, I'm ready, willing and able if you're ever in the area!
Sure hated to hear that guys.....what a bummer ! I'm assuming your insurance will cover that, but, the whole idea of it sucks. Can imagine how sick, sad, angry you felt....
Better sailing ahead !
Could have have been a lot worse. We are Blessed Roger💚💚💚
Deductibles suck, 👎🏼
We carry our Honda generator in the same type of basket. Besides using cargo straps, we always use one of the large bike cables to lock it to the basket mount (trailer hitch) on the rear of the trailer. I spent over 30 years as a cop, and unfortunately, I know that if it can be stolen, it will be stolen. Good luck, guys, and stay safe.
Thank you for your Service! I should have locked it but it won't happen again. Thanks again👍😀
I have some friends that had two expensive bikes taken rite off their camper while in traffic. God bless and keep up the good work.
That's horrible! Appreciate the kind words & God bless!
"Ya sure you have enough locks their bud?" Said the person who 1) owns nothing worth stealing, 2) never had anything of worth stolen from them, or 3) there were a thief who was disssapointed you thwarted them...
LOL...Thank you
People today don’t want to get in-volved. It is a sad world we are living in .
Agreed. It's too bad!
That is disgusting!! Wow! Im sorry that happemed to you guys
Thank you Diona! Appreciate that!
I pull a small camper and one of the best things I did was mount a camera on the back and wired it to be on all the time. The monitor slides over my rear view mirror. Good to know what is going on behind you.
Maybe electrify your rear rack with high voltage? LOL
I know people always give a thought to you guys. I watched your budget video and you talked about the cost of cell phones. We recently swapped from at&t to Cricket Wireless and have been very pleased. Three lines unlimited access for 90 dollars a month. May God Bless you and all you do. Let's RV on.
Appreciate that tip. I used to have cricket many years ago. I wonder if they have nationwide service. Because for best results, you want to have more than one plan. But our bill is outrageous!