I love your videos. Was a RVer for 17 years. I think your RV is perfect. I enjoyed your tour. Do not buy a new one. The new ones aren’t built like yours. I am also happy you kept Trinity. I’m a dog person so she adds so much.
We aren't planning on buying a new one in the super near future. But we also know this one will need a complete overhaul at some point...and I'm not sure we're up to that. Time will tell though. We definitely don't want to trade this one out for one that trembles at the sight of a forest road. -J
I love what you have done. I just purchased a 2013 for $25,000. I would like to lighten mine up. But I’m concerned I’ll start the painting and never complete it. I am living in an RV park outside of Houston. I miss CA but cannot afford to go back and buy. Traveling mercies!!
We arrived in Alaska five days ago. We’re way out in the wilderness working for a beautiful lodge. They provide our meals and housing. I work as a gift store retail clerk 40 hours a week and my husband works in ground keeping 40 hours a week. Will be here for 18 weeks. Leaving Arizona hot summer for this summer in the north is a much cooler move. We try never to miss any of your videos and have gone back to watch your older ones. Have safe travels. Alaska is beautiful for what we’ve seen so far.
That's awesome! Yeah - We love the desert...in the winter. In the summer, nooooot so much. 😂 You're making me miss last summer a little bit. I really enjoyed working at the camp store in Mackinaw City. Made some good friends. -J
Caulk! Caulk! Caulk! On all those white cabinets. Hidden angle iron to connect the desk to the wall. Bookshelf: cut straight down the sides of that rail, and remove it, add a short light piano hinge with some strong magnets to hold it up, or small (pretty) sliding locks on each side on the outside of the rail. That’s all! Really enjoyed the tour and I was surprised by all the storage you have. Enjoy your channel immensely!
I love the bookshelf idea. May give try at a shot when we are stationary near tools. Now I have to face my mortal enemy once again and grab a tube of caulk. 🥷
Love what you’ve done with the RV. The phrase “they don’t build them like they used to” comes to mind. We have a new fifth wheel and it’s just built so cheaply. One idea for your stove, take that metal cover off. They sell cutting boards that “mount” on the top of the stove. I’ve even seen it in black. We had one in our RV that had very little counter space and it was a Godsend. They sell them on Amazon. Give Trinity hugs from me. ❤️
I kept thinking why not get one of those stove boards instead of the stove cover? I see them on Facebook Marketplace on my neck of the woods. A friend gifted me one that's been useful because I share my counter space with my sibling who owns every kitchen accessory.
We've considered it! What we like about the metal cover is that it quickly lifts up out of the way (I don't have to set it somewhere else when using the stove) and when it's down in place it's the same level as the counter which is something a board or butcher block would not be. Those are small things, but I think they are 2 small things that would probably really become annoying to me over time. -J
Totally understand the older but better built RV. Mine is a 2004 but when I shop for new I’m extremely disappointed with the lack of quality. I love my old lady and do my best to take care of her.
I live in Texas and between the summer droughts and winter floods there is a very wide range of humidity. I was getting the same cracks on my cabinet doors. When the cracks were open I caulked them with a thin bead of “DAP Alex Plus All purpose acrylic latex caulk plus silicone” It comes in white and clear and is for “molding, trim, baseboards, windows and doors”. Even though I used the white, when it cured, I repainted the caulk lines with one coat of paint because the color isn’t a bright white. It’s been two years and so far, so good. I got it at Lowe's but I'm sure HD has it too.
I sold RV’s for 16 years and I have to say the older RV’s were built better than the new ones especially during and after the “C” virus years. We own a 2005 40 ft diesel pusher. Enjoy your travels!
@OpenRoading your so right! There are many creators here where the pets are the reason we watch. Some where we can't stomach the humans to the point we eventually sadly stopped watching. Dogs rule some humans drool...
@OpenRoading so far, you guys are just fine. When I see some start over acting, it gets tough to watch. If more would just be real and not looking for an Emmy. Lol. just my 2 cents We really like the Home a Roam couple. Just so down to earth people
It's so nice when our husbands have to tell us we were right!! LOL Thank you for sharing your home with us! I have watched a few videos on some newer models and I would be hesitant to buy a new one.
Oh man...I'd be nothing without Kalyn. I can't speak for you and your husband but I can say that without my wife I'd never do anything interesting, try new things, or do anything nearly as exciting in life. So yeah...she's right a lot and I try to make sure I let her know that I see it. 😁 When it comes to newer RVs there are only a select few models that we'd even consider and even then...with some hesitancy. -J
Upgrades are worth it! It's your custom home! My class B is 20 years old, and I've renovated most of the inside ( they're never made for full time living). And the decals, too 👏👏 Nice job y'all!!
Hi Kalyn & Joseph! Please keep your RV for as long as you can stand to. Don't let FOMO take you over. If you have any doubts just watch the Liz Amazing and Blu Ox RV inspection channels. I don't have awesome remodel skills or help doing a project like that so I'd be looking for a motorhome already remodeled or getting a new one from a reliable company that will stand by its warranty. Your home looks great, your pets look great, you look great. Just drive until you can't and if you retire from the road with the same RV you will have money saved so that you can house yourselves when it's time to stop driving. May you drive until you're 105!
No fomo here! Just also don't want to run it into the ground. We'll see what time tells. The first "Major upgrade" we need to do in the next year or two is completely overhaul the truck or get a new (to us) one. She's got some lingering issues that will need attention but we're still not quite there yet to where we can consider pouring a lot of cash into her. -J
I love your videos so much. On Fridays I think, hmmm what’s happening with Open Roading! I just think you are the kind of people so many of us would like as friends. Funny, smart, kind to each other, a joy to be around and not pretentious at all. It is so fun living vicariously through your adventures. Thank you for always making me smile.
Yall are so inspirational! Love that you bought a 20 year old camper and love it! We bought a almost 20 year old pop up to upgrade the family from tent camping. And we took our maiden Voyage this weekend at a Jellystone and loved it!
That’s awesome! I know I’m old because I keep finding myself saying “they don’t build them like they used to!” 😂 I don’t know how many miles our girl has left in her but we’ll keep her going as long as we can. -J
Wow, great job on the video and all your upgrades! SO glad you took Trinity into your hearts and home, she's so precious. Cody too, may he hang in there and stay healthy as long as possible.
You are right about the quality of the older RVs. Before our 2017 travel trailer (only used for camping and living in while building), we had a 2005 5th wheel. Both RVs were of equal brand/price but the older RV seemed much sturdier in the cabinets, shelving, etc...
I love what you've done to your RV. It's really beautiful. We bought a 20 year old Jayco (23') for our first RV and it had more storage than our current 30' Airstream. We did the same thing with our mattress. It hangs over a little, but it's so much more comfortable than the one that came with it. And I like the extra length. My feet hung over the bottom of the old one, and I'm not even that tall. (5'5") I had to laugh at the stick to prop it up to get to the storage. We did the same thing.
I did the cabinets in my home and used Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit. It takes time for it but I have only had to touch up once in 5 years and it was a cabinet I use everyday. Hope you find something to update your cabinets. Be safe on your travels. Love 💕 you bunny and pup. 🐶
This paint job would work great if we stayed in one spot. 😟 what I need to know is whether or not it will handle the drastic change from Florida humidity to Phoenix dryness. That seems to be our issue. The wood or paint contracts in the dry air. -J
You guys did a great job in remodeling your rig. I would keep your rig as long as you can, it is put together well compared to the new RV's coming out.
The 31 (or whatever the number is) is usually the floor length. When you go to do the brakes get the package that includes the entire brake part, bearings etc. Easier to replace the entire thing and gets rid of any rust that formed in the brakes. your axle likely has a stamp telling you what it is or the sticker in the rv will list if it is a dexter 6K axle, etc. If you want a video to understand what replacing the brakes, bearings takes look up South main Auto on youtube and look a couple years back in his videos for camper brake video. He (Eric O) is very detailed. If I am around I would walk you through it, it is not hard I use to do a couple trailers a year just to keep the brakes clean.
Awesome info - thanks! Yeah. If all goes according to plan I'll be replacing everything with pre-greased bearings etc. We'll see! And yes, I'll be doing a bunch of research to make sure I don't over tighten the wrong thing or under tighten something. We won't tell the story of when I drove 60 miles with loose lugs... -J
My wife and I have the exact same 5th wheel, We haven't done any upgrades. We winter in Florida and store it onsite, For just three months it serves well, Love your videos Oh and we also have a trailer in Alaska lol. It also stays onsite up there and we fly up and back each year, Our sons own that campground,
I wouldn't even think about buying an RV of any brand after 2020 .... Wall Street squeezed the juice outa the lemon.... and it shows!! Travel safe guys your 5'vr is better than 90% out there
Love your videos...and all you have shared!!! Do not ever think you have not made a difference in people's lives. I wish the best for you...and i love sharing your adventures. YOU both are absolutely Awesome!!! Love this video!!! YOU are such a Beautiful Couple...Rv, ing!!! Loved watching your bringing your RV to life! You are such an amazing RV couple!!! Thanks so much for sharing!!! I am so inspired by you both!!!! YOU are Both AWESOME!!!! Love your Video!!!s
You guys have done an amazing job. Your home is lovely!!! The absolute best parts were the hairy bits but you can only claim credit for how well cared for they are. 😆
your pup!!!!! so cute!!!! And yes - I live in utah and the cabinets, when painted here, seem to hold up ok. My first renovation I used regular paint and it did great. I've just finished my second RV renovation and I used a 1 step chalk paint and it went on really nicely - we shall see if it lasts! It's meant to be tough - so we shall see. I also used can spray paint for the cabinets in the bathroom and hate them already. The paint looks rough and we haven't even travelled yet!
Indeed it is. 😁 2 of them! One on the top and bottom. Ours have plastic pieces held by metal rivets. I removed them (still have them) because the sand storm in Texas "clogged" all my vertical hinges on my storage bays so that the doors don't close correctly without finagling. That door was the test. I removed it, cleaned it, and now it closes correctly. Going to do it with the rest but first I'm figuring out the best screw to replace the rivets because I don't want it to vibrate out on travel day. -J
Can mounts change it all! We are living full time with our 12 f350 rig 330k miles 6.7 and 31ft Laredo. I just did the cheap $99 cab mounts of Amazon and I have a Michigan truck, use a sawzall and reap the benefits of quiet bumps
Mounts are on the list! If I felt like I could really do them myself I’d do them but I don’t think I have all the tools I need at this point from what I’ve seen on RUclips. Still debating if I’m gonna do it myself or take it somewhere. -J
Just a thought for your stove top. I once painted an ugly gold fireplace trim in our 1970s sticks n bricks. I used a spray paint meant for grills and was very heat resistant. It turned out beautiful and never showed wear. All I remember is that I got it at the hardware store in the same area as other spray paint but it was specifically for painting high heat items.
Definitely recommend the below titled video for your cabinet situation to get the right stretchable caulk, and don't worry about your caulk gun skills, you just need to apply a small bead and push it into the crack with a wet fingertip. If you fail or have any excess, keep a wet paper towel or rag on hand to wipe it away and try again! It won't set fast enough to stress out about mistakes. "Stop Choosing the Wrong Caulking! (Get What the Pros Use)" -by The Funny Carpenter
Thanks for the info!! You also make "Wipe it away" sound so easy. I end up with it on the walls...floor...my shirt and pants... 😂😂😂 I will watch the video! -J
Morryde makes slides of many sizes for storage spaces. I’m guessing you’ve seen them. We added one to our 2006 Montana 2955RL a few years ago. We bought our rig when it was new; wish we had added the slide much sooner. It’s amazing how easy it is to find and get our stored stuff! We just had our brakes, drums, and bearings replaced, and I replaced the suspension with Morryde CRE3000, 1/2 inch thick hardware, and wet bolts with brass bushings-smoother, safer ride. God’s blessings on all your travels. Rollo
We’ve been considering those slides. Just too many things on the “want list” 😂😂😂😂 Ain’t that life. We’re hopefully replacing our hubs brakes and bearings this month. Suspension I’m hoping makes it through Alaska. Time will tell! -J
Just put a screw in the bottom of the hinge so the door doesn't fall down. Nice job of remodeling the rig as it is nice and bright with an open feel. You got a great deal for $12k as it appears very solid. Just watch you weights on all axes. I completely degrease, clean and retube all four trailer hubs every 10,000 miles. Might want to get an infrared gun to measure your trailer wheel hubs and tires temperatures every time you stop for increase in heat. I have had a trailer bearing go out in Alaska and parked us in the middle of road between Fairbanks and Anchorage.
You did a great job on your RV. We have a Truma, too, and it's great. (And I agree with the commenter who said don't buy new -- yours is made better than new ones.)
Have you looked at MyTrelino composting toilets? This would completely get rid of the black water tank. When urine mixes with feces, this is what causes the awful smell. So keeping them separate is key and this is what MyTrelino did well. Plus there is no water usage. I’m replacing my toilet with this one once i but an rv-hopefully this week!!
We have. The hurdle we can't get over for composting toilets is having a used TP trashcan in the RV. Totally cool with people going that route - great option with an especially high upside when it comes to emptying. But that con is just too big for us at the moment. -J
White latex caulk would work wonders and then can be painted if you wish afterwards. L brackets on the underside of the desk to hold to the wall or to the floor.
I enjoyed your tour of your home on wheels. You have done a beautiful job of renovating. You hit the nail on the head they do not make RVs solid like the one you’ve got. As always, I love your channel and your videos. Safe travels.❤
So glad you enjoyed the tour! Yeah...I told Kalyn I keep feeling like a curmudgeon "They don't make things the way they used to" but it really seems to be true in this case! -J
Great video we just got done with the last of our modifications after 2 years of full time . I agree these modifications are a must . Kalyn I’m with you one of my must haves was a fireplace and we just put one in . I love everything you’ve done especially the light colors mine were that ugly brown too ! Safe travels guys can’t wait to see your next adventure ( Ruth)
The RV looks great 👍 You guys did a fantastic job with the upgrades! Your presentation on the videos is really entertaining! They are so enjoyable to watch! 😀
I’m really new to your channel. I think I started halfway through your Alaska trip. So I have been binge watching some of your previous videos and this renovation is beautiful. ❤
I absolutely love the improvements that you guys have made to your RV. The two of you and your fur babies are such an inspiration to my husband and myself. We are planning FT RVing starting this September. We are in the process of upgrading our used RV to make it as boondocking friendly as possible. So proud of the fortitude the both of you display. I hope that we actually run into you guys sometime. Your videos have been so helpful.
I have a 2000 Jayco trailer..same cabinet issues. Tub and Tile silicone works awesome, either white or clear and paint. Expands with humidity and weather changes. This sounds crazy but rhino lining on the cookstove cover can be a cool look and is too tough to chip off. One last tip..a vinyl "logo" in your back window above the bikes. When driving behind an RV my eyes are always drawn straight to the rear window, a nosy thing I suppose. LOL. You guys are so great at organizing, it's very impressive! I am selling my Arizona property this summer and am looking at your identical set up. I figure on $15,000 for a 5th wheel and $15,000 to $20,000 for a truck. Great Video!
Yay! Been looking forward to this video! Your interior is gorgeous! Also Love that you have a bunny. When we first started RV life, we had 4 ferrets. Sadly, they’ve all passed since then, but so many people thought we were nuts for having partial-free-roaming ferrets 😂 I also super agree that older models are made so much nicer and solid! Our fifth wheel is a 2014, and we have friends that just bought a brand new one a year ago, and the differences are so noticeable. A lot of our cabinetry and cabinet doors are real wood, but theirs is not and are already falling apart, amongst other things.
inspirational... a lot of that is because the redo is doable! so good to see a redo that looks good and is something ordinary people can pull off 😃👍🏽👍🏽 well done! thank you :)
Oil primer is your best friend!! -- first - sand really good. Then, use OIL Kilz Primer. (Paint the front first) after solid drying time, flip and oil prime the back. - again plenty of drying time. Next paint with your choice (the back cause it's facing up now) dry, flip and paint the front. -- in this order if the door sticks or scratches on the work surface it will be on the back side and its your choice to touch up or not vs having to if it was on the front. -- hinges - if they are dirty soak in asotone dry and spray with a metalic finish. If mostly clean, rubbing alcohol bath then metallic paint. Did mine 4 years ago and still look great!
we've been rving permanently for the last 11 years & we actually started in 1975 ... but gave it up a couple of times for the stick house. There has never been an RV that my husband did NOT extend the bed platform. So it's understandable. Greg & Victoria turn us on to you so you can thank them for the new subscriber. Smooth roads & plenty of wifi.
Yay! It was worth the wait for this fabulous tour! I can't believe how much more spacious and residential you have made it! Your style is so beautiful, yet clean and simple! 🤗 I may be in the minority here, but I love your flooring! They don't make that kind of carpet anymore and I wish they did because I think it's beautiful. 😍 It's also very neutral, so good call on that one! Those roller shades are one of the most ingenious things I think I've seen! You absolutely made the best use out of that space and I would not want to give that up if I were you either! You are absolutely 1000% correct, RVs are not made well anymore. We have been looking to upgrade our current situation and the one that seems to stand out is Brinkley. They are pricey, but the quality seems to be there. I haven't seen one in person yet but based on what I have seen online and watching factory tours.🤓 Thank you thank you thank you for doing a tour, you have made my heart so happy! 💗🥰
So glad you enjoyed it! I don't think we would mind the carpet as much if it were....not 20 years old. 😬 Like...I've shampooed it several times....the water is never clean no matter how much I go over it. (TMI??) -J
The only thing I really wish we had was an opposing slide! If this RV had that we'd keep it for absolutely ever. (Which we may end up doing anyway...who knows.) -J
Hi there! My husband and I have been watching your channel for awhile now (but we haven't subscribed until now). Great video and upgrades! I just had to comment on your choice of RV! We bought a fifth wheel in 2009 (it's a Carriage Carri-Lite) for the exact same reason...because it felt so much like a home! We've been to many RV shows and we always come home thinking, "No upgrade for us. We're happy with our fifth wheel." We just spent the past year doing a few upgrades to ours as well (we ripped out the carpet and replaced it with vinyl plank flooring and new carpet in the bedroom, got a new fridge (we were pretty sure its days were numbered), and did a little painting (our cupboards are honey oak but we've only painted the trim for now). Whenever you decide to purchase a new fifth wheel, I'd go for a used one again. So many horror stories about flex frame going around right now and that's concerning. The old ones are solid and have usually stood the test of time.We are also planning a trip to Alaska this August to celebrate our 20th anniversary but we decided to do a land tour/cruise with Holland America instead (which I should point out was the first advertisement that came up when I clicked on this video 😂). as we're retired and thought it would be easier than the long trek across Canada from where we live in Southwestern Ontario. Safe travels -- looking forward to all of your Alaskan adventures 😊
Thanks so much subscribing! I hear you so loud and clear with the RVs. We have no idea what the future holds... but man...So many newer models come with so many problems. (Not that we don't have doors falling off ours or anything. 😂 -J)
As you know, we travel in a 21 year old RV same length as yours by Keystone. The cabinets, frames, overall structures of these RVs if cared for, beat most of the new ones. Yes, some of the cosmetics are not as good, but that’s just skin deep. I replaced my wheel, brake assemblies last year that you talked about. Not as pricy as I thought it might be if you can manage to find the time to do it yourself.
Yep! The plan is to do them ourselves in the next 2 weeks. Still have a couple of ducks to line up but I'm going to be thrilled to have them all replaced. Will have someone else around to give me a hand as well which will be super helpful! These old RVs are strong! -J
Hello. I bought a 2009 Bighorn. 5th wheel. And the quality is better then shiny new one. I also bought a 1999 F350 dually for the 5th wheel. I have upgraded the suspension with Morride and the Pin box with GenY.and went from a 4 leaf spring to a 5 leaf spring. I have purchased but not installed a composting toilet because my 1st 2 workcamping gigs are FHU. I'm still planning my battery and solar set up. I put 1870 solar panels on plus 200 portable solar panels but have not hooked up since i have all the victron equipment. The wiring is a bit intimidating for me as a non electrician. But the end of summer it will be done. I like living in a 5th wheel since for 36 years i lived in a Semi truck(No Home) so this is fantastic! I haven't painted or remodeled the in side yet. Not because i don't want to but for the lack of imagination and time😊 It's encouraging to see what you have done with your 5th wheel.
You two are an awesome couple. Just fell in Love with you 4 when I first started watching you. I know you are going to have an amazing time in Alkaska. I can’t wait for those videos. I plan on going on the road in a year or so and Alkaska is on my list. When I get out there I hope to meet you all. Love y’all Dawn Marie🧡🙏🦋
I just found your channel and I love it. you guys are doing exactly what my wife and I are going to do in a few years. Grab us a 20 year old fifth wheel and redo it BoHo style 😀. live the life of boondocking
Hard to work with and expensive, Sikaflex 1a caulk from Home Depot should solve your cabinet panel cracking issues. your white should be a close match and if not paint the joints
So incredibly kind of you to send over the gift with this suggestion. Thanks. If you know me...I haven't met a caulk that isn't incredibly difficult to work with...so this should be interesting if I give it a go. 😂 -J
Oh Joe, you will learn that we wives are almost always right! Both of my husbands learned that. lol No, it is always Trinity. You know we love, love, love her. Every video is better with her! 💗 Wow! You are so organized. I guess that would be key in a small space. Love what you have done. You have certainly taken good bones and made them even better. I am sure the original owners are happy because of that. I absolutely love your home. It is so beautiful, looks comfy and cozy.
@@OpenRoading you are an onery one! That’s something I love about seeing the two of you. You love to joke with each other. Too many people are just way too serious imnsho. Life is best spent laughing.
@@ernestinebyrne9912 100000% It's all about timing too. Sometimes...best not to joke - but when you've been together for years you get better at knowing when a light moment is needed even in rough times. -J
Thanks for the review of your house. I am also renovating my rolling home. Just a couple of suggestions for your consideration. The black stove, use lacquer paint. You can get spray cans at the hardware store. As for the cracking around the cabinet doors, the center is supposed to "float" separate from the edges. I supposed you used a latex paint. Latex is water based so thin it down to runny consistency with water (you will have to remove the doors) and let it flow down in the cracks. A couple of applications should do the trick. That way the paint will cover the wood but not thicken and crack when the doors flex when traveling down the road. Love your content, but I'm waiting on the suggestion some other content creator friends gave you to improve your content. I think it was make longer videos but that is just my guess.
Thanks for the info! We put the advice Craig and Victoria gave us in this video: Main ones - create content people want to see over content you want to create - look for growing channels and learn from what you see - treat it as a job not a hobby. Lots of hours and consistent deadlines.
@@OpenRoading Thanks. I look forward to your videos. you are both very personable and easy to relate to. However I have now watched all your videos and go through a little withdrawal every week. Waiting on the Canada crossing video.
Is it just the cabinet doors that are showing the old original color? It coul d be from the lacquer buildup from the original spray. I might suggest using Kilz primer to seal and block the bleeding/crack then repaint it once Kilz is completely dry. They sell both oil based and latex based Kilz.
We actually used Kilz primer and love it! What's happening is in the corner where 2 wood panels meet, the paint is separating when the humidity drops. When we are in Florida those cracks mostly disappear. What I THINK (not an expert) is going on is the wood is ever so slightly expanding and contracting and since 2 panels are meeting at that point it's separating the paint. -J
I feel like the texture would be super hard to clean when like flour or something is spilled on it. (Just going off what my truck bed liner is like - maybe it's not similar). -J
Like the channel. I like to binge watch so I let the videos save up. Medical issues has stalled my wife and I getting a RV. I watch a few travel channels with each of them doing it different. With $$$ always being an issue and we would love to make it a home away from home I really like the way y'all have transformed your RV. Gives me a real insight of what we can actually do to make it OURS. Stay safe. Papa Out. Oh any we would want to take our Granddaughter. And maybe her parents. HAHA
I really agree on the home away from home and I'm so sorry about the medical issues. We didn't have medical issues but we did have a bunch of unexpected bills and expenses in 2021 that prevented us from doing our Alaska trip that year so I understand that side of the frustration! I also really agree with making the space "A home." If you are spending an extended period of time in a space (we're talking months and years as opposed to a couple weeks vacation) having a space that feels like home makes a big difference! -J
I think that a white, paintable, permanently flexible caulk may help. Even if the paint cracks, the caulk should remain in place, and the white should hide it. 😀
@@OpenRoading haha Joe, I know the finger 👉 smoothing technique can be a mess! I found a tool made by Hyde called Calk-Rite. It does an amazing job without getting your hand covered in calk! Also you can use painters tape to contain the calk where you want it and keep it neat. The tape works especially well on bathtubs, but might not be necessary on on the cabinet .😀
This is the kind of RV I would like. One with very solid bones. I wouldn’t need to make it as pretty, or nice looking, as you guys have, but I want the bones. Something that makes the continual fixing feel worth it, cause we all know RVs need continuous fixing. 😁
I'm not an expert but I believe there were quite a few good models in the early 2000s. There are a couple brands now that seem to be taking pride in solid structure. Time will tell though! -J
It was sooo dark when we bought it. It is so strange to me that it has taken almost until now for RV manufacturers to start doing lighter interiors. -J
We always take our printer and between copies, scans for us and others and finally printing, we can't be with out it.. also, gets me some beers... i print for beer... hahaha
The previous owner took really good care of her, we’ve probably aged her more in the past 5 years than she did in her first 15. 😂 But we also have done a lot of cosmetic work! -J
We fulltime in a 2004 Holiday Rambler Alumascape travel trailer and it is almost identical to yours except the bathroom setup. It IS a Solid well built RV. Must have been a great year
Thanks for this nice overview video. It's really a beautiful van. When you have time can you show one time in a video how you slide in and out the van. That's would be very interesting for me. All the best for you all and the coming Alaska Tour❣
Hi there. I think we're losing something in translation. Do you mean the slideout in the living room and bedroom? If so...we push a button....and it slides out. 🤣 There's a bit more on the motor of the big slide out in this video: ruclips.net/video/Cuy50d7XpqI/видео.html
I can understand the 600W solar panels but 300Ah battery storage doesn't seem like very much. But I guess it's worked out for you so far. You could get a portable power station to supplement your storage and charge it with your panels.
We've been offered a few portable power stations recently but I think I'd rather upgrade our current bank than have something "floating" around the RV. So I think the main reason we get by with 300ah is because we don't have a TV. Our primary "energy sucks" are our laptops. This year we added starlink and that has been something to contend with if I'm working later into the night. Generally - you want your battery bank to be sized so that your solar panels can recharge it in a single day. Otherwise....you can end up falling further and further behind. That's how ours was sized. We actually are expanding our battery bank soon-ish...but it already has me trying to figure out how to add another solar panel. 😂 Sorry for the book of a response. 😂-J
That's actually the same ideas that I was thinking about too. Since your system uses individual components, it let's you be flexible when you want to expand and adapt. It looks great already.
That's what I thought!!! That one where we said "this is the worst one" yeah....that was my wood putty one. Maybe I did it wrong. 😬 I think my next attempt will be caulk....but I'm terrrrible with a caulk gun.... so....could be fun. -J
Could work! I think the problem is the wood expansion and contraction (the crack is where 2 panels meet). So the solution will probably be caulk like so many have suggested. I just am the absolute worst with a caulk gun (as seen in the video with the "Devastated" Thumbnail.) -J
Subtle decal, I like the size! I'm not a fan of the idea of a BIG emblem on the front, feel it'd be too shouty. Maybe a pair of similar sized decal on the sides somewhere.
Y’all did such a great job! but I especially liked all the throwback clips!! Seeing y’all pack up a house was so weird, since we’ve only known you in RV life! 😆
Loved the tour. It truly does look more like a home than an rv. Regarding the seam in cabinet doors, I’d test this on one door: a very flexible, yet strong sealant. The best I’ve found is OSI Quadmax found at Home Depot and some hardware stores. Make sure it says QuadMax. I’ve used dozens of these cartridges on construction and rv projects and it never lets me down. It’s strong yet flexible. You were wise to think light as you did all your construction projects.
Caulking is a real art. I struggle with it also. I know the rules: put on real thin, dip finger in lightly soapy water, spread evenly with one long stroke. I watch the experts. They make it seem so easy. Applying a VERY thin bead is the secret. Still, I struggle. 😂
@@mikeweis5925 Right! Experts make it look so simple and easy. Just slide it right on there. Nope. Not me. Globs, bunches. Get's beads on the nozzle. *sigh* -J
Join the Alaska Postcard Club! Signups close May 31st.
openroading.com/postcardclub
I joined
@@joycekleinert5908 Awesome! Thanks so much! You'll be getting an email in early June! -J
Ooop gotta change my address - house sold! LOL how do I let you know?
@@marlowestone1215 If you haven't already - Still sorting through the inbox - send it to rvopenroading@gmail.com -J
YOU GUYS ARE LITERALLY THE CUTEST RV-ING COUPLE OUT THERE!!! ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉
What a compliment! Thank you! 😍-K
They Really do have a 100 % positive chemistry with the audience don't they !
I love your videos. Was a RVer for 17 years. I think your RV is perfect. I enjoyed your tour. Do not buy a new one. The new ones aren’t built like yours. I am also happy you kept Trinity. I’m a dog person so she adds so much.
We aren't planning on buying a new one in the super near future. But we also know this one will need a complete overhaul at some point...and I'm not sure we're up to that. Time will tell though. We definitely don't want to trade this one out for one that trembles at the sight of a forest road. -J
I love what you have done. I just purchased a 2013 for $25,000. I would like to lighten mine up. But I’m concerned I’ll start the painting and never complete it. I am living in an RV park outside of Houston. I miss CA but cannot afford to go back and buy. Traveling mercies!!
@@cynthiaogrey4330 Yeah, CA is EXPENSIVE! Even just traveling through it.
Yeah, painting is certainly a project you want to complete if you start! -J
I recommend using white caulk to fill in the cracks on your cabinet doors.
My husband recommends white caulk as well.
Try a good silicon acrylic mix - bathroom caulk.
Regular painter's caulk will dry out and crack.
Then paint over it one more coat.
And caulk in low humidity!
Another great video. You guys should have way more subscribers by now. I guess there's a lot of competition now.
Love the (We Still do) sign above bed. 😎🙈
We arrived in Alaska five days ago. We’re way out in the wilderness working for a beautiful lodge. They provide our meals and housing. I work as a gift store retail clerk 40 hours a week and my husband works in ground keeping 40 hours a week. Will be here for 18 weeks. Leaving Arizona hot summer for this summer in the north is a much cooler move. We try never to miss any of your videos and have gone back to watch your older ones. Have safe travels. Alaska is beautiful for what we’ve seen so far.
That's awesome! Yeah - We love the desert...in the winter. In the summer, nooooot so much. 😂
You're making me miss last summer a little bit. I really enjoyed working at the camp store in Mackinaw City. Made some good friends. -J
Caulk! Caulk! Caulk! On all those white cabinets.
Hidden angle iron to connect the desk to the wall.
Bookshelf: cut straight down the sides of that rail, and remove it, add a short light piano hinge with some strong magnets to hold it up, or small (pretty) sliding locks on each side on the outside of the rail.
That’s all! Really enjoyed the tour and I was surprised by all the storage you have. Enjoy your channel immensely!
I love the bookshelf idea. May give try at a shot when we are stationary near tools.
Now I have to face my mortal enemy once again and grab a tube of caulk. 🥷
Love what you’ve done with the RV. The phrase “they don’t build them like they used to” comes to mind. We have a new fifth wheel and it’s just built so cheaply. One idea for your stove, take that metal cover off. They sell cutting boards that “mount” on the top of the stove. I’ve even seen it in black. We had one in our RV that had very little counter space and it was a Godsend. They sell them on Amazon. Give Trinity hugs from me. ❤️
I kept thinking why not get one of those stove boards instead of the stove cover? I see them on Facebook Marketplace on my neck of the woods. A friend gifted me one that's been useful because I share my counter space with my sibling who owns every kitchen accessory.
We've considered it! What we like about the metal cover is that it quickly lifts up out of the way (I don't have to set it somewhere else when using the stove) and when it's down in place it's the same level as the counter which is something a board or butcher block would not be. Those are small things, but I think they are 2 small things that would probably really become annoying to me over time. -J
@@OpenRoading That makes so much sense. Safe travels.
@@OpenRoadingTry the Rust-Oleum auto, BBQ, & stove paint on the stove cover. I used it successfully on my old fireplace doors.
@@yakarobed Sadly....that's exactly what we used. 😂 -J
Totally understand the older but better built RV. Mine is a 2004 but when I shop for new I’m extremely disappointed with the lack of quality. I love my old lady and do my best to take care of her.
Yeah...If we ever shop for a new RV I'm honestly not looking forward to the process. -J
I live in Texas and between the summer droughts and winter floods there is a very wide range of humidity. I was getting the same cracks on my cabinet doors. When the cracks were open I caulked them with a thin bead of “DAP Alex Plus All purpose acrylic latex caulk plus silicone” It comes in white and clear and is for “molding, trim, baseboards, windows and doors”. Even though I used the white, when it cured, I repainted the caulk lines with one coat of paint because the color isn’t a bright white. It’s been two years and so far, so good. I got it at Lowe's but I'm sure HD has it too.
I sold RV’s for 16 years and I have to say the older RV’s were built better than the new ones especially during and after the “C” virus years. We own a 2005 40 ft diesel pusher. Enjoy your travels!
2020-2021 ruined everything it seems. -J
Trinity must be talking to her agent about screen time and treat compensation 😂
She definitely wants to be in the middle of the conversation! ☺️-K
You two are the stars. The dog is just a sidekick.
Don't tell Trinity (or half our subscribers) that! 😂 -J
@OpenRoading your so right! There are many creators here where the pets are the reason we watch. Some where we can't stomach the humans to the point we eventually sadly stopped watching. Dogs rule some humans drool...
@@louissantoscoy6461 Hopefully we don't fall into that category! 😂 -J
@OpenRoading so far, you guys are just fine. When I see some start over acting, it gets tough to watch. If more would just be real and not looking for an Emmy. Lol. just my 2 cents
We really like the Home a Roam couple. Just so down to earth people
@@louissantoscoy6461 Well I promise you we always try to have extra energy but keep it real. We don't want to be boring. 🙂 -J
It's so nice when our husbands have to tell us we were right!! LOL Thank you for sharing your home with us! I have watched a few videos on some newer models and I would be hesitant to buy a new one.
Oh man...I'd be nothing without Kalyn. I can't speak for you and your husband but I can say that without my wife I'd never do anything interesting, try new things, or do anything nearly as exciting in life. So yeah...she's right a lot and I try to make sure I let her know that I see it. 😁
When it comes to newer RVs there are only a select few models that we'd even consider and even then...with some hesitancy. -J
Upgrades are worth it! It's your custom home!
My class B is 20 years old, and I've renovated most of the inside ( they're never made for full time living). And the decals, too 👏👏
Nice job y'all!!
Thanks so much! Yeah - when you really make the space your own it really has that “home” feel! -J
I too had to downsize boxes of books. Trinity is adorable 🥰 she wants to be part of the video.
I'm 100% confident she knows what filming days are. -J
The older rvs are built so much better. Love your channel
I’m the old guy over here saying “they don’t build them like they used to!” 😂 -J
Hi Kalyn & Joseph! Please keep your RV for as long as you can stand to. Don't let FOMO take you over. If you have any doubts just watch the Liz Amazing and Blu Ox RV inspection channels. I don't have awesome remodel skills or help doing a project like that so I'd be looking for a motorhome already remodeled or getting a new one from a reliable company that will stand by its warranty. Your home looks great, your pets look great, you look great. Just drive until you can't and if you retire from the road with the same RV you will have money saved so that you can house yourselves when it's time to stop driving. May you drive until you're 105!
No fomo here! Just also don't want to run it into the ground. We'll see what time tells. The first "Major upgrade" we need to do in the next year or two is completely overhaul the truck or get a new (to us) one. She's got some lingering issues that will need attention but we're still not quite there yet to where we can consider pouring a lot of cash into her. -J
I love your videos so much. On Fridays I think, hmmm what’s happening with Open Roading! I just think you are the kind of people so many of us would like as friends. Funny, smart, kind to each other, a joy to be around and not pretentious at all. It is so fun living vicariously through your adventures. Thank you for always making me smile.
So glad we can bring a weekly smile! We hope we can continue doing that every week! -J
Yall are so inspirational! Love that you bought a 20 year old camper and love it! We bought a almost 20 year old pop up to upgrade the family from tent camping. And we took our maiden Voyage this weekend at a Jellystone and loved it!
That’s awesome! I know I’m old because I keep finding myself saying “they don’t build them like they used to!” 😂 I don’t know how many miles our girl has left in her but we’ll keep her going as long as we can. -J
Wow, great job on the video and all your upgrades! SO glad you took Trinity into your hearts and home, she's so precious. Cody too, may he hang in there and stay healthy as long as possible.
Thank you! So kind. -J
You are right about the quality of the older RVs. Before our 2017 travel trailer (only used for camping and living in while building), we had a 2005 5th wheel. Both RVs were of equal brand/price but the older RV seemed much sturdier in the cabinets, shelving, etc...
It’s crazy to me that newer RVs aren’t built to be sturdy. -J
I love what you've done to your RV. It's really beautiful. We bought a 20 year old Jayco (23') for our first RV and it had more storage than our current 30' Airstream. We did the same thing with our mattress. It hangs over a little, but it's so much more comfortable than the one that came with it. And I like the extra length. My feet hung over the bottom of the old one, and I'm not even that tall. (5'5") I had to laugh at the stick to prop it up to get to the storage. We did the same thing.
Haha! Those shock things are nowhere near strong enough to hold it up. 🤣
And RV mattress sizes are so silly! -J
I would suggest using automotive paint for the stove cover, it tends to be more resistant to abrasive chemicals and oils.
If my next attempt doesn’t work I’ll give this a shot. Thanks! -J
You get a paintable acrylic silicone that you can use on the cracks in cabinetry in your kitchen. It allows for contraction and expansion of the wood
I was really hoping not to have to face my mortal enemy yet again….caulk. -J
I did the cabinets in my home and used Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit. It takes time for it but I have only had to touch up once in 5 years and it was a cabinet I use everyday. Hope you find something to update your cabinets. Be safe on your travels. Love 💕 you bunny and pup. 🐶
This paint job would work great if we stayed in one spot. 😟 what I need to know is whether or not it will handle the drastic change from Florida humidity to Phoenix dryness. That seems to be our issue. The wood or paint contracts in the dry air. -J
You guys did a great job in remodeling your rig. I would keep your rig as long as you can, it is put together well compared to the new RV's coming out.
Yeah. Certainly going to probably need to get a different truck before we ever consider a new rig. -J
The 31 (or whatever the number is) is usually the floor length. When you go to do the brakes get the package that includes the entire brake part, bearings etc. Easier to replace the entire thing and gets rid of any rust that formed in the brakes. your axle likely has a stamp telling you what it is or the sticker in the rv will list if it is a dexter 6K axle, etc. If you want a video to understand what replacing the brakes, bearings takes look up South main Auto on youtube and look a couple years back in his videos for camper brake video. He (Eric O) is very detailed. If I am around I would walk you through it, it is not hard I use to do a couple trailers a year just to keep the brakes clean.
Awesome info - thanks! Yeah. If all goes according to plan I'll be replacing everything with pre-greased bearings etc. We'll see! And yes, I'll be doing a bunch of research to make sure I don't over tighten the wrong thing or under tighten something.
We won't tell the story of when I drove 60 miles with loose lugs... -J
My wife and I have the exact same 5th wheel, We haven't done any upgrades. We winter in Florida and store it onsite, For just three months it serves well, Love your videos Oh and we also have a trailer in Alaska lol. It also stays onsite up there and we fly up and back each year, Our sons own that campground,
If you are going to make the trip every year.... owning 2 RVs is for SURE the way to go. 😁 -J
I wouldn't even think about buying an RV of any brand after 2020 .... Wall Street squeezed the juice outa the lemon.... and it shows!! Travel safe guys your 5'vr is better than 90% out there
She's a beast that's for sure! -J
Love your videos...and all you have shared!!! Do not ever think you have not made a difference in people's lives. I wish the best for you...and i love sharing your adventures. YOU both are absolutely Awesome!!! Love this video!!! YOU are such a Beautiful Couple...Rv, ing!!! Loved watching your bringing your RV to life! You are such an amazing RV couple!!! Thanks so much for sharing!!! I am so inspired by you both!!!! YOU are Both AWESOME!!!!
Love your Video!!!s
Thanks so much for your kindness. 🤗
You guys have done an amazing job. Your home is lovely!!! The absolute best parts were the hairy bits but you can only claim credit for how well cared for they are. 😆
😂 For sure. -J
your pup!!!!! so cute!!!! And yes - I live in utah and the cabinets, when painted here, seem to hold up ok. My first renovation I used regular paint and it did great. I've just finished my second RV renovation and I used a 1 step chalk paint and it went on really nicely - we shall see if it lasts! It's meant to be tough - so we shall see. I also used can spray paint for the cabinets in the bathroom and hate them already. The paint looks rough and we haven't even travelled yet!
Thanks for the tips! -J
The propane door is missing.A set screw at the bottom very short philips screw Probably eight cents for the screw
Indeed it is. 😁 2 of them! One on the top and bottom.
Ours have plastic pieces held by metal rivets. I removed them (still have them) because the sand storm in Texas "clogged" all my vertical hinges on my storage bays so that the doors don't close correctly without finagling.
That door was the test. I removed it, cleaned it, and now it closes correctly. Going to do it with the rest but first I'm figuring out the best screw to replace the rivets because I don't want it to vibrate out on travel day. -J
Can mounts change it all! We are living full time with our 12 f350 rig 330k miles 6.7 and 31ft Laredo. I just did the cheap $99 cab mounts of Amazon and I have a Michigan truck, use a sawzall and reap the benefits of quiet bumps
Mounts are on the list! If I felt like I could really do them myself I’d do them but I don’t think I have all the tools I need at this point from what I’ve seen on RUclips. Still debating if I’m gonna do it myself or take it somewhere. -J
Just a thought for your stove top. I once painted an ugly gold fireplace trim in our 1970s sticks n bricks. I used a spray paint meant for grills and was very heat resistant. It turned out beautiful and never showed wear. All I remember is that I got it at the hardware store in the same area as other spray paint but it was specifically for painting high heat items.
That’s what I used! 😭😭😭
Definitely recommend the below titled video for your cabinet situation to get the right stretchable caulk, and don't worry about your caulk gun skills, you just need to apply a small bead and push it into the crack with a wet fingertip. If you fail or have any excess, keep a wet paper towel or rag on hand to wipe it away and try again! It won't set fast enough to stress out about mistakes.
"Stop Choosing the Wrong Caulking! (Get What the Pros Use)" -by The Funny Carpenter
Thanks for the info!! You also make "Wipe it away" sound so easy. I end up with it on the walls...floor...my shirt and pants... 😂😂😂
I will watch the video! -J
Morryde makes slides of many sizes for storage spaces. I’m guessing you’ve seen them. We added one to our 2006 Montana 2955RL a few years ago. We bought our rig when it was new; wish we had added the slide much sooner. It’s amazing how easy it is to find and get our stored stuff! We just had our brakes, drums, and bearings replaced, and I replaced the suspension with Morryde CRE3000, 1/2 inch thick hardware, and wet bolts with brass bushings-smoother, safer ride. God’s blessings on all your travels. Rollo
We’ve been considering those slides. Just too many things on the “want list” 😂😂😂😂 Ain’t that life.
We’re hopefully replacing our hubs brakes and bearings this month. Suspension I’m hoping makes it through Alaska. Time will tell! -J
I love your home. Your bunny and puppy make your family complete. Your videos always make my day. Thank you.
So glad you enjoy them! -J
No idea how to fix it!! I love the honesty on painting. And EVERY video is a Trinity one!!
It's true...Trinity needs her camera time! -J
Just put a screw in the bottom of the hinge so the door doesn't fall down. Nice job of remodeling the rig as it is nice and bright with an open feel. You got a great deal for $12k as it appears very solid. Just watch you weights on all axes. I completely degrease, clean and retube all four trailer hubs every 10,000 miles. Might want to get an infrared gun to measure your trailer wheel hubs and tires temperatures every time you stop for increase in heat. I have had a trailer bearing go out in Alaska and parked us in the middle of road between Fairbanks and Anchorage.
Hoping to replace the hubs, bearings, and brakes in the next couple of weeks. I’ll have to get a better maintenance routine on them. -J
You did a great job on your RV. We have a Truma, too, and it's great. (And I agree with the commenter who said don't buy new -- yours is made better than new ones.)
Thank you! -J
Have you looked at MyTrelino composting toilets? This would completely get rid of the black water tank. When urine mixes with feces, this is what causes the awful smell. So keeping them separate is key and this is what MyTrelino did well. Plus there is no water usage.
I’m replacing my toilet with this one once i but an rv-hopefully this week!!
We have. The hurdle we can't get over for composting toilets is having a used TP trashcan in the RV. Totally cool with people going that route - great option with an especially high upside when it comes to emptying. But that con is just too big for us at the moment. -J
White latex caulk would work wonders and then can be painted if you wish afterwards.
L brackets on the underside of the desk to hold to the wall or to the floor.
Now I just have to not get caulk everywhere when I do it. -J
For the stove top use appliance paint
Will that be OK with the heat of the stove? We were trying high heat rustoleum paint (for grills and such). -J
I enjoyed your tour of your home on wheels. You have done a beautiful job of renovating. You hit the nail on the head they do not make RVs solid like the one you’ve got. As always, I love your channel and your videos. Safe travels.❤
So glad you enjoyed the tour! Yeah...I told Kalyn I keep feeling like a curmudgeon "They don't make things the way they used to" but it really seems to be true in this case! -J
Great video we just got done with the last of our modifications after 2 years of full time . I agree these modifications are a must . Kalyn I’m with you one of my must haves was a fireplace and we just put one in . I love everything you’ve done especially the light colors mine were that ugly brown too ! Safe travels guys can’t wait to see your next adventure ( Ruth)
Thanks so much! We don’t understand why RVs come out of the factory soooo dark! 🤯 -J
The RV looks great 👍 You guys did a fantastic job with the upgrades! Your presentation on the videos is really entertaining! They are so enjoyable to watch! 😀
Thanks so much! We’re so glad they are interesting to people beyond our family. 😃 -J
I’m really new to your channel. I think I started halfway through your Alaska trip. So I have been binge watching some of your previous videos and this renovation is beautiful. ❤
Thank you! And thanks so much for watching. If you ever make it back to "We're broke" going back any further than that is at your own risk... 😂 -J
I love it❤
You did a great job ❤
Thank you! 😄-K
Y’all have done a lot of work! Well done!! It definitely looks like a home!
Thanks Dana! -J
There's spray on products that will work and fit the decor.
Good video.
Which problem are we referring to here? -J
I absolutely love the improvements that you guys have made to your RV. The two of you and your fur babies are such an inspiration to my husband and myself. We are planning FT RVing starting this September. We are in the process of upgrading our used RV to make it as boondocking friendly as possible. So proud of the fortitude the both of you display. I hope that we actually run into you guys sometime. Your videos have been so helpful.
So kind. Thanks so much! I’m sure we’ll bump into each other at some point! -J
I have a 2000 Jayco trailer..same cabinet issues. Tub and Tile silicone works awesome, either white or clear and paint. Expands with humidity and weather changes. This sounds crazy but rhino lining on the cookstove cover can be a cool look and is too tough to chip off. One last tip..a vinyl "logo" in your back window above the bikes. When driving behind an RV my eyes are always drawn straight to the rear window, a nosy thing I suppose. LOL. You guys are so great at organizing, it's very impressive! I am selling my Arizona property this summer and am looking at your identical set up. I figure on $15,000 for a 5th wheel and $15,000 to $20,000 for a truck. Great Video!
Best of luck to you as you shop for your perfect setup!! -J
Try caulking the cracks. Just make sure the caulk is paintable.
Gonna do this…:but me + caulk = huge mess. 😬😬 -J
Use white silicone to cover the cracking on your cupboards
Time to make a mess…. 😂 -J
Yay! Been looking forward to this video! Your interior is gorgeous!
Also Love that you have a bunny. When we first started RV life, we had 4 ferrets. Sadly, they’ve all passed since then, but so many people thought we were nuts for having partial-free-roaming ferrets 😂
I also super agree that older models are made so much nicer and solid! Our fifth wheel is a 2014, and we have friends that just bought a brand new one a year ago, and the differences are so noticeable. A lot of our cabinetry and cabinet doors are real wood, but theirs is not and are already falling apart, amongst other things.
You certainly have to get used to the side eye if you have unique pets on the road. 😂 -J
Great video as usual! You have a sweet home! If you do buy another RV, don't buy new!! Happy trails!❤😊
For sure! There are only 1 or 2 new brands we would even consider…but they are $$$$ -J
inspirational... a lot of that is because the redo is doable! so good to see a redo that looks good and is something ordinary people can pull off 😃👍🏽👍🏽
well done! thank you :)
That's for sure. If Joe can do it....literally anyone can. Like...Literally. 😂 -J
Now I understand why your decals needed replacing! Even the most expensive 3M or Gerber marine vinyl only has about a 5-7 year warranty.
You mean they don't make them to last 20 years of direct sunlight?! 😂 -J
Love your videos. Love that yall are so real. Love what yall have done to your RV. Thanks for sharing your lives with us. Yall are a beautiful couple.
So kind of you. Thank you! -J
Oil primer is your best friend!! -- first - sand really good. Then, use OIL Kilz Primer. (Paint the front first) after solid drying time, flip and oil prime the back. - again plenty of drying time. Next paint with your choice (the back cause it's facing up now) dry, flip and paint the front. -- in this order if the door sticks or scratches on the work surface it will be on the back side and its your choice to touch up or not vs having to if it was on the front. -- hinges - if they are dirty soak in asotone dry and spray with a metalic finish. If mostly clean, rubbing alcohol bath then metallic paint. Did mine 4 years ago and still look great!
Thanks for the tip! We used Kilz primer but all latex. -J
we've been rving permanently for the last 11 years & we actually started in 1975 ... but gave it up a couple of times for the stick house. There has never been an RV that my husband did NOT extend the bed platform. So it's understandable. Greg & Victoria turn us on to you so you can thank them for the new subscriber. Smooth roads & plenty of wifi.
Yay! It was worth the wait for this fabulous tour! I can't believe how much more spacious and residential you have made it! Your style is so beautiful, yet clean and simple! 🤗 I may be in the minority here, but I love your flooring! They don't make that kind of carpet anymore and I wish they did because I think it's beautiful. 😍 It's also very neutral, so good call on that one! Those roller shades are one of the most ingenious things I think I've seen! You absolutely made the best use out of that space and I would not want to give that up if I were you either! You are absolutely 1000% correct, RVs are not made well anymore. We have been looking to upgrade our current situation and the one that seems to stand out is Brinkley. They are pricey, but the quality seems to be there. I haven't seen one in person yet but based on what I have seen online and watching factory tours.🤓
Thank you thank you thank you for doing a tour, you have made my heart so happy! 💗🥰
So glad you enjoyed it! I don't think we would mind the carpet as much if it were....not 20 years old. 😬 Like...I've shampooed it several times....the water is never clean no matter how much I go over it. (TMI??) -J
I love it!!! We had a Montana 17 yr old same layout we were going to update but ended up buying a new to us Montana with 3 slides.
The only thing I really wish we had was an opposing slide! If this RV had that we'd keep it for absolutely ever. (Which we may end up doing anyway...who knows.) -J
Hi there! My husband and I have been watching your channel for awhile now (but we haven't subscribed until now). Great video and upgrades! I just had to comment on your choice of RV! We bought a fifth wheel in 2009 (it's a Carriage Carri-Lite) for the exact same reason...because it felt so much like a home! We've been to many RV shows and we always come home thinking, "No upgrade for us. We're happy with our fifth wheel." We just spent the past year doing a few upgrades to ours as well (we ripped out the carpet and replaced it with vinyl plank flooring and new carpet in the bedroom, got a new fridge (we were pretty sure its days were numbered), and did a little painting (our cupboards are honey oak but we've only painted the trim for now). Whenever you decide to purchase a new fifth wheel, I'd go for a used one again. So many horror stories about flex frame going around right now and that's concerning. The old ones are solid and have usually stood the test of time.We are also planning a trip to Alaska this August to celebrate our 20th anniversary but we decided to do a land tour/cruise with Holland America instead (which I should point out was the first advertisement that came up when I clicked on this video 😂). as we're retired and thought it would be easier than the long trek across Canada from where we live in Southwestern Ontario. Safe travels -- looking forward to all of your Alaskan adventures 😊
Thanks so much subscribing!
I hear you so loud and clear with the RVs. We have no idea what the future holds... but man...So many newer models come with so many problems. (Not that we don't have doors falling off ours or anything. 😂 -J)
As you know, we travel in a 21 year old RV same length as yours by Keystone. The cabinets, frames, overall structures of these RVs if cared for, beat most of the new ones. Yes, some of the cosmetics are not as good, but that’s just skin deep. I replaced my wheel, brake assemblies last year that you talked about. Not as pricy as I thought it might be if you can manage to find the time to do it yourself.
Yep! The plan is to do them ourselves in the next 2 weeks. Still have a couple of ducks to line up but I'm going to be thrilled to have them all replaced. Will have someone else around to give me a hand as well which will be super helpful!
These old RVs are strong! -J
Hello. I bought a 2009 Bighorn. 5th wheel. And the quality is better then shiny new one. I also bought a 1999 F350 dually for the 5th wheel. I have upgraded the suspension with Morride and the Pin box with GenY.and went from a 4 leaf spring to a 5 leaf spring. I have purchased but not installed a composting toilet because my 1st 2 workcamping gigs are FHU. I'm still planning my battery and solar set up. I put 1870 solar panels on plus 200 portable solar panels but have not hooked up since i have all the victron equipment. The wiring is a bit intimidating for me as a non electrician. But the end of summer it will be done. I like living in a 5th wheel since for 36 years i lived in a Semi truck(No Home) so this is fantastic! I haven't painted or remodeled the in side yet. Not because i don't want to but for the lack of imagination and time😊 It's encouraging to see what you have done with your 5th wheel.
Awesome stuff! Lots of really smart upgrades! -J
You two are an awesome couple. Just fell in Love with you 4 when I first started watching you. I know you are going to have an amazing time in Alkaska. I can’t wait for those videos. I plan on going on the road in a year or so and Alkaska is on my list. When I get out there I hope to meet you all. Love y’all Dawn Marie🧡🙏🦋
I hope you make it to your trip to Alaska faster than we did! Took us way too many years! -J
I just found your channel and I love it. you guys are doing exactly what my wife and I are going to do in a few years. Grab us a 20 year old fifth wheel and redo it BoHo style 😀. live the life of boondocking
Awesome! This RV has served us so well for the past 5 years! -J
Hard to work with and expensive, Sikaflex 1a caulk from Home Depot should solve your cabinet panel cracking issues. your white should be a close match and if not paint the joints
So incredibly kind of you to send over the gift with this suggestion. Thanks. If you know me...I haven't met a caulk that isn't incredibly difficult to work with...so this should be interesting if I give it a go. 😂 -J
Oh Joe, you will learn that we wives are almost always right! Both of my husbands learned that. lol
No, it is always Trinity. You know we love, love, love her. Every video is better with her! 💗
Wow! You are so organized. I guess that would be key in a small space. Love what you have done. You have certainly taken good bones and made them even better. I am sure the original owners are happy because of that.
I absolutely love your home. It is so beautiful, looks comfy and cozy.
Oh I've learned it! I just am sure to tell her every time I notice! 😂 -J
@@OpenRoading lol said like a good husband. 💗
@@OpenRoading you are an onery one! That’s something I love about seeing the two of you. You love to joke with each other. Too many people are just way too serious imnsho. Life is best spent laughing.
@@ernestinebyrne9912 100000% It's all about timing too. Sometimes...best not to joke - but when you've been together for years you get better at knowing when a light moment is needed even in rough times. -J
Great video! Really enjoyed the RV tour.
Thanks so much for taking the time to watch! -J
Love how you redid your RV inside and out 👍it looks great. ❤ Cody ❤ Trinity
Thank you! -J
Thanks for the review of your house. I am also renovating my rolling home. Just a couple of suggestions for your consideration. The black stove, use lacquer paint. You can get spray cans at the hardware store. As for the cracking around the cabinet doors, the center is supposed to "float" separate from the edges. I supposed you used a latex paint. Latex is water based so thin it down to runny consistency with water (you will have to remove the doors) and let it flow down in the cracks. A couple of applications should do the trick. That way the paint will cover the wood but not thicken and crack when the doors flex when traveling down the road. Love your content, but I'm waiting on the suggestion some other content creator friends gave you to improve your content. I think it was make longer videos but that is just my guess.
Thanks for the info!
We put the advice Craig and Victoria gave us in this video:
Main ones
- create content people want to see over content you want to create
- look for growing channels and learn from what you see
- treat it as a job not a hobby. Lots of hours and consistent deadlines.
@@OpenRoading Thanks. I look forward to your videos. you are both very personable and easy to relate to. However I have now watched all your videos and go through a little withdrawal every week. Waiting on the Canada crossing video.
@@rvwithbob Haha! Well we'll try really hard to avoid an "off week." 😁 -J
@@OpenRoading ❤
Is it just the cabinet doors that are showing the old original color? It coul d be from the lacquer buildup from the original spray. I might suggest using Kilz primer to seal and block the bleeding/crack then repaint it once Kilz is completely dry. They sell both oil based and latex based Kilz.
We actually used Kilz primer and love it! What's happening is in the corner where 2 wood panels meet, the paint is separating when the humidity drops. When we are in Florida those cracks mostly disappear. What I THINK (not an expert) is going on is the wood is ever so slightly expanding and contracting and since 2 panels are meeting at that point it's separating the paint. -J
Nice, thoughtful upgrades. Thank you for the tour & explanations behind each. Even sticks & bricks have project lists.
Indeed they do. Maintenance is a fact of life! -J
19:58 they make a rattle can raptor liner... fyi!! It would be great in the stove cover!!
I feel like the texture would be super hard to clean when like flour or something is spilled on it. (Just going off what my truck bed liner is like - maybe it's not similar). -J
Like the channel. I like to binge watch so I let the videos save up. Medical issues has stalled my wife and I getting a RV. I watch a few travel channels with each of them doing it different. With $$$ always being an issue and we would love to make it a home away from home I really like the way y'all have transformed your RV. Gives me a real insight of what we can actually do to make it OURS. Stay safe. Papa Out. Oh any we would want to take our Granddaughter. And maybe her parents. HAHA
I really agree on the home away from home and I'm so sorry about the medical issues. We didn't have medical issues but we did have a bunch of unexpected bills and expenses in 2021 that prevented us from doing our Alaska trip that year so I understand that side of the frustration!
I also really agree with making the space "A home." If you are spending an extended period of time in a space (we're talking months and years as opposed to a couple weeks vacation) having a space that feels like home makes a big difference! -J
I love the tour. I love the lighter look. You are truly blessed! 💛
We are! -J
I think that a white, paintable, permanently flexible caulk may help. Even if the paint cracks, the caulk should remain in place, and the white should hide it. 😀
This means I have to be able to caulk something without being sloppy…oh boy. -J
@@OpenRoading haha Joe, I know the finger 👉 smoothing technique can be a mess! I found a tool made by Hyde called Calk-Rite. It does an amazing job without getting your hand covered in calk! Also you can use painters tape to contain the calk where you want it and keep it neat. The tape works especially well on bathtubs, but might not be necessary on on the cabinet .😀
@@MyBackyardScience I'll check out that tool! -J
This is the kind of RV I would like. One with very solid bones. I wouldn’t need to make it as pretty, or nice looking, as you guys have, but I want the bones. Something that makes the continual fixing feel worth it, cause we all know RVs need continuous fixing. 😁
I'm not an expert but I believe there were quite a few good models in the early 2000s. There are a couple brands now that seem to be taking pride in solid structure. Time will tell though! -J
it is bright in your rig. You wouldn't expect that looking from outside and if one knows how dark campers have been historically.
It was sooo dark when we bought it. It is so strange to me that it has taken almost until now for RV manufacturers to start doing lighter interiors. -J
We always take our printer and between copies, scans for us and others and finally printing, we can't be with out it.. also, gets me some beers... i print for beer... hahaha
Gotta compensate you for the paper and ink! -J
Caulk!!! CAULK CAULK CAULK!! Put a small bead on the cracking corners before painting again
Have you seen my ability with caulk? 😂😂😂 this is why I have shied away from trying that for so long because it is in such a visible location. 😳 -J
Love your RV can’t believe it is that old. It is beautiful.
The previous owner took really good care of her, we’ve probably aged her more in the past 5 years than she did in her first 15. 😂 But we also have done a lot of cosmetic work! -J
21:23 clear bins for the win!!
They are my favorite! -K
Fun video! Thx for sharing the “real” info about RV ownership!
We’re happy to show you how we do it! Learn from the stuff we do right and certainly please learn from our mistakes! -J
We fulltime in a 2004 Holiday Rambler Alumascape travel trailer and it is almost identical to yours except the bathroom setup. It IS a Solid well built RV. Must have been a great year
They just knew how to make them wayyyyyy back then. (I so hate saying 2004 2005 was wayyyyy back then. LOL) -J
Thanks for this nice overview video. It's really a beautiful van. When you have time can you show one time in a video how you slide in and out the van. That's would be very interesting for me. All the best for you all and the coming Alaska Tour❣
Hi there. I think we're losing something in translation. Do you mean the slideout in the living room and bedroom? If so...we push a button....and it slides out. 🤣
There's a bit more on the motor of the big slide out in this video: ruclips.net/video/Cuy50d7XpqI/видео.html
I can understand the 600W solar panels but 300Ah battery storage doesn't seem like very much. But I guess it's worked out for you so far. You could get a portable power station to supplement your storage and charge it with your panels.
We've been offered a few portable power stations recently but I think I'd rather upgrade our current bank than have something "floating" around the RV.
So I think the main reason we get by with 300ah is because we don't have a TV. Our primary "energy sucks" are our laptops. This year we added starlink and that has been something to contend with if I'm working later into the night.
Generally - you want your battery bank to be sized so that your solar panels can recharge it in a single day. Otherwise....you can end up falling further and further behind. That's how ours was sized. We actually are expanding our battery bank soon-ish...but it already has me trying to figure out how to add another solar panel. 😂
Sorry for the book of a response. 😂-J
That's actually the same ideas that I was thinking about too. Since your system uses individual components, it let's you be flexible when you want to expand and adapt. It looks great already.
You might try wood putty for the cabinet cracks.
That's what I thought!!! That one where we said "this is the worst one" yeah....that was my wood putty one. Maybe I did it wrong. 😬 I think my next attempt will be caulk....but I'm terrrrible with a caulk gun.... so....could be fun. -J
31 is 310 sq ft, our 28.5 rsts is 32'
Oh interesting. So....make it 3 digits!!! LOL -J
The cabinets look shabby chic!! ❤.
I wouldn’t touch them ❤
Hmmm....Not sure I can convince Kalyn of this....-J
Love all ur up grades…. U both did a great job…
Thanks so much! -J
Have you considered attaching lights to the front of your motorcycle carrier in the event that you have to travel at night?
Have considered it. Just low on the priority list of upgrades at the moment! -J
If the caulk doesn't work , possibly small wood trim nailed or glued in to trim out the cracks.
Could work! I think the problem is the wood expansion and contraction (the crack is where 2 panels meet). So the solution will probably be caulk like so many have suggested. I just am the absolute worst with a caulk gun (as seen in the video with the "Devastated" Thumbnail.) -J
Subtle decal, I like the size! I'm not a fan of the idea of a BIG emblem on the front, feel it'd be too shouty. Maybe a pair of similar sized decal on the sides somewhere.
I agree on the "Shouty." If we do it we want it to match the overall "aesthetic" of the RV. -J
Y’all did such a great job! but I especially liked all the throwback clips!! Seeing y’all pack up a house was so weird, since we’ve only known you in RV life! 😆
Thank you!! It was REALLY weird to see where we used to live. 😄-K
Loved the tour. It truly does look more like a home than an rv. Regarding the seam in cabinet doors, I’d test this on one door: a very flexible, yet strong sealant. The best I’ve found is OSI Quadmax found at Home Depot and some hardware stores. Make sure it says QuadMax. I’ve used dozens of these cartridges on construction and rv projects and it never lets me down. It’s strong yet flexible. You were wise to think light as you did all your construction projects.
Thanks for the tip! I need to get better at caulking before I do this..... it's too visible. LOL -J
Caulking is a real art. I struggle with it also. I know the rules: put on real thin, dip finger in lightly soapy water, spread evenly with one long stroke. I watch the experts. They make it seem so easy. Applying a VERY thin bead is the secret. Still, I struggle. 😂
@@mikeweis5925 Right! Experts make it look so simple and easy. Just slide it right on there. Nope. Not me. Globs, bunches. Get's beads on the nozzle. *sigh* -J
So cute, looks like it was a perfect find for you guys! Love it!
It blew us away that it checked off everything that we wanted....and had things we didn't know we needed at the time (Like a large water tank). -J