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Posted by: 250ex4now
Well the new hauler is home now... 17' American Freedom..... Theres some things that Im going to change to my likeing.... But overall its a good hauler.
13.039 OTD with full tow package. Man I wish I would of known to get mirror extensions before I started my Journey homeward bound.... I couldnt see nothing past the sides of the trailer....
Now one question for Katstoy. What do you have your brake gizmo set at? He told me to have it at 4.5 but it jerks tooo much... so I set it to 3.2 and it feels good..... If I turn it off I can feel the diffrence of the weight back there but it seems to feel good at 3.2. Just curious what you have it set at?
Posted by: 250ex4now
Katstoy,
Does your hauler have reverse lights? I just realized this weekend that my 17' footer American Freedom doesnt have any.
Also my stove doesnt light up by itself. I have to use a match.
Posted by: 250ex4now
Well then I wont worry about the stove.
As for backing up.... I dont have a problem backing this thing up anymore. Man this weekend I even paralled park it was awesome... lol
I have since yanked the stock radio and speakers and installed my own stereo system.
Removed all the phone numbers for american Freedom and ordered my own decals.
Installed a cabinet behind the toilet for towells and the wifes lotions and creams...
I bought a $300 generator brand new that works like a charm and is very quiet. Makes less noise than my friends onboard. He has a 21' attitude.
Im making my own awning since the one they offer is really small. So i have designed one that is going to be from one end to the other.
Also going to Pismo with the jeep might be something to reconsider. I just got back from there this weekend and there are plenty of hills that my truck was grunting and doing 45mph.... on the way back on one hill I was doing 40mph. This is with no water. I have a 98 ford Expedition with the 5.4 engine. Going to dumont I can go up those hills on the 15 like nothing... But these hills over here left a bad taste on my mought. Next time I go over to Pismo we are taking my brothers 2500 HD.
Other than that I love my hauler Im going to be redoing my floors with checkered floors. And some cabinets are going to get redone to accomidate my kids TV and playstaion and DirecTV. Oh yeah that reminds me I also installed my DirecTV antenna on the roof so I have Channel selection out in the dunes. Mainly for the kids.
Do you have any pics of your hauler?
Posted by: 250ex4now
I dont know where the wife picked up the gismo that I installed in the restroom. Its made out of plastic and you just extend it and then swist to tighten it up. Works great for puting things down.
I just start my gen when the kid wants to watch TV and let it run. It runs for 12 hours on 4 gallons of gas. I filled it up this weekend and my son was in and out... I even showed him how to start it. It starts first pull every time.
I made a speaker box that fits nice next to the vent on the rear... you know the little doors that are on each side... Well I just lift it up and im listening to some tunes.... gotta party at night... and during lunch. its great.
Posted by: 250ex4now
Katstoy,
What did they charge you for the dineet convertion? I wanna do that to mine. Also who did you talk to? I need to take mine in for little things here and there. Do you have a number for them?
Please email if possible,
gerry.ruiz@cnb.com
thanks
Posted by: Dragginbutt
Just a note to all concerning the comment about where to set the brake controller. The real answer is it is going to vary.. and it depends greatly on what the trailer weighs this trip, the temperature outside etc. Some times you will load up everything, while other times you might leave a lot back at the house.
The brake adjustment should be set so that you feel a slight tug when you apply your brakes. They are not meant to stop your entire rig. They are there to assist in stopping the rolling mass, nothing more.
If you set them too high, you will be replacing drums and shoes faster than you can flip that plastic out of your wallet.
The morale of the story... don't think trailer brakes will stop you in a pinch. Your tow vehicle is still the primary source of stopping power. Your tow vehicle has much larger and more powerful braking systems.... so use that to your advantage.
Something else that everyone should be looking at.. with a 7 ft wide trailer, you generally can see around them without towing mirrors. But an 8 ft wide model requires wider mirrors period. Anything less is dangerous...
Posted by: Dragginbutt
Was that a 12 volt circuit? Many people make the mistake of thinking that 12 volts will not hurt anything... that can be a fatal mistake. You were lucky, and am glad to hear that you did not have any more damage than what you did...
Posted by: madracing
might have been asked but here goes, do they have a 30ft or longer pull behind. looking for 20ft of cargo
Posted by: minnrider
Im on my 3rd rv and everyone of them the throne drops straight into the tank.i cant imagine why there needs to be an elbow in the setup.
Posted by: katstoy
Is the usabankrepo site the same for the toyhaulers, or is there just one of his toyhaulers on that site? Does he have anything smaller than a 21`? I'm in the market for a small hauler with a UVW of less than 4k# and not longer than 16 to 18`
Is the Beaumont lot right onthe I-10 next to or at Tom's RV? I go past that every day to work and see lots of toy haulers with the same type of graphics on them.
Thanks
Posted by: katstoy
I just talked to a gal at the Beaumont location, they seem to have some nice prices and weights. The only thing I dont' like is that on the two smallest units 17' and 14' don't come with a generator option, and the 14' doesn't come with a reefer. I'd have to buy a stand alone generator. But, for the prices you cant' beat it. In fact, most, if not all of the 16' from other mgfs dont' come with a generator option.
Does the one you ordered come with a generator? Did you buy yours out of the Beaumont lot? They seem like nice folks.
Posted by: katstoy
I know that a stand alone is way cheaper, but there's something to be said about staying inside and just flipping a switch. Did they have financing available? Do you have a phone number for Johnny, the number listed on the web site is a cell phone for the lady I spoke with this morning, she's out of the Beaumont lot. Did they have 17' at Riverside? Thanks
Posted by: katstoy
Just talked to Johnny, REAL NICE PRICE on a 17'. I'm going to take a look see later this week. I still don't like the idea of a separate generator, but for the price you can't go wrong. Let's just hope the quality is there.
Posted by: katstoy
I have a daughter who has the same TV issue as well. Other than the TV and an A/C (spring and early fall dune riding) what other items require a generator? Mr. Coffee in the a.m.?
Posted by: katstoy
Well, I'm picking up my 17' tomorrow!!!! For the price and features this one can't be beat. I got the 17' with the upgraded interior (the same interior as the 21') with all the same features as the 21' but 4' shorter. This was only $600 more than the "plain jane" 17'. $13.7 out the door (inlcuding brake controller and the anti sway/load distribution hitch).
I saw the 21'CB, NICE! Too bad my tow vehicle can't pull it.
Quote
Originally posted by: blown450
I'm gettin an onan which is the top of the line generator for 1800
So, where did you get this? What type and how heavy? Running as A/C and TV how much power do I need on the generator? Thanks BR>
Posted by: katstoy
That's one thing that I will have to check out is a small compartment. I doubt it, as most other 16' that I've looked at dont' come with a generator option as there is no space for a compartment. I've seen some Onan's and the Honda eu2000 gens on the net. They look small enough for me to pick up and bring in at night. I have some creative friends who love to weld; I may have them design and fabricate some sort of small, lockable cage on the tongue. That way once we're parked I can connect and lock up the generator and don't have to worry about it until we're ready to break camp.
We usually go to Stoddard Wells (now we will be going more frequently), Dumont and Buttercup/Gordon's Well. I have never been to Ocotillo Wells, but want to go. I'm finalizing the paperwork today, but won't pick up the toy until Monday or whenever it stops raining. I'm planning a "maiden voyage" to Stoddard the weekend of March 4-5, and at least one Dumont trip in March. The other planned trip is the Barstow Poker Run on april 23rd.
I'll keep you posted on the delivery process!
Posted by: katstoy
Well, I picked up my new baby last week, and drove it fully loaded on the freeway to my storage facility yesterday. Boy am I intimidated! I've never towed anything that large before! Hopefully I'll get used to it.
As far as the toyhauler itself, anyone who's seen it loves it. My cousins have an Attitude and like the openess of mine more than theirs. The bathroom is roomier too.
Blown450, make sure you force those guys at USA to go over the hauler very carefully on your predelivery inspection. Johnny seemd to want to rush through it. Seemed like once you bought it the red carpet wasn't rolled out anymore. The two gentlemen who did the installation of the brake control and hitch, and cleaned the thing, were wonderful. I think the tech's name was Louie. He was great, took his time and answered all my questions. Johnny just wanted to hurry up and be done.
I need to call them back to see where the hose for the sewer line gets stored. It does not come with any, but they're cheap enough at Walmart, but there's no outside compartment to store it in.
The maiden voyage is this Saturday up to Stoddard Wells, I'll report back next week.
Posted by: katstoy
When will it ever stop? We were all packed up and ready to go this mornign when our friends in the high desert called and said it was pouring. AAARGHHH! Oh well, I guess teh "maiden voyage" is next weekend. At least then we can go for two nights instead of just one.
blown450, how's the progess on your new toy? If this weather holds you may get to go out in yours before I ever try mine out! All I can say is that it fits LOTS OF STUFF. The 17' right now has a full size quad, a dual sport and a kids quad with plenty of room to spare. We could probably get another bike in there with some creative manuvering. Can't wait to finally use it!
Posted by: katstoy
Quote
Originally posted by: blown450
b>Oh buy the way where do you ride maybe we can meet somewhere, i frequently go to Glamis,dumont,johnson valley or ocotillo wells, well good luck with your hauler and keep me postedhr>
We're doing Stoddard Wells next weekend, about 2 miles off the Dale Evans exit; and we're planning either a Dumont or Ocotillo run for Easter weekend.
Posted by: katstoy
Well, FINALLY had the maiden voyage. All in all was a great time. My Jeep Grand Cherokee had no problem pulling the 17' with 3/4 full fresh water, two quads and one dirt bike up the Cajon Pass. We went to Stoddard Wells. Everything worked well, but . . . here's the problems we had.
One of the couches pulled away from the wall on one side. There are three bolts that hold the bracket on each side to the wall. One side came completely out. When we tried to screw it back in, there was nothing in the wall to screw it into. It seemed like it was just screwed into the wall and not any stud. The other side held fine. The other couch was also fine. Two full sized adults slept in it and it held just fine. Two kids also bounced on it and it held just fine. THe one that gave way did so by having someone just sit on it. Luckily we have some wood blocks and were able to support that bracket from underneath to make it usable this weekend.
Next, one of the tires was bad. We had already hitched up and then noticed one tire was very low. After pumping it up we heard the HISSSSSS. After putting on the spare there was a clear defect in the tire. On the sidewall there is a bubble with a small hole in it. Finally, there is a leak in the kitched sink. Not a very big one, about two tablespoons worth dripped under the sink into the cabinet below.
I'm calling them tomorrow to see how to go about getting these things fixed. I'll keep you posted on how the warranty work goes. Despite these set backs, all in all it's a pretty good rig. Squeaky on teh dirt road, but good.
Any word on yours yet?
Posted by: katstoy
So far so good. I called the location where I bought it. They told me that I would have to take it to the factory. Within 5 minutes Doug called and I'm bringing it in tomorrow. He was just as concerned as I was about the sofa.
The reefer, water heater, pump, all faucets and shower heads and the cook top worked great. I did not fire up the A/C as I don't have a generator yet. I tried to start the heater in the early morning to take off the chill. It fired up but did not blow hot air. As it was still kind of dark out I could see somethin inside glow on then off on a regular basis, as if it were trying to start up. I only had minimal battery power left (one bar) so maybe that was the reason. After we came home and the batteries charged up again, it came right on with hot air.
I bought a second battery, but they do not have a real long life. We drove about one hour to our destination, and the batteries only charged up to 3/4, never full. I had to run my Jeep at least twice over a two day period to charge them again. Is this right? All I know is that I need to hurry up and buy my generator so I wont' have that problem over Easter.
Once I get the repairs done I'll let you know how they handled it. Like I said so far I am impressed.
Posted by: katstoy
Well, am I impressed. Took the toy hauler in on Tuesday for repair, and it was ready first thing Thursday morning. The stud that the couch was anchored into came loose and the couch pulled out. It's fixed, sturdy and looks as good as new. They gave me a new tire(and rim), and since they couldn't duplicate the leak, just put in a new faucet to be on the safe side. Doug was very nice to work with and he made everythin right.
I also saved $125 too. At the dealer lot they wanted 299 for the rear ramp screen. I had asked the sales guys twice to put one in. They never did. So I just gave up on it as I didn't want to spend any more time in the PDI - installing the hitch took long enough. I figured that I'd either go back or get another after market one. I asked Doug if they could install one at the factory, that way I wouldn't have to wait. He said sure and quoted me 175 for the screen. Damn those sales monkeys!
Anyway, it worked out very well. We're most likely going to Ocotillo over Easter weekend. Theres' 2 21'corner bed rooms being finished out in the lot. They were putting on the outside graphics. All the cabinet work was done. The loft bed looked like that was next to be installed. Hopefully one of them is yours! If you either get it by next weekend or go to Ocotillo anyways, let us know and maybe we cant meet up and say HI, have a beer or two and let the kids ride together. THe more the merrier!
Posted by: katstoy
WELL, DID YOU GET IT YET? Have you done your maiden voyage yet? Everything work out ok? Our next trip won't be until 4/22 at the Barstow poker run.
Posted by: katstoy
How did last weekend go? Well I hope. I really really really wanted to go riding this weeked, but alas, other things to do. We are confirmed, however, for the Barstow Poker Run the weekend of the 23rd. The run is both Sat and Sun, but we won't be getting there until sometime Sat afternoon. At least two of us plan to do the Sun morning run; the rest are staying and playing at camp. Join us.
Right now there are two toy haulers, three adults and two kids (5 and 9). There may be four more adults and one more child (1). The staging areas are near the Slash X. I don't know where we'll be just yet.
Posted by: katstoy
blown450 - pretty cool. Yep, Doug has impressed. I did the same thing, bought the sewer hose holder at Camping World, but I didnt' want to fix it to the drain pipe for fear of dislodging it, nor could i figure out how to mount it under the frame. So I opted to mount it on the front, right where the front wall levels out. It was nice and solid there. I put some clear silicone around each moutning hole for extra protection, and it's worked great. I bought a white hose holder so it looks like it came with the rig. (Learnem, the "mounting hardware" is four screws and comes with the holder. The holder is pvc with built in flanges on each end for mounting. Each vented end cap comes off for access from either side. I bought the mid sized one and paid about $25. )
Pismo - havent' been - - yet. I'm still wary of going farther than about 2 - 3 hours away as I'm towing pretty close to my vehicle's tow rating. The new tow vehicle is still about 1 - 2 years away.
Posted by: katstoy
I'm in the San Bernardino area.
Just buy one. While I'm all for saving money, it's easier to just buy it. I made a whip antenna holder for my trailer out of PVC. I took a length of 2" diameter PVC that was about 1' shorther than the length of my trailer, glued on one end cap, and with hose clamps affixed it to the side rails of the bed. I spray painter it black to match the trailer. I have one end that screws on and I store the whip antennas in there. I don't like it when the whips are attached to the toys in transit, and they're too long to be in the Jeep. So this is a great way to store them.
From the above, I can tell you that screwing on and off the end cap of the PVC would be a pain versus the end caps on the pre fab hose holder. The pre fab one has discs with flanges that just snap and turn. The end caps are held on by a plastic tether and they're vented. Rather than trying to mess with vents, end caps with no tether and moutnign the thing, just buy the pre fab.
I'm towing with a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee V8 with the heavy duty tow package. The tow rating is 6500#. The toy hauler without gear, fluids and toys is about 3800#; so with two to three toys, 60 gal fresh water, fuel and beer, I'm probably weighing in at about 5500 to 6000. So far I've had no problem pulling it up the Cajon Pass or out to Ocotillo Wells. For stabiliity I try to keep my speed at 55 - 60 mph (I've also gotten a ticket before with my trailer doing 70, so I don't want another one), but when those 18 wheelers whiz past you it's get hairy. The suction is immense. I don't have too much sway as I use a weight distribution hitch with anti sway bar. And I have been able to keep it at 55 going up the Pass with no sign of overheating or losing my transmission. I'm thinking of either the Ford 150, Nissan Titan or GMC Yukon as the next tow vehicle - or something that will pull 9000 to 12000#.
Posted by: katstoy
Quote
Originally posted by: blown450
katstoy , you can mount that tube right above the existing drain stuff against the frame rail, mine looks really clean, like i said Doug at the plant even liked it, L
I only have the 17' so the cross braces of the frame are closer together. I also bought the medium sized hose holder that's 4' long. So there was no place to put it under the frame. It looks like it's part of the rig where I have it. It's at the right height and easy to pull in and out. Too bad Doug didn't think of this sooner! I hate dealing with that cr@p!
Posted by: katstoy
I LOVE DUMONT!!!! Whether I can get other folks to go on that weekend remains to be seen. But they can either bring their satellite recieved and watch the game in the dunes or just leave to go home by noon!
Pismo sounds great. Is it someplace that you can ride and then go swimming? Or is the beach not condusive to swimming. HOw crowded does it get in the summer? Or is it too hot there too?
Posted by: katstoy
Hey, whadday mean no women? Who cooks for you? Does the dishes? Sweeps the sand out of the toy haulers? Yells at you for pissing near the toy hauler? Picks up after you . . . . . . Need I go on?
So, the girls can set up camp far, far away from the boys. But not tso far so that when you want a hot breakfast with real coffee, it's not too far away!
Just kidding. But, you know, us chicks can keep up with the big dogs and usually out run the pups! Well at least I can.
Posted by: katstoy
Chill, I said I was just kidding! I totally agree that all guy, and all girl, getaways are totally needed. In fact some of the "girls only" trips I've gone on have descended into depths that I think have been far worse than any "boys only" weekend can ever sink! The only difference is that we smell good when we come home! LOL - just kidding remember?!
Beer and BBQ sounds good to me!
Posted by: katstoy
No offense was ever taken - my comments were just a stab at some levity.
Nah, keep it as a guys only thing. The last time I participated with the boys was at Buttercup last fall. After consuming mass quantities of wine with dinner I was the only gal who took a nite ride with the boys to comp hill. Proud to say made my first trip, of many, up comp hill that night. I also got left behind when I got bogged down on a hill on the way back to camp. The guy in front of me slowed down before he crested, I was behind, had to slow, and got stuck! Those f*ckers left me there! Well, after I dug out, backed up, and found the right way back to camp, they realized I was not back yet and sent someone out ot look for me. It's safer and less infuriating to stay with the girls sometimes! Or at least don't rely on the guys for directions.
As for the pissing thing, I have a few friends that apparently have a "nature" thing going on. They'd just as soon use a bush (no pun intended) rather than the toilet. Hey, less for me to clean up when you miss, just make sure that you find foilage that's far, far away. This "behavior' however, usually only manifests in the late evening, after lots of beer and other libations.
Posted by: katstoy
Silly question - is it too hot to ride at Dumont now? What about first weekend in May? I NEED SOME SAND!
Posted by: katstoy
If it's not too hot by the second weekend in May, anyone up for a Dumont trip? We've got prior commitments every weekend up to that time! I'd like to get one more Dumont trip in before it gets too hot. I don't think I can wait until the fall!
How does Pismo compare to Dumont as far as the dunes go? Granted, as far as scenery is concerned, riding on the beach takes it, but does Pismo have the bowls, hills, etc. of Dumont? I prefer Dumont to the Imperial Dunes, so how does Pismo compare to the two?
Posted by: katstoy
Quote
Originally posted by: blown450
really !!!! NEVER PISS OR @#$% IN YOUR OWN BACK YARD, LOL thats what you have a toilet for,
Speaking of potties, have you had any problems with yours? Mine has clogged up twice and it's a real disgusting pain to unclog it. It gets clogged just below the opening under the toilet. My hauler came with the foot flush Thetford. There's the hole in the bottom of the bowl, then another one about 12" to 16" below that (it appears to be at or slightly below floor level) The darned thing clogs about 4-5" below that. Have you had the same problem? Since you've crawled under yours, does the holding tank make any sharp angled turns?
Also, what type of chemicals are you using? I need to find something to either break up the clogs, or not have my daughter use so much toilet paper! I hope the latter isn't the issue as 9 year olds really use the tissue!
Posted by: katstoy
We've made three trips so far, and each one resulted with pooper problems! I may need to ration toilet paper! Other than that, no problems! It's holding up nicely with everything in tip top working order. I need to get a "sh*it stick" to poke out the clog. I'm tired of using the other end of a whip antenna. This last time it was so jammed that I couldn't get it unclogged. So I put two packets of the derdorizer and a whole mess of tissue digester and emptied the last of hte fresh water into the damn thing. I'll go dump in about a week and hopefully the thing is dissolved.
We just came back from the Barstow Poker run this weekend. It was a real good time, but very windy. Came close to winning with 2 pair, kings and 10's. Maybe next time.
We're trying to get in at least one more weekend trip before it gets too hot. The weekend of May 13th. Right now it may be Ocotillo with some family from Arizona. My only issue is SNAKES!! We saw one baby sidewinder on a trail at dusk and one baby rattler right in the middle of the road not 20' from one of the toy haulers in the middle of the day. I HATE SNAKES!!! There's most likely snakes at Ocotillo. Stupid question, are there snakes in the dunes? If not, then we might give Dumont or Glamis one last shot. Are you folks up for that weekend?
Posted by: katstoy
Yeah, I know it's their home, but I HATE SNAKES! Not all snakes though, just rattlers and those that can kill you. If it were just me I wouldn't mind as much, but with kids and a dog that will think "look a chew toy," I don't like the worrying. (Especially when one of the kids were with this weekend - a 14 year old boy - was antagonizing the snake. (This, of course, drew the attention of the 5 and 9 year old. Maybe I just need to limit my riding times to their hibernation season.
Does Gorman get as hot as the local areas here? In other words, how hot will it be there on Memorial Day? I have family who want to make another run, but they are expecting their third grandchild in three weeks and don't want to go anywhere. Maybe by Mem Day they'll be read to rock.
Posted by: katstoy
Yep, 9 year old daughter - aka "but I need to wrap the paper all around my hand". I'm using the RV paper. Some of it got wet when I took a shower and chunk of the roll disintegrated! I don't think it's the paper, but the quantity thereof. I think on this trip there may have been something else along with the paper - I'll spare you the details.
I'e heard lots of good things about Gorman and it sounds like it doesn't get blazing in the spring. I need to try it out someday soon. I dont' want to put the toys away for summer just yet!
Posted by: katstoy
I don't believe so, at least that wasn't on the end of my sh*t stick when I pulled it out. It was more of a warm, brown shade . . . .
I think that the design of the black tank is part to blame. Apparently the inlet to the tank makes a sharp turn before it goes into the tank. It's at that junction that things get stuck. I try to keep the entire tank well watered as the first time I dumped I didn't realize about the clog point, drained the tank and though nothing of it. Well, the next time we went out, needles to say it was an adventure and that's when I realized about the clog point. Are all black water tanks made like this - i.e. the sharp turn on the inlet?
I didnt' feel like fighting with the clog last night, although I got most of it out. So I put in extra tissue digester and filled the tank with as much water as possible. I'll go in a week or two to try again.
Posted by: katstoy
Still haven't had the energy (or the desire) to dump the tank yet . . . but I'd better because WE'RE GOING TO GLAMIS!!!! WOO HOO SAND SAND AND MORE SAND!! We're meeting friends from AZ the weekend of the 13th, so if anyone wants to join, please do.
Posted by: katstoy
Good luck on the Masters! The hard work will definitely pay off!
We haven't made Mem Day plans yet, I'm trying to convince the local family to try Gorman that weekend. However, they have grandkid #3 on the way - in about 2-3 weeks - and may not want to make the trip. I'm still workin' on em though. Have fun, and remember, the harder you work now, the more fun you are allowed to have when it's over!!! BR>
Posted by: katstoy
PISMO ALERT
Blown450 and Lernem - we're trying to gather up as many foks as we can for a weekend at Pismo this July. Either the 8th or the 15th. All are welcome. Pass it on.
Blown450 - someone's been reading our posts (PM'd me for more info) and just bought an AF based on our discussions, maybe we should call Doug for our commissions? Better yet, let's keep track of everyone and get the SoCal AF family together and take over Johnson Valley some weekend this fall!
Posted by: katstoy
Where is Coyote Lake? How far up 62? Is it legal to ride there? I saw a thread some where in the forums about an area that people were riding in that was part of the military bombing range. Hopefully not the same. Too hot for desert riding now, although at Joshua Tree elevations it may be a bit cooler. Just came back from Glamis this weekend, great trip but hot midday. I think our next ride will be Pismo in July.
Right now it's me and you, plus the "new guy". I still haven't seen another oen out there. Who knows, by the time that fall rolls around our ranks may swell. I still think that Doug owes at least you a commission!
How's the hauler holding up? Mine is still wonderful. No mechanical, problems. Even got the toilet problem handled - rationing toilet paper and make all who use it count to five as they flush. No dumping problems this weekend! Although the same bed that pulled away from the wall on the first trip did the exact same thing again. There was not much pressure placed on it, and it just pulled out. I'm going to call Doug tomorrow to make arrangements to bring it in again. Hopefully I get as good a response as I did last time. The friends I went to Glamis with this weekend had the exact same problem with their All American Sport (no relation to AF), and cousins with and Attitude have grey water plumbing issues. I guess we're not alone.
Posted by: katstoy
Hmmm . . . maybe Memorial Day weekend . . . . Ocotillo, Glamis would be too hot. GOrman is too far. Pismo most likely sold out. Thanks and "mum's" the word!
Posted by: katstoy
Quote
Originally posted by: 250ex4now
Now one question for Katstoy. What do you have your brake gizmo set at? He told me to have it at 4.5 but it jerks tooo much... so I set it to 3.2 and it feels good..... If I turn it off I can feel the diffrence of the weight back there but it seems to feel good at 3.2. Just curious what you have it set at?
Good deal and congratulations! I set my controller anywhere from 2.8 to 3.1 depending on the load. With 2 quads, and little to no water, it's at 2.8 otherwise it's way too jerky. With full water I set it to about 3. The highest I've gone is 3.2, with two quads, one dirt bike and full water. I've never gone higher than 3.2. The tech said to start it at about 2.7 and raise it a point or two at a time until I get the right feel. He also said that over time you will need to increase the numbers as the trailer brake pads wear down.
I get to take mine in again next week to fix the bed again, pulled out from the wall. They said bring it on in anytime. If this hot weather continues, no more desert riding until next fall. We are doing a Pismo trip in July. Let's all keep this thread going with any issues that arise with our AF's and so that we can do an AF run for next fall. Who knows, by then maybe more folks will have one.
Posted by: katstoy
Looks like another potential AF club member!
I have the 17' and I love it. My needs were to get a full featured toy hauler that weighed under 4000 and costs less than 20k. My 17' is perfect. I can't wait for it to cool down so we can go out again!
Start at www.usabankrepos.com that'll give you the phone numbers for the locations. I bought mine at the Riverside location. The factory is also in Riverside. That number is 951-276-1501. The owner's name is Doug. I have had two warranty repairs with no problem. It was fixed within 24 hours. I also live about 20 minutes away from the factory which is an added bonus.
Happy shopping!
Posted by: katstoy
Hey 250 - how's the trailer treating you?
The stove needs to be match lit. I just keep one of those long handled lighers in the drawer. You need one to light the hot water heater anyway so lighting the stove is no issue.
As for back up lights, I don't know. I try not to back the thing up! If I cant' pull it through then I ain't goin there! I know my flatbed trailer does not have backup lights, only red brake lights and signal lights. I really haven't checked the toy hauler. As I can't see beihind iit anyway it doesn't matter, does it?
I can't wait for it to cool down to go riding again. We tried to get to Pismo last month but it didn't work out, and this month's too busy already. I'm hoping to give her a good cleaning in mid September to get her ready for the cooler weather. I'm also contemplating bringing it back to the factory to have one of the side couches replaced with the dinette set. I like that set up much better. What mods have you made to yours?
Posted by: katstoy
WOW, can I bring mine over for some custom work? I thought that installing a paper towel holder was hot sh*t! LOL
I like the cabinet in the bathroom idea. What kind, how big, how heavy is it? How did you install it? So far we haven't done much radio/cd listening so I'm leaving the stock. Although outside speakers would be nice . . . .
Are you custom building the awning or just installing another brand? We've been toting around an e-z up which has worked well. I can move it where ever I need it. I've been eyeing one of those 15" lcd tv's at Costco to wall mount in the hauler so we don't have to keep bringing our 13' tv/dvd. Costco has a really neat 400 watt battery powered charger thingy (400 watt inverter to power tv etc. that charges up at home and puts out power. It has a 250psi compressor and can jumpt start vehicles) that costs less than $100. I may buy that so I don't have to start the genny for the kid to watch tv. Right now I have a 3000 watt generator that works pretty good, not too loud but not as quiet as I'd like. For this next season I may break down and get a Honda eu or Yamaha with remote electric start.
As for the Jeep, I can haul over Cajon fully loaded no problem, and have hauled up the grade by Whitewater on the I-10, with no problem when it's cold out, but the tranny fluid started to get hot on my last trip when it was ove 100 degrees out. I need to keep the hill climbing to cool weather. So if I go to Pismo it's gotta be in teh early am. I'm eyeing an F-250 for next summer though . . . .
I have no pics yet. Once I do the fall cleaning/redecorating I'll snap some. You have any pics?
Posted by: katstoy
HELLO AF FAMILY OF ATV'ERS
Hope you all weathered the summer well, but the cooler weather is finally here and WE'RE GOING RIDING THIS WEEKEND! We're only doing one night this upcoming weekend at Stoddard Wells (off the I-15 at the Dale Evans exit0. If ya'll are up for it wander on up and we can meet and greet and check out our respective toys.
I'm bring her back to the factory tomorrow to have them rip out one couch and install the dinette set. Friends have a 19' Attitude and I like that set up much better.
Future trips that are confirmed are Dumont 10/28 and Glamis/Buttercup 11/11. We will most likely be at Stoddard every other weekend in between.img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
Posted by: katstoy
It's DUNE TIME!! Dumont Dunes for Halloween. Slap on those paddles and join us!
FYI - the dinette set conversion is sweet! While the "center aisle" is smaller (as the dinette sticks out more than the couch) the set up is much more condusive to conversation and dining. When both beds are folded out ther is no more center aisle - just one large bed. Depending upon your family and friend situation that can be great or not. My daughter decided to hell with the upper bunk and slept downstairs with me. There was more than enough room.
I'll snap and post some photos from the Dumont trip.
Posted by: katstoy
FIRE WARNING
Be careful with the light on the ceiling above the upper bunk. This past weekend I had a fire in the toy hauler from this light. I usually put all the blankets and pillows on the upper bunk to stow them away during the day. Well, dont' do that or make sure that you keep the middle clear from the stuff. This weekend I did that and apparently the toggle switch on the light got turned on by the pillows or blankets stuffed up there. Well, when I turned on the main power switch to turn on the porch light Saturday night (a beautiful evening at Buttercup) and that apparently sent power to the upper light and turned it on. Since the bunk was in the up position, we did not see the light on. About two to three hours later, after we tried to track down this horrible, acrid smell, the smoke started pouring down from the upper bunk. Turns out the light must have been touching a blanket and the result was a melted light fixture, melted mattress topper, burned blanket and charred ceiling. The mess must have smoldered for a couple of hours. We were lucky that we weren't out on a night ride!
Needless to say that when I get it repaired I'm not going to have them reinstall the light fixture! Let's hope that State Farm works claims fast! There's a lot more riding to be done!
Posted by: learnem
you can also buy 4 in dia pvc pipe with 2 caps. one a screw on, and the other cemented, and about 2 ft of metel strip
drill pilot holes somewhere on your frame and mount it!
Posted by: learnem
15 bucks isnt bad. did it come with the mounting hardware?
do you guys ever head to pismo beach and ride the dunes there?
Posted by: learnem
I saw them on the camping monkey website. If you guys ever take your family on vacation and stay in an RV park with full hookups, you will need at least a 20" hose.
I have a place on my frame that i will mount mine for the 20' hose. I am now debating whether or not to fab m own out of pvc pipe, or just buy a premade. My attitude came with a holder for a 10 ft hose.
what tow vehicle do you have? where abouts in so cal do you live? Im in Bakersfield.
Posted by: learnem
If you guys are interested in some summer sand riding on the beach, My family, with a bunch of other people from another toy hauler forum at www.rv.net are going Aug 4-7th. I am actually leaving tomorrow to go too, but I know that would be too soon for you guys.
Also, next superbowl weekend, a decent sized group of us go to Dumont. The place is deserted that weekend. last year, we arrived Thursday, and had virgin sand until Sat afternoon. it was great.
just thought I would let you know.
Posted by: learnem
I forgot to mention......the dumont trip is a guys only deal........no women!!!
Pismo can get crowded on holiday weekends, like the 4th of july. some people say that it is difficult to ride, but they are just referring to riding on the beach. When you get back into the dunes, it is pretty nice.
The weather is nice during summer. You will actually have to use your heater at night! 60-70 during the day! You can swim in the water, or surf, but not a lot of people swim. the water temp in med to low 60's a lot of kite surfers lately, as the wind picks up alot there
hungry valley is about an hour away from me, but I typically like to stay on the sand!
Posted by: learnem
you guys make me laugh. I didnt assume, becasue you can't on these faceless exchanges, and if I upset you, that was not my intention.
as for cooking, cleaning and all that other stuff, i am pretty self sufficient. I am pretty hard on myself, so my wife doesn't have much to yell at (that is why it is a guys trip cuz i will do things (drink get rowdy, etc) that I don't normally do in everyday life. plus we already started this thing last year, and the founding members agreed to a guy only thing. HOWEVER...I MIGHT be able to persuade the he man woman haters club council to ALLOW one or two, but then that opens the door for my wife..........
We could all plan a trip on another "off" weekend at dumont.
Lets try piss mo first
(what is up with your husband pissing OUTSIDE the toy hauler????)
Posted by: learnem
dumont temps are peeking into the 90s during the day, and down tothe 40s 50s at night. it should be ok to ride
Posted by: learnem
Gorman sits at about 4-5 thousand feet, and can get into the 80's around memorial day.
as for the sh**ter problems, you can get a six pack of liquid 8 oz bottles (enough to treat a 40 gal tank) at wal-mart for like 6 bucks
it sounds as if you have a toilet paper waster!!!! is the paper you are using tank friendly? a way to test is to tear off a sheet, put in a glass of water, and shake it up. if it disentagrates, then you can use it. they also sell rv toilet paper at wal-mart.
Posted by: learnem
if you are referring to feminine hygene products.................do you keep 5-8 gal of water in your tank at all times? We were told when we did our PDI to do that due to the absorbancy of them.
Posted by: learnem
sounds like your first warranty repair!
take it back to were you bought it and describe the problem. they should be able to fix it.
good luck
Posted by: learnem
I'm in the middle of a NASTY Masters program right now, and barely have time to do the work for that. I will be done around the end of the month, then we are heading to Pismo for Memorial day....
Posted by: 212RACING
katstoy
do you know if they make an add-a-room option for the backdoor/ramp.
we race and i would like to use this as the shop to keep quad out of living
quarters while set-up. vp ult.4 has kind of a odor to it my wife and little
one hate. are you guys still pleased with your haulers. we are currently
selling our 27ft. coachmen tt so we can get a hauler, my son will start
racing 2 classes summer of next year. so 1 quad in the bed of the crew cab
won't cut it anymore.
thanks
keith
Posted by: 212RACING
thanks
i will check it out tonite, but that is what i'm looking for
thanks
keith
Posted by: 20045SP500HO
You guys are really beating around the bush ... HOW MUCH are you paying.
Posted by: 20045SP500HO
thanks!
Posted by: homdaddy
do they have a web site or a dealer number so i can check them out
Posted by: homdaddy
not a bad looking trailer do they have a front bed room style
Posted by: learnenem
Quote
Originally posted by: katstoy
I know that a stand alone is way cheaper, but there's something to be said about staying inside and just flipping a switch. Did they have financing available?
the reefer i have runs on propane and generator power. i use the propane a day or two before the trip to load the reefer and keep it cold....heck, i use the propane for the fridge/freezer the entire trip. the genny i will only use for the tv/dvd, microwave, or the a/c
they sell those toy haulers on either rv direct or discount rv....
Posted by: learnenem
Quote
Originally posted by: katstoy
That's one thing that I will have to check out is a small compartment. I doubt it, as most other 16' that I've looked at dont' come with a generator option as there is no space for a compartment. I've seen some Onan's and the Honda eu2000 gens on the net. They look small enough for me to pick up and bring in at night. I have some creative friends who love to weld; I may have them design and fabricate some sort of small, lockable cage on the tongue. That way once we're parked I can connect and lock up the generator and don't have to worry about it until we're ready to break camp.
!
go with the mobile gennys.. that way you can use them at home too... to run my tv and ac at the same time, i need all of my guardian 4000 for it...
Posted by: Dellanini
I just saw an American Freedom 33 FW and would love some details so that I can contact a dealer in California.
Any information to share?
It looked to be an awesome toyhauler and we're looking to go to a FW and something bigger . . . we've got 6 quads -> one for each of us. Yes, size is important! BR>
Richard & Lori
Posted by: blown450
Hello all, i am from southern Cali, Beaumont area, i am new to this forum and was wondering if anybody has heard of the pro's or con's of this new hauler. they are priced really cheap, i personally took a tour of the manufacturing plant in Riverside on 2-7-05 and was impressed with yhis guys shop.He has been goin at it for about 6 months he has 10-12 guys the hauler i looked at is a 21 ft. front bed queen in the rear microwave pump station,jacks,screen,10 gal hotwater,diamond plate rear deck overlay too much to keep goin, but anyway at the Beaumont lot their askin 13,895, wow i thought this was cheap for this size rig, axle wt was 3870, I would like to see if any one has heard any complaints about this rig. I almost baught an attitude 23fsak until i seen this.
Posted by: blown450
you can go to usabankrepos.com their is a picture of one. Like i said they just started about 6 -9 months ago. I've seen Attitude and Thor's facility and they are built the same way. Doug the owner said he keeps his operation small so he can sale his haulers at an affordable price and make a quality rig. The guy is really down to earth, and wants a hauler that everybody can afford. when i went their on 2-7-05 he showed me all these new graphics that he is designing,as well as the production of his first 5 th wheel hauler.He really seems to listen to what the customers wants and needs are.
Posted by: blown450
Yes they do, the hauler I am going to buy is called a 21cb ( corner bed ) it has a queen in the front left corner of the hauler . The bathroom is in the front also.It has a pull down queen in the rear and both sides of the dinette make into two full beds. it could sleep 6 easily or 8 pushin it. The 21cb is just takin off, he has 16 orders in the last month alone for this floor plan. If you look at the web site it gives you the locations where he has the haulers.
Posted by: blown450
The lot is next door to Toms RV, which sells the FunRunner, take the Beaumont ave off ramp and go north to sixth st. and turn right and go about a mile and its on the right hand side. They have about 10 0r 12 American Freedom haulers at this lot. I believe right in the front ,just as you go into their lot their is an 18 ft or 19 ft and i belive they where asking 12,200 for it. Not sur what it had as options on it. I just orderd mine on 2-10-05, I will get it in about 3-4 weeks.Keep in touch if you or anyone has any questions.
Posted by: blown450
purchased mine from the riverside lot due to the fact that its about 2 mile from where the plant is where they make them. Mark at the beaumont lot is nice but the hispanic sale guy is a jerk. I decided against a generator,microwave and tv on mine, for the simple fact that you can buy them and put it in yourself for a hell of alot cheaper than they want to charge you. You will save alot of money if you decide to do it that way.My hauler has recessed flood lamps on the awning side ( 2 ),pump station,5000 lb axles,diamond plate around the bottom all around,curtain for the tail gate,when its lowered,roof ladder,extra battery,100 gal water ( upgrade ). If you go to Riverside lot see johnny, he's a good guy.
Posted by: blown450
I'm gettin an onan which is the top of the line generator for 1800 they wanted I believe about 3300 or 3600 mark up for the same generator. as far as availability of a 17 ft I dont know, they have financing I got 7% with an above 700 fica score. The # for the Riverside lot is (951) 788-5546. This is Johnny's number
Posted by: blown450
ike i said u can get the same generator that they use for half the price, you dont have to get a stand alone unless price is is an issue, and really think about how often are you going to use a generator. I myself have 2 lil girls that like to watch a movie before bedtime, if it wasnt for that i probably would go without a generator.Good luck.
Posted by: blown450
Oh and by the way, the haulers are put together the same way that Weekend Warrior and all the other brands are put together, I took atour of his shop about 2 weeks ago, your paying for the name
Posted by: blown450
Sorry to beat around the bush, I paid 17,200 O.T.D loaded , diamond plate outside,pump station, 5000Lb axles, dual batteries, outside shower, recessed flood lights all around, queen in front and back and both couchs fold into twin beds,105 gal water,45/45 gray and black tanks. Did not get tv,gen and micro. because its cheaper to do it yourself.
Posted by: blown450
oops forgot to add its a 21 ft
Posted by: blown450
b>Harbor freight is the store where i purchased it,its a generac quietpact 40 G it fits in the compartment that comes on the 21 ft. does the 17 ft. come with a place for the generator.Glad to here that you baught one, I get mine in about 3 weeks, doug the owner is going to start production of the 21 ft haulers next week, he has 16 orders to do.Oh buy the way where do you ride maybe we can meet somewhere, i frequently go to Glamis,dumont,johnson valley or ocotillo wells, well good luck with your hauler and keep me posted
Posted by: blown450
hey thats great, Johnny is a little pushy and impatient, his customer service skills are real rusty, he's just a kid. I went buy the plant on Friday and they have'nt even started building any of the 21 ft units. Johnny was there and said the rain has slowed production down alot, because they do the finish work outside of the building, I was kinda bummed. They said 2-3 weeks if the weather holds up, we'll see, anyway keep me posted on any problems or just the good things with your hauler.
Posted by: blown450
I probably wont see my hauler for about another 2 weeks, like i said this damm rain has really slowed his production down,the weather forecast is callin for 80's and maybe 90's in Banning where I live. perfect weather. I have a spot off of Date Palm drive near Palm Springs that a group of us go its got some sand and a couple of good hills to climb.Easter I will hopefully be in ocotillo with or without my trailer, we go out on pole line road, on the otherside of the second hill and turn right, there is 3 Attitude toyhaulers and 4 ww haulers and hopefully one new American Freedom, come buy if your in the area.
Posted by: blown450
sorry to hear about the problems yu had I will have to check out the problem with the couch and the sink.wood and water dont mix well.which couch,if your inside did you have problems with.Check this out,I went buy the plant on Thursday (3-10-05) to see how my hauler was coming along,I spoke with Doug and we went inside and mine was the fourth one from being done probably sometime this week.remember I didnt order mine with a generator, we where lookin at the shop order and I opened my big F-in mouth and said " i didnt order a generator" ,it was marked on the order to put one in. My big damm mouth, I guess i am just to honest.They where insulating it when I was there and Doug guessed it would be done mid week. hopefully get to take it on its maiden voyage to Ocotillo Wells over Easter weekend.The bolts coming out of the wall on the couch sounds like they missed the stud in the wall.The leaky sink, was that because it was not tightened or what. Keep me posted on the warrenty work. It has a 1 year factory, I purchased the extra 3 year warrenty as well. How did the fridge,heater,water pump, hot water heater, ect work.BR>
1500 silverado
400 ex
450 ex
ttr 90
The dog ( sadie )
Shut up and ride it
Posted by: blown450
glad to hear that all the major appliances worked, thats what I hear gives people problems, Doug seems to be real good about takin care of the problems as well as listening to customer ideas.He should, its his product that we are buying, you dont want a bad rap in the industry, because there is so much competition out there. Let me know what happens and how they fixed it.
Posted by: blown450
Glad to hear that all went well with the repairs on your trailer. I was told that mine would be done Friday or early satuday morning buy this new sales guy named Brian. It figures he was wrong, I went buy the Riverside store and had them put on my grake controller ,then went over to talk to Doug and see what the problem was. My trailer is in the back finished but is missing a door on the outside for access to the fridge, that was minor, he said when the frames came they where missin a bracket for the mounting of the fuel station and he also wanted to install another cross member in the middle of the 110 gallon water tank that I had special ordered. Also the step was not straight when it was welded. Anyway he said the frame manufacturer was sending a guy over to fix it monday and even if the doors dont come in he'll take one off another trailer that is currently being made. He really is trying his best.So I am hoping Tuesday to pick it up.
Posted by: blown450
have not taken it out yet, I picked it up on 25th of March finally, I had some issues with the welding on the frame, they welded the step 6 inches off center and forgot to weld the mounting brackets on the frame for the other water tank.And it was missin a door for the outside access to the back of the fridge.Finally get it home and over this past weekend I went from one end to the other checkin things out. Pligged it in to 120 and everything worked great except the light in the bathroom does not work, but when i switched the fridge over to gas it would not light. the hot water heater worked, heater, ac,pump station ect. I tried several times to get it to start, even went back and read the instructions again all it would do is make a click sound on the left side of the fridge, its like the solenoid is not opening up and the igniter is not working, well I guess its part of gettin new stuff, I am going by their today to talk to Doug to see about bringing it buy on Satuday to look at it. He has to install the add-a-wall that I ordered for it anyway. If he can fix it I might go to pole line road in Ocotillo for the remainder of the day and part of sunday, we'll see. other than that its all good, I got underneath and taped the wire nuts with electrical tape so they wont vibrate loose. also look where your hot water heater is, there is some holes where the water line come into the trailer that i put some sealer around, i dont want critters coming inside. Hope to maybe meet some where and do some ridin soon.
1500 silverado
blown 450 ex
400 ex
TTR 90
21 FT FCB AMERICAN FREEDOM HAULER
" SHUT UP AND RIDE IT "
Posted by: blown450
ast weekend went great, I had Doug put on my add-a-wall and fix my pump station ( wired wrong ) and the igniter was bad on the fridge. I had it at the plant at 7:00 sharp and it was donr by 8:00, he is bad ass. There should be more people in this world like him.I left from their and went to Lake Hemet for the night, everything worked great.We dry camped it and the batteries held up great, we even ran the heater all night and we where still in the green on the monitor.I'm hoping to take a trip to Johnson valley maybe the weekend of 4-23, if all goes well.If you have not found a place for your sewer hose, i found one. I baught a sewer hose holder from camping world ( black ) and took some plumbers tape and mounted it right above the drain trape on the trailer. It really looks sharp. Doug was even impressed and is thinking of putting it on the upcoming trailers.Well hope you get to go to the poker run, thats something i have never been to, let me now how it was if you get to go.
" shut and ride it" BR>
Posted by: blown450
hats another good idea, probably cheaper to, I paid like $15 for it.
Posted by: blown450
katstoy , you can mount that tube right above the existing drain stuff against the frame rail, mine looks really clean, like i said Doug at the plant even liked it, L
learem i pull my 21 ft with a 1/2 ton silverado with a k&n ram air intake and also a perfomance chip
Posted by: blown450
hanks for the info, I live in Banning which is near Palm Springs, That sounds cool to get a bunch of us together and go rip it up, we have just a small group that goes out, so the more the better , in most cases.We frequent ocotillo wells and johnson valley, its about 11/2 hours to each place so its easy.We want to get a trip planned for Hungry valley, i have been there once and it is nice. Good campsites and the riding is great, there is no dunes though.
Posted by: blown450
ooks like " learnem" was assuming that katstoy was a guy,,,,,,uh oh. We all need a break from each other, so i totally now what you mean, us guys and girls are the same way we need some time just for the guys to @#$ off and get stupid. Act like our shoe size instead of our age, Hell I refuse to grow up, ask the wife, I do more childish #$@% it than our two girls do. Anyway who the heck wants to cook anyway, BBQ and some beer for the evenings, make the meals simple, you came to RIDE, not waste an hour fixin food, nuke it and be done with it
Posted by: blown450
really !!!! NEVER PISS OR @#$% IN YOUR OWN BACK YARD, LOL thats what you have a toilet for, unless it one of those nights that you piss the wife off and get the BOOT outside. Or you to sponged to realize that you are pissin outside your rig.
Posted by: blown450
kATSTOY, i just came back from a trip over the weekend called coyote lake, its just outside Joshua tree, It is something to see,sort of like Ocotillo wells but better, a friend of a friend turned us on to this place , as far as the clogging, I did have a little problem when I dumped at the Morongo Casino travel center. It backed up a little on me when I was flushing it out. A wad of paper was stuck in that area that you are talking about. As far as the sharp angle, yes mine does, but its not a problem, I just try and limit the amount of tissue in the crapper.I have a wife and 2 lil girls so i do understand.as far as chems I forgot the name of the one I use, its formalldyhyde free i know that and it smells like pine treesI usually double the recomended dosage , just to stay on top of the smell.
Other than the pooper probs how is your hauler holding up, I love mine although I have to take it back and have Doug put the front leveler jacks on: yes they forgot to weld them on when the frame was ordered. It has'nt been a problem so far as leveling.
Posted by: blown450
hell yea there are snakes in the dunes, I have ran over my far share of them at both Ocotillo and Glamis both. Its there enviroment that we are playing in right. As far as another trip,we are getting a group together to go to Hungry valley over Memorial day. Thanks for the invite, but we will have to try and get some of us that are on this forum to meet up somewhere, its just really hard to get all of us on the same page.
Posted by: blown450
HEY katstoys, thanks for the invite, but we are going to a place called Coyote lake, its out past the Johnson valley turn off of hwy 62. Its much better than Johnson valley. JV has to many rocks and stuff and a boring lake bed , but hey to each his own. Everyone has differant likes and dislikes.But really, this place is just outside of Joshua tree and is really similar to Ocotillo wells. It has a real nice set of dunes and trails as well as washes to fly through. as well as a dry lake bed to fly across.
Thats a good idea to get all of the AF toy haulers together on a trip.and whoever else wants to come, who else on this site has a AF hauler besides me and u?
Posted by: blown450
kATSTOY, U GO THROUGH THE TOWN OF JOSHUA TREE, ITS ABOUT 4-5 MILES PAST THE WAL-MART IN JOSHUA TREE. YOU TURN LEFT ON SUNFAIR AND THEN GO RIGHT ON BROADWAY. AFTER YOU ARE ON BROADWAY ITS PAVED FOR ABOUT 3/4 OF A MILE THEN IT TURNS INTIO APAVED ROAD. YES IT IS LEGAL TO RIDE THERE, ITS PART OF JOSHUA TREE LAKE AND CAMPGROUND. WE WHERE THERE 3 DAYS AND NEVER SEEN THE WHOLE PLACE. ITS USUALLY 10-15 DEGREES COOLER THAN IT IS IN GLAMIS OR OCOTILLO. I WILL BE GOING HERE MORE OFTEN. NOT A WHOLE LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT THIS PLACE.LETS KEEP IT YTHAT WAY OK.I SPOKE WITH A HEMET FIRFIGHTER AND HE SAID HE HAS BEEN COMING THERE FOR 12 YEARS, HE SAID EVEN ON HOLIDAYS ITS NOT EVEN CROWDED.NIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIICE. HUUUUUHO PROBLEMS WITH MY RIG , ALTHOUGH I HAD A LEAKY SINK IN THE KITCHEN, IT WAS A LOOSE NUT ON THE PVC FITTING I FIXED IT. DOUG HAS TO GET SOME FRONT LEVELER JACKS AND PUT IT ON MY RIG. YES, WHEN THE FRAME WAS BUILT,THEY FORGOT TO PUT MY FRONT LEVELERS ON, OH WELL NO BIGGY.
Posted by: blown450
img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-blush.gif" border="0">es shhhhhhhhhhhhhh , if you go let me know how u like it. It only take about an hour for me to get there. Unlike Ocotillo and Glamis 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Go figure.I think it is a really cool spot, something different, u know what i mean.Plus its got a little bit of everything. Oh and on the way back you can stop by the Morongo travel center and for $ 5 they have a dump station that is just on the north side of the gas pumps. So you are all set to go, hope to see u there.
Posted by: blown450
250 ex hey , img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-blush.gif" border="0"> welcome to the American Freedom club, I turned Katstoy on to her's, I have the 21 ft front corner bed. I enjoy the hell out of it. Had a few normal problems in the beginning. As far as the break controller ,you just have to keep fine tuning it to your liking.It took like 2 trips till mine was totally dialed in.It sounds like your close though, you don't want it to be earky jerky.Trust me there is a happy medium.Myself and Katstoy would like to get an all American Freedom trip together. I go to Ocotillo,Hungry Valley, and Johnson valley.
Posted by: blown450
there is a website carefreeofcolorado.com that sells a awning called the OUTBACK I purchased mine about 3 months ago and it is great. Really easy to install to. I use mine as extra sleeping area for who ever tags along with us. It will add about 60 - 80 sq. ft. to your hauler depending on how big your lift gate is. Another item to get is a ADD - a - WALL it also is on the same website. The outback room cost about $ 700 + shipping. The screened in room is like 350 and the top canopy is another 350.Probably one of the best things I have bought for my trailer.
21 ft American Freedom Hauler
2500 HD 4x4 allison Chevy
Blown Honda trx 450
TTR 90
Raptor 700
YZ 450
Posted by: blown450
Hey Katstoy, Have you talked to Doug at American Freedom yet, he should know about this, he will fix it with out filing a claim. I was just was there in Riverside at the factory gettin a leaky sink fixed. I use that lite sometimes without a problem, Maybe just a case of a pinched wire. Just glad nobody got hurt. Like you said what if you guys where gone on a night ride, it could have been a whole lot worse.
