SeeYa
Connection
Newsletter for our FMCA Chapter
#17 - September 2007
Jim Huber, editor
1104 Hampton Rd
Washington, IL 61571-1254
317BKP@insightbb.com
Alfa SeeYa Officers
President - John Bohn - (Phone 513-310-1735) JFBohn@roadrunner.com
Vice President - Dave Kiesig - trainmaster1@hotmail.com
Secretary - Karen Hugo - KHugo@aol.com
Treasurer - Belle Bohn - bjbohn@roadrunner.com
National Director - Tony Monson - djnsnow@aol.com
Alt Nat'l Director - Bill Harju - WaHarju@pacbell.net
Address US Mail to:
AlfaSeeYas Chapter
3590 Round Bottom Rd
Cincinnati, OH 45244-3026
Other Volunteers
Membership Coordinator - Hannah Dubuc - hmdubuc@yahoo.com
Historian - Open
Rally Coordinator - Open
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
We hope you have had a pleasurable summer travel season. Belle and I have been touring the northwest since mid June and have had a great time. In August we were wagonmasters for the FMCA Convention Pre-Rally held in Prineville, OR. The pre-rally was a lot of fun; you can read about the activities elsewhere in this newsletter. We caravanned into the FMCA Convention and were joined by two other coaches in our camping area, and many other AlfaSeeYas attended our daily happy hours as well. We conducted a formal meeting at the Convention, and you will find minutes of that meeting in the newsletter. At that meeting Gene Huebner stepped up to the plate and was elected to serve Dave Kiesig’s remaining term on the nominating committee (Dave, now our vice-president, cannot wear both hats)! Thank you Gene!
Several of us were successful in getting various repairs and services completed while at the convention, participated in line and square dancing, attended several shows, and it can be said, “A good time was had by all!”
One thing has always impressed me about this organization is the amount of fellowship and support exhibited by its members. Recently one of our members passed away suddenly. His wife/co-pilot was stranded near Nashville, a long way from home and support. Since her husband had done most of the mechanical things with their coach she was in need of help in just keeping things going so she could survive the situation, the humid heat, etc. I sent emails to members in Tennessee, and two of them were near enough to go to her aid and give assistance. Thank you, Reggie and Doris Edwards and the other couple (whose names I sadly don’t have) for being such wonderful, supportive members of the AlfaSeeYas! Our member in need wrote, “I want to Thank You so much for all your help in getting me thru all this with my husband passing. It is very true to say that Alfa people are family and I am proud to say that I am in this family. I have had so many emails and phone calls it is wonderful I do not feel alone any more.”
Fellow members, your help is needed in another way. As we approach the coming year, and upcoming rallies and conventions, I again ask for your assistance in being a wagonmaster for a pre or post rally related to one of the major FMCA events in your region. As you will read in this newsletter, a pre-rally is planned for the January at the Indio, California Western Rally. We need functions planned to coordinate with the:
· Southeast Area Rally in Brooksville, FL Feb 6-10, 2008
· International Convention in Pomona, CA Feb. 25-28, 2008
· Northwest Area Rally in Albany, OR June 4-7, 2008
· International Convention in St. Paul, MN July 14-17, 2008
If you live near or are familiar with any of these areas, we would certainly appreciate your help in planning a rally. Your Vice President, Dave Kiesig, and I will be happy to provide assistance throughout the process. Please email or call either of us.
Editor’s Note: You can contact them at:
President - John Bohn - (Phone 513-310-1735) JFBohn@roadrunner.com
Vice President - Dave Kiesig - (Phone 253-732-9127) trainmaster1@hotmail.com
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MEETING MINUTES - AlfaSeeYas Chapter of FMCA - August 15, 2007 - Redmond, Oregon
A business meeting of the AlfaSeeYas was held during the FMCA Convention at Redmond, OR with a quorum of 15 coaches present. The meeting of the AlfaSeeYas Chapter of the FMCA was called to order by President John Bohn at 4:30 P.M. John welcomed and thanked attendees and introduced new members George and Starr Saam and they each addressed the group.
John introduced the officers in attendance: John Bohn, President; Belle J. Bohn, Treasurer; and Dave Kiesig, Vice President. He announced that since the secretary was not in attendance, Belle would take the required notes of the meeting.
Tony Monson, FMCA Governing Board AlfaSeeYas National Director presented a copy of a National Director Report of the Governing Board meeting and spoke on the main points. At 118,000, FMCA is down members and every effort is being made to encourage new coach owners to sign up. Support of current members in this regard was requested. He reported that 57 actions were taken and asked if any AlfaSeeYas would be willing to be rally volunteers. There was a show of hands. Tony also reported on the INTO Gathering, at which there was a quorum and briefly mentioned the business conducted. Finally, Tony pointed out the upcoming FMCA events as listed in this newsletter.
Minutes of the November 10, 2006 AlfaSeeYas Meeting were handed out and read by attending members. A motion was made, seconded and passed to approve said minutes.
Belle presented a written Treasurer’s Report and opened the floor for discussion. Questions were raised about the expenses involved publishing the newsletter, and it was suggested that efforts be made to reduce mailing costs by posting the newsletter on line and/or e-mailing as many copies as possible. John pointed out this was being done, but many emailed newsletters get returned due to the frequency of changed addresses. A motion was made, seconded and the Treasurer’s Report was approved as presented.
Dave Kiesig announced a replacement on the AlfaSeeYas Nominating Committee was needed since, as Vice President, his position on the Committee is vacant. Gene Huebner volunteered and was duly nominated and elected to fill Dave’s remaining term.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted, Belle J. Bohn, Treasurer and Acting Secretary
PHISHING SCAMS: DON’T TAKE THE BAIT
What is” phishing?” It’s a scam where crooks pose as legitimate business people by most often using the telephone or email to make contact with you. Their purpose is to trick you into revealing private information that can put you at risk of fraud. You don’t need to be an expert to protect yourself. Follow theses tips.
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* Never follow links in an unsolicited email.
* Never respond to emails that are urgent, ask for personal information, or promise something too
good to be true.
* Never reveal information to validate or protect your accounts. Legitimate businesses will not
ask for personal information this way.
* Always treat all unsolicited emails or phone calls as a potential scam.
* Always be on guard and use your own instincts and common sense.
* Always contact your bank, credit card company, credit union, etc. using the phone numbers
they have provided.
Remember you are the best defense against fraud!
Example: Most of us take summons for jury duty seriously, but enough people skip out on their civic duty, that a new and ominous kind of scam has surfaced.
The caller claims to be a jury coordinator. If you protest that you never received a summons for jury duty, the scammer asks you for your Social Security number and date of birth so he or she can verify the information and cancel the arrest warrant. Give out any of this information and bingo; your identity has just been stolen. If in doubt ask for a phone number so you can return the call. Then check that phone number.
Identity theft victims should contact the 3 major credit reporting agencies and the Federal Trade Commission.
Equifax 1-800-525-6285
Experian 1-888-397-3742
Trans Union 1-800-680-7289
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 1-877-382-4357
Something to think about…Do you have a copy of your important documents stored in a safe place - such as the phone numbers mentioned above, your passport number, driver’s license number and credit card numbers. It is a good idea to photocopy these and keep the photocopy in a secure location.
ON THE ROAD AGAIN…
THINK SAFETY AT ATMs
Alfa owners bought their RV for traveling. Many of them use ATMs to obtain needed cash! Use these safety tips to help protect yourself and your account when using an ATM.
* Memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Do not write your PIN on your card or keep it in your wallet or purse. Do not reveal your pin to anyone!
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*Have your card ready - in hand - before you approach the machine. Choose well-lit ATMs, park close to the machine, and have another person accompany you at night.
*Be aware of suspicious activity - trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable, immediately cancel your transaction and leave.
* Don’t agree to cash or deposit checks (or envelopes) for someone else - especially someone you do not know.
* Shield the keyboard and display so others cannot see your transaction.
* Pocket your money immediately and be sure to take your receipt. Verify your transaction privately, as soon as you can, and destroy any ATM receipts after comparing them to your monthly statement.
*Keep your car doors locked and leave the engine running when using the drive-up ATM. Be sure all windows, except your own, are closed.
*Never open a locked door for anyone you don’t know. If using a machine in a facility that requires your card for access.
*Report any crimes immediately to the police, credit card company and to the ATM owner.
*Make sure you have the phone numbers of all your credit card companies stored in a location you can easily access - if your card is lost or stolen.
HEALTH INFORMATION
NEW CPR Rules: Push Hard, Push Fast In a past issue of the “SeeYa Connection” we urged members to be trained or re-trained in CPR. A recent issue of Newsweek prompted me to research the subject. Let me suggest you review the guidelines at http://www.webmd.com .
In brief the American Heart Association says the new rule of thumb for CPR is "push hard, push fast." They have updated their guidelines which can DOUBLE a person's chances of surviving sudden cardiac arrest. The key change is more chest compressions for every two rescue breaths.
Since some people are unwilling to give mouth-to mouth resuscitation some physicians are urging forceful compressions about 100 per minute. Please - check out WebMD - visit your local Heart Association - BE PREPARED! It may be your spouse, children, grandchildren or friend who will need your help.
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MEDEX As an AlfaSeeYas’ member, you are a required to be a member of FMCA. There are some important benefits provided through FMCA we sometimes forget. One is a free membership in Medex. Here are some basic facts from the FMCA website regarding Medex benefits:
Members receive this coverage with no sign-up required. Travel can be for business or pleasure at a distance of 100 or more miles from your primary residence. Coverage is provided while traveling within the United States, Canada, or Mexico, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. MEDEX must approve and coordinate all services.
MEDEX provides members with toll-free access to travel assistance services and also coordinates and pays the approved costs associated with the following:
1. Emergency medical air and ground evacuation
2. Repatriation of remains
3. Return home of unattended grandchildren and dependent children
4. RV and automobile return home
5. Transportation to join a hospitalized member (for member traveling alone — if member is hospitalized for seven days or more)
6. Transportation home after initial evacuation
Each of these services has no limit to the cost that will be paid by MEDEX with the exception of the fifth one — family member visit transportation for the member traveling alone — which has a limit of $1,000.
All of us should carry their handy card in our purse/wallet just as we carry insurance cards, Medicare cards, etc. You owe it to yourself to be familiar with their services, before you need them. For more information check your FMC magazine or go to: http://www.fmca.com/membership/benefits/full_family/medex.asp
To print your own Medex Card, go to: http://www.fmca.com/membership/pwd/forms/medexcard.pdf (you will be asked to log into the FMCA site, but directions are there if you haven’t done so before).
The 24/7 Medex Emergency number is: 800-527-0218
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STROKE!!!! I am not sure about you but I have received a number of emails listing helpful pointers for recognizing the possibility of someone having a stroke. And with our members ‘on-the-road’ I though it would be appropriate to list some of the tips here. Before listing them I reviewed several medical web sites. Here is part of the text from the email version.
“Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness (could) spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. Now doctors say a bystander can recognize as stroke by asking three simple questions.
(S) Ask the individual to smile.
(T) Ask the person to TALK --to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (for example, It is sunny out today.)
( R ) Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
NOTE: Another ‘sign’ of a stroke is this: Ask the person to ‘stick’ out their tongue. If the tongue is ‘crooked’, if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke. If he or she has trouble with any of these tasks, call 911 immediately!! And describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.
From the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke…. Symptoms of a stroke can vary depending on the type of stroke that has occurred. The general major signs of a stroke - all of which appear suddenly:
* Numbness or weakness of the face, arms or legs.
* Confusion
* Trouble speaking or understanding language.
* Trouble seeing out of both eyes.
* Difficulty walking.
* Loss of balance and coordination
* Severe headache without known cause.
HAVE SOME HEALTH RELATED QUESTIONS? Here is a list of web sites of interest.
www.cancer.gov (National Cancer Institute)
www.familydoctor.org (American Academy of Family Physicians)
www.mayoclinic.com (The Mayo Clinic)
www.4women.gov (women’s health)
www.labelsonline.org (information about specific lab tests)
www.mlanet.org/resources/userguide.html#6 (lists of reliable diabetes and heart disease websites)
www.mlanet.org/resources.medspeak (online medical dictionary)
www.WebMD.com
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WEB SITES
Did you know HTTPS offers more security? The secure hypertext transfer protocol (HTTPS) is a communications protocol designed to transfer encrypted information between computers over the World Wide Web. HTTPS is http using a Secure Socket Layer (SSL). A secure socket layer is an encryption protocol invoked on a Web server that uses HTTPS.
Most implementations of the HTTPS protocol involve online purchasing or the exchange of private information. Accessing a secure server often requires some sort of registration, login, or purchase.
The successful use of the HTTPS protocol requires a secure server to handle the request.
If you want to check for the “s” in https - go to the address bar at the top left of your screen.
I want to let you all know of another RV-related Yahoo Group that may interest you. (I announced this group here about 5 - 6 months ago, but I want new members here to know about it.)
Overnight Parking! John Bohn thought this would be of interest to our members. A group called OvernightRVParking is located at:
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/OvernightRVParking/
The purpose of the group is to provide a place for RVers to post factual reports on places they have found where RVers are allowed to park overnight on the way to a distant destination, either at no
charge or at minimal cost. This would include places such as Wal- Mart, Flying J, Cracker Barrel and similar businesses who welcome RVers, as well as some city, county and other parks that have either
free or inexpensive RV spaces. We also include a few commercial RV Parks close to major metropolitan areas where free overnighting spots are often hard to find.
The listing we're compiling also includes places where RVers might expect to be able to park overnight, but aren't permitted to, such as Wal-Marts in cities with Anti-RV Parking laws.
I formed this Group and began compiling the listing in late January of this year. As of this morning, the Yahoo Group has over 2,100 members, and our listing includes over 2,800 parking and "no parking" locations in the USA and Canada.
I hope that this new group and its purpose will be of interest to you, and that you'll want to subscribe and report on places you've been able to park overnight in your RV at low cost or for free.
You may subscribe to the OvernightRVParking Group by going to the web page shown above, or by sending a blank email to: OvernightRVParking-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Thanks and best regards, Jim O'Briant Gilroy, CA Moderator, OvernightRVParking Group
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Looking for a location? Try maps.live.com
WiFi Sites - if you are looking for a location to use WiFi go to www.jiwire.com.
SeeYa Web Site is www.alfaseeyas.com Created by Tony Monson it features information all members will find useful such as: About us, Officers, Latest Issue of the SeeYa Connection Newsletter, Links to other sites, Photo Album, Chapter Documents, Rally Information, Tricks, Tips and Maintenance and a Rally Application form. We suggest you add this site to your favorites list.
New Members!!!!! Do you have questions about your coach? Need advice? Many of our new members have received answers to their questions on a web site owned by RV Consulting designed and used exclusively by Alfa RV Owners. The site is for sharing of information regarding Alfa Leisure RV products. Owners benefit from information shared and have the ability to ask for advice when they encounter problems. If you are interested in joining this group....
- Go to www.groups.yahoo.com
- Enter AlfaSeeYa in the search box
- Enroll in the group
- Choose either daily messages or daily digest to read messages off-line.
Computer Virus? Want to check out an email re: possible virus go to www.Snopes.com then type in virus in search box.
Freightliner Chassis Yahoo Group - you can participate in the Freightliner Yahoo site, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FCOC .
Freightliner Oasis Dealers - go to: www.freightlinerchassisownersclub.org and click on Links to find the nearest Oasis Dealer - (trained to repair RV’s).
ICE Campaign - "In Case of Emergency" We all carry our mobile phones with names and numbers stored in its memory but nobody, other than ourselves, knows which of these numbers belong to our closest family or friends. If we were to be involved in an accident or were taken ill, the people attending us would have our mobile phone but wouldn't know who to call. Yes, there are many numbers stored but which one is the contact person in case of an emergency? Hence the "ICE" (In Case of Emergency) campaign.
The concept of "ICE" is catching on quickly. It is a method of contact during emergency situations. As cell phones are carried by the majority of the population, all you need to do is store the number of a contact person or persons who should be contacted during emergency under the name "ICE" ( In Case Of Emergency).
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The idea was thought up by a paramedic who found that when he went to the scenes of accidents, tere were always mobile phones with patients, but they didn't know which number to call. He therefore thought that it would be a good idea if there was a nationally recognized name for this purpose. In an emergency situation, Emergency Service personnel and hospital Staff would be able to quickly contact the right person by simply dialing the number you have stored as "ICE." For more than one contact name simply enter ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc. A great idea that will make a difference! Let's spread the concept of ICE by storing an ICE number in our Mobile phones today! (Our thanks to Tom Ingalls)
CHAPTER INFORMATION
NATIONAL DIRECTOR’S REPORT 2007 Redmond, Oregon FMCA Convention
Sharon and I drove from Western Washington to the convention site expecting to take our time and complete the trip in two days. Instead, we made very good time and pulled into Redmond around 6:00 PM on the 9th. We thought of going out to Prineville and finding the other Alfas and staying one night but figured it was too late to just show up.
We arrived at the governing board parking area a day early on Thursday Friday Aug. 9th. On Friday we drove to the Pre-Rally in Prineville, OR and enjoyed a nice visit with other Alfa owners and was persuaded to join some of them on the fabled Mystery Dinner Train. We met them at the depot, had a very enjoyable dinner and tried to help solve the mystery murder that unfolded during the ride. Lots of laughs. AlfaSeeYas can, and do, have fun.
I attended the candidates forum on Sunday and re-attended the National Director’s training seminar. Bill Harju, Alternate National Director, was with me at both events.
Monday morning at 7:30 I checked in at the Governing Board meeting and picked up the voting credentials for our chapter. Bill also attended the meeting to “learn the ropes” should he take my place in the event I cannot attend a meeting.
The meeting went as expected lasting a little longer than we thought because of some “Actions” taken at the Executive Board and Board of Directors meetings. Of the 57 “Actions” taken by the executive board and Board of Directors meetings, 11 items were “pulled” for further discussion and/or action.
There was lengthy discussion concerning dropping the convention “Pin” given each attendee at the convention, the governing board members pin and a pin given to the volunteers. After numerous motions and actions, it was voted to continue giving out the pins. Another issue was the dinner for the volunteers instead of a $10 proposed certificate. The volunteer’s dinner will continue.
The budget was passed after 40 minutes of discussion as were five Policy and Procedures changes. Most were housekeeping changes.
The last part of the meeting was the election of the New National Officers. The Governing Board elected as President: Connie Pool, as Senior VP: Nelson Stubbs, as Secretary: Joanne Durbin, and as
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Treasurer: Doug Key. These officers will serve a two year term.
The meeting adjourned at 6:20 PM.
Some interesting items: It was announced there are 508 FMCA chapters and 118,000 members. The quorum for the meeting was met by having 402 chapters represented.
During the International (INTO) Area Gathering on Wednesday the Board of Delegates, of which I am a member, acted on 13 proposals. Most on housekeeping, on INTO By-Laws, and Standing Rules. All passed.
There were 59 board of delegates present. Which made a quorum.
The Treasurer’s audit was approved for the International Area (INTO) with $47,751 in the bank. This will be used for the upcoming INTO Rally at Oshkosh, WI.
Notes of interest: there is going to be a reduction in the prizes issued to each chapter for use in chapter meetings. There is now an option for new chapters …. The traditional coffee pot or a 2 x 7.5 foot banner with the chapter name.
There is concern for those FMCA members having a Montana LLC (limited liability corporation) registration. It has something to do with having logo’s or advertising on the vehicle, including the tow vehicle. This result could be a ’ticket” by different states and or requirement of additional taxes. Keep tabs on the FMCA web site and magazines “legislative affairs” section.
Jay Blumenthal presented awards for anniversaries of chapters and also the newsletter competition winners.
Future FMCA Events:
Jan, 9-13, 2008 Western Area Rally, Indio, CA
Feb 6-10, 2008 Southeast Area Rally, Brooksville, FL
Feb 25-28, 2008 FMCA 79th Convention, Pomona, CA
May 22-26, 2008 G.L.A.S.S. Rally, Berrien Springs, MI
June 4-7, 2008 Northwest Area Rally, Albany, OR
June 5-8, 2008 Eastern Area Rally, Richmond, VA
June 12-15, 2008 INTO area Rally, Oshkosh, WI (prior to the Summer FMCA convention in MN)
July 14-17, 2008 FMCA 80th Convention, St. Paul, MN
Aug 7-10, 2008 Northeast Area Rally, Essex Junction, VT
Sep 24-29, 2008 South Central Area Rally, North Little Rock, AR
Oct 15-18, 2008 Rocky Mountain Ramble, Farmington, NM
Respectfully Yours, National Director DJ “Tony” & Sharon Monson
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Address Change We need your help! When you change your home mailing address, email address, phone numbers, etc. ---- please send a note to Khugo@aol.com informing her of the change. It will make it easier for us to communicate with you. We maintain one mailing address for a member. If you change locations (winter/summer) - or change your email address - you must send a change of address to Karen Hugo our secretary. Email notification is preferred.
Please send corrections to Khugo@aol.com or to the AlfaSeeYa Cincinnati address on page 1.
Annual Dues - Annual dues are $10 - you can determine when your dues are payable by checking the mailing label on this newsletter for the expiration date of your dues! For those who receive an email copy- of the newsletter please contact Hannah Dubuc for your expiration date. Her email address is on Page 1. Multiple years are encouraged. For renewals, send your check to:
Treasurer
AlfaSeeYas Chapter
3590 Round Bottom Rd
Cincinnati, OH 45244-3026
AlfaSeeYas Name Badges - A badge with a pin back is $6.50 (shipping costs $1.25 for two badges), and with a magnetic back at $8.50 (shipping costs 50 cents for two badges), Please include name(s), coach number and FMCA number. Make your check payable to Two Crazy Ladies, 154 Rainbow Dr #5452 Livingston, TX 77399-0141
See Ya Decal for your coach? Most of our long standing members received decals for their coach. The large decal is once again available. The large decal is placed on the front of the coach under the driver's windshield wiper. If you did not receive a decal for your coach send a note to me and I will mail one to you! Note: The decal for your toad is no longer available. Jim Huber 1104 Hampton Rd Washington, IL 61571-1254 email address is: 317BKP @insightbb.com
Articles for the See Ya Connection Members are encouraged to share experiences, tricks of the trade, maintenance tips etc with other members. Please consider writing your thoughts and sending them to the editor.
Hats, Jackets, etc. - members wishing to order jackets, hats, etc. with the AlfaSeeYa logo should refer to our web site <http://www.alfaseeyas.com>.
SeeYa Web Site - Did you know we have our own web site? Created by Tony Monson it features information all members will find useful such as: About us, Officers, Latest Issue of the SeeYa Connection Newsletter, Links to other sites, Photo Album, Chapter Documents, Rally Information, Tricks, Tips and Maintenance and a Rally Application form. We suggest you add this site to your favorite list - it is www.alfaseeyas.com
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New Members!!!!! Do you have questions about your coach? Need advice? Many of our new members have received answers to their questions on a web site owned by RV Consulting but designed and used exclusively by Alfa RV Owners. The site is for sharing of information regarding Alfa Leisure RV products. Owners benefit from information shared and have the ability to ask for advice when they encounter problems. If you are interested in joining this group....
- Go to www.groups.yahoo.com
- Enter AlfaSeeYa in the search box
- Enroll in the group
- Choose either daily messages or daily digest to read messages off-line.
Freightliner Chassis Yahoo Group - you can participate in the Freightliner Yahoo site, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FCOC .
Freightliner Oasis Dealers - go to: www.freightlinerchassisownersclub.org and click on Links to find the nearest Oasis Dealer - (trained to repair RV’s).
TIPS, TRICKS AND MAINTENANCE
ADDITIVES FOR LOW SULFUR DIESEL FUEL?????
Lately I have been reading a lot about the need to use a diesel fuel additive because of the low sulfur diesel fuel. The editor decided the best answers are the ones we get from the manufacturers.
Cummins Engines - reply from their Customer Assistance Center in Columbus, Indiana.
Hello James, you can tell the owners of the motor homes they, like all other Cummins engines owners DO NOT need to add any kind of lubricity additive to their engines on the basis that the fuel is Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel. There are many rumors circulating about the effects of sulfur being in diesel fuel or sulfur being taken out of diesel fuel. Diesel fuel without sulfur is just as good, in all respects except one, when compared with today's fuels with sulfur.
The only negative effect of taking sulfur out of fuel is the fuel becomes more expensive, somewhat
negating the inherent cost advantage of running diesel engines when compared to other fuels. It has to be removed using specialized equipment and chemical processes that add to the expense of producing the fuel.
We have seen a very few instances where the reduced aromatic content of the fuel has resulted in slight leaks from fuel systems. This is not expected to be an issue with many engines. Lubricity is the fuel quality that prevents or minimizes wear in diesel fuel injection equipment. Diesel lubricity is largely provided by trace levels of naturally occurring compounds in the fuel that form a protective Page 14
layer on metal surfaces.
In order to meet the Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) specifications, refineries now utilize processes that not only reduce the sulfur content of diesel blend components, but also remove compounds that provide lubricity. This has led to some concern that ULSD fuel might result in lubricity problems for fuel injection equipment.
Should you be concerned about the fuel lubricity for your Cummins Turbo Diesel engine? The answer is no. Customer Assistance Center Cummins, Inc. Columbus, Indiana, USA
Caterpillar Answer: Thanks you for your inquiry. Caterpillar recommends no fuel additive for your Cat Diesel engine. The only time you would need to be concerned would be if you were planning to store your RV for 3 months or more. I would then recommend the fuel tanks be topped off and a fuel stabilizer be added to control moisture and microbial growth. Best Regards Pat Simon Truck Engine Technical Communicator Altorfer Inc East Peoria, IL
Overheating Problems? Louis Bruna asked us to share this with other SeeYa owners.
We had an overheating problem on our last trip to Oregon. We were climbing a 5-6% grade of about four miles at a outside temperature of 80-85 degree range when the engine hit the hot mark on the gauge. The computer readout said it was 222 degrees and then the check engine light came on. I pulled over and stopped with the engine in idle until it cooled down. The temperature gauge climbed again with every short grade, but ran in the normal range when the road was level. My mind was working overtime trying to figure out what was wrong.
After we arrived at our stop for the day I called the Caterpillar factory and talked with one of the techs. I gave him the information on our SeeYa and related the details of the overheating. He said is was probably due to a dirty radiator, not the inside, but the outside! He said with the rear radiators there is a problem with oil vapors picked up by the fan and being blown into the radiator which acts as an adhesive for dust and dirt. He said the problem is quite common and there is a cheap fix. He said to find a car wash that would accommodate a large motor home and wash off the radiator from the rear. First soap it up to cut the grease and then to rinse it well until the water running off was clean and soap free. If an soap is left it to will act as an adhesive for dirt. Be careful to keep the high pressure wand about a foot away as not to bend the delicate radiator fins.
The next morning I spent $2.00 and did as suggested and it worked!!! We continued on with our trip climbing steeper and longer grades with the temperature staying in the low to mid normal range.
He also said this should be regular maintenance, done every six months. I know I will do it as it is a cheap, easy and a fast procedure.
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From the Info Share session held at the Redmond Pre-Rally in Prineville, OR And from the FMCA Conventions sessions in Redmond.
Get the yellow out! Exterior Plastic that yellows with age, such as the water tank vents, may be spray painted with Krylon Fusion paint to make them look the same as the exterior of the coach. Krylon Fusion paint is available from Wal-Mart and other sources. (This particular paint is designed for plastics.) Krylon’s ads say, “No sanding, no priming, no fuss”!
Batteries I used “water-miser brand” battery caps on my batteries to help reduce water evaporation based on info from an FMCA Rally session about 18 months ago (about $80 for 6 batteries). The tops of the opened caps rest higher than normal, sooooooo……… I was consistently over-filling my batteries using the filler can provided with the coach. Result: consistent big mess. After discussions with many battery people, including Interstate who makes the batteries I have, I know now that the battery cells DO NOT need to be filled until the water level reaches the plastic sleeve extending down into the cell (the one with the two slots in it). The final water level should be 1/8 to º inch below that sleeve. Just make sure the plates are never exposed. I have since installed one of those battery filler systems that fills all the batteries at once using a squeeze bulb (one system for batteries on each side of the generator) because I am tired of craning my neck trying to see down into those battery cells in the far back, etc. Interstate battery guy advised: “Trust that system, just don’t try to keep filling once there is resistance in the squeeze bulb!”
Caulking …. A Cheap Solution! Ron and Carol Davis showed me this cleaner they use on the caulking of the beltline around the coach. I tried it! Awesome! Really works. Product is called “Awesome” and can be purchased at Dollar Tree, the Dollar Store, or 99 cent stores. Caution: It contains bleach so be careful with it.
Paint the caulk? I’m reading on the Yahoo group website (http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/seeyadp/) that Krylon Fusion paint can also be used to cover/protect caulking at the beltline, thereby reducing the need for cleaning it. Getting ready to replace my caulking so I’ll try it and report in the next newsletter.
Changing your own engine air filter (Cat C-7) You can purchase replacement filters at cost ($50) directly from Freightliner at any of the Rallies or Conventions where they have their parts truck. Changing out the filter is somewhat of a job, as, at least on my 05 SeeYa, I had to remove the entire filter mount to get it out. Removing the rubber connector on the back end was also tedious. Installing the new filter is fairly easy, especially if you use some alcohol (rubbing alcohol works just fine) when putting the rear rubber connection piece back on the filter canister assembly. Tip: Use an air hose to blow away accumulated road dust on both ends of the filter canister before removing.
Is your dryer working correctly? If you notice the vent louvers for your washer/dryer are not operating during the drying cycle check the hose connection from dryer to the vent. (Thanks to David Dawson)
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Holding tanks/hot water tank cleaned and sanitized - From Terry O’Neill - Hello there all you campers!!!! I wanted to share a new concept with you. Owen and I recently had the Alfa's holding tanks/hot water tank cleaned and sanitized. Our hot water heater had a lot of sediment, and now the hot water is even hotter. But, the really great tip we got from the Water-Flow tech was, the recipe for the holding tanks and I wanted to share it with you. In a 1 gallon bottle add: 16 oz Pinesol or Lysol - 1 cup Calgon bath oil beads then fill bottle with water
The treatment for the black water tank is 8 oz to 5 gallons of water in the tank
The gray water tank gets 4 oz to 5 gallons of water in the tank
We treat the gray water whenever we treat the black water.
Tennis Balls in the dryer! Some folks have had success putting several tennis balls in the dryer to reduce wrinkles.
Alfa Owner's Club 2008 Annual National Rally
Date: April 16 – 23, 2008 NATIONAL RALLY Campground: Lake Conroe KOA in Montgomery, TX) with the Lone Stars as rally hosts. The Roadrunner pre-rally will be April 11-15th. . The rally will be held at what was formerly known as Haven's Landing - now North Conroe KOA . Members must know that there are only 200 sites available, and since it is in Texas, it is expected that a lot more coaches from the east, especially from Florida, will be attending. There were 230 coaches at the Mesa rally, so if one procrastinates, he/she may not be able to get in!
Future National Outings:
2008 Lone Stars Chapter (Texas & Louisiana)
2009 Sunchasers Chapter (Northeast U.S.)
2010 Mavericks Chapter (Mid-California)
2011 South Loafers Chapter (Southern California/Arizona)
2012 Sun Seekers Chapter (Washington/Northern Oregon) 2013 Sunrisers Chapter (South East)
2014 Road Runners Chapter (full-timers)
SEEYA PRE-RALLY REPORT - REDMOND, OR. The AlfaSeeYas Pre-Rally for the Redmond FMCA Convention was held at Sun Rocks RV Resort in Prineville from August 9 through August 11. Fourteen coaches attended, including Dave & Carole Kiesig, Tim & Rhonda Dean, Joe & Barbara Felker, Denny & Sue Gosser, Pete & Roseanne Halpin, Gene & Joyce Huebner, Bob & Glenda Mitchell (& grandson David), Don Moore & Jenny Loving, Doug & Mary Perkinson, Don & Patty Rowe, Ernie & Donita Sanchez, Dayne and Linda Sharek, John & Leisa Seigel and John & Belle Bohn. We were joined by Bernie & Kendra Kuehn and Tony & Sharon Monson for the catered welcoming dinner the first night.
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The following morning we had a 3-hour coach info sharing session where lots of good information changed hands. (There are notes regarding this elsewhere in the newsletter.) That afternoon we had a coach walk. These are always enlightening, as many people have made significant modifications to their coaches to make them more habitable.
Perhaps the highest of highlights of the rally was the Murder Mystery Dinner Train event, attended by ten of us. The train travels from Redmond to Prineville and back. During the three hours, a murder mystery is presented by the waiters and waitresses who are all dressed in character, and they maintain their characterizations when serving, etc. between “acts”! Their improvisational interactions with our group kept us laughing the whole time. Congratulations to Don Rowe for successfully solving the murder mystery.
The following day was a free day, concluded with a Pot Luck Dinner, Door Prizes and Games. Jay Blumenthal (our FMCA International Area President) and his wife Donna joined us for dinner, and Jay gave us a brief update on election and voting issues to be conducted at the FMCA Convention. Ernie and Donita Sanchez were encouraged to buy lots of lottery tickets after winning many of the door prizes! What great luck!
The next morning 12 coaches caravanned into the FMCA Convention and were met and escorted by the three Redmond police cars/trucks to facilitate getting to the fairgrounds without being stalled at intersections, etc. Quite a treat! Made the trip delightfully easy!
September 6 to 12, 2007 - Central Illinois Rally The joint rally of SeeYas and Sunchasers/Sunrisers began in Mackinaw, IL on Sept 6th with eight units participating (Terry & Dee Brand, Norm & Nancy Coady, Don Gilleran/Clara Bondie, Jim & Kris Huber, Mike & Karolyn Lippert, Dave & Judie Moore, Paul & Kathy Raleigh, and Terry & Charlotte Stephens. Activities included a tour of Caterpillar’s Distribution Center in Morton, IL, the Pekin, IL Marigold Festival, coach walk, dinner at a local restaurant, Red Hat Luncheon, potluck breakfast and the Kentuckiana Opry. On Sunday Sept 9th eight units caravanned to Chatham, Illinois just South of Springfield where we were joined by an additional SeeYa (Christian & Carolyn Eck). Activities here included tours of the Lincoln Presidential Museum, other Lincoln and Springfield attractions, tour of Frank Lloyd Wright home, dinner and breakfast (it was a cold morning) at a local restaurants, potluck breakfast and dinners.
An Alaska Rally - sort of: Some of you have considered a trip to Alaska in your Alfa. Here is a summary by Karen Hugo her husband Richards Alaska Adventure this summer. She has agreed to answer any questions you have about their adventure. Her email address is on Page 1.
We've had people ask us about our Alaska trip and would we do it again. YES - in a heartbeat! We had a fabulous time! Was some of it hard? Sure - there were long days of just riding early in the trip. It is a VERY long way across Canada to get to Alaska - at least the way we went up. There was the adjustment to 30 amps or less vs 50 amps that we are used to here in the Lower 48. The conversion of
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liters to gallons and Canadian dollars to US was also an adjustment. Though by the time we left, it was almost $ to $ for US-Canadian currency.
Roads - There are horror stories about the Alaska Highway that we heard before we left. We found most of the highways to be pretty good. There were definitely some rough patches but you just slow down and take your time. What's the hurry? The worst was part of the Cassiar Highway to Dease Lake and a really bad patch of highway in Canada from Beaver Creek to Destruction Bay in the Yukon. The rest weren't so bad - you just watch for the frost heaves, some of which are marked but a lot are not! I think the stories about the Top of The World Highway are somewhat exaggerated - yes it is gravel/dirt/mud for about 90 miles, but you know that going in and you take it slow and plan on washing your coach and toad when you get to Tok, AK.
Fuel prices - Of course they were much higher in Canada, about $4.00/gal for regular unleaded, but we paid $4.75 in Dawson City, Yukon. We only paid $2.79/gal in Fairbanks. The most we paid for diesel was $4.12/gal in British Columbia and the cheapest was $2.69/gal in Anchorage.
Campgrounds
