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Introduce Yourself!

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Lakedog

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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: April 2017
  • Model: 2100
  • ModelYear: 2017
  • Slide: Yes
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #735 on: March 15, 2015, 10:12:17 pm »
Hello Greg,
I scrolled back through your posts and don't think this subject was covered so I wanted to toss one more thing out for consideration - 4 wheel drive. Phoenix offers that option and it might be worthwhile for someone that truly wanders the back roads of our national parks and forests. We have the standard E-450 chassis and have been fine but we tow a Subaru so all our creek crossings and trips down rutted dirt roads have been in that instead of the Phoenix. I know that option would probably require a wait as there aren't that many used ones out there but it's such a thrill to have your perfect house presented to you at the end. Good luck on your search and decision making.
Holly
Hi Holly,
Thanks for your thoughts.  You are right that a 4WD PC would be a good fit for my use.  My previous RV was a 4WD Tiger built on an extended cab truck chassis but the coach area was a bit small and had a wet bath.  I decided to go ahead and buy a used PC now, figuring I could order exactly what I want if the PC is to my liking and then trade it in on the new one.  I found a 2012 PC 2350 no slide model in very good condition which I just purchased today.  The owner brought it to me this evening and briefly went over the systems/features even though it got dark on us. 

In a couple of weeks, I plan to head out for a few months as a full-timer.  My biggest concern is whether the co-pilot (my black lab, Coal) will adapt as well as I hope to full-time RV life.  He is getting old so I'm not sure how he will do -- I already see that he will need some type of ramp to get in/out due to the narrow (in depth) fold out entry step. 

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AMW

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  • 2015 2100-stretch
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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: July/2014
  • Model: 2100
  • ModelYear: 2015
  • Slide: No
  • IntColor: Toast
  • ExtColor: Sterling
  • Location: Gainesville, FL
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #736 on: March 15, 2015, 11:56:38 pm »
Congratulations on your new PC.  I also travel with an older dog, 14 years, who must have a ramp to get in and out.  Many ramps are either too long, or have a large hump where they rest on the step, actually making them a stumbling hazard.  I found a perfect size (36"x14") on Amazon.  I peeled off the black friction surface and replaced with a light colored traction tape...as the black surface was invisible to the dog at night, even with a light, and she wouldn't step onto what looked to her like a black hole.  I also replaced the black on the step, and it makes it much more visible.

Ramp: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JLRR3DU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Traction tape: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B05VZMG/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ann W.

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Carol

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    • Aging on Wheels
  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: July 2014
  • Model: 2351
  • ModelYear: 2014
  • Slide: No
  • IntColor: Greystone with Sterling Leather
  • ExtColor: Sterling simplified
  • Location: What day is it?
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #737 on: March 16, 2015, 06:24:17 am »
Congrats on your new-to-you PC Lakedog!

And, Ann, that ramp is awesome.  My doggie isn't in need of a ramp yet, but your point about the black step is excellent.  Her eyes aren't what they used to be.  Thanks!

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2 Frazzled

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    • Spirit of the Woods
  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: May 2013
  • Model: 2552
  • ModelYear: 2013
  • Slide: Yes
  • IntColor: Sunlit & Cherry
  • ExtColor: Sunlit
  • Location: On the road full time (prev. Maryland)
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #738 on: March 16, 2015, 07:54:09 am »
Congratulations Greg, and welcome to the PC Family! You should be very comfy and happy in the 2350. Don't worry about your abbreviated training. There are video walk throughs and how-to videos both here and on the main website plus this Forum Community is awesome for giving help. Also don't worry about asking what you think are "dumb" questions. These guys have heard and helped with most of them before... I know because I asked them.

We had a very elderly cat and she adapted quickly. It's amazing how fast they realize they rule their little domain. Their human is usually within sight, responds quickly to their demands, and takes them along on most of their adventures. No more sitting home alone waited for you. Add in the doggie bonus of extra walks and lots of new friends and you should have a happy dog. Happy human, happy dog... happy trails!
John, Holly, and sometimes Chloe.
Travel Blog: Spiritofthewoods.net

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Lakedog

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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: April 2017
  • Model: 2100
  • ModelYear: 2017
  • Slide: Yes
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #739 on: March 16, 2015, 09:05:38 am »
Congratulations on your new PC.  I also travel with an older dog, 14 years, who must have a ramp to get in and out.  Many ramps are either too long, or have a large hump where they rest on the step, actually making them a stumbling hazard.  I found a perfect size (36"x14") on Amazon.  I peeled off the black friction surface and replaced with a light colored traction tape...as the black surface was invisible to the dog at night, even with a light, and she wouldn't step onto what looked to her like a black hole.  I also replaced the black on the step, and it makes it much more visible.

Ramp: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JLRR3DU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Traction tape: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B05VZMG/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Thanks for the info on the ramp and traction tape.  I may need something longer since my unit has the manual step which seems much narrower (front to back) -- I think I may have to use a ramp resting on the lip of the stepwell (just above the fold out step).  If the fold out step was deeper, I believe Coal would go right up it as he can negotiate most steps without much problem.  There could be something to the dark color (as you mentioned) keeping him from making the attempt but I believe it is due to the lower step not protruding outward far enough so he can get to the stepwell.  I'm sure we will find a way to make it work, even if I have to have the electric step installed, assuming it is indeed a deeper step as it appears in your pics.

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AMW

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  • 2015 2100-stretch
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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: July/2014
  • Model: 2100
  • ModelYear: 2015
  • Slide: No
  • IntColor: Toast
  • ExtColor: Sterling
  • Location: Gainesville, FL
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #740 on: March 16, 2015, 09:53:31 am »
My electric step protrudes from the outside face of my door just under 12".  Resting a ramp on the lip of the stairwell means you would have to take it on and off each time you want to use it, and can't leave it in place while you are camped.  I just leave my ramp in place on the step from the time I park to the time I leave, as I can easily step past it, and we seem to go in and out pretty frequently.
Ann W.

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Lakedog

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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
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  • Model: 2100
  • ModelYear: 2017
  • Slide: Yes
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #741 on: March 16, 2015, 10:09:19 am »
I will measure my step today to compare with your electric step.  Coal may just need a little adjustment to the step so will see how it goes for a couple of days before deciding on a solution.  Thanks for the info.

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Lakedog

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  • OwnPC: Yes
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  • Model: 2100
  • ModelYear: 2017
  • Slide: Yes
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #742 on: March 16, 2015, 01:17:15 pm »
My electric step protrudes from the outside face of my door just under 12".  Resting a ramp on the lip of the stairwell means you would have to take it on and off each time you want to use it, and can't leave it in place while you are camped.  I just leave my ramp in place on the step from the time I park to the time I leave, as I can easily step past it, and we seem to go in and out pretty frequently.
The manual step is just under 8" so there is quite a difference.  I extended the step this morning and called him to come inside - rather than try to use the lower step, he jumped over it into the coach.  I will have to work something out as I am afraid he will get hurt doing that.  I am fairly tall so don't really need the lower step to enter easily but the short ramp to the lower step might work for him.  Thanks.

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TomHanlon

Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #743 on: March 16, 2015, 02:09:01 pm »
Do you think that safety step tape would help. I have see it in the auto stores in black and yellow strips. It just tapes to the step and makes it much easier for my dog to see our electric step.

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AMW

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  • 2015 2100-stretch
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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: July/2014
  • Model: 2100
  • ModelYear: 2015
  • Slide: No
  • IntColor: Toast
  • ExtColor: Sterling
  • Location: Gainesville, FL
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #744 on: March 16, 2015, 02:38:40 pm »
The other thing I had to do to make the PC more old dog friendly was to cover the lovely vinyl floor with the not-so-lovely foam puzzle mats.  I first tried the non-skid rugs but my old dog drags her rear feet and would trip on and rumple up the edges and still slip on the bits of floor between the rugs.  So the floor doesn't look as nice, but at least it's safe and still easy to clean.
Ann W.

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JWW

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  • Slide: No
  • Location: Mississippi
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #745 on: March 25, 2015, 02:49:22 pm »
First and foremost, Thanks to all who provide and participate regarding this forum.
My wife and I are currently RVless and spending the time to educate ourselves on the options of B+ and C Class RV's.
We have previously owned 3 Class A Coaches, with the most recent being a 43QBP Tiffin. Decided last fall to downsize so we sold the Bus, and here we are.
The P.C. has made our short list, and we look forward to visiting the factory in the future.
Our favorable floorplan at this point is the 2910D. Will appreciate responses from P.C.owners on a few questions:
1. I feel insulated (double pane) windows are worth the price.
2. I have noticed most units have a single A/C (15,000 btu). I see an option for a second unit is available. 50 amp does not scare us.
3. In reviewing the forum, I have not found much conversation regarding the quality of P.C.'s full body paint. Pictures can be deceptive regarding a good quality paint process.
Your feedback and opinions will be appreciated.
Happy Motoring
Johnny & Kathey

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Ron Dittmer

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    • My 2007 2350 Phoenix Cruiser
  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: June 2007
  • Model: 2350 Ford
  • ModelYear: 2007
  • Slide: No
  • IntColor: Cherry Green&Gray
  • ExtColor: Full Body Gray
  • Location: N/E Illinois
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #746 on: March 25, 2015, 03:12:10 pm »

1. I feel insulated (double pane) windows are worth the price.

3. In reviewing the forum, I have not found much conversation regarding the quality of P.C.'s full body paint. Pictures can be deceptive regarding a good quality paint process.
Your feedback and opinions will be appreciated.
Happy Motoring
Johnny & Kathey
We have the thermal glass and love it for sound, heat, and cold, and they are effective in all three categories so I "Do" recommend them.

We have the full body paint job and it is now 8 years old.  Keep in-mind our rig stays in a garage when not on trips so I can't say how it holds up from the sun constantly beating on it.  The quality of the paint work is excellent when considering what they are painting.  The different colors meet each other perfectly with clean lines.  You can feel a very smooth clean edge where colors meet but ever so little.  The materials painted vary so the sheen varies.  Some steel, some plastic, some fiberglass, some caulk.  They paint over every irregular surface including seam work.  I don't know how they do it, but it's all aligned from one surface to another so well like a laser beam was involved.  It won't be the finish of a new Chevy, but dang good looking.  There is a little over-spray here and there but very acceptable to me.  Keep in-mind the paint work is only outside.  If you open any door, the jamb will be plain white, including the cab area.  The same for storage compartment jambs, gas door, and other things.  Over the years as our rig has bounced many thousands of miles, the caulk in the seam work flexes ever-so-slightly that there is some fractured paint there.  It is not flaking or loose, and is not gaudy looking....at least not yet.  You'll notice it only if looking for it.

I was very happy to get the full body paint job back then and 8 years later, still feel the same about it.  It looks real sharp.  Back in 2007, I got the paint job 1/3 off the regular price which made the choice easy.

Eight years and counting and no regrets here.

I always thought that even plain white, it would be worth doing.  Paint the RV portion to match the plain white cab up front.  That will keep real easy for cleaning & waxing, and no fading of plastic and such.  White to match the cab white would look most "Production" like, and likely would hold up the best with the sun.  I would think plain white would be significantly cheaper too given the cab is left alone, and no change and details with the different colors either.
« Last Edit: March 25, 2015, 03:26:47 pm by ron.dittmer »
Ron (& Irene) Dittmer

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Bob Mahon

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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: New
  • PurchDate: 6/2011
  • Model: 2552
  • ModelYear: 2011
  • Slide: Yes
  • IntColor: Tan/Gray/Cherry
  • ExtColor: Lower Slate Gray
  • Location: PA
Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #747 on: March 25, 2015, 03:46:07 pm »
If you decide to not go with the full body paint, I very strongly suggest you NOT have the decals applied to the top-front of the fiberglass cap. It will catch a lot of sun and eventually crack and/or peel (as it did on my 2 previous units). When we bought our 2552S new in 2011, I had the factory remove them but you can see an outline of where they were. If you have it built, specify no decal in that area.
Carry on, regardless..................
"In God we trust" to save our country and bring our troops safely home.

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JWW

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Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #748 on: March 25, 2015, 07:21:26 pm »
Thank you Ron & Bob for your input. Very much appreciated.
Any feedback on the 2nd A/C option? Does one unit provide adequate cooling in the heat of summer in the high humity we have here in the southeast?
I realize this is relative to the air exchange vs. the cubic footage of the unit, as well as the performance of the insulation of the unit, but nothing beats actual experience.
Our first Class A was a 30 footer, and 1 unit was not enough.
Any other suggestions and or advise regarding  must haves or don't  haves from your experience with P.C.'s will be appreciated.
Happy Motoring
Johnny

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Pax

Re: Introduce Yourself!
« Reply #749 on: March 26, 2015, 01:16:19 am »
Johnny:

Regarding the A/C unit. ... We opted for 50 amp service in our 2552, and instead of the second A/C unit we had Kermit replace the standard 13,500 BTU unit with a Coleman Mach 15,000 BTU unit.  It performed really well last summer, including high heat and humidity in Upstate New York, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.  Of course, we ensured the rig was insulated as much as possible and were careful about not leaving doors open, etc.

  - Mike