Over the past year or so I've changed my mind many times about which type of RV would best suit my purposes, and have decided to go as small as I can possibly go while maintaining most of the creature comforts that I know I wouldn't like to do without. Along those lines, I've pretty much settled on ordering a Unity 24IB from Leisure Travel Vans in Manitoba. About the only thing I'll really miss will be a washer / dryer.
Anyway .... I just sent the following letter to AM Solar, and was wondering if any of you have info, ideas, or suggestions that might be useful in helping me find my way down this long and winding road to freedom?
Actually, it will likely be more than a year, as I hope to retire this coming December, and then plan on ordering a Unity 24IB from Leisure Travel Vans. That could take at least another 6 to 9 months to delivery.
My question is: I plan on traveling and camping off grid quite a lot, and am curious as to what my solar options will be on a platform this small. This model has an ample 60+ cubic feet of exterior storage, and I would like to go with a 400 amp hr lithium ion configuration and perhaps a 3000 watt pure sine wave inverter. Is there enough usable space on the roof of this vehicle to support a solar array that would be compatible with such a system? I'm pretty serious about doing this, and also plan on ditching the China toilet for a composting model, thereby allowing me to combine the black and gray water holding tanks. I also plan on additional propane storage capacity to supplement the optional 3.2 kw LPG generator.
Any info you can give me about the solar end of things would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
-- Edited by Mark V on Sunday 8th of March 2015 03:37:43 PM
Terry and Jo said
07:03 PM Mar 8, 2015
Just out of curiosity, what is the configuration of the tanks in that model? Are they on the same level where one could have a connecting line between the two, thus expanding your space for the gray water?
Terry
lb311 said
01:54 AM Mar 9, 2015
Hi Mark: Congrats on your upcoming retirement and fleeing those brutal Chicago winters! I left Chicago last Fall to start full-timing in my Sprinter-based Winnebago View and have been pretty satisfied with the smaller rig so far. But one thing I constantly battle (have not fully solved it yet) is staying below my rig's GVWR. I dearly love the Sprinter chassis, but you will be amazed (after actually weighing it on a truck stop CAT scale) at just how little, if any, weight capacity you have left after stuffing it with your belongings, food, water, and filling the tanks.
For that reason, I decided to go with the lighter weight thin "bendable" solar panels on the roof of my View. I was able to fit (3) 100 watt panels up there, and carry 1 extra 100 watt panel as a portable (if I ever need extra oomph such as winter days in northern latitudes).
The standard rule of thumb is 100 watts of solar per 100 amp hours of battery, but in the winter, you'll likely want that closer to 200 watts per 100 amp hours depending on usage and location, especially if you won't be parked in one spot for weeks on end and tilting your panels religiously. Due to limited roof space on our smaller rigs, you might want to think about supplementing your rooftop panels with a portable array of the thin bendable panels (similar to what Technomadia did but on a smaller scale). Also think about the power consumption side as well. Will you really need a big 3000 watt inverter? Or will running the generator for the short time to power the microwave, hair dryer, etc be sufficient? Can you replace your "power hog" appliances and tech gear with 12 volt or more energy efficient versions?
If you can get past the title (!), my blog series "A Girl's Guide to RVing" has a few posts on solar (and also some pros/cons of the various Sprinter floorplans I've had) that you might find of interest.
Happy travels! Lynne
Bill and Linda said
08:02 AM Mar 9, 2015
Mark V wrote:
My question is: I plan on traveling and camping off grid quite a lot, and am curious as to what my solar options will be on a platform this small. This model has an ample 60+ cubic feet of exterior storage, and I would like to go with a 400 amp hr lithium ion configuration and perhaps a 3000 watt pure sine wave inverter. Is there enough usable space on the roof of this vehicle to support a solar array that would be compatible with such a system? I'm pretty serious about doing this, and also plan on ditching the China toilet for a composting model, thereby allowing me to combine the black and gray water holding tanks. I also plan on additional propane storage capacity to supplement the optional 3.2 kw LPG generator.
Any info you can give me about the solar end of things would be greatly appreciated.
-- Edited by Mark V on Sunday 8th of March 2015 03:37:43 PM
Mark:
Lynne has some great comments.
I’m pretty sure you’re familiar with Jack Mayer’s extensive writings on Solar:
But to make a generalization as to your solar options – it’s all about roof space and to extent weight.In general the amount of watts you can expect from a solar panel is based on how big it is.Yes, there are somewhat more efficient panels, but in the real world these numbers are relatively small.
May I suggest you contact “Roger” at AM Solar – www.amsolar.com and discuss with him your options? AM Solar seems to be as interested in getting you what you need as they are in taking an order. That’s been my multiple experiences.They are now providing Lithium batteries and they may be an option to save space albeit expensive. Small, Honda type generator(s) are probably a must to supplement solar.Overall weight of the equipment must also be a prime consideration in the smaller vehicle.
Check out these two resources and be prepared to spend some quality time reading to give you a good background.
Mark V said
10:05 AM Mar 9, 2015
Terry and Jo wrote:
Just out of curiosity, what is the configuration of the tanks in that model? Are they on the same level where one could have a connecting line between the two, thus expanding your space for the gray water?
Terry
I'm pretty sure that they are, but I plan on using a knife valve like the Wynn's did on their new rig to balance both tanks.
Mark V said
10:10 AM Mar 9, 2015
lb311 wrote:
Hi Mark: Congrats on your upcoming retirement and fleeing those brutal Chicago winters! I left Chicago last Fall to start full-timing in my Sprinter-based Winnebago View and have been pretty satisfied with the smaller rig so far. But one thing I constantly battle (have not fully solved it yet) is staying below my rig's GVWR. I dearly love the Sprinter chassis, but you will be amazed (after actually weighing it on a truck stop CAT scale) at just how little, if any, weight capacity you have left after stuffing it with your belongings, food, water, and filling the tanks.
For that reason, I decided to go with the lighter weight thin "bendable" solar panels on the roof of my View. I was able to fit (3) 100 watt panels up there, and carry 1 extra 100 watt panel as a portable (if I ever need extra oomph such as winter days in northern latitudes).
The standard rule of thumb is 100 watts of solar per 100 amp hours of battery, but in the winter, you'll likely want that closer to 200 watts per 100 amp hours depending on usage and location, especially if you won't be parked in one spot for weeks on end and tilting your panels religiously. Due to limited roof space on our smaller rigs, you might want to think about supplementing your rooftop panels with a portable array of the thin bendable panels (similar to what Technomadia did but on a smaller scale). Also think about the power consumption side as well. Will you really need a big 3000 watt inverter? Or will running the generator for the short time to power the microwave, hair dryer, etc be sufficient? Can you replace your "power hog" appliances and tech gear with 12 volt or more energy efficient versions?
If you can get past the title (!), my blog series "A Girl's Guide to RVing" has a few posts on solar (and also some pros/cons of the various Sprinter floorplans I've had) that you might find of interest.
Happy travels! Lynne
Thank's Lynne. I plan to look into the flex panels. I know that the 3Kw inverter is a bit of overkill, but I want to be able to run the AC, and perhaps cook in the micro in hotter climes, without having to run the generator. My main thing is to have as many power options as possible.
Mark V said
10:13 AM Mar 9, 2015
May I suggest you contact “Roger” at AM Solar – www.amsolar.com and discuss with him your options? AM Solar seems to be as interested in getting you what you need as they are in taking an order. That’s been my multiple experiences. They are now providing Lithium batteries and they may be an option to save space albeit expensive. Small, Honda type generator(s) are probably a must to supplement solar. Overall weight of the equipment must also be a prime consideration in the smaller vehicle.
Check out these two resources and be prepared to spend some quality time reading to give you a good background.
Thanks:
I've already sent them an email.
Mark V said
10:20 AM Mar 9, 2015
Lynne:
How do you like the Winnebago View? I was also considering one of those, and if I can get one cheap enough, I might actually go that route, as there are no discounts to be had on Leisure Travel Vans. Another downside with Leisure is the wait time for delivery. As for the limited carrying capacity, I have plans to look into aftermarket suspension mods to see if I can wring a few hundred more pounds out of it. There's also an aftermarket rear air suspension that is licensed by Mercedes, and doesn't effect (negate) the warranty.
-- Edited by Mark V on Monday 9th of March 2015 10:27:56 AM
Mark V said
10:25 AM Mar 9, 2015
What I really hope for, is that Mercedes starts selling their 3500 cut-away chassis to RV manufacturers in the 4x4 configuration. (I think that the 4x4 is only available in the 2500 series)
Now THAT would be an awesome boondocking rig!
BiggarView said
11:14 AM Mar 9, 2015
We are exploring solar options also... Have you considered a solar array that might take the place of the awning? I've seen a few such examples online.... weight could be an issue but the area of the awning is prime solar real estate... There are creative ways to double your solar "footprint" also, panels that slide over top of panels while stowed etc. When deployed, they effectively increase the area available without taking up roof real estate. Everything adds weight, so balancing your other needs will be a challenge.
FWIW, Brian
Mark V said
11:47 AM Mar 9, 2015
biggaRView wrote:
We are exploring solar options also... Have you considered a solar array that might take the place of the awning? I've seen a few such examples online.... weight could be an issue but the area of the awning is prime solar real estate... There are creative ways to double your solar "footprint" also, panels that slide over top of panels while stowed etc. When deployed, they effectively increase the area available without taking up roof real estate. Everything adds weight, so balancing your other needs will be a challenge.
FWIW, Brian
I'm open to just about anything that will get me between 400 to 500 watts on a fixed install. An Lynne mentioned, there are also lightweight portable options available to supplement the stationary panels.
I'll also be looking at various heating options, but unfortunately, with a rig that small, a Kimberly wood stove is pretty much out of the question. Still ... there are some really well made, and inexpensive 6,000 to 8,000 BTU Catalytic Propane Heaters out there that are much more efficient than the house furnace that would normally be relied upon, and use a fraction of the fuel, converting almost 99% of it to heat, (and yes, I know that they must be properly vented). The new models don't produce carbon dioxide in any measurable amounts either. Electric mattress warmers are another way to minimize the use of propane, so you can keep warm for a couple of hundred watts, allowing you to lower the thermostat.
-- Edited by Mark V on Monday 9th of March 2015 11:50:20 AM
lb311 said
09:43 PM Mar 9, 2015
Sounds like you're doing your research Mark. After doing my first winter boondocking for a few weeks, I immediately became aware of some of the problem points of my system-- cheap AGM batteries that were discharging too quickly at night, realizing that my standard RV furnace was a propane and battery sucking hog, and some simply things like figuring out which direction to best park to avoid long shadows across the solar panels from the rooftop AC.
Boondocking is far easier now with the Lifeline 6V AGMs, a Wave catalytic heater, and a spare portable 100w solar panel to boost my rooftop array if needed. For warmer days, I also now use a 12v Fantastic Fan in conjunction with my roof fan-- really keeps air moving through the rig and I can avoid running the A/C on many days. In general, I try to plan my travels to be in the best weather at the best time-- ideally shooting for days around 80 and nights in the mid-50s. If I'm in a place that is staying too much hotter or colder than that-- time to put the wheels in motion or find hookups!
Small RVs (& big ones too) are all about compromises, and that's going to mean we won't be able to realistically have as big a solar array or lithium power bank as, say, Technomadia's 35' bus. But, that's usually o.k. as we have less space to heat and cool, fewer big TVs/Monitors to power, etc. So, if the mobility of a smaller rig is your primary goal, scale your consumption down to that smaller footprint's capabilities.
BTW, I did see a Euro 4WD Sprinter overlander in Baja this winter. Pretty cool looking Sprinter, but since it was a 4x4 2500 chassis, its overlander "cube" living space and creature comforts were thimble-sized compared to our US Sprinter RVs-- it had no propane system (used diesel heating and cooking instead), no air conditioner, no big storage compartments, etc. But it could drive across a raging river!
If this is to be your first RV, I would highly recommend trying to buy a quality used unit over a brand new one. Not only will you save tens of thousands in depreciation, but you'll usually avoid lots of "bugs" that take a year or two to shake out of any mfr's new RVs. You'll also probably discover that the floorplan you first think you'll want may not still suite your needs a year or two later. I'm on my 2nd View (and 5th RV), and finally have a rig that works well for me....for now at least!
Mark V said
12:36 PM Mar 10, 2015
Yes Lynne, this will be my first RV, and although I know that depreciation is a huge hit on a new vehicle, I think that in order to get the one that I really want I might have to bite that bullet. The upside is that this particular class and model holds it's value extremely well, and the LTV's are in great demand, and short supply. They are so backlogged at their factory, that they have already stopped taking orders for this model year, and the current wait time for a 2016, (which they won't start building until they've fulfilled the 2015 orders currently on the books) is close to a year.
I've narrowed down my main objectives to size and mobility, and the ease with which I can pull up anchor and scoot. The ability to go anywhere, and park anywhere is important to me, as is the comparative ease of handling and navigating a 24' or 25' rig, as opposed to piloting and parking a 60' long, 35,000 lb. train. I was originally attracted to large fifth wheels due to my initial desire to have space, along with all the comforts of home. But as I came to understand the work and logistics involved with moving this type of rig from place to place, I began to scale back my parameters. I know that I could buy quite the monster for what I'll be paying for a new LTV Unity, so at least it isn't the cost that is driving my decision.
After looking at virtually every size rig on the planet, in every class, and every imaginable floor plan configuration, I'm fairly confident the the Unity 24' Island Bed will perfectly suit my needs. I like the privacy of a separate bed and bath, and I like having night stands and a walk around queen size bed. The galley is big enough with plenty of storage, and they've finally gone to a three way, two door fridge that runs on LPG, 12 volt or 120 AC. The new tank-less hot water heater is a big plus too. There's also no need for an additional outside entertainment system, as the bedroom TV can be snapped off and relocated to a jack on the exterior of the unit.
I also figured out that no matter what I bought, the driving force in the engine compartment was going to be a diesel. Initially, I don't plan on pulling a toad, and will probably put my bicycle on a hitch rack for local transportation. I figure that If I do stay somewhere for any length of time, it will be cheaper to rent a car if I need one for a few days or weeks. But I'm confident that for the most part, the RV will serve quite well as my primary daily transportation. The funny thing is that the Mercedes Sprinter gets better gas mileage than any HD Dually pick-up truck used to haul a Fiver or TT. I'm also hoping that by the time I get ready to place an order, there will be a 4x4 option available.
-- Edited by Mark V on Tuesday 10th of March 2015 12:48:04 PM
Mark V said
02:38 PM Mar 10, 2015
Something else that I've been thinking about for quite a while:
The Sprinter is small, but the new ones have 5,000 lb tow hitches. Now, let's say that you wanted to stay out in the sticks for an extended period of time (maybe a month or so). My idea would be to rent a small U-Haul cargo trailer, and load it up with extra food, water, fuel, LPG and anything else that you might run out of were you to rely on your RV's basic storage capacity. When you're done, just return the trailer, or you could even drop it off in the next city that has a U-Haul franchise.
Terry and Jo said
07:36 PM Mar 10, 2015
Mark V wrote:
Something else that I've been thinking about for quite a while:
The Sprinter is small, but the new ones have 5,000 lb tow hitches. Now, let's say that you wanted to stay out in the sticks for an extended period of time (maybe a month or so). My idea would be to rent a small U-Haul cargo trailer, and load it up with extra food, water, fuel, LPG and anything else that you might run out of were you to rely on your RV's basic storage capacity. When you're done, just return the trailer, or you could even drop it off in the next city that has a U-Haul franchise.
Mark,
With the thought of the U-Haul trailer in mind, check with them to see what their rental costs would be. We drove by one of their lots today and my youngest son noted that for what one used to be able to rent for $19.95 per day had downsized from a box truck to a 3/4-ton cargo van. Keeping a trailer for a couple of weeks to a month might be cost prohibitive.
Terry
Mark V said
11:02 AM Mar 11, 2015
Terry:
I looked into it a bit, and the one I was interested in (4'x8' 145 cubic ft) is 14.95 a day, which is still too expensive. But there are other options.
One could post to Craigslist, seeking to rent a personal trailer for a few weeks. I'm sure that there are people who own small cargo trailers all over the country, who don't use them all too frequently, and would like to recoup a small portion of their cost. In fact, I have a friend who has a really short flatbed (nothing that I would personally use) that has been just sitting unused on his property for over 10 years now. He might never use it again, but if I know him, he'll never sell it either.
But regardless; these days there are ways to procure just about anything you want, anywhere you need it, anytime you wish, and under a wide variety of terms and conditions, so I'll keep this option open.
BiggarView said
11:26 AM Mar 11, 2015
Mark, Uhaul and others regularly sell off their equipment... you might be able to get a decent deal on a used trailer. Another low cost source would be equipment auction houses. I have seen some really good suitable trailers going for a song. My neighor just bought a used ambulance, that he was going to gut for his business, $5,000 dollars for a 8 year old vehicle in great shape. He said there was a 4x8 tandem trailer (ex Uhaul) there that he almost bought for 500 dollars. He said it was virtually spotless. At your quoted 15/day that trailer would pay for itself in a little over a month. Just sayin' the deals are out there if that is a route you are thinking of taking.
FWIW, Brian
Mark V said
12:10 PM Mar 11, 2015
biggaRView wrote:
Mark, Uhaul and others regularly sell off their equipment... you might be able to get a decent deal on a used trailer. Another low cost source would be equipment auction houses. I have seen some really good suitable trailers going for a song. My neighor just bought a used ambulance, that he was going to gut for his business, $5,000 dollars for a 8 year old vehicle in great shape. He said there was a 4x8 tandem trailer (ex Uhaul) there that he almost bought for 500 dollars. He said it was virtually spotless. At your quoted 15/day that trailer would pay for itself in a little over a month. Just sayin' the deals are out there if that is a route you are thinking of taking.
FWIW, Brian
The biggest thing is that I wouldn't want to drag it all over the country with me, when I might only use it two or three times a year. I plan on getting and staying pretty lean, which is another reason that I'm gravitating towards this particular platform.
There's a bumper sticker out there that says: "Less Stuff = More Freedom", and I tend to agree.
BiggarView said
03:25 PM Mar 11, 2015
From the sound it, then it's probably not a solution for your needs, unless you had a place to park it when you're not using it. Still, a large enough trailer (2200lbs) say one big enough (7x14) to carry a Smart car (1600lbs), spare water (30gal = 250lbs),battery bank(500lbs), tools and equipment(200lbs), and the roof covered with over 90 sq ft. of solar panels(250lbs) might still be towable by modest rig. Just a wild "guessimate". Smart car or the trailer might not be rugged enough for a serious boondocking adventure though. Hmmm, hate going off topic but... this is giving me an idea for my trains if we go the MH route for our rig..... ok back to the subject at hand, anyway good luck with your research, as we have time before we go, I'd be interested in whatever setup you come up with. I'll bet Chip (Sushidog) is following your plan with interest also.
Brian
I agree with the less stuff = more freedom... some things are hard to let go of. We'll see if 3 or 4 years will change that view.
-- Edited by biggaRView on Wednesday 11th of March 2015 03:37:08 PM
Mark V said
04:22 PM Mar 11, 2015
From the sound it, then it's probably not a solution for your needs, unless you had a place to park it when you're not using it. Still, a large enough trailer (2200lbs) say one big enough (7x14) to carry a Smart car (1600lbs), spare water (30gal = 250lbs),battery bank(500lbs), tools and equipment(200lbs), and the roof covered with over 90 sq ft. of solar panels(250lbs) might still be towable by modest rig.
Not looking for anything that big. I don't plan on towing a vehicle. What I'd be looking for is the smallest thing available, as I seriously doubt that I'd be carrying more than 1,000 lbs of additional supplies. What would be really nice is if you could actually buy a U-Haul cargo trailer, then give it to a dealer for him to lease out, providing that you would be allowed to pick up a similar unit at any of their franchise locations, and drop it off again anywhere you please for a nominal paperwork processing fee.
Over the past year or so I've changed my mind many times about which type of RV would best suit my purposes, and have decided to go as small as I can possibly go while maintaining most of the creature comforts that I know I wouldn't like to do without. Along those lines, I've pretty much settled on ordering a Unity 24IB from Leisure Travel Vans in Manitoba. About the only thing I'll really miss will be a washer / dryer.
Anyway .... I just sent the following letter to AM Solar, and was wondering if any of you have info, ideas, or suggestions that might be useful in helping me find my way down this long and winding road to freedom?
___________________________________________________
Planning For Next Year:
Actually, it will likely be more than a year, as I hope to retire this coming December, and then plan on ordering a Unity 24IB from Leisure Travel Vans. That could take at least another 6 to 9 months to delivery.
My question is: I plan on traveling and camping off grid quite a lot, and am curious as to what my solar options will be on a platform this small. This model has an ample 60+ cubic feet of exterior storage, and I would like to go with a 400 amp hr lithium ion configuration and perhaps a 3000 watt pure sine wave inverter. Is there enough usable space on the roof of this vehicle to support a solar array that would be compatible with such a system? I'm pretty serious about doing this, and also plan on ditching the China toilet for a composting model, thereby allowing me to combine the black and gray water holding tanks. I also plan on additional propane storage capacity to supplement the optional 3.2 kw LPG generator.
Any info you can give me about the solar end of things would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
-- Edited by Mark V on Sunday 8th of March 2015 03:37:43 PM
Just out of curiosity, what is the configuration of the tanks in that model? Are they on the same level where one could have a connecting line between the two, thus expanding your space for the gray water?
Terry
Hi Mark:
Congrats on your upcoming retirement and fleeing those brutal Chicago winters! I left Chicago last Fall to start full-timing in my Sprinter-based Winnebago View and have been pretty satisfied with the smaller rig so far. But one thing I constantly battle (have not fully solved it yet) is staying below my rig's GVWR. I dearly love the Sprinter chassis, but you will be amazed (after actually weighing it on a truck stop CAT scale) at just how little, if any, weight capacity you have left after stuffing it with your belongings, food, water, and filling the tanks.
For that reason, I decided to go with the lighter weight thin "bendable" solar panels on the roof of my View. I was able to fit (3) 100 watt panels up there, and carry 1 extra 100 watt panel as a portable (if I ever need extra oomph such as winter days in northern latitudes).
The standard rule of thumb is 100 watts of solar per 100 amp hours of battery, but in the winter, you'll likely want that closer to 200 watts per 100 amp hours depending on usage and location, especially if you won't be parked in one spot for weeks on end and tilting your panels religiously. Due to limited roof space on our smaller rigs, you might want to think about supplementing your rooftop panels with a portable array of the thin bendable panels (similar to what Technomadia did but on a smaller scale). Also think about the power consumption side as well. Will you really need a big 3000 watt inverter? Or will running the generator for the short time to power the microwave, hair dryer, etc be sufficient? Can you replace your "power hog" appliances and tech gear with 12 volt or more energy efficient versions?
If you can get past the title (!), my blog series "A Girl's Guide to RVing" has a few posts on solar (and also some pros/cons of the various Sprinter floorplans I've had) that you might find of interest.
Happy travels!
Lynne
Mark:
Lynne has some great comments.
I’m pretty sure you’re familiar with Jack Mayer’s extensive writings on Solar:
http://www.jackdanmayer.com/rv_electrical_and_solar.htm
But to make a generalization as to your solar options – it’s all about roof space and to extent weight. In general the amount of watts you can expect from a solar panel is based on how big it is. Yes, there are somewhat more efficient panels, but in the real world these numbers are relatively small.
May I suggest you contact “Roger” at AM Solar – www.amsolar.com and discuss with him your options? AM Solar seems to be as interested in getting you what you need as they are in taking an order. That’s been my multiple experiences. They are now providing Lithium batteries and they may be an option to save space albeit expensive. Small, Honda type generator(s) are probably a must to supplement solar. Overall weight of the equipment must also be a prime consideration in the smaller vehicle.
Check out these two resources and be prepared to spend some quality time reading to give you a good background.
I'm pretty sure that they are, but I plan on using a knife valve like the Wynn's did on their new rig to balance both tanks.
Thank's Lynne. I plan to look into the flex panels. I know that the 3Kw inverter is a bit of overkill, but I want to be able to run the AC, and perhaps cook in the micro in hotter climes, without having to run the generator. My main thing is to have as many power options as possible.
Thanks:
I've already sent them an email.
Lynne:
How do you like the Winnebago View? I was also considering one of those, and if I can get one cheap enough, I might actually go that route, as there are no discounts to be had on Leisure Travel Vans. Another downside with Leisure is the wait time for delivery. As for the limited carrying capacity, I have plans to look into aftermarket suspension mods to see if I can wring a few hundred more pounds out of it. There's also an aftermarket rear air suspension that is licensed by Mercedes, and doesn't effect (negate) the warranty.
-- Edited by Mark V on Monday 9th of March 2015 10:27:56 AM
What I really hope for, is that Mercedes starts selling their 3500 cut-away chassis to RV manufacturers in the 4x4 configuration. (I think that the 4x4 is only available in the 2500 series)
Now THAT would be an awesome boondocking rig!
We are exploring solar options also... Have you considered a solar array that might take the place of the awning? I've seen a few such examples online.... weight could be an issue but the area of the awning is prime solar real estate... There are creative ways to double your solar "footprint" also, panels that slide over top of panels while stowed etc. When deployed, they effectively increase the area available without taking up roof real estate. Everything adds weight, so balancing your other needs will be a challenge.
FWIW, Brian
I'm open to just about anything that will get me between 400 to 500 watts on a fixed install. An Lynne mentioned, there are also lightweight portable options available to supplement the stationary panels.
I'll also be looking at various heating options, but unfortunately, with a rig that small, a Kimberly wood stove is pretty much out of the question. Still ... there are some really well made, and inexpensive 6,000 to 8,000 BTU Catalytic Propane Heaters out there that are much more efficient than the house furnace that would normally be relied upon, and use a fraction of the fuel, converting almost 99% of it to heat, (and yes, I know that they must be properly vented). The new models don't produce carbon dioxide in any measurable amounts either. Electric mattress warmers are another way to minimize the use of propane, so you can keep warm for a couple of hundred watts, allowing you to lower the thermostat.
-- Edited by Mark V on Monday 9th of March 2015 11:50:20 AM
Boondocking is far easier now with the Lifeline 6V AGMs, a Wave catalytic heater, and a spare portable 100w solar panel to boost my rooftop array if needed. For warmer days, I also now use a 12v Fantastic Fan in conjunction with my roof fan-- really keeps air moving through the rig and I can avoid running the A/C on many days. In general, I try to plan my travels to be in the best weather at the best time-- ideally shooting for days around 80 and nights in the mid-50s. If I'm in a place that is staying too much hotter or colder than that-- time to put the wheels in motion or find hookups!
Small RVs (& big ones too) are all about compromises, and that's going to mean we won't be able to realistically have as big a solar array or lithium power bank as, say, Technomadia's 35' bus. But, that's usually o.k. as we have less space to heat and cool, fewer big TVs/Monitors to power, etc. So, if the mobility of a smaller rig is your primary goal, scale your consumption down to that smaller footprint's capabilities.
BTW, I did see a Euro 4WD Sprinter overlander in Baja this winter. Pretty cool looking Sprinter, but since it was a 4x4 2500 chassis, its overlander "cube" living space and creature comforts were thimble-sized compared to our US Sprinter RVs-- it had no propane system (used diesel heating and cooking instead), no air conditioner, no big storage compartments, etc. But it could drive across a raging river!
If this is to be your first RV, I would highly recommend trying to buy a quality used unit over a brand new one. Not only will you save tens of thousands in depreciation, but you'll usually avoid lots of "bugs" that take a year or two to shake out of any mfr's new RVs. You'll also probably discover that the floorplan you first think you'll want may not still suite your needs a year or two later. I'm on my 2nd View (and 5th RV), and finally have a rig that works well for me....for now at least!
Yes Lynne, this will be my first RV, and although I know that depreciation is a huge hit on a new vehicle, I think that in order to get the one that I really want I might have to bite that bullet. The upside is that this particular class and model holds it's value extremely well, and the LTV's are in great demand, and short supply. They are so backlogged at their factory, that they have already stopped taking orders for this model year, and the current wait time for a 2016, (which they won't start building until they've fulfilled the 2015 orders currently on the books) is close to a year.
I've narrowed down my main objectives to size and mobility, and the ease with which I can pull up anchor and scoot. The ability to go anywhere, and park anywhere is important to me, as is the comparative ease of handling and navigating a 24' or 25' rig, as opposed to piloting and parking a 60' long, 35,000 lb. train. I was originally attracted to large fifth wheels due to my initial desire to have space, along with all the comforts of home. But as I came to understand the work and logistics involved with moving this type of rig from place to place, I began to scale back my parameters. I know that I could buy quite the monster for what I'll be paying for a new LTV Unity, so at least it isn't the cost that is driving my decision.
After looking at virtually every size rig on the planet, in every class, and every imaginable floor plan configuration, I'm fairly confident the the Unity 24' Island Bed will perfectly suit my needs. I like the privacy of a separate bed and bath, and I like having night stands and a walk around queen size bed. The galley is big enough with plenty of storage, and they've finally gone to a three way, two door fridge that runs on LPG, 12 volt or 120 AC. The new tank-less hot water heater is a big plus too. There's also no need for an additional outside entertainment system, as the bedroom TV can be snapped off and relocated to a jack on the exterior of the unit.
I also figured out that no matter what I bought, the driving force in the engine compartment was going to be a diesel. Initially, I don't plan on pulling a toad, and will probably put my bicycle on a hitch rack for local transportation. I figure that If I do stay somewhere for any length of time, it will be cheaper to rent a car if I need one for a few days or weeks. But I'm confident that for the most part, the RV will serve quite well as my primary daily transportation. The funny thing is that the Mercedes Sprinter gets better gas mileage than any HD Dually pick-up truck used to haul a Fiver or TT. I'm also hoping that by the time I get ready to place an order, there will be a 4x4 option available.
-- Edited by Mark V on Tuesday 10th of March 2015 12:48:04 PM
Something else that I've been thinking about for quite a while:
The Sprinter is small, but the new ones have 5,000 lb tow hitches. Now, let's say that you wanted to stay out in the sticks for an extended period of time (maybe a month or so). My idea would be to rent a small U-Haul cargo trailer, and load it up with extra food, water, fuel, LPG and anything else that you might run out of were you to rely on your RV's basic storage capacity. When you're done, just return the trailer, or you could even drop it off in the next city that has a U-Haul franchise.
Mark,
With the thought of the U-Haul trailer in mind, check with them to see what their rental costs would be. We drove by one of their lots today and my youngest son noted that for what one used to be able to rent for $19.95 per day had downsized from a box truck to a 3/4-ton cargo van. Keeping a trailer for a couple of weeks to a month might be cost prohibitive.
Terry
Terry:
I looked into it a bit, and the one I was interested in (4'x8' 145 cubic ft) is 14.95 a day, which is still too expensive. But there are other options.
One could post to Craigslist, seeking to rent a personal trailer for a few weeks. I'm sure that there are people who own small cargo trailers all over the country, who don't use them all too frequently, and would like to recoup a small portion of their cost. In fact, I have a friend who has a really short flatbed (nothing that I would personally use) that has been just sitting unused on his property for over 10 years now. He might never use it again, but if I know him, he'll never sell it either.
But regardless; these days there are ways to procure just about anything you want, anywhere you need it, anytime you wish, and under a wide variety of terms and conditions, so I'll keep this option open.
Mark, Uhaul and others regularly sell off their equipment... you might be able to get a decent deal on a used trailer. Another low cost source would be equipment auction houses. I have seen some really good suitable trailers going for a song. My neighor just bought a used ambulance, that he was going to gut for his business, $5,000 dollars for a 8 year old vehicle in great shape. He said there was a 4x8 tandem trailer (ex Uhaul) there that he almost bought for 500 dollars. He said it was virtually spotless. At your quoted 15/day that trailer would pay for itself in a little over a month. Just sayin' the deals are out there if that is a route you are thinking of taking.
FWIW, Brian
The biggest thing is that I wouldn't want to drag it all over the country with me, when I might only use it two or three times a year. I plan on getting and staying pretty lean, which is another reason that I'm gravitating towards this particular platform.
There's a bumper sticker out there that says: "Less Stuff = More Freedom", and I tend to agree.
From the sound it, then it's probably not a solution for your needs, unless you had a place to park it when you're not using it. Still, a large enough trailer (2200lbs) say one big enough (7x14) to carry a Smart car (1600lbs), spare water (30gal = 250lbs),battery bank(500lbs), tools and equipment(200lbs), and the roof covered with over 90 sq ft. of solar panels(250lbs) might still be towable by modest rig. Just a wild "guessimate". Smart car or the trailer might not be rugged enough for a serious boondocking adventure though.
Hmmm, hate going off topic but... this is giving me an idea for my trains if we go the MH route for our rig
..... ok back to the subject at hand, anyway good luck with your research, as we have time before we go, I'd be interested in whatever setup you come up with. I'll bet Chip (Sushidog) is following your plan with interest also.
Brian
I agree with the less stuff = more freedom... some things are hard to let go of.
We'll see if 3 or 4 years will change that view.
-- Edited by biggaRView on Wednesday 11th of March 2015 03:37:08 PM
From the sound it, then it's probably not a solution for your needs, unless you had a place to park it when you're not using it. Still, a large enough trailer (2200lbs) say one big enough (7x14) to carry a Smart car (1600lbs), spare water (30gal = 250lbs),battery bank(500lbs), tools and equipment(200lbs), and the roof covered with over 90 sq ft. of solar panels(250lbs) might still be towable by modest rig.
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Not looking for anything that big. I don't plan on towing a vehicle. What I'd be looking for is the smallest thing available, as I seriously doubt that I'd be carrying more than 1,000 lbs of additional supplies. What would be really nice is if you could actually buy a U-Haul cargo trailer, then give it to a dealer for him to lease out, providing that you would be allowed to pick up a similar unit at any of their franchise locations, and drop it off again anywhere you please for a nominal paperwork processing fee.
Thinking outside the cargo box.