Monday, July 20, 2015

Trouble on the Road - Tire Failure

RoadAbode - Trouble on the Road : Tire Failure
It's not something you expect, but it does happen. The last time this happened, it was also on a Guys RoadTrip. On the way home from Gettysburg, on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, RoadAbode shook and rumbled a bit, and I heard a loud, almost ripping sound. My buddies looked at me questioningly, and I let out a quiet "damn!" as I put on the hazards and looked for a place to pull over. I already knew what had happened. Tire Trouble. Fortunately it happened right before a wide emergency pull-off area to park RoadAbode into.. I jumped out and inspected the damage.  The tread separated from the inside, curside dually tire.  It was pretty close to the stretch of highway it happened to last time. Conditions were the same. Extra hot day, and I had verified the tire pressures before leaving. Thankfully there was no damage to the Honda Fit we tow, even though it had just run over the remnants of the "road gator" we left behind. To add a little more injury, as the tread left our now bald tire, the road gator must have banged our tailpipe, which exhausts behind the wheel, up into the bottom our side wall, crumpling a small portion of filon.
At least no one got hurt, and it's all fixable, right?
Sitting on the side of the Road
Waiting on Service. Glad we were at a good pull-off on the PA Turnpike
After calming down, I dug out my Good Sam Card and called the number. Not a direct line, I needed to wait for the prompts. It was comforting to hear the young lady first verify we were in a safe location. She then took my member info, and started her search for a company that would change our tire. From her questions, she did not seem knowledgeable about RVs. Also, she needed a street address or town to try to pinpoint where we were. I knew we were headed east on the PA turnpike, and our mile marker, but finding a town to help was not exactly easy, even using Google Maps on my smart phone. She finally reached a tow operator that was currently on another job, but could be to us in two hours. Well - guess we'd have to wait. I though about turning on the Generator and house air-conditioner, but RoadAbode was on a 1/4 tank of gas - fine to get back home but maybe not to run the genset for a few hours too. So we broke out the camp chairs, sat in the shade of a nearby tree, and proceeded to wait.
Not much went on. I decided to grab a trash bag and gloves and clean up our little piece of PA Turnpike paradise. Then I disconnected the Honda Fit so we would be ready to change out the tire. The few tools the service would need I readied - a tool to crank down the tire, and a tool that gets the locking nut off the wheel covers. A dump truck passing by also blew a tire - right across from where RoadAbode sat. The driver just kept going.
RoadAbode - Location on the PA Turnpike
Where we were for 3 & half hours
About forty minutes into our wait I received a call from Good Sam. Seems the service company would need to add another hour to our wait time! "Can you see if there is someone else available?" The woman from Good Sam said she'd call me back. 10 minutes later she said she had another company and they would arrive in 40 minutes. It was Abel Brothers. They fixed RoadAbode last time!
I decided to run the genset and air-conditioner to cool off a bit.
Within 30 minutes two young guys pulled up and began work on RoadAbode.
They were good guys and we talked a little about camping and RVing - one had even been to Gettysburg in the past few weeks. They were curious about my tow setup, and showed them how it worked - and what cars with automatic transmissions could be towed.
It was obvious that one was teaching the other. They went over how to chock the wheels safely, and how to get the tires off without damage. Within thirty minutes - they were done! It was a hot day, so I got each a large Gatorade from RoadAbode's fridge. They were happy for that!

Since the "blowout" we've replaced both duallys on the curbside. I'm also keeping the tires at about 5lbs less pressure than I use to. We've had three trips since, with no issue.


Guys fixing up RoadAbode

RoadAbode Tire Trouble - Damaged Sidewall
Damage from the tread giving way and wacking the tailpipe up and into RoadAbode's sidewall 



Guy's RoadTrip 2015 ~ Experiencing Gettysburg


Each year, I gather a some friends in either July or August for a Guy's RoadAbode RoadTrip. The playbook usually incorporates a few of the same elements year to year that seems to make the trip successful. Some solid local eats to try.. Some sights to check out. A short driving distance to a winery,  brewery, distillery or perhaps a combination of a few to sample. A campground with a view, or beside water. If we can get them, both. Something cooked over a campfire. Over four days we take these elements and jumble them together, and usually what's created from this mix is a relaxing weekend with great friends. This year was no exception.

Traveling to Gettysburg

My two travel companions for Guy's RoadTrip 2015 have traveled in RoadAbode before. Kev has been my best friend since high school, and Ed and I volunteer together at our church. Not until our guy trip together years ago did I realize Ed and Kev knew each other - and we all went to the same high school. They've been great as travel partners.
Taking the day off from work, I left at 10:30am - picked up buddy Ed not far from RoadAbode Crews residence in Philadelphia. Then off to the Northwestern Suburbs to pickup buddy Kev. Kev is actually pretty close to where we store RoadAbode. A short ride to RoadAbode  loaded our weekend gear, connected the Honda Fit behind with our towbar, and off we went.
The traffic and weather were on our side - which made the ride up really easy and enjoyable. We pulled into Gettysburg Campground about 2:30pm, a half hour before check in. The staff was already waiting, ready to wave us in and give us instructions on the registration process. Made sure to use my Good Sam membership discount -  something I've forgotten to do in the past.
We got RoadAbode settled and leveled in her campsite, setup camp chairs, lit a campfire - and we're home!

Campsite at Gettysburg Campground

The campground is on the outskirts of the town of Gettysburg, but located so that you can easily get to the center of town, or the battlefields in 10 minutes or less. The campsite we had, site 183, backs up and has access to Marsh creek. While setting up our campsite, it was great to hear the creek babbling behind us, and be shaded in an almost picnic grove like setting. The main road is paved, but the campsite access roads are all well maintained gravel. The only item I wish was closer was the shower house - but its not an item that should deter someone from wanting to utilize this particular campsite.
Enjoying an adult beverage fireside

The Town of Gettysburg

The town of Gettysburg is quaint, branching out from it's towne centre's roundabout to plenty of touristy activities pertaining to the Battle fought in 1863. There are battlefield tours offered by car, bus, scooter and horse drawn carriage. Boutiques specializing in battle memorabilia from both sides of the conflict are plentiful. Eateries from simple to elegant abound. Small, local museums offer a glimpse into what life was like during those three hot muggy days of July in 1863.
There is more to do in Gettysburg than one can take in on a long weekend. Below I list the best of what we experienced in this historical place.
"Olde Timey" Baseball Exposition we found!

The National Park Visitors Center

If you want to get a feeling and understanding for what happened during the Battle of Gettysburg on your own terms, then your first stop should be The National Park Visitors Center. You'll have the ability to stop at what interests you and move through what does not. Pay the Combined ticket 12.50 (discounts are out there) and see the Movie, the Cyclorama and the Museum
The movie, A New Birth of Freedom,  is narrated by Morgan Freeman and sponsored by the History Channel. The 15-20 minute film gives visitors a short overview of what led to the battle, and the aftermath.
As you leave the theater, your exit leads to the entry of the Cyclorama. This restored 360 degree art installation was first created in 1883. Cycloramas were the  "3d movie" of their time, depicting famous events. The Gettysburg battle is dramatized with lighting, music and narration. The base of the painting is built into a diorama, giving the viewer a feeling of being part of the action.
After leaving the viewing platform of the Cyclorama, don't miss the hallway depicting how the painting was found and subsequently restored. The history behind the painting's creation and finally finding a home in the visitors center is one of my favorite areas of the museum.
Once you leave the Cyclorama, you enter into the museum proper. Where the film painted with broad strokes, the museum tells the story in detail. Historic information from the politics, to the battle plans, and the individual stories of soldiers and town folk of Gettysburg are found. There are places to linger and learn about the history of what caused this turning point of the Civil war to occur.Short movies, dioramas and artifacts all help to tell the story.

The Battlefields

View from Little Round Top toward Devil's Den
A visit to Gettysburg is not complete unless you visit where the three day battle took place. Truthfully, you cannot step anywhere in or surrounding Gettysburg without having set foot in a place the battle took place! Gettysburg town center was overrun by both sides of the conflict, with homes and businesses becoming impromptu field hospitals or staging areas for soldiers. Plenty of historic placards help tell about those pieces of the story. The areas where the largest loss of life and fiercest battles raged are outside the town. Simple places names like The Peach Orchard or The Wheat Field tell little of the horrible loss of life that happened in these places. Other's like Devil's Den give a slight insight of what happened to the men that battled there.
To help understand the battle, you can sign up for one of the many tours or even hire a private guide. Being a bit frugal, I downloaded podcasts with maps available for free from a partnership between CivilWarTraveler.com and Gettysburg National Military Park. The stories behind Devil's Den were some of the most interesting to me. There are many podcasts on this site, interspersed from throughout the Civil War's battle locations. The primary Gettysburg battles are all included with interesting narration and maps on the site.

Wineries & Eateries

Besides history, there are plenty of places to dine, enjoy local brews or wines in Gettysburg. As with many tourist areas in our nation currently, there are distinctive local breweries and small wine makers popping up in the region. Part of the fun at these quaint establishments is talking with the server during a tasting about the area, and learn of what makes their beverage distinct. Having a local's insight into the area can be helpful, and may even offer up some information about a local spot off the beaten path.
Here were some of our favorites for a bite or a drink in Gettysburg.
For pizza, Tommy's is the spot. Hand tossed with fresh ingredients with a nice choice of sides make this a popular spot. Check out one of their specialty pizzas for something with a little more of an interesting kick!
For some unique breakfast choices, check in on Lincoln Square to the Gettysburg Bakery. You can of course get your fill of delicious european inspired pastries, muffins and other baked goodies. But - check the chalkboard for the daily breakfast/lunch specials. Their sandwiches are thoughtfully made, flavorful combinations. Just thinking of the Smoked Salmon on warm Bialy I had with an accompaniment of fresh fruit gets my mouth watering! Eat there - or take with! Extra points for some great coffee blends - the Ethiopian was a nice morning treat.
Smoked Salmon, Herbed Cream Cheese on Freshly Baked Bialy
If you are looking for more standard "fill ma' belly" breakfast fare, then check out Dunlap's. Large Hotcakes, great omelets, good service and nice seating (booths) area.  Have to say we went back for a few burgers at lunch and the meal was not as good as our breakfast.
If you have a hankering for ice cream, then of all the choices in Gettysburg - head to Mr. G's for handmade deliciousness. Right by Alumni Park, on the corner of Baltimore and Lefever Streets, the scoops are relatively large, chock full of whatever flavor you choose. There's plenty of seating areas both inside and out. Be warned - there are some interesting period ring toss games outside you may get hooked on before or after having a cone! If they have the Salted Caramel on the board - it was my favorite for the weekend - try it!
Ed, checking out the Selection at Mr. G's
Coincidentally, my favorite Gettysburg area adult beverage - Black Bear Cider - is served right next door. At Reid's Orchard, Winery and Cidery, step up to either the cider or wine tasting bar, and then settle on a glass (or bottle) of your  favorite. Head out the backdoor and if you time it right, you'll be able to enjoy one of the musical groups that are regularly booked there - no cover. (Protip - if you don't enjoy tasting wine or cider, then get a cone at Mr. G's, sit on one of the benches facing Reid's, and enjoy the musical entertainment just as well)
Clip of the band "Across the Pond" at Reid's Orchard, Winery & Cidery

The other winery we were able to partake of was located back on Lincoln Square, Hauser Winery. The tasting and seating area has a definite "upscale feel".  When we visited, we were the only patrons, and were able to relax and spend some time with our tasting. Besides red and fruit wines, they also produce Jack's hard cider. The visit was fun, but the wines were not my favorite. (I am a more dessert wine drinker)

Highlights of This RoadTrip

Staff of The Gettysburg Baking Company
  • Dropping our camp chairs into the low waters of Marsh creek behind RoadAbode, while chilling with an adult beverage with friends. A few friendly ducks and people on inner tubes floated by and said hello!
  • Breakfast at Gettysburg Baking Company - Fresh ingredients, and friendly staff  - located on Lincoln Square in the heart of the towne of Gettysburg. This high-end bakery has been open at this location since January 2015, but has been serving the area since the 1990s. Want fresh and tasty? Check them out!
  • Relaxing behind Reid's Cider House, enjoying the band Across the Pond while sipping Black Bear Cider and picking at a cheese plate.
  • Visiting the farmers market while antique cars rolled by in Lincoln Square
  • While in the National Park Museum, listening to Ed explain some of the similarities and differences of battlefield medicine from Civil War to when he served our country as a medic.
  • Finding the memorial for Abner Doubleday by chance (there are memorials EVERYWHERE in Gettysburg) after watching the "olde timey" baseball exposition.
  • Grabbing some rolls, brats & cheese at Kenny's Market and having a "weenie roast" over the campfire as the sun set.


With it's history, eateries, wineries and natural areas, Gettysburg is a place to kickback and just enjoy. There are more options than just learning about the battle in a weekend. Plenty of tasty restaurants and cafes, eclectic shops and places to unwind are found in this small town. Whatever you choose - you will find something to enjoy. The RoadAbode Crew plans on visiting again!
Have you been to Gettysburg? What do you think we missed? What's your favorite place to catch a bite while there? Comment below, we'd love to hear about it!



Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Oh No! I Broke RoadAbode's Toilet!

Oh No! I Broke RoadAbode's Toilet!
Yes, I Think RoadAbode's Captain did it! Co-pilot saves the day!
While on our June Trip, just as we were about to depart from Jonestown KOA and head for Delaware Seashore State Park, Amy noticed the floor in RoadAbode's restroom was wet. Really wet. She checked around and could not see a leak point and I surmised (without actually looking) that the seal or flooring at the base of the toilet had failed. Amy started the process of putting down towels to dry the area while we got RoadAbode into "Travel configuration" for our trip southward. We talked how we could remedy the situation, either stopping somewhere along the way, or down in Delaware. Amy went back and after toweling some more, decided the water was not "used" - thankfully - but clean water!
So where was it coming from? 
RV toilet DiagramWe could not see any drips from the inlet in the back of the toilet, and the pressure (we always use a regulator) was not abnormally high. Holding the handle and letting the water run while flushing, Amy discovered the issue. A seam that connects the bottom pedestal to the area right under the seat had small droplets of water leaking out. Behind the seam is where the water flows to get the "swirling" action to flush down the toilets contents. After over ten years (and probably my big butt) of use, it no longer was a water tight seam.
We might be able to fix this!
Though we had a tube of window caulk on-board, We decided to stop somewhere along the way and pickup some Silicone sealant - like what they use to seal aquariums. I've used this in the past for sealing cracks and such - that are not under pressure. Fortunately, the way the toilet is built the channel that the water is traveling through behind the cracked seal is not under pressure. The channel just directs the water around the upper edge of the bowl. Using the silicone should work.
While underway, we instructed the girls that they could use the toilet, but we would keep the water pump off. To flush, they would just use a filled water bottle rather than the flush valve. on the toilet. Amy scouted out a Walmart that was not too far off our travels in Delaware. Once there, the girls found the exact silicone sealant we were looking for in a nice, small tube - perfect for the job. Amy made sure the seam was dry, and liberally applied the sealant to the toilet. According to instructions, it had to cure for 24 hours.  So we let it do it's thing until the next day. (probably a little less that 24 hours) It was no longer tacky and the seam was completely covered and enclosed in the silicone. We put on the water and tested with the valve. It worked! For the rest of our stay we had no water issues from the toilet. Will be using for our upcoming guys trip to Gettysburg. We'll see how it holds up. So glad and blessed that I have a wife who is a quick thinker and can handle a little stress while out in RoadAbode.
broken toilet fixed
silicone applied
broken toilet fixedbroken toilet fixed


We are looking at newer toilets, and may purchase one in the near future. If you have any experience with a toilet you like of don't like, we'd love to learn from you. Write in the comments section below!
Happy travels!