One Year Ago: First Trip - First Breakdown

While this isn't our first RV, it was my first adventure with our Tiffin Allegro Bay: an 800 mile trip to outfit it for off-grid use. I almost made it there, but didn't. I felt that it was straining up hills the last few miles, then it stalled thirty five miles from my destination. Of course it happened on Memorial Day on a six lane highway in the scorching heat of Florida. What was I to do? We had towing coverage on our insurance, so I gave them a call to inform them of my dilemma. The first three companies they dispatched were not equipped to handle the weight or size of our motorhome. I called each company as soon as I received confirmation to save them the trip and me having to wait for each to arrive and have to start over again. Once being assured #4 would be able to help, I cranked up the generator, then the air conditioning, made a sandwich, turned on the TV, and waited 5 hours for the tow.

I did make it to my destination, maybe 8 or so hours later than I had intended, and with the help of a tow truck, but all was fine and I actually slept restfully that night.

The next morning I left messages for mobile mechanics, only one of which replied. He came out the following day, replaced the fuel filter and thought all was fine. That Friday, he came out to replace the driveshaft bolts (removed/stripped from the tow) to complete the job, only to discover the fuel pump was okay for idling, but too weak for actually driving. It took until Monday for him to locate, acquire and install the fuel pump, but I was back on my way home that afternoon. I owe much gratitude to my dear friends Jill and Kyle, who not only put me up for the weekend but also picked me up and brought me back. It was a treasurable time catching up with them, and may have been that the situation destined me to be there.

We've been fortunate that a year later, any stops we have made have been planned and without issue.

Should you have a breakdown, don't panic. Be calm, patient and understanding. If possible, grab a bite to eat as a distraction. The less agitated you get, the more willing those assisting will want to help you.

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