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09-23-2017, 01:24 PM
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#1
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Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Vegas
State: Colorado
Posts: 54
THOR #9249
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Drive speed, wheel chocks
Hello everyone,
We do not have a unit yet but are seeking a Vegas/Axis 24.1 as our first RV and have enjoyed the information in the forum.
Couple of questions, in good weather and road conditions on the Interstates can you/should you drive an RV this size at 75-80 mph (I-70 speed limit Colorado-Utah)? Wondering about sudden side wind and shortening the life of the unit. I am used to wind concerns at highway speeds on my motorcycle but being a newbie know nothing about motor homes. I realize gas mileage probably suffers.
Secondly when parked in a level camp spot with full hookups, would I use wheel chocks like my RV trailer friends or do you just set the emergency brake or just put it in park and call it good?
Thanks.
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09-23-2017, 01:47 PM
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#2
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Hurricane 32A
State: Florida
Posts: 1,873
THOR #2829
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Quote:
Originally Posted by roadcouple
Hello everyone,
We do not have a unit yet but are seeking a Vegas/Axis 24.1 as our first RV and have enjoyed the information in the forum.
Couple of questions, in good weather and road conditions on the Interstates can you/should you drive an RV this size at 75-80 mph (I-70 speed limit Colorado-Utah)? Wondering about sudden side wind and shortening the life of the unit. I am used to wind concerns at highway speeds on my motorcycle but being a newbie know nothing about motor homes. I realize gas mileage probably suffers.
Secondly when parked in a level camp spot with full hookups, would I use wheel chocks like my RV trailer friends or do you just set the emergency brake or just put it in park and call it good?
Thanks.
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As for the speed... yes gas mileage will suffer the faster you go... Think the dealer I bought my first used RV from said it best - "you've got to pay to play"... lol
'Can you' and 'should you' may have different answers here...
Will it get up there - yes... Will you feel comfortable/safe driving it that fast (or more specifically stopping it from that speed) is a different question... Mine is longer and on a different chassis (Hurricane on F-53).. I rarely have it over 70 (new potential toad will lower that to 65 when/if I equip that one to tow)... I am very comfortable driving my car at 75-80 - but not so much the RV. Remember its the 'other idiots' on the road that might cause you to have to do something unnatural - and it just doesn't and never will have the same handling characteristics.
(But driving motorcycles I'm sure you know all about the 'other idiots'...)
Personal choice on what you feel comfortable with.
You will see many threads of handling mods - mostly for the F-53 but some apply to the E-450.
As for parked to camp - I would tend to say 'park' and 'brake' is fine - Assuming you have the rig leveled with blocks, etc.
But again I drop 4 leveling jacks too... except for stays at "Chateau Walmart" or rest areas...
I'm sure others will chime in.
__________________
Greg
Not yet retired...
Florida (Michigan transplant)
2014 Hurricane 32A
2000 Infinity (previous)
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09-23-2017, 02:09 PM
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#3
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Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Vegas
State: Colorado
Posts: 54
THOR #9249
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Thanks
Thanks for your comments Greg. I was thinking defensive driving similar in RV to a motorcycle.
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09-23-2017, 04:09 PM
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#4
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Axis/Vegas Enthusiast
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Axis 24.4
State: Michigan
Posts: 9,837
THOR #1150
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I frequently get up to 70 or even 75 on occasion in our Axis 24.1 (not going to admit to doing 80 but I'm sure the speedo needle has been there once). No issue at all doing that other than the V-10 gets quite a bit thirsty.
I've found the best/most comfortable way to drive it: Set the cruise control about 1 or 2 mph below whatever speed traffic is running at. That way you won't have to turn off cruise control that often as people won't be getting in your way (all the other traffic will just go around you and since the speed delta isn't that great you won't be really annoying too many people LOL).
As for gas mileage: If you keep it to 65 mph you can get close to 10 mpg or so (depending on the model year: the newer ones have a better transmission with more gears so they can get 0.5 - 1 mpg more than the older units).
Parking: Yup park it, and put the parking brake on. No jacks so you'll want to carry something to use for leveling (unless you buy a used one with jacks or you have the dealer install them).
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09-23-2017, 04:22 PM
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#5
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 22FE
State: Washington
Posts: 270
THOR #8606
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No one can tell anyone else what speed to drive but one thing to always remember, increased speed, especially with weight, will increase the distance you need to stop. I drive my cars at 7-8 mph over speed limit but when I drive my RV, I drive at a much lower speed due to weight and handling characteristics. Just common sense issue. My Class C, I drive between 60-62 unless passing. MPG, usually between 9-10.
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09-23-2017, 04:36 PM
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#6
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Axis 24.1 KC's Big Box
State: Kansas
Posts: 2,171
THOR #3510
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We love our Axis...we have had 2 previous motorhomes .. B+..and a toy hauler....Everything Jamie said, we agree ...
We run 65 and DO deal with the winds of western KS, eastern CO and Texas etc. often....our Axis gets 9-11 mpg .
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Ron & Kay n KC too !
2001 Scamp 13'
'KC's Little Box'
Jeep Wrangler TJ
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09-23-2017, 04:44 PM
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#7
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2023 Jayco Precept 31UL
State: Florida
Posts: 2,914
THOR #1589
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Welcome to the forum! You'll find good help here, we all were beginning RVers at one time!
The real question isn't whether you can drive an RV that fast, we see RV's speeding down the interstate all the time. The question should be, can you stop? I found the actual speed of our 2016 Vegas (E-350) is 1-2 mph below what the speedometer says. Another related concern is control in an emergency.
I usually run about 65 on the interstates,unless the limit is lower. At that speed, I can relax a bit and enjoy the ride. I leave plenty of room from the vehicle ahead and don't let getting boxed in once in awhile get to me. The late George Carlin said, "Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?"
Forget the wheel chocks, just set the parking brake. Some leveling blocks will be necessary in some campsites. Leveling jacks are great, we have them, but you would be wise to delay that expense for a while.
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Life is better when you cry a little, laugh a lot, and are thankful for everything you've got!
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09-23-2017, 04:49 PM
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#8
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I Think We're Lost!
Brand: Still Looking
Model: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
State: New York
Posts: 22,195
THOR #8860
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You need to drive at the speed that makes you and your passengers the most comfortable.
Having said this: I'm a reall "Low & Slow" guy. I rarely (if ever!) even exceed 60...
So remember: the passing lane is the one on the left! When you come up on me: put it to your best advantage!
I'm in no hurry to get anywhere!
__________________
"What: me worry?"
Good Sam Member 843599689
Current coach: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
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09-23-2017, 05:35 PM
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#9
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Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Vegas
State: Colorado
Posts: 54
THOR #9249
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You are all giving the same advice so it must be true. You make a great point with stopping with a heavier vehicle - I always sat that on ice 4 wheel drive is not 4 wheel stop.
Thanks all for the advice. My wife and I are looking forward to the experience, hopefully we are not that annoying couple parked next to one of you folks one day.
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09-23-2017, 10:07 PM
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#10
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I Think We're Lost!
Brand: Still Looking
Model: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
State: New York
Posts: 22,195
THOR #8860
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Quote:
Originally Posted by roadcouple
You are all giving the same advice so it must be true. You make a great point with stopping with a heavier vehicle - I always sat that on ice 4 wheel drive is not 4 wheel stop.
Thanks all for the advice. My wife and I are looking forward to the experience, hopefully we are not that annoying couple parked next to one of you folks one day.
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I hope that you DO park next to us!
The rest of the Park can complain about BOTH of us, and sharing it will, will make the load seem lighter!!
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"What: me worry?"
Good Sam Member 843599689
Current coach: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
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09-23-2017, 11:21 PM
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#11
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: ACE 30.3
State: Illinois
Posts: 371
THOR #8503
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Just took my first two week trip in our ACE 30.3, towing Kia Sorento. On the interstate it was comfortable at 60-65. Concur completely with the comments about stopping distances and maintaining adequate spacing, especially with a 4500 pound toad at the rear, although the tow dolly does have its own surge braking system. On a somewhat separate issue, if you use a GPS system that does not specialize in RV routing, check closely where it is routing you. We went into Ohio Amish country using Waze on my iPhone for navigation. It took us a very scenic route on narrow, hilly, winding county and township roads. No problems, but must drive slowly and stay alert. I got tired much more quickly just because of the added stresses of driving conditions, especially as a newbie.
__________________
Wayne & Jo Roe
Retired USAF
Thor ACE 30.3
FMCA #F479085
Good Sam #848205704
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09-23-2017, 11:34 PM
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#12
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2017 Windsport 29M
State: Indiana
Posts: 3,692
THOR #5196
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Think of speed and fuel mileage like a penny doubled a day, the faster you go the more fuel you use. The difference between 65 and 70 mph is about 10%. Speed won't hurt your coach, just your wallet!!! Slow down and enjoy the scenery!!!
You won't need chocks, put transmission in park and always apply the emergency brake and you're good to go. Trailers need chocks because they don't have a transmission to put in park or an emergency brake.
Everyone starts out as a rookie, ask lots of questions, RV people tend to be very friendly and willing to help. Main thing, have FUN!!!
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09-24-2017, 01:33 AM
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#13
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Senior Member
Brand: Redwood
Model: 36FB
State: Arizona
Posts: 1,766
THOR #3610
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If I had a nickel for every newbie parked next to me I'd have about $2!
Seriously don't hesitate to ask questions here or any park neighbor.
__________________
Fulltimed 10+ years
Sold '13 Thor Redwood 36 FB
Traded '13 GMC Denali DRW D/A
Replacement undetermined
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09-24-2017, 01:48 AM
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#14
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Forest River Forester 235
State: Indiana
Posts: 4,883
THOR #6826
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It's not a bad idea to carry chocks though if you have leveling jacks. If you park with the back lower than the front it's possible that the back wheels could come off the ground when you level. The front doesn't have a parking brake or transmission and theoretically you could roll off the jacks. Admittedly it's a slim risk but it's best to have thought about it and be prepared.
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09-24-2017, 01:52 AM
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#15
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Site Team
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: ACE 27.1
State: Florida
Posts: 14,047
THOR #7035
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Pete'sMH
It's not a bad idea to carry chocks though if you have leveling jacks. If you park with the back lower than the front it's possible that the back wheels could come off the ground when you level. The front doesn't have a parking brake or transmission and theoretically you could roll off the jacks. Admittedly it's a slim risk but it's best to have thought about it and be prepared.
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The Axis/Vegas does not have levelers.
__________________
Ted & Melinda
2016 ACE 27.1
2016 Chevy Sonic Toad - Selling
2020 Chevy Colorado Z71 Trail Runner Toad
2024 Chevrolet Trax 2RS - Soon 2B TOAD
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09-25-2017, 03:05 AM
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#16
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Vegas 25.2
State: Oregon
Posts: 272
THOR #6934
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We have the 25.2 and also try to cruise at about 65. No mileage estimates yet as everytime we have gone out we are either in the mountains or pulling a 5500 pound trailer. I do know, you have to watch it on interstate highways, you may look down and find you are doing 75. they will really go....It wont hurt anything but your mileage. We can actually hear a engine noise increase about 67, that makes it easier to keep down. As far as stopping, these things do really well, because the have all 4 wheel disc brakes.
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09-25-2017, 04:51 AM
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#17
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Senior Member
Brand: DRV
Model: ES 38RSSA
State: Montana
Posts: 137
THOR #5034
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Quote:
Originally Posted by gmc
As for the speed... yes gas mileage will suffer the faster you go... Think the dealer I bought my first used RV from said it best - "you've got to pay to play"... lol
'Can you' and 'should you' may have different answers here...
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x2^
Chocks... first thing down, last thing up. That adds to how many drivers get those 100K, 200K mi. accident free mile badges. YMMV.
Be well.
__________________
J&J
DRV Suites ES-38RSSA #9679
GM Denali 3500HD-Max 4x, CC, 8' DRW
EZGo-TXT, Yamaha-G22E, CC Precedent
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09-25-2017, 11:43 AM
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#18
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Windsport. 35M
State: New York
Posts: 306
THOR #6199
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Pete'sMH
It's not a bad idea to carry chocks though if you have leveling jacks. If you park with the back lower than the front it's possible that the back wheels could come off the ground when you level. The front doesn't have a parking brake or transmission and theoretically you could roll off the jacks. Admittedly it's a slim risk but it's best to have thought about it and be prepared.
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I always have chocks. Parking brakes and Park tranny pawl have failed me before. Also needed to change rear tires. Safety first.
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Shawn
2017 Windsport 35M
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09-26-2017, 12:03 AM
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#19
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2023 Jayco Precept 31UL
State: Florida
Posts: 2,914
THOR #1589
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Tfryman
The Axis/Vegas does not have levelers.
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Mine does! (Aftermarket HWH)
__________________
Life is better when you cry a little, laugh a lot, and are thankful for everything you've got!
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09-26-2017, 12:40 AM
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#20
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Gemini 24TX (Formerly)
State: California
Posts: 1,459
THOR #5821
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Pretty much any RV can be driving at 75 or even 80MPH. The question is always control, what if something unexpected happens, can you safely swerve at that speed, without losing it? Can you stop in time? Common sense and safety concerns says, bigger, heavier vehicle means more conservative driving.
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