Backing up tip

[featherbedder]

Also almost vehicles have remote controlled mirrors they help keep things in sight

[Air Cruiser]

Some of you are too funny!! Thanks for the laugh.............our Goldendoodle is looking at me like I've lost my mind laughing out loud with just the two of us here!

Sometimes we hit it right on, and then other times it's like we are from different planets -- speaking of the backing up. I always feel so foolish and imagine that everyone in the campground has been watching us. After reading this, I've now come to the conclusion that I can hold my head high and not worry about why the other campers are red faced, trying to cover their mouths and act as though they are coughing, with shoulders shaking! (Another way I know they have been watching us.)

By the way, Alumaholic, we'll take two of the T-shirts, if you have extras, please.

Deb

[Budget M3]

Originally Posted by markdoane

Don't you use Facetime? Have her stand in the spot and point her phone at the trailer.

This is BRILLIANT!!! I used to just tell the DW to stand where I can see her in the mirror and yell if I am about to hit something. Otherwise I would jump in and out of the truck to get the trailer where I want it. Facetime is perfect because it will save me jumping in and out as much, while still retaining the STOP NOW voice command. Thanks for the tip!

[ddstech]

FaceTime assuming you are connected to wifi right away at your camp site.

What about waiting for google earth satellite images to update? I mean it could be weeks, or months, but why is everybody in such a rush?

[rodsterinfl]

Great posts

I ran over the wife a few years back....



Just kidding...

I have two cones that I use as I am alone. The place where I keep the trailer affords me 12 inches of clearance (6" on each side) and I have learned to use cones to gauge a tight fit. It is easier for me in open spaces but as others have said, the left side as guide is critical. I use a cone about a foot off of where the wheel should be. I have been laughed at too on my first trip. There was a whole group playing ball in the drive area and they all stopped to watch - about 10-15 people. Can't worry about it- have to focus on task at hand.

[Hodum]

Originally Posted by Shacksman

Simple method to save the screaming. We arrive at the campsite she picks out, she gets out and goes to visit neighbour Airstream, I park the trailer. No hand waving, no yelling.

I really like this post. I have always said women can not give directions. She has always said men can not follow directions.

Mark Twain had it right, "Every man needs a wife, because somethings you can not blame on the government."

I love pulling so I'll keep backing.

[ROBERT CROSS]

...learn to do it slow much more enjoyable.

Bob

[Blondin]

Originally Posted by masseyfarm

If you use the cell phones out of state, you may be charged roam charges??? Certainly out of country would apply.

The hand held wakie talkie's work for many things, including shopping in the big box stores. That way you can shop separately and then meet at the till when ready to go. No wasted time in the shoe department when you could have been in the hardware.

Dave

I'll second the wakie-talkie's!!!!!!

[JamuJoe]

Originally Posted by SeymourAC

After the usual yelling, hand signals, starts and stops, flared tempers, etc. during the normal course of backing up my 25' FC, my wife said why don't I just call your cell from my cell and we can discuss your backing up over the bluetooth. No need to get walkie talkies, your hands free system in your truck works great! A real marriage saver for us.

Seymour, good for you that you discovered the system that fits YOU. We all have different preferences. Some individuals simply aren't that effective with hand signals. The First Mate and I love our "Marriage Saver" headsets for navigating reefs and anchoring or docking our sailboat, and generally dock the Airstream using hand signals or the phone as you describe, depending upon the situation. Our (slowly learned) key to marital and docking (boat or trailer) success is to both assess the situation, agree on a plan, and then take our time to do it without drama. Who cares if you peacefully go through several iterations to get it right? It's not a race or contest. There are good practices, but no single correct way.

[BAB]

I installed a Voyager wireless camera right above the rear clearance lights...and it has a very sensitive microphone system as part of its package. Still, nothing beats just getting out of the trailer and checking with my own eyes.

[Snedwid]

We have a very different methodology.
Her job is that of safety observer only. Looking eveywhere at once, seeing any danger. Job #1 and only, don't let me hit anything or do any damage. The truck windows are down, she has a definate responsibility to start screaming and arm waving BEFORE any sheet metal gets bent.
My job is placement. I get out look the site over and decide where I want the port aft corner and port forward corner, to get hook ups right. These 2 spots are marked with a rag during daylite hours and a flashlite at night. Pull up slightly past center with the site to port, get the initial angle, and put her in the hole. If the site is to starboard, the same procedure applies, its just a little more difficult seeing the starbord corner markings in the mirrors. Never any discourse or problem, no damages, and usually only one or two pull ups required.
As my Granny used to say, "Yer in like Flynn".

[Rollster]

Originally Posted by Alumaholic

Hers says, "Stop Shouting at Me" (sob)!"
His says, "I'm not shouting, DAMN IT!"

We need a pair of those t-shirts, too!