Journey with Confidence RV GPS App RV Trip Planner RV LIFE Campground Reviews RV Maintenance Take a Speed Test Free 7 Day Trial ×
 

Go Back   Airstream Forums > Airstream Community Forums > Our Community
Click Here to Login
Register Vendors FAQ Community Calendar Today's Posts Search Log in

Reply
 
Thread Tools Search this Thread Display Modes
 
Old 10-20-2007, 04:44 PM   #1
Rivet Master
 
Bambi_Bandit's Avatar
 
2008 27' International FB
1964 19' Globetrotter
1955 26' Cruiser Overlander
Austin , Texas
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 608
Images: 12
Safety Upgrades?

I'm always trying to tweak my Airstream or Truck, most upgrades are for safety, comfort, or convenience. (sometimes for looks) ...so I'm curious, what others are doing for safety or "piece of mind" upgrades on their Airstreams and Tow Vehicles?

OK, I'll go first:

2005 Ford Excursion Diesel 4x4 Safety upgrades:2008 Intl Signature Series Safety upgrades:Please share what things you have done to upgrade / add safety to rig. I'd like to see if I can generate a more comprehesive list of safety upgrade options for others to reference.

Kevin
Bambi_Bandit is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-20-2007, 05:46 PM   #2
_
 
. , .
Join Date: Dec 2004
Posts: 8,812
that's a great list of upgrades bandit...

and a very useful idea for a thread...

my mods include most of what you've listed...

although battery brand isn't exactly a safety upgrade,

and many would argue that carrying a gun anywhere doesn't add to safety either...

security perhaps, but that's a 'hole nuther thread.

the mirrors are a HUGE bonus and here is a thread on install and looks 4 those interested...

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f238...uty-21799.html

lots of safety tweaks don't cost much either....

-i consider reflective tape (dot trucker stuff) well place to be a big help with night driving.

-leds for the steps at night, reflectors too

-clips on all outside doors in addition to locks...

-flashing breaker for the 7 pin.

-proper wheel choks for both tv and trailer...

-a noodle pad for stinger (saves my shins and others too!)

-floor level leds, like a passenger jet, to see at night...

-supports UNDER the steps to reduce the chance they will collapse

-gloves for everything.

-checklists for hitching, towing and so on...

-anti static pads and double/triple reinforced storage for lp, gas, diesel containers and the gen set...

-additional brake lights for both tv and trailer...

-bed retention buttons and bars and tie downs to prevent cargo movement...

-sealant INSIDE tires on single axle trailers....

-the 'wheel ramp' for changing a flat

-just added an 'easy down' gas strut for the truck tail gate (no more brute force, stained biceps or smashed digits)

-carrying and using a torque wrench on ALL 70 lug nuts

-an accurate tire gauge, make that 2...

-first aid supplies covered in this thread...

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f232...kit-10177.html

road side flares, flashers, triangles...

and so on....

keep 'em coming folks on the 'safety upgrades' thread...

cheers
2air'
__________________
all of the true things that i am about to tell you are shameless lies. l.b.j.

we are here on earth to fart around. don't let anybody tell you any different. k.v.
2airishuman is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-20-2007, 06:13 PM   #3
Rivet Master
 
Tin Hut's Avatar
 
2005 28' International CCD
Pagosa Springs , Colorado
Join Date: Aug 2003
Posts: 811
Images: 1
Safety Upgrade

Breakable glass front case riveted by entry door containing one can of Guinness for dehydration emergency.
__________________
"would you rather have a mansion full of money or a trailer full of love?"

Tin Hut is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-20-2007, 06:31 PM   #4
Rivet Master
 
Lumatic's Avatar
 
1971 25' Tradewind
1993 34' Excella
Currently Looking...
Estancia , New Mexico
Join Date: Feb 2005
Posts: 7,743
Images: 16
Blog Entries: 1
Carbon monoxide, propane detectors and fire extinguishers
__________________
Sail on silver girl. Sail on by. Your time has come to shine.
Lumatic is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-20-2007, 06:35 PM   #5
3 Rivet Member
 
BeBop's Avatar
 
2000 27' Safari
Berkeley , California
Join Date: Mar 2004
Posts: 135
Images: 1
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tin Hut
Breakable glass front case riveted by entry door containing one can of Guinness for dehydration emergency.
Just 1 can?
__________________
'00 Safari 27' Rear Twin
'03 Ford F-250 7.3TD/CC/LB 4x2 Bio-Diesel
"Hmmm... Smells like French Fries!"
Prodigy/Enkay/Hensley/Solar/LED lighting
AIR 4598 / WBCCI FCU 8579/
EAA 872814
BeBop is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-20-2007, 06:44 PM   #6
Rivet Master
 
cosmotini's Avatar

 
2021 27' Globetrotter
Saint Louis , Missouri
Join Date: Jan 2004
Posts: 1,108
Images: 83
Since the wireless backup camera seems to be a hit-or-miss proposition, I'd recommend a wired version.

I got mine from Headrest monitors, TFT LCD flip down car monitor, RV rear view camera, overhead consoles.

It came with enough wiring (2 30' lengths) that allowed me to run it under the back of the A/S to the hitch area. I fashioned a camera mount from some galvanized steel and mounted it to the bottom of the license plate. It's ugly but it works. The cable is held in place on the belly pan with some stainless screws and plastic cable fasteners. Those are the only holes I made for the installation.

The other cable runs from the monitor in my F250 to the bumper with adequate slack where I can connect the 2 of them when connecting everything else. I fished the cable from the cab through the rubber boot where the parking brake cable runs. I then zip tied it along the frame to the rear of the truck.

I just ordered a 2nd camera and additional cable that I will mount to the back of the truck. I want to mount it at the top of the tail gate and angle it down. I should be able to use it to hitch up as well as see if anyone is on my a$$ when not towing.

As Martha Stewart says, being able to see behind you when towing is a good thing.

The monitor can support 3 cameras.
__________________
Dennis
BRN #20321 Air #4056
"Oooh - They have the Internet on computers now!" - Homer Simpson
cosmotini is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-22-2007, 01:18 PM   #7
Rivet Master
 
Bambi_Bandit's Avatar
 
2008 27' International FB
1964 19' Globetrotter
1955 26' Cruiser Overlander
Austin , Texas
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 608
Images: 12
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2airishuman

<SNIP>

although battery brand isn't exactly a safety upgrade,

and many would argue that carrying a gun anywhere doesn't add to safety either...

security perhaps, but that's a 'hole nuther thread.

<SNIP>

-first aid supplies covered in this thread...

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f232...kit-10177.html

road side flares, flashers, triangles...

and so on....

keep 'em coming folks on the 'safety upgrades' thread...

cheers
2air'
Hi 2air,

True, the battery brand is not what I intended to promote, but more so, the switch to AGMs give me a more "piece of mind" when on rough gravel roads in the middle of nowhere, primarily for vibration resistance / tolerance. From a safety standpoint, I want to know I have good 12V power for the truck and trailer at all times...

Regarding the carrying a gun, I won't comment. That's all personal preference, but the current polls and posts are quite interesting:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f161...ster-3360.html

From being past LEO, it's a safety thing for me, as I encountered numerous home or vehicular (RV's included) theft reports that included firearms and ammuntion that WAS NOT LOCKED. From a LEO point of view, that puts more guns / ammo in the street in the wrong hands, so using a safe is due dilligance any gun owner should have, especially when on the road as vehicular theft occurs more often than residental (permanent) homes.

I've considered the red/white reflective tape too, just haven't decided on the impact to visual asthetics yet.

What's a "bed retention button"?

Yes, I also carry a torque wrench, road side flares, & , triangles.

I also bought a remote control Go-light and use it for 2 purposes: First, to help me see some signs (road or otherwise) when I get into a remote unknown campground in the middle of the night. I can't tell you how many times I've had to roll down the window or actually get out of the truck with a flashlight to see the micro-sign posted "campground this way ----------->".... and missed it and have to back the truck and trailer out....

Second, I use it to hook up utilities at night, it allows me to focus a light where I need it without having to wear a headlight, or bother neighbors with my docking lights or truck headlights.

http://www.magnalight.com/pc-102-35-golight-stryker-3049-m-wireless-remote-control-spotlight-with-2-remotes-magnetic-base-click-to-buy.aspx

You reminded me that I must go thru my first aid kid and removed expired stuff an put new stuff in....

I even carry a first aid kit for the girls (the 4 legged furry ones). Been to too many places in the middle of nowhere or hours from the nearest vet. I have a list of stuff I carry that I'll post in a different thread...


Kevin
Bambi_Bandit is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-22-2007, 01:33 PM   #8
Rivet Master
 
Bambi_Bandit's Avatar
 
2008 27' International FB
1964 19' Globetrotter
1955 26' Cruiser Overlander
Austin , Texas
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 608
Images: 12
Quote:
Originally Posted by cosmotini
Since the wireless backup camera seems to be a hit-or-miss proposition, I'd recommend a wired version.

I got mine from Headrest monitors, TFT LCD flip down car monitor, RV rear view camera, overhead consoles.

It came with enough wiring (2 30' lengths) that allowed me to run it under the back of the A/S to the hitch area. I fashioned a camera mount from some galvanized steel and mounted it to the bottom of the license plate. It's ugly but it works. The cable is held in place on the belly pan with some stainless screws and plastic cable fasteners. Those are the only holes I made for the installation.

The other cable runs from the monitor in my F250 to the bumper with adequate slack where I can connect the 2 of them when connecting everything else. I fished the cable from the cab through the rubber boot where the parking brake cable runs. I then zip tied it along the frame to the rear of the truck.

I just ordered a 2nd camera and additional cable that I will mount to the back of the truck. I want to mount it at the top of the tail gate and angle it down. I should be able to use it to hitch up as well as see if anyone is on my a$$ when not towing.

As Martha Stewart says, being able to see behind you when towing is a good thing.

The monitor can support 3 cameras.
Hey cosmotini, which one did you get? do you have pics posted? I'm interested to see the setup. I've even thought about having 3 cameras put in on the airstream, 1 rear, 2 each side for those times you can't see the side from the tow vehicle being at sharp angle...Audiovox Voyager ® Color Tri-View Back-up System with Tilt-Cam and Night-Vue®

The wireless camera from Costco is doing it's job, helping me aim the Hensley stinger... but would like something better that I could have both on the truck and trailer...

Kevin
Bambi_Bandit is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-22-2007, 05:26 PM   #9
_
 
. , .
Join Date: Dec 2004
Posts: 8,812
Quote:
Originally Posted by Bambi_Bandit
...
I've considered the red/white reflective tape too, just haven't decided on the impact to visual asthetics yet.

What's a "bed retention button"?
Bed Bugs - Truck Bed Cargo Anchors - Free Shipping

these work great in truck beds, much better than i ever expected.

aesthetically the the tape can look great, this has been on 2+ years...

and it IS really reflective!

cheers
2air'
Attached Thumbnails
Click image for larger version

Name:	reflective_tape.jpg
Views:	176
Size:	250.0 KB
ID:	47853   Click image for larger version

Name:	reflective_tape2.jpg
Views:	155
Size:	262.5 KB
ID:	47854  

Attached Images
 
__________________
all of the true things that i am about to tell you are shameless lies. l.b.j.

we are here on earth to fart around. don't let anybody tell you any different. k.v.
2airishuman is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-22-2007, 07:14 PM   #10
Rivet Master
 
cosmotini's Avatar

 
2021 27' Globetrotter
Saint Louis , Missouri
Join Date: Jan 2004
Posts: 1,108
Images: 83
Quote:
Originally Posted by Bambi_Bandit
Hey cosmotini, which one did you get? do you have pics posted? I'm interested to see the setup. I've even thought about having 3 cameras put in on the airstream, 1 rear, 2 each side for those times you can't see the side from the tow vehicle being at sharp angle...Audiovox Voyager ® Color Tri-View Back-up System with Tilt-Cam and Night-Vue®

The wireless camera from Costco is doing it's job, helping me aim the Hensley stinger... but would like something better that I could have both on the truck and trailer...

Kevin
No pics now, but I should be able to get some this weekend.

My item # was SMS7001-1087KIT which is the monitor and camera numbers.

I paid $270 plus shipping.
__________________
Dennis
BRN #20321 Air #4056
"Oooh - They have the Internet on computers now!" - Homer Simpson
cosmotini is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-23-2007, 08:46 PM   #11
Rivet Master
 
Bambi_Bandit's Avatar
 
2008 27' International FB
1964 19' Globetrotter
1955 26' Cruiser Overlander
Austin , Texas
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 608
Images: 12
Also added to my list:

High visibility refelctive saftey vest - Just in case I have to change a road side tire or something like that at night...

Kevin
Bambi_Bandit is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-23-2007, 09:18 PM   #12
More than one rivet loose
 
thecatsandi's Avatar

 
Currently Looking...
Los Alamos , New Mexico
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,756
Beacause they don't have too

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bambi_Bandit
  • ABC Fire Extingisher in Bedroom (can be used if hall is blocked or used as blunt object to break open window) Someone please tell me why Aistream does not put ABC rated ones from the factory?
Kevin
Because they don't have to. RVIA most likely says not required.
__________________
Michelle TAC MT-0
Sarah, Snowball

Looking for a 1962 Flying Cloud

thecatsandi is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-23-2007, 09:27 PM   #13
Rivet Master
 
53flyingcloud's Avatar
 
1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah , Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,478
Images: 17
Blog Entries: 1
Flashlight.
53flyingcloud is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-23-2007, 09:27 PM   #14
More than one rivet loose
 
thecatsandi's Avatar

 
Currently Looking...
Los Alamos , New Mexico
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,756
questions, questions, questions

Quote:
Originally Posted by 2airishuman
-i consider reflective tape (dot trucker stuff) well place to be a big help with night driving.
Source?
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2airishuman
-leds for the steps at night, reflectors too
Great Idea, Send pictures!
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2airishuman
-flashing breaker for the 7 pin.
Whats this?
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2airishuman
-floor level leds, like a passenger jet, to see at night...
I want some! sounds like a neat idea. where did you get them?
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2airishuman
-supports UNDER the steps to reduce the chance they will collapse
Adjustable? What do they look like?
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2airishuman
-carrying and using a torque wrench on ALL 70 lug nuts
Amen! for my 56 lug nuts!
__________________
Michelle TAC MT-0
Sarah, Snowball

Looking for a 1962 Flying Cloud

thecatsandi is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-23-2007, 09:40 PM   #15
Rivet Master
 
53flyingcloud's Avatar
 
1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah , Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,478
Images: 17
Blog Entries: 1
Double check..

Quote:
Originally Posted by thecatsandi
Because they don't have to. RVIA most likely says not required.
Not so,
lifted off the RVIA website..
quote:
Fire & Life Safety Requirements as specified in NFPA 1192 Standard for RVs.
  • Interior finish flame spread limitations are required.
  • Minimum exit facilities providing unobstructed travel to the outside of the vehicle must be available.
  • Smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, CO detectors and LP-Gas detectors are mandate based on applicable criteria.
unquote:
They compiled by using the cheapest and smallest, IMHO.
53flyingcloud is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-23-2007, 09:57 PM   #16
More than one rivet loose
 
thecatsandi's Avatar

 
Currently Looking...
Los Alamos , New Mexico
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,756
That would be ABC rated extinguisher not just having one.
__________________
Michelle TAC MT-0
Sarah, Snowball

Looking for a 1962 Flying Cloud

thecatsandi is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-23-2007, 10:19 PM   #17
_
 
. , .
Join Date: Dec 2004
Posts: 8,812
Quote:
Originally Posted by thecatsandi
Source? Great Idea, Send pictures! Whats this?
I want some! sounds like a neat idea. where did you get them? Adjustable What do they look like? Amen! for my 56 lug nuts!
the reflective tape is available at most big trucker stops and most auto supply stores.

it can also be purchased on line; ebay has rolls of dot reflective tape listed.

i love the stuff!

12v strips of led lighting for walkways or the entry steps, is again widely available...

easy to wire and so many color/ bulb choices...

the step support/s are pretty cool.

these round ones actually slide into the alum a/s steps underside (there are 2 perfectly spaced tabs) so they look made for air'...

i use 2 as one wasn't as steady. they notch up to get close then screw up/down for exact spacing.

ideal whenever both steps are open and used. you know how that bottom step stretches under load...

eBay Motors: RV Step Stabilizer - Supports Steps up to 12" High (item 320160313122 end time Nov-18-07 04:40:50 PST)

Save at RV Partscenter - RV Parts and Supply

airstreamofarkansas has them in stock i think. they work great and look better in hand, than these pics.

the flasher relay plugs into the 7 pin, connecting battery to ALL exterior lights...

the flashing is fun at rallys, but mine paid for itself the first time the trailer was towed by a roadside service.

their 7 pin wouldn't reach mine and we were going NO WHERE at night without flashers...

i stuck the relay in and the entire a/s flashed going down the interstate...

cool!

Electrical Wire, Electrical Supplies, Automotive Wire, Wire Terminals, Wire Loom

(click on the 'switchers, relays and flashers' tab; see 12 flashers on lower right...0

most auto parts stores stock these too.

cheers
2air'
__________________
all of the true things that i am about to tell you are shameless lies. l.b.j.

we are here on earth to fart around. don't let anybody tell you any different. k.v.
2airishuman is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-24-2007, 01:05 AM   #18
Rivet Master
 
3Ms75Argosy's Avatar
 
1975 Argosy 26
1963 24' Tradewind
Seattle , Washington
Join Date: Aug 2002
Posts: 2,341
Images: 7
Not to sound stupid - but 2air, how did you wire the relay? Which strength did you buy?
Thx! I always knew you were a "flasher!" : >
Marc
3Ms75Argosy is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-24-2007, 02:32 AM   #19
3 Rivet Member
 
volvophile's Avatar
 
Vintage Kin Owner
colorado springs , Colorado
Join Date: Nov 2005
Posts: 149
Images: 14
hm, lets see......
Replace the aged & corroded Bargman 99s with LED trucklights- I got tired of not knowing when theyre working or burned out.

Carbon Monoxide/ smoke alarm.

GFI main breaker to cover the whole trailer.

I suppose a break controller would be considered a safety upgrade because I got by without one with my TV/TT combo.
__________________
Champagne wishes and Caviar dreams!
Budwieser budget.
volvophile is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-24-2007, 02:46 AM   #20
_
 
. , .
Join Date: Dec 2004
Posts: 8,812
Quote:
Originally Posted by 3Ms75Argosy
...how did you wire the relay? Which strength did you buy?...
hi marc

look for a 2 prong round heavy duty flasher relay....

the 2 prongs fit perfectly into any adjacent 2 slots in a standard 7 pin.

slots 3 and 4 are usually battery and lights....

the relay will power the lights and make them blink!

i went with a heavy duty 20 amp flasher relay, about 20 bucks.

the standard duty is about 8-9 $

it really is just plug and play.

IF you don't want flashing lights but just want to power the exterior lights from the trailer batteries..

use a fuseable link (basically a fuse holder with 2 wire leads) and stick it in 3 and 4.

i didn't invent this and here is a couple of threads with pictures from barry....

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f447...tml#post444517

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f447...cle-35786.html

IF you ever needed to leave the trailer roadside,

plugging in the relay would let the lights flash just like a car and for a very long time (days)...

when i needed a tow in idaho, this lit up the trailer for 50 miles without problems...

cheers

2air (i'm a streaker not a flasher!)
__________________
all of the true things that i am about to tell you are shameless lies. l.b.j.

we are here on earth to fart around. don't let anybody tell you any different. k.v.
2airishuman is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are Off
Pingbacks are Off
Refbacks are Off


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
'96 Excella Upgrades sander17 1994 - 1996 Excella 18 08-23-2011 10:16 AM
vintage TV upgrades remcolent Tow Vehicles 10 10-01-2006 09:29 PM
upgrades dsmith 2002 - 2005 International 20 03-12-2006 09:11 AM
P-30 suspension upgrades ??? donnall Airstream Motorhome Forums 3 11-24-2003 10:30 PM


Featured Campgrounds

Reviews provided by

Disclaimer:

This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Airstream, Inc. or any of its affiliates. Airstream is a registered trademark of Airstream Inc. All rights reserved. Airstream trademark used under license to Social Knowledge LLC.



All times are GMT -6. The time now is 08:33 PM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.8 Beta 1
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.