Saturday, October 20, 2012

Setting up for the Road

 Last post I left you wondering about what we were doing next to get us on our way. Well the above photo should give you a bit of a hint. After Camping World's outrageous quote for installing a tow bar set up, I just knew there had to be a better and less expensive way. I checked out Roadmasters web site and found a few local retailers/installers of their equipment. After a couple of call's, American Hitch, just down the street, was our answer. They ordered a base plate and installed it for just over $600.00, a bargain in comparison.

 Heres the base plate all installed, the arms that stick out can be removed for a cleaner look shouls we decide to stay somewhere for a bit.

 The next issue was to find a tow bar. After looking at new, the prices seem just crazy, so off to Craigslist to see what was out there. Low and behold there is quite a selection, seems lots of folks are selling tow bars these days. After searching for a while, one came up, that was within our price range and suited our needs. A deal was struck with the owner and $300.00 later we were the proud owners of a gently used Roadmaster Stowmaster tow bar. Nice part about buying used is, the owners usually have all the extras they don't need and include them in the deal. For us that ment the adapter plates, safety cables and light cable. One nice part about the Stowmaster, even though it it can fold up and stay on the car, it can also pop right off with the removal of a couple a pins.

Another purchase we had to make was new shoes for Dimples (our car) the tires that were on her were on there last leg. Again after a little research, it was off to Discount Tire. We were originally only going to replace 2 tires at a time, however the salesman thru in the extended roadhazard warranty for free if I went ahead and just got all 4 done at once, so all 4 it was. More cash layout, but more savings also. We are finding out, switching from a 5th Wheel to a motorhome and toad can put quite a strain on your budget, especially when both need a little TLC to get them set up and make them safe.
So that has been our fun and excitment for the past couple of weeks, we have also been spending much quality time with the kids

2 comments:

  1. Nice finds all around. Amazing the bargains that are out there on Craigslist. Plus it was nice that you had plenty of time to shop around.

    It may be a bit of an upfront cash layout but in the long run, you'll be glad you have that nice toad with the new shoes to scoot around with.

    Remember, no 4WD off road adventures in it! ;c)

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  2. Dimples -- that's a cute name for your car.

    Sounds like you're road ready.

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