Lichtsinn RV | Lichtsinn RV Blog

5 Reasons Why the Winnebago Revel is a Great RV!

December 11, 2018lichtsinn

The Winnebago Revel opened up a new world of RVing possibilities with its launch in October 2017. The Revel is the first of its kind, a true 4×4 RV designed for outdoor enthusiasts taking a no-nonsense approach to adventure with straightforward design and function-forward features. There are several reasons why the Winnebago Revel is a great RV, read our top five below.

True, Off-Road RV – If you are looking for a vehicle that can take you off the beaten path and away from the traditional campground the Revel is the perfect vehicle for you! The Revel is built on the 4×4 Mercedes-Benz with a 3.0L V6 turbo-charged diesel engine, with adaptive ESP. The adaptive ESP selectively brakes individual wheels, providing increased traction, enhanced directional stability, and road adhesion in rougher terrain. The optional stylized wheels and BFGoodrich T/A K02 all-terrain tires have tougher sidewalls, a long treadlife and aggressive all-terrain traction providing a solid grip for traveling off-the-beaten path.
Room to Bring all your Gear – The Revel was designed for the outdoor enthusiast who have several hobbies that require a lot of flexible storage solutions. The power lift bed with gear garage is a key storage spot in the Revel, providing 140 cu. ft. of storage space. The all-in-one gear closet and wet bath provides a spot for wet storage and includes three bamboo removable shelves, a removable clothes rod, and a bamboo shower mat.
Four-Season Capabilities – The Revel is Winnebago’s first truly four-season capable RV. The Revel includes several features that enable RVs to enjoy extended season camping. The first, is the Revel’s additional insulation. Winnebago Industries has partnered up with the same component manufacturers that General Motors, Mercedes-Benz and The Ford Motor Company has used, using Automotive Grade Foam Insulation. This insulation has an R-rating of 4.4 per sq. inch so it won’t settle as you are going off-road or off the grid. It also does not maintain odor and is built to provide the same R-value for the lifetime of the vehicle. This insulation meets automotive fire and safety standards. The insulation is engineered for noise reduction and thermal insulation and is not susceptible to moisture retention or mold. The second is the Espar diesel-fired hydronic heating system that provides continuous, unlimited hot water that will heat the coach, and the holding tanks to keep them from freezing.
RV Off-the-Grid – If you are looking for a coach that will allow you to RV off-the-grid and away from the traditional campground the Revel is the perfect coach for you! The Revel comes with 3 deep-cycle AGM group 31 batteries that are rated for 315 amp hours of power. The Revel also comes standard with 200-watts of solar and a 2 kilowatt pure sine wave inverter to safely power your electronics. One of the most unique features in the Winnebago Revel is the diesel-fired hydronic heating system that we previously mentioned. This system enables the Revel to be powered by a single fuel source – diesel fuel.
Winnebago’s Superior Experience Manufacturing RVs – Winnebago has been building RVs for over 60 years and can manufacture better-fitting, molded parts that DIYers or one-off chassis upfitters are not able to. The Revel is also supported by Winnebago’s dealer network which allows customers to qualify for long-term, low-interest financing through a RV loan. It is more difficult and often more expensive to secure financing to purchase a van from a DIYer or van body upfitter rather than an RV dealer.

Those are our five reasons why the Winnebago Revel is a great RV. Click here to see our Revel Revealed page for videos, blog posts, gear, and more specifically for the Winnebago Revel.

Lichtsinn RV, America’s closest dealer to Winnebago Industries, has been named Top North American Winnebago Dealer by Winnebago Industries for the last four consecutive years. We proudly sell New RVs manufactured by Winnebago Industries as well as Used RVs. See our Winnebago Revel inventory here.

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December Featured Part: Rhino Blaster Sewer Tank Rinser

December 4, 2018lichtsinn

The Rhino Blaster Pro Tank Rinser latches securely onto your RVs sewer outlet. The 45-degree angle allows water to blast directly into the outlet, rinsing out residue. Blaster Pro Tank Rinser features a clear elbow to see when the water runs clear. A gate valve prevents waste from flowing through the hose until done rinsing the tank, and the vacuum breaker prevents backflow into the water hose. Additional features include a four-prong bayonet swivel fitting that easily and securely attaches to the RV’s sewer outlet, and a swivel lug fitting to connect to your sewer hose.
Camco 39085 Rhino Blaster Sewer Tank Rinser with Gate Valve

Direct jet allows water stream to rinse and flush RV sewer systems
Rhino Blaster Pro Tank Rinser securely attached to RV sewer outlet via bayonet swivel fitting
Gate valve prevents backflow into sewer hose
Vacuum breaker prevents backflow into water hose
Clear 45 degree elbow allows direct flow of water into sewer system

For more information, please call the Lichtsinn RV Parts Department at 1-800-343-6255 or email parts@lichtsinn.com.

Using and Storing the Travato’s Volta Power Systems Pure3 Lithium Energy System in Extreme Conditions

December 3, 2018December 3, 2018lichtsinn

The Winnebago Travato 59KL and 59GL are equipped with the Pure3 Energy Management System featuring the most powerful, durable and easy-to-use lithium energy system in the industry. This best-in-class system is built in the U.S.A in partnership with Volta Power Systems. Pure3 is built with advanced engineering and a simple user interface so you can have confidence and peace of mind as you travel down the road. Designed for reliability, the Pure3 system makes replenishing power fast, simple, and available through multiple charging options. In mild and extreme conditions the Pure3 Energy System can meet all of your power needs without requiring power hookups or the use of a generator.

Usage in Extreme Temperatures

The lithium battery pack is in a sealed and insulated compartment. Temperatures in the compartment are regulated by the interior temperature of the motorhome. A good rule of thumb is that if you as the coach owner are comfortable inside, so is your Pure3 lithium pack

The Travato’s Volta Power Systems Pure3 Lithium Energy Pack is sealed in a battery compartment that is heated and cooled with an environmental fan:

Fan will turn on at 59°F (Heat Mode) or 110°F (Cool Mode).
Fan will turn off at 68°F (Heat Mode) or 90°F (Cool Mode).

The Pure3 pack is discharged as required by the load and should only be used around the following conditions:

High Temperature Limit: 135°F
Low Temperature Limit: -4°F.

Note that if High Temperature Limit is reached, the pack must cool to 126°F before discharge can continue.

As with all lithium batteries, charging can occur in a wide variety of climates, but as with any battery it does have its limits

High Temperature Limit: 117°F
If High Temperature Limit is reached, the pack must cool to 109°F before charging will resume.
Low Temperature Limit: 37°F
If Low Temperature Limit is reached, the pack must heat to 43°F before charging will resume.

Storage

As with any storage system, like batteries, fuel or water tank, preparations should be made to protect the life and performance of the Volta Power Systems Pure3 lithium power system when not in use.

Charge the Volta Power Systems Pure3 lithium energy storage system to greater than 50% SOC as indicated on the SOC gauge in the vehicle.

Turn OFF all vehicle electrical features powered by the Volta Power Systems Pure3 lithium system. This includes DC and AC electrical features in the vehicle as well as the inverter/charger by their control switch or display.

With the vehicle engine off and the shoreline unplugged, press the Volta Power Systems Pure3 lithium energy storage pack ON/OFF button. When you turn the button off, the green light on the button may stay on for a period of time while the system shuts down all components. This can last up to a couple minutes. The gauge may blink blue momentarily during this time. You will know the pack is properly shut down when the lights on the button and gauge are completely off. At this time power should no longer be available from the system. The Volta Power Systems Pure3 lithium energy storage pack is now deactivated and the power distribution devices are off.

A few other notices you should be aware of during storage:

Volta Power Systems recommends the Pure3 pack be turned on every 3 months to ensure the state of charge is at 50% or above

Overnight temperatures in storage can go to as low as -40°F during storage so long as the average temperature for any three month time period does not exceed the temperature range of -4°F to 113°F

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Top 10 Questions from the Webcast on the Winnebago Travato 59K, 59G, 59KL and 59GL

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Use this URL for blog posts: https://www.lichtsinn.com/rv-search?s=true&brand=travato&utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=Travato%20Blogs

To find out more about the Winnebago Travato Volta Power Systems Pure3 Lithium Energy System call us today – 1-800-343-6255, or Click on THIS LINK.

An Overview of the Maxum Chassis and Freightliner V-Ride

November 27, 2018December 3, 2018lichtsinn

The perfect diesel-pusher experience begins starts with a solid base, and Winnebago’s exclusive Maxum Chassis provides the ultimate framework for an unsurpassed ride in a Class A Diesel motorhome. Winnebago’s engineers worked closely with Freightliner Custom Chassis – the proven leader in diesel motorhome chassis – to create the Maxum Chassis: a stronger, better performing chassis. The Maxum Chassis sets the standard for diesel-pusher chassis with its lowered-rail frame providing better handling, a smoother ride, and incredible strength. In fact, the Maxum Chassis is seven times stronger than a raised-rail chassis which minimizes chassis flex and twisting. To top it off, the Maxum Chassis’ lowered-rail design increases the basement storage height allowing for pass-thru storage with room for slideout trays.

In conjunction with the exclusive Maxum Chassis, Winnebago offers Freightliner Custom Chassis’ V-Ride single axle suspension rated at 24,000-lbs. Freightliner Custom Chassis V-Ride is designed for luxury motorhome owners who want the ability to carry more gear, the freedom to equip their interiors with premium amenities, and a comfortable, confident driving experience.

Benefits of FCCC V-Ride –

Increased towing capacity
Quik-Align® allows for easy axle alignment without the use of shims
V-rod connection dissipates suspension forces, reducing stress for greater durability and longevity
U-Shaped Assembly – The transverse beam integrated with the trailing arm form a single-piece U-shaped assembly – enhancing stability at all speeds
Consistent Handling – The V-rod connection and U-shaped assembly design result in superior roll stability and more predictable handling in all road conditions, giving motorhome owners a confident driving experience
Smooth Ride – Large volumetric air springs and premium Sachs shocks deliver the smoothest ride available in a motorhome

FCCC V-Ride vs. the Competition –

FCCC has the Best Class A Ride

FCCC has a custom-built drive suspension by FCCC-engineering
Competition has an off-the-shelf truck suspension with swiveling bushing

Stability for All

FCCC suspensions are rated from 17,500 to 24,000 lbs. and designed exclusively for RV usage
Competition uses a generic truck/bus axle configuration

Driver Control

FCCC’s V-Ride is the only suspension that controls the weight of a top-heavy vehicle – giving control and confidence to the owner for the life of the coach.
Competition is still using technology that FCCC stopped using in 1999.

All motorhomes built on the Freightliner Custom Chassis – including the Maxum Chassis – qualify for Winnebago’s Carefree Diesel Living warranty. This program extends the Winnebago warranty on our diesel pusher lineup — all built on Freightliner chassis — to an industry-leading 3 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

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Tips for Extending the Life of Your RV Tires

November 23, 2018November 21, 2018lichtsinn

In a recent webcast, Ron Lichtsinn covered a few options to extend the life of your RV tires including MULTI SEAL, Nitrogen, and Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems. You can watch a video of the webcast here.

MULTI SEAL – Extend tire life and protect the people and equipment that are riding on them. Originally designed specifically for the US and UK military, since 1981 MULTI SEAL has manufactured high performance tire sealants, scientifically formulated to virtually eliminate air loss due to punctures and slow leaks.

Using proprietary formulas and ingredients, MULTI SEAL products are blended in the United States specifically for industrial segments. MULTI SEAL is the world leader for superior tire sealant technology.

The name of the game is prevention. MULTI SEAL’s 21st century formula works inside your tires filling holes and punctures instantly. Fewer leaks mean fewer flats and longer lasting tires. The result is less money spent on new tires, retreads and damaged wheels — and eliminating down-time during vacation. Prevention also means keeping all tires properly inflated to avoid lower performance and decreased tire life. MULTI SEAL tire sealants combined with a regular tire maintenance program can result in a dramatic economic savings.

NITROGEN – There are many reasons to make the switch from regular air to nitrogen. Tires filled with nitrogen maintain consistent tire pressure which saves drivers money by increasing gas mileage and extending the life of their tires. Using nitrogen in your tires, is a great way to save money and help the environment at the same time. In fact, many environmental groups are encouraging the use of nitrogen in tires in order to improve gas mileage and reduce the number of rubber tires that need to be replaced through wear and tear on the road.

Proper inflation is the key to improving gas mileage and nitrogen doesn’t lose pressure as temperatures rise and fall. Motorists can improve gas mileage by 4-10 percent simply by keeping their tires properly inflated. Nitrogen molecules are bigger than oxygen molecules, so nitrogen seeps out more slowly from tires than air; nitrogen resists heat buildup better than air, which contains moisture; and nitrogen reduces oxidation, which can damage the tire from the inside out, proponents say. Nitrogen is an inert gas, so there are no safety or environmental issues.

TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM – A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is a device that monitors tire pressure and alerts you if a tire issue occurs. Your tires are an important part of your RV, you can not only ruin a trip with an unexpected tire blowout, you will also be looking at spending a great deal of money.

A TPMS provides alerts for tire issues. The main cause for a blow-out is under or over-inflated tires. A tire pressure monitoring system will allow it’s user to be warned of such conditions, helping them to avoid a blow-out. TPMS that provide temperature warnings can also provide an early warning of issues such as locked brakes.

TireMinder is the #1 Tire Pressure Monitoring System in North America. TireMinder is a great TPMS solution for your RV, MotorHome, 5^TH Wheel, Motor Coach, Trailer, and more. With its easy to program interface and fantastic customer support, it’s no wonder why Motor Home & Trailer Life magazines reader’s voted TireMinder #1 for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems 3 years in a row.

You can purchase the TireMinder Tire Pressure Monitoring System from the Lichtsinn RV parts department by calling 1-800-343-6255, emailing parts@lichtsinn.com or visiting https://www.lichtsinn.com/rv-parts.

Winnebago Introduces Horizon 42Q Floorplan

November 22, 2018November 21, 2018lichtsinn

Confident and bold, the Winnebago Horizon brings a fresh look to the diesel pusher category, with the performance to back it up. Each of the Horizon floorplans feature a refreshingly clean design, highlighted by LED tube lighting and luxurious Villa furnishings. Both include a spacious master bedroom with an available walk-around recline/incline king bed, abundant interior storage, full galley with residential-style refrigerator, and the versatile Glide & Dine dining table and chairs that let you configure your dining area to suit your needs. Every Horizon is built on our turbo-diesel-powered Maxum Chassis, so you can count on the performance, ride, handling, and storage to match the Horizon’s elegant good looks. Drive, arrive, and thrive in style: the new Horizon is calling.

The Winnebago Horizon 42Q features a mid-coach guest bath, dedicated lounge area, and private master suite make the 42Q ideal for entertaining — or getting away from it all.

WATCH THE FACEBOOK LIVE VIDEO TOURING THE ALL NEW HORIZON 42Q & FORZA 38F HERE.

Drive your Horizon worry-free with Winnebago’s 3-year/100,000-mile Carefree Diesel Living warranty.

See Lichtsinn RV’s Winnebago Horizon Inventory here.

Winegard ConnecT 2.0

November 21, 2018lichtsinn

The Winegard ConnecT 2.0 creates an RV hotspot and maximizes speed, reliability and range from both WiFi and 4G LTE networks, ensuring customers can stay connected to their smartphones, laptops, media players and other devices.

The ConnecT 2.0 models are simple and quick to setup with step-by-step onscreen instruction to connect to all your devices in just seconds. Security is a top priority, and customers only need to setup their secure network once for peace of mind.

The products offer Advanced WiFi protected access, a separate guest network access option, and double firewall protection. The Connect 2.0 family of products comes in a sleek, low-profile dome.

The ConnecT 2.0 is a convenient aftermarket accessory, available from Lichtsinn RV’s Parts Department.

To order a Winegard ConnecT 2.0 please contact us at 1-800-343-6255 or email parts@lichtsinn.com

Blue Ox Family of Products

November 21, 2018lichtsinn

We offer complete installations of dinghy setups, including Blue Ox products. Setup takes about a full day and we offer package pricing on complete setups. Leave it to the experts on this task to keep you secure down the road!

Dinghy towing or towing your vehicle behind your motorcoach with all four wheels on the ground is by far the safest and most convenient way to bring your passenger car, truck or SUV. Although no manufacturer has yet to engineer a plug-and-play setup directly from the factory, it’s never been simpler to equip both dinghy and motorhome for road usage. Lichtsinn RV’s parts department sells Blue Ox’s family of products for sale including the Ascent and the Avail tow bars.

WATCH OUR VIDEO ON THE BLUE OX FAMILY OF PRODUCTS HERE.

If you are interested in learning more about Blue Ox’s family of products and if they will work with your RV please contact the Lichtsinn RV Parts Department by calling 800-343-6255 or email parts@lichtsinn.com.

You can learn even more about towing with your RV by clicking here.

Winnebago Travato 59KL and 59GL Ground Clearance and Climate Control… The Story

November 21, 2018lichtsinn

Based on the powerful, fuel efficient ProMaster chassis, the Travato has been at the forefront of the van life revolution since its launch. Estimated to achieve 18 to 22 mpg highway, at only 21 feet long the Travato offers all of the comforts of home in a nimble, efficient van. The Pure 3 Volta Power Systems automotive grade 48V energy pack provides 8,700 watt hours, nearly double that of Roadtrek and more than Coachmen. The energy pack is watertight, durable with the steel housing being the safest on the market, and batteries are climate controlled.

One question we often get is if the ground clearance has changed in the Travato 59KL and 59GL with the lithium system. The answer is no, the ground clearance remains the same at 7.25-inches to 7.5-inches in the 59KL and 59GL as the 59K and 59G.

WATCH OUR VIDEO ON THE TRAVATO 59KL AND 59GL GROUND CLEARANCE AND CLIMATE CONTROL HERE.

The main difference between the Travato 59K and 59G and their lithium-powered counterparts is the climate controlled box that houses the Pure3 Energy Management System automotive grade 48V energy pack from Volta Power Systems. The climate controlled box is mounted between the two rear wheels and is protected from road debris in a watertight and durable steel housing that is the safest on the market. The energy pack’s steel housing is also heated from the Truma Combi Eco Plus heating system.

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Top Questions from the 2019 Winnebago Revel Webcast

November 19, 2018lichtsinn

The true 4×4 RV opens up a world of possibilities! Now with enhanced safety features from Mercedes Benz including blind spot monitoring, collision prevention assist, lane keeping assist and much more! Designed specifically for active outdoor enthusiasts, the all new Winnebago Revel takes a no nonsense approach to adventure with a straightforward design and function-driven features. Taking full advantage of the proven 4×4 Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis, the Revel’s 3.0 litre turbo diesel puts 325 lbs ft of torque through an on-demand 4WD system, complete with high and low range and hill descent mode for added off road capability.

Lichtsinn RV’s November webcast covered the 2019 Winnebago Revel and we received several great questions throughout the webcast. Below we highlighted a few of our top questions.

WATCH THE LIVE INTERACTIVE WEBCAST ON THE 2019 WINNEBAGO REVEL HERE.

Who are the competitors of the Revel and why is the Revel a better choice?

Before the Revel was launched, consumers relied on third-party van outfitters like Sportsmobile to build campervans like the Revel. With third-party van outfitters, consumers would have to purchase the van body from a Mercedes dealer then they would have to take it to a third-party van outfitter to do a custom van conversion. These custom conversions took a significant amount of time to complete typically up to a year. Consumers also ran into difficulties purchasing the customized van because there were not options to finance the vehicle like there are with the Winnebago Revel. Consumers were having to take a loan out to purchase the van and then wait and take out another loan for the upfit. The Winnebago Revel solved that problem because it is a recreational vehicle so consumers are able to take advantage of RV financing.

Is the Winnebago Revel a four season RV?

It is absolutely four-season capable due to the four wheel drive, espar heating, and insulation.

4WD and All-Terrain Tires: the Winnebago Revel takes a no-nonsense approach to adventure with a straightforward design and function-driven features. Taking full advantage of the proven 4×4 Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis, the Revel’s 3.0 litre turbo diesel puts 325 lbs ft of torque through an on-demand 4WD system, complete with high and low range and hill descent mode for added off road capability. One option is the performance wheels and BF Goodrich® T/A® KO2 all-terrain tire upgrade option. The BF Goodrich® T/A® KO2 all-terrain tires have –

20% Tougher Sidewalls: Featuring Proven CoreGard Technology to take on the toughest road hazards with confidence.
Longer Treadlife to extend your adventure.
Aggressive All-Terrain Traction to confidently get you where you want to go.

Espar Heating: The diesel-fired heating system provides continuous, unlimited hot water that will heat the coach, and the holding tanks to keep them from freezing.

Insulation: Winnebago Industries has partnered up with the same component manufacturers that General Motors, Mercedes Benz and The Ford Motor Company has used, using Automotive Grade Foam Insulation. This insulation has an R-rating of 4.4 per sq inch so it won’t settle as you are going off-road or off the grid. It also does not maintain odor and is built to provide the same R-value for the lifetime of the vehicle. This insulation meets automotive fire and safety standards. The insulation is engineered for noise reduction and thermal insulation and is not susceptible to moisture retention or mold.

Has the Diesel-Fired Hydronic Heating System always been on the Winnebago Revel?

Yes, it has been on the Revel since the introduction. You can learn more about the Espar diesel-fired hydronic heating system here.

What kind of wheels do you get if you don’t get the upgraded wheels, and what does Lichtsinn RV see guests ordering?

Lichtsinn RV stocks all our Revels with the upgraded performance wheels and BF Goodrich® T/A® KO2 all-terrain tire. You can learn more about the upgraded wheels and tires here. If you don’t get the upgraded wheels you will get 16″ painted steel wheels with stock tires.

Can Lichtsinn RV add Alumniness racks?

Yes, Lichtsinn RV partnered with Aluminess to install the specialized racks. You can see them here.

Can you add an Easy-Start to the optional Coleman-Mach Air Conditioner in the Winnebago Revel?

An Easy-Start is an aftermarket accessory that works with the Coleman-Mach air conditioning system that allows you to use a lower wattage, lighter portable generator to power the air conditioner. However, with the easy-start when you fire it up it is a maximum draw and takes more power to start up than a larger generator like the Honda 2,000 generator which is what we see on most RVs.

What are the off-the-grid capabilities with the batteries in the Revel?

The Revel comes with three deep cycle AGM absorbed glass mat maintenance free RV batteries, with a 315 AMP hour bank. When our guests are camping off-the-grid they aren’t using the batteries as much and are relying on the diesel-fired hydronic heating system which is extremely efficient.

What are the differences between the 2019 Winnebago Revel and the 2018 Winnebago Revel?

In 2019, Winnebago added a new safety enhancement package that includes: