My All-Inclusive Newbie Thread: Bullet Crossfire 2430BH

[wborisenok]

I got a bunch of awesome info over in my member check-in thread (https://www.keystoneforums.com/forum...ad.php?t=46575) but thought it might be a good idea to start a new thread for the remainder of my questions. I've been doing quite a bit of research on my trailer, products and necessities, but given my inexperience, I thought it best to ask my burning questions and run my initial purchases by some pros. I've bought a few things already, so let's start with those.

Backup camera system: Tadi Brothers Furrion ® Compatible Plug and Play Observation with Digital Wireless Backup Camera. I went with the 5" monitor instead of the 7"; saw the 7" in their product video and it looked big enough to be almost intrusive.
https://www.tadibrothers.com/product...-backup-camera

Hitch: Equal-i-zer 1000#/10000# 4-point Hitch w/ Sway Control. I was originally going to pull with a Fastway 8000# e2, but really don't want to make any sacrifices when it comes to towing and safety -- especially since I'm new at it -- so I upgraded a bit and feel great about the decision.
https://www.equalizerhitch.com/store...led-hitch-ball

Hoses: picked up one 50ft and two 25ft Zero G hoses. 50-footer is for water, one 25-footer is for black tank flush, and one 25-footer is for general purpose. Love that they're super light and store well.

Tools: I didn't want to pick apart my workbench and be constantly shifting my tools around, so I grabbed this Pittsburgh set at Harbor Freight for $29. Has everything I'd need - various sized Robertson bits included - and stays in a nice compact case. I also grabbed some socket adapters and added a set of 1/2" drive sockets since that's about the only thing it didn't have. Also picked up a portable air compressor, a scissor jack, and a few other random things that I'd seen some forum folks mention were useful to have on hand. I'll throw a drill, battery, and charger in there as well.

Now here are a few items I'm leaning towards:

Generator: Champion 4650-Watt/3650-Watt Remote Start Gasoline RV Ready Inverter
https://www.homedepot.com/p/4650-Wat...0993/315272388

EMS system: Progressive Industries PT30X 30 Amp EMS with Surge Protection
https://www.campingworld.com/progres...8l-102484.html

Wifi: Skyroam Solis Lite Pay-As-You-Go 4G LTE Wifi Hotspot
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XM9LV9B...ing=UTF8&psc=1

Extension: Camco 50' PowerGrip
https://www.amazon.com/Camco-Extensi...dDbGljaz10cnVl

Adapters: Camco 15A Male to 30A Female, 50A Male to 30A Female, 30A Male to 50A Female

Sewer hose: RhinoFLEX 20'
https://www.campingworld.com/rhinofl...%27-87749.html

Chocks: Fastway ONEstep
https://www.campingworld.com/fastway...B&gclsrc=aw.ds

Water pressure regulator: Renator Brass Lead-free Adjustable Water Pressure Reducer with Gauge for RV Camper, and Inlet Screened Filter
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7JZTYX...v_ov_lig_dp_it

First aid kit: Lightning X First Responder EMT EMS Trauma Bag Stocked (I recognize that this is likely overkill in the first aid kit department, but I'm approaching my certification as an EMT and figured I might as well kill two birds with one stone!)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010G2IEXG...lig_dp_it&th=1

I think that covers my potential purchases. Would love any feedback on these or other recommendations, especially if you have first-hand experience with anything I listed or found something comparable that you love. Also seeking recommendations for:

- Water filter
- TPMS
- Solar power
- Flat top griddle
- Super lightweight camping chairs (mostly for use around the firepit)
- TV: I haven't bought a TV in a number of years, but from my quick research you can get a good bang for your buck compared to 8 years ago when I bought my 55" Samsung. Deciding between putting a smaller TV in the bedroom or just doing one 32" TV in the common space. Is there any benefit to a Roku TV versus your standard smart TV with Netflix, Hulu, etc?

Finally, I've got some questions. Might as well just rip the band-aid off and ask the fun one right out of the gate:

1. Tampons...what to do with them when RVing?
2. I have a general understanding of how RV power works, but would love a bit more clarity. Can someone explain what I WILL and WON'T be able to run on shore power vs. generator vs. 30A hookup?
3. What's the best way to charge my batteries before a trip?
4. Can batteries alone operate our slide? What else?
5. How many gallons of water should I put in my fresh water tank before we head off for a trip? Not looking to add too much weight, but just enough to be able to use the bathroom or sink if we need to stop.
6. My TT (Bullet Crossfire 2430BH) comes with a solar battery charger hookup right at the front, adjacent to where the battery sits. I can't seem to find the product that I'd plug in here and wasn't sure if it was just a standard solar hookup or if there's actually such thing as a solar battery charger. In my head I imagine a solar battery charger to be on the smaller side and specific to charging batteries, not powering anything else. Does this exist?

I think that covers everything I've been thinking about for the last two weeks. If not, I'll be sure to edit and add! Thank you all for your awesome info thus far, this community is bottomless when it comes to helpful info.

Whitney

[edepp]

Originally Posted by wborisenok

I got a bunch of awesome info over in my member check-in thread (https://www.keystoneforums.com/forum...ad.php?t=46575) but thought it might be a good idea to start a new thread for the remainder of my questions. I've been doing quite a bit of research on my trailer, products and necessities, but given my inexperience, I thought it best to ask my burning questions and run my initial purchases by some pros. I've bought a few things already, so let's start with those.

Backup camera system: Tadi Brothers Furrion ® Compatible Plug and Play Observation with Digital Wireless Backup Camera. I went with the 5" monitor instead of the 7"; saw the 7" in their product video and it looked big enough to be almost intrusive.
https://www.tadibrothers.com/product...-backup-camera

Hitch: Equal-i-zer 1000#/10000# 4-point Hitch w/ Sway Control. I was originally going to pull with a Fastway 8000# e2, but really don't want to make any sacrifices when it comes to towing and safety -- especially since I'm new at it -- so I upgraded a bit and feel great about the decision.
https://www.equalizerhitch.com/store...led-hitch-ball

Hoses: picked up one 50ft and two 25ft Zero G hoses. 50-footer is for water, one 25-footer is for black tank flush, and one 25-footer is for general purpose. Love that they're super light and store well.

Tools: I didn't want to pick apart my workbench and be constantly shifting my tools around, so I grabbed this Pittsburgh set at Harbor Freight for $29. Has everything I'd need - various sized Robertson bits included - and stays in a nice compact case. I also grabbed some socket adapters and added a set of 1/2" drive sockets since that's about the only thing it didn't have. Also picked up a portable air compressor, a scissor jack, and a few other random things that I'd seen some forum folks mention were useful to have on hand. I'll throw a drill, battery, and charger in there as well.

Now here are a few items I'm leaning towards:

Generator: Champion 4650-Watt/3650-Watt Remote Start Gasoline RV Ready Inverter
https://www.homedepot.com/p/4650-Wat...0993/315272388

EMS system: Progressive Industries PT30X 30 Amp EMS with Surge Protection
https://www.campingworld.com/progres...8l-102484.html

Wifi: Skyroam Solis Lite Pay-As-You-Go 4G LTE Wifi Hotspot
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XM9LV9B...ing=UTF8&psc=1

Extension: Camco 50' PowerGrip
https://www.amazon.com/Camco-Extensi...dDbGljaz10cnVl

Adapters: Camco 15A Male to 30A Female, 50A Male to 30A Female, 30A Male to 50A Female

Sewer hose: RhinoFLEX 20'
https://www.campingworld.com/rhinofl...%27-87749.html

Chocks: Fastway ONEstep
https://www.campingworld.com/fastway...B&gclsrc=aw.ds

Water pressure regulator: Renator Brass Lead-free Adjustable Water Pressure Reducer with Gauge for RV Camper, and Inlet Screened Filter
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7JZTYX...v_ov_lig_dp_it

First aid kit: Lightning X First Responder EMT EMS Trauma Bag Stocked (I recognize that this is likely overkill in the first aid kit department, but I'm approaching my certification as an EMT and figured I might as well kill two birds with one stone!)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010G2IEXG...lig_dp_it&th=1

I think that covers my potential purchases. Would love any feedback on these or other recommendations, especially if you have first-hand experience with anything I listed or found something comparable that you love. Also seeking recommendations for:

- Water filter
- TPMS
- Solar power
- Flat top griddle
- Super lightweight camping chairs (mostly for use around the firepit)
- TV: I haven't bought a TV in a number of years, but from my quick research you can get a good bang for your buck compared to 8 years ago when I bought my 55" Samsung. Deciding between putting a smaller TV in the bedroom or just doing one 32" TV in the common space. Is there any benefit to a Roku TV versus your standard smart TV with Netflix, Hulu, etc?

Finally, I've got some questions. Might as well just rip the band-aid off and ask the fun one right out of the gate:

1. Tampons...what to do with them when RVing?
2. I have a general understanding of how RV power works, but would love a bit more clarity. Can someone explain what I WILL and WON'T be able to run on shore power vs. generator vs. 30A hookup?
3. What's the best way to charge my batteries before a trip?
4. Can batteries alone operate our slide? What else?
5. How many gallons of water should I put in my fresh water tank before we head off for a trip? Not looking to add too much weight, but just enough to be able to use the bathroom or sink if we need to stop.
6. My TT (Bullet Crossfire 2430BH) comes with a solar battery charger hookup right at the front, adjacent to where the battery sits. I can't seem to find the product that I'd plug in here and wasn't sure if it was just a standard solar hookup or if there's actually such thing as a solar battery charger. In my head I imagine a solar battery charger to be on the smaller side and specific to charging batteries, not powering anything else. Does this exist?

I think that covers everything I've been thinking about for the last two weeks. If not, I'll be sure to edit and add! Thank you all for your awesome info thus far, this community is bottomless when it comes to helpful info.

Whitney

Great list. As far as a backup camera, I would suggest this one. Way less expensive ($169) and it works great! Compatible with the 'prewired for Furrion' slot. Install was really easy. Just remember that your headlights need to be on in order for this to be on. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[Canonman]

1. Tampons...what to do with them when RVing?
I know what to use these for if you get shot or stabbed. Great for staunching serious bleeding.
2. I have a general understanding of how RV power works, but would love a bit more clarity. Can someone explain what I WILL and WON'T be able to run on shore power vs. generator vs. 30A hookup?
Shore power provides 30 amps of city power to the convertor in your trailer. All of your 110vac accessories (microwave, air conditioner etc) plus your electrical outlets are connected by circuit breakers to this 30 amp supply. The converter uses this supply to manufacture 12vdc for all of your 12volt accessories in the trailer (lights, radio, furnace fan, battery charger, fridge controls etc). A generator replaces the city power by generating 110vac but just not at he same amp level. Depending on the size of the generator you might only have 20 amps. Enough to run the microwave but not the A/C at the same time. You have to do a little arithmetic to know how many 110vac things you can have on at the same time.
3. What's the best way to charge my batteries before a trip?

Just plug your trailer into shore power and let your converter charge the batteries.
4. Can batteries alone operate our slide? What else?
Yes your batteries will operate the slide without shore power as long as they are well charged plus any of your 12vdc accessories.
5. How many gallons of water should I put in my fresh water tank before we head off for a trip? Not looking to add too much weight, but just enough to be able to use the bathroom or sink if we need to stop.
We only load about 10 to 15 gallons of fresh water for traveling. We have overnighted without hookups this way with no problems
6. My TT (Bullet Crossfire 2430BH) comes with a solar battery charger hookup right at the front, adjacent to where the battery sits. I can't seem to find the product that I'd plug in here and wasn't sure if it was just a standard solar hookup or if there's actually such thing as a solar battery charger. In my head I imagine a solar battery charger to be on the smaller side and specific to charging batteries, not powering anything else. Does this exist?
The solar plug on our Cougar fits the Zamp brand solar kit. Your connector might be different but there are adaptors to convert form one type to another. I'd recommend a portable, suitcase style 100 amp kit for ease of use. this will keep your batteries charged if you are out camping without a generator or shore power. Your batteries will provide power to all your 12vdc accessories, the solar unit simply keeps the batteries charged.
Hope this helps

[travelin texans]

Just to clarify, NOTHING absolutely NOTHING but bodily waste, water & toilet paper go down the toilet in a rv, or any other toilet for that matter. What you do to discard feminine products is up you, but not down the toilet!!!!

[sourdough]

Some thoughts;

I carry 2 12 ton bottle jacks. I think it's prudent to carry at least one.

Lego blocks or wood blocks for chocking and putting under stabilizers in soft/uneven soil.

The potential gen is almost 5k watts. Any reason for such a large one?

A 50' power cable extension is very long. I am assuming you have maybe a 30' OE cable. I've never been to a place that was set up with a 30A ped that I needed anywhere near 80' of cable. Are you planning on boondocking and placing the gen away from the trailer?

Water filter: Many different variations and types and I've seen folks use all kinds of stuff. Lots of folks use the little blue Camco cylinders that just screw onto the hose. I use a Camco but it has replaceable filters and I bought a plastic stand for it for sitting under the trailer; https://www.amazon.com/Camco-Premium...%2C197&sr=8-12

TPMS: I use a TST 507 and have for years. I'm very happy with it and it is one of the most popular TPMS systems.

Flat Top Griddle: You can't beat a Blackstone. I carry a 22" unit without the lid and stand.

TV: I prefer Samsung. They have the best sound for an RV sized unit IMO. You can also augment with a sound bar (I have a Polk Audio).

Lots of things to think about and buy.....but don't overbuy "doo dads" (not speaking of safety/essential type things) until you find that you really need/want an "abc" while you are actually camping. Have fun buying and just keep the credit card close at hand.

[wborisenok]

Originally Posted by Canonman

1. Tampons...what to do with them when RVing?
I know what to use these for if you get shot or stabbed. Great for staunching serious bleeding.
2. I have a general understanding of how RV power works, but would love a bit more clarity. Can someone explain what I WILL and WON'T be able to run on shore power vs. generator vs. 30A hookup?
Shore power provides 30 amps of city power to the convertor in your trailer. All of your 110vac accessories (microwave, air conditioner etc) plus your electrical outlets are connected by circuit breakers to this 30 amp supply. The converter uses this supply to manufacture 12vdc for all of your 12volt accessories in the trailer (lights, radio, furnace fan, battery charger, fridge controls etc). A generator replaces the city power by generating 110vac but just not at he same amp level. Depending on the size of the generator you might only have 20 amps. Enough to run the microwave but not the A/C at the same time. You have to do a little arithmetic to know how many 110vac things you can have on at the same time.
3. What's the best way to charge my batteries before a trip?

Just plug your trailer into shore power and let your converter charge the batteries.
4. Can batteries alone operate our slide? What else?
Yes your batteries will operate the slide without shore power as long as they are well charged plus any of your 12vdc accessories.
5. How many gallons of water should I put in my fresh water tank before we head off for a trip? Not looking to add too much weight, but just enough to be able to use the bathroom or sink if we need to stop.
We only load about 10 to 15 gallons of fresh water for traveling. We have overnighted without hookups this way with no problems
6. My TT (Bullet Crossfire 2430BH) comes with a solar battery charger hookup right at the front, adjacent to where the battery sits. I can't seem to find the product that I'd plug in here and wasn't sure if it was just a standard solar hookup or if there's actually such thing as a solar battery charger. In my head I imagine a solar battery charger to be on the smaller side and specific to charging batteries, not powering anything else. Does this exist?
The solar plug on our Cougar fits the Zamp brand solar kit. Your connector might be different but there are adaptors to convert form one type to another. I'd recommend a portable, suitcase style 100 amp kit for ease of use. this will keep your batteries charged if you are out camping without a generator or shore power. Your batteries will provide power to all your 12vdc accessories, the solar unit simply keeps the batteries charged.
Hope this helps

Lollllllll. I, too, can handily utilize a tampon in a GSW situation!!! Great minds.

Seriously though, thank you for taking the time to share this info with me - much appreciated!!

[wborisenok]

Originally Posted by travelin texans

Just to clarify, NOTHING absolutely NOTHING but bodily waste, water & toilet paper go down the toilet in a rv, or any other toilet for that matter. What you do to discard feminine products is up you, but not down the toilet!!!!

So I shouldn't flush the tampons? I kid. I figured as much, just thought maybe some of the gentlemen or women on here might offer up their method of disposal.

[wborisenok]

Originally Posted by sourdough

Some thoughts;

I carry 2 12 ton bottle jacks. I think it's prudent to carry at least one.

Lego blocks or wood blocks for chocking and putting under stabilizers in soft/uneven soil.

The potential gen is almost 5k watts. Any reason for such a large one?

A 50' power cable extension is very long. I am assuming you have maybe a 30' OE cable. I've never been to a place that was set up with a 30A ped that I needed anywhere near 80' of cable. Are you planning on boondocking and placing the gen away from the trailer?

Water filter: Many different variations and types and I've seen folks use all kinds of stuff. Lots of folks use the little blue Camco cylinders that just screw onto the hose. I use a Camco but it has replaceable filters and I bought a plastic stand for it for sitting under the trailer; https://www.amazon.com/Camco-Premium...%2C197&sr=8-12

TPMS: I use a TST 507 and have for years. I'm very happy with it and it is one of the most popular TPMS systems.

Flat Top Griddle: You can't beat a Blackstone. I carry a 22" unit without the lid and stand.

TV: I prefer Samsung. They have the best sound for an RV sized unit IMO. You can also augment with a sound bar (I have a Polk Audio).

Lots of things to think about and buy.....but don't overbuy "doo dads" (not speaking of safety/essential type things) until you find that you really need/want an "abc" while you are actually camping. Have fun buying and just keep the credit card close at hand.

I was looking at bottle jacks but the one I wanted was out of stock! Maybe I'll hit up the other location and swap my scissor for the bottle. I liked the idea of the bottle jack a bit more.

My thought process on the generator was that the one with less power weighed just about the same and wasn't that much less on the money front..so I figured more power for the same weight and only a couple more bucks? Why the hell not! Basically, I Tim "The Toolman" Taylor'ed it.

Regarding cable length, I absolutely struggle with envisioning how long things are. You should see me buying Christmas lights every year. Ha! We plan to "moochdock" a fair amount at our BFFs place way up in Maine. I figured more length is more flexibility in terms of where we set up shop. Not a bad idea on putting the generator far away, though. Sticking that one in my back pocket!

Going to look into that TST system -- do you recommend 6 sensors or does 4 tend to be sufficient?

That Blackstone is on Amazon for $139.99 and has RAVE reviews. Probably will hold off on that for a bit...but added it to my RV list. So hard not to buy doo-dads, especially given how effin excited I am.

Thanks for all of this info, sourdough -- you've been super helpful since the first day I joined. Appreciate you!

[markcee]

Originally Posted by wborisenok

I was looking at bottle jacks but the one I wanted was out of stock! Maybe I'll hit up the other location and swap my scissor for the bottle. I liked the idea of the bottle jack a bit more.

My thought process on the generator was that the one with less power weighed just about the same and wasn't that much less on the money front..so I figured more power for the same weight and only a couple more bucks? Why the hell not! Basically, I Tim "The Toolman" Taylor'ed it.

Regarding cable length, I absolutely struggle with envisioning how long things are. You should see me buying Christmas lights every year. Ha! We plan to "moochdock" a fair amount at our BFFs place way up in Maine. I figured more length is more flexibility in terms of where we set up shop. Not a bad idea on putting the generator far away, though. Sticking that one in my back pocket!

Going to look into that TST system -- do you recommend 6 sensors or does 4 tend to be sufficient?

That Blackstone is on Amazon for $139.99 and has RAVE reviews. Probably will hold off on that for a bit...but added it to my RV list. So hard not to buy doo-dads, especially given how effin excited I am.

Thanks for all of this info, sourdough -- you've been super helpful since the first day I joined. Appreciate you!

It's almost addictive....I saw talk of bottle jacks and just had to buy a second. I realized how helpful that would be during my first bearing repack.

By the way...potentially poor etiquette here to direct this to Sourdough in your thread, but......I've seen him mention having 12T jacks before and am curious why? I purchased a single 6T (and now a second) for my 9500 GVWR trailer. It would seem that would be more than sufficient to lift my trailer. I know you have a 5'ver, but it certainly is nowhere near 24000 lbs. What have I missed?

[wborisenok]

Originally Posted by markcee

It's almost addictive....I saw talk of bottle jacks and just had to buy a second. I realized how helpful that would be during my first bearing repack.

By the way...potentially poor etiquette here to direct this to Sourdough in your thread, but......I've seen him mention having 12T jacks before and am curious why? I purchased a single 6T (and now a second) for my 9500 GVWR trailer. It would seem that would be more than sufficient to lift my trailer. I know you have a 5'ver, but it certainly is nowhere near 24000 lbs. What have I missed?

Context never hurts!

[sourdough]

Originally Posted by markcee

It's almost addictive....I saw talk of bottle jacks and just had to buy a second. I realized how helpful that would be during my first bearing repack.

By the way...potentially poor etiquette here to direct this to Sourdough in your thread, but......I've seen him mention having 12T jacks before and am curious why? I purchased a single 6T (and now a second) for my 9500 GVWR trailer. It would seem that would be more than sufficient to lift my trailer. I know you have a 5'ver, but it certainly is nowhere near 24000 lbs. What have I missed?

Well.....because. I wanted the extra length, they sat right beside the 8 ton and the price difference was negligible, so I bought them. Do I NEED that much capacity? No. Is that what I have and reference? Yes. Would a 6T work if tall enough for a specific RV job? I would think so.

The choice of those jacks is pretty subjective and left to the individual. I would not buy a 1,2,3 or 4 ton jack "because". After that I look for the height it can give me. At 12t I have still had issues with them being too short so it's sort of a crap shoot. And.....I like to overkill, not undersize.

[travelin texans]

If you think 12 ton jacks are overkill, I carry 2 - 22 ton bottle jacks.
I found these 2 that were shorter than a 6 or 12 ton & thought that shorter heighth might be beneficial if a tire was flat, otherwise I carried plenty of blocks if needed more heighth.

[markcee]

Originally Posted by sourdough

Well.....because. I wanted the extra length, they sat right beside the 8 ton and the price difference was negligible, so I bought them. Do I NEED that much capacity? No. Is that what I have and reference? Yes. Would a 6T work if tall enough for a specific RV job? I would think so.

The choice of those jacks is pretty subjective and left to the individual. I would not buy a 1,2,3 or 4 ton jack "because". After that I look for the height it can give me. At 12t I have still had issues with them being too short so it's sort of a crap shoot. And.....I like to overkill, not undersize.

Wheeew! Was hoping it was a case of overkill and that I didn't 'underbuy'! I definitely agree with skipping the 1,2,3 or 4. I was just hoping I had enough built in cushion with the 6! Thanks, as always.

[markcee]

Originally Posted by travelin texans

If you think 12 ton jacks are overkill, I carry 2 - 22 ton bottle jacks.
I found these 2 that were shorter than a 6 or 12 ton & thought that shorter heighth might be beneficial if a tire was flat, otherwise I carried plenty of blocks if needed more heighth.

That's my strategy. Bottle jack(s) plus several lengths of 2x8 for just in case.

[flybouy]

I also carry 12T bottle jacks. HF had them on sale several years ago and they were only a couple of dollars more than the 6T so I went for the "upsized" 12T.

[sourdough]

Originally Posted by markcee

Wheeew! Was hoping it was a case of overkill and that I didn't 'underbuy'! I definitely agree with skipping the 1,2,3 or 4. I was just hoping I had enough built in cushion with the 6! Thanks, as always.

Weight wise I think you have plenty of capacity with the 6 ton - if you have the height for all the things you might want to do to that requires lifting the trailer via the axles (not axle tubes to be clear)/frame etc. I originally bought them when I had a TT and it took every bit of height they had, and wood blocks, to be able to lift the tongue of that trailer to put a new jack on when it failed the day I was supposed to depart.

[wborisenok]

Knew I forgot something. Would love suggestions for your favorite lightweight camping chairs. The lighter the better! Main use will be for around the campfire. I checked out L.L. Bean's Packlite chairs and they were super comfortable and super light, but they're pretty pricey at $69-$79 each -- especially when I'm hoping to grab a set of 4.

ALSO, we have our PDI tomorrow morning at 11AM. Our salesman told us to plan for it to take 3-4 hours which made me feel pretty confident that they intend to do a thorough job. I printed out the long PDI checklist that is floating around the forums, so I'm ready to go with that. I also called the dealer today to confirm that we'll do the walkthrough BEFORE signing on the dotted line. You don't buy a house before the home inspection, same should apply here. They confirmed they do it that way 100% of the time. They also confirmed it will be completely de-winterized so we can test all systems.

Is there any other PDI advice you guys can give me? Specific things to make sure I check? I plan to do the whole list, but if something jumps out at you please do share! In the meantime, I'll be digging through the forums for additional pointers.

It might be worth noting that we won't be driving it away tomorrow as it's located in NH and we are in MA. I've got to get my temp plates and then make a trip back up to grab it a week or so later.

[Javi]

Actually Walmart sells a folding chair with an aluminum frame and nylon webbing just like your parents used for like $19 and for the price can't be beat.

[sourdough]

Originally Posted by wborisenok

Knew I forgot something. Would love suggestions for your favorite lightweight camping chairs. The lighter the better! Main use will be for around the campfire. I checked out L.L. Bean's Packlite chairs and they were super comfortable and super light, but they're pretty pricey at $69-$79 each -- especially when I'm hoping to grab a set of 4.

ALSO, we have our PDI tomorrow morning at 11AM. Our salesman told us to plan for it to take 3-4 hours which made me feel pretty confident that they intend to do a thorough job. I printed out the long PDI checklist that is floating around the forums, so I'm ready to go with that. I also called the dealer today to confirm that we'll do the walkthrough BEFORE signing on the dotted line. You don't buy a house before the home inspection, same should apply here. They confirmed they do it that way 100% of the time. They also confirmed it will be completely de-winterized so we can test all systems.

Is there any other PDI advice you guys can give me? Specific things to make sure I check? I plan to do the whole list, but if something jumps out at you please do share! In the meantime, I'll be digging through the forums for additional pointers.

It might be worth noting that we won't be driving it away tomorrow as it's located in NH and we are in MA. I've got to get my temp plates and then make a trip back up to grab it a week or so later.

Lightweight and strong don't go hand in hand. I used to like "lightweight" camping chairs and had at least 6-8 of them we took camping with us, for us and others. Sitting at a campfire in the middle of nowhere one evening we had sat them out and my son, a weight lifter/body builder 250lb. guy, sat down in one and the frame immediately collapsed....as he dodged falling into the firepit. I don't have "lightweight" camp chairs any longer. Due to long term knee issues I also like chairs that sit high vs those that make you put your hand on the ground to get out. In the end buy 4 nice, weight bearing, tall (if that works) camp chairs and you only lose maybe a couple of pounds.

[wborisenok]

Originally Posted by sourdough

Lightweight and strong don't go hand in hand. I used to like "lightweight" camping chairs and had at least 6-8 of them we took camping with us, for us and others. Sitting at a campfire in the middle of nowhere one evening we had sat them out and my son, a weight lifter/body builder 250lb. guy, sat down in one and the frame immediately collapsed....as he dodged falling into the firepit. I don't have "lightweight" camp chairs any longer. Due to long term knee issues I also like chairs that sit high vs those that make you put your hand on the ground to get out. In the end buy 4 nice, weight bearing, tall (if that works) camp chairs and you only lose maybe a couple of pounds.

Since deciding we were going to buy a TT, I have become mildly obsessed with all things "lightweight", but your input makes perfect sense. I also probably don't need 4 camping chairs for only 2 adults, but my desire for preparedness (potential campfire company!) is making me want that set of 4 and my OCD is making me want to ensure they match.