March 2010
Volume 35 - Number 8


Contents




Contents
Tech Report--Motorhome Owners Need to Respond to New Warning Lights Related to Emissions Control News--MCD Innovations And American RVer to Team Up Tech Report--Mountain driving: Let your engine do the work
Industry News
  • Photo MCD Innovations And American RVer to Team Up
    MCD Innovations recently announced that they have arranged with Jim and Peggy Grich of American RVer to represent them at national RV rallies and shows.
    News Posted Mar 06, 2010
  • Photo RVIA’s Coon to Address European RV Groups
    RVIA President Richard Coon will provide presentations focusing on the United States RV industry and RVIA in meetings with two European RV organizations this spring.
    News Posted Mar 05, 2010
  • Photo New Go RVing Ads Air During Popular Vancouver Olympic Games
    Go RVing’s 105-spot Winter Olympics buy, which targeted a huge family viewing audience, rolled out Saturday, February 13 on NBC’s live coverage of men’s ski jumping and continued through the Games’ conclusion on February 28. The Vancouver Winter Games were the second-most watched ever, with a total of 190 million Americans tuning in to coverage on the networks of NBC Universal, which include NBC, CNBC, USA, MSNBC and Universal Sports.
    News Posted Mar 05, 2010
  • Photo Wholesale RV Shipments Up 116% in January
    The results of RVIA’s January 2010 survey of manufacturers reports that 15,800 new RVs were shipped from manufacturers to dealers in January, more than twice the total of January 2009 shipments.
    News Posted Mar 05, 2010
Financials
  • Photo Camping World Closes on Financing With SunTrust Bank
    Camping World, America's largest direct marketer and specialty retailer of RV and outdoor camping accessories, announced today that it has secured a new credit facility with SunTrust Bank.
    Financials Posted Mar 04, 2010
  • Navistar Stockholders Elect Three Incumbents to the Board of Directors at Annual Meeting
    Navistar International Corporation (NYSE: NAV - News) announced that stockholders at its annual meeting today elected three incumbent directors to the board of directors, ratified the selection of KPMG as the company’s independent registered public accounting firm and approved amendments to the company’s performance incentive plan.
    Financials Posted Feb 18, 2010
  • Photo Thor Announces Preliminary Sales for Quarter, Six Months
    Thor Industries (NYSE: THO) announced today preliminary sales for the quarter and six months ended January 31, 2010. Sales in the quarter were $429 million, almost double the $227 million from last year. RV sales were $335 million, up 148% from $135 million last year. Bus sales were $94 million, up 2% versus $92 million last year.
    Financials Posted Feb 04, 2010
  • RV and Outdoor Recreation Leader, Affinity, Announces Strategic Financing
    Affinity, the nation’s largest provider of outdoor recreation clubs, services, media and events, announced today that is has entered into a non-binding letter of intent with a private equity firm to fortify its capital structure. The transaction will provide $70 million in new funding and award the firm a future economic interest in Affinity.
    Financials Posted Dec 18, 2009
People
  • Photo Jayco Announces Management Changes
    Jayco, Inc. announced changes in its senior management team. David Turner has been named director of corporate services and chief product engineer and Mark Fortney has been appointed general manager of the company's JET transport division.
    People Posted Feb 23, 2010
  • Photo Terry Dolan Named Generac® Power Systems’ Senior Vice President of Sales
    Generac Power Systems, Inc., Waukesha, Wis., a leading manufacturer of backup power generation equipment, recently announced Terry Dolan has joined as Senior Vice President of Sales.
    People Posted Feb 19, 2010
  • Photo Greg Dewalt Named Instructor for RV Technician Distance Learning Program
    Northampton Community College (NCC) and the PA RV and Camping Association (PRVCA) are pleased to announce that Greg Dewalt will join Northampton as an instructor for the Distance Learning RV Technician Training Program effective February 8, 2010.
    People Posted Feb 06, 2010
  • Photo Aqua-Hot Names Paul A. Harter President
    An RV hydronic heating provider for over 20 years, Aqua-Hot Heating Systems has appointed Paul A. Harter to president.
    People Posted Jan 30, 2010
Features
  • RV Industry Business Indicators
    RV shipments in January 2010 totaled 15,800 units, more than double the number shipped in January, 2009.
    Feature Posted Mar 05, 2010
  • Photo LoJack Releases Auto Theft Recovery Report
    LoJack Corporation (Nasdaq: LOJN) released its first Auto Theft Recovery Report, highlighting results from LoJack's 2009 recoveries.
    Feature Posted Feb 19, 2010
  • RVs Make Appearances in Popular Television Shows
    RVs have been featured in a number of popular network and cable television series over the past weeks, with reality television casts hitting the road to find adventure in rented RVs and RVing chefs cooking up tasty treats.
    Feature Posted Feb 09, 2010
  • Photo 2010 RV Business Indicators
    RV Shipments and Sales Data
    2009 shipments. RV shipments in November, 2009 were more than double the total shipped in the same month the previous year.

    Feature Posted Jan 21, 2010
Lifestyle
  • Photo Start Your Federal Tax Return Earlier to Cash in on 2009 Changes
    About 71 million American households (47 percent) will owe no federal income tax for 2009 thanks, in part, to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), according to estimates by the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center. The other 53 percent of us will have to pay.
    Lifestyle Posted Mar 05, 2010
  • Photo Avoid the 'Senior Sickness Snowball Effect' with a strong immune system
    An emerging health trend where a relatively simple illness leads to a number of physical and lifestyle changes is impacting seniors around the country, say immune system researchers from Embria Health Sciences, co-founders of the Nourish America Senior Health Project.
    Lifestyle Posted Feb 17, 2010
  • Photo Buying from bulk bins saves cents, makes sense
    When you hear the term "bulk," do you envision cases and 5 gallon containers, and say to yourself, "I just don't need that much of anything?" You probably don't.
    Lifestyle Posted Feb 10, 2010
  • Photo TV or camera shopping? What you should know
    There are many new and exciting advances in the world of consumer electronics, and when it comes to purchasing your newest gadget, wading through endless options can be daunting. Ask anyone who has gone on vacation with a sub-par camera or sat through a grainy or fuzzy movie or sporting event on their TV - there is nothing more frustrating that dealing with outdated or confusing technology.
    Lifestyle Posted Feb 04, 2010
Travel
  • Photo U.S. Travel Association and Travel Channel Promote the Benefits of Travel through PSAs
    The U.S. Travel Association and the Travel Channel have partnered to produce a series of Public Service Announcements (PSAs) that make the case to an economically-strapped public for why travel is important.
    Travel Posted Feb 09, 2010
  • Photo Bookmark your favorite road
    Planes and trains may have their place in our society, but for the dedicated traveler there's still nothing like getting in your RV and taking a trip along America's highways.
    Travel Posted Jan 26, 2010
  • Photo Outdoor Oregon
    Oregon's rugged and diverse geography means there are rivers to paddle, cliffs to climb, surf to ride and trails to tackle. If adrenaline isn't flooding your veins, but you still long for the outdoors, we've got plenty of secluded spots to linger in the shade, float down a cool lazy river, or spot exotic birds. Whatever your passion, Oregon's natural and scenic variety - coast, mountains, rivers, high desert, plains, forests and valleys - lends equally to exhilarating outdoor adventure or tranquil exploration. Expert guides can help you rappel faster, paddle harder, or spot that elusive woodpecker. Let us know what you're interested in; we'll get you connected.
    Travel Posted Jan 06, 2010
  • Photo Great Texas Birding Classic
    Currently, 633 species of birds have been documented in Texas. Over 400 species can be found along the Texas coast during spring migration. All of these birds are present due to the highly diverse habitats along the Texas coast.
    Travel Posted Dec 01, 2009
Washington Report
  • Photo Submit Site Nominations For Get Outdoors Day 2010
    The American Recreation Coalition is currently accepting site nominations for official sites to host Get Outdoors Day 2010 (GO Day) activities. On Saturday, June 12 GO Day official sites across the nation will introduce American families to healthy, outdoor fun.
    Washington Report Posted Mar 05, 2010
  • Photo National Wildlife Federation Recommends New Year's Resolution to Get Kids Outside
    Many will once again resolve to get organized or lose ten pounds in the new year, but National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is recommending a resolution with profound impacts because it recaptures an essential part of childhood, outdoor play.
    Washington Report Posted Jan 05, 2010
  • Forest Service Proposes Changes in Camping Discounts for Seniors, Disabled
    The U.S. Forest Service has proposed changes in the discounts on campsite charges for holders of Senior and Access Passes and Golden Age and Golden Access Passports, available to seniors (62 and over) and those with disabilities, after lengthy discussions with key recreation organizations and with concessioners and permittees operating Forest Service campgrounds.
    Washington Report Posted Dec 05, 2009
  • ARC Participates in White House Forum on Health Benefits of Clean Energy
    The American Recreation Coalition participated in the recent White House briefing on the public health benefits of a clean-energy economy co-convened by Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of Health and Human Services, and Lisa Jackson, Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
    Washington Report Posted Dec 05, 2009
RV Reviews
  • Photo Gulf Stream Sees High Retail Demand For New Visa
    Gulf Stream Coach Inc., recently introduced the all new Visa Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailer, and dealers are reporting tremendous retail activity. Dealers report record web site traffic and customers crowding to see the Visa at retail shows.
    RV Reviews Posted Mar 05, 2010
  • Photo 2011 Diplomat Motorhome by Monaco -- Sneak Preview
    This magnificent coach has all the luxuries you deserve. Plush Ultraleather™ captain’s chairs. A spectacular new 37-inch flatscreen LCD television (38PDQ, 42SKQ). Polished Corian® surfaces. Ceramic tile flooring with beautiful new accents. Even a bigger, better AC system for bonus summer cooling.
    RV Reviews Posted Feb 18, 2010
  • Photo Roadtrek Introduces the all new SS-Ideal on the Short Sprinter Van
    Last week at the National RV Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky, Roadtrek Motorhomes Inc. introduced the SS-Ideal - an exciting new layout on the smallest Sprinter van – the most fuel efficient chassis in the RV industry.
    RV Reviews Posted Dec 09, 2009
  • Photo Airstream Expands of Model Line-up
    Jackson Center, Ohio – Airstream announced today that it is expanding its line of iconic travel trailers and touring coaches in an effort to welcome new consumers to the Airstream lifestyle.
    RV Reviews Posted Dec 02, 2009
New Products
  • Photo Pump Technology Enables Polisher to Run Constantly
    Keeping water and impurities out of a diesel engine's fuel system is important, but it doesn't have to consume the entire battery.
    New Products Posted Mar 02, 2010
  • Photo “The Thermostat” Offers Easy Single-Zone Climate Management
    Dometic Corporation introduces The Thermostat – a digital thermostat for smart climate management.
    New Products Posted Mar 02, 2010
  • Photo Yamaha Announces All-New EF2400iSHC Generator
    Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., introduces a High Current version of the top selling EF2400iS – the new EF2400iSHC. Compact, lightweight and quiet while still powerful, reliable and with low emission, the Yamaha EF2400iSHC generator is perfect for camping, tailgating, powering workshop equipment or at home as back-up during a power outage.
    New Products Posted Jan 23, 2010
  • Photo Original Model Still Top Vent Cover for Fresh Air
    RVers know to open roof vents aboard their rig to keep temperatures down and musty air out. However, they may not always remember to close them, which may lead to a soaked interior if it rains.
    New Products Posted Jan 16, 2010
OEM Products
  • Photo Cummins Receives EPA 2010 Certification for Heavy-Duty and Midrange Engines
    Cummins Inc. received certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its 2010 Heavy-Duty big-bore ISX15 and MidRange ISB6.7, ISC8.3 and ISL9 engines. Certification of these engines means that the Cummins 2010 engine lineup for on-highway applications meets the near zero emissions levels required for all engines manufactured in 2010.
    OEM Products Posted Jan 09, 2010
  • Photo Gentex Rear Camera Display Mirror for the Daihatsu Mira Cocoa Receives Praise From Japanese Automotive Journalists
    Gentex Corporation (NASDAQ: GNTX), a supplier of automatic-dimming rearview mirrors and camera-based active-safety systems to the worldwide automotive industry, announced that its interior auto-dimming rearview mirror with Rear Camera Display (RCD) for the Daihatsu Mira Cocoa was recognized by the Automotive Researchers' & Journalists' Conference of Japan (RJC) as one of the top-six new technologies in the 2010 RJC Technology of the Year awards program.
    OEM Products Posted Dec 23, 2009
  • Photo Dometic® Heats Things Up with New Cooktops, Ovens, Sinks
    Dometic introduces new cooktops, ovens and sinks to its line-up of RV appliances. Each features high-polish, premium stainless steel and trend-setting designs.
    OEM Products Posted Dec 01, 2009
  • Photo All-Rite Now Custom Manufacturing Exit Windows
    All-Rite, manufacturer of repair parts to the RV and Specialty markets, announced the launch of their new line of custom manufactured Exit Windows. The windows will be built to each customer's rough hole measurements and shipped in two (2) days, the quickest lead time in the industry.
    OEM Products Posted Jul 01, 2009
Tech Report
RV Industry Trade
  • Comments by RVIA's Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Gary LaBella
    What a difference a year makes! This year – our industry’s Centennial year – is off to a strong start with much promising news indicating that the RV market is indeed on the road to recovery.
    RV Industry Trade Posted Mar 04, 2010
  • Photo LaVanture Products Releases New Gas Springs Catalog
    LaVanture Products Company has announced a new marketing relationship with a world leader in the production of high quality Gas Springs from Turkey.
    RV Industry Trade Posted Feb 17, 2010
  • Photo Protective Announces a Service Agreement Program for Rental RVs
    Protective enhanced its XtraRide RV service agreement program to provide mechanical breakdown coverage for an RV dealer’s rental fleet.
    RV Industry Trade Posted Feb 07, 2010
  • Photo Next Trouble Shooter Clinic Set For March 8-12 in Elkhart
    RVIA's Education Department has scheduled its next Trouble Shooter Clinic for March 8-12 at Ivy Tech Community College in Elkhart, IN. Trouble Shooter Clinics (TSCs) offer RV service technicians the opportunity to enhance performance and profitability by improving their hands-on technical knowledge. RVIA is encouraging its members to promote these important training events to their dealer networks.
    RV Industry Trade Posted Jan 23, 2010
New Books
  • Photo Troubleshooting & Repairing RV Refrigerator Made Easy
    In an attempt to make consumers’ lives easier, authors Roger D. and Onna Lee Ford, owners of Ford RV Refrigeration, collaborate to bring a comprehensive 241 page manual. Published through Xlibris, Average Joe’s RV Refrigerator: Troubleshooting & Repair Guide is an easy-to-follow guide in dealing with basic problems of any RV refrigerator.
    New Books Posted Feb 05, 2010
Wholesale RV Shipments
Departments & Info


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