First mini trip

jkjenn

I took my first mini trip with W@goneer this weekend and it was all positive. I dint actually camp (dog wouldn't tolerate) but set it up a couple of times.

I learned I can move the T@b around on flat ground on pavement. I would be afraid to do so on a slope as I think it would be too likely that it would become too much for me. I can set up and break down in under 10 minutes but backing out took a lot longer, sadly. I have watched the videos and did improve some on practicing, I just need a little more practice. It is all a matter of getting used to how hard to crank the wheels and how slowly to ease out of turning them.

I have a driver side detachable mirror on my Jeep and I might put a passenger side mirror on, too. That mirror was a huge help.

Wanderoo

Jenn -- I have trouble backing the T@B, too.  It reacts very quickly when I turn the steering wheel, and I've found that small incremental movements are more effective + getting out of the vehicle frequently and assessing my progress.  It's a learning experience.  I purchased some of those fold-up, triangle road reflectors, and I used them last weekend to mark a spot on the road where I should start my turn.  They're also useful to mark obstacles so I don't back into them.       

:-B

jkjenn

Sounds like a great suggestion! Thanks!

scuba

Find an empty parking lot and practice backing into different spots!

jkjenn

scuba said:

Find an empty parking lot and practice backing into different spots!

I'm really want to but not sure I will have time before I leave for my trip. The practice I got in this weekend was helpful.

TABaker

I found the best practice was mid week, preferably out of season, at a state park.  Find a loop with very few people there.  You get to practice with sites that are uphill, downhill, slanted different ways, posts, trees, etc., in the way.   I usually determine where I want the T@B's driver's side wheel to land and place a pinecone or stick or something there.  Doing that keeps me from getting in and out of the Jeep a thousand times.

Michigan_Mike

Great tip!  

belvagillespie

Yes what a great tip.
Every site you go to will be different.
Please be careful moving tab by yourself. I can move her on flat pavement but she is too heavy to stop by yourself if she starts rolling downhill. Keep your chocks in place when on a sloped site. I bet some of you remember the story of our friend Fox and her T@Da. We camped next to her at BRR and she told us t he real story. She is one lucky tabber. Hers rolled into the lake. She was able to jump out before it hit the water.

RZRBUG

The pine cone/stick trick; such a simple but great idea.  I'll be using that one.