Glossary

The power sources on which RV refrigerators operate; 120 AC is 120-volt alternating current (same as in houses); 12 DC is 12-volt direct current (same as in motor vehicles); PROPANE-gas. Some RV refrigerators can operate on two of the three sources, others on all three. ↑

A ball mount with adjustable increments allows the ball to be raised, lowered and tilted. This is needed when using equalizer bars and to help compensate for the tow vehicles weight when it is lowered onto the ball. ↑

A line of zero compass declination, along which the compass needle "points" to both true and magnetic north ↑

An instrument that measures elevation by using barometric (air) pressure ↑

Short for ampere, the electric current unit of measure. RV sites with electric hookup will specify the maximum amps supported, which generally come in units of 20, 30, or 50 amps. The RV power connector must match the various plugs of the site amp rating. ↑

An anode rod, when used in a water heater, attracts corrosion causing products in the water. These products attack the anode rod instead of the metal tank itself. The anode rod should be inspected yearly and changed when it is reduced to about 1/4 of its original size. The rods are used in steel water heater tanks - an aluminum tank has an inner layer of anode metal to accomplish the same thing. Anode rods should not be installed in aluminum tanks! ↑

A waterproof jacket with a hood and drawstrings at the waist and cuffs ↑

A joint between two objects which allows movement. In the case of RV's, an articulation point is where two vehicles are coupled together by a ball or fifth wheel hitch. When a truck is pulling a travel trailer or fifth wheel, a single articulation point exists. If a boat is towed behind the trailer then two articulation points exist. ↑

A roof-like structure made of canvas or other artificial materials which extends from the RV body to provide shade. Awnings are generally placed over entrances. Some extend and stow manually while others are operated electrically. ↑

The ratio between the pinion and ring gears in the differential that multiply the torque provided by the engine. It is the number of drive line revolutions required to turn the axle one time. As an example, with a 4.10:1 axle the drive line turns 4.1 times for each full axle revolution. The higher the number, the more torque and thus more towing power. However, the higher the number also means less speed. ↑

A camera mounted on the back of a motorhome to aid in backing up. Also can be used while driving to keep an eye on a towed vehicle. ↑

The part of the hitch system that supports the hitch ball and connects it to the trailer coupler. ↑

To build a wall around a fire (or where fire is to be) out of rocks or stones, or to build the fire next to a rock or dirt wall such that it blocks the wind ↑

The storage compartment of RV's under the main living area. Basements are generally found on motor homes and fifth wheel trailers. ↑

The source of DC power for use inside an RV or for powering the DC requirements of the RV's engine and chassis in the case of motorhomes. Batteries are designed for two different applications, starting and deep cycle. The starting battery is designed to give a sudden burst of power to turn over an engine. The deep cycle battery is designed for steady low to medium amperage discharge with occasional bursts of high amperage requirements (as for running a microwave oven via an inverter. ↑

The direction of travel from your current position to a landmark or destination, expressed in degrees from 1 to 360. Bearings are measured in the number of degrees east or west of a north-south line. ↑

A permanent object that is either natural or man-made with a known elevation that can be used as a reference point when navigating ↑

Holding tank connected to the toilet, designed to hold sewage until it can be dumped into a septic system. ↑

Waste water from the toilet system. ↑

Also known as a honey pot. Refers to a portable waste holding tank that has wheels on one end. These tanks often are manufactured out of blue plastic, hence the nickname. ↑

Also known as dry camping. Camping without electrical and water hookups. ↑

A device mounted under the dash of a towing vehicle to control the braking system of the trailer. Most Brake Actuators are based on a time delay application; the longer the brakes are applied tighter the trailer brakes react. ↑

A device mounted under the dash of a towing vehicle to control the braking system of the trailer. Most Brake Actuators a based on a time delay, the more time the tow vehicle brakes are applied the "harder" the trailer brakes are applied. ↑

An electrical switch on trailers designed to engage the breaks in case the trailer breaks away from the tow vehicle. The switch is connected by a cable to the tow vehicle. Breakaway is detected when the switch cable is pulled out during vehicle separation. ↑

A measurement of heat that is the quantity required to raise the temperature of one pound of water 1 degree F. RV air-conditioners and furnaces are BTU-rated. ↑

A ball (with or without a bracket) attached to the bumper. ↑

An RV area containing bunk beds instead of regular beds. ↑

A passenger bus converted to an RV. ↑

Off-trail travel through brush where no cleared path exists and hikers have to force their way through the branches ↑

The part of a type C mini-motorhome that overlaps the top of the vehicle's cab, usually containing a sleeping or storage unit. ↑

A placement of food and/or supplies along or near a trail or route of travel for future use ↑

A pile of stones used as a trial marker ↑

The number of degrees each wheel is off of vertical. Looking from the front, tops of wheels farther apart than bottoms means "positive camber". As the load pushes the front end down, or the springs get weak, camber would go from positive to none to negative (bottoms of wheels farther apart than tops). ↑

Another term for an RV, especially smaller RV's that are towed behind or carried on top of light trucks. Truckers generally refer to all RV's as campers in their CB conversations. ↑

A group of RVers traveling together with their various RVs. Large caravans often space RVs five minutes or so apart with CB radios used for communication between the various RVers. The end vehicle is sometimes called the "tailgunner" and is the occupants watch out for a caravan member that may have had road trouble in order to assist however possible. ↑

The four main points of direction on a compass- North/360 degrees; East/90 degrees; South/180 degrees; and West/270 degrees ↑

The actual weight of all items added to the Curb Weight of the vehicle or trailer. This includes personal cargo, optional equipment, and Tongue or King Pin Weight. ↑

Toilet with a small holding tank that can be removed from outside the vehicle in order to empty it. ↑

The steering wheels' desire to return to center after you turn a corner. ↑

Citizens Band radio is a general use, short distance, two-way radio primarily used by truckers. CB's are also helpful to RV drivers to call for help in an emergency and listen for driving conditions. Many CB's on the market today also have weather channels with alerting features. ↑

A device that is used to set either lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes alight. It is usually a steel cylinder about 8" (20 cm) in diameter and about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) tall. The chimney starter works by placing newspaper underneath the grate and lighting it on fire. This fire rises through the holes in the grate and sets the charcoal alight. It is commonly used in situations where the use of charcoal lighter fluid, a toxic petroleum derivative, is inappropriate or banned. It is also used when extra charcoals are required while the grill is being used, such as when slowly cooking something for a few hours. ↑

The frame of a vehicle or motor home including the engine, transmission, drive train, axles, and wheels. When referring to a van or truck, the chassis also includes the cab. ↑

Battery in motor homes and tow trucks for operating the engine and vehicle components. Gas engine vehicles generally have one chassis battery and diesels two. Also referred to as the starting battery. ↑

The steep walled bowl carved by glacial action at the head of a side canyon ↑

A motor home built on a stripped truck chassis where the driving compartment is an integral part of the RV interior. Class A motor homes look like busses. ↑

A motor home created from a mini van. Most models have raised roofs, but otherwise the living space is constrained by the dimensions of the van. ↑

A motor home built on a cut-away van or truck chassis, including the cab. It differs from the class A motor home in that the class C uses the cab designed for the chassis. ↑

A vehicle with enclosed passenger accommodations. In the broadest sense of the term, coach can be applied to most recreational vehicles. When used by itself, it usually refers to a motor home, most likely a Class A. ↑

The front of a motorized RV where the pilot (driver) and co-pilot (navigator) sit. ↑

License issued by states to drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMV). Some states require special licensing or endorsements for large RV's, but a commercial driver's license (CDL) is rarely required for non-commercial RV's. ↑

A result of warm moisture laden air contacting the cold window glass. Keeping a roof vent open helps to reduce the humidity levels. Added roof vent covers help to prevent cold air from dropping down through the vent while still allowing moist air to escape. Using the roof vent fan when showering or the stove vent fan when cooking also helps prevent excess moisture buildup. ↑

The loss of body heat through direct contact with a cold surface, damp clothing, cold water, etc. ↑

Loss of body heat due to wind or other conditions that circulate cold air in exchange for the warm air your body has heated. The body will continuously attempt to warm the skin that is cooled by the air, causing you to lose your body heat and become hypothermic. ↑

A device that converts 120 volt A/C (alternating current) to 12 volt DC (direct current). The RV devices mostly run on 12 volt DC power that is supplied by the battery, which allows the RV to function independently. When "shore power" (an electrical supply) is available, the converter changes the voltage from 120 to 12 volt to supply the appliances and to recharge the battery. ↑

A road, trail or bridge formed by logs laid transversely, side by side, to facilitate crossing swampy areas ↑

A steep, relatively narrow groove in a rock wall. Typically, couloirs are wider than "cracks" and smaller than "gullies", and are important as routes up the mountainside. ↑

The part of a trailer A-frame that attaches to the hitch ball. ↑

Traction devices used to improve mobility on snow and ice. There are three main attachment systems for footwear: step-in, hybrid, and strap bindings. The first two require boots with welts, the last adapt to any type. ↑

A piece of furniture arranged across the RV from side to side rather than front to rear. ↑

The actual weight of a vehicle or trailer, including all standard equipment, full fuel tanks, full fresh water tanks, full propane bottles, and all other equipment fluids, but before taking on any persons or personal cargo. ↑

The side of the RV that would be at the curb when parked. ↑

The difference in degrees between magnetic north (the direction the magnetic needle on a compass points) and true or geographic north (the direction maps are printed towards). ↑

A boot sole featuring deep ridges and grooves for maximum traction ↑

Also known as "knock" or "ping," this is a condition in which some of the unburned air/fuel in the combustion chamber explodes at the wrong time in the ignition cycle, increasing mechanical and thermal stress on the engine. ↑

Term for front engine diesel motorhome. ↑

A motorhome with a rear diesel engine. ↑

Booth-like dining area. Table usually drops to convert unit into a bed at night. ↑

A vehicle towed behind a motorhome, sometimes with two wheels on a special trailer called a tow dolly, but often with all four wheels on the ground. ↑

The actual weight of a vehicle or trailer containing standard equipment without fuel, fluids, cargo, passengers, or optional equipment. ↑

This term refers to the method of igniting the main burner on a propane fired appliance. The burner is lit with an electric spark and the flame is monitored by an electronic circuit board. This ignition system is used in refrigerators, furnaces and water heaters. There is now a version of stove tops that light the burners with a DSI ignition. ↑

RV equipped with lights, appliances which operate on 12-volt battery power when self-contained, and with a converter, on 110 AC current when in campgrounds or with an onboard generator. ↑

A truck having two wheels on each side of the rear axle for a total of four wheels. ↑

Air conditioning supplied through a ducting system in the ceiling. This supplies cooling air at various vents located throughout the RV. ↑

Warm air from the furnace supplied to various locations in the RV through a ducting system located in the floor. (similar to house heating systems) ↑

Facilities for emptying gray and black water from the RV holding tanks. ↑

The best thing to cook on if using a wood fire. When the flames have died down and the part-burnt wood glows orange or white, it is most efficient heat to cook on. ↑

A hitch that utilizes spring bars that are placed under tension to distribute a portion of the trailer's hitch weight to the tow vehicle's front axle and the trailer's axles. This hitch is also known as a weight distributing hitch.

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The steep face frequently presented by the abrupt termination of stratified rocks ↑

A device installed on the engine which causes deceleration by restricting the exhaust gases. Exhaust brakes are used to supplement the service brakes of a vehicle and to increase stopping power. Especially useful to slow heavy loads down steep grades. ↑

Gauge indicating engine exhaust gas temperature as measured by a probe inserted into the gas flow. Temperature is generally measured directly after the exhaust manifold or after the turbo. Useful in preventing engine overheating. ↑

A small zippered nylon pack that's attached to a waist-belt ↑

A trailer and hitch configuration connected to the tow truck directly above the rear axle by way of a special fifth wheel hitch. This causes several feet of the connected trailer to hang over the tow truck, placing about 15 to 25% of the trailer's weight on the rear axle of the truck. Commercial trucks and trailers use this hitch configuration. Also commonly spelled as 5th wheel. ↑

Another name for a fifth wheel RV. ↑

A rapid flooding of geomorphic low-lying areas—washes, rivers, dry lakes and basins. Flash floods are distinguished from a regular flood by a timescale less than six hours. ↑

Family Motor Coach Association ↑

Abbreviation for Fair Market Value. ↑

Small, light-weight trailer that folds or collapses into a low profile, suitable for towing behind light vehicles such as cars, SUV's, and mini pickup trucks. ↑

Tank for holding fresh water for drinking, cooking, and bathing while not connected to a city water supply. ↑

The ability to connect to all three of the campground's facilities; electric, water and sewer. ↑

The term used for people who live in their RV full time, or at least the vast majority of their time ↑

Garments worn over the shoe and lower pants leg, and used primarily as personal protective equipment. Gaiters strap over the hiking boot and around the person's leg to provide protection from branches and thorns and to prevent mud, snow, etc. from entering the top of the boot. ↑

The kitchen in an RV. ↑

Slang for rear gasoline engine mounted chassis on motorhome. ↑

The manufacturer's rating for the maximum allowable weight that an axle is designed to carry. GAWR applies to tow vehicle, trailer, fifth-wheel and motorhome axles. ↑

The manufacturers maximum load weight, in pounds, that can be placed on the axle. If an axle has a 3500-lb. GAWR and the RV has two axles (tandem axles), then the RV would have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 7000 lbs. ↑

The manufacturers maximum load weight, in pounds, allowed for the trailer and tow vehicle. This rating includes the weight of the trailer and tow vehicle plus fuel, water, propane, supplies and passengers. ↑

An engine powered device fuelled by gasoline or diesel fuel, and sometimes propane, for generating 120-volt AC power. ↑

Abbreviation for generator set. ↑

A trailer and hitch configuration connected to the tow truck directly above the rear axle by way of a standard ball hitch in the truck bed and a vertical, slender arm on front of the trailer. Gooseneck hitching is common on horse and utility trailers, but rarely found on RV's. ↑

A device that attaches to the fifth wheel trailer's king pin and extends down about two feet. It couples with a ball hitch mounted in the bed of a truck, enabling the fifth wheel to be towed like a gooseneck trailer. ↑

The degree of inclination of a road. A grade of 6% or higher is considered steep. ↑

Holding tank connected to the sinks and shower, designed to hold waste water until it can be dumped into a septic system. ↑

Disposal water from sinks, shower. In some units, this is held in a tank separate from black water; is also dumped in tanks at campgrounds. ↑

Same as Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) when referring to a trailer. GTW is measured by placing the fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of the trailer should be supported on the scale. ↑

The manufacturers maximum load weight, in pounds, allowed for the vehicle. This rating includes the weight of the vehicle plus fuel, water, propane, supplies and passengers. ↑

Truck rating originally conceived to indicate cargo carrying capacity of a half ton (1,000 lbs). Today, tonnage rating is no longer an accurate indication of cargo carrying capacity—it is more of a relational indication among trucks in different categories. Common one ton pickup truck models are the Chevrolet 1500, Dodge 1500, Ford F-150, and GMC 1500. ↑

Truck body installed on a chassis in place of a bed, designed to tow or haul various loads. Most hauler backs look like a typical car wrecker without the lift. Hauler backs intended for RV towing have a flat surface and a hitch installed above the rear axle. Common options added to hauler backs are storage compartments and tool boxes. ↑

A device that transfers heat from one source to another. For example, there is a heat exchanger in your furnace - the propane flame and combustion products are contained inside the heat exchanger that is sealed from the inside area. Inside air is blown over the surface of the exchanger, where it is warmed and the blown through the ducting system for room heating. The combustion gases are vented to the outside air. ↑

A heat strip is an electric heating element located in the air conditioning system with the warm air distributed by the air conditioner fan and ducting system. They are typically 1500 watt elements (about the same wattage as an electric hair dryer) and have limited function. Basically they "take the chill off." ↑

Commercial truck designed for heavy duty. Heavy trucks are suitable for towing the heaviest of trailers, though they are rarely used for RV towing. A few examples: semi trucks, Chevrolet Kodiak C8500, Ford F-750, GMC TopKick C8500. ↑

A fifth-wheel trailer with a higher-than-normal front to allow more than 6 feet of standing room inside the raised area. ↑

An outdoor activity which consistes of walking in natural environments, often on hiking trails. If the hike is to be overnight, then it would be called "backpacking", returning to a point of origin is "day hiking" and hiking to some other point is "through hiking". ↑

The main support device on a backpack. Large padded belt that buckles around the waist and is fully adjustable. Makes carrying the pack much more comfortable. ↑

The fastening unit that joins a movable vehicle to the vehicle that pulls it. ↑

The amount of a trailer's weight that rests on the tow vehicle's hitch. For travel trailers this weight should be 10% to 15% of the total weight of the trailer. For fifth wheels this weight should be 15% to 20% of the total weight of the trailer. ↑

There are three different holding tanks on most RVs; fresh water tank, gray water tank and black water tank. The fresh water tank holds fresh water that can be stored for later use. The gray water tank holds the waste water from the sinks and showers. The black water tank holds the waste from the toilet. ↑

Euphemism for the sewage pumping truck. Honey wagons are used to empty RV holding tanks in places where full hookups and dump stations are not available. ↑

The ability of connecting to a campground's facilities. The major types of hookups are electrical, water and sewer. If all three of these hookups are available, it is termed full hookup. Hookups may also include telephone and cable TV in some campgrounds ↑

One or more batteries in a recreational vehicle for operating the 12 volt lights, appliances, and systems. House batteries can be 12 volt units tied in parallel or pairs of 6 volt batteries tied in series (to double the voltage). The term house battery is of more significance in motor homes because they contain one or more other batteries for the operation of the engine, referred to as the chassis or starting batteries. ↑

Abbreviation for "horse power". ↑

Term used for a type of dirt skirt accessory some RVers use on the back of their motorhome to aid in the protection from debris thrown from their rear wheels to the vehiclesdirectly behind them or being towed behind them. This dirt skirt is usually the length of the rear bumper and resembles a 'short' version of a Hawaiian 'hula-skirt', hence the term. ↑

A potentially lethal physical state caused by lowering of the body's core temperature, due to exposure to cold wet weather. ↑

An inverter is a device that changes 12 volt battery power to 120 volt AC power. It is used when "boon docking" (camping without hookups) to power certain 120 VAC only devices like a microwave oven. The amount of available power depends on the storage capacity of the batteries and the wattage rating of the inverter. ↑

A fee collection box used at campgrounds that do not have full time attendants. Upon entrance to the campground, you deposit your nightly fee(s) in an envelope with your name and site number and drop this in the collection box. At sometime during the day, a park ranger will make rounds of the cmapgrounds and collect the fees. You will often see these in National Park and National Forest campgrounds. ↑

A queen-sized bed with walking space on both sides. ↑

Abbreviation for Internet Service Provider. ↑

90% angle obtained from turning/backing fifth wheel or travel trailer with tow vehicle. Jackknifing a short bed truck towing a fifth wheel without the use of a slider hitch or extended fifth wheel pin box can result in damage to the truck cab or breaking out the back window of the truck cab from the truck and fifth wheel "colliding". ↑

See Exhaust Brake. ↑

Small, thin, dead wood (1" around or less) used to start a fire. ↑

The pin by which a fifth wheel trailer attaches to the truck. It slides into the fifth wheel hitch and locks in place. ↑

The actual weight pressing down on the fifth wheel hitch by the trailer. The recommended amount of King Pin Weight is 15%-25% of the GTW,also called Pin Weight. ↑

Kampgrounds of America, a franchise chain of RV parks in North America that offers camping facilities to vacationers and overnighters. ↑

A sandwich of structural frame members, wall paneling, insulation and exterior covering, adhesive-bonded under pressure and/or heat to form the RV's walls, floor and/or roof. ↑

See Leveling Jack. ↑

Wearing several thin layers of clothes, one over the other. Layering is the most efficient clothing system for cold weather. ↑

A three-sided shelter with an over-hanging roof and open side ↑

Positioning the RV in camp so it will be level, using ramps (also called levelers) placed under the wheels, built-in scissors jacks, or power leveling jacks. ↑

A jack lowered from the underside of trailers and motor homes for the purpose of leveling the vehicle. A leveling jack is designed to bear a significant portion of the RV's weight, even lifting it off the ground on certain models. ↑

Personal truck designed for light duty, typically rated at one ton and below. Light trucks are suitable for towing small to medium trailers. A few examples: Chevrolet Silverado 3500, Ford F-250, Dodge RAM 1500. ↑

A differential that is designed with a mechanism that limits the speed and torque differences between its two outputs, ensuring that torque is distributed to both drive wheels, even when one is on a slippery surface. ↑

Items to equip a motorhome for daily living, which may be rented at nominal cost from rental firm, rather than brought from home. Include bed linens, pillows and blankets, bath towels, pots and pans, kitchen utensils, cutlery. ↑

Liquefied Petroleum Gas, commonly written as "LP Gas". Two examples of LP Gas are propane and butane. LP Gas is heavier than air in gas form and about half the weight of water in liquid form. LP gas is used to fuel appliances in the RV, such as the stove, oven, water heater and refrigerator. Propane tanks are usually rated as pounds or gallons. ↑

The geographical region towards which all magnetic needles point. This point is approximately 1,300 miles south of true north. ↑

A compact mountain group consisting of several summits. ↑

Commercial truck designed for medium duty, typically rated above one ton. Medium duty trucks are built with heavier frames, brakes, and transmission compared to light trucks. A few examples: Chevrolet Kodiak C4500, Ford F-450/F-550, International 4200. ↑

Abbreviation for "motorhome". ↑

Fingerless gloves used by mountaineers for technical climbing. Millar-mitts are great for fishing, canoeing and general hiking. ↑

A seasonal outbreak of localized severe thunderstorms that deposit large quantities fo rain often resulting in flash floods, especially in canyon country where there are narrow slot canyons and little vegetation to help absorb the sudden rush of water. ↑

A motorhome that is built on a bus-type chassis. ↑

Term for motorhome on "bus-type" chassis. ↑

A motor vehicle built on a truck or bus chassis and designed to serve as self-contained living quarters for recreational travel. ↑

Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price ↑

National Automobile Dealers Association ↑

The maximum amount of persons, personal cargo, optional equipment, and Tongue or King Pin weight that can be added to an RV. The formula for NCC is GVWR - UVW. NCC differs slightly from the more widely used "payload" term, by including full fresh water and propane tank weights. ↑

Water not suitable for human consumption. ↑

Original Equipment Manufacturer ↑

Truck rating originally conceived to indicate cargo carrying capacity of one ton (2,000 lbs). Today, tonnage rating is no longer an accurate indication of cargo carrying capacity—it is more of a relational indication among trucks in different categories. Common one ton pickup truck models are the Chevrolet 3500, Dodge 3500, Ford F-350, and GMC 3500. ↑

Using a map and compass in the field to determine your route of travel ↑

A compass that has a built-in protractor which allows you to determine directions from a map without orienting the map to north. This is the most practical compass style for outdoor use. ↑

A travel trailer that requires park facilities to function. It lacks holding tanks and dual-voltage appliances, requiring to be plugged into water, sewage, and electrical facilities. A park model is more of a small mobile home than a recreational vehicle, in appearance and function. ↑

The term used for people who use their RV more than usual (more than just a few weekend trips a year), but who still use it less than full time. ↑

Carpet or woven mat for use on ground outside of RV. Used whether or not a concrete patio pad is available where camping. ↑

The maximum allowable weight that can be placed in or on a vehicle, including cargo, passengers, fluids and fifth-wheel or conventional hitch loads. ↑

A pilot is a small standby flame that is used to light the main burner of a propane fired appliance when the thermostat calls for heat. Pilots can be used in furnaces, water heaters, refrigerators, ovens and stove tops. ↑

A relatively elevated area of comparatively flat land which is commonly limited on at least one side by an abrubt descent to lower land. ↑

The term for a room in an RV that pops out for additional living space. ↑

Another name for a folding camping trailer. ↑

A term used to define the up and down motion in an RV while traveling ↑

LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas, used in RVs for heating, cooking and refrigeration. Also called bottle gas, for manner in which it is sold and stored. This is the proper term in the RV industry when referring to "LP Gas." ↑

A camping site that allows you to pull through while setting up and leaving the area. A site where you do not have to back in or out. ↑

A slot in an RV park with an entrance and an exit, designed to pull the RV in one end and out the other, without having to back up.



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Slang for front engine motorhome. Term most often used to refer to front mounted diesel engine motorhomes. ↑

A drinking water system that removes contaminates and eliminates viruses with a combination of specialized filters ↑

Motor home with rear mounted engine. Most pushers are equipped with diesel engines, but some gas engine models are also available. ↑

A knot which can be removed by a simple pull of the tail. The most common quick-release knot is the "bow" used for tying your shoes. ↑

A set of gears found in the rear axle of vehicles, designed to distribute drive shaft power to the two wheels. It applies power to both wheels while allowing each to spin at different rates during cornering. ↑

The portion of a hitch that permits a hitch bar or shank to be inserted. The receiver may be either 11/2-, 15/8- or 2-inch square; the smallest being termed a mini-hitch. ↑

Slang for "refrigerator". Refrigerators are often found in either a "two way" or "three way" operating mode. Two way: has a gas mode and an AC mode. Three way: has a gas mode, AC mode, and 12v DC mode. The coolant used in RV refrigeration is ammonia. The two most common manufacturers of RV refrigerators are Norcold and Dometic. ↑

what many RVers call their units. ↑

Term used to describe a lack of ability to maintain the motorhome in a straight, forward travel without constant back and forth motion of the steering wheel. ↑

Air conditioning unit mounted on roof of RV, to cool the RV when it is parked. When moving, most RVs are cooled by separate air conditioning units which are components of the engine, or they may be cooled by a roof top if a proper size generator is installed. ↑

Short for Recreation Vehicle, a generic term for all pleasure vehicles which contain living accommodations. Multiple units are RVs and persons using them are RVers. ↑

Abbreviation for the RV Consumer Group organization. ↑

Abbreviation for Recreational Vehicle Dealer's Association. ↑

Abbreviation for Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. ↑

A set of chains that are attached to the trailer A-frame and must be connected to the tow vehicle while towing. Safety chains are intended to keep the trailer attached to the tow vehicle in the event of hitch failure, preventing the trailer from complete separation. They should be installed using an X-pattern, so the coupler is held off the road in the event of a separation. ↑

RV which needs no external electrical, drain or water hookup. Thus, it can park overnight anywhere. Of course, self-contained units can also hook up to facilities when at campgrounds. ↑

Also called a hitch bar or stinger, the shank is a removable portion of the hitch system that carries the ball or adjustable ball mount, and slides into the receiver. ↑

The external electrical cord that connects the vehicle to a campground electrical hookup. ↑

A boating term adopted by the RV community to mean an electrical power hookup supplied to the RV by a fixed, external source (not by a portable generator). A full hookup RV site has shore power. ↑

A compartment added to an RV to increase interior space. It slides into the body during travel and slides out when parked. ↑

Referring to a sliding hitch used on short bed trucks for enabling them to tow fifth wheels, allowing them sufficient clearance to jack-knife the trailer. ↑

Term for someone in a northern climate that heads "south" in winter months. ↑

Telescoping side panels on an RV that can be raised or lowered, usually constructed of canvas or vinyl and mesh netting. ↑

Device containing an array of solar cells which convert sunlight to electricity. Typically mounted on the roof of RV's and used for charging the batteries. ↑

The traditional rain hat of sailors and commercial fishermen. Developed centuries ago, it is still the best of all foul weather hats. ↑

Component parts of a weight-distributing hitch system, the spring bars are installed and tensioned in such a manner as to distribute a portion of the trailer's hitch weight to the front axle of the tow vehicle and to the axles of the trailer. ↑

A jack inserted under or lowered from trailers and motor homes for the purpose of stabilizing the vehicle. A stabilizing jack is not designed to bear a significant portion of the RV's weight, only a small amount to reduce movement during occupancy. Stabilizing jacks are generally found toward the back of trailers, under the king pin of fifth wheels, and under some slides. ↑

A structure which provides a passage through or over a fence or boundary via steps, ladders, or narrow gaps. Stiles are often built in rural areas or along footpaths to allow access to an adjacent field or area separated by a fence, wall or hedge. ↑

Slang for the sewer hose, constructed from a spiral wire covered with vinyl. One end attaches to the RV piping and the other into the local sewer dump facilities. ↑

A body of water with a current, confined within a bed and stream banks. Depending on its locale or certain characteristics, a stream may be referred to as a branch, brook, beck, burn, creek, "crick", gill (occasionally ghyll), kill, lick, rill, river, syke, bayou, rivulet, streamage, wash, run or runnel. ↑

The part of the vehicle on the street side when parked. ↑

Fishtailing action of the trailer caused by external forces that set the trailer's mass into a lateral (side-to-side) motion. The trailer's wheels serve as the axis or pivot point. Also known as "yaw." ↑

Devices designed to damp the swaying action of a trailer, either through a friction system or a "cam action" system that slows and absorbs the pivotal articulating action between tow vehicle and trailer. ↑

A zigzagging trail up the side of a steep ridge, hill or mountain, which allows for a more gradual and less strenuous ascent. ↑

Motorhomes built on chassis with short wheelbases and long overhangs behind the rear axle are susceptible to tail swing when turning sharply. As the motorhome moves in reverse or turns a corner, the extreme rear of the coach can move horizontally and strike objects nearby (typically road signs and walls). Drivers need to be aware of the amount of tail swing in order to prevent accidents. ↑

The end RV or vehicle in a caravan. ↑

Compacting from front to back and/or top to bottom to make the living unit smaller for towing and storage. ↑

A thermocouple is a device that monitors the pilot flame of a pilot model propane appliance. If the pilot flame is extinguished the thermocouple causes the gas valve to shut off the flow of gas to both the pilot flame and the main burner. ↑

Truck rating originally conceived to indicate cargo carrying capacity of three quarter tons (1,500 lbs). Today, tonnage rating is no longer an accurate indication of cargo carrying capacity—it is more of a relational indication among trucks in different categories. Common three quarter ton pickup truck models are the Chevrolet 2500, Dodge 2500, Ford F-250, and GMC 2500. ↑

Small twigs, wood shavings, dry leaves or grass, dry needles, bark or dryer lint (ultra-fine dry materials). Should begin to burn immediately with a lighted match. ↑

The term used for an area or room in an RV that tips out for additional living space. The Tip-Out was generally used in older RVs. Newer RVs mainly use a slide-out. ↑

A vehicle towed behind the RV. That which was "towed". ↑

Toe is the measure of whether the front of the wheels (looking down from the top) are closer (toe-in) or farther (toe-out) than the back of the wheels. ↑

A jack lowered from the frame of a travel trailer, directly behind the tongue, for the purpose of leveling the trailer. A tongue jack is designed to bear a significant portion of the trailer's weight, called the Tongue Weight (10% - 15% recommended). ↑

Tongue Weight (also called Tongue Load) is the actual weight pressing down on the hitch ball by the trailer. The recommended amount of Tongue Weight is 10%-15% of the GTW. ↑

A type of map characterized by large-scale detail and quantitative representation of relief, usually using contour lines. Traditional definitions require a topographic map to show both natural and man-made features. ↑

A device used for connecting a dinghy vehicle to the motorhome when it's towed with all four wheels on the ground. ↑

The manufacturer's rating of the maximum weight limit that can safely be towed by a particular vehicle. Tow ratings are related to overall trailer weight, not trailer size, in most cases. However, some tow ratings impose limits as to frontal area of the trailer and overall length. The vehicle manufacturer according to several criteria, including engine size, transmission, axle ratio, brakes, chassis, cooling systems and other special equipment, determines tow ratings. ↑

A car towed by an RV to be used as transportation when the RV is parked in a campground. ↑

The term toy hauler is applied to both fifth wheels and travel trailers, and it describes an RV designed to carry toys—small cars, dune buggies, four wheelers, motorcycles, etc. Distinguishing features of a toy hauler is the large door in the back which opens down to create a ramp, dedicated garage area or fold-away furniture in the main living compartment, and often a third axle to support the heavy toys. ↑

Brakes that are built into the trailer axle systems and are activated either by electric impulse or by a surge mechanism. The overwhelming majority of RVs utilize electric trailer brakes that are actuated when the tow vehicle's brakes are operated, or when a brake controller is manually activated. Surge brakes utilize a mechanism that is positioned at the coupler, that detects when the tow vehicle is slowing or stopping, and activates the trailer brakes via a hydraulic system (typically used on boats). ↑

The point at which a trail begins. In most parks and popular areas there is a parking lot or turn out for easy access. ↑

A heat exchanger similar to a small radiator through which automatic transmission fluid passes and is cooled by airflow. ↑

Also referred to as "conventional trailers," these types of rigs have an A-frame and coupler and are attached to a ball mount on the tow vehicle. Travel trailers are available with one, two or three axles. Depending upon tow ratings, conventional trailers can be towed by trucks, cars or sport-utility vehicles. ↑

To make one's way arduously. A very difficult or lengthy hike or perhaps over unmarked or totally undeveloped terrain. ↑

Term for three vehicles attached together. Usually a tow vehicle pulling a fifth wheel and the fifth wheel pulling a boat. ↑

Living quarters designed to slide into the bed of a truck. The camper is fastened to the truck frame during transport and slides out onto its own legs at the camp site. ↑

Wiring harness which connects the trailer to the tow vehicle during transport. The umbilical cord supplies the trailer with DC power for charging the batteries and operating DC equipment. It also operates the trailer brakes and signal lights. ↑

The RV's under-floor surface, which is protected by a weatherproofed material. ↑

A program that is directed by the government to provide consumers with information about three characteristics of the tire: tread wear, traction and temperature. Following government prescribed test procedures, tire manufacturers perform their own evaluations for these characteristics. Each manufacturer then labels the tire, according to grade. ↑

A breaking down of material due to the sun's harsh ultravilet rays ↑

The weight of a vehicle as manufactured at the factory. It includes full engine and generator fuel tanks and fluids, if applicable. It does not include cargo, water, propane, or dealer-installed accessories. It may or may not include factory installed options. Be aware that some manufacturers weigh each unit to determine UVW, while others provide only the average or estimated weight for each model. ↑

A leader, either hired or chosen, who guides a caravan of recreational vehicles on a trip. The wagonmaster usually makes advance reservations for campgrounds, shows, cruises, sightseeing and group meals. ↑

Slang term used by RVers to describe a Wal-Mart. ↑

The gray water tank holds the waste water from the sinks and showers. The black water tank holds the waste from the toilet. ↑

Device installed on water hose attached to city water to limit the water pressure entering the RV. Most regulators limit water pressure to 40 psi. ↑

People who own their RV's for weekend and vacation use. ↑

Also known as a "dead-weight" hitch, this category includes any system that accepts the entire hitch weight of the trailer. In the strictest sense, even a weight-distributing hitch can act as a load-carrying hitch if the spring bars are not installed and placed under tension. ↑

Weight-Distributing Hitch - Also known as an "equalizing" hitch, this category includes hitch systems that utilize spring bars that can be placed under tension to distribute a portion of the trailer's hitch weight to the tow vehicle's front axle and the trailer's axles. ↑

-Propane weighs 4.25 pounds per gallon

-Water weighs 8.3 pounds per gallon

-Gasoline weighs 6.3 pounds per gallon

-Diesel fuel weighs 6.6 pounds per gallon ↑

The weight of the vehicle with the fuel, freshwater and propane tanks full. ↑

Distance between the center of the front and rear wheels of a vehicle, usually expressed in inches. ↑

An RV having an external body width greater than 96 inches (8 feet). The most common wide-body widths are 100" and 102". ↑

The process of introducing non-toxic antifreeze into the water lines of an RV for winter storage to prevent freezing and line breaks. ↑

Technology that enables computers equipped with wireless network cards (also called WiFi) to connect to the Internet without requiring wired connections such as phone lines or cables. This service generally requires an additional fee and a sing-up process. ↑

A person living in an RV and working. Many spell it as "workamper" after the web site and service by that name. ↑

Fishtailing action of the trailer caused by external forces that set the trailer's mass into a lateral (side-to-side) motion. The trailer's wheels serve as the axis or pivot point. Also known as "sway." ↑